AIThis post was created with the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI).

Among these dishwashers with third racks, the Samsung Bespoke DW80B7070US/AA is my best overall pick for shoppers who want flexible loading and added wash features. The Sharp SDW6736MS stands out for its quiet 47 dB rating and Power Wash sprayer, while the Sharp 18-inch model suits kitchens where a standard-width dishwasher will not fit. The main tradeoffs are capacity versus compact fit, and whether added wash or smart features matter more than a straightforward layout. Rack adjustability and the space available for tall items also affect how useful a third rack will be day to day. Continue reading for the full breakdown and a guide to choosing the right model for your kitchen.

Before you orderOffer from Amazon

Get audio and creator gear delivered free with Prime

  • Fast, free delivery on millions of items
  • Prime Video, Amazon Music and more included
  • Member-only deals all year
Start your free Prime trial Free trial for eligible customers · Cancel anytime
As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.
6
compared
3
brands
3
dryings
7
max wash cycles
Which dishwashers with third rack should you buy?
★ Top Pick
Kenmore 24-Inch Built-In Dishw
Best for Larger Loads
Capacity of up to 15 place settings exceeds the listed capacity of the 12-place-setting Sharp 24-inch models.
See on Amazon →
Small or medium households that want a stainless-finish, three-rack dishwasher with an adjustable upper rack and simple cycle selection.
Sharp SDW6506JS 24-Inch Stainl
Three racks include a dedicated third rack for silverware and utensils.
View on Amazon →
Households that often wash a mix of heavily soiled cookware and smaller loads, and want rack-specific wash options alongside a third rack.
Sharp 24-Inch Stainless Steel
Power Wash sprayer is intended for heavily soiled dishes.
View on Amazon →
Apartment dwellers, couples, or small households with an 18-inch built-in opening who still want a third rack and separate rack wash zones.
Sharp 18-Inch Built-In Dishwas
18-inch width fits kitchens where a standard 24-inch dishwasher may not.
View on Amazon →
Buyers seeking a quiet, full-size dishwasher with an adjustable third rack, targeted wash zones, and multiple cycle options.
Sharp SDW6736MS 24-inch Stainl
Adjustable third rack gives more flexibility for arranging utensils and flatware.
View on Amazon →
Wash cycles — compared
Sharp SDW6506JS 24-Inch Stainl5
Sharp 24-Inch Stainless Steel 5
Sharp 18-Inch Built-In Dishwas6
Samsung Bespoke Smart Dishwash7
Pros & cons at a glance
Kenmore 24-Inch Built-In Dishw
✓ Capacity of up to 15 place settings exceeds the listed capacity of the 12-place-setting Sharp 24-inch models.
✗ At 49 dBA, it is louder on paper than the 47 dB Sharp SDW6736MS and Sharp 24-Inch Stainless Steel Built-In Dishwasher.
Sharp SDW6506JS 24-Inch Stainl
✓ Three racks include a dedicated third rack for silverware and utensils.
✗ Capacity is limited to 12 place settings, compared with 15 for the Kenmore.
Sharp 24-Inch Stainless Steel
✓ Power Wash sprayer is intended for heavily soiled dishes.
✗ 12-place-setting capacity is smaller than the Kenmore’s listed 15-place-setting capacity.
Sharp 18-Inch Built-In Dishwas
✓ 18-inch width fits kitchens where a standard 24-inch dishwasher may not.
✗ Capacity is 8 place settings, substantially below the 12- and 15-place-setting full-size options.
Sharp SDW6736MS 24-inch Stainl
✓ Adjustable third rack gives more flexibility for arranging utensils and flatware.
✗ Built-in installation does not suit kitchens needing a portable dishwasher.
Samsung Bespoke Smart Dishwash
✓ Third rack adds room for utensils and small items, freeing space in the lower racks.
✗ Smart connectivity and advanced wash features may be unnecessary for buyers seeking a simpler machine.

