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5 Best Black Stainless Steel Microwaves (November 2026)

Updated on · By the Microwave Doctor team

The best black stainless steel microwaves include the TOSHIBA Air Fryer Combo Microwave for all-in-one countertop cooking, the BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven for small kitchens, and the BLACK+DECKER Microwave Oven Countertop for larger countertop meals.

On this page (7 sections)
  1. Which black stainless steel microwave is best overall?
  2. Which black stainless microwave is best for a small counter?
  3. Which 1.1 cu. ft. microwave gives you the most room?
  4. How do black stainless steel microwaves compare by size?
  5. What should you check before installing a countertop microwave?
  6. How should you clean and care for a black stainless steel microwave?
  7. Which best black stainless steel microwave should you choose?

The best black stainless steel microwave for most kitchens is the TOSHIBA Air Fryer Combo Microwave. It combines a black stainless steel finish, 1.0 cu. ft. capacity, 1000W microwave output and 8 cooking functions in a countertop format.

That mix suits households where one appliance needs to do more than reheat leftovers. Microwave, air fry, bake, broil and combi cooking give you options for different meals without adding another countertop appliance.

The best choice changes with your counter space and cooking habits. The smaller TOSHIBA suits apartments, the Farberware gives you a larger black stainless interior, and the BLACK+DECKER 0.7 cu. ft. model takes up the least space.

Setup also matters before you buy. Check width, depth and height against your counter and the shelf above it, and confirm that the turntable size fits your usual plates and dishes.

If you're deciding between finishes, compare our guide to the best stainless steel microwaves with this black stainless steel roundup. Readers focused on a specific counter format can also see the best black stainless steel countertop microwaves.

Our score weighs specs, features and buyer feedback against what you're shopping for. Use it as a starting point for comparing power, capacity and controls, then judge each model by the space and meals you actually have.

Our picks at a glance

  1. 1 TOSHIBA Air Fryer Combo Microwave
    Best for all-in-one countertop cooking

    TOSHIBA Air Fryer Combo Microwave

    9.7/10 our score

    See it on Amazon
  2. 2 BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven
    Best for small kitchens

    BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven

    9.6/10 our score

    See it on Amazon
  3. 3 BLACK+DECKER Microwave Oven Countertop
    Best for larger countertop meals

    BLACK+DECKER Microwave Oven Countertop

    9.5/10 our score

    See it on Amazon
  1. 4Farberware Countertop Microwave OvenCheck it
  2. 5TOSHIBA Microwave Oven

    TOSHIBA Microwave Oven

    Best for compact black stainless style
    Check it

Which black stainless steel microwave is best overall?

The TOSHIBA Air Fryer Combo Microwave is the strongest overall pick because it combines a black stainless steel finish with microwave, air fry, bake, broil, combi, low-temperature, odor-removal and defrost functions. Its 1.0 cu. ft. capacity and 1000W microwave output cover more cooking jobs than the simpler models here.

1

TOSHIBA Air Fryer Combo Microwave: Best for all-in-one countertop cooking

TOSHIBA Air Fryer Combo Microwave, black stainless steel microwaves
9.7/10Our score
  • 1.0 cu. ft. capacity
  • 1000W microwave output
  • Air fry, bake, broil and microwave functions
  • Black stainless steel finish

This black stainless steel countertop model combines microwave, air fry, bake, broil, combi, low-temperature, odor-removal and defrost functions. Its 12.4 in position-memory turntable fits a whole roasted chicken, a 12 in pizza or an 8 x 4 in casserole.

See it on Amazon

Pros

  • 8 cooking functions
  • 1000W output
  • 12.4 in turntable
  • Two-step child lock

Cons

  • 39.2 lb weight
  • Needs more depth than the smaller TOSHIBA

The TOSHIBA Air Fryer Combo Microwave is the best fit for a countertop where one appliance needs to handle several cooking styles. Its 8-in-1 design includes microwave, air fry, bake with convection, broil, combi, low-temperature, odor-removal and defrost functions.

The 1000W microwave output supports everyday reheating and cooking. The 12.4 in position-memory turntable can fit a whole roasted chicken, a 12 in pizza or an 8 x 4 in casserole.

