The Best Garbage Disposals of 2023 Tested and Reviewed
Reviews on the best garbage disposals, on their motor, on the noise they make, along with a few more things, are absolutely necessary to homeowners.
Being around for decades, garbage disposals (or food waste disposer) are an integral part of many households. Having such a convenient way to manage daily food waste in your kitchen is always helpful. If utilized properly, an in-sink grinder can reduce your waste output dramatically. That means your bins will fill up slower and you won’t have to worry as much about bugs and wild animals going through the garbage.
How We Test
Our main objective is to see how each garbage disposal dealt with different types of scraps and how effective they were in practice. Each unit’s performance was assessed based on the data we’ve collected via running tests. With each test designed to reflect aspects of practicality in using a kitchen disposal, there were three in total:
The Scrap Mix test highlighted the disposals’ ability to deal with common food scraps. In this test, selected units each took no longer than 4 minutes processing 90 ounces of 11 different types, including eggshells, lemons, potatoes, cooked bones, etc. We scored the units based on how fast they finished the test (time) and their output quality (Layer 1 and Layer 2).
The Raw Fish Scraps test was to challenge the limits of the disposals’ grinding capabilities. The selected units would take turns processing roughly 50 ounces of salmon scraps in under 3 minutes. There were bones, skin, fins, and tails in the mix. For this, we scored on output quality and output yield (Leftovers).
The Raw Chicken Scraps test further evaluates how the disposals handle different types of bones. To specify, selected units would take no longer than 3 minutes to grind through 4 sets of chicken thigh bones. Here, we scored their time, output quality, and output yield.
To inform our decisions, we also drew on insights from design inspection as well as our notes on each unit’s usability. Grinding chamber, motor capacity, and build quality were the main areas of our focus. Beyond technical evaluation, personal impressions as well as mishaps and malfunctions during installation/operation were all acknowledged.
Check out full How We Test and Score Garbage Disposals for more information.
How We Decide
In this list, our decisions and recommendations regarding the products’ ranking are based heavily on the evaluation scores. Ultimately, we take into account their grinding capabilities, their build quality, and their economical values in relation to how they performed. The availability of the products also affects the current list.
Reviews of the Best Garbage Disposals in 2023
After evaluating more than 20 different models, our data points to these garbage disposals as the best picks in key categories:
1. Best Overall: InSinkErator Evolution Excel 1 HP Garbage Disposal
Our Rating See all our test results ↗
- Performance (60%)9.4
- Design (25%)9.6
- Usability (15%)8.5
Things We Like
- Noise cancelation
- Vibration damping
- High-torque motor
- Auto-reverse motor
- Advanced chamber layout
- Auto-unjam mechanics
- Extra-large capacity
- Stainless steel grinding components
Things We Don’t Like
- Very heavy build
- Space-consuming design
- Expensive
Out of the 20 different models we’ve tested, the InSinkErator Evolution Excel takes the number 1 spot not simply thanks to its premium features, but also its top-tier performance.
In the Scrap Mix test, the disposal set a standard for the entire franchise as it only took 2 minutes to plow through 90 ounces of materials, leaving only 0.3 ounces in the chamber. The disposal also released remarkable output quality with chart-topping figures on Layer 1 (0.7 ounces) and Layer 2 (7.2 ounces).
Yet, the real highlights were from the challenge tests as we watched the Excel grind down raw meat scraps with ease. In Raw Fish Scrap, the disposal managed to reduce 50 ounces of salmon scraps down to only 0.1 ounce in the chamber. The same thing went down in Raw Chicken Scrap as only 0.2 ounces remained from the 7.5 ounces of bones.
Upon close inspection of the chamber, it became clear why the disposal was so effective. Compared to typical disposals, the Excel’s chamber is meticulously designed to break bones with the addition of extra grinding details and quality materials. Of course, the 1-horsepower motor played no small role in how the disposal managed such incredible results.
What truly blew us away was how the disposal kept such a low noise profile while yielding the best output quality we had seen. The anti-vibration connections and the thick soundproofing casing worked wonders when they kept the grinder quiet and stabilized throughout the entire testing process.
While the Evolution is obviously expensive, it’s on another level entirely compared to the others in our collection. Not to mention the 10-year warranty that wraps up the deal.
