Please note: Product details are based on our research at the time of writing and are subject to change. Always check Amazon for the latest details before purchasing.
Introduction
A garbage disposal is one of the most useful — and most replaced — appliances under your kitchen sink. Whether yours has finally given up after years of faithful service or you’re fitting one for the first time, the options on Amazon can feel overwhelming. InSinkErator, Moen, Waste King and GE each make continuous-feed models, and picking the wrong one often means doing the job twice when it doesn’t fit your mount or drain configuration, or has a smaller motor than your household needs.
This guide compares five garbage disposals sold in the US using their documented specifications: motor horsepower, mounting system, power cord, warranty and published dimensions, taken from the manufacturers’ own specification sheets, manuals and product pages. We did not install or run these units, so noise and installation time are not rated here, and manufacturer claims are described as claims. If your kitchen drain is chronically slow or clogged even with a disposal running, pair this guide with our how to unclog a kitchen sink guide and our roundup of the best drain snakes for backup clearing tools.
✏️ Our Take
These five differ mainly in motor size, mounting system, power cord and warranty. The InSinkErator Badger models use InSinkErator’s Quick Lock mount, described by the maker as made for replacing an existing InSinkErator disposer. Moen’s specification sheet says the GT50C fits most existing assemblies, including InSinkErator’s, and ships with a pre-installed removable cord. We have not installed any of them, so ease of installation is reported only as the manufacturers describe it.
IN THIS GUIDE
Quick Comparison Table
| Product | Best For | HP | Power Cord |
|---|---|---|---|
| InSinkErator Badger 5 1/2 HP | Swapping in for an existing InSinkErator disposer | 1/2 HP | Offered with or without; check listing |
| Waste King L-111 Compact | Smallest motor here; compact; cord pre-installed | 1/3 HP | Pre-installed |
| Moen Prep Series GT50C 1/2 HP | Fits most existing assemblies, per Moen | 1/2 HP | Pre-installed, removable |
| InSinkErator Badger 5XP 3/4 HP | Largest motor here; Quick Lock mount | 3/4 HP | Factory-installed on this listing |
| GE Disposall GFC525N 1/2 HP | EZ Mount; 7-year limited warranty | 1/2 HP | Line cord, 35 in |
The 5 Garbage Disposals — Specification Comparison
1. InSinkErator Badger 5 1/2 HP Garbage Disposal
The InSinkErator Badger 5 is a 1/2 HP continuous-feed disposal. InSinkErator’s product page describes a Quick Lock mount designed for fast replacement of an existing InSinkErator disposer, a 26 oz grinding chamber, and a unit that is septic-safe for properly maintained septic systems. At 11-1/2 inches overall it is the shortest of the five models here by the documented figures.
One thing to confirm before ordering: InSinkErator offers this model both with and without a factory-installed power cord, and the title of the listing this guide links to does not say a cord is included. Check the listing details. Warranty length is the other point to confirm: InSinkErator’s current product page and other sources give different figures for the Badger line, so check the current terms with InSinkErator before relying on one.
- 1/2 HP continuous feed
- 26 oz grinding chamber (InSinkErator)
- Quick Lock mount for replacing an existing InSinkErator disposer (InSinkErator)
- 11-1/2 inch overall height (InSinkErator)
- Septic-safe for properly maintained septic systems (InSinkErator)
- Offered with or without a factory-installed cord; check the listing
InSinkErator
InSinkErator Badger 5 Garbage Disposal, 1/2 HP Continuous Feed (listing model 79883-ISE)
Best for: Swapping in for an existing InSinkErator disposer
The InSinkErator Badger 5 is a 1/2 HP continuous-feed disposal.
2. Waste King L-111 Compact Garbage Disposal
The Waste King L-111 is a 1/3 HP continuous-feed disposal, the smallest motor in this guide. Waste King’s specification sheet lists a 1,900 RPM permanent-magnet motor, a pre-installed power cord and an EZ Mount twist-and-lock sink flange, with galvanized steel grinding components and a reinforced polymer grind chamber. It is 12-3/4 inches tall and weighs 7.5 lb.
Waste King describes the design as compact and lightweight; the same sheet lists no sound insulation for this model. A smaller motor suits lighter use, and Waste King’s warranty document lists items that should not go through its disposals, including large whole bones, clam and oyster shells and whole corn husks. The L-111 carries a two-year limited warranty; Waste King’s warranty document says it will replace the product or part (or, if that is not feasible, refund or credit the purchase price). Some retail listings describe this warranty as in-home service, which Waste King’s own document does not.