Complete the kit

Cable Zip Ties,400 Pack Black Assorted Sizes 12+8+6+4 Inc...
Cable Zip Ties,400 Pack Black Assorted Sizes 12+8+6+4 Inc…
Add to your setup →
Nettbe 60 PCS 6 Inch Adjustable Cable Ties, Reusable Cord...
Nettbe 60 PCS 6 Inch Adjustable Cable Ties, Reusable Cord…
Add to your setup →
187PCS Stainless Steel Cable Tie Gun Kit, 11.8 Inch Metal...
187PCS Stainless Steel Cable Tie Gun Kit, 11.8 Inch Metal…
Add to your setup →

Key Takeaways

  • The Samsung Bespoke is the strongest all-around choice: it pairs a third rack with StormWash+ and smart features, making it a feature-rich pick for households that want more than extra utensil space.
  • The Sharp SDW6736MS is the noise-focused standout: its stated 47 dB rating and Power Wash sprayer make it a compelling alternative when quieter operation and targeted cleaning matter.
  • Sharp’s 18-inch model solves a fit problem, not a capacity problem: choose it when cabinet space rules out a standard-width unit, and expect less room for a full-size household load.
  • Not every listing gives the same level of detail: compare the exact Sharp model number and rack configuration rather than assuming all Sharp third-rack dishwashers share the same features.
  • The Kenmore and Sharp 24-inch options serve simpler priorities: they may suit buyers who want a built-in third-rack dishwasher without prioritizing premium smart functions or specialized wash features.
2
Sharp SDW6506JS 24-Inch Stainl
Best for Straightforward Controls
1
Kenmore 24-Inch Built-In Dishw
Best for Larger Loads
3
Sharp 24-Inch Stainless Steel
Best for Targeted Cleaning

Our Top Dishwashers With Third Rack Picks

Kenmore 24-Inch Built-In Dishwasher with Third Rack, WhiteKenmore 24-Inch Built-In Dishwasher with Third Rack, WhiteBest for Larger LoadsType: 24-inch built-in dishwasherCapacity: Up to 15 place settingsNoise level: 49 dBAVIEW ON AMAZONSee Our Full Breakdown
Sharp SDW6506JS 24-Inch Stainless Steel DishwasherSharp SDW6506JS 24-Inch Stainless Steel DishwasherBest for Straightforward ControlsInstallation type: Built-inDimensions: 22.75 x 23.63 x 33.63 inchesCapacity: 12 place settingsVIEW ON AMAZONSee Our Full Breakdown
Sharp 24-Inch Stainless Steel Built-In Dishwasher with Third RackSharp 24-Inch Stainless Steel Built-In Dishwasher with Third RackBest for Targeted CleaningInstallation type: Built-inDimensions: 24.5 in D x 23.88 in W x 33.88 in HCapacity: 12 place settingsVIEW ON AMAZONSee Our Full Breakdown
Sharp 18-Inch Built-In Dishwasher with Third RackSharp 18-Inch Built-In Dishwasher with Third RackBest Compact PickModel: SDW4523MSInstallation type: Built-inDimensions: 17.68 in W x 22.68 in D x 32.12 in HVIEW ON AMAZONSee Our Full Breakdown
Sharp SDW6736MS 24-inch Stainless Steel Dishwasher, Third Rack, Library Quiet 47 dB, Power Wash SprayerSharp SDW6736MS 24-inch Stainless Steel Dishwasher, Third Rack, Library Quiet 47 dB, Power Wash SprayerBest Premium Feature SetInstallation type: Built-inProduct dimensions: 23-7/8 x 33-7/8 x 26-15/32 inchesCutout dimensions: 24 x 34 inches; 35 inches maximum height x 24 inchesVIEW ON AMAZONSee Our Full Breakdown
Samsung Bespoke Smart Dishwasher with 3rd Rack and StormWash+, Stainless Steel, DW80B7070US/AASamsung Bespoke Smart Dishwasher with 3rd Rack and StormWash+, Stainless Steel, DW80B7070US/AABest for Smart, Quiet CleaningInstallation: Built-inCapacity: 1.28 cubic feetNoise level: 42 dBAVIEW ON AMAZONSee Our Full Breakdown
Specs at a glance
dishwashers with third rackNoise levelCapacityInstallation typeDimensions
Kenmore 24-Inch Built-In Dishw49 dBAUp to 15 place settings——
Sharp SDW6506JS 24-Inch Stainl49 dB12 place settingsBuilt-in22.75 x 23.63 x 33.63 inches
Sharp 24-Inch Stainless Steel 47 dB12 place settingsBuilt-in24.5 in D x 23.88 in W x 33.88 in H
Sharp 18-Inch Built-In Dishwas47 dB8 place settingsBuilt-in17.68 in W x 22.68 in D x 32.12 in H
Sharp SDW6736MS 24-inch Stainl47 dB—Built-in—
Samsung Bespoke Smart Dishwash42 dBA1.28 cubic feet—23.88 × 24.88 × 35.88 inches

