8 Best Garbage Disposals (October 2026)
The best best garbage disposals include the InSinkErator Badger 5 with Power Cord for everyday kitchen scraps, the InSinkErator Evolution 3/4 HP for quieter grinding, and the InSinkErator Badger 5XP with Power Cord for a corded 3/4 HP upgrade.
On this page (12 sections)
- How we chose the best garbage disposal models
- Compare the best garbage disposals
- InSinkErator Badger 5 with Power Cord
- InSinkErator Evolution 3/4 HP
- InSinkErator Badger 5XP with Power Cord
- InSinkErator Badger 1 with Power Cord
- InSinkErator Power Series 3/4 HP
- Moen Prep Series PRO Compact 1/2 HP
- Moen L-3200 Waste King 3/4 HP
- InSinkErator ES50 1/2 HP with Cord
- What should you check before buying a garbage disposal?
- Which garbage disposal should you choose?
The best garbage disposal for most homes is the InSinkErator Badger 5 with Power Cord, a compact 1/2 HP model with a cord already attached. Choose the Evolution for quieter operation and multiple grind stages, or the Badger 5XP if you want 3/4 HP with a cord included.
A disposal should fit your sink setup, wiring and cabinet space as well as your food-scrap routine. If you're starting from scratch, our complete garbage disposal buying guide explains the main choices.
Our picks at a glance
-
1
Best for everyday kitchen scrapsInSinkErator Badger 5 with Power Cord
9.2/10 our score
See it on Amazon -
2
-
3
Best for a corded 3/4 HP upgradeInSinkErator Badger 5XP with Power Cord
8.7/10 our score
See it on Amazon
- 4
Check itInSinkErator Badger 1 with Power Cord
Best for light daily use - 5
Check itInSinkErator Power Series 3/4 HP
Best for a two-stage grind - 6
Check itMoen Prep Series PRO Compact 1/2 HP
Best for compact plug-in replacement - 7
Best for a corded EZ Mount setupCheck it - 8
Check itInSinkErator ES50 1/2 HP with Cord
Best for automatic overload reset
How we chose the best garbage disposal models
The Badger 5 ranks first for its compact body, 1/2 HP motor and included cord. We compared motor types, grind systems, installation features and power connections against common household buying needs.
We gave more weight to practical details such as whether the cord is included, whether the unit supports replacement on compatible mounts, and whether it offers multiple grind stages or noise reduction features.
Our score weighs specs and features against what you're shopping for. Check your existing mount, outlet or wiring, dishwasher connection and available space before ordering.
Compare the best garbage disposals
The Badger 5 is the top all-around pick for everyday scraps, while the Evolution suits shoppers prioritizing quieter operation and extra grind stages. Use the table to narrow choices by motor size, grind system and power connection.
| Product | Best for | Motor | Feed type | Cord | Our score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| InSinkErator Badger 5 with Power Cord | everyday kitchen scraps | 1/2 HP | Continuous feed | Included | 9.2 |
| InSinkErator Evolution 3/4 HP | quieter grinding | 3/4 HP | 8.9 | ||
| InSinkErator Badger 5XP with Power Cord | a corded 3/4 HP upgrade | 3/4 HP | Continuous feed | Included | 8.7 |
| InSinkErator Badger 1 with Power Cord | light daily use | 1/3 HP | Continuous feed | Included | 8.4 |
| InSinkErator Power Series 3/4 HP | a two-stage grind | 3/4 HP | 8.1 | ||
| Moen Prep Series PRO Compact 1/2 HP | compact plug-in replacement | 1/2 HP | Included | 8.0 | |
| Moen L-3200 Waste King 3/4 HP | a corded EZ Mount setup | 3/4 HP | Included | 7.9 | |
| InSinkErator ES50 1/2 HP with Cord | automatic overload reset | 1/2 HP, based on laboratory peak output, not operational output | Continuous feed | Included | 7.4 |
Which best garbage disposal fits your kitchen?
The best garbage disposal for your kitchen fits the sink mount, power connection and cabinet space. Match the model to your most frequent use, then confirm the included installation parts.
A factory-installed cord can simplify connection when you have a compatible outlet under the sink. For hardwired setups, confirm the unit supports your connection; a separate cord is needed only if you're converting to a compatible plug-in setup.
The garbage disposal installation guide walks through the main replacement steps. If you're unsure about the outlet or hardwired connection, compare plug-in and hardwired disposal setups before choosing.
InSinkErator Badger 5 with Power Cord
The InSinkErator Badger 5 with Power Cord is our top pick for everyday scraps thanks to its compact body, 1/2 HP motor and included cord. It combines a Dura-Drive induction motor with galvanized steel grind components.
