I’ve always believed that a good garbage disposal can make or break the kitchen workflow. Over the past few months, I had the opportunity to test two well-known names: Waste Maid 658 and InSinkErator Badger 5.
Both are reliable in their own right, but they’re built for slightly different kinds of users — one prioritizes raw grinding power, and the other emphasizes proven reliability and simplicity. After installing and using both, I’ve got some clear insights into which one might actually deserve a place under your sink.
Key Difference Between Waste Maid vs InSinkErator Garbage Disposal
The key difference between Waste Maid 658 and InSinkErator Badger 5 lies in power, build, and longevity.
Waste Maid is a high-powered, modern disposal with a 1.25 HP permanent magnet motor and stainless steel components designed for heavy use.
In contrast, the InSinkErator Badger 5 uses a ½ HP induction motor — it’s quieter, simpler, and aimed at households that need a dependable everyday performer without overkill power.
If you’re looking for brute strength, the Waste Maid is a beast. If you want something affordable and dependable, the Badger 5 remains a household classic.
- 1/3 HP COMPACT GARBAGE DISPOSAL: The Waste Maid Builder Series garbage disposer features a 1/3 horsepower 2400 RPM...
- RELIABLE and EASY INSTALL: Badger Series disposers are a reliable and functional choice when affordability is the prime...
Comparison Table: Waste Maid vs InSinkErator Garbage Disposal
| Feature | Waste Maid 658 | InSinkErator Badger 5 |
| Motor Power | 1.25 HP Permanent Magnet | 0.5 HP Dura-Drive Induction |
| Speed | 2800 RPM | 1725 RPM |
| Build Material | Stainless Steel Grinding System | Galvanized Steel Components |
| Anti-Jam System | Torque Master Anti-Jam | Standard Induction System |
| Mounting | 3-Bolt Easy Mount | Quick Lock Mount |
| Noise Level | Moderate-Quiet | Louder |
| Feed Type | Continuous Feed | Continuous Feed |
| Warranty | 12-Year / Lifetime Anti-Corrosion | 2-Year Limited |
| Ideal For | Heavy kitchen waste, frequent use | Everyday moderate use, smaller households |
| Check Latest Price & Deals | Buy on Amazon | Buy on Amazon |
My Detailed Comparative Review
Design & Build Quality
The first thing I noticed after unboxing both disposals was how different they feel.
The Waste Maid 658 is taller, heavier, and feels industrial. The black stainless-steel body gives it a premium look, and when I held the turntable, it felt sturdy and perfectly balanced. You can immediately tell this unit means business.
The InSinkErator Badger 5, on the other hand, is much more compact and lightweight. It’s not flashy — just a functional, space-saving design that easily fits under almost any sink. While it doesn’t look as premium, I appreciate its simple construction and reputation for lasting years with minimal maintenance.
So, if your cabinet space is limited, Badger 5 fits better. But if you want a more powerful, robust build, the Waste Maid feels far superior in materials and structure.
- 1/3 HP COMPACT GARBAGE DISPOSAL: The Waste Maid Builder Series garbage disposer features a 1/3 horsepower 2400 RPM...
- RELIABLE and EASY INSTALL: Badger Series disposers are a reliable and functional choice when affordability is the prime...
Installation Experience
Both use a 3-bolt mounting system, so installation was surprisingly easy.
The Waste Maid came with everything I needed — including pre-installed power cord and a balanced mounting system. The EZ Mount design made it easier to lock in place than I expected.
The InSinkErator Badger 5 also installs easily, especially if you’re replacing an older InSinkErator model (since it fits the same hardware). I swapped mine in under 20 minutes.
However, the Waste Maid’s slightly taller body required me to adjust my drainpipe alignment. Not a big issue, but something to keep in mind if you have a tight under-sink layout.
- 1/3 HP COMPACT GARBAGE DISPOSAL: The Waste Maid Builder Series garbage disposer features a 1/3 horsepower 2400 RPM...
Power and Performance
This is where the real difference begins.
