InSinkErator Evolution Excel vs. Prestige: Which Is Better?

A sturdy, hardworking garbage disposal is an essential part of millions of kitchens. These handy appliances are a great way to reduce the amount of food waste sent to the landfill by rerouting tiny food particles through the sewage system. Given the popularity of these appliances, the sheer quantity of options is no surprise. 

Although having choices is excellent, too many options can be overwhelming. Perhaps you’ve done your research and narrowed your list to a few top models, including the Evolution Excel and the Prestige. So, which one should you pick? Are they worth the cost? Or should you avoid both options altogether and select a different brand?

We compiled information about each option in hopes of helping you decide which option is better suited to your home. So, if you’re on the fence between these two models, you’re in the right place!

What Is The Difference Between The Evolution Excel and Prestige Models?

The Evolution Excel and Prestige models are part of InSinkErator’s garbage disposal lineup. The primary difference between these two options is the addition of a jam sensor in the Evolution Excel. The ‘Jam Sensor’ circuit can sense jams and adjust its cutting torque accordingly. 

When this sensor detects jams, it can increase its cutting torque by up to 500%, which can help eliminate the blockage before it becomes a significant problem. InSinkErator’s Prestige models don’t feature this sensor. 

Aside from the sensor, there are a few other minor differences between these two. InSinkErator labels the Prestige model as ‘quiet.’ In contrast, the Evolution Excel is labeled as ‘ultra-quiet.’ Additionally, the Prestige models feature dark blue and chrome colors, while Excel models are grey and chrome. 

The chart below offers a quick view of the basics of each model.

	Excel	Prestige
Auto Reverse	Yes	Yes
Power	1 HP	1 HP
Warranty	7 years	7 years
Jam Sensor	Yes	No
Availability	Widely available	Lowe’s
Manufactured in	USA	USA
Noise Level	Ultra-quiet	Quiet

Overall Construction

These garbage disposals are built to last and feature a solid, stainless steel construction that will last for many years. While many lesser disposals feature plastic components, these models are completely composed of stainless steel. Even the grinding chamber and mounting flange are stainless steel. 

Given the material, you shouldn’t have to worry about corrosion, as stainless steel is corrosion-resistant. 

Color And Design

The Excel and Prestige models feature a classy, sleek design that isn’t too much of an eyesore, even though it’s hidden beneath your sink. The exterior is stainless steel, finished with a slate grey color. The Excel features grey and chrome, whereas the Prestige features dark blue and grey. 

The design mimics those used for commercial disposals, with a modern, professional appearance. 

Feed Type

Both models are continuous feed disposals. So, you can steadily scrape food scraps into the drain without having to stop and cap the system to run it, as you would have to do with a batch-feed garbage disposal. 

Griding Performance

InSinkErator’s Evolution series, including the Prestige and Excel models, are some of the best garbage disposals on the market. Some folks even refer to the Excel model as the best residential garbage disposal available today.

These units utilize multiple grinding stage technology, with three stages for total and efficient waste disposal. The system moves food scraps through each stage, grinding them until it’s completely pulverized. Once it completes the grinding stages, the food is too small to cause a clog. 

While these disposals are powerful enough to handle material that would jam lesser models, you should still stick to the disposal care instructions. 

Power Cord

In some cases, the power cord for your garbage disposal might not be included, so you’ll have to buy it separately. Depending on where you buy the Excel model, you may or may not get a power cord. The Prestige doesn’t come with a power cord at all, so you’ll need to buy it separately, regardless. 

Induction Motor

The Excel and Prestige disposals have highly powerful 1-horsepower motors. These are some of the toughest models available, save for higher horsepower commercial-grade models. These models can handle just about any food waste you throw at it (garbage disposal safe foods, of course). 

Installation

InSinkErator makes installing its products quick and easy. Both units feature a Quick-Lock mounting system that speeds up the installation process, allowing many people to skip professional installations altogether. Simply read through the directions and start working. 

Of course, if this is the first garbage disposal for this particular sink (or you’re replacing a smaller model), you’ll probably have to tinker with plumbing lines to get the system hooked up. If you’re not comfortable handling this part, it might be better to hire a professional. 

Features

As we mentioned earlier, the primary difference between the two is the presence of the jam sensor circuit. The added jam sensor makes the Excel model extra efficient, as it powers through jams without so much as a hiccup. 

The Prestige is somewhat disadvantaged, as it’s more prone to jams due to the lack of the jam sensor. That said, both models have the auto-reverse feature, which is excellent for helping cut clogs. So, while the Prestige doesn’t have the same clog-fighting perks as the Excel, it still does considerably well with the auto-reverse feature.

Availability 

These InSinkErator models are pretty similar, despite minor differences. However, finding each model looks considerably different. Excel models are widely available from many big-box hardware stores and home improvement centers.

Prestige models tend to be tougher to find, as they’re exclusively available from Lowe’s. Sometimes, you’ll hear these models referred to as Lowe’s InSinkErator Evolution Prestige.

Which One Is Better?

The Prestige and Excel models are excellent choices if you’re looking for a solid, well-constructed, and powerful garbage disposal. The Prestige garbage disposal tends to be slightly less expensive than the Excel models, but not by much. 

Both offer similar benefits, with the Excel surging slightly ahead with its jam sensor. They’re both outstanding options, but they’re priced higher than many of the other options on the market. That said, if efficiency and power are the names of the game, these are ideal, innovative food waste disposals.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is The InSinkErator Evolution Excel Worth it?

The InSinkErator Evolution Excel is a pricey garbage disposal at nearly $450 for the unit itself. For some folks, the price simply isn’t justifiable. However, the Evolution Excel is an outstanding choice if you’re looking for an excellent, highly efficient, and quiet garbage disposal. 

Many reviewers attest to the exceptional features of this particular model, from the SoundSeal Technology for sound dampening to the highly efficient motor.  Ultimately, the decision as to whether this particular unit is worth it or not is up to you. 

Who Makes Evolution Garbage Disposal?

InSinkErator, an American company owned by Emerson, is responsible for creating the Evolution garbage disposal lineup. There are a few different models within the lineup, including the Evolution Compact, Evolution Select, Evolutions Supreme, and Evolution Excel.