Midea MDF18A1AST Built-In Dishwasher Review
Our verdict
The Midea MDF18A1AST is the best-reviewed 18-inch built-in dishwasher in this lineup, earning a 4.2-star average from 501 owners at a price just under $500. It is the right call for smaller kitchens or apartments where a full 24-inch unit simply will not fit.
Check price on AmazonBest for
Small households, apartments, condos, or any kitchen where an 18-inch cabinet slot replaces the standard 24-inch opening.
Skip if
You cook for four or more people regularly, since 8 place settings will require daily or twice-daily loads.
- Noise level 52 dB
- Capacity 8 Place Settings
- Controls Push Button
- Finish Stainless Steel
- Color Stainless Steel
- Dimensions 22.6 X 17.6 X 32.4 In
- Priced 34% below the category median ($760.99 across 48 tracked models)
- Noise level of 52 dB - lower than 80% of the 48 models we track
- Weight of 54.56 lb - lighter than 95% of the 48 models we track
Our scorecard
-
Owner rating4.2/5
4.2 average across 501 owner ratings
-
Popularity5.0/5
501 owner reviews, more than most models here
The overall score is owner satisfaction weighted by how many reviews back it, so a high rating from few reviews counts for less. The bars below show where this model stands against the other vacuum sealers, built-in and countertop dishwashers, food slicers, meat and grain grinders, spice mills and kitchen prep appliances we track in this category on price, popularity and size. Context, not marks against it, and our read of the data, not a lab test.
Overview
The MDF18A1AST measures 22.6 by 17.6 by 32.4 inches, making it one of the narrower built-in models available. At 54.56 pounds it is considerably lighter than full-size units, which can simplify installation in tight spaces. Push-button controls and a stainless steel finish round out a straightforward package.
The 52 dB noise rating is acceptable but not exceptional. You will hear the machine running from the kitchen, though it will not overwhelm conversation at normal volumes. For an 18-inch unit, the noise performance is typical of the category.
What sets this model apart is the owner feedback. With 501 reviews and a 4.2-star average, it has significantly more real-world validation than most competing 18-inch or specialty-size dishwashers. That track record matters when buying a smaller format appliance where the options are limited and replacement parts can be harder to source.
Pros
- 501 reviews averaging 4.2 stars provides strong owner validation
- Compact 18-inch width opens up installation in spaces where full-size units do not fit
- Under $500 price is competitive for a stainless built-in
- At 54.56 lb, lighter weight eases solo installation
Cons
- 8 place settings is limiting for households cooking full meals daily
- 52 dB is audible during use, not in the quiet range
- 18-inch format limits future replacement options if the brand exits this niche
Performance notes
Noise level is 52 dB. Capacity is 8 place settings. Dimensions are 22.6 by 17.6 by 32.4 inches and weight is 54.56 lb. Controls are push-button. Finish is stainless steel. Voltage is 120 volts. No wattage is published.
What buyers say
With 501 reviews and a 4.2-star average, the MDF18A1AST has one of the strongest owner feedback profiles among 18-inch dishwashers. Buyers appear generally satisfied with cleaning performance and fit for small-space kitchens.
Specifications
- Noise level
- 52 dB
- Capacity
- 8 Place Settings
- Controls
- Push Button
- Finish
- Stainless Steel
- Color
- Stainless Steel
- Dimensions
- 22.6 X 17.6 X 32.4 In
- Weight
- 54.56 lb
- Voltage
- 120 Volts
More from Midea
Similar vacuum sealers, built-in and countertop dishwashers, food slicers, meat and grain grinders, spice mills and kitchen prep appliances to consider
Featured in
Frequently asked questions
Will this dishwasher fit in a standard 18-inch cabinet opening?
The unit measures 17.6 inches wide, which is designed to slide into an 18-inch cabinet cutout. As with any built-in installation, measure your opening carefully including depth and height clearances. The 32.4-inch height requires a standard countertop height of at least 34 inches, and the 22.6-inch depth should be confirmed against your cabinet depth before purchase.
Is 8 place settings enough for two people?
For two people who cook most meals at home, 8 place settings is workable if you run a cycle every day. Each place setting covers a dinner plate, salad plate, bowl, glass, and a full set of flatware. Two people generating three meals a day will likely reach 8 settings by evening, so a nightly run is the practical expectation. If you tend to let dishes accumulate for two days before running the machine, this capacity will feel tight.
How does 52 dB compare to other dishwashers?
52 dB is mid-range for a built-in dishwasher. Models below 45 dB are considered quiet and can run unnoticed during TV time. At 52 dB you will clearly hear the machine from the kitchen, though it is unlikely to be disruptive from an adjacent living area with the kitchen door closed. For a compact 18-inch unit, 52 dB is a typical noise level.