A comparative noise level analysis of countertop dishwashers shows that most models fall within the 50 dB to 59 dB range, with 39% operating between 50 dB and 54 dB and another 39% between 55 dB and 59 dB (see the comparative chart). The Hermitlux HMX-TDJ04 (US HMX-DW04) dishwasher review becomes especially interesting here because this compact countertop model sits in the quieter 50 dB to 54 dB category. Designed for small kitchens and apartments, it features a 4-place-setting capacity and 5 wash cycles, including Standard, Quick, Strong, ECO, and Fruit modes, though its compact size may not suit larger households.
Read on to uncover why the Hermitlux HMX-TDJ04 (US HMX-DW04) could be your next must-have kitchen upgrade, or jump to our Overview Summary below for a quick verdict.
Table of Contents
Overview Summary
Performance Indicators:
Hermitlux HMX-TDJ04 Price History:
Pros:
- Energy Star certified
- Low 1.32-gallon (5-liter) water use
- Five versatile wash cycles
- 167 °F (75 °C) sanitizing Strong cycle
- PTC hot air drying system
- 73-hour ventilating storage mode
- Quiet 50 dB operation
- Dual water supply modes
Cons:
- No Wi-Fi connectivity
- No smart assistant compatibility
- Missing delay start timer
- No auto door opening
- No rinse aid indicator
- No built-in water softener
HERMITLUX HMX-TDJ04 (US HMX-DW04) – Competitive Edge in the Market
Affordable or Premium? A Look at Price Ranges
The Hermitlux HMX-TDJ04, priced at $270, falls within the $214 to $278 price range, which represents 31% of countertop dishwashers. This places it in the mid-range segment, slightly below the most common market bracket of $279 to $343 (39%). Its pricing gives it a practical edge for buyers seeking a balance between affordability and modern features.
Compared with lower-priced models in the $149 to $213 range (11%), the HMX-TDJ04 offers upgraded functionality and a more refined feature set. At the same time, it remains noticeably more affordable than premium countertop dishwashers priced above $344, which together account for only 19% of the market. This positioning makes the Hermitlux HMX-TDJ04 a competitive choice for shoppers wanting value without entering premium pricing territory.
How Quiet Is This Dishwasher? Noise Level Analysis
The Hermitlux HMX-TDJ04 operates at 50 dB, fitting into the 50–54 dB range, where 39% of countertop dishwashers are categorized. This makes it an excellent option for users prioritizing quiet operation in their homes.
Interestingly, another 39% of dishwashers operate between 55–59 dB, which, although still quiet, is louder than the Hermitlux model. This model’s low noise level ensures minimal disruption, enhancing its appeal.
Weight Insights: How Lightweight Is This Dishwasher?
Weighing 26.4 pounds, the Hermitlux HMX-TDJ04 falls within the 22.2–27.9 pounds range, accounting for 20% of the market, as shown in the Weight Analysis chart. Its lightweight build enhances portability, making it ideal for smaller spaces or mobile setups like RVs.
While the most common weight category is 39.5–45.2 pounds, comprising 28% of models, this lighter dishwasher is more manageable for users who need flexibility without sacrificing functionality.
Place Settings Capacity Compared to Competitors
With a 4-place setting capacity, the Hermitlux HMX-TDJ04 fits into the second most common category, which comprises 33% of countertop dishwashers, as shown in the Place Setting Analysis chart. This size makes it suitable for small families or single-person households.
In contrast, the 6-place setting category leads with 39% of the market. However, the compact size of this dishwasher strikes a balance between capacity and space-saving design, ensuring practicality.
Comparing Wash Cycles Across Dishwashers
The Hermitlux HMX-TDJ04 offers five wash cycles, placing it in the most common category, representing 54% of models in the Wash Cycle Analysis chart. This variety caters to diverse cleaning needs, from quick to heavy-duty cycles.
Compared to models with 6 or 7 wash cycles (each comprising 20% of the market), this dishwasher offers an optimal balance of functionality and simplicity, making it a reliable choice for everyday use.
HERMITLUX HMX-TDJ04 (US HMX-DW04) Performance Breakdown: Key Features and Ratings
Our incredible team at WashDryDazzle took a closer look at the Hermitlux HMX-TDJ04 for you. We’ve dived deep into its features and how it performs daily. Why? Because we want you to have all the fabulous details to make the best choice for your kitchen.
💵 Price and Design (4.4/5)
At around $270, the Hermitlux HMX-TDJ04 sits comfortably within the competitive countertop dishwasher market, appealing to buyers who want compact convenience without stretching their budget too far. Its white body paired with a glossy black control panel gives it a clean, modern appearance that blends nicely into apartments, dorms, and small kitchens.
