Struggling to find a compact countertop dishwasher that won’t disrupt your kitchen with loud noise? The RCA RDW3216 operates within the 60dB to 62dB noise range, placing it among the 8% of countertop dishwashers that run at higher noise levels (see the comparative chart). While not the quietest model available, it balances performance and affordability. With 2 place settings and 5 wash cycles (Normal, Hygiene, Fruit, Glass, Rapid), it caters to small households or apartments needing an efficient dishwashing solution.
Read on to see if the RCA RDW3216 fits your kitchen needs, or jump to our Overview Summary below for a quick verdict.
Table of Contents
Overview Summary
Performance Indicators:
RCA RDW3216 Price History:
Pros:
- Compact countertop design
- 5 wash cycles, including Hygiene mode
- Hot air drying with Air Refresh function
- Uses only 6 liters (1.59 gallons) per cycle
- Delay start timer for convenience
- 360° rotating spray arm for deep cleaning
- Child lock for safety
Cons:
- Limited to 2 place settings
- Higher noise level at 62 dB
- No Energy Star certification
- No rinse aid indicator
- No Wi-Fi or smart home connectivity
RCA RDW3216 Performance Breakdown: Key Features and Ratings
Our dedicated team at WashDryDazzle has put the RCA RDW3216 countertop dishwasher to the test. Our goal? To help you, the user, make a wise choice.
💵 Price and Design (4.5/5)
With a price of $248, the RCA RDW3216 offers an affordable yet stylish solution for compact kitchens. Measuring 18.1 inches in height, 16.6 inches in width, and 16.9 inches in depth, it fits easily on most countertops. Its white body with a black digital display gives it a modern touch, while the transparent viewing window allows users to monitor the cleaning process. The touch panel controls provide a sleek and intuitive interface. While it lacks smart features like Wi-Fi connectivity or voice assistant compatibility, it remains a functional and well-designed choice for small spaces.
| Price | $270 |
| Height | 18.1 inches |
| Width | 15.8 inches |
| Depth | 16.1 inches |
| Weight | 30 pounds |
| Color | White Body. Control panel and viewing window’s border are Black. |
| Transparent Viewing Window / Solid Door | Transparent Viewing Window |
| Display | Digital Display |
| Touch or Tactile Controls | Touch Panel |
| Pull-down traditional door | Yes, Pull-down door |
| Wi-Fi enabled (smart dishwasher) | No |
| Compatibility with home assistants (e.g., Alexa, Google Assistant) | No |
✨ Cleaning Performance (4.6/5)
The RCA RDW3216 offers 5 wash cycles: Normal, Hygiene, Fruit, Glass, and Rapid, catering to different dishwashing needs. The Hygiene cycle reaches 162°F (72°C), making it ideal for baby bottles and heavily soiled dishes. Dual spray arms ensure thorough cleaning with 360° rotating spray technology to reach every corner. It features a manual three-layer removable filter system, which needs to be cleaned at least once a week for optimal performance. The delay start timer allows scheduling washes in advance, adding convenience. While it lacks a turbidity sensor, its high-temperature washing ensures effective cleaning.
| Number of Wash Cycles | 7 (Normal, ECO, Quick, Baby Care/Strong, Glass, Fruit, Self-clean, Dry Mode) |
| Specialized Cycles | 2 (Fruit – For fruits & vegetables, Baby Care – Suitable for cleaning baby bottles) |
| Number of Spray System/Points | 2 Spray Arms (Upper & Lower) |
| Targeted washing zones | Targeted Cleaning with 360° Rotating Spray Arm, Reaching Every Corner. |
| Filter type (self-cleaning or manual) | Manual cleaning with 3 layer removable filter system |
| Sanitization | 167°F (75 °C) High temperature cycle for Baby Care/Heavy Wash |
| Delay start timer | Yes |
| Hot water final rinse | Yes |
💨 Drying Performance (4.3/5)
Equipped with hot air drying, the RCA RDW3216 uses heated air to evaporate moisture from dishes after the wash cycle. During the 60-minute drying process, warm air circulates inside the dishwasher, ensuring plates, utensils, and cookware are thoroughly dried and ready for immediate use. The Air Refresh function helps by circulating fresh air for 72 hours, automatically venting moisture every 75 minutes to maintain freshness and prevent odors.
