Moen EX75C vs Badger 900: Which Garbage Disposal Is Right for You?
Garbage disposals have become an essential appliance in today’s kitchens, making food prep and cleanup much easier by efficiently grinding food waste and reducing the risk of drain clogs. With so many models on the market, choosing the right one can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to top contenders like the Moen EX75C and Badger 900.
Both disposals are highly rated in the 3/4 HP category and are designed to handle the demands of busy households. This comparison guide will break down their features, performance, and overall value, helping you make an informed decision that suits your kitchen’s needs and your budget.
Moen EX75C EX Series 3/4 HP Garbage Disposal
- Powerful Motor: High speed 2700 RPM VORTEX permanent magnet motor designed to reduce jamming.
- Quiet Operation: SoundSHIELD designed to provide sound deadening insulation.
- Easy Installation: FAST TRACK enhanced features for faster installation.
- Continuous Feed: grinds food waste continuously.
- Warranty: Backed by a 7-year limited warranty with in-home service.
The Moen EX75C is a standout in the world of garbage disposals, offering a blend of power, quiet operation, and user-friendly features. At its core, it boasts a 3/4 HP VORTEX™ permanent magnet motor, which spins at an impressive 2700 RPM. This high-speed motor is designed to grind food waste quickly and efficiently, reducing the chances of jams and blockages.
One of its most appreciated features is the SoundSHIELD™ noise insulation, which significantly decreases the sound produced during operation, making it ideal for open-concept kitchens or homes where noise is a concern. Installation is also a breeze thanks to the Fast Track™ system and a pre-installed power cord, which saves both time and effort.
The grinding components are made from stainless steel, ensuring long-term durability and resistance to corrosion. With a generous 10-year warranty, the Moen EX75C provides peace of mind and demonstrates the manufacturer’s confidence in its product. This model is perfect for homeowners looking for a reliable, quiet, and easy-to-install garbage disposal.
InSinkerator Badger 900 3/4 HP Continuous Feed Garbage Disposal
- Powerful Motor: High speed 2700 RPM VORTEX permanent magnet motor designed to reduce jamming.
- Quiet Operation: SoundSHIELD designed to provide sound deadening insulation.
- Easy Installation: FAST TRACK enhanced features for faster installation.
- Continuous Feed: grinds food waste continuously.
- Warranty: Backed by a 10-year limited warranty with in-home service.
The Badger 900, produced by InSinkErator, is another popular choice among homeowners and contractors alike. It features a robust 3/4 HP DuraDrive induction motor, which operates at 1725 RPM. While it doesn’t spin as fast as the Moen EX75C, the induction motor is known for its durability and consistent performance over time.
The Badger 900 uses the Quick Lock® mounting system, making it compatible with many existing InSinkErator setups and simplifying the installation process. Its grinding chamber is constructed from galvanized steel, while the grinding components are stainless steel, offering a good balance of strength and affordability. Although it lacks advanced noise insulation, many users find its operation satisfactory for daily use.
The Badger 900 is compact, making it an excellent option for kitchens with limited under-sink space. Its 6-year warranty is competitive for its price range, and overall, it’s a dependable, budget-friendly disposal that gets the job done without unnecessary frills.
Moen EX75C vs Badger 900: Feature Comparison Table
| Feature | Moen EX75C | Badger 900 |
|---|---|---|
| Motor Type | Permanent Magnet | Induction |
| Speed (RPM) | 2700 | 1725 |
| Noise Insulation | Yes (SoundSHIELD™) | No |
| Installation System | Fast Track™ | Quick Lock® |
| Grinding Chamber | Polymer | Galvanized Steel |
| Warranty | 7 Years | 6 Years |
| Power Cord Included | Yes | No |
| Price Range | Premium | Budget |
This side-by-side comparison table highlights the most important differences and similarities between the Moen EX75C and Badger 900. As you can see, the Moen EX75C offers a faster, more modern motor, noise insulation, and a longer warranty, but comes at a higher price point. The Badger 900, on the other hand, is more affordable, compact, and compatible with many existing setups, making it a practical choice for those who want reliable performance without extra features.
Moen EX75C vs Badger 900: In-Depth Comparison
Motor Performance & Speed
The motor is the heart of any garbage disposal, and the differences between these two models are significant. The Moen EX75C’s permanent magnet motor operates at a much higher speed—2700 RPM—compared to the Badger 900’s 1725 RPM induction motor. This increased speed allows the Moen EX75C to grind food waste into finer particles more quickly, which not only reduces the risk of clogs but also helps prevent jams.