Measuring 18.0″ H × 16.9″ W × 16.7″ D and weighing 26.4 pounds (12 kg), it is designed to save space while remaining portable enough for countertop use. The digital display and touch controls add a modern feel, although the lack of Wi-Fi or smart assistant compatibility may disappoint users seeking connected features.
| Price | $270 |
| Height | 18.0 inches |
| Width | 16.9 inches |
| Depth | 16.7 inches |
| Weight | 26.4 pounds (or 12 Kilograms) |
| Color | White Body with Glossy Black Control Panel |
| Transparent Viewing Window / Solid Door | Solid door |
| 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 Hermitlux HMX-TDJ04 delivers surprisingly capable cleaning for a compact countertop dishwasher. It offers five wash cycles, including Standard, Quick, Strong, ECO, and a specialized Fruit cycle for washing fruits and vegetables. Its cleaning system uses two spray arms with 360° rotation and 14 water ports, helping water reach dishes from multiple angles for targeted cleaning.
For tougher messes, the Strong cycle sanitizes at 167 °F (75 °C), making it useful for baby bottles, greasy cookware, and heavily soiled items. The dishwasher uses a removable cylinder filter, and for better performance, the entire filter system should be cleaned at least once a week.
| Number of Wash Cycles | 5 (Standard, Quick, Strong, ECO, Fruit) |
| Specialized Cycles | 1 (Fruit – For washing fruits & vegetables) |
| Number of Spray Systems/Points | 2 Spray Arms (Upper & Lower) |
| Targeted washing zones | Targeted Cleaning with 360° Rotating Spray Arm (with 14 water ports), Reaching Every Corner. |
| Filter type (self-cleaning or manual) | cylinder filter (Removable manual cleaning) |
| Sanitization | At 167℉, High Temperature sterilize the dishes in a strong cycle |
| Delay Start Timer | N/A |
💨 Drying Performance (4.5/5)
Drying is one area where the Hermitlux HMX-TDJ04 outperforms many compact countertop models. It uses PTC Hot Air Drying. PTC hot drying uses a self-regulating ceramic heater to generate warm air, helping evaporate moisture from dishes after washing. It adjusts its resistance as it heats, preventing overheating and making it a safer, more energy-efficient drying method than traditional heaters.
Alongside this system, the dishwasher supports 73 hours of ventilating storage. The Air Refresh function circulates fresh air or vents moist air after a wash cycle, operating in intervals to maintain freshness, prevent odors, and enhance drying performance. The absence of auto door opening and rinse aid may leave some moisture on plastics.
| Hot Air Drying / Heat Drying | PTC Hot Air Drying |
| Fresh Air Circulation for Moisture and Odor | Supports 73 hours of ventilating storage (automatic fresh air circulation in intervals) |
| Auto Door Opening for Natural Drying | No |
| Rinse aid availability and indicator | No |
🔕 Noise Level (4.7/5)
At 50 dB, the Hermitlux HMX-TDJ04 falls on the quieter side of the countertop dishwasher category. To put the 50 dB noise level into perspective, standing about five feet away from the dishwasher would sound similar to a quiet conversation or the gentle hum of a modern refrigerator, which would be noticeable when paying attention, but otherwise, it feels quiet.
In comparison, competitors such as the BLACK + DECKER BCD6W (55 dB) and SPT SD-2225DW (55 dB) run slightly louder, while the Danby DDW621WDB (52 dB) is closer but still somewhat noisier. For small homes or open kitchen spaces, this quieter performance is genuinely appealing.
⚡ Energy Efficiency (4.6/5)
The Hermitlux HMX-TDJ04 earns points for efficiency with its Energy Star certification (Energy Star-certified appliances meet strict energy efficiency standards set by the EPA, using less energy and reducing environmental impact) and 120-volt operation, making it easy to run in most homes. A Normal Cycle with PTC Hot Air Drying System, running 70 minutes, would use approximately 0.38 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity.