Read our full InSinkErator Evolution Excel 1 HP Garbage Disposal in-depth review
2. Best 3/4-HP: GE GFC720N Continuous Feed 3/4 HP
Our Rating See all our test results ↗
- Performance (60%)7.8
- Design (25%)9.0
- Usability (15%)7.8
Things We Like
- Noise reduction
- High-speed motor
- Strengthened chamber layout
- Stainless steel grinding components
Things We Don’t Like
- Space-consuming design
- Can be loud
- No power cord
We prefer the GE GFC720N to the other mid-range units in our lab because the disposal consistently showed outstanding results coming out of the uncooked meat scraps challenge.
In Scrap Mix, the disposal demonstrated full competence in testing with a reassuring input-to-output ratio, reducing 90 ounces of input to 0.1 ounces left over in just 2 minutes 30 seconds. Furthermore, the disposal produced decent output quality with 5.6 ounces for Layer 1 and 16.6 ounces for Layer 2.
The GFC720N took a commanding lead over its peers when it managed to bring 50 ounces of raw materials down to 1.2 ounces leftovers in Raw Fish Scraps. Although its results from Raw Chicken Scraps, with 0.7 ounces leftovers from 7.5 ounces input, weren’t as impressive, they weren't bad figures either.
The disposal’s thick stainless steel impellers are likely one of the factors that leads to such note-worthy results, aside from the high-speed, jamless magnet motor. With a rigid build and solid performance, the GE GFC720N 3/4 HP is a worthwhile product. The cost may be steep for this range, but that’s partially justified by the product warranty with up to 5-year for replacement parts.
Read our full GE GFC720N Continuous Feed 3/4 HP in-depth review
3. Best 1/2-HP: Waste King Legend 1/2 HP L-1001
Our Rating See all our test results ↗
- Performance (60%)5.9
- Design (25%)7.9
- Usability (15%)7.4
Things We Like
- High-speed motor
- Affordable
- Easy installation
Things We Don’t Like
- Low capacity
- No noise reduction
The Waste King L-1001 is no doubt one of the best small garbage disposals in the market with a compact design and adequate grinding power.
Most noticeable was how the disposal did better than the Badger 1HP and the Badger 5XP in Scrap Mix, both are larger and more expensive. Specifically, while all of them pulverized the input at much of the same rate, the L-1001 released more satisfying output quality with 9 ounces and 17.9 ounces for Layer 1 and 2 respectively.
Additionally, the L-1001, for such a humble unit, finished the raw meat scrap tests admirably while several others, including the two mentioned earlier, outright failed. For your information, the disposal produced 3.4 ounces of leftovers in Raw Fish Scraps and 0.9 ounces in Raw Chicken Scraps.
The disposal runs on very humble specs, with a low-power, high-speed magnet motor and a galvanized steel grinding assembly rust easily over time. Still, the 2-year warranty and the affordable price tag sure make a bargain.
Read our full Waste King Legend 1/2 HP L-1001 in-depth review
4. Best Value: AmazonCommercial 3/4 HP with Cord
Our Rating See all our test results ↗
- Performance (60%)7.6
- Design (25%)9.2
- Usability (15%)7.9
Things We Like
- Noise cancelation
- High-speed motor
- Stainless steel grind components
- Lightweight build
- Affordable
Things We Don’t Like
- Can be loud
At first, we didn’t think much of the AmazonCommercial 3/4 HP because it belongs to a very new franchise. But we were pleasantly surprised when we put it to the tests. In fact, the disposal came close as the best 3/4-hp pick but the GE GFC720N is slightly more impressive.
The AmazonCommercial 3/4 HP went through Scrap Mix in roughly 2 minutes with 5 ounces for Layer 1, 22 ounces for Layer 2, and 0.2 ounces of leftovers. Though the amounts caught by the two colanders were more than we would like, the disposal worked quickly. It also handled the challenge of raw meat scraps rather well with only 2.2 ounces of leftovers from Raw Fish Scraps and 0.6 ounces from Raw Chicken Scraps.
At under $100, it was a surprise to see the disposal sporting stainless steel components. But its overall build quality can be better, and Amazon only warrants the first year of use, so that’s probably why. Regardless, the AmazonCommercial 3/4 HP Garbage Disposal certainly offers great values for what little it costs.
Read our full AmazonCommercial 3/4 HP with Cord in-depth review
Honorable Contenders
- The InSinkErator Essential XTR is another splendid 3/4-hp disposal with quiet operation, quality build, and solid grinding performance. However, the disposal couldn’t yield consistent results in the raw scrap challenges.
