Not exactly true, I found a used Compact 8 place setting Toshiba Dishwasher for below RM800 from an expat who was leaving Malaysia; Brand new is about RM 950 - RM 1100

Eco-Mode takes 3.5hours to wash, rinse and dry

There is another programme that get stuff washed, rinse & dry in 1.5 hours too

Quick Mode takes about 35 mins to wash, and I can clean a greasy Air Fryer in no time. (one appliance everyone loves to use but no one wants to wash up)

Since this is a compact model, so can get filled quite fast & the power consumption is also low. I monitor my usage daily and I think on average it takes about 0.5 to 1 kwh unit.

You are right about not placing wood items, seasoned cast iron pans etc. However, other general items can be thrown into the dishwasher. A smaller compact unit is more worth it for a family of 4 - 6 persons.

Since only need 35 mins, I can run it twice if needed. Dried stuck on items require a longer wash cycle (ie Stainless Steel Rice Cooker Innerpot with overnight stuck on rice starch)