- 1/3 HP continuous feed; 1,900 RPM permanent-magnet motor (Waste King)
- Pre-installed power cord
- EZ Mount twist-and-lock sink flange
- 12-3/4 inch height; 7.5 lb
- Galvanized steel grinding components; reinforced polymer grind chamber
- Two-year limited warranty (replacement)
Waste King
Waste King L-111 Compact Garbage Disposal with Power Cord, 1/3 HP Continuous Feed
Best for: A compact 1/3 HP disposal with a pre-installed cord
The Waste King L-111 is a 1/3 HP continuous-feed disposal with a pre-installed power cord.
3. Moen Prep Series GT50C 1/2 HP Garbage Disposal
Moen’s specification sheet (revised March 2024) describes the Prep Series GT50C as a 1/2 HP continuous-feed disposal with a 2,600 RPM VORTEX motor, stainless steel and galvanized components, and a pre-installed removable power cord that can be taken off for hardwiring. Moen lists its FAST TRACK installation system, an easy-lift design that lets one hand mount the hardware while the other supports the unit, and an unjamming wrench in the box.
On mounting, the sheet says the GT50C fits most existing assemblies, including the InSinkErator brand, and installs on most existing 3-bolt assemblies; confirm that against your current mount and Moen’s installation instructions before you start. Moen lists a five-year limited warranty with in-home service. At 13-3/8 inches it is the tallest of the five documented heights, so check your cabinet clearance. Moen’s sheet gives no grind chamber capacity or noise rating, and we have not measured noise.
- 1/2 HP continuous feed; 2,600 RPM VORTEX motor (Moen)
- Pre-installed removable power cord
- FAST TRACK installation system (Moen)
- Fits most existing assemblies, including InSinkErator (Moen)
- Five-year limited warranty with in-home service (Moen)
- 13-3/8 inch height; safe for properly sized septic systems (Moen)
Moen
Moen Prep Series GT50C 1/2 HP Continuous Feed Garbage Disposal with Fast Track Technology
Best for: A corded 1/2 HP disposal that Moen says fits most existing assemblies
The Moen Prep Series GT50C is a 1/2 HP continuous-feed disposal.
4. InSinkErator Badger 5XP 3/4 HP with Cord
The InSinkErator Badger 5XP is the 3/4 HP model in this guide, with a Dura-Drive induction motor, a 26 oz grinding chamber and the Quick Lock mount design that InSinkErator describes for replacing an existing InSinkErator disposer. It is 12-5/8 inches tall and listed as septic-safe for properly maintained septic systems.
The listing linked here is the “W/C” version, which the listing describes as having a factory-installed power cord; InSinkErator offers this model with or without a cord. Warranty length is the point to check: InSinkErator’s 2021 installation manual lists four years for the Badger 5XP, while its current product page lists six, so confirm the current terms with InSinkErator before relying on either. A 3/4 HP motor is 50 percent more rated horsepower than a 1/2 HP model; the documents we reviewed give no grinding-performance comparison.
- 3/4 HP continuous feed; Dura-Drive induction motor (InSinkErator)
- 26 oz grinding chamber (InSinkErator)
- Quick Lock mount for replacing an existing InSinkErator disposer (InSinkErator)
- 12-5/8 inch overall height (InSinkErator)
- Factory-installed power cord on the W/C version this listing describes
- Septic-safe for properly maintained septic systems (InSinkErator)
InSinkErator
InSinkErator Badger 5XP Garbage Disposal with Power Cord, 3/4 HP Continuous Feed (Badger 5XP W/C)
Best for: The largest motor of the five, with InSinkErator's Quick Lock mount
The Badger 5XP W/C is a 3/4 HP continuous-feed disposal.
5. GE Disposall GFC525N 1/2 HP
GE’s specification sheet (revised May 2025) lists the GFC525N as a 1/2 HP continuous-feed disposer with over 2,600 RPM grinding action (a figure GE bases on its own RPM testing), stainless steel jam-resistant dual-swivel impellers, a 35-inch line cord, EZ Mount installation, a stainless steel sink flange and a wall switch with sink stopper. It is 12-11/16 inches tall.