InSinkErator Badger 5 with Power Cord: Best for everyday kitchen scraps
- 1/2 HP Dura-Drive induction motor
- Galvanized steel grind components
- Factory-installed power cord
- 3-year in-home service warranty
A compact 1/2 HP option with a factory-installed cord and everyday food-scrap focus. Its Lift and Latch connection is designed to make sink mounting easier.
Pros
- Power cord included
- Compact design
- Lift and Latch connection
Cons
- Lower horsepower than the 3/4 HP picks
- Galvanized steel grind components
The factory-installed power cord is useful when the cabinet has a compatible outlet. The package also includes a stopper, discharge tube, flange, gasket, hardware and a jam-buster wrench.
InSinkErator's Lift and Latch feature is designed to make the sink connection easier to handle during installation. The body measures 6.31 x 6.31 x 11.5 in, giving you specific dimensions to compare with your cabinet.
Choose it if your household mainly disposes of everyday food scraps and you want the cord already attached. Before replacing an existing unit, compare its mount and cabinet clearance with the Badger 5's dimensions.
InSinkErator Evolution 3/4 HP
The InSinkErator Evolution 3/4 HP suits buyers who value quieter operation and 3 grind stages. InSinkErator designed its 3/4 HP motor and 3-Stage MultiGrind system to handle tough and fibrous scraps.
InSinkErator Evolution 3/4 HP: Best for quieter grinding
- 3/4 HP Dura-Drive induction motor
- 3-Stage MultiGrind
- Quiet SoundSeal technology
- EZ Connect hardwire adapter
Three grind stages suit buyers who want a multi-stage system. InSinkErator's Quiet SoundSeal technology is designed for quieter operation than standard disposals.
Pros
- 3-stage grind system
- Quiet SoundSeal technology
- EZ Grip Handles
Cons
- Power cord sold separately
- Larger than the Badger 5
InSinkErator's Quiet SoundSeal technology is designed for quieter operation than standard disposals, and the Quiet Collar sink baffle is removable. The unit includes an EZ Connect hardwire adapter, but its power cord is sold separately.
At 12.25 in tall and 8.25 in wide, it needs a cabinet check before installation. Lift and Latch, EZ Grip Handles and a removable dishwasher inlet plug are included as installation features.
Pick the Evolution if noise and grind stages matter more than a ready-to-plug cord. If your current unit is an InSinkErator, compare the Power and Badger series before deciding whether the added grind features suit your kitchen.
InSinkErator Badger 5XP with Power Cord
The InSinkErator Badger 5XP with Power Cord suits a replacement where you want 3/4 HP and an attached cord. It uses a single-stage grind and stainless steel grind components.
InSinkErator Badger 5XP with Power Cord: Best for a corded 3/4 HP upgrade
- 3/4 HP Dura-Drive induction motor
- Stainless steel grind components
- Factory-installed power cord
- 4-year in-home limited service warranty
The Badger 5XP pairs a 3/4 HP motor with stainless steel grind components and a cord already attached. Its Quick Lock Mount is intended for replacement of an existing InSinkErator disposer.
Pros
- 3/4 HP motor
- Power cord included
- Stainless steel grind components
Cons
- Single-stage grind
- Check cabinet clearance before replacing
InSinkErator's Quick Lock Mount is intended for fast replacement of an existing compatible InSinkErator disposer. The package includes the power cord, stopper, discharge tube, clamp, hardware and jam-buster wrench.
The Badger 5XP stands 12.63 in tall and 6.31 in wide, so measure the space below your sink before choosing it. Its 3/4 HP motor has a higher horsepower designation than the Badger 5, while its grind system has 1 stage rather than the Evolution's 3.
Choose this model if you want a cord included and a higher motor rating for daily kitchen scraps. For more detail on two lower-powered Badger options, read our Badger 5 vs Badger 1 comparison.
InSinkErator Badger 1 with Power Cord
The InSinkErator Badger 1 with Power Cord suits light daily use and a simple corded setup. Its 1/3 HP motor has the lowest horsepower designation in this roundup.
InSinkErator Badger 1 with Power Cord: Best for light daily use
- 1/3 HP Dura-Drive induction motor
- Galvanized steel grind components
- Factory-installed power cord
- 1-year in-home limited service warranty
A basic, compact choice for everyday food scraps, with a cord included and a Quick Lock Mount for replacement of an existing InSinkErator disposer.
Pros
- Power cord included
- Compact design
- Lift and Latch connection
Cons
- Lowest horsepower in this roundup
- 1-year limited service warranty
It includes a factory-installed power cord, plus a stopper, discharge tube, flange, gasket, hardware and jam-buster wrench. InSinkErator's Quick Lock Mount is intended for replacement of an existing compatible InSinkErator unit.