However, it lacks auto door opening for natural drying and does not support rinse aid, which helps reduce water spots on dishes.
| Hot Air Drying / Heat Drying | PTC Hot air drying |
| Fresh Air Circulation for Moisture and Odor | Supports 73 hours of ventilating storage (A 15-minute automatic ventilation will start every 75 minutes.) |
| Auto Door Opening for Natural Drying | No |
| Rinse aid availability and indicator | No |
🔕 Noise Level (4.0/5)
Operating at 62 dB, the RCA RDW3216 is not the quietest countertop dishwasher but remains within a manageable range. To put it in perspective, standing five feet away, it sounds similar to a normal conversation or background office noise—noticeable but not disruptive. Competitor models like the Farberware FDW05WHA operate at 54 dB, comparable to moderate rainfall or a distant conversation, making them quieter alternatives. While the RCA RDW3216 isn’t ideal for noise-sensitive households, its performance and affordability make it a solid choice for budget-conscious buyers.
⚡ Energy Efficiency (4.2/5)
The RCA RDW3216 consumes 200 kWh/year and operates on 110 volts, making it efficient for daily use. A Normal Cycle with hot air drying (165 minutes) uses approximately 0.62 kWh, which is equivalent to running a 1-ton air conditioner for about 37 minutes. Over a month of daily use, energy consumption would total 18.6 kWh (0.62 kWh/day × 30 days). While it lacks an Energy Star certification (which indicates high energy efficiency as per EPA standards), it still offers decent energy performance. The delay start timer allows users to schedule cycles during off-peak hours for better energy management.
| Energy Star rating | Not Energy Star |
| Estimated Energy Consumption / Wattage | 14.4 kWh/month for Daily use of Standard Cycle with PTC Hot Drying |
| Voltage Required | 120 Volts |
| Delay start timer | Yes |
| Batteries Required? | No |
💧 Water Usage (4.5/5)
The RCA RDW3216 uses 6 liters (1.59 gallons) per cycle, making it a water-efficient option compared to larger dishwashers. In comparison, the Joy Pebble DW8306 consumes 7.5 liters (1.98 gallons) per wash, meaning the RCA model uses approximately 20% less water per cycle. It features two water intake modes—a built-in tank and a faucet connection—providing flexibility for different kitchen setups. Whether you have a direct water line or prefer the tank for portability, this dishwasher adapts easily to your space and needs.
| Water Consumption (Per Cycle) | 5 Liters (1.32 Gallons) per cycle |
| Special Installation Required / Water Intake Modes | Easy Installation / 2 water intake modes (built-in tank and faucet mode) |
🕒 Cycle Time (4.4/5)
The RCA RDW3216 offers five different wash cycles, each varying in duration:
- Hygiene Cycle – 125 minutes
- Normal Cycle – 105 minutes
- Glass Cycle – 95 minutes
- Speed Cycle – 40 minutes
- Fruit Cycle – 30 minutes
For those needing a quick rinse, the Speed Cycle is the best option, while the Hygiene Cycle, with high-temperature washing and rinsing, is ideal for sanitizing baby bottles and heavily soiled dishes. For a deeper dive into specific wash cycles, please refer to our section: “Specialized Wash Cycles.”
🍽️ Loading Capacity (4.2/5)
Designed for small households, dorms, and apartments, the RCA RDW3216 accommodates 2 place settings (A Place Setting is defined further down in this section). It fits dishes up to 9.5 inches in diameter, making it ideal for everyday dinnerware. The included utensil basket helps organize silverware for a thorough clean. While it lacks adjustable racks or a third rack for cutlery, it efficiently utilizes its available space. This compact design is well-suited for individuals or couples looking for a space-saving dishwashing solution.
| Number of Place Settings | 4 place setting |
| Dish or Plate Size a Rack can Accumulate | Fits up to 10.25 inches dishes |
| Number of Racks | 1 Rack |
| Special Utensil Holders or Baskets | Cutlery Basket |
| Fold-down tines | Yes |
4 – Place Setting Dishwasher:
A place setting refers to the dishes and utensils needed for one person’s meal. In dishwashers, it indicates the number of such sets the appliance can handle in one cycle.
A 4-place setting dishwasher is designed to wash 4 dinner plates, 4 dessert plates, 4 soup bowls, 4 cups, 4 glasses, and 4 sets of cutlery in one cycle.
In reality, the exact combination can vary due to item sizes and shapes. For example, you might fit 4 dinner plates, 4 dessert plates, 4 soup bowls, 4 cups, 2 glasses, and 4 sets of cutlery comfortably in a 4-place setting dishwasher.
