Waste King L-8000 vs InSinkErator Evolution 1 HP

Garbage disposals make kitchen cleanup faster and easier by grinding food scraps before they ever reach your drain. Two of the most talked-about 1 HP disposals are the Waste King L-8000 and the InSinkErator Evolution Excel. While both bring plenty of power to your kitchen, they focus on different priorities—budget vs. premium, noise vs. speed, and durability vs. convenience.

This guide compares their features, performance, and overall value so you can confidently decide which unit best fits your kitchen and budget.

Waste King L-8000 1 HP, Continuous Feed Garbage Disposal

The Waste King L-8000 is a powerhouse on a budget, built for homeowners who want maximum performance without the premium price tag. Its high-speed, 2,800 RPM permanent magnet motor grinds quickly, reducing jams and handling tough scraps like fruit peels and small bones. Unlike the Evolution Excel, which prioritizes torque and multi-stage grinding, the L-8000 relies on speed, making it simple yet effective for everyday waste.

Installation is one of its biggest advantages. Thanks to the EZ-Mount twist-lock design and a pre-installed power cord, setup is much easier compared to the Excel, which usually requires hardwiring or an extra cord purchase. Noise, however, is where you feel the trade-off: the L-8000 is louder than the Excel’s ultra-quiet operation, though its short grind cycles make this tolerable. Considering its price point and a 20-year warranty that far outshines the Excel’s 10 years, the L-8000 offers outstanding long-term value for budget-conscious buyers.

InSinkErator Evolution 1 HP Garbage Disposal

The InSinkErator Evolution 1 HP is built for homeowners who want a premium blend of power and whisper-quiet performance. Its induction motor, combined with 4-stage MultiGrind® technology, pulverizes even the toughest scraps—like chicken bones, celery, and corn husks—into ultra-fine particles that minimize the risk of clogs. Compared to the Waste King L-8000’s single-stage system, the Evolution grinds more thoroughly and efficiently.

Installation is straightforward with the EZ Connect Hardwire Adapter and Lift & Latch mount, although it doesn’t include a pre-installed cord like the L-8000. You’ll find all essential parts in the box, including flange, gaskets, and stopper, while the Quiet Collar baffle helps minimize splash and dampen noise.

Where it really shines is in sound control. Thanks to SoundSeal insulation and anti-vibration mounts, it’s among the quietest disposals on the market. Even in open-concept kitchens, it runs quietly enough for normal conversation. Its compact footprint also saves space under the sink, leaving room for appliances like instant hot water dispensers. Backed by a 10-year in-home warranty, the Evolution 1 HP offers peace of mind along with luxury-level performance.

Waste King L-8000 vs InSinkErator Evolution 1 HP Comparison Table

Feature	Waste King L-8000	InSinkErator Evolution 1 HP
Motor Type	Permanent Magnet	Induction
Speed (RPM)	2800	1725
Grinding Stages	1	4 (MultiGrind®)
Noise Insulation	Basic foam lining	Advanced SoundSeal®
Installation System	EZ-Mount (tool-free)	Lift & Latch with EZ Connect
Power Cord	Included	Sold separately
Size/Weight	16.2″ tall / 12.7 lbs	12.25″ tall / 20.2 lbs
Warranty	20 years	10 years (in-home service)
Price Range	Budget (~$150–200)	Premium (~$350–400)

Waste King L-8000 vs InSinkErator Evolution: In-Depth Comparison

Motor Performance & Grinding Capability

The Waste King L-8000 uses a high-speed permanent magnet motor spinning at 2800 RPM, designed to reduce jams and grind waste quickly. Its single-stage grind chamber works well for everyday scraps like fruit peels, small bones, and leftovers.

The InSinkErator Evolution 1 HP, by contrast, runs at 1725 RPM with a durable induction motor but adds advanced technology. Its 4-Stage MultiGrind® system breaks down tough items like chicken bones, fibrous vegetables, and corn husks into ultra-fine particles. Paired with Jam-Sensor® and auto-reverse functions, the Evolution is smoother, more efficient, and far less likely to clog than the L-8000.

Noise Levels & User Experience

Noise is one of the biggest differences. The Evolution 1 HP is among the quietest disposals available, using SoundSeal® insulation, anti-vibration mounts, and a Quiet Collar baffle to cut noise dramatically. You can comfortably hold a conversation while it runs, even in open kitchens.

The Waste King L-8000 is noticeably louder. Foam insulation helps, but its high-speed motor has a distinctive whine. For most households, the noise is manageable since disposal cycles are short, but buyers sensitive to sound will find the Evolution much more pleasant to use.

Installation & Space Requirements

The L-8000 is taller (16.2″) and hangs lower under the sink but is relatively lightweight (12.7 lbs). Its EZ-Mount system and pre-installed power cord make DIY installation simple and fast.

The Evolution 1 HP is compact (12.25″ tall, 8.25″ wide) but heavier (20.2 lbs). Installation is sturdy with Lift & Latch mounting and EZ Connect Hardwire Adapter, but unlike the Waste King, it doesn’t include a power cord (sold separately). Still, its compact footprint saves more under-sink space, leaving room for other kitchen appliances.

Durability & Warranty

The Waste King L-8000 stands out with an impressive 20-year limited warranty, one of the longest in the industry. Its stainless steel components resist corrosion, and many owners report excellent reliability over years of use.

The Evolution 1 HP offers a 10-year “We Come to You” in-home service warranty, which includes free labor. While the term is shorter, the convenience of professional in-home service and its all-stainless grinding components make it a strong long-term investment.

Price & Value for Money

The L-8000 is a clear budget champion. At around $150–$200, it delivers 1 HP power and a 20-year warranty—an unbeatable deal for value-seekers.

The Evolution 1 HP, at $350–$400, is a premium model. Its near-silent operation, compact design, and advanced 4-stage grinding system justify the higher cost for busy households that value performance and peace in the kitchen.

Pros & Cons Summary

Pros & Cons of Waste King L-8000

Pros & Cons of InSinkErator Evolution 1 HP

Which One Should You Choose?

If your priority is quiet, premium performance and you don’t mind spending more, the InSinkErator Evolution Excel is the best choice. It’s whisper-quiet, powerful, and built to handle any food waste.

If you want the best value-for-money option, the Waste King L-8000 is hard to beat. It’s louder but offers incredible power, long-term durability, and a 20-year warranty at a fraction of the cost.

Further Reading:
Moen EX75C vs Badger 900: Which Garbage Disposal Is Right for You?
Moen vs. InSinkErator: Major Differences and Similarities
Waste King vs. InSinkErator: Comprehensive Garbage Disposal Comparison

Conclusion

Both the Waste King L-8000 and the InSinkErator Evolution 1 HP are excellent choices in the 1 HP garbage disposal category, but they serve different types of buyers.

If you’re looking for raw power, simplicity, and unbeatable long-term value, the Waste King L-8000 stands out. It’s louder and less refined, but at just over $100 with a 20-year warranty, it’s one of the best deals on the market. DIY homeowners will also love the easy installation and included power cord.

On the other hand, the InSinkErator Evolution 1 HP is ideal for households that want a premium, whisper-quiet disposal with advanced features. Its 4-Stage MultiGrind® system, Jam-Sensor, and SoundSeal® technology make it more efficient and far quieter than the Waste King. While it comes at a higher price and requires buying a separate power cord, the compact design and 10-year in-home service warranty make it worth the investment for many families.