Its exterior measures 20.6 x 16.4 x 11.8 in, so check both counter width and depth before setting it in place. At 39.2 lb, it also deserves a stable surface that can support its weight.

The two-step child lock helps prevent unintended use. The touch and knob controls, one-touch button, timer and defrost functions give you several ways to start routine cooking.

Choose it if you want a black stainless steel microwave that can also air fry, bake and broil. Choose a simpler model if you mainly reheat food and need a smaller footprint.

TOSHIBA Air Fryer Combo MicrowaveCheck it on Amazon

Which black stainless microwave is best for a small counter?

The TOSHIBA Microwave Oven is the best black stainless microwave here for a smaller counter when you still want 900W output and more than a basic low-power model. The BLACK+DECKER 0.7 cu. ft. model is narrower and shallower, but its finish is stainless steel rather than black stainless steel.

5

TOSHIBA Microwave Oven: Best for compact black stainless style

TOSHIBA Microwave Oven, black stainless steel microwaves
8.7/10Our score
  • 0.9 cu. ft. capacity
  • 900W output
  • 6 preset menus
  • Black stainless steel finish

This TOSHIBA gives you a black stainless steel finish in a smaller countertop body. It has 6 preset menus, 11 power levels, defrost by weight or time, one-touch start and a 10.6 in removable glass turntable.

See it on Amazon

Pros

  • Compact 18.7 in width
  • Black stainless steel finish
  • 11 power levels
  • Two-step child lock

Cons

  • 900W output
  • 0.9 cu. ft. capacity

The TOSHIBA Microwave Oven measures 18.7 x 13.3 x 10.7 in, making it one of the easier options to place on a limited counter. Its 0.9 cu. ft. capacity sits between the smallest BLACK+DECKER and the 1.0 cu. ft. combo model.

The 900W output suits regular reheating, cooking and defrosting. You get 11 power levels, a clock, a kitchen timer and one-touch start for 1 to 6 minutes at full power.

Six preset menus cover popular foods such as popcorn, pizza and potato. Defrost by weight or time gives you a choice for frozen food, while the 10.6 in removable glass turntable handles the dish rotation.

The black stainless steel finish makes it a closer match for a dark appliance set than the regular stainless steel models. Its two-step child lock and control panel lock are useful when you want to prevent unintended button presses.

Choose this model when width, depth and finish all matter. The Farberware offers more capacity, but it is wider, deeper and taller.

TOSHIBA Microwave OvenCheck it on Amazon
2

BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven: Best for small kitchens

BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven, black stainless steel microwaves
9.6/10Our score
  • 0.7 cu. ft. capacity
  • 700W output
  • 10 power settings
  • 10 in removable glass turntable

The compact BLACK+DECKER fits kitchens, offices and other spaces where cabinet depth matters. Its touch controls include 6 preset programs, 10 power settings, a kitchen timer and a child safety lock.

See it on Amazon

Pros

  • Smallest footprint here
  • 10 power settings
  • Push-button door release
  • Removable glass turntable

Cons

  • 700W output
  • Smallest capacity in this group

The BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven is the compact pick for buyers who want the smallest stated exterior dimensions in this group. It measures 17.3 x 13 x 10.2 in and has a 0.7 cu. ft. capacity.

Its 700W output is suited to simple reheating, beverages, frozen vegetables and small meals. Ten power settings let you lower the power for tasks that need gentler heating instead of using full power for every cycle.

Six pre-programmed buttons cover popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen vegetable, beverage and dinner plate. The large LED display shows the clock, timer and cooking time, while the push-button door release makes access straightforward.

The removable 10 in glass turntable gives you a clear limit for dish size. Measure your usual plates before choosing it, especially if you often heat large dinner plates or wide containers.

This model has a stainless steel finish, not a black stainless steel finish. If standard stainless is your preference, compare stainless steel Whirlpool microwaves.

Pick it for the smaller counter, lower output needs and compact size rather than for matching a black appliance suite.

BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave OvenCheck it on Amazon

Which 1.1 cu. ft. microwave gives you the most room?

The two 1.1 cu. ft. models offer the most capacity here, but they suit different finish and control preferences. Choose the Farberware for a black stainless finish, or choose the larger BLACK+DECKER for 1000W output with a black enclosure and stainless steel door frame.

