A comparative noise level analysis of built-in dishwashers shows that most models, around 34 percent, fall within the 42dB to 45dB range, making quiet performance a key buying factor for modern kitchens (see the comparative chart). The Bosch SHPM78Z55N dishwasher review highlights a built-in, under-counter design paired with 8 versatile wash cycles, including Heavy, Auto, and Speed60®, and an efficient 2.3-gallon water capacity for the Normal cycle, balancing performance and conservation for everyday use.
Read on to discover why the Bosch SHPM78Z55N is a smart choice for quiet, efficient kitchens, or check out our Overview Summary below for a quick verdict and pricing history.
Table of Contents
Overview Summary
Performance Indicators:
Bosch SHPM78Z55N Price History:
Pros:
- 42 dB ultra-quiet operation
- CrystalDry™ zeolite drying system
- 16 place setting capacity
- 8 versatile wash cycles
- 2.3 gallons per Normal cycle
- PrecisionWash® targeted cleaning
Cons:
- No Wi-Fi connectivity
- No built-in water softener
- Manual filter maintenance
Why the Bosch SHPM78Z55N Stands Out in the Market
💰 Visualizing Value: A Breakdown of Market Price Ranges
The Bosch SHPM78Z55N is positioned in the $1,320 to $1,629 price range, a category that represents about 9 percent of built-in dishwashers. This places it clearly in the premium segment, above the most common pricing brackets of $390 to $699 (37 percent) and $700 to $1,009 (35 percent), where most buyers tend to shop.
Higher-priced models are relatively rare in this market. Only 1 percent fall into the $1,630 to $1,939 and $1,940 to $2,250 ranges. This pricing reflects a focus on advanced features, quieter performance, and premium build quality rather than broad budget appeal.
🔇 Decibel Duel: Comparing Noise Levels Across Top Models
Operating at 42 dB, the Bosch SHPM78Z55N falls into the 42 dB to 45 dB range, which includes the largest share of built-in dishwashers at 34 percent. This places it in the most popular quiet category, aligning with what many homeowners expect for modern, open-kitchen environments.
Quieter models in the 38 dB to 41 dB range account for just 4 percent, making them relatively rare. On the louder end, 29 percent of dishwashers fall into the 50 dB to 53 dB bracket, while only 1 percent exceed 58 dB, highlighting how this model maintains a strong competitive edge in low-noise performance.
⚖️ Where It Stands: Dishwasher Weight vs. the Competition
Weighing within the 80.7 lb to 98.4 lb category, the Bosch SHPM78Z55N sits in the most common weight range, which represents about 38 percent of built-in dishwashers. This positions it as a solid, mid-weight model that balances sturdiness with manageable installation requirements.
Lighter dishwashers in the 45 lb to 62.7 lb range make up 15 percent of the market, offering easier handling but potentially less robust construction. Heavier units above 116.3 lb are far less common at just 7 percent or lower, suggesting most manufacturers favor this balanced weight class.
🍽️ Dinnerware Load Test: Ranking Dishwashers by Capacity
With a 16 place setting capacity, this dishwasher falls into the 15 to 16 place setting category, which leads the market at 35 percent. This places it in the most popular group, making it well-suited for families and households that regularly handle larger loads.
The next most common category is 13 to 14 place settings at 28 percent, offering slightly less capacity. Smaller models with 7 to 8 place settings represent only 17 percent, while 11 to 12 place setting dishwashers are even less common at 9 percent, highlighting a clear market preference for higher-capacity designs.
🔄 Wash Cycle Comparison: How This Model Matches Up
The Bosch SHPM78Z55N offers 8 wash cycles, placing it in a category that represents about 12 percent of built-in dishwashers. This positions it above the most common configuration of 6 wash cycles, which dominates the market at 50 percent and reflects a standard level of versatility.
