Badger 5 vs. Badger 5XL: What’s The Difference?

Insinkerator’s Badger 5 garbage disposal is one of the company’s top-selling disposals. In addition to the Badger 5, there’s also the Badger 5XL. Are they the same thing? What are the differences? In this article, we tackle these questions, so stick around to learn more!

What Is The Difference Between Badger 5 and 5XL?

Despite the different names and implications, these two units are different, the only notable differences separating the two models are the price and name sticker. There are actually three Badger 5 garbage disposals: the Badger 500, the Badger 5XL, and the Badger 5 itself. 

At Home Depot, you’ll find the Badger 500, which is the same as the Badger 5, just with a different name. At Lowe’s, you’ll find the Badger 5XL, which is also the same as the Badger 5, again with a different name. 

Usually, all three models sell at different price points, some higher than the others. However, despite the so-called differences, the specifications and features of each model mirror the next. If you look at a picture of each model side by side, you’ll notice that each model is literally identical to the next, save for the sticker on the model. 

Hard to believe? Take a look at the chart below, which outlines the specs and features of the Badger 5 versus the Badger 5XL.

Features and Specifications	Badger 5	Badger 5XL
Type of motor	Dura-Drive Induction motor	Dura-Drive Induction motor
Motor power	½ HP	½ HP
Grinding speed	1,725 RPM	1,725 RPM
Feed type	Continuous feed	Continuous feed
Maximum width	6.3125 inches	6.3125 inches
Overall height	11.5 inches	11.5 inches
Noise insulation	Relatively quiet	Relatively quiet
Grinding chamber capacity	26 oz	26 oz
Mounting	3-bolt	3-bolt
Construction	Galvanized steel	Galvanized steel
Power cord	Optional, costs extra	Optional, costs extra
Reset button	Yes	Yes
Warranty	3-year in-home service and parts	3-year in-home service and parts

So, as the table indicates, everything about these two devices mirrors each other. As far as the price difference, the Badger 5 tends to be the least expensive, while the other two (Badger 500 and Badger 5XL) compete for the most expensive. The difference isn’t massive, with the Badger 5 running around $110 and the Badger 5XL costing about $135.

Is the Badger 5 A Good Garbage Disposal?

Since we’ve established that the Badger 5 and 5XL are essentially the same thing, but with different stickers, our answer to this question encompasses both disposals. As we mentioned earlier, the Badger 5 is one of InSinkErator’s top sellers. 

Performance

The Badger 5 and 5XL are far from the most powerful disposals on the market. However, these disposals can still effectively handle ‘garbage disposal friendly’ food wastes. The grinding speed of the disposal, at 1725 RPM, is slower than its rivals. 

With that said, the rival brands use mechanisms to deliver high torques at high speeds. InSinkErator uses induction motors to deliver their best torques at slower speeds. So, the lower RPM alone isn’t necessarily bad. 

The ½ HP motor is plenty strong enough to handle the food waste for a family of 2 or 3. If you have a larger household, a ¾ horsepower motor may be a better option. 

Feed Type And Chamber Capacity

Both of these disposals are continuous feed. These units allow you to scrape everyday food scraps into the drain while the unit is running. So, you can keep on adding leftovers until you run out, hence the name. 

The other option is a batch feed garbage disposal. With this type, you have to dispose of food in batches, as implied by the name.

Both disposals feature a 26-ounce grinding capacity, meaning they can hold that much food waste in them. However, since these models are continuous feed, this isn’t really a big deal. 

Noise Insulation And Construction

Given that these models are budget-friendly options, they don’t have the bells and whistles of the more expensive models. One of the areas where InSinkErator cut corners was on the noise insulation. 

Although they don’t feature the premium feature of noise insulation, their induction motors are comparatively quieter than permanent magnet motors. So, even though they’re not quiet by any means, they’re technically quieter than others. 

The overall construction of the disposal is solid. They’re made of rust-resistant, galvanized steel which doesn’t feature the same lengthy lifespan as stainless steel. 

These disposals are 11.5 inches in height and have a maximum width of 6.3125 inches. They’re compact enough to fit in small spaces, unlike regular or full-size garbage disposals. These two models have no issues fitting in tight areas, such as under deep sinks where space is limited. 

Power Cords And Reset Buttons

All garbage disposals come with a power cord, right? Nope. The Badger 5 and 5XL don’t come with a power cord, but you can choose to add one on. This makes installation even easier, so it’s something to consider. 

Nearly all garbage disposals come with a reset button, and these two are no different. Both models feature a reset button on the bottom facing side and a hex hole that allows you to manually rotate the impellers if they jam.

Warranty

The Badger 5 and 5XL both come with an identical warranty of 3 years. This covers parts and labor charges. Since it’s an in-home warranty, you don’t have to go through the hassle of dismantling, packing, and shipping the disposal to the manufacturer if something goes wrong. 

Are All InSinkErators Interchangeable?

InSinkErator garbage disposals are interchangeable. All of the company’s garbage disposals are installed the same way, making replacing one extremely easy. 

If you already have the setup for one InSinkErator model, you won’t have to make any significant changes in order for the unit to fit where the previous one did. These disposals have similar plumbing rough-in dimensions, so you can easily switch out the disposals yourself. 

Of course, if you’re starting fresh and installing a garbage disposal for the first time, the process is more involved. You’ll need to handle the wiring and plumbing aspects of the installation, which can be tricky if you don’t know what you’re doing. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is Badger Made By InSinkErator?

Yes, Badger garbage disposals are part of InSinkErator’s lineup. You can find these products at Amazon, Home Depot, Lowe’s, etc.