Side-by-side comparison based on expert reviews and community consensus.
Honeywell Smart Portable 50-Pint Dehumidifier
Best for BasementsWhynter Energy Star RPD-506EWP 50-Pint Dehumidifier
Best for DurabilityPrice
$250-$300
$250-$320
Summary
WIRED's top pick for basements with smart home connectivity and a large tank. Fast, quiet, and easy to roll between rooms thanks to built-in wheels.
Reddit's r/BuyItForLife community specifically called this out for its balance of capacity, noise level, and built-in pump — a sign it's built to last.
Pros
- WIRED's top pick for basements at $270
- Large tank capacity with laundry drying mode
- Wheels make it easy to move room to room
- Smart connectivity for remote monitoring and control
- Specifically recommended on r/BuyItForLife for long-term reliability
- Built-in drainage pump eliminates manual tank emptying
- Energy Star certified for lower operating costs
- Good balance of 50-pint capacity with manageable noise levels
Cons
- More expensive than the Midea Cube
- Smart features may be overkill for simple basement use
- Larger footprint than cube-style designs
- Less widely reviewed than Midea or Frigidaire options
- Higher price point than comparable capacity competitors
- Harder to find in stock at major retailers
Our take
If you want smart controls and don't mind paying a bit more, the Honeywell is a serious machine — WIRED testers loved the laundry mode and portability.
When the BuyItForLife subreddit recommends something, pay attention. The built-in pump is a genuine differentiator that saves you from manually emptying the tank.
Buy