Models with 5 wash cycles account for 17 percent, while those with 7 cycles make up 10 percent. Dishwashers offering 9 to 10 cycles are rare at just 4 percent, showing that this model sits in a higher-function segment without venturing into niche, over-specialized territory.
Bosch SHPM78Z55N Dishwasher
Unpacking the Bosch SHPM78Z55N: Ratings and Key Specs
The awesome team at WashDryDazzle took the Bosch SHPM78Z55N Under-counter 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 (4.5/5)
Priced around $1500, the Bosch SHPM78Z55N sits firmly in the premium built-in dishwasher category, aimed at homeowners who value refined design and quiet performance. Its stainless steel finish pairs well with modern kitchens, while the top control panel keeps the exterior clean and uncluttered.
The digital display with InfoLight® projects a subtle light onto the floor to show when the cycle is running, which feels both practical and elegant. At 34 inches high and 24 inches wide, it fits standard under-counter spaces, though professional installation is recommended for best results.
| Price | $1500 |
| Height | 34 inches |
| Width | 24 Inches |
| Depth | 24 inches |
| Weight | 92 lbs |
| Color | Stainless Steel |
| Control Panel Location | Top Control |
| Display | Digital display with InfoLight® technology |
| Touch or Tactile Controls | Touch Control |
| Cycle status/progress indicator on display | End-of-cycle audible signal with InfoLight® visual status indicator |
| Wi-Fi Enabled (Smart Dishwasher) | N/A |
| Compatibility with home assistants (e.g., Alexa, Google Assistant) | N/A |
✨ Cleaning Performance (4.7/5)
With 8 versatile wash cycles, including Heavy, Auto, Eco, Glass, Normal, and Speed60®, this dishwasher adapts well to everything from delicate glassware to heavily soiled cookware. The PrecisionWash® technology uses targeted spray arms to focus water where it is needed most, while the Sanitize option raises the water temperature to 167 °F (75 °C) to help eliminate bacteria.
CrystalDry™ and ExtraScrub enhance performance on plastics and tough, baked-on food. It uses a removable 3-stage manual filter, and for better performance, the entire filter system should be cleaned at least once a week.
| Number of Wash Cycles | 8 (Heavy, Auto, Eco, Glass, Normal, Speed60®, Express, Rinse) |
| Specialized Cycles | Sanitize, CrystalDry |
| Number of Options / Functions | 6 (Half Load, Delicate, Sanitize, CrystalDry™, Eco, ExtraScrub) |
| Number of Spray Arms | 3 |
| Filter type (self-cleaning or manual/Removeable Filter) | Removable 3-stage manual filter, requires periodic cleaning. |
| Sanitization | Sanitize option |
| Delay Start Timer | Yes (up to 24 hours) |
| Targeted washing zones | PrecisionWash® Tecnology(Smart sensor-based wash system) |
| Soil sensor capability (Turbidity Sensor) | Yes (In Auto cycle) with PrecisionWash® sensor |
| Option / Function # 01 | Half Load: Optimizes water and energy use when washing small or lightly loaded racks. |
| Option / Function # 02 | Delicate: Uses lower temperature and gentler washing to protect fragile dishes and glassware |
| Option / Function # 03 | Sanitize: Raises water temperature to eliminate bacteria and provide hygienic cleaning |
| Option / Function # 04 | CrystalDry™: Uses zeolite minerals to absorb moisture and release heat for superior drying, even on plastics. |
| Option / Function # 05 | Eco: Reduces water and energy consumption by using lower temperatures and longer cycle times. |
| Option / Function # 06 | ExtraScrub: Increases spray pressure and temperature in the lower rack for tough, baked-on food. |
💨 Drying Performance (4.8/5)
The Bosch SHPM78Z55N uses CrystalDry® (zeolite drying) with PureDry® to deliver impressive drying performance, even on plastic items. Heat drying uses an internal system to actively warm the air inside the dishwasher after the wash cycle, speeding up moisture evaporation but consuming more energy than passive methods.
