Among the General Electric CDW9380NSS Cafe's biggest claims to fame is its SmartDispense Technology. The CDW9380NSS can hold the contents of an entire 47-ounce bottle of liquid dishwasher detergent. Sensors determine how hard the water is and how soiled the dishes are, and the feature dispenses detergent accordingly. A refill light indicates when more detergent will be needed. The benefit of this SmartDispense is more in the resulting cleanliness of the dishes rather than in significant detergent or labor (adding detergent) savings.

The Cafe model is Energy Star qualified, with annual energy consumption at a respectable level of 322 kWh. The delay start feature allows you to wait as many as eight hours to run a cycle at your convenience or set it to run at times when energy costs are low. The dishwasher also includes cycle memory, so you can quickly run your favorite and most commonly used cycle.

The CDW9380NSS dishwasher's six-level BrilliantClean Towerless Wash System is designed to get dishes ultra-clean by utilizing three full-sized wash arms and six wash levels. The integrated CleanSensor monitors and adjusts the wash cycle. The CDW9880NSS is NSF certified for sanitization and has automatic hot start that eliminates starting in cold or waiting for water to heat.

With an extra-large capacity, General Electric's Cafe dishwasher can accommodate oversize items or wash 16 place settings at one time. The upper rack is removable to allow extra-large items to fit in the bottom. There are two utility shelves in the upper rack that accommodate odd-size items, as well as two cup racks. Fold-down tines in the lower rack add to the flexibility of the unit. The interior is durable and made of desirable stainless steel.

For those seeking a quiet dishwasher, the CDW9880NSS utilizes fan-assisted drying and extra insulation to keep noise levels at approximately 48dB. As part of GE's line of Cafe kitchen appliances, the CDW9880NSS has an upscale, sleek design. The electronic light-touch controls are discreetly placed along the upper ledge of the door.

Currently GE's premier model, the CDW9880NSS offers plenty of innovative features, but is costly to acquire. Although this model focuses as much on gimmickry as on performance, we still like it as part of an all-GE coordinated kitchen.


Pros: Large capacity, energy efficient and quiet, well known manufacturer, sensor, delay, hot start
Cons: High price tag, a bit gimmicky

Warranty
1 year; 5 years, racks and electronic control board; lifetime, tub/door liner (limited)