To put this in perspective, it is similar to running a 1-ton AC at full load for about 23 minutes. Energy consumption for running this dishwasher daily on Normal Cycle with PTC Hot Air Drying System for 30 days = 0.38 kWh/day × 30 days = 11.58 kWh/month. While it lacks a delay start timer, its overall power use remains impressively modest for daily dishwashing.
| Energy Star rating | Energy Star |
| Estimated Energy Consumption / Wattage | 11.6 kWh/month for Daily use of Normal Cycle with PTC Hot Air Drying System |
| Voltage Required | 120 Volts |
| Delay Start Timer | N/A |
💧 Water Usage (4.8/5)
The Hermitlux HMX-TDJ04 is impressively water-efficient, using just 5 liters (1.32 gallons) per wash on the Normal cycle. This makes it a smart option for small households and eco-conscious users. It also supports two water intake modes, allowing either a built-in tank or a faucet connection for easier installation. Compared with competitors like the BLACK + DECKER BCD6W, Danby DDW621WDB, and SPT SD-2225DW, which typically use around 10.8 liters (2.85 gallons) per Normal cycle, the Hermitlux uses noticeably less water while still delivering practical everyday cleaning.
| Water Consumption (Per Cycle) | 5 Liters (1.32 Gallons) per wash in Normal cycle |
| Installation Requirement / Water Intake Modes | Easy Installation / 2 water intake modes (built-in tank and faucet mode) |
🕒 Cycle Time (4.5/5)
The Hermitlux HMX-TDJ04 keeps things practical with wash cycles designed for different cleaning needs and time demands. The Quick cycle runs in 29 minutes for lightly soiled dishes, while Fruit takes only 19 minutes for washing fruits and vegetables. Everyday cleaning is handled by the ECO cycle at 59 minutes and the Standard cycle at 69 minutes, while the Strong cycle reaches 89 minutes for heavier messes and sanitizing tasks. This balanced range gives users flexibility without making cycle selection feel complicated.
For a deeper dive into specific wash cycles, please refer to our section: “Specialized Wash Cycles.”
🍽️ Loading Capacity (4.3/5)
The Hermitlux HMX-TDJ04 offers a 4 Place-Setting Capacity (A Place Setting is defined further down in this section), making it suitable for singles, couples, dorms, or compact kitchens. It accommodates dishes up to 10.25 inches in size and includes practical accessories, such as a cutlery basket and a fruit basket, for better organization. While this capacity works well for daily meals and light dish loads, larger families may find the interior space somewhat limiting during heavier cleanup sessions.
| Number of Place Settings | 4 Place-Setting Capacity |
| Dish or Plate Size: A Rack can Accumulate | Fits up to 10.25″ dishes |
| Number of Racks | 1 Rack |
| Special Utensil Holders or Baskets | Cutlery basket and fruit basket |
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, 2 soup bowls, 2 cups, 1 glasses, and 4 sets of cutlery comfortably in a 4-place setting dishwasher.
🔒 Safety Features (4.4/5)
The Hermitlux HMX-TDJ04 includes thoughtful safety features designed to provide everyday peace of mind. Its auto-stop function on door opening helps prevent accidental operation when the door is opened during a cycle.
In addition, the dishwasher is equipped with a non-slip base, ensuring it stays securely in place during operation. But 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. These small precautions help support safer long-term use.
| Child lock – Safety Feature | Auto stop on door open |
| Leak or Overflow Protection – Safety Feature | Display Error indicator |
| Non-Slipping Base | Yes |
🛠 Reliability and Durability (4.2/5)
The Hermitlux HMX-TDJ04 features a plastic finish and a 1-year warranty, offering reasonable durability for a compact countertop dishwasher. Polypropylene (PP) is a strong, heat-resistant plastic valued for its durability, flexibility, and ability to withstand moisture and high temperatures.
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. While durable enough for routine household use, long-term durability may not match premium stainless-steel alternatives.
| Finish Type / Material | Plastic |
| Interior Tub Material | Plastic |
| Warranty Duration | 1 Year Warranty |
HERMITLUX HMX-TDJ04 (US HMX-DW04): Pre-programmed Wash Cycles
The HERMITLUX HMX-TDJ04 dishwasher features specialized cleaning cycles to tackle messes, ensuring your dishes shine every time. Here’s a quick breakdown of the available wash cycles:
| Program Name | When to Use | Time | Temperature | Detergent | Storage |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard | Daily tableware, plates, bowls, and lightly soiled dishes | 69 mins + Storage Mode | Up to 154 °F (68 °C) | 0.28 oz | 73 hrs fresh air circulation |
| ECO | Energy-saving washing for everyday dish loads | 59 mins + Storage Mode | Up to 154 °F (68 °C) | 0.28 oz | 73 hrs fresh air circulation |
| Quick | Light oil stains, cups, and lightly dirty dishes | 29 mins + Storage Mode | Up to 144 °F (62 °C) | 0.28 oz | 73 hrs fresh air circulation |
| Fruit | Washing fruits and vegetables before eating or cooking | 19 mins | Not specified | None required | Not available |
| Strong | Baby bottles, toys, greasy cookware, and heavily soiled items | 89 mins + Storage Mode | Up to 167 °F (75 °C) | 0.42 oz | 73 hrs fresh air circulation |
Hermitlux HMX-TDJ04 Dishwasher
Detailed Pros And Cons Of HERMITLUX HMX-TDJ04 (US HMX-DW04)
Pros
- Energy Star certified for better energy efficiency and lower environmental impact.
