Without question, Miele is one of the best brands for dishwashers, and their 7000 series has just been updated with some interesting features.
I bet when you asked your appliance store about Miele, they had glowing things to say.
But should they?
In this article, you’ll get an in-depth look at Miele dishwashers and whether you should consider buying one.
You’ll learn about their features, performance, and how their reliability stacks up against new dishwashers from other brands like GE Profile, Beko with their new CornerIntense Wash, and LG with their steam hybrid wash.
And yes, at the end, we’ll directly compare Miele’s dishwashers to the new KitchenAid and Bosch 800 Series.
First, let’s take a look at how to buy a Miele dishwasher.
Looking for answers about Dishwashers?
Short on time? Download our free Dishwasher Buying Guide.
How to Buy a Miele Dishwasher
Purchasing a Miele can be confusing—even for me, and I do this for a living.
This section covers the key features of Miele dishwashers, their reliability, and what sets them apart from other models.
Key Features of Miele Dishwashers
Let’s focus on what sets Miele apart by looking at the dishwasher features that come standard in all models.
Third Rack
All Miele dishwashers in this article have a third rack for silverware.
It was a Miele innovation. Others have since copied it, but Miele lets you lock in the silverware so it doesn’t move around and get scratched.
So, if you have George Jenson or other fine flatware, Miele is worth considering.
Note: You can also remove the rack to make unloading into your silverware tray easier.
Higher-end Miele dishwashers feature a 3D cutlery tray that you can slide out of the way to accommodate taller glasses on the top rack.
Top models also feature AutoDos, StrawClean, and the handleless knock-to-open function.
Three Full Wash Arms
Miele is one of the few dishwashers with top, middle, and bottom wash arms.
Most brands have only two wash arms or much smaller ones at the top, like Bosch or KitchenAid. That third arm effectively washes silverware on the top rack.
You’ll see later in the article whether it makes a difference.
Drying
.jpg?width=799&height=450&name=Miele-Dishwasher%20(1).jpg)
Miele is also one of the few dishwashers with a true drying cycle.
It allows cooler outside air into the dishwasher. When steam encounters cooler surfaces, it loses its energy and condenses back into water, which then disperses.
Miele’s high-end series features two ports at the bottom for even faster drying.
The door pops open at the end of the cycle to let steam escape.
If you wash at night, that steam won’t reform into a thin layer of water by morning.
Later, we’ll see how Miele’s drying compares to other new drying systems, like Bosch’s CrystalDry.
Double WaterProof System
Miele’s Double Waterproof System automatically shuts off the water supply if the dishwasher starts to leak.
Many dishwashers have leak protection, but Miele’s system is more advanced.
One of my friends had an upstairs neighbor with a water leak that seeped into their unit—and to the units below. It was a nightmare you don’t want.
Miele has the best system for leak prevention, alongside Bosch’s AquaStop.
Pro Tip: Make sure your installer knows how to install a dishwasher. If you live in a condo on the 35th floor, be sure they’re insured, too.
Integrated and Panel-Ready Options
Miele, Bosch, and all European brands are designed to seamlessly fit into a 24-inch cabinet, ensuring an integrated look without any protrusion.
The dishwasher becomes indistinguishable from the cabinetry, which is the only way to buy a paneled dishwasher.
However, American brands like GE, Whirlpool, and KitchenAid tend to protrude, looking like a dishwasher with a panel tacked on.
Read More: Best Panel-Ready Dishwashers
Understanding Miele Dishwasher Models: Series, Numbers, and Styles
Miele offers a range of series and models, each with unique features, which can feel overwhelming at first.
Here’s how to interpret Miele’s dishwasher model numbers:
The first letter and number, like “G7″ or “G5,” indicate the series. This article focuses on the G 7000 series, while the G 5000 series is a more affordable option.
The numbers that follow, such as “7986” in G 7986 SCVi K2O, identify the specific model within the G 7000 series.
The letters after the model number describe the style.
- SCU: Stainless steel with front controls.
- SCVI: Paneled design with top controls.
- SCVISF: Stainless steel, top controls, and a PureLine handle.
- SCVISFP: Top controls with a pocket handle.
- K2O: Includes the Knock2Open Feature
Overall, Miele dishwashers primarily differ by control panel styles—some have visible front controls, while others feature sleek, integrated controls hidden from view.
Seven Major Differences Across Miele Dishwasher Series
1. Adjustable Racks
All Miele dishwashers have fully adjustable top racks, but the better models have adjustable tines within the rack to fit almost anything.
The top rack evolves from a regular one to the MultiFlex 3D, which is fully adjustable to accommodate taller wine glasses below.