More Details on Our Top Picks

  1. Kenmore 24-Inch Built-In Dishwasher with Third Rack, White

    Kenmore 24-Inch Built-In Dishwasher with Third Rack, White

    Best for Larger Loads

    View on Amazon

    The Kenmore is the capacity-focused pick here: its 15-place-setting interior holds more than either 12-place-setting Sharp 24-inch model, which can mean fewer loads for a busy household. Its removable third rack adds a place for flatware and small utensils, while the adjustable upper rack helps make room for taller dishes. A 50-minute Express cycle and half-load option also give you choices when a full standard cycle feels like too much. At 49 dBA, it is not as quiet as the 47 dB Sharp SDW6736MS or Sharp 24-Inch Stainless Steel Built-In Dishwasher. Heated fan drying and leak detection round out the feature set, but the supplied details do not establish drying or cleaning results. Choose it for capacity and cycle flexibility, not the quietest operation.

    Pros:
    • Capacity of up to 15 place settings exceeds the listed capacity of the 12-place-setting Sharp 24-inch models.
    • Removable third rack creates a separate spot for flatware and small utensils.
    • 50-minute Express cycle offers a shorter wash option for a full load.
    • Half-load option, heated fan drying, and leak detection add useful flexibility.
    Cons:
    • At 49 dBA, it is louder on paper than the 47 dB Sharp SDW6736MS and Sharp 24-Inch Stainless Steel Built-In Dishwasher.
    • The supplied product details do not provide measured cleaning or drying results.
    • The white finish offers a different look from the stainless steel choices in this lineup.

    Best for: Households that regularly run large loads and want a removable third rack plus a fast cycle for everyday dishes.

    Not ideal for: Buyers prioritizing the quietest operation or a 47 dB option; the Kenmore runs at 49 dBA.

    • Type:24-inch built-in dishwasher
    • Capacity:Up to 15 place settings
    • Noise level:49 dBA
    • Spray arms:3
    • Express cycle:50 minutes
    • Drying:TurboDry with fan and heating element
    • Racks:Adjustable upper rack and removable third rack
    • Other features:Half Load, Sani Rinse, and leak detection
    • Certification:ENERGY STAR
    Our verdict
    “Choose the Kenmore if your main priority is fitting larger loads around a useful third rack, and look elsewhere if lower noise matters more.”
  2. Sharp SDW6506JS 24-Inch Stainless Steel Dishwasher

    Sharp SDW6506JS 24-Inch Stainless Steel Dishwasher

    Best for Straightforward Controls

    View on Amazon

    The Sharp SDW6506JS suits buyers who want a three-rack layout without stepping up to the more elaborate wash features on the Sharp SDW6736MS. Its adjustable upper rack moves by two inches, helping accommodate taller items while keeping a dedicated third rack available for utensils. Five cycles, a half-load option, and heated dry cover familiar day-to-day needs, and the 49 dB rating matches the Kenmore’s stated noise level. Capacity is the main compromise: at 12 place settings, it falls short of the Kenmore’s 15, so larger households may need to run loads more often. Its stainless steel walls are paired with a plastic floor, unlike the stainless steel tub listed for the Sharp SDW6736MS. That hybrid construction is a clear distinction for shoppers comparing materials.

    Pros:
    • Three racks include a dedicated third rack for silverware and utensils.
    • Upper rack adjusts by two inches to create space for taller dishes.
    • Half-load option and heated dry provide useful choices for smaller or finished loads.
    • Fingerprint-resistant finish and front touch controls suit a straightforward kitchen setup.
    Cons:
    • Capacity is limited to 12 place settings, compared with 15 for the Kenmore.
    • The tub has stainless steel walls but a plastic floor, unlike the listed stainless steel tub of the Sharp SDW6736MS.
    • At 49 dB, it is not as quiet on paper as the 47 dB Sharp models.