Zeolite drying uses natural mineral-based technology to absorb moisture and release heat, warming the air and enhancing drying within Bosch’s closed PureDry® system. A rinse aid dispenser is also included to help reduce water spots and improve overall drying performance.
| Hot Air Drying / Heat Drying | CrystalDry® (Zeolite drying) with PureDry® |
| Fresh Air Circulation for Moisture and Odor | Moisture is removed using CrystalDry™ zeolite technology. |
| Auto Door Opening for Natural Drying | No |
| Rinse aid availability | Yes |
| Built-in Water Softener (For Hard Water) | N/A |
🔕 Noise Level (4.9/5)
Operating at just 42 dB, this dishwasher is designed for open kitchens and quiet homes. To put the 42 dB dishwasher noise level into perspective, standing about five feet away from the dishwasher would be about as loud as a whisper or the faint rustling of leaves on a calm day.
It is so quiet that it might blend into the background, barely noticeable unless you focus on it. In comparison, competitors like the Cafe CDT845P4NW2 at 45 dB are slightly louder; the Fisher & Paykel DD24DV2T9N matches it at 42 dB, while the ZLINE DWV-BLM-24 at 51 dB is noticeably louder in everyday use.
⚡ Energy Efficiency (4.6/5)
This model is energy-efficient and designed to reduce electricity usage while maintaining strong performance (Energy Star-certified appliances meet strict energy efficiency standards set by the EPA, using less energy and reducing environmental impact).
A Normal Wash Cycle with CrystalDry® (Zeolite drying) and PureDry® running for 146 minutes would use approximately 1.25 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity, similar to running a 1-ton AC at full load for about 75 minutes. Energy consumption for running this dishwasher daily on Normal Wash Cycle with CrystalDry® for 30 days = 1.25 kWh/day x 30 days = 37.53 kWh/month. The delay start feature allows you to schedule cycles during off-peak energy hours.
| Energy Star rating | Energy-efficient |
| Estimated Energy Consumption / Wattage | 37.5 kWh/month for Daily use of Normal Wash Cycle with CrystalDry® (Zeolite drying) with PureDry® |
| Voltage Required | 120 volts |
| Delay Start Timer | Yes (up to 24 hours) |
💧 Water Usage (4.7/5)
The Bosch SHPM78Z55N uses just 2.3 gallons (8.71 liters) per wash in the Normal cycle, making it highly water-efficient. In comparison, the Cafe CDT845P4NW2 consumes about 3.6 gallons (13.63 liters) per cycle, the Fisher & Paykel DD24DV2T9N uses roughly 3.28 gallons (12.48 liters), and the ZLINE DWV-BLM-24 runs closer to 3.4 gallons (12.87 liters). This lower water usage helps reduce utility bills while still delivering reliable cleaning performance.
| Water Consumption (Per Cycle) | 2.3 gallons (8.71 liters) per wash in Normal cycle |
🕒 Cycle Time (4.5/5)
This dishwasher offers flexible cycle lengths to match your schedule, ranging from a quick 9-minute Rinse cycle to a full Heavy wash that can run up to 135 minutes. Everyday cleaning typically falls in the 100-135 minute range on Normal and Auto cycles, while Speed60® completes a full wash in about 60 minutes. For light loads, the Express cycle finishes in just 30 minutes. For a deeper dive into specific wash cycles, please refer to our section: “Specialized Wash Cycles.”