Note: Any rack piece that is orange in a Miele dishwasher is either adjustable or removable.
2. Quietness
Miele dishwashers range from 37-44 dB, all below the quietness standard. So, you won’t hear Miele running even in an open kitchen plan.
However, for Miele dishwashers to reach 37 dB, the motor slows down, resulting in a 4-hour cycle.
3. Drying Systems
Miele’s dishwashers feature a port that allows air into the bottom, helping circulate air and speed up the drying process. High-end models have two ports for even faster drying.
All Miele dishwashers pop open at the end of the cycle to release heat and steam.
4. Wi-Fi Connectivity
Most Miele dishwashers offer Wi-Fi, allowing you to control the dishwasher remotely, check the remaining time, and receive a notification when the cycle is complete.
5. Cycles
The cycle options vary. Basic models like the G 5000 have five base cycles, while the G 7000 series offers six to 14 programs and various options.
6. Knock2Open
You can open Miele’s top dishwashers by knocking twice on the door. It’s probably not at the top of your feature wish list, but handleless designs work well with better cabinetry.
7. AutoDos With PowerDisk Dishwasher Dispenser
Miele’s automatic detergent dispenser handles up to 20 loads, releasing the exact amount of detergent at the right time.
I initially thought this was an overblown feature, but clients reported cleaner dishes, thanks to the precise detergent release.
AutoDos is available in the G 7100, G 7700, and G 7900 series.
Miele Dishwasher Reliability
Miele dishwashers are known for their longevity and service. Miele claims a 20-year lifespan.
They’re built tough, with all components made by Miele, except for the rollers under the racks.
But how can you tell if any dishwasher will last 20 years?
You can’t.
Let’s look at actual service calls within the first year.
We have 35 service technicians who have conducted over 120,000 appliance service calls over the last three years.
This year, Miele ranks as one of the most reliable premium dishwashers you can buy.
We calculate reliability by dividing the number of products serviced by the products sold to determine the service rate percentage.
Dishwasher Reliability for 2024
The following service rates are based on a minimum of 100 products sold and a total sample size of over 8,000 units over 12 months.
| Service Rates | |
| LG | 4% |
| Bosch | 5.9% |
| Thermador | 5.9% |
| Miele | 6.2% |
| LG Studio | 6.2% |
| Fisher & Paykel | 6.7% |
| GE Profile | 8.1% |
| Asko | 10.2% |
| Beko | 11.2% |
| Café Appliances | 19.4% |
| Grand Total | 6.9% |
Miele’s service rate of 6.2% was slightly better than average of 6.9%.
While Miele is certainly reputable, Bosch and LG have shown even better reliability.
Now, that you’ve learned all about how to buy a Miele dishwasher, I think you’re ready to look at the best models to consider.
The Best Miele Dishwashers for 2024
Quietest Option: Miele G 7986 SCVi K2O ($3,699)
Starting with the high-end models, the Miele G 7986 SCVi panel-ready dishwasher is priced at $3,699.
It’s the most expensive dishwasher on the market—over twice as much as the best Bosch model.
It only comes in a panel-ready option, so if you want stainless steel, you’ll need to order a stainless panel and handle separately.
However, it’s packed with some appealing new features.
New Features of the Miele G 7986 SCVi K2O
- FlexCare Glass and Bottle Holder: Ever had trouble fitting a jug, vase, or oddly sized glass? Miele has a new holder that allows you to wash any size glass easily.
- XL Assist: Need to wash a larger platter, frying pan, or Tupperware dish? The XL Assist is designed to accommodate larger items.
- StrawClean: Reusable straws are popular, but no one knows how to clean them—except for Miele, which has a special holder for them. StrawClean adjusts to the straw’s length, ensuring a secure fit for a thorough clean with a targeted spray.
- MultiClip: Got an oddly shaped bowl or lid? Miele’s MultiClip is designed to fasten these pieces to the side of the rack securely.
- MaxiComfort Racks: The G7986 features Miele’s MaxiComfort racks, designed for flexibility and convenience with glassware, dishware, and cutlery. Key features include:
Other Features of the Miele G 7986 SCVi K2O
- 5-Year Warranty: This model offers the industry’s best warranty at five years, compared to just two years for other Miele dishwashers.
- Swipe Controls: Miele’s swipe controls imitate your smartphone for simplicity.
- Quietness: Miele is now the quietest dishwasher at 37 dB, but the cycle can last up to four hours. Even at 39 dB, it’s incredibly quiet.
- AutoDos: This feature uses a power disk containing enough detergent for about 20 wash cycles. It automatically dispenses the right amount at the right time for the best wash.
