Sunpentown SD-2201W

If you're hand washing dishes and have $175 in your pocket, get the Koldfront PDW60EB. It can hook up to nearly any kitchen sink, doesn't require plumbing and can be lugged into a closet when you're done. Best of all? It actually gets your dishes clean! And it's pretty energy efficient, too.

If you're short on space and need a dishwasher, the EdgeStar DWP61ES is an ideal choice. It costs a little more than its competitors, but it also offers a countdown timer and start delay. Not only can you hook it up to almost any faucet, but it also does a very good job getting dishes clean.

The SPT SD-2201W holds its own when compared to full-size dishwashers.

For under $250, the portable Sunpentown SD-2201W gets dishes clean efficiently and effectively. It even outperforms some full-size models, though its cramped confines can't match a built-in washer's interior space.