🔒 Safety Features (4.3/5)
Safety is a priority in the RCA RDW3216, featuring a child lock to prevent accidental operation, making it a reliable choice for households with young children. It also includes an error indicator that alerts users to potential leaks or malfunctions. The dishwasher is equipped with a non-slip base, ensuring it stays securely in place during operation. However, users should avoid placing it on unstable or uneven surfaces. For safe operation, avoid placing the dishwasher near gas or electric burners, and do not use extension cords or adapter plugs.
| Child lock – Safety Feature | Child lock |
| Leak or Overflow Protection – Safety Feature | error codes indicator |
| Non-Slipping Base | Yes |
🛠 Reliability and Durability (4.0/5)
Constructed with a durable glossy plastic exterior, the RCA RDW3216 is lightweight yet sturdy for regular use. It comes with a one-year warranty, ensuring protection against manufacturing defects. While plastic interiors may not be as durable as stainless steel tubs, they remain effective for regular dishwashing needs. To maintain longevity, avoid placing heavy objects on top of the unit. To keep your warranty valid, use the product only as intended (not for commercial or non-household use), follow the instruction manual, and avoid misuse, mishandling, accidents, neglect, or abuse, as these are not covered.
| Finish Type / Material | Plastic |
| Interior Tub Material | Plastic |
| Warranty Duration | 1 Year Warranty |
RCA RDW3216: Pre-programmed Wash Cycles
The RCA RDW3216 dishwasher features specialized cleaning cycles to tackle messes, ensuring your dishes shine every time. Here’s a quick breakdown of the available wash cycles:
| Cycle Name | Recommended Use | Wash Description | Temperature | Cycle Time | Air Drying Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hygiene | Baby bottles, oily/grimy tableware, pet products | Hot wash, hot rinse, cold rinse, hot rinse | 131°F/55°C (Wash), 131°F/55°C & 162°F/72°C (Rinse) | 125 min | 60 min |
| Normal | Regular dish loads | Hot wash, cold rinse, cold rinse, hot rinse | 131°F/55°C (Wash), 154°F/68°C (Rinse) | 105 min | 60 min |
| Glass | Slightly dirty dishes, glassware | Hot wash, cold rinse, hot rinse | 131°F/55°C (Wash), 154°F/68°C (Rinse) | 95 min | 60 min |
| Speed | Lightly soiled loads | Hot wash, cold rinse, hot rinse | 122°F/50°C (Wash), 144°F/62°C (Rinse) | 40 min | 60 min |
| Fruit | Washing hard surface fruit with room temperature water | Cold rinse, cold rinse | Constant temperature, no heating | 30 min | – |
RCA RDW3216 Dishwasher
RCA RDW3216 – Competitive Edge in the Market
💰 Affordable or Premium? A Look at Price Ranges
The RCA RDW3216 falls within the $205 to $255 price range, making it part of the budget-friendly segment, which accounts for 22% of countertop dishwashers. While it is not the cheapest option (8% of dishwashers are priced between $154 and $204), it remains significantly more affordable than the most common price range ($256 to $306), covering 38% of models.
Compared to mid-range and premium models, where 21% are priced between $307 and $357, and 12% exceed $358—this dishwasher offers a cost-effective option for buyers looking for essential functionality without unnecessary premium add-ons. Its competitive price makes it an attractive choice for those who prioritize affordability over advanced features.
🔇 How Quiet Is This Dishwasher? Noise Level Analysis
Operating at 60 dB to 62 dB, the RCA RDW3216 is among the 8% of countertop dishwashers that fall into the higher noise level range. The most common noise category is 52 dB to 55 dB, covering 42% of models, making it the industry standard for quiet operation. Dishwashers in the 48 dB to 51 dB range (27%) are even quieter, suitable for noise-sensitive environments.
While the RCA RDW3216 is not the quietest option, it remains within an acceptable range for most users. However, those who prioritize near-silent operation may prefer models in the 48 dB to 51 dB category. If noise is not a major concern, this dishwasher still provides solid performance at a budget-friendly price.
⚖️ Weight Insights: How Lightweight Is This Dishwasher?
Weighing 46.7 lbs, the RCA RDW3216 belongs to the 39.7 lbs to 47.3 lbs category, which accounts for 37% of countertop dishwashers. This weight range strikes a balance between sturdiness and portability, making it a stable option for small kitchens or RV setups.
