For homeowners looking to upgrade their kitchen garbage disposal unit, InSinkErator is often the first name that comes to mind. As the world’s largest manufacturer of food waste disposers, they offer a machine for every household need and budget. However, choosing the right model can be confusing.
InSinkErator categorizes their main residential units into three distinct product lines: the Badger Series, the Power Series, and the Evolution Series (often known as the Advanced line). This guide breaks down the technology, performance, and ideal use-cases for each to help you make the right choice.
1. The Badger Series: The Standard Solution
The Badger series is the entry-level line from InSinkErator. It is ubiquitous in the United States, often the default choice for home builders and landlords due to its affordability and reliability.
- Best For: First-time buyers, rental properties, vacation homes, and households with light food waste.
- Key Feature: Compact size. These units save valuable space under the sink.
- Performance: These models typically range from 1/3 to 3/4 Horsepower (HP). They use a standard 1-Stage Grind Technology, meaning they can handle soft foods (vegetables, fruits) but struggle with fibrous or hard scraps like bones or potato peels.
- Build Quality: They utilize galvanized steel grinding components. While durable, galvanized steel is more prone to corrosion over time compared to stainless steel.
2. The Power Series: The Mid-Range Upgrade
Sitting comfortably between the budget and premium lines is the Power Series. This is the newest category categorization by InSinkErator, designed to offer a significant step up from the Badger without the premium price tag of the Advanced line.
- Best For: Daily cooks, average-sized families, and those replacing an old Badger unit who want more durability.
- Key Feature: GrindShear Ring. This technology allows the unit to grind more difficult foods than the Badger series.
- Performance: Motors here are more robust, typically offering 3/4 HP. Like the Badger, they generally use 1-Stage Grinding, but the motors are torquier and stronger.
- Build Quality: A major upgrade here is the use of Stainless Steel grind components, significantly extending the lifespan of the unit by resisting rust.
3. The Evolution Series (Advanced): The Premium Choice
The Advanced Series (encompassing the Evolution models) represents the top tier of food waste technology. These are designed for modern, high-end kitchens where performance and silence are paramount.
- Best For: Large families, serious home chefs, open-concept kitchens (where noise is an issue), and homes on septic systems.
- Key Feature: SoundSeal Technology. These units are engineered with insulation and anti-vibration mounts, making them drastically quieter than the Badger or Power series.
- Performance: Ranging from 3/4 HP to 1.0 HP, these are the heavyweights. They utilize Multi-Stage Grinding (2-stage or 3-stage). This allows them to liquefy almost anything, including chicken bones, celery, and fruit pits.
- Build Quality: They feature premium Stainless Steel alloy components and leak-guard protection.
Comparison: What Sets Them Apart?
The following table highlights the critical functional differences that influence price and performance.
InSinkErator Badger vs. Power vs. Evolution: Key Differences
| Feature | Badger Series | Power Series | Evolution Series |
| Market Position | Economy / Entry-Level | Mid-Range Performance | Premium Luxury |
| Horsepower Range | 1/3 HP – 3/4 HP | 3/4 HP | 3/4 HP – 1.0 HP |
| Grind Stages | 1-Stage (Basic) | 1-Stage (Enhanced) | 2 or 3-Stage (Advanced) |
| Noise Level | Loud (Standard) | Moderate (Standard Sound) | Very Quiet (SoundSeal® Tech) |
| Grind Components | Galvanized Steel | Stainless Steel | Stainless Steel |
| Can Grind Bones? | No / Not Recommended | Small bones only | Yes (Chicken/Beef bones) |
| Warranty | 1–3 Years | 4 Years | 7–10 Years |
Similarities: The InSinkErator DNA
Despite their differences in power and refinement, all three series share the core engineering DNA that makes InSinkErator an industry leader.
Key Similarities
| Feature | Description |
| Induction Motors | All series use heavy-duty Dura-Drive® induction motors, which are generally more reliable and maintenance-free compared to permanent magnet motors used by competitors. |
| Quick Lock® Sink Mount | Every InSinkErator model uses the same “twist-on, twist-off” mounting system. If you are upgrading from a Badger to an Advanced model, you do not need to replace the sink flange; the new unit will lock right onto the existing mount. |
| Continuous Feed | All standard models in these series operate continuously while the switch is on (as opposed to batch feed). |
| Septic Safety | Properly used, all models are safe for standard septic systems (though the Advanced series grinds finer, making it the safest option). |
| Power Cord | Most models in all three series are sold as “hardwire ready,” meaning you often have to buy the power cord kit separately (unless marked as “Corded”). |
Detailed Feature Breakdown
1. Grind Technology
- 1-Stage (Badger): Food is spun against a stationary grind ring. It breaks food down into small chunks.
- 2-Stage (Power): After the initial grind, the food goes through a second shear ring that cuts it into much finer particles.
- 3 & 4-Stage (Evolution Models): Includes an undercut disc that cuts food again, practically liquefying it. This is essential for preventing clogs in older plumbing.
2. Noise Reduction (SoundSeal)
If you have an open floor plan where the kitchen connects to the living room, the Badger series may interrupt conversation or TV time. The Evolution Series uses SoundSeal technology, which includes:
- Insulated motor shrouds.
- Anti-vibration sink mounts.
- Quiet Collar® sink baffles.Some Advanced models are so quiet you may have to listen closely to check if they are running.
3. Durability and Warranty
Garbage disposals operate in a wet, corrosive environment. The Galvanized steel in the Badger series will eventually rust, usually leading to the unit seizing up or leaking after 5-8 years. The Stainless steel in the Power and Evolution series resists this corrosion, often lasting 10-15+ years. This difference is reflected in the warranties, which jump from a modest 1-year on the Badger 1 to a massive 10-year warranty on the top-tier Evolution models.
Verdict: Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the Badger Series if:
- You are on a strict budget.
- You rarely cook from scratch or produce very little food waste.
- Space under your sink is extremely limited.
- You are a landlord replacing a unit for a tenant.
Choose the Power Series if:
- You want a balance of price and performance.
- You cook regular meals and want the peace of mind that comes with stainless steel durability.
- You don’t mind standard disposal noise levels.
Choose the Evolution Series if:
- You grind tough items (bones, fibrous veggies).
- Noise is a concern (e.g., sleeping baby, open kitchen).
- You want to buy one unit that will likely last over a decade.
- You have older plumbing and need the finest grind possible to prevent clogs.