- Uses only 1.32 gallons (5 liters) per Normal cycle, supporting water-efficient cleaning.
- Offers 5 wash cycles: Standard, ECO, Quick, Strong, and Fruit.
- Strong cycle sanitizes at 167 °F (75 °C) for deeper cleaning and hygiene.
- PTC hot air drying improves drying performance with safer, energy-conscious heating.
- Supports 73-hour ventilating storage to help maintain freshness and reduce odors.
- Two spray arms with 14 water ports provide targeted 360° cleaning coverage.
- Two water supply modes support both built-in tank and faucet installation.
- Operates at a relatively quiet 50 dB, reducing noticeable kitchen noise.
- Compact countertop design with 4 place settings and support for 10.25-inch dishes.
- Includes digital display and touch controls for simple program selection and monitoring.
- Features include cutlery and fruit baskets to make loading and washing more organized.
- A multi-layer filtration system helps remove food particles, improving washing performance.
Cons
- No Wi-Fi connectivity or smart home assistant compatibility.
- No auto door opening, which may leave some moisture on plastic items.
- The rinse aid indicator is unavailable, limiting drying assistance and spot reduction.
- No built-in water softener for households dealing with hard water.
- The delay start timer is missing, reducing scheduling flexibility.
- Uses plastic exterior and tub materials instead of premium stainless steel construction.
- Solid door design prevents viewing dishes during operation.
- No fold-down tines for additional loading flexibility.
- Offers only 4 place-setting capacity, limiting larger loads.
- Requires manual filter cleaning for consistent performance.
- No dedicated child lock, relying instead on auto-stop when the door opens.
Hermitlux HMX-TDJ04 Dishwasher
Who Needs an HERMITLUX Tabletop Dishwasher?
- Busy families juggling tight schedules will appreciate this dishwasher’s efficient cleaning and space-saving design, which is perfect for smaller kitchens.
- For single professionals, its easy setup and quiet operation make it an excellent choice for maintaining a tidy kitchen with minimal effort.
- College students living in dorms can benefit from its compact size and quick cleaning cycles, ideal for snack plates and busy study days.
- Travel enthusiasts with RVs or boats will love its portability and ability to provide clean, dry dishes without relying on a constant water source.
- Eco-conscious individuals can feel good about choosing a dishwasher that minimizes water and energy usage while still delivering sparkling clean results.
- Small business owners or offices looking for a reliable solution will find its efficient cleaning cycles and thoughtful design ideal for daily use.
Who Can Skip Considering This Dishwasher?
- Large families or frequent hosts might struggle with its limited capacity, making it less convenient for high-volume dishwashing needs.
- Tech enthusiasts expecting smart connectivity or advanced features may be disappointed by the lack of Wi-Fi integration or app controls.
- Those living in hard water areas might face challenges due to the absence of a water softener, leading to potential spotting on dishes.
- Parents of young children may find its lack of safety features, like a child lock, less ideal for ensuring kid-friendly operation.
- Homeowners with kitchens designed for built-in appliances may find this countertop model less suitable for their aesthetic or functional needs.
Alternatives to HERMITLUX HMX-TDJ04 (US HMX-DW04)
Here are the alternatives to the Hermitlux dishwasher:
BLACK & DECKER – BCD6W
The BLACK + DECKER BCD6W stands out for its 6-place-setting capacity, 7 wash cycles, and practical countertop design. Its Energy Star certification, 24-hour delay start, and residual heat drying add convenience, while the Baby Care cycle with 158 °F (70 °C) sanitizing offers an extra level of cleaning performance. A stainless-steel interior, touch controls, and rinse-aid support give it a more refined feel. However, its 55 dB noise level and lack of smart connectivity keep it grounded as a capable but traditional countertop dishwasher.
- Discover more about this model in our thorough BLACK & DECKER BCD6W Dishwasher Review.
- To see how they stack up, visit our guide on HERMITLUX HMX-TDJ04 vs BLACK & DECKER – BCD6W.
