8 Best Black Stainless Steel Countertop Microwaves (November 2026)
The best black stainless steel countertop microwaves include the BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven for compact stainless kitchens, the TOSHIBA Countertop Microwave Oven for sensor cooking, and the BLACK+DECKER Microwave Oven Countertop for larger BLACK+DECKER capacity.
On this page (8 sections)
- Which black stainless steel countertop microwave is best?
- How we compared countertop microwave black stainless models
- The best countertop microwaves with black stainless and related finishes
- How much counter space do these microwaves need?
- What capacity is best for daily cooking?
- Do you need sensor cooking?
- How do you clean and care for a countertop microwave?
- Which black stainless steel countertop microwave should you choose?
The best countertop microwave black stainless steel pick for most kitchens is the Farberware Countertop Microwave Oven. Its 1.1 cu. ft. capacity, 1000 watts, 10 power levels and black stainless finish give you a useful mix of cooking room and matching style.
Sharp is the better fit for larger portions because it has 1.4 cu. ft. of capacity and 1100 watts. TOSHIBA's 0.9 cu. ft. model is easier to fit in a smaller kitchen, while the BLACK+DECKER and GE models suit buyers who need compact stainless steel microwaves.
Microwave Doctor compared the listed capacities, dimensions, power levels, turntables, controls, preset programs and finishes. Our score weighs specs, features and buyer feedback against what you're shopping for.
If you are also comparing finishes, see our guide to the best stainless steel microwave, our picks for the best black stainless steel microwave, and our roundup of the best countertop microwave black.
Our picks at a glance
-
1
Best for compact stainless kitchensBLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven
9.6/10 our score
See it on Amazon -
2
-
3
Best for larger BLACK+DECKER capacityBLACK+DECKER Microwave Oven Countertop
9.5/10 our score
See it on Amazon
- 4
Check itFarberware Countertop Microwave Oven
Best for matching black stainless style - 5
Check itSharp SMC1452KH 1.4 cu. ft. Black Stainless
Best for family-size capacity - 6
Best for compact black stainless styleCheck it - 7
Check itFRIGIDAIRE Stainless Steel Microwave Oven
Best for straightforward controls - 8
Best for tight spacesCheck it
Which black stainless steel countertop microwave is best?
The Farberware Countertop Microwave Oven is the best direct match for a black stainless steel countertop microwave with a mid-size interior. It pairs a clearly identified black stainless finish with 1.1 cu. ft. of capacity and 1000 watts, so style and cooking space work together without a trade-off.
Sharp gives you more capacity, while TOSHIBA gives you a smaller black stainless footprint. That choice usually comes down to the dishes you use daily and the counter depth you can spare.
The most important split is finish versus overall fit. Four models use stainless steel or a mixed black and stainless design, while Farberware, Sharp and the smaller TOSHIBA clearly identify black stainless finishes.
A true finish match matters most beside black stainless appliances and in daily view. In a dorm, office or rental kitchen, controls, size and power may matter more than the exact shade.
Capacity is the next split. A 0.7 or 0.9 cu. ft. cabinet suits mugs, snacks and single servings, while 1.1 cu. ft. handles common plates and bowls more comfortably.
Larger 1.2 and 1.4 cu. ft. models add room for wider dishes, but need more depth and width.
Power also shapes routine use. The 1000-watt and 1100-watt models suit regular reheating and cooking, while 700-watt models focus on simple tasks in compact spaces.
Preset buttons speed up repeat foods, and 10 or 11 power levels help with defrosting and gentler reheating.
For another finish option, see our stainless steel Whirlpool microwave guide.
Measure width, depth, height and door swing before you decide. The best pick fits the space, matches the kitchen and still has room for the plates you own.
How we compared countertop microwave black stainless models
We compared each microwave's capacity, output power, outside dimensions, turntable size, preset programs, power settings and finish. Those details affect whether a microwave fits your counter and whether it can handle the dishes you use most often.