4

Farberware Countertop Microwave Oven: Best for preset cooking

Farberware Countertop Microwave Oven, black stainless steel microwaves
9.4/10Our score
  • 1.1 cu. ft. capacity
  • 1000W output
  • 10 power levels with multi-stage cooking
  • Black stainless finish

The Farberware offers 1.1 cu. ft. of capacity, 1000W output and 6 one-touch options. Its black stainless finish, LED display, 12.5 in turntable and defrost-by-weight-or-time controls suit routine kitchen use.

See it on Amazon

Pros

  • Black stainless finish
  • 6 preset options
  • Multi-stage cooking
  • 12.5 in turntable

Cons

  • 12.03 in height
  • 16.93 in depth

The Farberware Countertop Microwave Oven is the best match for shoppers who want a black stainless finish and 1.1 cu. ft. capacity. Its 1000W output gives you the same stated power as the larger BLACK+DECKER, while its 20.2 in width leaves a little less side-to-side space.

A 12.5 in turntable works with larger plates and dishes than the 10 in turntable on the compact BLACK+DECKER. The 10 power levels and multi-stage cooking controls let you set different power stages in one cooking sequence.

Six one-touch options include popcorn, potato and pizza. Defrost by weight or time, express cook, an LED display, interior lighting and a child safety lock cover common daily tasks.

The stated dimensions are 20.2 x 16.93 x 12.03 in, so compare both depth and height with the shelf or counter above it. Its stainless steel inner material is easy to compare with the black stainless exterior when planning a coordinated appliance setup.

Choose Farberware when finish, capacity and preset cooking matter most. Its larger body needs more clearance than the compact TOSHIBA.

Farberware Countertop Microwave OvenCheck it on Amazon
3

BLACK+DECKER Microwave Oven Countertop: Best for larger countertop meals

BLACK+DECKER Microwave Oven Countertop, black stainless steel microwaves
9.5/10Our score
  • 1.1 cu. ft. capacity
  • 1000W output
  • 10 power settings
  • 12.4 in removable glass turntable

This BLACK+DECKER provides the largest stated capacity in the group and 1000W output for countertop reheating and cooking. The door frame is stainless steel and the enclosure is black.

See it on Amazon

Pros

  • Largest capacity here
  • 1000W output
  • 12.4 in turntable
  • 10 power settings

Cons

  • 20.6 in length
  • The title identifies stainless steel rather than black stainless steel

The larger BLACK+DECKER Microwave Oven Countertop gives you 1.1 cu. ft. of capacity and 1000W output in a 20.6 x 14.8 x 11.8 in body. That combination suits buyers who want room for larger dishes without the extra depth of the Farberware.

Its 12.4 in removable glass turntable supports a larger dish than the compact BLACK+DECKER's 10 in turntable. Ten power settings, a clock, a kitchen timer and 30-second express cooking cover the main controls for routine use.

Six auto-cook presets include popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen vegetable, beverage and dinner plate. The child safety lock, interior light and push-button door release add practical functions without adding air-fry or convection modes.

The title identifies this model as stainless steel, while the product information identifies a black enclosure and stainless steel door frame. That makes it a possible visual fit for a dark kitchen, but it is not the same finish as the black stainless Farberware or TOSHIBA models.

Choose it when interior capacity and a 12.4 in turntable matter more than a confirmed black stainless finish. It is also a good fit when you prefer a shallower body than the Farberware.

BLACK+DECKER Microwave Oven CountertopCheck it on Amazon

How do black stainless steel microwaves compare by size?

The best black stainless steel microwave depends on the space around it, not just its interior capacity. Measure the counter or shelf, then compare the microwave's width, depth and height with the turntable size and the dishes you use.

Smallest black stainless microwave footprint

The TOSHIBA Microwave Oven has a stated width of 18.7 in, depth of 13.3 in and height of 10.7 in. It gives you 0.9 cu. ft. of capacity and a 10.6 in removable glass turntable.

The Farberware is 20.2 in wide, 16.93 in deep and 12.03 in high. It gives you 1.1 cu. ft. of capacity and a 12.5 in turntable, but it needs more counter depth and vertical clearance.

