7 Best Stainless Steel Microwaves (November 2026)
The best stainless steel microwaves include the BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven for compact everyday cooking, the TOSHIBA Countertop Microwave Oven for sensor cooking and capacity, and the GE Countertop Microwave Oven for balanced family-size space.
On this page (3 sections)
The best stainless steel microwave for most kitchens is the BLACK+DECKER 0.7 Cu.Ft. model, with 700W power, 10 power settings and a compact footprint.
That balance matters because most daily microwave use is reheating, warming drinks and cooking single portions. You get enough control to lower the power for gentle warming, plus preset buttons for the foods you cook most often.
Choose TOSHIBA for more capacity and sensor cooking, or GE for a balanced 1.1 cu. ft. countertop size.
We compared stainless steel microwave models by capacity, power, cabinet size, controls, preset cooking and defrost options.
All 7 picks are countertop microwaves, so measure your space before choosing a finish or feature set.
Capacity is the first practical choice you should make. A 0.7 cu. ft. cavity suits mugs, small plates and leftovers, while a 1.1 or 1.2 cu. ft. cavity gives wider dishes more room.
Power is the second choice. Lower wattage can mean longer cooking times, while higher wattage often reduces time for the same food.
That does not mean the highest wattage is always best for you. The right level depends on the size of the cabinet, the foods you heat and how much counter space you can give up.
Controls also shape daily use. Some people prefer one touch presets, while others prefer a keypad with several power levels for closer control.
Defrost options matter too if you often thaw food before cooking. Weight or time based defrost can make that task simpler, especially when you are working with frozen portions.
Cabinet size can be easy to overlook when you focus on the stainless steel finish. Width, depth and height all need to fit the space you have, with room left for airflow and door access.
If you're comparing finishes, see our guide to what brand microwave is the best for a wider look at microwave brands.
You can also compare these models with best white microwave ovens if color matters more than the stainless steel finish.
Use this roundup to narrow the choice by size and cooking style first. After that, the finish becomes a simpler decision because the practical differences are already clear.
Our picks at a glance
-
1
Best for compact everyday cookingBLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven
9.6/10 our score
See it on Amazon -
2
Best for sensor cooking and capacityTOSHIBA Countertop Microwave Oven
9.6/10 our score
See it on Amazon -
3
- 4
Check itFrigidaire Countertop Microwave
Best for small spaces and simple controls - 5
Check itBLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven
Best for more power in a compact cabinet - 6
Best for tight GE countertop setupsCheck it - 7
Check itFarberware Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 cu.ft.
Best for flexible small-space cooking
The best stainless steel microwaves by use
The best stainless steel microwaves depend on your available counter space and the dishes you heat most often. Compact 0.7 cu. ft. models suit small kitchens, while the 1.1 and 1.2 cu. ft. options give you more room for larger dishes.
Our score weighs specs, features and buyer feedback against what you're shopping for. The products below are ordered from highest score to lowest score.
| Product | Best for | Capacity | Power | Size | Our score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven | compact everyday cooking | 0.7 cu. ft. | 700W | 17.3 W x 13 D x 10.2 H in | 9.6 |
| TOSHIBA Countertop Microwave Oven | sensor cooking and capacity | 1.2 cu. ft. | 1000W output | 20.6 W x 14.6 D x 11.8 H in | 9.6 |
| GE Countertop Microwave Oven | balanced family-size space | 1.1 cu. ft. | 950W | 15.63 D x 20.31 W x 12 H in | 9.5 |
| Frigidaire Countertop Microwave | small spaces and simple controls | 0.7 cu. ft. | 700W | 12.3 D x 17.8 W x 10.2 H in | 8.5 |
| BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven | more power in a compact cabinet | 0.9 cu. ft. | 900W | 18.7 W x 13.4 D x 10.7 H in | 8.1 |
| GE Countertop Microwave | tight GE countertop setups | 0.7 cu. ft. | 700W | 17.31 W x 12.75 D x 10.19 H in | 8.0 |
| Farberware Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 cu.ft. | flexible small-space cooking | 0.7 cu. ft. | 700W | 12.99 D x 17.3 W x 10.14 H in | 7.8 |
1. BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven: Best for compact everyday cooking
BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven: Best for compact everyday cooking
- 0.7 cu. ft. capacity
- 700W cooking power
- 10 power settings
- Removable 10 in glass turntable
This compact stainless steel microwave combines 700W cooking with 10 power settings, preset buttons and a removable glass turntable.