Danby – DDW621WDB
The Danby DDW621WDB offers a balanced mix of simplicity and dependable cleaning. Featuring 6 place settings, six wash cycles, and Energy Star efficiency, it handles everyday dishwashing with ease. Its 52 dB noise level runs quieter than many countertop competitors, while the Heavy cycle reaches 154 °F (68 °C) for stronger cleaning performance. Stainless steel construction and rinse-aid support add durability and drying assistance, though the absence of a child lock and a digital display may feel limiting for some users.
- Discover more about this model in our thorough Danby DDW621WDB Dishwasher Review.
- Check out our side-by-side comparison in the comprehensive guide HERMITLUX HMX-TDJ04 vs Danby – DDW621WDB.
SPT-SD-2225DW
The SPT SD-2225DW combines solid countertop performance with user-friendly features. It includes 6 place settings, 6 wash cycles, Energy Star certification, residual heat drying, and an 8-hour delay start for added flexibility. The digital display, rinse-aid support, and stainless-steel interior help create a more polished washing experience. It’s 154 °F (68 °C) Heavy cycle and rotating spray arm support effective cleaning, though the 55 dB operation and lack of Wi-Fi features place it among more conventional countertop dishwasher designs.
- For more information about this model, you can explore SPT SD-2225DW Dishwasher Review.
- Explore their differences and similarities in our detailed guide on HERMITLUX HMX-TDJ04 vs SPT-SD-2225DW.
BLACK & DECKER BCD6W Dishwasher
Danby DDW621WDB Dishwasher
SPT SD-2225DW Dishwasher
Final Thoughts on HERMITLUX HMX-TDJ04 Dishwasher Review
The Hermitlux HMX-TDJ04 dishwasher review reveals a countertop dishwasher that balances efficiency, convenience, and thoughtful features in a compact footprint. With 5 wash cycles, 167 °F (75 °C) sanitizing in the Strong cycle, PTC hot-air drying, and an impressive 73-hour fresh-air storage mode, it delivers more versatility than many countertop competitors.
Its Energy Star certification, low 1.32-gallon (5-liter) water consumption, and quiet 50 dB operation further strengthen its value. While it omits features like Wi-Fi connectivity and auto-door opening, its practical performance and flexible dual-water-supply modes make it a compelling option. If you want dependable cleaning with modern convenience in a space-saving design, the Hermitlux HMX-TDJ04 is certainly worth serious consideration for your kitchen.
To explore more model reviews, check out our central hub of Countertop Dishwasher Reviews for more choices.
Hermitlux HMX-TDJ04 Dishwasher
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the capacity of the Hermitlux HMX-TDJ04 Dishwasher?
The Hermitlux HMX-TDJ04 Dishwasher has a 4-place-setting capacity and can fit dishes up to 10.25 inches.
How many washing programs does the Hermitlux HMX-TDJ04 offer?
The dishwasher provides 5 washing programs: Standard, Fast, ECO, Strong, and Fruit Cleaning.
Does the Hermitlux HMX-TDJ04 Dishwasher need any special installation?
No, the countertop dishwasher supports 2 water supply modes, including a built-in 5L water tank mode for instant use.
Is the Hermitlux HMX-TDJ04 Dishwasher noisy?
It’s quite quiet, operating at a noise level of 50 dB, making it suitable for small houses, apartments, and even RVs.
What’s the drying mechanism in the Hermitlux HMX-TDJ04 Dishwasher?
The dishwasher uses PTC hot air drying and rinses dishes with hot water at the end of the cycle for effective drying.
Does the Hermitlux HMX-TDJ04 Dishwasher have a digital display?
It features a clear LED display with touch controls on top for easy operation.
How do I handle food residues in the dishwasher?
The dishwasher has a detachable filter with a built-in anti-clogging funnel to easily filter out food residues, preventing any drain pipe clogs.
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Regular maintenance is essential to keep your dishwasher operating at its best and lasting longer. Below, you’ll find practical advice from our website to help maintain both cleanliness and efficiency:
- Dishwasher Running For Too Long? 7 Unexpected Causes and Quick Fixes!
- Is Pre-Rinsing Necessary? Dishwasher Myths Busted
- Dishwasher Pod Not Dissolving? Discover 8 Shocking Reasons Why!
- Dishwasher Door Unlocking During A Cycle? 5 Tips to Consider
- How to Prevent and Clean Cloudy Glasses
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- Dishwasher Myths: 7 Shocking Truths You Must Know!
- How to Dispose of and Recycle a Dishwasher?
- How to wash a Hat in the Dishwasher without damaging it
- First Time Using a Dishwasher? The Ultimate Beginner’s Guide!
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