I’ve replaced enough garbage disposals over the years to know that not all of them are created equal. Some struggle with fibrous waste, others sound like a jet engine, and a few just don’t last as long as they should. But when it comes to reliability and long-term value, InSinkErator’s Badger series consistently lands at the top of my list.
Recently, I had the chance to install and test both the InSinkErator Badger 5 and its more powerful sibling, the Badger 5XP. They look nearly identical at first glance, but after weeks of use, I can tell you there are real differences that could sway your buying decision depending on your kitchen needs.
Let’s get into the details and see which model deserves that spot under your sink.
Key Difference Between InSinkErator Badger 5 vs 5XP Garbage Disposal
The key difference between the InSinkErator Badger 5 and Badger 5XP lies in motor power and performance capability.
- The Badger 5 features a 1/2 horsepower (HP) Dura-Drive induction motor, making it ideal for small households or moderate kitchen use.
- The Badger 5XP, on the other hand, is equipped with a 3/4 horsepower (HP) motor, offering stronger grinding performance for larger families or those who cook frequently.
In simpler terms:
👉 The Badger 5 is the practical, budget-friendly option for light use.
👉 The Badger 5XP is the muscle version, better for heavy food waste and daily cooking routines.
- RELIABLE and EASY INSTALL: Badger Series disposers are a reliable and functional choice when affordability is the prime...
- BADGER 5XP 3/4 HP GARBAGE DISPOSAL W/ CORD: 12.63-inch height, 6.31-inch width InSinkErator garbage disposal; includes...
Comparison Table: InSinkErator Badger 5 vs 5XP Garbage Disposal
| Feature | InSinkErator Badger 5 | InSinkErator Badger 5XP |
| Motor Power | 1/2 HP Dura-Drive Induction Motor | 3/4 HP Dura-Drive Induction Motor |
| Grinding Components | Galvanized steel | Galvanized steel |
| Feed Type | Continuous feed | Continuous feed |
| Build Material | Plastic and metal | Plastic and stainless-steel accents |
| Capacity | Standard | Larger food capacity |
| Noise Level | Moderate | Slightly quieter |
| Dimensions | Compact | Slightly taller and heavier |
| Installation | Easy, fits existing InSinkErator mounts | Easy, fits existing InSinkErator mounts |
| Warranty | 2 years | 4 years |
| Best For | Small households or light usage | Medium to large households or frequent cooking |
| Check Latest Price & Deals | Buy on Amazon | Buy on Amazon |
Design and Build Quality
Both disposals share the same basic cylindrical design and classic black-gray finish that InSinkErator is known for. Installation is straightforward thanks to the Quick Lock mount system, which I’ve always appreciated — it makes swapping units a 20-minute job, tops.
However, the Badger 5XP has a slightly sturdier feel to it. The extra stainless-steel elements and its larger motor give it a more robust structure. It’s about an inch taller and a bit heavier than the Badger 5, but not enough to make installation tricky.
If space under your sink is tight, the Badger 5 wins for compactness. But if you have room to spare, the 5XP’s upgraded build feels a bit more premium and solid over time.
- RELIABLE and EASY INSTALL: Badger Series disposers are a reliable and functional choice when affordability is the prime...
- BADGER 5XP 3/4 HP GARBAGE DISPOSAL W/ CORD: 12.63-inch height, 6.31-inch width InSinkErator garbage disposal; includes...
Installation and Ease of Use
I installed both units personally, and in terms of setup, they’re equally user-friendly. The Badger 5XP fit right into the same mounting bracket used by the Badger 5, which was a pleasant surprise — no need for any extra parts or adjustments.
Both come with a pre-installed power cord, which saves you the hassle of wiring. That alone can save you time and the cost of hiring an electrician.
As for day-to-day use, both are continuous feed models, which means you can keep adding food scraps while the unit runs. That’s convenient when cleaning up after dinner — no need to stop and restart the unit every time you toss something in.
- RELIABLE and EASY INSTALL: Badger Series disposers are a reliable and functional choice when affordability is the prime...
Performance and Grinding Power
Now here’s where I really noticed the difference.