Pros
- Compact footprint
- Child safety lock
- Push-button door release
Cons
- Smaller capacity than the 1.1 and 1.2 cu. ft. models
- 700W power may need longer cooking times
The BLACK+DECKER 0.7 Cu.Ft. model is the strongest compact pick for everyday reheating and small meals. Its 700W power and 10 power settings give you control over low-power warming as well as full-power cooking.
The compact cabinet measures 17.3 in wide, 13 in deep and 10.2 in high. That makes it easier to consider for a smaller counter, but the 0.7 cu. ft. capacity is better suited to modest dishes than large family-size containers.
Six pre-programmed buttons cover popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen vegetable, beverage and dinner plate settings. The 30-second express cooking function helps when you need a quick start without entering a longer time.
A removable 10 in glass turntable, interior light and large LED display support daily use. The push-button door release gives you button-operated access, while the child safety lock adds a control option for shared spaces.
Choose this model when compact dimensions and straightforward controls matter most. If you regularly use larger dishes, the TOSHIBA or GE 1.1 cu. ft. model gives you more interior capacity.
2. TOSHIBA Countertop Microwave Oven: Best for sensor cooking and capacity
TOSHIBA Countertop Microwave Oven: Best for sensor cooking and capacity
- 1.2 cu. ft. capacity
- 1000W output power
- Smart humidity sensor
- 12.4 in glass turntable
TOSHIBA gives you the largest capacity here, 1000W output power, smart humidity sensing and multiple preset menus.
Pros
- Largest capacity in this roundup
- Smart humidity sensor
- 10 power levels
Cons
- Largest footprint here
- Higher input power than the compact models
The TOSHIBA 1.2 Cu.Ft. model is the best stainless steel microwave here when you want the most capacity and sensor-based cooking. It has 1000W output power, 10 power levels and a smart humidity sensor that adjusts cooking time and power based on food humidity.
Its external dimensions are 20.6 in wide, 14.6 in deep and 11.8 in high. That is the largest footprint in this group, so measure both your counter and the space above it before choosing this model.
The 12.4 in glass turntable gives you more room than the 10 in turntables on some compact models. Six preset menu options cover foods such as pizza and vegetables, while the cooking programs include reheat, defrost, cook and boil.
Defrost can be set by weight or time. One-touch start lets you begin cooking from 1 to 6 minutes at full power, and the clock and kitchen timer handle basic timing tasks.
Choose TOSHIBA if capacity and sensor cooking are more useful to you than a small footprint. For a similar finish with a smaller cabinet, compare the 0.7 cu. ft.
BLACK+DECKER or Frigidaire.
3. GE Countertop Microwave Oven: Best for balanced family-size space
GE Countertop Microwave Oven: Best for balanced family-size space
- 1.1 cu. ft. capacity
- 950W energy consumption
- 6 convenience cook settings
- Child lock
This GE countertop model sits between the compact and larger picks, with 1.1 cu. ft. of capacity, one-touch controls and defrost modes.
Pros
- Balanced capacity
- Child lock
- Auto and manual defrost
Cons
- Needs clearance around the cabinet
- Slightly taller than the compact models
The GE Countertop Microwave Oven is a balanced choice for shoppers who want more room than a compact model without moving to the largest microwave here. Its 1.1 cu. ft. capacity and 950W power fit everyday meals, leftovers and larger dishes than the 0.7 cu. ft. picks.
The cabinet measures 15.63 in deep, 20.31 in wide and 12 in high. GE calls for 3 in of clearance on each side and above, plus 1 in at the rear, with the bottom fully unobstructed for airflow.
One-touch express cooking and 6 convenience cook settings keep common tasks simple. The digital display and electronic keypad let you enter cooking time and power settings directly.
The defrost function includes manual and auto modes. A glass turntable supports even heating, and the child lock can be disabled when you don't need it.
Choose this GE when your counter can support a wider, taller cabinet and you want a middle-size stainless steel microwave. If your space is tight, the smaller GE GCST07N1WSS uses 0.7 cu. ft. and 700W power.