- Knock2Open: If you’re looking for a handleless design, you can order this model with the Knock2Open feature. Knock twice, and the dishwasher opens.
- Brilliant Lighting: Bright lighting inside makes it easy to empty the dishwasher at night.
Cycles Included:
- Pots and pans for heavily soiled, baked-on foods.
- Rinse and hold to rinse dishes that will be washed later.
- Normal wash for everyday loads with a normal soil level.
- China crystal for delicate china and glassware.
- QuickIntense Wash for a high level of cleaning in under an hour.
- Extra Quiet Wash reduces the noise to 37 dB.
- Energy Saver Cycle uses less energy for an eco-friendly wash.
- Intensive Wash for heavily soiled items that need thorough cleaning.
- Express Wash reduces program length by up to 50%.
- Auto Wash adjusts the settings based on soil levels and water hardness.
- GlassCare for a delicate wash designed for glassware.
- Extra Dry increases the wash temperature and drying time to ensure everything is dry.
- Clean Machine Cycle cleans the interior of the dishwasher.
- Grates and Filter Wash for cleaning dishwasher-safe grease filters.
- Bottle Clean Cycle is perfect for bottles and tall glasses, using the FlexCare Glass and Bottle holders.
- Comfort Wash is a gentle program for glassware using less energy.
- Economy Wash is highly economical for mixed loads.
- Tall Items Wash for large, bulky items on the bottom rack.
- Sani Wash for a high-temperature deep clean.
- Special Glass Wash for beer glasses to protect the froth.
- IntenseZone lets you wash normally soiled items on the top rack and heavily soiled ones on the bottom rack.
- Extra Clean adds a pre-rinse and raises the wash temperature for enhanced cleaning.
Pros & Cons of the Miele G 7986 SCVi K2O
Pros: This is the best dishwasher you can buy. It can wash anything, dry almost anything, and hold more than any other brand—including those pesky bowls, platters, and straws (who knew that was a thing?).
Cons: It’s $3,699. You could buy two Bosch Benchmark dishwashers for that price and still afford dinner in Boston.
Most Popular: Miele G 7196 SCVi ($2,149)
The G 7196 SCVi dishwasher will likely be the most popular of the G7000 series. It’s fully featured and offers the most commonly used cycles, plus AutoDos.
What’s missing?
- You don’t get the five-year warranty of the top model, the G79, but you can buy one and still save over $1,000.
- You won’t have LED lighting or the beer glass wash.
- Then again, you probably don’t have those now.
Quietness is rated at 42 decibels (or 40 dB if you want to wait four hours), compared to the better models at 39 and 37 dB.
You likely won’t hear any of those four dB levels anyway.
The baskets change from MaxiComfort to ExtraComfort, so you miss out on StrawClean and the cup rack.
You also don’t get Knock2Open, so you’ll have to grab the handle and pull like any other dishwasher.
But you still have the main cycles and AutoDos.
Cycles Included:
- QuickIntense Wash: Cleans and dries regularly soiled dishes in just 58 minutes.
- IntenseZone: Provides a longer wash duration in the lower basket at a higher temperature for plates and platters.
- Express: Reduces the program length by 62% for quicker results.
- Extra Clean: Adds enhanced cleaning properties to any program.
- Extra Dry: Extends drying time and increases rinse temperature, ensuring even plastics dry perfectly.
- Bottle Clean: Designed for bottles and tall items.
- Perfect GlassCare: A cycle for delicate glassware.
- Comfort Wash: A gentle cycle for everyday use that’s also eco-friendly.
Pros & Cons of the Miele G 7196 SCVi
Pros: You still get many unique features at $1,500 less than the G79 series. You can also order the G7196SCViSF in stainless steel right out of the box without needing to pay extra for a panel and handle.
Cons: It’s still twice the price of the average dishwasher.
Best for Budget: Miele G 5058 SCVi SFP ($1,499)
If you’re looking for a dishwasher with good capacity and reliability without all the bells and whistles, the G 5058 is a good choice.
This model has a pocket handle with hidden controls. It’s still quiet at 44 dB.
Like all Miele dishwashers, it features QuickIntense Wash, a 58-minute wash and dry cycle for normally soiled dishes using high temperatures, plus ComfortClose.
It offers the same leak protection and quality as the more expensive models, just without AutoDos, the better racking, and some specialty cycles like China Crystal and StrawClean.
At 44 dB, it’s quiet enough and will still dry well with one port instead of two. You also get most of the frequently used cycles.