GE lists a standard sound insulation package, a manual-reset overload protector and a seven-year limited warranty; its written warranty, which covers the GFC320, GFC325, GFC520 and GFC525 for seven years, has the full terms. GE’s documents give no grind chamber capacity and describe the mount as EZ Mount rather than 3-bolt, so compare it with your existing mount before ordering.
- 1/2 HP continuous feed; over 2,600 RPM grinding action (GE)
- Line cord, 35 in (GE)
- EZ Mount installation (GE)
- Standard sound insulation package (GE)
- Seven-year limited warranty (GE)
- 12-11/16 inch height
GE Appliances
GE Disposall GFC525N 1/2 HP Continuous Feed Garbage Disposer, Corded
Best for: A corded 1/2 HP disposer with EZ Mount installation
The GE Disposall GFC525N is a corded 1/2 HP continuous-feed disposer.
Garbage Disposal Buying Guide
How to Think About Motor Size (HP)
Motor power in garbage disposals is measured in horsepower (HP). The five models here run from 1/3 HP (Waste King L-111) through 1/2 HP (InSinkErator Badger 5, Moen GT50C and GE GFC525N) to 3/4 HP (InSinkErator Badger 5XP). None of the manufacturer documents we reviewed rates a model by household size, so treat horsepower as a rough guide: a larger motor gives more headroom if you put more through the disposal, while Waste King itself describes the smaller L-111 as a compact, lightweight unit. Whatever the motor, follow each maker’s list of items not to grind, such as large whole bones, shells and whole corn husks. If you are experiencing recurring slow drains, read our guide on how to unclog a kitchen sink before replacing the disposal — the drain itself may need attention.
Continuous Feed vs Batch Feed Disposals
Every model in this guide is a continuous feed disposal, which means it runs while the switch is on and you can feed waste in as it operates. Batch feed disposals work differently: you load the waste, then cover the drain opening with a special stopper to start the motor. For standard household use, the models here are all continuous feed, so that is the type this guide covers.
What Fits Under Your Sink — Size Considerations
Before buying any disposal, measure the available height under your sink between the bottom of the sink basin and the floor of the cabinet. The overall heights in the manufacturers’ documents are: InSinkErator Badger 5, 11-1/2 inches; InSinkErator Badger 5XP, 12-5/8 inches; GE GFC525N, 12-11/16 inches; Waste King L-111, 12-3/4 inches; and Moen GT50C, 13-3/8 inches. Also account for the drain pipe outlet location — the disposal outlet needs to clear your P-trap and connect cleanly to your drain line, so check that there is adequate horizontal space to one side.
InSinkErator, Moen, Waste King and GE — How the Documented Specs Compare
InSinkErator describes a Quick Lock mount on the Badger 5 and 5XP for replacing an existing InSinkErator disposer, and offers each model with or without a factory-installed cord, so check which version a listing is. Moen lists its FAST TRACK installation system, says the GT50C fits most existing assemblies including InSinkErator’s, and lists a pre-installed removable cord and a five-year limited warranty with in-home service. Waste King lists the L-111 at 1/3 HP with a pre-installed cord, an EZ Mount twist-and-lock flange and a two-year limited warranty. GE lists the GFC525N at 1/2 HP with a 35-inch line cord, EZ Mount installation and a seven-year limited warranty. For a direct swap with an existing InSinkErator unit, the InSinkErator models are described by their maker as made for that replacement, and Moen says the GT50C fits InSinkErator assemblies too. Also consider updating your kitchen faucets at the same time if you are already working under the sink.
When to Replace a Garbage Disposal
Manufacturers publish warranty periods rather than a service life, so there is no documented lifespan to quote here. Signs that it is time to replace rather than repair include persistent leaks from the body of the unit, frequent jamming despite clearing, motor humming without grinding (indicating a seized grind plate), or persistent drain odors that cleaning will not eliminate. Running cold water during and after operation, avoiding items the manufacturer says not to grind, and occasional cleaning with ice cubes or disposal cleaning tablets help keep a disposal in good working order. If you find yourself clearing jams frequently, see our best drain snakes guide for tools to help clear downstream blockages that over-worked disposals can contribute to.
Need a Professional Plumber?
