This is mainly a choice between a compact tank machine and a wider faucet-connected format. The HAVA can be filled by pitcher, while the Danby uses a quick-connect setup. That difference matters more than a long list of wash modes when the kitchen has an incompatible faucet or only a short usable counter.
The quick decision
Which would we choose?
HAVA is the more relevant starting point for manual filling and a smaller footprint. Danby makes more sense when a larger daily rack load justifies the extra counter space and the faucet is compatible.
These are editorial selections from the models compared, based on manufacturer documentation. We have not hands-on tested them or measured performance, reliability, or noise. Confirm the exact model, installation instructions, seller, availability, and returns before purchase. “Best” refers to the use cases within this shortlist, rather than a market-wide ranking. Research checked October 18, 2026.
Compare the models at a glance
Product dimensions exclude operating clearances. Dimensions are in inches; W = width, D = depth, H = height, L = length. Unlabeled brand dimensions are kept in their published order.
| Model | Size | Format | Best fit | Current offer |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HAVA R01 | 16.9 W × 16.9 D × 18.1 H in | Built-in 5 L water tank | tank filling on a narrow counter | Check Amazon |
| Danby DDW621WDB | 21.65 W × 19.69 D × 17.24 H in | 6 place settings | a larger countertop rack | Check Amazon |
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The shortlist
What each choice gives you
Best for tank filling on a narrow counter
HAVA R01
16.9 W × 16.9 D × 18.1 H in · Built-in 5 L water tank
A manually filled tank avoids depending on a compatible faucet connector. The compact square body suits a short stretch of counter, especially when a wider six-place-setting dishwasher would displace the kitchen's main preparation area.
You still need a drain destination and space to fill it. The brand lists a 29.2-inch front-to-back length with the door open; plate size and rack layout can limit a load before the machine looks full.
Best for a larger countertop rack
Danby DDW621WDB
21.65 W × 19.69 D × 17.24 H in · 6 place settings
The larger rack is worth considering when plates, mugs, and utensils accumulate through the day. Its lower body can also be useful beneath a wall cabinet, provided the entire installation and hose route meet the manual.
It occupies a wider, deeper patch of counter and requires a compatible faucet connection. Six place settings describe a standardized arrangement, not a promise that six people's pots and dinner dishes fit.
Counter width favors HAVA; body height favors Danby
The HAVA is narrower and shallower in the linked specifications, but it is taller. That makes an under-cabinet measurement essential even when its smaller footprint looks promising. The Danby's lower body can suit some overhead constraints while requiring more width. Neither set of cabinet dimensions includes every loading and connection clearance.
The faucet decides more than the control panel
If your faucet cannot accept the required connector, the Danby setup needs resolving before purchase. The HAVA's tank lets you bypass that particular connection, though you still need to carry water and route the drain. Avoid interpreting installation-free marketing as permission to place a wet appliance anywhere. Check the exact installation instructions for the operating location.
Compare rack use with one real meal
Write down the dishes from a normal dinner and the next breakfast. That list gives a more useful target than the number of people in the apartment. HAVA's smaller interior makes plate geometry especially important. The Danby's larger rack may reduce load splitting, but neither countertop format guarantees space for the pan used to cook the meal.
Our decision rule
Choose HAVA when preserving a working patch of counter or avoiding a faucet adapter is the priority. Choose Danby when the faucet is suitable and rack capacity matters more. If the machine blocks the sink, prevents ordinary food preparation, or leaves no loading position, revisit the layout before choosing either. A dishwasher should improve the kitchen's routine as well as occupy a smaller cabinet.
Before you choose
Common questions
Does a tank dishwasher need a sink?
It needs a manufacturer-approved drain destination. Manual tank filling removes reliance on a faucet supply connection, not the need to dispose of wash water.
Can I leave either in a closed cabinet?
Do not assume that a countertop model permits enclosed installation. Use the exact manual's location, access, and clearance requirements.
Sources and how we chose
We compared the exact models below using their brand specifications and setup information. Recommendations reflect our interpretation of those documents for small-space use. They do not represent hands-on testing, customer ratings, or a measured performance ranking.
- HAVA R01: manufacturer specifications and support
- Danby DDW621WDB: manufacturer specifications and support
We omit live prices because offers change. No star ratings or review scores have been assigned. Read our full methodology.
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