Cycles Included:
- Normal
- Pots and Pans
- Express
- QuickIntense Wash
- Rinse and Hold
- Sani Wash
- Express Wash
- Extra Clean
- Extra Dry
Pros & Cons of the Miele Miele G 5058 SCVi SFP
Pros: Affordable, high-quality Miele option. Quiet at 44 dB, with a quick 58-minute wash/dry cycle for convenience. Top control panel for an integrated look, maintaining Miele’s standards even in a budget model.
Cons: Lacks many of the advanced features, especially the better racks, cycles, and AutoDos.
Lowest Price: Miele G 5008 SCU ($1,299)
The G 5008 SCU comes with the core features that define Miele quality—namely, the three-level wash, CleanAir drying, and the door that automatically pops open at the end of the cycle.
You still get the cutlery rack, and it meets the quietness standard at 44 dB, which is quiet enough for most homes.
What’s missing?
You won’t find the same rack flexibility or advanced cycles found in higher-end models.
Cycles Included:
- Normal
- Express
- Extra Dry
- Extra Clean
- Pots and Pans
- QuickIntense Wash
- Sani Wash
- Rinse and Hold
Pros & Cons of the Miele G 5058 SCVi SFP
Pros: Excellent washing and drying. Miele has one of the best systems, even in the lower series. The dishwasher is available with a ProLine or pocket handle, or you can apply your own custom panel.
Cons: Bosch, SKS, and KitchenAid all have competitive dishwashers in this price range.
How Do Miele Dishwashers Compare to Bosch and KitchenAid Dishwashers?
Now, let’s dive into a comparison of Miele dishwashers with Bosch and KitchenAid models.
How do these brands stack up against each other?
Let’s find out.
Miele vs. Bosch Dishwashers
Priced between $999 and $1,399, Bosch’s dishwashers are certainly worth considering.
Bosch has incorporated zeolite (yes, the volcanic element) into their drying system in models priced between $1,249 and $1,349 to increase heat and absorb moisture—and it works.
Their new PowerControl feature allows you to wash on the bottom rack with different intensities in different quadrants.
Miele outperforms Bosch in washing, according to our tests, because Miele uses three full wash arms.
Their racks are also designed to hold stemware and crystal securely in place, adding extra protection for delicate items.
Bosch racks don’t offer that same protection and lack the third full wash arm.
$1,799 and Up
The Bosch Benchmark series doesn’t add much over the Bosch 800 Series, except for ball bearing racks, a light, some extra cycles, and a time-remaining indicator on the floor.
Miele, starting at $2,149, offers better racks, more cycles, and the AutoDos feature.
Read More: Bosch vs. Miele Dishwashers
Miele vs. KitchenAid Dishwashers
.jpg?width=799&height=450&name=Miele-vs-KitchenAid-Dishwashers-(1).jpg)
KitchenAid has two main series.
Their less expensive option, the KitchenAid 200 Series, operates at 39 dB and offers decent cycles at a price range of $749 to $999.
It’s a solid choice for families—their racks are spacious, and you can fit just about anything inside.
On promotion, KitchenAid’s M Series dishwashers (priced between $899 and $1,299) have four wash action levels, including the largest usable third rack.
However, their drying system, which circulates air, doesn’t match up to Miele’s CleanAir drying system with the door that pops open at the end of the cycle.
KitchenAid is a good option to consider, especially at lower prices.
But their two higher-end units, priced at $1,499 and $1,899, don’t add much in terms of extra features.
Miele, on the other hand, offers better cycles, features, and leak protection starting at $1,299.
KitchenAid dishwashers are a great choice, particularly for the price, but Miele dishwashers are superior overall in terms of cycles, racking, and drying.
Also, KitchenAid dishwashers don’t sit flush in a standard 24-inch-deep cabinet.
Read More: Miele vs. KitchenAid Dishwashers
Should You Buy a Miele Dishwasher?
Miele makes excellent dishwashers, especially in the $1,499-and-above range, where most brands stop.
They provide a solid package of racking features, washing capability, and drying performance.
You should know the AutoDos dispenser is not just a gimmick—it actually works.
In our tests, Miele consistently ranked as the best for washing and drying.
However, you will pay nearly twice as much for a Miele as you would for most other dishwashers, and close to $1,000 more than for a Bosch 800.
Still, at $1,299 and above, Miele is worth considering because it offers a well-rounded package of washing, drying, cycles, racking, waterproofing, and reliability.
Additional Resources
Want to learn about the different dishwashers and brands? Downloadthe Yale Dishwasher Buying Guide packed with tips, features, and brands of every major dishwasher. Over 1 million people have read a Yale Guide.
Related Articles:
