A comparative noise level analysis of countertop dishwashers shows that nearly half (46%) operate in the 54 to 58 dB range, while only 1% fall into the ultra-quiet 34 to 38 dB category (see the comparative chart). The HAMILTON BEACH HBDW3208 is one of those rare models, offering exceptionally quiet performance that sets it apart. Along with low noise, it delivers 6 wash cycles, including Heavy, Normal, Eco, Glass, Speed, and Rinse, and uses just 7.57 liters (2.0 gallons) of water in a normal cycle, making it both efficient and compact.
Read on to discover why the HAMILTON BEACH HBDW3208 is a standout option for quiet kitchens, or check out our Overview Summary below for a quick verdict and pricing history.
Table of Contents
Overview Summary
Performance Indicators:
HAMILTON BEACH HBDW3208 Price History:
Pros:
- Compact countertop design
- Energy Star certified
- 2.0 gallons per cycle
- Ultra-quiet at 34 dB
- Six wash cycles
- Heated drying system
- Stainless steel finish
- 6 place setting capacity
Cons:
- No child lock
- Manual filter cleaning
- No auto door drying
- Not Wi-Fi enabled
- Single fixed rack
HAMILTON BEACH HBDW3208 in Context: How It Ranks in Today’s Market
💰 Price Tag Breakdown: Affordable Picks to High-End Options
The HAMILTON BEACH HBDW3208 falls in the $205 to $255 bracket, covering 19% of countertop dishwashers. This places it slightly below the most saturated $256 to $306 range (38%), giving it a more affordable edge compared to mid-range competitors.
While budget options under $204 cover only 9% of models, this unit manages to stay competitively priced without dipping into the very low-cost segment. It balances affordability with solid functionality, appealing to value-conscious buyers.
🔇 Quiet Performance: Measuring the Noise Output
Operating at 34 to 38 dB, the HAMILTON BEACH HBDW3208 sits in the rarest ultra-quiet category, representing just 1% of countertop dishwashers. This gives it a remarkable advantage, as most models fall between 54 and 58 dB (46%).
For buyers prioritizing a peaceful kitchen, this dishwasher clearly stands out. Competitors clustered in the 49 to 53 dB range (30%) or the louder 59 to 62 dB group (13%) cannot match this level of near-silent performance.
⚖️ From Featherweight to Heavyweight: Placing It on the Scale
At 35.5 pounds, the HAMILTON BEACH HBDW3208 falls into the 31.9 to 39.6 lb range, which includes 24% of models. This positions it as a mid-weight option that is easy enough to move yet heavy enough to stay stable during operation.
The most common categories are 24.2 to 31.8 lb and 39.7 to 47.3 lb, each covering 34% of dishwashers. Sitting between them, this unit strikes a balance between portability and sturdiness.
🍽️ How Many Dishes Can It Handle? Market-Wide Capacity Comparison
With a 6-place setting capacity, the HAMILTON BEACH HBDW3208 is in the largest category, covering 36% of countertop dishwashers. This makes it one of the more practical choices for small families or couples who need slightly more room than 4-place models.
By comparison, 4-place setting dishwashers make up 34% of the market, while smaller 2-place units cover 21%. The HBDW3208’s capacity ensures it competes in the most popular segment, offering everyday usability.
🔄 Cleaning Modes Compared: How This Dishwasher Stacks Up
Offering 6 wash cycles, the HAMILTON BEACH HBDW3208 sits in a category that includes 24% of countertop dishwashers. This makes it more versatile than the 5-cycle group, which dominates with 43%.
At the same time, it competes well against 7-cycle models (26%) by providing slightly fewer options without overwhelming the user. Its balance of functionality makes it suitable for most households without straying into complexity or over-simplification.