The BLACK+DECKER 0.7 cu. ft. model is smaller at 17.3 x 13 x 10.2 in. Its stainless steel finish may not match a black stainless appliance set, but its dimensions suit a tight counter.

Best power level for everyday use

The 1000W models here are the TOSHIBA Air Fryer Combo, the larger BLACK+DECKER and the Farberware. They are the strongest choices when you often reheat full plates or want faster microwave cooking than the 700W model.

The smaller TOSHIBA provides 900W output. The compact BLACK+DECKER provides 700W output with 10 power settings, so it can still handle routine cooking when you allow for its lower output.

Use the package directions as a starting point rather than treating the time as universal. Microwave output, food quantity and container shape can change how quickly food heats.

Black stainless finish versus regular stainless steel

The black stainless options in this group are the TOSHIBA Air Fryer Combo, Farberware and smaller TOSHIBA. Their darker finish suits kitchens with black appliances or a darker range and hood.

The BLACK+DECKER 0.7 cu. ft. and larger 1.1 cu. ft. models are identified as stainless steel. The larger model has a black enclosure and stainless steel door frame, so view the finish description carefully before choosing it for color matching.

If you want a handle-focused comparison, see our guide to the best stainless steel microwaves with handles. For brand comparisons, read which microwave brand is best.

What should you check before installing a countertop microwave?

Check the full exterior dimensions, turntable size, door swing and power needs before placing a countertop microwave. A model that fits its width can still be too deep for the counter or too tall for the shelf above it.

Keep the microwave on a stable, level surface. Leave the ventilation space required by the model's instructions, keep the controls accessible and make sure the door can open fully without striking a wall or another appliance.

Do not treat countertop models as over-the-range replacements. These five products are identified as countertop microwaves, so an over-the-range installation requires a separate model designed for that location.

For more stainless appliance ideas outside microwave ovens, see the best stainless steel rice cooker with an inner pot. Keep heat, steam and electrical access in mind when arranging several countertop appliances.

How should you clean and care for a black stainless steel microwave?

Clean the interior and exterior with a soft damp cloth, then dry the surface. A gentle clean removes everyday marks without harsh chemicals.

Avoid abrasive pads and harsh cleaners that can mark a dark finish or leave a cloudy film. Black stainless steel shows streaks more easily than lighter finishes, so light pressure works better than scrubbing.

Wipe the inside after spills cool enough to touch safely. Prompt wiping stops sauce and grease from drying on the walls and floor.

Remove and wash the turntable according to the model instructions. The glass turntable can usually be lifted out for washing, and the roller ring underneath should also be checked.

The TOSHIBA Air Fryer Combo includes a glass turntable and roller ring, while the other products here include a turntable in their listed components. Keep the support parts clean and seated correctly so the turntable rotates smoothly.

Wash the turntable separately when it has burnt-on food. Let it cool first, then wash it with warm water and a mild detergent.

Food residue can create odors and smoke during later heating, so regular cleaning is especially useful when you use preset menus, air fry or broil functions. Odor removal is listed for the TOSHIBA combo, but routine wiping still prevents buildup.

For air fry or broil use, check for splatter after each session. Splatter left on heating areas can smoke on the next use and affect cooking results.

Keep the control panel dry and use the child lock when you want to prevent unintended operation. Moisture around buttons and touch controls can interfere with input.

Use a dry cloth on the panel after cleaning nearby surfaces. Avoid spraying cleaner directly onto the controls or display.

Clean the door window and edges with the same soft cloth approach. Fingerprints on the window can make it harder to see food while it cooks.

Check the door seal area for trapped crumbs or residue. A clean seal helps the door close properly and keeps the interior tidy.

Store the manual where you can check care instructions for your exact model. Different models may have different cleaning limits for interior materials.

For electrical or door problems, stop using the appliance and follow the brand's service guidance. Do not keep using a microwave that sparks, runs unevenly or has a damaged door.

Place the microwave on a stable surface with ventilation space around it. Good airflow helps the appliance run as intended and keeps nearby surfaces cooler.

Keep the counter around the microwave free from clutter during use. Heat and steam from cooking can affect nearby items if space is too tight.

A short routine after each use makes care easier. Wipe spills, wash the turntable when needed and dry the exterior to keep the finish looking its best.

Which best black stainless steel microwave should you choose?