Garbage disposal installation is a manageable DIY job for most homeowners, but if you are dealing with older plumbing, unusual drain configurations, or a failed electrical connection, calling a professional is the right call. Search PlumberArchive.com — the US plumber directory.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What HP garbage disposal do I need for a family of 4?
None of the manufacturer documents we reviewed rates a model by household size, so there is no documented answer by family size. The five models here range from 1/3 HP (Waste King L-111) through 1/2 HP (InSinkErator Badger 5, Moen GT50C, GE GFC525N) to 3/4 HP (InSinkErator Badger 5XP). A larger motor gives more headroom for a household that puts more through the disposal, and the smallest motor suits lighter use. Whichever you choose, follow the maker’s list of items not to grind.
Q: Is InSinkErator better than Waste King?
This guide compares documented specifications rather than rating one brand above another. On paper, the InSinkErator Badger models are 1/2 HP and 3/4 HP with a Quick Lock mount described by the maker for replacing an existing InSinkErator disposer, while the Waste King L-111 is 1/3 HP with a pre-installed cord, an EZ Mount twist-and-lock flange and a two-year limited warranty. Check which cord, mount and warranty each listing actually carries, and compare them with your existing mount and your cabinet height.
Q: How difficult is it to install a garbage disposal yourself?
We have not installed these models, so we can only describe what the manufacturers say. The process generally involves disconnecting the drain, removing the old unit, attaching the new mounting assembly to the sink flange, connecting the disposal body, wiring the power cord (or connecting to an existing switch), and attaching the drain outlet to your P-trap. Moen describes its FAST TRACK system as quicker to install, and Waste King describes its EZ Mount twist-and-lock flange as fast and easy; both are maker claims. The most common complication is mismatched drain connections — if your existing drain setup uses non-standard pipe sizes or configurations, you may need additional adapters. If you are not comfortable working with electrical connections under the sink, having a plumber handle the wiring portion is a sensible precaution. See PlumberArchive.com to find a licensed plumber in your area.
Q: How long does a garbage disposal last?
The manufacturers we reviewed publish warranty periods, not a service life. GE lists seven years for the GFC525N, Moen five years for the GT50C, and Waste King two years for the L-111; for the InSinkErator Badger models, check the current terms with InSinkErator, because its product page and its installation manual give different figures. Common causes of early failure include jamming from items the maker says not to grind, corrosion from leaving standing water in the chamber, and leaks at the sink flange that develop as the mounting seal degrades. Running cold water during and after use, cleaning the chamber regularly, and avoiding grease and starchy foods like pasta and rice help keep a disposal in working order. When a disposal develops persistent leaks from the body of the unit rather than the drain connection, or the motor hums without grinding, replacement is usually the practical choice.
Conclusion — Which Garbage Disposal Should You Buy?
The right choice depends mostly on your existing mount, whether you want a cord included, and how much motor you want. If you are replacing an InSinkErator unit, the InSinkErator Badger 5 (1/2 HP) and the Badger 5XP (3/4 HP) are described by InSinkErator as made for that swap, but check each listing for the cord and confirm the current warranty. If you want a pre-installed removable cord and a mount that Moen says fits most existing assemblies, including InSinkErator’s, look at the Moen GT50C. Check the height against your cabinet before you order, since it is the tallest of the five.
- InSinkErator Badger 5: 1/2 HP, Quick Lock mount, 26 oz chamber, 11-1/2 inches tall; cord offered with or without
- Waste King L-111: 1/3 HP, pre-installed cord, EZ Mount twist-and-lock, two-year limited warranty
- Moen GT50C: 1/2 HP, FAST TRACK, pre-installed removable cord, five-year limited warranty with in-home service
- InSinkErator Badger 5XP: 3/4 HP, Quick Lock mount, factory-installed cord on the W/C version
- GE Disposall GFC525N: 1/2 HP, EZ Mount, 35-inch line cord, seven-year limited warranty
Once your disposal is running well, it is worth checking that the rest of your kitchen plumbing is in good shape too. See our guide to the best kitchen faucets for a full kitchen sink upgrade, and keep a set of drain snakes on hand for any downstream blockages that develop over time. Before you buy, our continuous feed vs batch feed guide covers the key choice, and our step-by-step install guide walks through fitting it yourself.
✍️ About This Review
PTR Editorial Team — Product Reviews. We compare manufacturer specifications, installation requirements, compatibility and available product documentation to help homeowners choose suitable tools and parts. How we review →