HAMILTON BEACH HBDW3208 Dishwasher
Analyzing the HAMILTON BEACH HBDW3208: Performance, Features, and Ratings
The awesome team at WashDryDazzle took the HAMILTON BEACH HBDW3208 countertop dishwasher for a spin just for you. We wanted to see if it’s as dazzling as it sounds. Our goal? To help you make the best choice for your kitchen.
💵 Price and Design (4.6/5)
With a price tag of around $208, the HAMILTON BEACH HBDW3208 is a solid option for buyers who want affordability paired with dependable quality. Its compact footprint, measuring 19.8 inches in height, 22 inches in width, and 23 inches in depth, makes it a practical fit for most countertops. Weighing 35.5 pounds, it’s light enough to handle but sturdy in construction. The clean white finish and digital touch display give it a modern yet simple look that blends seamlessly into everyday kitchens.
| Price | $208 |
| Height | 19.8 inches |
| Width | 22 inches |
| Depth | 23 inches |
| Weight | 35.5 pounds |
| Color | White |
| Transparent Viewing Window / Solid Door | Solid Door |
| Display | Digital Display |
| Touch or Tactile Controls | Touch |
| 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 (4.7/5)
Equipped with six wash cycles, including Heavy, Normal, Eco, Glass, Speed, and Rinse, this dishwasher adapts well to a variety of cleaning needs. The targeted 360° rotating spray arms ensure thorough coverage, while the glass cycle is especially handy for delicate items. A three-layer, removable filter system keeps water clean, although it requires manual maintenance. For better performance, the entire filter system should be cleaned at least once a week. The Heavy cycle reaches around 158 °F (70 °C), offering hygienic cleaning results.
| Number of Wash Cycles | 6 (Heavy, Normal, Eco, Glass, Speed, Rinse) |
| Specialized Cycles | 1 (Glass Cycle) |
| Number of Spray Systems/Points | 2 Spray Arms (Upper & Lower) |
| Targeted washing zones | Targeted Cleaning with 360° Rotating Spray Arms (both arms), Reaching Every Corner. |
| Filter type (self-cleaning or manual) | Manual cleaning with a 3-layer removable filter system |
| Sanitization | Heavy cycle reaches higher temp (~70°C) for better hygiene.” |
| Delay Start Timer | Yes |
💨 Drying Performance (4.4/5)
The HAMILTON BEACH HBDW3208 relies on a heated dry system to remove moisture from dishes after each cycle. Heat air drying uses heated air to evaporate moisture from dishes after the wash cycle is complete. During the drying process, warm air circulates inside the dishwasher to ensure plates, utensils, and other items are thoroughly dried and ready for immediate use. While it lacks fresh air circulation or auto door opening, it does support rinse aid, which helps reduce water spots and boosts overall drying results.
| Hot Air Drying / Heat Drying | heated drying |
| Fresh Air Circulation for Moisture and Odor | Heated Dry System uses internal heat to reduce moisture |
| Auto Door Opening for Natural Drying | No |
| Rinse aid availability and indicator | Yes |
🔕 Noise Level (5/5)
This model is one of the quietest dishwashers available, operating at just 34 dB. To put the 34 dB dishwasher noise level into perspective, standing about five feet away from the dishwasher would sound similar to a soft whisper or the gentle rustling of pages turning in a quiet room, which is so silent that it could easily blend into the background, offering an almost unnoticeable presence in your home. In comparison, competitors such as the COMFEE CDC22P2AWW at 49 dB, the EdgeStar DWP62WH at 52.3 dB, and the Honeywell HCTDS1W at 48 dB are significantly louder.
⚡ Energy Efficiency (4.6/5)
The HAMILTON BEACH HBDW3208 is Energy Star certified (Energy Star-certified appliances meet strict energy efficiency standards set by the EPA, using less energy and reducing environmental impact), which means it performs efficiently while reducing electricity costs. A Normal Cycle with Heat Drying, running 169 minutes, would use approximately 0.72 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity. To put this into perspective, this is similar to running a 1-ton AC on full load for about 43 minutes. Energy consumption for running this dishwasher daily on Normal Cycle with Heat Drying for 30 days = 0.72 kWh/day x 30 days = 21.6 kWh/month. The inclusion of a delay start timer adds flexibility, letting you schedule cycles during off-peak hours to save even more energy.
| Energy Star rating | Yes |
| Estimated Energy Consumption / Wattage | 21.6 kWh/month for Daily use of Normal Cycle with Heat Drying |
| Voltage Required | 120 Volts |
| Delay Start Timer | Yes |
💧 Water Usage (4.7/5)
The HAMILTON BEACH HBDW3208 is very efficient, using just 7.57 liters (2.0 gallons) per normal cycle. In comparison, competitors like the COMFEE CDC22P2AWW and EdgeStar DWP62WH consume approximately 10.8 liters (2.85 gallons) per cycle, and the Honeywell HCTDS1W also uses the same amount. This lower water usage means you’ll save both water and utility costs over time. The unit connects easily through a quick-connect faucet adapter, making installation straightforward for most households.
| Water Consumption (Per Cycle) | 7.57 Liters (2.0 Gallons) in Normal Cycle |
| Installation Requirement / Water Intake Modes | Connects via a quick-connect faucet adapter |
🕒 Cycle Time (4.5/5)
This dishwasher provides a flexible range of cycle times to suit different needs. The Heavy program lasts 100 to 120 minutes, while the Normal program typically completes in 90 to 110 minutes. ECO cycles last 120 to 140 minutes for efficient washing, and the Glass cycle takes 70 to 80 minutes for delicate items. A Speed cycle finishes in about 30 minutes, while a simple Rinse takes just 10 to 15 minutes. For a deeper dive into specific wash cycles, please refer to our section: “Specialized Wash Cycles.”
🍽️ Loading Capacity (4.3/5)
Designed with a six-place setting (A Place Setting is defined further down in this section), the HAMILTON BEACH HBDW3208 can accommodate dinner plates up to 10.25 inches in diameter. It also includes a cutlery basket for organizing utensils. While it lacks adjustable racks or fold-down tines, the setup is straightforward and efficient for small households or apartments with limited space.
| Number of Place Settings | 6 place settings |
| Dish or Plate Size A Rack can Accumulate | 10.25 inches |
| Number of Racks | 1 Rack |
| Special Utensil Holders or Baskets | cutlery basket |
6 – 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 6-place setting dishwasher is designed to wash 6 dinner plates, 6 dessert plates, 6 soup bowls, 6 cups, 6 glasses, and 6 sets of cutlery in one cycle.
In reality, the exact combination can vary due to item sizes and shapes. For example, you might fit 6 dinner plates, 6 dessert plates, 4 soup bowls, 4 cups, 2 glasses, and 6 sets of cutlery comfortably in a 6-place setting dishwasher.
🔒 Safety Features (4.2/5)
For safe use, this model comes with a leak protection sensor that helps detect and prevent overflow issues. The dishwasher is also equipped with a non-slip base, ensuring it stays securely in place during operation. However, it’s important not to place the unit on unstable or uneven surfaces. For safe operation, avoid placing the dishwasher near gas or electric burners. Additionally, avoid using extension cords or adapter plugs.
| Child Lock – Safety Feature | No |
| Leak or Overflow Protection – Safety Feature | leak protection sensor |
| Non-Slipping Base | Yes |
🛠 Reliability and Durability (4.5/5)
Built with a stainless steel finish, the HAMILTON BEACH HBDW3208 offers durability, a sleek appearance, and resistance to high heat and moisture. Stainless Steel is a strong, corrosion-resistant material prized for its durability, sleek appearance, and ability to withstand high temperatures and exposure to moisture without rusting or degrading. The dishwasher is sturdy, but avoid overloading the top surface with heavy items. 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 under the 1-year warranty.
HAMILTON BEACH HBDW3208 Wash Modes and How They Work
With specialized wash programs, the BEACH HBDW3208 mini dishwasher is built to tackle various levels of grime and leave your dishes sparkling. Here’s a quick overview of its wash cycles:
| Cycle Name | Cycle Selection | Description | Detergent (g) | Running Time (min) | Energy (kWh) | Water (L) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Heavy | For the heaviest soiled loads | Pre-wash, Pre-wash (122°F), Wash (131°F), Rinse, Rinse (155°F), Drying | 18 | 100 | 0.49 | 12.5 |
| Normal | For normally soiled loads | Pre-wash, Pre-wash, Wash (125°F), Rinse, Rinse (149°F), Drying | 18 | 110 | 0.36 | 10.8 |
| ECO | For lightly soiled loads | Pre-wash, Pre-wash (122°F), Wash (122°F), Rinse, Rinse (140°F), Drying | 18 | 75 | 0.27 | 10 |
| Glass | For lightly soiled loads and glass | Pre-wash, Pre-wash (122°F), Rinse, Rinse (140°F), Drying | 15 | 70 | 0.28 | 8.5 |
| Baby Care | For lightly soiled loads, baby bottles | Pre-wash, Pre-wash (122°F), Wash (131°F), Rinse, Rinse, Rinse (158°F), Drying | 18 | 90 | 0.51 | 12.5 |
| Speed | Shorter wash for lightly soiled loads | Pre-wash, Pre-wash (122°F), Wash (122°F), Rinse, Rinse (131°F) | 15 | 45 | 0.31 | 10.5 |
| Rinse | Use for rinsing dishes | Pre-wash, Main wash | N/A | 24 | 0.03 | 4.3 |
The Pros and Cons of Using the HAMILTON BEACH HBDW3208
Pros
- Compact countertop design fits in limited kitchen spaces
- Affordable price of $208 with solid performance
- Energy Star certified for lower electricity usage
- Consumes only 2.0 gallons (7.57 liters) per normal cycle
- Ultra-quiet at just 34 dB noise level
- Six wash cycles, including a specialized glass program
- Heavy cycle reaches ~158 °F (70 °C) for hygiene
- Heated drying ensures dishes are ready for immediate use
- Digital touch controls with cycle status indicator
- Delay start timer adds scheduling flexibility
- Two rotating spray arms cover every corner effectively
- Stainless steel finish is durable and corrosion-resistant
- Includes a cutlery basket for organized utensil washing
- Quick-connect faucet adapter makes installation simple
- Rinse aid availability with an indicator prevents water spots
- 6 place setting capacity accommodates plates up to 10.25 inches
Cons
- No child lock safety feature
- Requires manual cleaning of the filter system
- No auto door opening for natural drying
- Lacks a fresh air circulation function
- Not Wi-Fi enabled or compatible with smart assistants
- Single rack without adjustable height or fold-down tines
- Warranty is limited to one year with restricted coverage
HAMILTON BEACH HBDW3208 Dishwasher
Ideal Users of HAMILTON BEACH HBDW3208 Dishwasher
- Small families or couples who want everyday dishwashing handled without hassle.
- Apartment dwellers are seeking a compact dishwasher that doesn’t occupy too much kitchen space.
- Busy professionals who prefer setting a cycle and forgetting about dishes until they’re clean.
- Eco-conscious individuals who value water and energy efficiency in daily routines.
- Parents who want hygienic cleaning cycles for safe and spotless dishes.
- Students in shared housing who benefit from organized, quick cleaning.
- RV and boat owners who need a portable yet practical dishwasher.
- People who appreciate ultra-quiet operation that blends into the background.
- Rental property owners are seeking a reliable, low-maintenance appliance for tenants.
Who Isn’t the Right Fit for HAMILTON BEACH HBDW3208 Dishwasher
- Large families require a dishwasher that can handle multiple loads simultaneously.
- Commercial kitchens or frequent hosts require heavy-duty dishwashing performance.