Capacity helps you estimate interior room, but outside depth matters just as much. Farberware measures 16.93 in deep, while Sharp reaches 18.1 in, so a larger interior can require more counter space.
Power also shapes daily use. The 700-watt BLACK+DECKER and GE models are aimed at simple reheating and compact placement, while the 1000-watt models offer more output for regular cooking tasks.
Controls matter when you repeat the same meals. Preset buttons speed up common foods, while 10 or 11 power settings give you more control for defrosting, softening and lower-power reheating.
The best countertop microwaves with black stainless and related finishes
The best choice depends on whether you need a true black stainless finish, a compact cabinet or more room for family-size dishes. These picks are ordered by score, with the strongest overall fit first.
BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven: Best for compact stainless kitchens
- 0.7 cu. ft. capacity
- 700 watts
- 10 power settings
- Removable 10 in glass turntable
This compact BLACK+DECKER suits a small counter and covers basic reheating with 10 power settings, preset buttons and a removable glass turntable.
Pros
- Small footprint
- Child safety lock
- Push-button door release
Cons
- Smallest capacity in this roundup
- Stainless steel rather than black stainless
The BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven is a strong compact choice for a small kitchen, dorm or office. Its 0.7 cu. ft. capacity and 17.3 W x 13 D x 10.2 H in dimensions make it one of the easier models here to place on a limited counter.
Its 700 watts and 10 power settings cover routine reheating, defrosting and simple cooking. Six pre-programmed buttons cover popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen vegetable, beverage and dinner plate.
The removable 10 in glass turntable gives dishes a stable rotating base. A large LED display shows the clock and cooking time, while the child safety lock adds a useful control for shared spaces.
This is stainless steel rather than black stainless steel, so choose it for size and controls if an exact finish match is less important. Its push-button door release also suits buyers who prefer opening the door without pulling a handle.
Choose it for a compact stainless steel microwave with familiar preset controls. Pick a larger model if you often heat wide plates or several portions.
TOSHIBA Countertop Microwave Oven: Best for sensor cooking
- 1.2 cu. ft. capacity
- 1000 watts
- Smart humidity sensor
- 12.4 in glass turntable
TOSHIBA gives you more room and sensor cooking, making it useful for larger dishes and repeat reheating tasks.
Pros
- Largest turntable among the first four picks
- Humidity sensor
- 10 power levels
Cons
- Stainless steel rather than black stainless
- Wider than compact models
The TOSHIBA Countertop Microwave Oven combines a 1.2 cu. ft. interior with 1000 watts of output. Its 20.6 W x 14.6 D x 11.8 H in body needs more room than the compact models, but it gives you more space for everyday dishes.
Smart humidity sensor cooking adjusts cooking time and power based on food humidity. The microwave also has 10 power levels, defrost by weight or time, and six preset menu options.
Its 12.4 in glass turntable is useful for larger plates. The clock and kitchen timer help with routine cooking, while the mute function and ECO mode add control over sound and standby use.
This model has a stainless steel finish, not a black stainless finish. It still belongs in this comparison because shoppers often weigh a matching finish against sensor cooking and interior room.
Choose it when sensor cooking and a larger turntable matter more than a black exterior. For a smaller true black stainless model, compare the 0.9 cu. ft.
TOSHIBA below.
BLACK+DECKER Microwave Oven Countertop: Best for larger BLACK+DECKER capacity
- 1.1 cu. ft. capacity
- 1000 watts
- 10 power settings
- Removable 12.4 in glass turntable
This model adds interior space and 1000-watt output while keeping the BLACK+DECKER control layout and push-button door.
Pros
- 1000-watt output
- Child safety lock
- Six preset programs
Cons
- Black enclosure with stainless door frame, not a full black stainless finish
- Needs more counter depth
The BLACK+DECKER Microwave Oven Countertop gives you 1.1 cu. ft. of capacity and 1000 watts in a black enclosure with a stainless steel door frame. It is a useful middle-size choice for buyers who want more room than a 0.7 cu. ft. microwave.
