Every Bosch slimline dishwasher is 45 cm wide and holds 9 or 10 place settings. That suits a smaller kitchen, a flat or a household that runs fewer dishes. The first choice is how it fits. Bosch 45 cm built-in dishwashers are fully integrated, so they sit behind a door that matches your cabinets. Bosch 45 cm freestanding dishwashers come in white, and one Series 4 model comes in silver inox with an anti-fingerprint finish.

After that, the choice is between Series 2 and Series 4. Series 2 models have five wash programmes and a cutlery basket, with noise levels of 46 to 48 dB. Series 4 adds a sixth programme and swaps the basket for a cutlery tray at the top, which leaves more room in the lower basket. Series 4 is also quieter at 44 dB and has better energy ratings: D on the freestanding models and B on the fully integrated one. On integrated dishwashers you can't see the controls once the door is closed, so it helps that the Series 4 has a time-left display and one Series 2 model shines a red InfoLight onto the floor while it runs. Every model connects to the internet, so you can check and control it from your phone with Bosch's Home Connect app.

To narrow it down, decide first between integrated and freestanding. Then think about how often you'll run it. In an open-plan room or with daily loads, the quieter, more efficient Series 4 is worth considering, while Series 2 covers simpler needs. If you have space for a 60 cm machine, see Bosch full-size dishwashers.