From first glance to deep within its interior, the Frigidaire PLD4555RFC built-in dishwasher is the picture of elegance. It has hidden controls and a clean-line stainless steel exterior with a matching stainless steel handle. Even the granite-colored interior differs from the stark white we see in other household models, which is just one more reason why this model in Frigidaire's professional series is at the top of our list.

We appreciate the stainless steel self-cleaning filter (no more digging around in the bottom of the dishwasher for a filter to clean), as well as the built-in food disposal. The food disposal eliminates the need to pre-wash dishes before putting them into the dishwasher because it can handle food particles. This model has a flatware caddy that can be separated into three pieces to help customize rack space. There's also an additional caddy for large utensils and knives.

The Frigidaire PLD4555RFC has a top and bottom rack with unexpected features. The racks are coated with pearl-gray nylon to create a cushion that protects dishware. The tines fold flat for versatility, and the bottom rack includes tines that convert to hold bowls of varying sizes. The digital controls offer a countdown so it's easy to judge how much time remains. The dishwasher's start can be delayed from one to 24 hours. Plus, a child-lock will prevent unwanted changes to the dishwasher's programs.

There are seven wash cycles with several options, including adjustment options for varying degrees of water pressure. We especially like the SpeedClean cycle that can take dishware from dirty to clean in under an hour. There's even a cycle that can target the upper rack only for washing a load of glasses, and an NSF-certified cycle to sanitize the dishwasher's contents. This high-temperature wash can be paired with a heated drying time for dry, relatively spot-free dishes. Alternatively, an air-dry option can save energy if you're not in a hurry for clean kitchenware. Speaking of spot-free, the stainless steel front is as fingerprint-resistant as advertised -- a particularly nice feature if one has young children who frequent the kitchen.

Even though the Frigidaire PLD4555RFC built-in dishwasher lacks a stainless steel tub in the interior, it makes up for it with efficient, powerful performance and a high-end appeal. It has lots of extra features, and they actually work as we expected. This Frigidaire model costs far less than competitors with similar features, and in some cases, works far better.


Pros: Flip-down tines, speed wash, built-in food disposal
Cons: Doesn't have a stainless steel interior tub

Warranty
1 year, limited