4. Frigidaire Countertop Microwave: Best for small spaces and simple controls
Frigidaire Countertop Microwave: Best for small spaces and simple controls
- 0.7 cu. ft. capacity
- 700W power
- 6 auto cooking settings
- 10 power levels
Frigidaire is a compact choice for dormitories, apartments and workplaces, with digital controls, six auto settings and two defrost timers.
Pros
- Compact dimensions
- 10 power levels
- Child safety lock
Cons
- 700W power
- Smaller cooking area
The Frigidaire Countertop Microwave is a good fit for dormitories, apartment kitchens and workplaces where 0.7 cu. ft. capacity is enough. It uses 700W power and measures 12.3 in deep, 17.8 in wide and 10.2 in high.
Its digital control panel supports express cooking, power changes, delayed start, time entry and stop or cancel commands. The layout suits buyers who want direct controls instead of a larger sensor-focused microwave.
Six auto cooking settings cover popcorn, baked potato, pizza, frozen food, reheat and beverage. Two defrost timers give you separate ways to thaw food, while 10 power levels help you reduce heat for delicate warming.
The removable glass turntable supports routine cleaning and repositioning. A child safety lock helps prevent inadvertent use in shared spaces.
Choose Frigidaire when cabinet size and simple digital controls matter more than higher wattage. For a compact microwave with the same 700W level and more named one-touch buttons, compare the BLACK+DECKER 0.7 cu. ft. model.
5. BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven: Best for more power in a compact cabinet
BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven: Best for more power in a compact cabinet
- 0.9 cu. ft. capacity
- 900W power
- 10.6 in glass turntable
- 6 auto cook presets
This BLACK+DECKER adds 900W power and 0.9 cu. ft. capacity while keeping a relatively low cabinet height.
Pros
- 900W power
- 10 power levels
- Push-button door release
Cons
- Black enclosure with stainless steel door frame
- Wider than the 0.7 cu. ft. BLACK+DECKER
The 0.9 Cu.Ft. BLACK+DECKER model is for shoppers who want 900W power without moving to a 1.1 or 1.2 cu. ft. cabinet.
It measures 18.7 in wide, 13.4 in deep and 10.7 in high.
That extra 200W over the 700W compact picks can help shorten cooking times, while 10 power settings let you lower the output for warming and defrosting. The 0.9 cu. ft. capacity gives you more space than the smaller BLACK+DECKER.
Six auto cook presets cover popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen vegetable, beverage and dinner plate. The large LED display shows the clock, countdown timer and remaining cooking time.
A removable 10.6 in glass turntable and interior light support daily use. The push-button door release is easy to operate, and the child safety lock adds a useful control for families.
The stainless steel door frame contrasts with a black enclosure, so this is not a fully stainless steel exterior. Choose it when power and a moderate capacity matter more than matching every exterior panel.
6. GE Countertop Microwave: Best for tight GE countertop setups
GE Countertop Microwave: Best for tight GE countertop setups
- 0.7 cu. ft. capacity
- 700W power
- 4 convenience cook settings
- Auto and manual defrost
This compact GE model fits small kitchens, dorms, offices and apartments, with one-touch controls and a glass turntable.
Pros
- Small footprint
- Child lock
- Auto defrost
Cons
- 700W power
- Only 4 convenience cook settings
The GE GCST07N1WSS is a compact stainless steel microwave for tight counters, dorms, offices and apartments. Its 0.7 cu. ft. capacity and 700W power suit reheating, snacks and simple daily meals.
The dimensions are 17.31 in wide, 12.75 in deep and 10.19 in high. GE calls for 3 in of clearance on each side and above, 1 in at the rear, and an unobstructed bottom.
One-touch express cooking and 4 convenience cook settings provide quick access to common tasks. The digital display and electronic keypad give you direct control over cooking time and power.
Manual and auto defrost modes help thaw food with time and power adjustments. The glass turntable supports even heating, while the child lock adds a safety option for shared spaces.
Choose this model when you want GE branding and a compact stainless steel cabinet. If you want more preset options in a similar capacity, the BLACK+DECKER and Frigidaire models offer more named cooking buttons.