🍽️ Loading Capacity (4.6/5)
With a generous 16 Place Setting (defined below), this dishwasher is well-suited for large families or frequent entertaining. It can accommodate plates up to 12.6 inches, making it easy to load oversized dinnerware and cookware. The 3 EasyGlide™ rack system and Double Flex silverware basket with cover help keep utensils organized and stable throughout the wash, improving both cleaning coverage and overall loading convenience.
| Number of Place Settings | 16 Place Settings |
| Dish or Plate Size: A Rack can Accumulate | 12.6 Inches |
| Number of Racks | 3 EasyGlide™ rack system |
| Special Utensil Holders or Baskets | The Double Flex silverware basket with cover |
| Adjustable height of Rack | Adjustable top rack (RackMatic® system), fold-down tines on both racks with FlexSpace™ Tines. |
16 – 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 16-place setting dishwasher is designed to wash 16 dinner plates, 16 dessert plates, 16 soup bowls, 16 cups, 16 glasses, and 16 sets of cutlery in one cycle.
In reality, the exact combination can vary due to item sizes and shapes. For example, you might fit 16 dinner plates, 16 dessert plates, 14 soup bowls, 14 cups, 12 glasses, and 16 sets of cutlery comfortably in a 16-place setting dishwasher.
🔒 Safety Features (4.5/5)
The Bosch SHPM78Z55N includes a Control Lock feature to prevent accidental button presses during operation, which is especially useful in homes with children. The dishwasher is equipped with a non-slip base, ensuring it stays securely in place during operation. Do not place or use the machine on an unstable or uneven platform. For safe operation, avoid placing the dishwasher near gas or electric burners. Also, do not use extension cords or adapter plugs.
| Child Lock – Safety Feature | Control Lock |
| Leak or Overflow Protection – Safety Feature | AquaStop® (Leak protection system) |
| Non-Slipping Base | Yes |
🛠 Reliability and Durability (4.6/5)
Built with a stainless steel exterior and an interior tub, this dishwasher is designed to handle heat, moisture, and daily wear and tear. 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. It comes with a 1-year limited warranty. To keep coverage valid, follow the manual and avoid misuse, mishandling, accidents, or non-household use.
| Finish Type / Material | Stainless Steel |
| Interior Tub Material | Stainless Steel |
| Warranty Duration | 1 Year Limited Warranty |
Bosch SHPM78Z55N Wash Cycle Guide for Every Need
With specialized wash programs, the Bosch SHPM78Z55N Fix dishwasher is built to tackle various levels of grime and leave your dishes sparkling. Here’s a quick overview of its wash cycles:
| Wash Cycle | When to Use | Cycle Time (minutes) | Detergent Quantity | Available Options | Water Usage (gallons per cycle) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Heavy Wash | Heavily soiled dishes, pots, pans, and items with baked-on grease or food residue | 110–135 | 3 tbsp (45 ml) | All | 4.9–6.4 |
| Normal Wash | Full loads of normally soiled dishes for everyday cleaning and drying | 100–135 | 1–1.75 tbsp (15–25 ml) | Delay, Half Load, Sanitize, ExtraScrub, CrystalDry™, Eco | 2.3–5.5 |
| Auto Wash | Mixed loads with different soil levels; sensors automatically adjust settings | 105–129 | 1–1.75 tbsp (15–25 ml) | All | 3.4–6.4 |
| Eco Wash | Lightly to normally soiled dishes when energy and water efficiency is the priority | 75–130 | 1 tbsp (15 ml) | All | 2.4–3.9 |
| Glass Wash | Delicate glassware and fragile items requiring gentle cleaning | 75–85 | 1 tbsp (15 ml) | Delay, Half Load, CrystalDry™ | 2.4–3.9 |
| Speed60® Wash | Freshly soiled dishes that need quick cleaning with drying | 60 | 1 tbsp (15 ml) | Delay | 3.8 |
| Express Wash | Lightly soiled dishes or glassware when time is limited | 30 | 1 tbsp (15 ml) | Delay | 2.8 |
| Rinse Cycle | Rinses dishes only to prevent odors before running a full wash cycle | 9 | None | Delay | 1.1 |
Detailed Pros And Cons Of Bosch SHPM78Z55N Built-In Dishwasher
Pros
- Operates at 42 dB, delivering whisper-quiet performance suitable for open kitchens and noise-sensitive environments.
- Uses CrystalDry™ zeolite technology with PureDry® to improve drying results, including better performance on plastic items.
- Offers 8 wash cycles, covering heavy, delicate, eco, quick, and rinse-only cleaning needs.
- Consumes only 2.3 gallons (8.71 liters) per Normal cycle, supporting water efficiency and reduced utility costs.
- Features: PrecisionWash® targeted spray arms to focus cleaning power on heavily soiled areas.
- Includes 16 place settings with a 3 EasyGlide™ rack system for flexible, high-capacity loading.
- Stainless steel tub and exterior improve durability, heat resistance, and long-term corrosion protection.
- InfoLight® floor projection clearly shows active cycle status without opening the door.
- Supports the sanitize option with high-temperature rinsing to improve hygiene and reduce bacteria.
- Delay start timer allows scheduling wash cycles during off-peak energy hours for better energy management.
Cons
- No Wi-Fi or smart home assistant compatibility for remote monitoring or app-based controls.
- The manual 3-stage filter requires regular cleaning to maintain consistent performance.
- No built-in water softener for households with hard water conditions.
- The auto door opening drying feature is not available for natural steam release.
Bosch SHPM78Z55N Dishwasher
Who Makes the Best Use of Bosch SHPM78Z55N Dishwasher
- Busy professionals who want a quiet, dependable kitchen helper that runs smoothly while they work or unwind at home.
- Families who value hygienic cleaning for everyday meals and peace of mind when washing baby bottles or shared dinnerware.
- Eco-conscious users looking to reduce water and energy waste without sacrificing reliable daily cleaning performance.
- Home cooks and meal preppers who deal with mixed loads and want consistent results after long cooking sessions.
- Style-conscious homeowners who prefer appliances that blend seamlessly into modern, polished kitchen designs.
- Glassware collectors who want gentle care for delicate items without worrying about clouding or damage.
- Noise-sensitive households that appreciate a calm kitchen environment during evening routines or late-night cycles.
- People who like scheduling chores ahead of time so that clean dishes are ready when their day begins.
- Small families or couples who want a built-in solution that fits naturally into their daily kitchen workflow.
Who Might Skip Bosch SHPM78Z55N Dishwasher
- Tech enthusiasts who want app control, smart notifications, or voice assistant integration in their kitchen appliances.
- Renters or temporary homeowners who need portable solutions that do not require permanent installation.
- Households in hard water areas that rely on built-in water treatment to prevent mineral buildup on dishes.
- People who dislike routine maintenance tasks and prefer systems that require minimal manual cleaning.
- Large families often need to run multiple heavy loads back to back during busy meal times.
- Frequent travelers or nomads who need compact, movable appliances for changing living spaces.
- Users who prefer ultra-fast cleaning cycles and minimal waiting time for every load.
- Commercial kitchens or professional chefs require heavy-duty, high-volume dishwashing performance.
Other Models Like Bosch SHPM78Z55N to Consider
Cafe CDT845P4NW2
The Cafe CDT845P4NW2 brings a stylish edge to the built-in dishwasher category with its matte white and brushed bronze finish that feels more like a design feature than an appliance. It offers strong cleaning performance through multiple targeted spray zones, bottle jets, and flexible wash options that adapt well to both delicate glassware and heavily soiled cookware. Its drying system combines adjustable heated drying with fan assistance for consistent results, while optional smart connectivity adds a layer of modern convenience for users who enjoy connected kitchen tools.
Read more about this model in our comprehensive Cafe CDT845P4NW2 Dishwasher Review.
Cafe CDT845P4NW2 Dishwasher
Fisher & Paykel DD24DV2T9N (Double DishDrawer™)
The Fisher & Paykel DD24DV2T9N stands out with its unique double drawer design, allowing you to run smaller loads independently or wash two different loads at once. Its quiet operation and smooth-touch controls make it feel refined in everyday use, while the built-in water softener and flexible rack system add thoughtful touches for delicate dishes and in hard-water areas. With smart connectivity and a modern interface, it blends innovation with practicality for kitchens that value both style and function.