    Best for: Small or medium households that want a stainless-finish, three-rack dishwasher with an adjustable upper rack and simple cycle selection.

    Not ideal for: Large households that need the greatest listed capacity, or buyers specifically seeking an all-stainless-steel tub.

    • Installation type:Built-in
    • Dimensions:22.75 x 23.63 x 33.63 inches
    • Capacity:12 place settings
    • Noise level:49 dB
    • Racks:Three, including a third rack
    • Upper rack adjustment:Moves up or down by 2 inches
    • Wash cycles:5
    • Options:Half load and heated dry
    • Tub material:Stainless steel walls with plastic floor
    Our verdict
    “Pick the SDW6506JS for an adjustable three-rack layout and practical controls, but choose the Kenmore for more capacity or a 47 dB Sharp for lower stated noise.”
  3. Sharp 24-Inch Stainless Steel Built-In Dishwasher with Third Rack

    Sharp 24-Inch Stainless Steel Built-In Dishwasher with Third Rack

    Best for Targeted Cleaning

    View on Amazon

    This Sharp is the better fit for buyers who want more wash control than the SDW6506JS provides. Its Power Wash sprayer is designed for heavily soiled dishes, while soil sensors and Wash Zones let the machine respond to load conditions or focus washing on one rack. Those features make the third-rack layout more versatile: you can handle utensils above while directing a smaller wash to the upper or lower rack. It also runs at 47 dB, quieter on paper than the Kenmore and SDW6506JS. The tradeoff is unchanged capacity of 12 place settings, rather than the Kenmore’s 15, and the supplied data does not specify the third rack’s adjustability. Choose it for targeted wash options and quieter operation, not maximum capacity.

    Pros:
    • Power Wash sprayer is intended for heavily soiled dishes.
    • Soil sensors and Wash Zones add more targeted wash control than the SDW6506JS lists.
    • 47 dB noise rating is lower on paper than the Kenmore and Sharp SDW6506JS.
    • Heated drying and fingerprint-resistant stainless steel finish add everyday convenience.
    Cons:
    • 12-place-setting capacity is smaller than the Kenmore’s listed 15-place-setting capacity.
    • The supplied specifications do not state whether the third rack is adjustable.
    • It lists 3.5 gph water consumption, compared with 3 gph for the Sharp SDW6506JS.

    Best for: Households that often wash a mix of heavily soiled cookware and smaller loads, and want rack-specific wash options alongside a third rack.

    Not ideal for: Buyers who need more than 12 place settings or want confirmed details about an adjustable third rack.

    • Installation type:Built-in
    • Dimensions:24.5 in D x 23.88 in W x 33.88 in H
    • Capacity:12 place settings
    • Noise level:47 dB
    • Wash cycles:5
    • Options:4
    • Water consumption:3.5 gph
    • Cleaning features:Power Wash sprayer, soil sensors, and Wash Zones
    • Controls and finish:Front touch controls; fingerprint-resistant stainless steel
    Our verdict
    “Choose this Sharp if targeted cleaning and a quieter listed rating matter more than matching the Kenmore’s larger capacity.”
  4. Sharp 18-Inch Built-In Dishwasher with Third Rack

    Sharp 18-Inch Built-In Dishwasher with Third Rack

    Best Compact Pick

    View on Amazon

    For a kitchen that cannot accommodate a standard 24-inch dishwasher, this 18-inch Sharp offers a third rack in a compact footprint. Its 8-place-setting capacity is well below the Kenmore’s 15 and the 12-place-setting Sharp SDW6736MS, so this is a fit-first choice rather than a substitute for a full-size machine. The removable third rack helps keep flatware and utensils separate, while independent rack wash zones can direct washing to the upper or lower section when the load is small. At 47 dB, it shares the quieter rating of the larger SDW6736MS. Six cycles, smart sensors, and automatic door-opening drying add flexibility, but the smaller capacity means larger households may have to run frequent loads. Check the kitchen opening before choosing it.

    Pros:
    • 18-inch width fits kitchens where a standard 24-inch dishwasher may not.
    • Removable third rack provides separate storage for flatware and utensils.
    • Independent upper and lower rack wash zones suit smaller loads.
    • 47 dB operation, smart sensors, and automatic door-opening drying are included.
    Cons:
    • Capacity is 8 place settings, substantially below the 12- and 15-place-setting full-size options.
    • Built-in installation requires a compatible 18-inch kitchen opening.
    • The compact capacity may mean more frequent cycles for households with several people.