7. Farberware Countertop Microwave Oven: Best for flexible small-space cooking
Farberware Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 cu.ft.: Best for flexible small-space cooking
- 0.7 cu. ft. capacity
- 700W power
- 10 power levels
- Multi-stage cooking
Farberware offers 10 power levels, multi-stage cooking, six preset options and defrost by weight or time in a compact cabinet.
Pros
- Multi-stage cooking
- Defrost by weight or time
- Child safety lock
Cons
- 700W power
- 0.7 cu. ft. capacity
The Farberware 0.7 cu.ft. microwave is a compact option with more cooking control than its size suggests. It has 700W power, 10 power levels and multi-stage cooking, so you can set more than one cooking stage for a meal.
The cabinet measures 12.99 in deep, 17.3 in wide and 10.14 in high. That makes it one of the smaller choices here, although its 0.7 cu. ft. capacity limits the size of dishes you can use.
Six one-touch options include popcorn, potato and pizza. Defrost can be set by weight or time, and the memory function lets you save favorite settings.
The LED display shows the clock, kitchen timer and remaining cook time. Interior lighting helps you watch the dish, while the child safety lock adds protection in a shared kitchen.
Choose Farberware if multi-stage cooking and flexible defrost settings are important. For a similar compact footprint with a push-button door release, compare the BLACK+DECKER 0.7 cu. ft. model.
How to choose the best stainless steel microwave
The best stainless steel microwave is the one that fits your counter, cooking habits and preferred controls. Start with cabinet dimensions, then compare capacity and power before choosing preset menus or sensor features.
What size stainless steel microwave fits your counter?
Measure the open space by width, depth and height, then compare those numbers with the microwave cabinet. Leave the airflow clearance required for the model, and account for the door opening area.
The compact picks are close to 17 to 18 in wide and about 10 in high. The TOSHIBA is 20.6 in wide and 11.8 in high, while the GE 1.1 cu. ft. model is 20.31 in wide and 12 in high.
Don't measure only the front opening. Depth matters too, especially when the microwave sits near a backsplash, cabinet edge or wall.
Is 0.7 cu. ft. enough for daily use?
A 0.7 cu. ft. microwave is enough for drinks, leftovers, small plates and many packaged foods. It is easier to fit in a dorm, office or small apartment, but it gives you less room for wide dishes.
The 0.9 cu. ft. BLACK+DECKER offers a middle option with more capacity and 900W power.
The GE 1.1 cu. ft. and TOSHIBA 1.2 cu. ft. models make more sense when you often heat larger plates or containers.
Capacity is not the same as usable dish space. Check the turntable size when a specific plate or bowl must fit.
How much microwave power do you need?
Choose 700W for basic reheating and simple cooking, 900W for a faster compact option, or 950W to 1000W when you want more output in a larger cabinet. Cooking times may vary by food, container and starting temperature.
The compact BLACK+DECKER, Frigidaire, GE and Farberware models use 700W. The larger GE uses 950W, the BLACK+DECKER 0.9 cu. ft. model uses 900W and TOSHIBA provides 1000W output power.
Follow package instructions as a starting point, then check food before adding more time. Lower power settings can help warm food more gently.
Do stainless steel microwaves need special cookware?
Use containers marked microwave-safe and follow the instructions for the specific microwave. If you're unsure about a metal item, read our guide to microwave safe metal containers before using it.
Stainless steel on the outside does not mean every metal container is safe inside. Keep the cooking cavity clear of materials that the manual does not approve.
Which controls are easiest to use?
Preset buttons are useful for repeated foods such as popcorn, pizza, potatoes and beverages. A keypad with 10 power levels gives you more control when you reheat different portions or defrost by time.
Sensor cooking adds another approach. The TOSHIBA uses a smart humidity sensor, while several other models focus on preset buttons, manual controls and auto defrost.
Choose the control style you will use most often. More buttons are not automatically better if you mainly reheat one plate at a time.
Should you choose a handle or push-button door?
A handle gives you a physical grip, while a push-button door release lets you open the microwave by pressing a control. The BLACK+DECKER models here use push-button door release, while the Farberware description includes an easy-grip handle.
If door access is a deciding factor, compare these picks with best stainless steel microwaves with handles. For another finish option, see best black stainless steel microwaves.
How do you care for a stainless steel microwave?
Wipe spills after the cavity cools, clean the turntable according to the manual and keep the ventilation area clear.
