Premium dishwashers promise quieter operation, better cleaning performance, and smarter features, but not all of them deliver meaningful improvements over mid-range models. To find out whether the LG Studio Smart Top Control Dishwasher lives up to its reputation, I used it as my primary dishwasher for approximately four weeks and ran more than 25 wash cycles under a variety of real-world conditions.
My test loads included everything from heavily soiled casserole dishes and stainless steel cookware to wine glasses, plastic food containers, and dishes from large family dinners. I intentionally skipped pre-rinsing on several loads to evaluate how well LG’s QuadWash and TrueSteam technologies handled stubborn food residue.
This review focuses on actual day-to-day performance rather than marketing claims. I’ll cover cleaning effectiveness, drying capability, noise levels, smart features, loading flexibility, and overall value to help determine whether this dishwasher deserves a place in your kitchen.
Key Takeaways
- Exceptionally quiet operation at 42 dBA
- Excellent cleaning performance, even on baked-on food
- TrueSteam helps reduce the need for pre-rinsing
- Flexible third-rack design increases usable capacity
- LG ThinQ app adds useful convenience features
- Plastic items may occasionally retain some moisture after drying
- Best suited for households that run their dishwasher frequently
My Testing Setup
To evaluate performance consistently, I used the LG Studio dishwasher as the primary unit in a busy household for 4 weeks.
Testing included:
- More than 25 wash cycles
- Everyday dishes and cookware
- Large dinner-party loads
- Glassware and delicate items
- Plastic storage containers
- Baked-on casserole dishes
- Stainless steel pots and pans
The goal was to evaluate how the dishwasher performs in real-world situations rather than under ideal laboratory conditions.
LG Studio Smart Top Control Dishwasher Specifications
| Specification | Details |
| Noise Level | 42 dBA |
| Capacity | 15 Place Settings |
| Wash System | QuadWash |
| Steam Cleaning | TrueSteam |
| Smart Features | LG ThinQ Wi-Fi |
| Third Rack | Yes |
| Drying System | Condensation Drying |
| Control Style | Hidden Top Controls |
Performance Scores
| Category | Score |
| Cleaning Performance | 9.5/10 |
| Drying Performance | 8.5/10 |
| Noise Level | 10/10 |
| Loading Flexibility | 9/10 |
| Smart Features | 9/10 |
| Value for Money | 8.5/10 |
| Overall Rating | 9.1/10 |
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Extremely quiet operation
- Outstanding cleaning performance
- Effective steam-assisted cleaning
- Flexible rack system
- Reliable smart app integration
- Attractive hidden-control design
Cons
- Higher price than many competitors
- Plastic items can retain moisture
- Learning curve for optimal rack configuration
- Some smart features may be unnecessary for certain users
Design and Build Quality
The first thing I noticed was the clean, uninterrupted exterior. Because the controls are hidden along the top edge of the door, the front panel maintains a sleek appearance that works particularly well in modern kitchens.
The overall construction feels substantial. The door opens smoothly, the racks glide effortlessly, and the adjustable components feel durable rather than flimsy. The dishwasher gives the impression of a carefully engineered flagship appliance rather than a standard kitchen upgrade.
The PrintProof stainless steel finish also excels at resisting fingerprints, reducing the need for constant wiping.
Cleaning Performance
Cleaning performance is where this dishwasher earns much of its price premium.
LG’s QuadWash system uses four multi-motion spray arms rather than the traditional two. During testing, this resulted in noticeably better water coverage, especially in heavily loaded racks and difficult-to-reach corners.
One of my toughest tests involved a lasagna pan that had been left overnight with baked-on cheese and sauce residue. Using the Heavy cycle with TrueSteam enabled, the dish emerged completely clean without any pre-rinsing.
Other test loads included:
- Stainless steel sauté pans with cooking oil residue
- Mixing bowls with dried batter
- Coffee mugs with stubborn stains
- Plates with dried food residue
- Large serving dishes from family gatherings
The dishwasher consistently handled these loads with minimal issues.
TurboWash quickly became my preferred setting for everyday use. It delivered excellent cleaning performance while reducing cycle times compared to the Normal cycle.
Noise Level
At 42 dBA, this is among the quietest residential dishwashers currently available.
During testing, it frequently blended into the background. In an open-concept kitchen, family members often couldn’t tell whether it was running unless they stood nearby.
For homeowners sensitive to appliance noise, this level of quiet operation is a major advantage.
Smart Features and LG ThinQ App
I initially viewed the smart features as a nice bonus rather than a major selling point.
After several weeks of use, however, I found several features genuinely useful.
The LG ThinQ app allows users to:
- Monitor cycle progress remotely
- Receive completion notifications
- Download specialty wash cycles
- Access troubleshooting information
- Run diagnostics when issues arise
One feature I particularly appreciated was the ability to download specialty cycles for heavily soiled cookware and baby items.