    Best for: Apartment dwellers, couples, or small households with an 18-inch built-in opening who still want a third rack and separate rack wash zones.

    Not ideal for: Families or frequent entertainers who need the capacity of a 24-inch model such as the Kenmore or Sharp SDW6736MS.

    • Model:SDW4523MS
    • Installation type:Built-in
    • Dimensions:17.68 in W x 22.68 in D x 32.12 in H
    • Capacity:8 place settings
    • Noise level:47 dB
    • Wash cycles:6
    • Options:4
    • Interior:Stainless steel
    • Drying:Automatic door-opening feature
    Our verdict
    “Choose this Sharp when an 18-inch opening is the deciding constraint and an 8-place-setting capacity suits your household.”
  5. Sharp SDW6736MS 24-inch Stainless Steel Dishwasher, Third Rack, Library Quiet 47 dB, Power Wash Sprayer

    Sharp SDW6736MS 24-inch Stainless Steel Dishwasher, Third Rack, Library Quiet 47 dB, Power Wash Sprayer

    Best Premium Feature Set

    View on Amazon

    The SDW6736MS is the most feature-rich full-size Sharp in this group. It combines an adjustable third rack with a Power Wash sprayer, wash zones, heated dry, and six cycles plus seven options. Compared with the Sharp SDW6506JS, it offers more listed wash choices and a lower 47 dB noise rating; compared with the Sharp 24-Inch Stainless Steel Built-In Dishwasher, it specifies an adjustable third rack and stainless steel tub. Wash zones can direct a smaller load to one part of the machine, so you need not wait for every rack to fill. These extras come with a full-size built-in installation and no stated capacity figure in the supplied specs. The bar handle may also be less comfortable for buyers who prefer a recessed grip. Pick it for feature depth, not if connectivity or a compact footprint is your priority.

    Pros:
    • Adjustable third rack gives more flexibility for arranging utensils and flatware.
    • Power Wash sprayer and wash zones cover both heavily soiled items and smaller loads.
    • 47 dB noise rating is lower on paper than the 49 dB Kenmore and Sharp SDW6506JS.
    • Stainless steel tub, heated dry, and fingerprint-resistant finish round out the listed features.
    Cons:
    • Built-in installation does not suit kitchens needing a portable dishwasher.
    • The supplied product data does not state a place-setting capacity.
    • No smart or Wi-Fi connectivity is listed, and the bar handle may not suit buyers who prefer a recessed grip.

    Best for: Buyers seeking a quiet, full-size dishwasher with an adjustable third rack, targeted wash zones, and multiple cycle options.

    Not ideal for: Shoppers who need a compact or portable machine, want smart or Wi-Fi controls, or need a confirmed place-setting capacity before choosing.

    • Installation type:Built-in
    • Product dimensions:23-7/8 x 33-7/8 x 26-15/32 inches
    • Cutout dimensions:24 x 34 inches; 35 inches maximum height x 24 inches
    • Noise level:47 dB
    • Third rack:Adjustable
    • Cycles and options:6 wash cycles and 7 options
    • Cleaning features:Power Wash sprayer and Wash Zones
    • Drying:Heated dry
    • Tub and finish:Stainless steel tub; fingerprint-resistant finish
    Our verdict
    “Choose the SDW6736MS for the broadest listed wash-feature set and an adjustable third rack, provided its built-in format and unspecified capacity fit your needs.”
  6. Samsung Bespoke Smart Dishwasher with 3rd Rack and StormWash+, Stainless Steel, DW80B7070US/AA

    Samsung Bespoke Smart Dishwasher with 3rd Rack and StormWash+, Stainless Steel, DW80B7070US/AA

    Best for Smart, Quiet Cleaning

    View on Amazon

    The Samsung Bespoke stands out for pairing a third rack with StormWash+ dual wash arms and a rotating spray jet, giving heavily soiled cookware extra coverage without making pre-rinsing the main plan. Its 42 dBA operation is quieter than the Sharp SDW6736MS listed at 47 dB, a meaningful difference for open kitchens or evening cycles. The AutoRelease Door lets air circulate near the end of a cycle to help dishes dry, while SmartThings connectivity adds phone-based control.