The Badger 5 handles typical food scraps like fruit peels, small bits of cooked meat, and bread crumbs without breaking a sweat. For smaller households, it performs reliably — I never experienced clogs or jamming as long as I ran cold water during operation.
But when I switched to the Badger 5XP, the improvement in power was immediately noticeable. The 3/4 HP motor simply grinds faster and more efficiently. Things like chicken bones, vegetable stems, and denser food waste that slightly challenged the Badger 5 were no match for the 5XP.
I also found the 5XP to be quieter in operation. It’s not silent, but the difference in vibration and sound level was clear. If you have an open kitchen layout, this might matter more than you think.
In short:
- Badger 5: Dependable for small loads, best for everyday scraps.
- Badger 5XP: More powerful, smoother, and better for heavy-duty grinding.
- BADGER 5XP 3/4 HP GARBAGE DISPOSAL W/ CORD: 12.63-inch height, 6.31-inch width InSinkErator garbage disposal; includes...
Maintenance and Durability
Both disposals use galvanized steel grinding components, which are durable enough for long-term use. However, if you’re the kind of person who uses your disposal multiple times a day, I’d lean toward the Badger 5XP, as its stronger motor is built for heavier workloads.
Cleaning and maintenance are the same for both models. I typically run a mix of ice cubes and citrus peels through mine once a week — keeps the blades sharp and the unit smelling fresh.
Warranty-wise, the 5XP offers double the coverage (4 years vs. 2 years). That alone adds peace of mind and justifies the price difference for many buyers.
- RELIABLE and EASY INSTALL: Badger Series disposers are a reliable and functional choice when affordability is the prime...
Noise Levels
Neither of these units is marketed as a “quiet” disposal like InSinkErator’s Evolution series, but I found the Badger 5XP to produce slightly less rattling noise. The stronger motor grinds more efficiently, so it doesn’t struggle as much with tougher waste, which reduces the noise factor.
Still, if sound is your top priority, you might need to step up to a higher-end line. For everyday use, though, both are perfectly tolerable — no earplugs required.
Value and Price Perspective
This is where the decision becomes personal.
The InSinkErator Badger 5 is one of the best budget-friendly disposals out there. It’s reliable, compact, and does exactly what it promises — no frills, just performance. For small families or apartments, it’s an easy recommendation.
The Badger 5XP, however, adds that extra layer of power, longevity, and quieter operation. Yes, it costs a bit more, but if you’re running your disposal multiple times daily or cooking a lot, it’s well worth the upgrade.
In my opinion:
- If you want affordability and simplicity, go for the Badger 5.
- If you prefer more power, less noise, and longer warranty, the Badger 5XP wins easily.
InSinkErator Badger 5 Garbage Disposal
- RELIABLE and EASY INSTALL: Badger Series disposers are a reliable and functional choice when affordability is the prime...
Pros:
- Affordable and widely available
- Compact design fits most sinks
- Easy to install with Quick Lock mount
- Dependable for light to medium use
Cons:
- Less powerful motor
- Louder operation
- Shorter 2-year warranty
InSinkErator Badger 5XP Garbage Disposal
- BADGER 5XP 3/4 HP GARBAGE DISPOSAL W/ CORD: 12.63-inch height, 6.31-inch width InSinkErator garbage disposal; includes...
Pros:
- More powerful 3/4 HP motor
- Quieter and smoother operation
- Longer 4-year warranty
- Handles tougher food waste effortlessly
Cons:
- Slightly higher price
- Slightly bulkier size
Final Verdict: My Recommendation
After putting both disposals through weeks of real-world use, my verdict is simple: the Badger 5XP is the smarter long-term investment.
The Badger 5 is an excellent entry-level option — no doubt. It gets the job done quietly (well, almost quietly), installs easily, and is perfect for small households. But the Badger 5XP just feels more capable and refined. The stronger motor, reduced noise, and extended warranty make it a disposal that can handle anything I throw at it — literally.
If you’re upgrading your kitchen and want something that’ll last for years without struggling, go with the Badger 5XP. But if you just want reliable waste disposal on a budget, the Badger 5 will serve you faithfully too.
Either way, you’ll be joining millions of homeowners who trust InSinkErator — America’s #1 disposer brand for a reason.