The removable 12.4 in glass turntable is large enough for the dishes typically used with a 1.1 cu. ft. cabinet. Ten power settings give you more control than a basic express-cook microwave.
Six preset buttons cover popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen vegetable, beverage and dinner plate. The LED display shows the clock and remaining cook time, and the child safety lock helps prevent unintended use.
The finish is not a full black stainless steel exterior, so check your other appliances before choosing it for a color match. Its 20.6 W x 14.8 D x 11.8 H dimensions also need more counter space than the compact picks.
Choose it for 1000-watt output and a larger BLACK+DECKER interior. Choose Farberware instead if the black stainless finish is the main reason you are shopping.
Farberware Countertop Microwave Oven: Best for matching black stainless style
- 1.1 cu. ft. capacity
- 1000 watts
- 10 power levels
- Black stainless finish
Farberware is the clearest style match for this roundup because its title identifies a black stainless finish, while its 1.1 cu. ft. interior fits everyday meals.
Pros
- Black stainless finish
- Six preset options
- Defrost by weight or time
Cons
- Deepest cabinet listed here
- No sensor cooking detail
The Farberware Countertop Microwave Oven is the clearest overall match for this roundup. It has a black stainless finish, 1.1 cu. ft. capacity and 1000 watts, which gives you a practical middle ground between compact and family-size models.
Ten power levels and multi-stage cooking let you set more than one cooking stage. Six one-touch options include popcorn, potato and pizza, while defrost works by weight or time.
The 12.5 in turntable supports everyday plates and bowls. Its LED display includes a clock and kitchen timer, and the child safety lock adds a useful feature for family kitchens.
Farberware measures 20.2 W x 16.93 D x 12.03 H in. The depth is greater than the BLACK+DECKER 1.1 cu. ft. model, so measure the counter and leave room for the door to open fully.
Choose it for the best balance of black stainless style, capacity and cooking controls. If you need the most interior room, Sharp is the stronger fit.
Sharp SMC1452KH 1.4 cu. ft. Black Stainless: Best for family-size capacity
- 1.4 cu. ft. capacity
- 1100 watts
- Precise cook sensor technology
- 12.4 in carousel turntable
Sharp is the largest black stainless steel countertop microwave here, with sensor cooking and 1100 watts for buyers who regularly reheat larger portions.
Pros
- Largest capacity
- Black stainless steel finish
- Sensor cooking
Cons
- Deepest footprint
- Higher score reflects fit for larger kitchens rather than compact spaces
The Sharp SMC1452KH 1.4 cu. ft. Black Stainless is the largest microwave in this roundup.
Its 1.4 cu. ft. capacity and 1100 watts suit households that often reheat larger portions or use wider dishes.
Precise cook sensor technology helps reduce guesswork for sensor cooking. The 12.4 in carousel turntable rotates dishes for more even heating, and the blue LED display keeps the controls visible.
Sharp gives you a plus-30-second key and express cooking for up to 6 minutes. Its 20.4 W x 18.1 D x 12.4 H dimensions require the most depth among these models, so counter fit is a real buying check.
The black stainless steel finish is a direct match for kitchens with similar appliances. The larger cabinet may feel excessive if you mainly heat mugs, snacks or single servings.
Choose Sharp for capacity, sensor cooking and 1100-watt output. Choose Farberware if you want a smaller cabinet with a lower counter-depth requirement.
TOSHIBA Microwave Oven: Best for compact black stainless style
- 0.9 cu. ft. capacity
- 900 watts
- 11 power levels
- 10.6 in glass turntable
This TOSHIBA keeps the black stainless look in a smaller cabinet, making it a practical choice for apartments and limited counters.