    The tradeoff is that its feature set may be more than buyers need if they mainly want straightforward extra utensil space; a simpler third-rack model may be easier to justify. The supplied data also gives no cycle-duration details, and the one-year limited warranty is worth checking against your coverage expectations. I’d choose this over the Sharp when quiet running and connected controls matter as much as rack flexibility.

    Pros:
    • Third rack adds room for utensils and small items, freeing space in the lower racks.
    • StormWash+ dual wash arms and rotating spray jet target dishes from multiple angles.
    • AutoRelease Door circulates air to help improve drying.
    • 42 dBA operation and SmartThings Wi-Fi control suit quiet, connected kitchens.
    Cons:
    • Smart connectivity and advanced wash features may be unnecessary for buyers seeking a simpler machine.
    • The listed warranty is limited to one year.
    • The supplied product data does not specify wash-cycle durations.

    Best for: Open-plan households that want quiet cycles, extra space for utensils, and smartphone control alongside stronger wash coverage for pots and pans.

    Not ideal for: Buyers who want a basic third-rack dishwasher without app-connected features, or who prioritize a longer stated warranty.

    • Installation:Built-in
    • Capacity:1.28 cubic feet
    • Noise level:42 dBA
    • Dimensions:23.88 × 24.88 × 35.88 inches
    • Wash cycles:7
    • Energy consumption:239 kWh per year
    • Water consumption:3.2 gallons per hour
    • Key features:Third rack, AutoRelease Door, SmartThings Wi-Fi connectivity, StormWash+
    • Warranty:1-year limited warranty
    Our verdict
    “Choose the Samsung if you want a quiet third-rack dishwasher with connected controls and added wash coverage for cookware.”
dishwashers with third rack
6 Best Dishwashers With Third Rack for Maximum Loading Capacity and Convenience 20
What makes a great dishwashers with third rack
1
Check What the Third Rack Can Actually Hold
Third racks vary in depth, shape, and flexibility, so the label alone does not tell you how much usable space you get.
2
Protect Clearance for Tall Items
A third rack sits above the upper rack, so its design can affect the space available for tall glasses, bowls, or cookware.
3
Match Width and Capacity to Your Kitchen
Most of the models in this roundup are 24 inches wide, while the Sharp compact option is 18 inches.
4
Decide Whether Noise Features Matter in Your Home
Noise matters most when the kitchen opens into living or sleeping areas, or when cycles run overnight.
How to choose your dishwashers with third rack
1
How we picked
I ranked these models around the job a third rack is meant to do: add useful space for utensils and small items without
2
Check What the Third Rack Can Actually Hold
Third racks vary in depth, shape, and flexibility, so the label alone does not tell you how much usable space you get.
3
Protect Clearance for Tall Items
A third rack sits above the upper rack, so its design can affect the space available for tall glasses, bowls, or cookwar
4
Match Width and Capacity to Your Kitchen
Most of the models in this roundup are 24 inches wide, while the Sharp compact option is 18 inches.
5
Decide Whether Noise Features Matter in Your Home
Noise matters most when the kitchen opens into living or sleeping areas, or when cycles run overnight.
Vetted dishwashers with third rack ·
The best dishwashers with third rack, compared
★ Winner Kenmore 24-Inch Built-In Dishw
Best for Larger Loads
6compared
7top wash cycles
3dryings

How We Picked

I ranked these models around the job a third rack is meant to do: add useful space for utensils and small items without making the lower racks harder to load. I weighed the stated rack arrangement and dimensions alongside cleaning features, noise information, usability, and the practical difference between a standard-width and compact dishwasher. I also treated model-specific details carefully; a feature named for one Sharp or Samsung model should not be assumed to appear on another model from the same brand.

The Samsung leads for its combination of a third rack, StormWash+, and connected features, while the Sharp SDW6736MS earns a distinct place for its stated 47 dB operation and Power Wash sprayer. The 18-inch Sharp ranks for shoppers with a genuine width constraint rather than as a substitute for a full-capacity model. The remaining Kenmore and Sharp options are positioned for buyers with simpler needs, with the exact model and installation details worth checking before purchase. I did not rank by brand alone: fit, useful rack design, and features that solve a real loading or cleaning need carried more weight than a long feature list.

Feature comparison
Everyday → specialist
Everyday & valuePremium & specialist
Which dishwashers with third rack fits you?
The everyday user
All-round, reliable
The enthusiast
Premium & high-performance
The gift-giver
Looks & craftsmanship

Factors to Consider When Choosing Dishwashers With Third Rack

A third rack can free up space below, but it does not automatically make every dishwasher easier to load. I recommend checking how the rack fits your utensils, what it does to the clearance beneath it, and whether the machine matches your kitchen and household routines. These broader checks help separate a genuinely useful layout from a feature that looks good on a spec sheet.

Check What the Third Rack Can Actually Hold

Third racks vary in depth, shape, and flexibility, so the label alone does not tell you how much usable space you get. Think about the items you currently put in the utensil basket: long serving pieces, cooking tools, lids, or small cups may need different rack shapes. A shallow tray can be convenient for cutlery but may not fit bulkier utensils. Check product diagrams and dimensions, and look for notes about adjustable or removable sections. One common mistake is counting the third rack as added capacity without checking whether it simply relocates items from another rack. Choose based on the items you wash most often, not the rack name.

Protect Clearance for Tall Items

A third rack sits above the upper rack, so its design can affect the space available for tall glasses, bowls, or cookware. Before choosing, check whether the upper rack adjusts and whether that adjustment leaves enough room for the dishes you use. If your household regularly washes tall stemware or large plates, compare loading diagrams and confirm the rack can be repositioned or removed if needed. Do not assume that a third rack will fit comfortably alongside every oversized item. It can be useful to measure your tallest frequently washed dishes and compare that with the appliance’s rack configuration. The best layout is the one that adds small-item space without forcing you to hand-wash the items that already cause loading problems.

Match Width and Capacity to Your Kitchen

Most of the models in this roundup are 24 inches wide, while the Sharp compact option is 18 inches. A narrower machine can make a dishwasher possible in a smaller kitchen, but it also limits how much you can wash per cycle. That may be a fair trade for one or two people, yet a larger household could end up running it more often. Measure the opening, including height and depth, and check door clearance and connections before ordering. A third rack does not offset a capacity mismatch; it organizes small items but cannot create extra room for pots and plates. Prioritize the correct fit first, then compare rack features among models that fit.

Decide Whether Noise Features Matter in Your Home

Noise matters most when the kitchen opens into living or sleeping areas, or when cycles run overnight. A stated decibel figure can help with comparison, but it is only useful when you compare figures provided on a consistent basis. The Sharp SDW6736MS lists 47 dB, giving shoppers a concrete point of reference within this group. If a model listing does not provide a noise figure, check the manufacturer’s specifications rather than treating a quiet-sounding feature name as proof. Also think about cycle timing and where the dishwasher sits relative to conversation or work areas. Buyers in enclosed kitchens may prefer to prioritize loading flexibility and cleaning functions over a small difference in published noise levels.

Pay for Wash Features You Will Use

Specialized spray systems and smart controls are useful when they match your routine, but extra functions can add complexity without improving every load. A targeted wash feature may appeal to households that often clean heavily soiled cookware, while connected controls may matter to someone who wants to monitor or schedule cycles. If you mostly wash standard dishes, an easier-to-use machine with a suitable rack layout may be a better fit than a model with functions you rarely select. Check which features belong to the exact model number, since similarly named products can differ. Consider who will operate the dishwasher as well: simple controls may make daily use easier for a household that does not want to manage app settings. Spend for a clear benefit, not for a feature list alone.

Confirm Installation and Maintenance Details

Built-in dishwashers need a compatible cabinet opening, water supply, drain connection, and electrical setup. Verify the installation requirements for the exact model before buying, especially when replacing an older unit or moving from a standard-width machine to a compact one. Check the filter and cleaning instructions as well; a dishwasher still needs routine care to keep food debris and odors under control. A third rack does not change those maintenance needs, and its tracks or removable sections may need occasional cleaning too. Read the warranty and service information from the manufacturer so you know what support applies to your model. Confirming these details early can prevent a rack upgrade from becoming an installation headache.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will a third rack make a 24-inch dishwasher hold more dishes?