Lighter models, 24.2 lbs to 31.8 lbs (37%), are easier to move but may sacrifice durability. Meanwhile, only 2% of models exceed 55.2 lbs, indicating that heavier dishwashers are rare in this category. While not the most lightweight unit available, the RCA RDW3216 offers enough portability while maintaining a durable build.
🍽️ Place Settings Capacity Compared to Competitors
![This chart illustrates the percentage of countertop dishwashers in different price ranges (in USD): • 11% for [$154, $204], • 17% for [$205, $255], • 33% for [$256, $306], • 22% for [$307, $357], • 13% for [$358, $408], • 4% for [$409, $460]. The chart highlights the position of "Karlxtom TDQR03" in the [$409, $460] range with a red annotation. The y-axis shows the percentage of dishwashers, and the x-axis shows the price ranges.](https://washdrydazzle.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/04_Karlxtom-TDQR03-Comparative-Price-Analysis-MW.png "04_Karlxtom TDQR03 Comparative Price Analysis-MW")
With 2 place settings, the RCA RDW3216 fits into a niche category that covers 23% of countertop dishwashers. While it is compact and ideal for individuals, couples, or small kitchens, the most common category, 4 place settings, accounts for 34% of models, offering slightly more space for dishes.
Larger countertop dishwashers, such as 6 place settings (35%), provide greater capacity for families but require more space. The RCA RDW3216 is a practical choice for those with limited countertop space, but users needing more flexibility might consider models with a higher place setting capacity.
🔄 Comparing Wash Cycles Across Dishwashers
The RCA RDW3216 features 5 wash cycles, which aligns with the most common category, making up 45% of countertop dishwashers. This ensures it meets the standard expectations for cleaning flexibility without overcomplicating operation.
For those needing more versatility, models with 6 or 7 cycles (23% and 24%, respectively) provide extra customization. On the other hand, only 3% of dishwashers offer just 4 wash cycles, indicating that 5 cycles strike a balance between simplicity and efficiency. The RCA countertop dishwasher holds a strong position in this category, making it a solid competitor in its price range.
Detailed Pros And Cons Of RCA RDW3216
Pros
- Compact countertop design fits easily in small kitchens
- 5 wash cycles, including Hygiene and Speed modes for versatile cleaning
- Hot air drying ensures dishes are ready to use after washing
- Air Refresh function circulates fresh air for 72 hours to prevent odors
- A transparent viewing window allows easy monitoring of the cleaning process
- Delay start timer offers scheduling flexibility for convenience
- Child lock feature enhances safety for households with children
- Targeted cleaning with 360° rotating spray arm ensures thorough coverage
- Easy installation with two water intake modes (built-in tank and faucet connection)
- High-temperature sanitization (162°F/72°C) in Hygiene cycle for baby bottles and heavily soiled dishes
Cons
- Only 2 place settings, limiting capacity for larger households
- 62 dB noise level is higher than quieter competitor models
- No Energy Star certification, meaning higher energy consumption compared to energy-efficient models
- Lacks auto door opening for natural drying, which could enhance drying efficiency
- No built-in water softener, which may require extra care in hard water areas
- Plastic interior tub and exterior, which may be less durable than stainless steel alternatives
- No Wi-Fi or smart home connectivity, limiting remote control options
RCA RDW3216 Dishwasher
Who Needs AIRMSEN Tabletop Dishwasher?
- Apartment dwellers and renters who need a space-saving dishwasher without permanent installation.
- Singles or couples looking for a compact dishwasher that handles daily dishwashing needs efficiently.
- Busy professionals who prefer a convenient dishwasher over handwashing but don’t need a large-capacity model.
- RV and boat owners who appreciate the dual water intake modes for flexible use.
- Parents with infants who want a high-temperature Hygiene cycle for sanitizing baby bottles.
- Users in dorms or shared housing who need a personal dishwasher for smaller loads.
- Safety-conscious users who appreciate features like a child lock and error indicators.
- People with allergies or sensitivities who need high-temperature wash cycles for sanitization.
Who Can Skip Considering This Dishwasher?
- Large families who need a dishwasher with more than 2 place settings for bigger loads.
- Tech enthusiasts who want smart home integration or Wi-Fi-enabled dishwashers.
- Households in hard water areas who may struggle without a built-in water softener.
- Users with oversized cookware who need a dishwasher that accommodates larger dish sizes.
- Eco-conscious buyers specifically looking for Energy Star-certified models for better energy efficiency.