- Households with small children who would prefer built-in child lock protection.
- People living in areas with hard water need a built-in softener to prevent mineral buildup.
- Tech-savvy buyers who want Wi-Fi connectivity or smart assistant integration.
- Homeowners with spacious kitchens who prefer full-size built-in models.
- Shoppers seeking features like auto door opening or fresh air drying.
- Style-conscious users who want modern glass-front or panel-ready designs.
- People who rely on oversized cookware that may not fit compact racks.
- Buyers who prefer longer warranty coverage beyond a single year.
HAMILTON BEACH HBDW3208 Not for You? Try These Options
COMFEE CDC22P2AWW
The COMFEE CDC22P2AWW is a countertop dishwasher that strikes a balance between functionality and practicality. It offers 6 place settings and a compact design while delivering eight versatile wash cycles, including Baby Care and Mini-Party. With its 49 dB operation, Energy Star certification, and manual filter system, it provides efficiency and reliability. Its condensation drying is less advanced than heat drying, but the cycle options make it flexible for different dishwashing needs.
Read more about this model in our comprehensive COMFEE CDC22P2AWW Dishwasher Review.
COMFEE CDC22P2AWW Dishwasher
EdgeStar DWP62WH
The EdgeStar DWP62WH brings a sleek white design with digital touch controls and a 6-place setting capacity. It features six wash cycles, including a dedicated Baby Care option, and supports high-temperature sanitization at 70 °C (158 °F). With a stainless steel tub and a hot air drying system, it provides durability and effective drying. However, at 52.3 dB, it runs louder than many competitors, making it less ideal for noise-sensitive households.
Learn more about this model by exploring our detailed EdgeStar DWP62WH Dishwasher Review.
EdgeStar DWP62WH Dishwasher
Honeywell HCTDS1W
The Honeywell HCTDS1W is a sturdy, Energy Star-certified countertop dishwasher offering 6 place settings and six wash programs, including a 90-minute quick cycle. Its stainless steel interior, digital push-button controls, and 48 dB operation provide a reliable balance of quietness and efficiency. Residual heat drying is less robust than advanced systems, but the overall design focuses on dependable daily performance. A leak protection feature adds an extra layer of peace of mind for users.
Discover all the details in our thorough Honeywell HCTDS1W Dishwasher Review.
Honeywell HCTDS1W Dishwasher
Last Words on HAMILTON BEACH HBDW3208 Dishwasher Review
The HAMILTON BEACH HBDW3208 proves that small appliances can deliver big results. With ultra-quiet operation at just 34 dB, an Energy Star rating, and a compact design that doesn’t sacrifice capacity, it stands out as a reliable choice for everyday dishwashing. Six versatile wash cycles, effective heated drying, and a stainless steel interior give it both functionality and durability. While it lacks extras like Wi-Fi or a child lock, its value and performance are hard to ignore. If you’re looking for a quiet, efficient, and affordable countertop dishwasher, this model deserves a spot in your kitchen.
HAMILTON BEACH HBDW3208 Dishwasher
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How quiet is the HAMILTON BEACH HBDW3208 during operation?
It operates at just 34 dB, which is about as quiet as a soft whisper.
How many place settings does this dishwasher hold?
It can fit 6 place settings, including dinner plates up to 10.25 inches in diameter.
Does this dishwasher have an Energy Star rating?
Yes, it is Energy Star certified, ensuring efficient energy usage and lower utility bills.
What drying system does the HBDW3208 use?
It uses a heated drying system that evaporates moisture and works with rinse aid to reduce water spots.
How much water does it use per normal cycle?
A normal cycle consumes about 2.0 gallons (7.57 liters), making it very water efficient.
Does the dishwasher include safety features?
It comes with a leak protection sensor and non-slip base but does not include a child lock.
Who is the HBDW3208 best suited for?
It’s ideal for small families, couples, or apartment dwellers who want quiet, efficient dishwashing without taking much space.
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