Noise Levels
The Moen EX75C comes equipped with SoundSHIELD™ insulation, which significantly reduces the noise produced during operation. Many users report that it’s one of the quietest disposals they’ve ever owned. This makes it a great choice for families who value a peaceful home environment or those who often entertain guests in the kitchen.
In contrast, the Badger 900 does not feature advanced noise insulation, so it tends to be louder when in use. While the sound level is still manageable for most users, those who are sensitive to noise or have young children may prefer the quieter operation of the Moen EX75C.
Installation Process
Both the Moen EX75C and Badger 900 are designed with user-friendly installation in mind, but there are some differences that could influence your decision. The Moen EX75C features the Fast Track™ installation system, which simplifies the setup process and includes a pre-installed power cord—saving you the hassle of wiring it yourself.
The Badger 900 uses the Quick Lock® mounting system, which is compatible with many existing InSinkErator setups, making it easy to upgrade from an older model. However, it does not include a power cord, so you may need to purchase one separately or reuse your existing cord.
Durability & Build Quality
Durability is a key consideration when investing in a garbage disposal, as you want a unit that will withstand years of daily use. The Moen EX75C features stainless steel grinding components and a corrosion-resistant polymer grinding chamber, which helps prevent rust and extends the life of the unit.
The Badger 900 also uses stainless steel for its grinding components, but its grinding chamber is made from galvanized steel. While galvanized steel is strong and cost-effective, it is more susceptible to corrosion over time compared to polymer. Both models are built to last, but the Moen EX75C may offer better long-term durability.
Size & Fit
Space under the sink can be limited, especially in smaller kitchens or older homes. The Badger 900 is known for its compact design, measuring approximately 12.63″ in height and 6.75″ in width, making it an excellent option for tight spaces or for those who want to maximize storage under the sink.
The Moen EX75C is slightly larger, with dimensions around 14.375″ in height and 7.5″ in width, so it may require a bit more room beneath the sink. However, it still fits comfortably in most standard kitchen cabinets. If space is a primary concern, the Badger 900 may be the better choice, but for most homeowners, either model should fit without major modifications.
Price & Value
Budget is often a deciding factor when choosing a garbage disposal. The Moen EX75C is positioned as a premium product, offering advanced features like a high-speed motor, noise insulation, and a longer warranty. While it comes at a higher price, many users find the investment worthwhile for the added convenience and peace of mind.
The Badger 900, on the other hand, is more budget-friendly and delivers reliable performance without the extra bells and whistles. It’s an excellent value for those who need a dependable disposal at a lower cost.
User Experiences & Reviews
Feedback from real users provides valuable insight into how these disposals perform in everyday situations. Owners of the Moen EX75C frequently praise its quiet operation and hassle-free installation, noting that it makes a noticeable difference in kitchen noise levels. Many also appreciate the powerful grinding action and the peace of mind offered by the long warranty.
The Badger 900 receives high marks for its reliability, ease of installation, and compact size. Users often mention that it’s a great value for the price and performs well for standard kitchen waste. The main criticism is its noise level, which some find to be louder than expected. Overall, both models have strong reputations, with the Moen EX75C standing out for its quiet performance and the Badger 900 for its affordability and dependability.
Pros & Cons Summary
Pros & Cons of Moen EX75C
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Cons
Pros & Cons of Badger 900
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Cons
Which One Should You Choose?
Choosing between the Moen EX75C and Badger 900 depends on your specific needs and priorities. If you value a quieter kitchen, faster grinding, and a longer warranty—and are willing to pay a bit more—the Moen EX75C is the superior choice. Its features are tailored for those who want the best in performance and convenience.
On the other hand, if you’re looking for a dependable, budget-friendly option that fits easily under the sink and handles everyday kitchen waste with ease, the Badger 900 is an excellent pick. It’s particularly well-suited for smaller kitchens or those replacing an existing InSinkErator disposal.
Further Reading:
Waste King vs. InSinkErator: Comprehensive Garbage Disposal Comparison
Moen vs. InSinkErator: Major Differences and Similarities
Badger 5 vs Badger 500 vs Badger 5XL Garbage Disposals
Badger 1 Vs. Badger 5 – Detailed Comparison With Installation Guide
Conclusion
In summary, both the Moen EX75C and Badger 900 are top-tier 3/4 HP garbage disposals that cater to different needs. The Moen EX75C stands out for its quiet, powerful performance and user-friendly features, making it a great investment for those who want the best. The Badger 900, meanwhile, is a practical, cost-effective solution that delivers reliable results without unnecessary extras. By weighing the features, benefits, and drawbacks of each model, you can confidently choose the disposal that fits your kitchen, lifestyle, and budget.