The Waste Maid 658, with its 1.25 HP permanent magnet motor, runs at a blazing 2800 RPM. The first time I turned it on, I noticed how fast and cleanly it chewed through food scraps. Even fibrous materials like celery and potato peels vanished within seconds. I tossed in a few small chicken bones for testing — they were ground fine without a hiccup.
The InSinkErator Badger 5, powered by a ½ HP induction motor, is not nearly as aggressive. It handled softer waste like fruit peels, cooked leftovers, and small vegetable scraps well, but it struggled with tougher items. It occasionally needed an extra few seconds or a reset if I overloaded it.
That said, for normal household use — light food waste and day-to-day cleanup — it does the job perfectly fine. But if you cook daily or grind dense food frequently, you’ll appreciate the Waste Maid’s torque and grinding speed.
- RELIABLE and EASY INSTALL: Badger Series disposers are a reliable and functional choice when affordability is the prime...
Noise and Vibration
Noise is a major factor in my kitchen since the sink area is right next to the dining space.
The Waste Maid 658 surprised me. Even with its power, it wasn’t unbearably loud. The Torque Master system actually reduces vibration, and while it hums strongly, it doesn’t rattle the sink or echo like cheaper disposals.
The Badger 5, however, is noticeably louder. It’s not unbearable, but the grinding sound is sharper. You’ll know it’s running, and conversation nearby becomes tricky.
If you want peace and quiet while cooking or cleaning, Waste Maid wins here.
- 1/3 HP COMPACT GARBAGE DISPOSAL: The Waste Maid Builder Series garbage disposer features a 1/3 horsepower 2400 RPM...
Durability & Maintenance
Over a few months, the Waste Maid’s stainless steel components have shown zero corrosion. The lifetime corrosion warranty gave me peace of mind — it’s something few brands offer.
The InSinkErator Badger 5, on the other hand, uses galvanized steel. While durable, it’s more prone to rust over time, especially if you don’t run it frequently or if you grind citrus often. Still, I’ve known households that have used Badger 5 for over five years without issues.
Maintenance-wise, both are easy — I clean them monthly with ice cubes and citrus peels. The Waste Maid’s internal chamber is smoother, so food residue doesn’t stick much.
Price & Value
This is where things balance out.
The Waste Maid 658 costs more upfront, but you’re getting premium features: higher horsepower, better build, quieter operation, and a 12-year warranty. If you’re after long-term reliability, it’s worth every penny.
The Badger 5 is cheaper and offers great value if you’re on a budget or don’t need industrial-level performance. It’s the best “set it and forget it” model for smaller families.
Waste Maid 658 Garbage Disposal
- 1/3 HP COMPACT GARBAGE DISPOSAL: The Waste Maid Builder Series garbage disposer features a 1/3 horsepower 2400 RPM...
Pros:
- Powerful 1.25 HP motor handles all waste types
- Stainless steel components resist corrosion
- Anti-jam Torque Master system
- Quieter than expected for its size
- Long 12-year warranty and lifetime corrosion protection
Cons:
- More expensive
- Larger body may not fit under smaller sinks
InSinkErator Badger 5 Garbage Disposal
- RELIABLE and EASY INSTALL: Badger Series disposers are a reliable and functional choice when affordability is the prime...
Pros:
- Compact and space-efficient
- Simple installation, especially for replacements
- Affordable and reliable
- Great for moderate, everyday use
Cons:
- Louder operation
- Galvanized steel parts prone to corrosion
- Struggles with tougher waste
- Shorter 2-year warranty
My Recommendation & Final Verdict
After using both, my conclusion is simple:
If you want power, quiet performance, and long-term durability, go with the Waste Maid 658. It’s a heavy-duty unit designed to last and handle whatever your kitchen throws at it. I could grind tough leftovers without a second thought, and the sound level stayed impressively low.
But if you’re just looking for a budget-friendly and dependable disposal for light use, the InSinkErator Badger 5 is a classic choice. It’s affordable, easy to install, and perfect for small households or apartments.
For me, the Waste Maid stays. It’s more powerful, better built, and feels like a modern upgrade over the Badger 5’s traditional design. But if you’re replacing an old unit and want a quick, affordable fix — you can’t go wrong with InSinkErator either.
