Miele vs Smeg Dishwashers

Miele and Smeg both sell premium dishwashers, but they compete on different strengths. Miele offers four models from £699 to £1,449, including the 14-place Miele G 5110 SC Active at £699 and the Miele G 7130 SCCLST AutoDos at £1,449. Smeg ranges from £399 for the 13-place Smeg DF262DB to £649 for the freestanding Smeg DF344BX, with the Smeg DF344BW at £536 and the silver Smeg DF344BX at £619 between them.

Miele is built around automation and longevity. AutoDos dispenses detergent automatically, PowerDisk EcoPower technology uses just 6 litres of water per cycle, and QuickPowerWash offers a fast cycle. Smeg relies on design and practical features instead: the DF344BX offers a 27-minute quick wash and opens its door after the cycle, while the DF344BW adds Dry Assist and a Half Load Flexizone. The brand also cites A+++ energy efficiency and operating noise between 42 and 44 dB(A), with a FlexiDuo third basket for loading flexibility.

Miele suits buyers who want the most automated and quietest premium machine, and who will use features such as AutoDos and Miele@home regularly. Smeg suits households that want a retro-styled kitchen appliance with good everyday performance and a more modest entry price. The Smeg DF262DB at £399 is the most accessible option, and the Smeg DF344BX at £649 costs £50 less than the Miele G 5110 SC Active at £699, so the two are closer on price than their designs suggest. Smeg's spare parts can be expensive, while Miele's repair costs and PowerDisk replacements add up over time.

Bottom line: choose Miele if automatic detergent dosing, long-term durability and quiet running justify spending from £699 up to £1,449. Choose Smeg if retro design and a 27-minute quick wash matter more, and you want a premium look from £399.