Pros
- Black stainless steel finish
- Small footprint
- Two-step child lock
Cons
- Less capacity than 1.1 and 1.4 cu. ft. models
- Lower output than the 1000-watt picks
The TOSHIBA Microwave Oven is the best compact black stainless steel microwave countertop option in this group. Its 0.9 cu. ft. capacity, 900 watts and 18.7 W x 13.3 D x 10.7 H dimensions sit between the smallest 0.7 cu. ft. models and the larger 1.1 cu. ft. units.
That middle position suits apartments, dorms and smaller family kitchens where a full-size cabinet feels oversized. It leaves more counter space for prep while keeping a black stainless finish for a coordinated look.
Six preset menus cover popcorn, pizza and potato. The microwave also offers 11 power levels, defrost by weight or time, one-touch start and a two-step child lock.
The extra power levels help with softening, defrosting and reheating at lower intensity. Defrost by weight suits portioned frozen foods, while defrost by time suits smaller items.
The removable 10.6 in glass turntable suits smaller dishes, and a mute function and LED lighting add convenience. Wide plates may sit close to the walls, so turntable size is the main daily limit.
Let the glass plate cool before washing, then dry it fully and refit it correctly so dishes rotate evenly. Set the microwave on a stable counter with room for airflow and door clearance, and keep vents unobstructed.
Choose it when black stainless style and a smaller footprint both matter. If your regular dishes are large, the 1.1 cu. ft.
Farberware may be easier to live with.
FRIGIDAIRE Stainless Steel Microwave Oven: Best for straightforward controls
- 1.1 cu. ft. capacity
- 1000 watts
- 10 power levels
- Removable glass turntable
Frigidaire offers a familiar stainless finish, preset timers, 10 power levels and a removable glass turntable for routine cooking.
Pros
- Six pre-programmed options
- Child safety lock
- Auto defrost settings
Cons
- Stainless rather than black stainless
- Widest cabinet listed here
The FRIGIDAIRE Stainless Steel Microwave Oven is a practical stainless steel option with 1.1 cu. ft. capacity and 1000 watts. It has a 21.25 W x 16 D x 11.8 H footprint, so measure carefully before placing it on a narrow counter.
That size suits a standard kitchen counter where width is plentiful, but it can feel tight in a compact galley layout. Check the space from the back wall to the counter edge, including room for the door to swing open.
Six pre-programmed options cover foods such as popcorn, pizza, French fries and wings or nuggets. Ten power levels, auto defrost settings, a clock and timers give you more control than a basic compact microwave.
Auto defrost settings for meat, poultry and fish help with meal prep when you need to start from frozen. Using a lower power level after defrosting can help the centre finish cooking more evenly.
The removable glass turntable provides a stable rotating base and can be removed for cleaning. A child safety lock suits family kitchens, dorms and shared offices.
The glass plate can be washed by hand or in the dishwasher, which suits regular use with savoury snacks and leftovers. Wipe the enamel interior with a damp cloth after spills so residue does not build up around the turntable support.
The clean stainless-steel finish is not black stainless. Choose it for straightforward controls and a familiar 1.1 cu. ft. size, especially if matching black appliances is not essential.
GE Countertop Microwave: Best for tight spaces
- 0.7 cu. ft. capacity
- 700 watts
- Four convenience cook settings
- Child lock
GE is a compact stainless steel option for dorms, apartments and offices where counter depth matters more than large-dish capacity.
Pros
- Small footprint
- Auto and time defrost
- Clearance guidance included
Cons
- Stainless rather than black stainless
- 700-watt output
The GE Countertop Microwave is a compact stainless steel model for tight counters, dorms, apartments and offices. It measures 17.31 W x 12.75 D x 10.19 H in and holds 0.7 cu. ft.
Its 700 watts suit quick meals and simple reheating. One-touch express cooking, four convenience cook settings, auto defrost and manual defrost keep the controls easy to use.
Beverage, pizza, popcorn and reheat settings cover the foods most people heat in a small microwave. Express cooking simplifies short bursts, while the digital display helps you track time without repeated pressing.