Discover all the details in our thorough Fisher & Paykel DD24DV2T9N Dishwasher Review.
FIsher & Paykel DD24DV2T9N (Double DishDrawer™) Dishwasher
ZLINE DWV-BLM-24
The ZLINE DWV-BLM-24 Dishwasher is a full-size, 24-inch built-in model designed for families who want strong capacity and a sleek, modern kitchen look. With 15 place settings, a third rack, and a stainless steel tub, it handles large loads comfortably while maintaining durability. The 51 dB noise level keeps the operation relatively quiet, and features such as Smart Wash technology, multiple intensive cycles, and Turbo fan-assisted heated drying help deliver reliable cleaning and better moisture control. It feels like a practical blend of performance, space, and contemporary styling for everyday kitchen use.
Learn more about this model by exploring our detailed ZLINE DWV-BLM-24 Dishwasher Review.
ZLINE DWV-BLM-24 Dishwasher
Last Words on Bosch SHPM78Z55N Dishwasher Review
Wrapping it all together, the Bosch Built-In Dishwasher feels like a thoughtfully engineered dishwasher built for people who value quiet performance, refined design, and reliable everyday results. Its whisper-quiet operation, advanced zeolite drying, and flexible wash cycles make it easy to move from busy weeknight dinners to relaxed weekend gatherings without changing your routine.
Let it sit in the premium category; the blend of efficiency, durability, and polished finish helps justify the investment over time. If you want a built-in dishwasher that blends seamlessly into your kitchen and consistently delivers clean, dry dishes, this model is well worth considering for your next upgrade.
Bosch SHPM78Z55N Dishwasher
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How quiet is the Bosch SHPM78Z55N during everyday kitchen use?
It runs very quietly, blending into the background so conversations, TV, or work nearby stay comfortable.
Does this dishwasher dry plastic containers effectively after each wash?
Yes, the zeolite-based drying system helps remove moisture and improves drying results, even on plastic items.
Is the Bosch SHPM78Z55N suitable for large families and frequent dishwashing?
It handles larger daily loads comfortably, making it a practical choice for families who cook and clean often.
Can I schedule wash cycles to run later in the day or night?
Yes, the delay start feature lets you plan cycles ahead, so dishes finish when it best fits your routine.
Does this model work well in open kitchens or studio-style living spaces?
Its quiet operation makes it a good fit for open layouts where noise can easily travel.
Is professional installation really necessary for this dishwasher?
Professional installation helps ensure proper fitting, safe connections, and reliable performance over long-term daily use.
Are there good alternatives if I want different features or a lower price?
Yes, models from Cafe, Fisher and Paykel, and ZLINE offer different designs, connectivity options, and price ranges.
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Maintaining the cleanliness and performance of your dishwasher helps avoid breakdowns and ensures consistent results. Below are our top articles to keep your dishwasher functioning like new:
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- How to Remove and Prevent Mold in Your Dishwasher
- The Dishwasher’s Impact on Knives: What You Need to Know
- How to Prevent and Clean Cloudy Glasses
- 18 Common Dishwasher Mistakes You’re Likely Making Every Day!
Additional Reads to Enhance Your Dishwashing Knowledge
- Stainless Steel vs. Plastic Tub Dishwashers: Which is Better?
- What is a Dishwasher High Loop and Why You Need One
- How Do Countertop Dishwashers Work?
- Dishwasher Myths: 7 Shocking Truths You Must Know!
- Choosing the Right Dishwasher Size
WashDryDazzle is committed to delivering valuable insights and meticulously compiled lists, ensuring you discover the best products to meet your requirements. We also provide extensive dishwasher guides and expert education to help you maintain proper appliance care and management.
