Bosch Ascenta SHX3AR76UC Review

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Model By Model

MSRPs for the 14 Ascenta models range from $499 to $699. To make your decision less complicated, pay attention to the sound rating of whichever Ascenta(s) you’re interested in buying—it’ll be either 46 dBA or 50 dBA. The quieter, 46 dBA models have features that the 50 dBA models don’t.

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Bosch’s InfoLight, which beams a convenient red light onto your floor so you’ll know when a cycle’s running, is only available on 46 dBA models. Same for RackMatic, an easy height-adjustment feature on the upper rack, and Speed60, a dirty-to-dry cycle that lasts just over an hour. The 50 dBA models will save you some cash, but they lack these features and also substitute Speed60 with Express Wash, a cycle for lightly soiled plates.

Beyond that, your price will vary based on color and handle type. All Ascentas come with stainless tub walls and sanitizing options.

When we review an entire product line at once, we spell out the differences at the very top of the review. To compare a different product, use the Related Products menu at the top right, or try the handy comparison tool at Bosch’s website.

Will They Clean My Plates?

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After weeks of testing multiple Ascenta models in our state-of-the-art labs, we found the Ascenta series’ cleaning capabilities on par with other dishwashers at similar price points. Each model’s Normal cycle should be expected to fully remove typical dinner stains, while Heavy Duty is dependable for baked-on stains, like burnt cheese.

You may notice some redeposit—that’s when stains wash off one plate only to land on another. If it becomes a problem, don’t be afraid to go with the Heavy Duty cycle more often, as it is still relatively efficient.

Warranty

Like most dishwashers, the Ascenta Series' warranty covers the cost of repairs due to defects for the first year. For the first 30 days of ownership, BSH (Bosch’s parent company) will also cover cosmetic defects such as scratches, dents, and blemishes. After the first year, and for up to five years after the date of purchase, replacement parts for the dish racks and electronic components are covered, but not the labor costs.

Why We Like The Ascenta Series

If you want a Bosch on a budget, it’s hard to go wrong with an Ascenta. Your dishes are clean, the process is quiet, and your kitchen looks great.

Other the other hand, if you’re not set on a Bosch dishwasher, consider the Figidaire Gallery series or similar options from Whirlpool. Each offer similar cleaning, but could save you as much as $100 up front.