Its compact design is useful where cabinet room matters, though you should measure your space before choosing it. InSinkErator backs it with a 1-year in-home limited service warranty.
Choose it when your disposal needs are light and you want a basic replacement. Read the Badger 1 review for a closer look, and consider the Badger 5 if you want a 1/2 HP motor.
InSinkErator Power Series 3/4 HP
The InSinkErator Power Series 3/4 HP suits buyers who want 2 grind stages and a removable baffle. InSinkErator designed its 2-Stage MultiGrind system to grind scraps finer than Standard Series models.
InSinkErator Power Series 3/4 HP: Best for a two-stage grind
- 3/4 HP Dura-Drive induction motor
- 2-Stage MultiGrind
- Removable baffle
- 6-year limited service warranty
InSinkErator designed its two grind stages to grind scraps finer than the Standard Series. The removable baffle can be taken out for cleaning.
Pros
- 2-stage grind system
- Removable baffle
- 6-year limited service warranty
Cons
- Power cord sold separately
- Wider than the Badger 5
The Power Series includes an EZ Connect hardwire adapter, EZ Removable Dishwasher Inlet Plug and Lift and Latch features. A power cord is sold separately, so confirm your electrical setup before buying.
Its removable baffle allows easier cleaning, and InSinkErator describes its operation as quieter than standard disposals. The unit is 12 in tall and 8.25 in wide, making cabinet measurements useful before a replacement.
Choose the Power Series if a two-stage grind and reduced noise are priorities, and its connection setup suits your kitchen. Compare it with the Evolution 3/4 HP review if you are weighing the Advanced Series against the Power Series.
Moen Prep Series PRO Compact 1/2 HP
The Moen Prep Series PRO Compact 1/2 HP suits buyers who want a 1/2 HP replacement with a cord included. Its motor runs at 2,600 RPM, and its body measures 6.34 x 6.34 x 14.76 in.
Moen Prep Series PRO Compact 1/2 HP: Best for compact plug-in replacement
- 1/2 HP motor
- 2,600 RPM
- Pre-installed power cord
- 5-year limited warranty with in-home service
The compact 1/2 HP Moen has a pre-installed cord. Moen designed it to replace most existing disposals, including non-Moen brands, on compatible mounts.
Pros
- Pre-installed power cord
- Compact, lightweight design
- 5-year limited warranty with in-home service
Cons
- 1/2 HP motor
- Confirm mount compatibility before replacing
Moen says the model can replace most existing disposals, including non-Moen brands. It includes a pre-installed power cord and is designed to fit most existing 3-bolt assemblies, but check your current mount before ordering.
Moen describes it as suitable for properly sized septic tanks, so confirm suitability for your system before adding one. Moen provides a 5-year limited warranty with in-home service.
Choose it when a narrow body and a ready-to-plug cord matter, while allowing for its 14.76 in height. For a brand-level comparison, see InSinkErator vs Moen garbage disposals.
Moen L-3200 Waste King 3/4 HP
The Moen L-3200 Waste King 3/4 HP suits buyers seeking a 3/4 HP motor, attached cord and EZ Mount system. Its permanent magnet motor runs at 2,700 RPM.
Moen L-3200 Waste King 3/4 HP: Best for a corded EZ Mount setup
- 3/4 HP permanent magnet motor
- 2,700 RPM
- Pre-installed power cord
- 8-year limited warranty
The Waste King L-3200 combines a 3/4 HP motor, an EZ Mount system and an attached cord. Its body is 7.75 inches wide, so check room around the plumbing before choosing it.
Pros
- Pre-installed power cord
- EZ Mount system
- 8-year limited warranty
Cons
- Confirm height before ordering
- Mount style may differ from an existing unit
The L-3200 has sound insulation, stainless steel grind components and a removable splashguard for cleaning. It includes a power cord, installation instructions and the EZ Mount system.
The body is 7.75 in wide, but confirm its height before ordering because the supplied measurements differ. Waste King describes it as suitable for properly sized septic tanks and backs it with an 8-year limited warranty.
Choose it if the EZ Mount setup suits your sink and a corded 3/4 HP model fits your cabinet. For more options from the brand, see our Moen and Waste King disposal guide.
InSinkErator ES50 1/2 HP with Cord
The InSinkErator ES50 1/2 HP with Cord suits buyers who want an automatic reset feature and an attached cord. It has a single-stage grind and a MAGNADRIVE permanent magnet motor.
