10 Best Garbage Disposals 2025 in the United States

The InSinkErator Badger 5 is a reliable garbage disposal that fits well into most kitchens. It features a 1/2 horsepower motor, which is powerful enough for typical household waste, making it an efficient choice for daily use. Despite its power, it operates quietly, which is a significant advantage for maintaining a peaceful kitchen environment. Its continuous feed type allows for the disposal of food waste while the unit is running, adding convenience for users who prepare meals frequently.

The grinding chamber is made from stainless steel, ensuring durability and longevity. Additionally, it includes a zinc stopper that provides extra safety by holding back water and activating the disposal only when manually engaged. Installation is user-friendly with a secure mounting assembly, and it comes with all necessary components, including a power cord, flange, and Jam-Buster wrench, making the setup straightforward.

The compact size (6.31 x 6.31 x 11.5 inches) and relatively lightweight (5 pounds) design means it won't take up much space under your sink. The InSinkErator Badger 5 also comes with a 3-year in-home service warranty, which provides peace of mind in case of any issues. However, some users might find the 1/2 horsepower motor insufficient for very heavy-duty disposal needs, and the black/gray color might not match all kitchen aesthetics.

The InSinkErator EVOLUTION 0.75 HP garbage disposal is a solid choice for anyone looking to efficiently manage food waste in their kitchen. Its 3-Stage MultiGrind technology excels at grinding tough food scraps finely, which helps prevent clogs—a significant advantage for busy households. The 3/4 HP motor is powerful enough to handle most kitchen waste without any issues. The use of stainless steel in the grinding components enhances durability, ensuring that this disposal can withstand daily use.

One of the standout features is the Quiet SoundSeal technology, which significantly reduces noise during operation. This is particularly beneficial for those who prefer a quieter kitchen environment. Additionally, the compact design allows for easy installation under the sink, making it a suitable option for kitchens with limited space.

There are a few points to consider. The EZ Connect installation system, while designed for ease, may still pose challenges for those who aren't comfortable with DIY tasks. Also, the power cord is sold separately, which can add to the initial cost and inconvenience if you don’t have one on hand. The InSinkErator EVOLUTION garbage disposal is an excellent investment for those seeking efficiency, durability, and quiet operation, but might require a bit more effort for installation and budgeting for additional accessories.

The Waste Maid 10-US-WM-048-3B is a compact garbage disposal featuring a 1/3 horsepower motor running at 2400 RPM, providing adequate power for everyday kitchen waste but potentially struggling with very tough or large food scraps compared to higher horsepower units. Its grinding system is made of stainless steel, offering durability and corrosion resistance, supported by a strong lifetime warranty against rust. The model uses a continuous feed design, allowing food waste to be added while running, making it convenient for busy kitchens. Additionally, it includes an anti-jam system that helps prevent clogs and maintains smooth motor operation with less vibration, resulting in quieter use than many disposals in this price range.

Installation is straightforward due to a common 3-bolt mounting system, making it a good replacement option for many existing setups. Measuring just over 12 inches tall and weighing 8.6 pounds, it fits well in tighter spaces. The 4-year warranty adds confidence in the product's reliability. The motor power is on the lower side, so frequent grinding of tough or fibrous waste may be less efficient than with higher-powered models. Noise is reduced but not completely silent, so some sound is expected during use.

This Waste Maid unit is well-suited for homeowners seeking a budget-friendly, durable, and easy-to-install garbage disposal for typical kitchen waste, though it may not be ideal for heavy-duty or large-volume waste disposal needs.