Remove the glass turntable carefully when cleaning around the roller ring.
That routine helps prevent splashes from building up on the cavity walls and turntable. It also makes the next cleaning easier because fresh spills are usually easier to remove than older residue.
Do not block the bottom or surrounding airflow space.
The GE models specifically call for clearance at the sides, top and rear, so treat those measurements as part of installation.
In practice, that means checking space above the cabinet as well as space beside it. A microwave that fits by width can still be a poor fit if the area above it is too low.
Keep the counter below the microwave fully clear and avoid placing items that could interfere with airflow. Good airflow supports normal operation and helps you follow the installation guidance for the model.
For care, use a soft cloth and the cleaning method described in the manual for the interior and exterior. Avoid harsh treatment that could affect the finish or the controls.
Check the turntable and roller ring during cleaning so food debris does not collect underneath. Replacing the turntable correctly after cleaning helps it sit level for even movement.
Store the manual where you can check defrost, power and cleaning instructions quickly. That is more useful than guessing how a setting works when you need it.
For a black stainless steel countertop look, compare best black stainless steel countertop microwaves.
For brand-specific comparisons, see best stainless steel Whirlpool microwaves and best Sharp microwaves.
Which stainless steel microwave should you choose?
Pick the BLACK+DECKER 0.7 Cu.Ft. model if you want the best balance of compact size, 700W power, 10 settings and useful preset buttons.
That choice suits smaller counters and everyday reheating. The removable glass turntable and child safety lock also make it a practical option for shared kitchens.
Choose TOSHIBA when 1.2 cu. ft. capacity and smart humidity sensing matter more than counter space.
That model is better suited when you regularly heat larger dishes or want humidity based adjustment. Its larger cabinet still needs careful measuring before you buy.
Pick GE's 1.1 cu. ft. model for a middle size cabinet with 950W power and 6 convenience settings.
It sits between compact and large options, which can be useful if the smaller models feel too tight. Check the required clearance around the cabinet before deciding on this size.
Choose Frigidaire, GE's 0.7 cu. ft. model or Farberware for a compact setup.
Each of those options keeps the footprint smaller than the 1.1 and 1.2 cu. ft. picks. The best fit among them will depend on the controls and presets you prefer for daily cooking.
Select the 0.9 cu. ft. BLACK+DECKER when you want more power without the larger footprint of a family size microwave.
Its 900W power and 10 power levels give you more speed and control in a still moderate cabinet. Note the black enclosure with a stainless steel door frame if a fully stainless exterior matters to you.
Measure your counter first, then match capacity and power to the dishes you cook most often. That order will help you choose a microwave that fits your kitchen and your routine.
Our top 3 picks at a glance
-
1
Best for compact everyday cooking
BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven
9.6/10 our score
See it on Amazon -
2
Best for sensor cooking and capacity
TOSHIBA Countertop Microwave Oven
9.6/10 our score
See it on Amazon -
3
Frequently asked questions
What is the best stainless steel microwave for most kitchens?
The BLACK+DECKER 0.7 Cu.Ft. model is the best stainless steel microwave for most small kitchens because it combines 700W power, 10 power settings, preset cooking buttons and a removable glass turntable in a compact cabinet.
Choose TOSHIBA instead when you need 1.2 cu. ft. of capacity and smart humidity sensing.
Is stainless steel good for a microwave?
Stainless steel is a practical microwave exterior finish because it gives the appliance a metal look that fits many kitchen designs. The models here are countertop microwaves with stainless steel finishes or stainless steel designs.
Use only cookware labeled microwave-safe inside the oven and follow the microwave manual for materials.
What size stainless steel microwave should you buy?
Choose a 0.7 cu. ft. microwave for compact spaces and smaller meals, 0.9 to 1.1 cu. ft. for a middle ground, or 1.2 cu. ft. when you regularly heat larger dishes.
Measure the available width, depth and height, then leave the clearance required by the model.
Is 700W enough for everyday microwave cooking?
Yes, 700W is enough for reheating leftovers, warming drinks and cooking common microwave foods, but it may take longer than a 900W or 1000W model. Use the food package instructions as a starting point and adjust time carefully.
The BLACK+DECKER, Frigidaire, GE and Farberware compact picks use 700W power.