The 0.7 cu. ft. interior works best for mugs, single servings, snack plates and compact leftovers. Wider dinner plates and multi-portion dishes will be a tighter fit, so size it around the cookware you already use.
GE specifies 3 in of clearance on each side and above, 1 in at the rear, and an unobstructed bottom for airflow. Treat those clearances as part of the installation space, not as optional extra room.
That guidance matters in cupboards, alcoves and shared kitchen units where walls or cabinets sit close to the microwave. Keeping the bottom clear also avoids blocking airflow with trays, cloths or stored items.
The glass turntable and roller ring support even heating and can be cleaned after spills. The child lock adds peace of mind in family homes, dorms and break rooms, and it can be disabled when adults want quicker access.
The finish is stainless steel rather than black stainless. Choose GE when the compact footprint and clear placement guidance matter most.
How much counter space do these microwaves need?
The smallest models are the BLACK+DECKER and GE 0.7 cu. ft. microwaves. They are both about 17.3 in wide and 10.2 in high, but GE is slightly shallower at 12.75 in compared with BLACK+DECKER at 13 in.
The compact TOSHIBA is 18.7 in wide, 13.3 in deep and 10.7 in high. It gives you a black stainless finish while using less space than the 1.1 and 1.4 cu. ft. models.
Farberware is 16.93 in deep, while Sharp reaches 18.1 in. Before buying, measure the counter from front to back and check that the door can open without hitting a wall or cabinet.
Leave the airflow space required by the chosen model. GE gives specific clearance guidance, and other microwaves may have different requirements in their instructions.
What capacity is best for daily cooking?
A 0.7 cu. ft. microwave works well for mugs, snacks, single servings and compact counters. The BLACK+DECKER and GE models are both about 17.3 in wide and 10.2 in high, with GE slightly shallower at 12.75 in deep.
That size suits reheating drinks, warming a single portion and heating small plates without taking over the worktop. It is less suited to wide plates, covered casserole dishes or several portions at once.
The 0.9 cu. ft. TOSHIBA adds some room while keeping a smaller footprint than the full-size picks.
At 18.7 W x 13.3 D x 10.7 H in, it sits between compact and mid-size models and keeps the black stainless finish.
The 1.1 cu. ft. models are the middle-ground choices. Farberware, BLACK+DECKER and Frigidaire offer enough room for common plates and bowls without reaching Sharp's larger 1.4 cu. ft. cabinet.
This capacity suits everyday family use, including reheating leftovers, heating ready meals and defrosting portions for one or two people. Turntable size also matters, because a dish needs room to rotate without catching the walls.
Choose Sharp's 1.4 cu. ft. capacity for larger portions, noting its 18.1 in depth, 12.4 in height and 20.4 in width. The 1.2 cu. ft.
TOSHIBA offers extra room with a 12.4 in turntable and sensor cooking, without the deepest cabinet.
Capacity should match how you cook. Choose the smallest interior that fits your usual plates comfortably, and you keep more counter space for daily prep.
Do you need sensor cooking?
Sensor cooking adjusts time based on food humidity. The TOSHIBA 1.2 cu. ft. model has a smart humidity sensor, and Sharp has precise cook sensor technology.
That helps with vegetables, rice and leftovers where moisture changes the time needed. It reduces guesswork, but you still need to stir, stand and check food for safe heating.
Preset buttons are a simpler alternative for repeat foods. BLACK+DECKER and Farberware provide six preset options, while the compact TOSHIBA has six auto menus.
Presets suit popcorn, pizza, potato, beverages and frozen vegetables because the routine rarely changes.
The trade-off is less flexibility than sensor or manual settings. If portions, dishes or starting temperatures vary, a preset may still need adjustment after the cycle ends.
Neither approach removes the need to follow food directions and check the result. Use lower power for gentler reheating, and stir or rotate food when appropriate.