Unlike some smart appliance platforms, the ThinQ app maintained a stable connection throughout testing and never required repeated setup.
Rack System and Loading Capacity
The third rack proved more useful than expected.
Moving utensils and serving tools to the upper rack freed up valuable space in the lower racks for larger cookware and dinnerware. The adjustable middle rack also provided additional flexibility when washing oversized items.
There is a slight learning curve. During the first few loads, I occasionally blocked spray coverage by overloading certain sections. Once I refined my loading routine, cleaning performance improved even further. If you’re unsure about the proper placement of dishes, utensils, and cookware, this guide on How to Load a Dishwasher for Optimal Cleaning explains techniques to maximize spray coverage and improve wash results.
With a capacity of 15 place settings, the dishwasher easily handled the dishes from an eight-person dinner.
Drying Performance
The LG Studio uses condensation drying rather than a traditional exposed heating element.
For glassware, ceramics, and cookware, drying performance was consistently excellent. Items emerged clean, dry, and largely spot-free when rinse aid was used regularly.
Plastic containers were the only area where performance occasionally fell short. Some lightweight plastics retained small amounts of moisture after certain cycles.
This is a common limitation of condensation-drying dishwashers rather than a flaw unique to LG.
Common Mistakes I See With Premium Dishwashers
Ignoring the Filter
Even advanced filtration systems require maintenance. I recommend cleaning the filter every two to three weeks to maintain peak cleaning performance.
Even advanced filtration systems require maintenance. I recommend cleaning the filter every two to three weeks to maintain peak cleaning performance. Homeowners often overlook routine appliance maintenance until a problem develops, which is why I always encourage readers to learn from real service experiences, such as this Appliance EMT review, which highlights how preventive care can help avoid unexpected repair calls.
Overloading the Racks
Packing dishes too closely can limit spray-arm coverage and reduce cleaning effectiveness.
Skipping Rinse Aid
Rinse aid significantly improves drying performance, especially when washing plastic containers.
Using the Wrong Cycle
Many owners default to the Normal cycle. During testing, the Auto cycle often delivered equally good results while optimizing water and energy use.
LG Studio vs Bosch 800 Series
Many shoppers considering the LG Studio also compare it with the Bosch 800 Series.
The Bosch 800 Series is widely known for its CrystalDry technology, which generally delivers superior drying performance for plastic containers.
The LG Studio, however, offers several advantages of its own.
Choose the LG Studio if you prioritize:
- Steam-assisted cleaning
- Smart home integration
- Flexible rack configurations
- Modern hidden-control aesthetics
Choose the Bosch 800 Series if you prioritize:
- Maximum plastic drying performance
- Simplicity over smart features
- CrystalDry technology
Both models are excellent choices, but households focused on smart features and steam cleaning may find the LG Studio more appealing.
Who Should Buy the LG Studio Dishwasher?
Best For
- Frequent home cooks
- Larger households
- Open-concept homes
- Smart home enthusiasts
- Homeowners seeking a modern kitchen aesthetic
Not Ideal For
- Budget-conscious shoppers
- Small households with limited dishwasher use
- Buyers focused solely on value rather than premium features
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the LG Studio Smart Top Control Dishwasher worth the price?
For households that use their dishwasher daily and value quiet operation, strong cleaning performance, and smart features, I believe it offers excellent value despite its higher cost.
How quiet is 42 dBA in real-world use?
Very quiet. Most people will barely notice it running unless they are standing nearby.
Does the ThinQ app work reliably?
Yes. During testing, the app remained connected and functioned consistently.
How long does TurboWash take?
Cycle times vary depending on load conditions, but TurboWash is noticeably faster than the Normal cycle while still delivering excellent cleaning performance.
Does the dishwasher require rinse aid?
It will operate without rinse aid, but drying performance improves noticeably when the dispenser remains filled.
Can it handle large pots and baking sheets?
Yes. The adjustable racks and spacious interior provide enough flexibility for oversized cookware.
Final Verdict: Is the LG Studio Dishwasher Worth It?
After more than 25 wash cycles, the LG Studio Smart Top Control Dishwasher proved itself to be one of the most capable dishwashers I’ve tested.
Its combination of excellent cleaning performance, near-silent operation, flexible loading options, and useful smart features makes it a strong contender in the high-end dishwasher category.
While the condensation drying system occasionally leaves moisture on some plastic items, and the purchase price may be difficult to justify for occasional users, the overall experience is impressive. Homeowners upgrading from an older or mid-range dishwasher will likely notice immediate improvements in cleaning effectiveness, noise reduction, and everyday convenience.
If you’re looking for a premium dishwasher that combines advanced cleaning technology with thoughtful design and smart functionality, the LG Studio Smart Top Control Dishwasher is well worth considering.