Having spent some time testing different garbage disposals, I finally got my hands on two of InSinkerator’s popular models: the Badger 5 and the Badger 5XP. Both are designed to handle everyday kitchen scraps efficiently, but after using them extensively, it’s clear that each serves a slightly different purpose depending on the household’s needs. Here’s my in-depth take on both disposals, from installation to grinding performance, cleaning, and overall usability.
Main Difference Between InSinkerator Badger 5 vs Badger 5XP Garbage Disposal
The primary distinction between the Badger 5 and Badger 5XP lies in motor power and grinding efficiency.
- The Badger 5 comes with a 1/2 HP Dura-Drive induction motor, perfect for small to medium households and standard kitchen waste.
- The Badger 5XP upgrades to a 3/4 HP motor, offering faster grinding, handling heavier loads, and dealing better with tougher food scraps like fibrous vegetables or small bones.
In short, if you want a reliable, everyday disposal for light to moderate use, the Badger 5 is ideal. For heavier-duty grinding, the 5XP shines.
- RELIABLE and EASY INSTALL: Badger Series disposers are a reliable and functional choice when...
- RELIABLE and EASY INSTALL: Badger Series disposers are a reliable and functional choice when...
Comparison Table: InSinkerator Badger 5 vs Badger 5XP Garbage Disposal
| Feature | InSinkerator Badger 5 | InSinkerator Badger 5XP |
| Motor Power | 1/2 HP | 3/4 HP |
| Feed Type | Continuous Feed | Continuous Feed |
| Grinding Capacity | Standard household scraps | Heavier and fibrous scraps |
| Design | Compact, space-saving | Slightly larger for 3/4 HP motor |
| Installation | Fits existing InSinkerator mounts | Same as Badger 5; easy swap |
| Materials | Galvanized steel, plastic components | Galvanized steel, plastic components |
| Noise Level | Moderate | Slightly louder due to higher power |
| Septic Safe | Not specified | Not specified |
| Best For | Small to medium households | Medium to large households or heavy-use kitchens |
| Check Latest Price & Deals | Buy on Amazon | Buy on Amazon |
Detailed Comparative Review
-
Design & Build Quality
The Badger 5 is designed with compactness in mind. Its space-saving body fits neatly under most sinks without taking up too much cabinet space. The build feels sturdy with galvanized steel components supporting the Dura-Drive motor, giving confidence in its durability.
The Badger 5XP is slightly larger due to its more powerful 3/4 HP motor, but it retains a compact footprint for the extra power. It’s a bit heavier, and the extra heft gives a sense of robustness. Both models have a classic InSinkerator look and easily integrate with existing hardware.
Verdict: Badger 5 = compact and efficient; Badger 5XP = slightly larger but built for power.
- RELIABLE and EASY INSTALL: Badger Series disposers are a reliable and functional choice when...
- RELIABLE and EASY INSTALL: Badger Series disposers are a reliable and functional choice when...
-
Installation Experience
Installing both models was straightforward. InSinkerator’s mounting system allows quick swapping with existing disposals, and both units come with a power cord, so no additional wiring is required.
I appreciated that even with the larger motor, the 5XP installation wasn’t significantly more challenging. If you’re upgrading from a Badger 5 to a 5XP, it’s mostly a plug-and-play process.
Verdict: Both models are user-friendly and easy to install.
-
Grinding Performance
Here’s where the difference really shows:
- The Badger 5 easily handled typical kitchen scraps like potato peels, cooked vegetables, coffee grounds, and leftover rice. It runs smoothly without jamming when fed typical household waste. However, fibrous items like celery or small chicken bones sometimes needed extra water to push them through.
- The Badger 5XP is noticeably faster and handles tougher scraps effortlessly. I tested it with fibrous vegetables, small bones, and even a few fruit pits. It chewed through them with minimal need for water, and the continuous feed system ensured a smooth flow of waste without interruption.
Verdict: Badger 5 = reliable for standard use; Badger 5XP = superior for heavy-duty grinding.
-
Noise Levels
Both models produce the typical hum of a garbage disposal, but the Badger 5XP is slightly louder due to the higher horsepower. While noticeable, it’s not uncomfortable or disruptive—it’s just a bit more “robust sounding” than the 5.
Verdict: Badger 5 = quieter; Badger 5XP = slightly louder, but manageable.
- RELIABLE and EASY INSTALL: Badger Series disposers are a reliable and functional choice when...
-
Cleaning & Maintenance
Both units are easy to clean. I recommend running cold water while operating the disposal and occasionally grinding small citrus peels to keep odors down. The 5XP’s more powerful motor handles debris more thoroughly, which can reduce buildup over time.
Neither model has a removable splashguard, so you’ll need to rinse the sink area after use. Overall, maintenance is simple and straightforward for both.
Verdict: Both disposals = low maintenance; 5XP slightly reduces residual waste due to stronger grinding.
-
Durability & Warranty
InSinkerator’s Dura-Drive motor technology ensures long-term reliability for both models. With galvanized steel components, these disposals are built to last. While the Badger 5XP has a higher motor rating, both units are engineered for everyday kitchen use.
Verdict: Badger 5 = reliable for light to medium use; Badger 5XP = built for heavier, long-term usage.
InSinkerator Badger 5 Garbage Disposal
- RELIABLE and EASY INSTALL: Badger Series disposers are a reliable and functional choice when...
Pros:
- Compact, space-saving design
- Reliable 1/2 HP Dura-Drive motor
- Easy installation, fits existing mounts
- Affordable and dependable
- Perfect for standard household use
Cons:
- Struggles slightly with fibrous or tough scraps
- Moderate noise level
- Not specifically rated for septic systems
InSinkerator Badger 5XP Garbage Disposal
- RELIABLE and EASY INSTALL: Badger Series disposers are a reliable and functional choice when...
Pros:
- More powerful 3/4 HP motor
- Handles tougher food scraps with ease
- Same easy installation and compact footprint
- Durable galvanized steel components
- Ideal for medium to large households
Cons:
- Slightly louder due to extra motor power
- Slightly larger size under the sink
- Higher price point than standard Badger 5
Conclusion: Which Garbage Disposal Should You Choose?
If you live in a small to medium household and mainly need a disposal for standard kitchen scraps, the InSinkerator Badger 5 is perfect. It’s reliable, affordable, and easy to install, making it a great choice for everyday use.
If your kitchen sees heavy use, tough scraps, or frequent entertaining, the Badger 5XP is worth the investment. Its 3/4 HP motor handles everything quickly, reducing the risk of jams and making kitchen cleanup more efficient.
My personal recommendation: For most families, the Badger 5XP offers the best balance of power and reliability, especially if you’re willing to invest a little more for superior performance and faster grinding.