It can improve how the interior is organized, especially for cutlery and small utensils, but it does not guarantee room for more dishes overall. The rack may free space in the utensil basket or other racks, while also taking up vertical clearance. Compare loading diagrams and check what happens to upper-rack height when the third rack is in place. If you often wash large plates or tall glasses, confirm that they still fit in your preferred arrangement. Think of the rack as a way to use space differently, not as a promise of extra capacity.

Is an 18-inch dishwasher with a third rack enough for a family?

That depends on how often your household cooks, how many place settings accumulate, and whether you are comfortable running more frequent cycles. The compact Sharp is useful when a standard-width dishwasher cannot fit, but its narrower interior limits the room available for plates, cookware, and bowls. A third rack helps organize small items; it does not make the lower racks as spacious as those in a 24-inch machine. Before choosing a compact model, consider your largest typical load and the space needed for pots or serving dishes. If your kitchen can accommodate 24 inches, that width is usually the more practical starting point for a larger household.

Should I choose the Sharp SDW6736MS or the Samsung Bespoke?

I would favor the Sharp SDW6736MS if the stated 47 dB rating and Power Wash sprayer line up with your priorities. The Samsung Bespoke is the more feature-focused choice in this group, combining a third rack with StormWash+ and smart functions. The decision is less about which brand is better and more about whether quiet operation and targeted washing or connected features are more useful in your home. Compare the exact model specifications, dimensions, and rack layouts before deciding. If app-based control is not valuable to you, the Samsung’s extra connected features may not justify choosing it over a simpler fit.

How can I tell whether a third rack will fit my tall glasses and large plates?

Look for the manufacturer’s loading diagrams and measurements showing clearance between the third rack, upper rack, and lower rack. Check whether the upper rack adjusts and whether the third rack can be removed or reconfigured. Measure your tallest glasses and largest plates at home, then compare those measurements with the stated clearances. Product photos can help, but they may not show the rack in every position or with a full load. If the listing leaves clearance unclear, confirm it with the manufacturer before purchase rather than guessing from the dishwasher’s outside dimensions.

Are smart controls worth choosing over a simpler third-rack dishwasher?

Smart controls can help if you expect to check cycle status remotely, schedule washes, or use connected features regularly. They are less useful if you prefer pressing a button at the machine and rarely use a phone to manage appliances. A smart interface also does not replace a rack layout that works for your dishes or a machine that fits the opening. Compare the controls and wash options you will use against the added setup and connectivity requirements. For many buyers, the better choice is the model with the most practical loading arrangement, even if it has fewer connected features.

Conclusion

For most shoppers, I recommend the Samsung Bespoke DW80B7070US/AA as the best overall because it combines a third rack with StormWash+ and smart features. For a feature-focused alternative with a stated quiet-operation detail, choose the Sharp SDW6736MS; it is my best pick for buyers who value its 47 dB rating and Power Wash sprayer. For best value, compare the Kenmore and the simpler Sharp 24-inch models by exact rack layout, installation fit, and included functions rather than choosing on brand name alone. For beginners, I would start with the model whose controls and rack arrangement are easiest to understand, then confirm that the manual and installation details suit your kitchen. For a compact kitchen, the 18-inch Sharp is the specific-fit choice, but shoppers with room for a 24-inch unit should favor the wider format for more loading space. The right pick is the one that fits your opening and dishes first, then makes the third rack genuinely useful.

You May Also Like

12 Best Bulbs for Your Bathroom Lighting Needs – Illuminate Your Space in Style

Discover the top bathroom bulbs in 2026. Our guide compares brightness, color, longevity, and value to help you choose the perfect light for your bathroom.

14 Best Water Leak Detectors to Protect Your Home in 2026

Discover the top water leak detectors of 2026. Find the best overall, budget-friendly, and smart options to protect your home from leaks.

Top 5 Instagrammers You Need to Follow Right Now for Daily Inspiration and Entertainment

Discover the top Instagram influencers to follow in 2026. From lifestyle to niche experts, find the best accounts for inspiration and growth.

13 Best Premium Fishing Rod and Reel Combos That Guarantee a Great Catch in 2026

Discover the top premium fishing rod and reel combos for 2026. Find the best overall, value picks, and specialized options for serious anglers.