Choose the TOSHIBA Air Fryer Combo if you want the most cooking functions, a black stainless finish and 1000W output. It suits kitchens where reheating is only part of the job.

Its 8 functions include microwave, air fry, bake, broil, combi, low-temperature, odor-removal and defrost. That range fits buyers who want several cooking styles from one countertop appliance.

Choose the Farberware if you want 1.1 cu. ft. of capacity with a black stainless finish and 6 preset options. It suits routine cooking for larger plates and shared meals.

The Farberware also offers 10 power levels with multi-stage cooking and defrost by weight or time. Those controls help when you want to set stages in one sequence instead of starting again.

Choose the smaller TOSHIBA when your counter is limited but you still want 900W output and 11 power levels. Its 18.7 x 13.3 x 10.7 in body suits apartments and smaller kitchens.

Its black stainless steel finish also suits a dark appliance set better than regular stainless steel. The 10.6 in turntable means you should still measure your usual dinner plates before ordering.

Choose the compact BLACK+DECKER when the smallest footprint matters more than black stainless styling. At 17.3 x 13 x 10.2 in, it fits tight counters where depth is limited.

Its 700W output and 10 power settings suit simple reheating, beverages and small meals. Allow more time than you would with a 900W or 1000W model for the same dish.

The larger BLACK+DECKER is the better fit when you want 1.1 cu. ft. and 1000W output in a shallower body than the Farberware. Its 12.4 in turntable also handles larger dishes.

Note that this model is identified as stainless steel, with a black enclosure and stainless steel door frame. Check that finish description carefully if matching a black appliance suite is important.

Before ordering, match the exterior measurements and finish with your counter and other appliances. Measure width, depth and height, then check door swing and shelf clearance.

Also compare turntable size with your cookware and plates. A model that looks large enough by capacity may still be tight for wide dishes.

If you mainly reheat food, a simpler microwave may suit you best. If you want air fry, bake and broil in one unit, the TOSHIBA combo gives you the widest range here.

Our top 3 picks at a glance

  1. 1 TOSHIBA Air Fryer Combo Microwave
    Best for all-in-one countertop cooking

    TOSHIBA Air Fryer Combo Microwave

    9.7/10 our score

    See it on Amazon
  2. 2 BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven
    Best for small kitchens

    BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven

    9.6/10 our score

    See it on Amazon
  3. 3 BLACK+DECKER Microwave Oven Countertop
    Best for larger countertop meals

    BLACK+DECKER Microwave Oven Countertop

    9.5/10 our score

    See it on Amazon

Frequently asked questions

What is the best black stainless steel microwave?

The TOSHIBA Air Fryer Combo Microwave is the best black stainless steel microwave here for buyers who want more than reheating. It has a 1.0 cu. ft. capacity, 1000W microwave output and air fry, bake, broil, combi, low-temperature, odor-removal and defrost functions.

Choose the Farberware if you prefer a 1.1 cu. ft. countertop microwave with 6 preset options and a black stainless finish.

What size black stainless steel microwave should you buy?

Choose the size by your counter depth, available width and the dishes you use most. The smallest model here is 17.3 in wide and 13 in deep, while the largest stated capacity is 1.1 cu. ft.

Measure the counter, leave room for the door and controls, and compare the turntable size with your dinner plates or cookware.

Is black stainless steel the same as stainless steel?

No. Black stainless steel is a dark finish, while stainless steel is the lighter finish used on some models in this group.

The TOSHIBA Air Fryer Combo, Farberware and smaller TOSHIBA have black stainless finishes.

The BLACK+DECKER models are identified as stainless steel, although the larger model has a black enclosure and stainless steel door frame.

Is 700W enough for a countertop microwave?

Yes, 700W can suit basic reheating, beverages and small meals, but it may take longer than a 900W or 1000W microwave. The BLACK+DECKER 0.7 cu. ft. model has 700W output and 10 power settings.

Use the cooking directions as a starting point, then adjust time for your microwave's output.

What should you check before buying a black stainless microwave?

Check the exterior width, depth and height first, then compare capacity, output power, turntable size and controls. A larger turntable can help with plates and casseroles, while preset menus reduce the number of manual settings.

Also confirm that the finish matches your other appliances because black stainless and regular stainless steel look different.