InSinkErator ES50 1/2 HP with Cord: Best for automatic overload reset
- MAGNADRIVE permanent magnet motor
- Single-stage grind
- Automatic reset function
- 4-year in-home full service limited warranty
The ES50 pairs a MAGNADRIVE motor with a cord and an automatic overload reset function. InSinkErator bases its 1/2 HP designation on laboratory peak motor output, not operational output at the disposal.
Pros
- Power cord included
- Automatic overload reset
- Lift and Latch installation
Cons
- Single-stage grind
- Taller than several picks here
InSinkErator bases the 1/2 HP designation on laboratory peak motor output, not operational output at the disposal. Avoid treating that figure as a direct measure of grinding performance against the other motors here.
The self-activating reset function automatically resets the disposer if it overloads. Its Quick Lock Mount is compatible with most three-bolt mounting assemblies, and InSinkErator's Lift and Latch feature is designed to simplify installation.
The ES50 stands 14 in tall, which is taller than several picks in this roundup. Check cabinet space and plumbing clearance before replacing an existing unit.
Choose the ES50 if you want a cord included and the automatic reset feature. If your disposal hums without spinning, switch it off and read our guide to why a garbage disposal hums but won't spin before attempting any troubleshooting.
What should you check before buying a garbage disposal?
Check the mount, power connection, cabinet clearance and household use before choosing a garbage disposal. These details help you decide whether a model fits your kitchen and daily scraps.
Does horsepower matter when choosing a disposal?
Horsepower is one comparison point, but grind stages and motor design matter too. The motor designations here range from 1/3 HP to 3/4 HP, though the ES50's figure specifically represents laboratory peak output.
Compare the motor with the grind system and your usual food scraps rather than choosing by horsepower alone. For a deeper look at motor sizing, read 1/2 HP vs 3/4 HP garbage disposals.
Should you choose continuous feed or batch feed?
Choose continuous feed if you want the feed type used by every model in this roundup. These units accept scraps while running; batch-feed models use a batch cover or stopper to activate operation.
Follow the operating instructions for the model you choose, and keep hands out of the disposal. Our batch-feed vs continuous-feed guide explains the difference.
How much space does a disposal need?
Allow enough room for the unit, plumbing, electrical connection and service access. Measure the height and width under your sink, including space around any dishwasher connection.
Compare the unit's dimensions with your cabinet before ordering. If you are replacing an old disposer, measure its current position and note where the drain outlet and wiring sit.
Is a garbage disposal with a power cord easier to install?
A corded disposal can connect to a compatible outlet under the sink without adding a separate cord. That simplifies the electrical connection, but you still need a compatible mount and drain setup.
For a hardwired connection, follow the model's installation instructions and use a qualified electrician if wiring changes are needed. Our power cord guide covers the plug-in and hardwired options.
Which garbage disposal should you choose?
Choose the Badger 5 for an everyday 1/2 HP model with a cord included. Pick the Evolution if quieter operation and 3 grind stages matter most, or the Badger 5XP for a corded 3/4 HP replacement.
If cabinet space or wiring may limit your options, start with the complete garbage disposal buying guide and confirm your mount and connection before choosing the best garbage disposal for your kitchen.
Our top 3 picks at a glance
-
1
Best for everyday kitchen scraps
InSinkErator Badger 5 with Power Cord
9.2/10 our score
See it on Amazon -
2
-
3
Best for a corded 3/4 HP upgrade
InSinkErator Badger 5XP with Power Cord
8.7/10 our score
See it on Amazon
Frequently asked questions
What horsepower garbage disposal should I choose?
A 1/2 HP disposal is a starting point for everyday food scraps. Consider 3/4 HP if you want more motor power, and compare grind stages, cabinet space and your household's usual scraps before choosing.
Horsepower alone doesn't tell you whether a model has quieter operation or multiple grind stages.
Is a power cord included with every garbage disposal?
No, some models include a factory-installed cord, while others include a hardwire adapter and sell the cord separately. Check the connection you already have under the sink before buying.
Our guide to garbage disposal power cords explains plug-in and hardwired setups.
Are garbage disposals interchangeable?
Not always. Mounting hardware, sink flange, electrical connection and available cabinet clearance can affect whether a replacement fits.
Several models here are designed for faster replacement on compatible mounts, but verify the connection and dimensions first. See what to check before replacing a garbage disposal for a practical checklist.
Do garbage disposals work with septic systems?
Compatibility depends on the disposal and septic system. InSinkErator specifies properly maintained systems for these models, while Moen and Waste King specify properly sized tanks.
Confirm suitability with your septic service provider before adding a disposal. Read our guide to using a garbage disposal with a septic tank for more context.