- Frequent hosts who require a larger dishwasher to handle multiple place settings.
- Luxury appliance seekers who prefer high-end stainless steel interiors instead of plastic.
- Homeowners with spacious kitchens who might prefer an under-counter or built-in dishwasher.
Alternatives to RCA RDW3216
Joy Pebble DW8306
The Joy Pebble DW8306 is a compact countertop dishwasher designed for convenience. It offers six wash cycles, including Eco, Intensive, and Glass, giving users more cleaning flexibility. With a solid door and a lightweight build (26.4 lbs), it’s easy to move and install. It features hot air drying and 360° rotating spray arms for efficient cleaning. The faucet-only water intake mode simplifies setup, but the lack of a built-in tank may limit portability. Operating at 58 dB, it runs quieter than some competitors.
Learn more about this model by exploring our detailed Joy Pebble DW8306 Dishwasher Review.
Joy Pebble DW8306 Dishwasher
COMFEE MINILITE CDC17P0ABB
The COMFEE MINILITE CDC17P0ABB is a versatile compact dishwasher with 5 wash cycles, including Hygiene mode, which reaches 192°F for deep sanitization. It offers two water intake options—a built-in tank and faucet mode—making it flexible for different setups. The transparent viewing window and LED digital display enhance usability. However, it lacks a hot air drying system, relying instead on air refresh circulation to reduce moisture. Running at 62 dB, it’s on the louder side, but its 1.32-gallon (5L) water consumption per cycle makes it an efficient choice.
Read more about this model in our comprehensive COMFEE MINILITE CDC17P0ABB Dishwasher Review.
COMFEE MINILITE CDC17P0ABB Dishwasher
Farberware FDW05WHA
The Farberware FDW05WHA is an efficient, portable countertop dishwasher with five wash cycles, including a Baby Care mode for sterilizing bottles. It operates at a quiet 54 dB, making it one of the quieter options available. It has a built-in water tank and faucet connection, making it great for small kitchens or RVs. With a 1.32-gallon (5L) water consumption per cycle, it offers efficiency, but it lacks a delay start timer and uses residual heat drying instead of hot air drying.
Discover all the details in our thorough Farberware FDW05WHA Dishwasher Review.
Farberware FDW05WHA Dishwasher
Final Thoughts on RCA RDW3216 Dishwasher Review
The RCA RDW3216 is a compact and efficient countertop dishwasher designed for small spaces. With five wash cycles, including a Hygiene mode for high-temperature sanitization, it provides reliable cleaning for everyday dishes and baby bottles. Hot air drying and Air Refresh help reduce moisture buildup, while the delay start timer and touch control panel make operation effortless. Though it lacks Energy Star certification and a built-in water softener, its water efficiency and ease of installation make it a solid choice for apartment dwellers, couples, and RV owners.
If you’re looking for a space-saving dishwasher with strong cleaning power, the RCA RDW3216 is worth considering. Check it out today and see how it fits your kitchen needs.
RCA RDW3216 Dishwasher
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How many place settings does the RCA RDW3216 dishwasher have?
The RCA RDW3216 has 2 place settings, making it ideal for small households, apartments, or RV owners with limited space.
Does the RCA RDW3216 have a built-in water tank?
Yes, it supports two water intake modes: a built-in tank for manual filling and a faucet connection for direct water supply.
What drying mechanism does this dishwasher use?
It features hot air drying and an Air Refresh function, which circulates fresh air for 72 hours to prevent odors.
How much water does it use per cycle?
The RCA RDW3216 consumes 6 liters (1.59 gallons) per cycle, making it a water-efficient option compared to many countertop dishwashers.
Is the RCA RDW3216 dishwasher noisy?
It operates at 62 dB, which is comparable to a normal conversation. It’s not the quietest model, but it remains manageable.
Can I wash baby bottles in this dishwasher?
Yes, the Hygiene cycle reaches 162°F (72°C), making it suitable for sanitizing baby bottles and heavily soiled dishes.
Does this dishwasher support Wi-Fi or smart home assistants?
No, the RCA RDW3216 does not support Wi-Fi connectivity or integration with smart home assistants like Alexa or Google Assistant.
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Delve into a comprehensive journey encompassing everything from the fundamentals of troubleshooting to mastering different dishwasher models and optimizing your loading strategy. Start your journey to become an expert in dishwasher management with us! Dive into our Dishwasher Guides: Your Comprehensive Resource on Dishwasher Use and Maintenance.