Lower power helps with defrosting, softening butter or chocolate, and warming foods that burn at the edges. Manual control lets you pause, check the centre and add short bursts as needed.
Sensor models still need a suitable dish and a clear path for steam sensing. Covering food, using the right container and following pan size can all affect the result.
Choose sensor cooking for varied foods and automatic adjustment. Choose presets or manual settings for the same items often and predictable control.
How do you clean and care for a countertop microwave?
Unplug the microwave before cleaning the outside, and use a damp cloth for routine spills. Removable glass turntables can be taken out for washing, but allow them to cool before handling.
Hot glass can crack if it meets cold water, and a warm turntable can burn your hands. Let the plate cool on a dry towel, then wash it and dry it fully before returning it to the roller ring.
Clean spills soon so food does not harden around the turntable or door area. Keep the air openings clear, and do not block the bottom or sides required for ventilation.
A soft cloth with warm water usually handles most splashes, and a mild cleaner can be used outside if the manual allows it. Dried sauce around the turntable support can stop smooth rotation, so wipe that area regularly.
Use only microwave-safe cookware, and avoid operating an empty microwave. Follow the manual for cleaning products, turntable placement and model-specific safety instructions.
Metal, foil and some decorated dishes can spark, so check labels and keep damaged or metal-trimmed cookware out of the cavity. Leave a vent gap when covering food so steam can escape safely.
Keep the door seal clean, close the door gently and check that the turntable sits flat before starting the next cycle. For stainless and black stainless finishes, wipe in the direction of the grain and avoid abrasive pads.
Store the microwave on a level surface with the required clearance. Good airflow helps it run properly and keeps the cabinet and interior easier to maintain.
Which black stainless steel countertop microwave should you choose?
Choose Farberware if you want the best balance of black stainless finish, 1.1 cu. ft. capacity and 1000-watt output. Choose Sharp if larger portions and 1.4 cu. ft. capacity matter more than counter depth.
Choose the TOSHIBA 0.9 cu. ft. model for a smaller black stainless steel microwave countertop footprint. Pick BLACK+DECKER or GE when compact size matters more than an exact black stainless finish, and choose the larger BLACK+DECKER or Frigidaire for straightforward 1.1 cu. ft. cooking.
For brand comparisons, see our guide to what brand microwave is the best. If you prefer a smaller BLACK+DECKER, compare the best small BLACK+DECKER microwave, or review the best LG black stainless microwave for another finish-focused option.
Our top 3 picks at a glance
-
1
Best for compact stainless kitchens
BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven
9.6/10 our score
See it on Amazon -
2
-
3
Best for larger BLACK+DECKER capacity
BLACK+DECKER Microwave Oven Countertop
9.5/10 our score
See it on Amazon
Frequently asked questions
What is the best countertop microwave black stainless steel model?
The Farberware Countertop Microwave Oven is the best countertop microwave black stainless steel choice for most kitchens in this group. It combines a black stainless finish with 1.1 cu. ft. capacity, 1000 watts, 10 power levels and six preset options.
Choose Sharp if you need the largest capacity.
Is black stainless steel better than regular stainless steel?
Black stainless steel is mainly a finish choice, so the better option depends on your kitchen and the microwave's features. It can match black stainless appliances more closely, while regular stainless models may offer similar capacities and controls.
Compare size, power and clearance before choosing by color.
What size countertop microwave should you buy?
Choose 0.7 to 0.9 cu. ft. for compact meals, mugs and smaller counters. A 1.1 cu. ft. microwave is a flexible middle size, while the 1.2 and 1.4 cu. ft. models suit larger dishes and portions.
Measure width, depth, height and door clearance first.
Can you put an over-the-range microwave on a countertop?
Some over-the-range microwaves can physically sit on a counter, but they are designed for a different installation and ventilation setup. Read our guide on whether you can put an over-the-range microwave on a countertop before using one this way.
A countertop model is usually the simpler choice.