- The Moen GXS75C Host Series is an up-and-coming disposal with a 3/4-hp jamless magnet motor. The disposal runs well and has been seeing a lot of positive reviews online but is still not quite good enough for an official spot on the list.
- The Waste King Legend L-8000 is another affordable, high-power option with a 1-hp motor and stainless steel components. If you want to upgrade your old Waste King, this could be worth checking out.
Things You Should Know
When you’re buying a garbage disposal, keep in mind these important factors:
- Is it strong enough? 1/2-HP and cheap 3/4-HP are best for plate-rinsers. Stronger and more advanced models are better for discarded scraps and leftover food.
- Is it jamless? High-speed motors have a much lower risk of jamming than slow motors.
- Is it cordless? Cordless models are for hardwiring configurations only.
- Is it too big? Limited space aside, the existing waste line might be too high for your new disposal.
For more useful information on how to choose the best garbage disposal, check out our detailed buying guide.
Our Expertise
Be Nguyen started his research on garbage disposal back in 2019, when he was preparing for some of his newest technical reviews. In 2022, sorting through dozens of different models, he, Luna, and Healthykitchen101’s test team began examining and testing the most promising food disposers in the market.
With 200+ pounds of common kitchen leftovers (fruit, vegetables, etc.) and 140+ pounds of raw meat scraps (chicken bones, salmon remains, etc.) processed, after 20+ hours spent in preparation and 40+ more in running tests, the team was able to collect crucial data regarding each product’s performance and usability. Working with garbage hasn’t been the most pleasant experience, but thanks to the shared efforts, the team has put together strongly informed reviews on every product as well as helpful recommendations.
FAQ
If the disposal hums but doesn’t run when you flip the switch, there’s still power and the disposal is stuck. Find a way to rotate the chamber manually to unjam. If your disposal does not turn on, there’s either a problem with the disposal’s internal circuit, the switch, or the kitchen circuit. You can try the disposal’s reset button or check the power supply (switch, outlet, breaker, etc.)
First, set up a mounting assembly. You can use the old assembly if it fits and doesn’t leak. Next, hang the disposal onto the mounting assembly and secure it with tools. Finally, hook the disposal to the drainpipe. Connect the dishwasher if necessary. Check for leaks. You can find more detailed instructions in this article
Use a plunger to push through clogs and drain standing water. Next, remove and clean the pipes and p-trap. Use a plumbing snake to clear the waste line (into the wall or floor). Unjam and reset the garbage disposal if necessary and put everything back. Flush the line and check for leaks.
Try baking soda, vinegar, and hot water once a month or every two months for residual buildup. For regular cleaning, grind ice cubes, chopped citrus fruits (lemons, limes, etc.), and sea salt altogether to scour, disinfect, and deodorize the interior.
Find a red button on the bottom half of your disposal. Some have it on the bottom, others on the front. The button pops out to break the circuit in case it overloads. Push it back to reset the machine.
Garbage disposals, or food waste disposers, often last years. Depending on the make and circumstance, some can stay operational after a decade. Cheaper models work well for the first couple of years. Most standard units easily last for more than 5 years with moderate maintenance.
A combination of chopped lemons, ice cubes, and sea salt can be very effective at deodorizing garbage disposals. For better results, try flushing the disposal with baking soda, vinegar, and hot water before deodorizing.
First, locate the leak. If not installed properly, garbage disposals may leak from the collar, the outlet, the dishwasher inlet, or even from the bottom. In most cases, it’s usually improper installation where connections are not sealed or cleared. If yours is leaking from the bottom, chances are it’s a faulty unit or it’s too old. Either way, it’s best to opt for a replacement.
About your guide
Luna Regina is an accomplished writer and author who dedicates her career to empowering home cooks and making cooking effortless for everyone. She is the founder of HealthyKitchen101.com and HealthyRecipes101.com, where she works with her team to develop easy, nutritious recipes and help aspiring cooks choose the right kitchen appliances.
Be Nguyen is a writer and product reviewer. Being naturally curious about technology and its real-world applications, Be spent several years in university studying engineering before joining the team at HealthyKitchen101 where he disassembles, tests, and rates household appliances.
Lap is Head of the Research, Testing, and Review Team (RTR Team) at HealthyKitchen101.com, where he directs and supervises the testing of kitchen gadgets and appliances.
