6 Best Stainless Steel Microwave Finds 2025
Let’s face it, stainless steel appliances just look and feel more sophisticated, and that extends to your microwave. But with so many options out there, how do you find the best stainless steel microwave for your needs and budget? Fear not, fellow kitchen enthusiasts! We’ve done the heavy lifting and compiled a list of the top 6 best stainless steel microwave products on the market. From powerful countertop models to sleek over-the-range options, we’ve got you covered. Get ready to upgrade your microwave game and add a touch of modern elegance to your kitchen.
6. TOSHIBA ML2-EC10SA(BS) 8-in-1 Air Fryer Microwave
The TOSHIBA Air Fryer Combo 8-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven is a multi-functional appliance that aims to streamline your kitchen needs. Boasting eight cooking functions – microwave, air fry, bake, broil, combi, low temp, odor removal, and defrost – it promises versatility. However, nestled within this impressive list of features lie some potential drawbacks that warrant consideration.
While the air frying function does work, it’s not as powerful as dedicated air fryers. Expect slightly longer cooking times and perhaps not the same crispy results you’d get from a specialized appliance. The 1.0 cubic foot capacity is decent, allowing you to cook a whole roasted chicken or a 12-inch pizza, but it’s not expansive. For larger families or frequent batch cooking, this might feel limiting.
The 8-in-1 functionality is certainly a draw, but it’s important to note that each function might not excel equally. The microwave heating is adequate, but I found the convection baking to be a tad inconsistent. While the “odor removal” function is a nice touch, its effectiveness might vary depending on the type and intensity of the odor.
Despite these limitations, the TOSHIBA Air Fryer Combo offers convenience and a compact footprint. The one-touch popcorn button, easy-to-turn knobs, and position memory turntable are user-friendly additions. The sleek black stainless steel finish adds a touch of style to the kitchen. However, at its price point, I’d recommend carefully weighing its capabilities against dedicated microwave ovens and air fryers. If you’re looking for a truly powerful air fryer experience or require extensive cooking capacity, this combination appliance might not be the best fit.
5. Farberware 700 Watts Microwave, Easy Clean
The Farberware Countertop Microwave is a decent option for small spaces, offering a decent amount of power in a compact design. It boasts 700 watts of power, which is sufficient for reheating leftovers, defrosting frozen food, and even cooking some simple meals. The 0.7 cubic foot capacity is a good compromise between size and functionality, allowing you to fit a decent-sized plate or bowl inside.
One of the things I liked about this microwave is the variety of settings. There are ten power levels to choose from, along with six one-touch options for common tasks like popcorn, potatoes, and pizza. The multi-stage cooking function is also handy for more complex recipes. However, don’t expect gourmet results. This microwave is best suited for simple tasks and reheating rather than intricate cooking.
While the LED display and timer are clear and easy to use, the interior lighting could be brighter. It’s adequate for checking on food, but it’s not as bright as some other microwaves I’ve used, making it a bit difficult to see smaller items at the back. The child safety lock is a welcome feature, providing peace of mind for parents with curious little ones.
Overall, the Farberware Countertop Microwave offers good value for the price. It’s compact, powerful enough for everyday tasks, and has a user-friendly interface. However, don’t expect it to replace a full-sized oven. The limited interior lighting and basic cooking capabilities might be a drawback for users who need more advanced features.
4. SHARP SMC1162KS Carousel Microwave
The SHARP SMC1162KS is a mid-range countertop microwave that aims to deliver solid performance with a touch of style. At first glance, the stainless steel exterior and gray interior give it a modern look. The new white LED display and LED interior lighting are welcome additions, making it easy to see what’s cooking inside.
While the 1.1 cubic foot capacity is adequate for most households, it’s not the largest on the market. The 12.4-inch carousel turntable does a decent job of distributing heat evenly, and the 10 power levels with 2-stage cooking provide some flexibility. I found the pre-programmed settings for common dishes like popcorn and frozen meals to be convenient, especially the Orville Redenbacher’s Certified Popcorn preset which actually popped my kernels perfectly.
However, the “Express Cook” feature, which allows you to simply press a button for up to 6 minutes of cooking, felt a bit limiting. It lacks the granular control you get with manually setting the time. The “+30 seconds” button is helpful for quick adjustments, but it would be nice to have finer control over the cooking increments.
Overall, the SHARP SMC1162KS is a functional microwave that delivers on its basic promises. It’s easy to use and has a sleek design, but its limited capacity and somewhat restricted cooking controls might be a drawback for those who need more versatility. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly microwave with decent performance, it’s worth considering, but if you want advanced features and a larger capacity, you may want to explore other options.
3. TOSHIBA ML-EM45P Smart Sensor Microwave
The Toshiba ML-EM45P(BS) boasts a sleek black stainless steel finish that certainly elevates the appearance of my kitchen counter. It’s a sizable microwave with a 1.6 cu. ft. capacity and a 13.6” turntable, easily accommodating a 13-inch pizza. The included sensor menus are a nice touch, offering pre-programmed settings for common dishes like pizza, potatoes, and vegetables. While these sensors generally did a decent job of heating food evenly, I found that I often had to adjust the cooking time for optimal results.
One of the standout features of this microwave is the position-memory turntable. This innovation ensures the turntable returns to its starting position after each use, making it more convenient and safer to retrieve items. The inclusion of features like auto defrost, fast cooking, memory function, multi-stage cooking, a child safety lock, a clock, and a kitchen timer adds to its overall functionality.
However, there are a few drawbacks to consider. The sound output of the buzzer can be quite loud and jarring, and while the sound-on/off function is helpful, I found the process of activating and deactivating it a bit cumbersome. The keypad also felt a bit plasticky and less responsive than I’d prefer.
Overall, the Toshiba ML-EM45P(BS) is a decent microwave oven, offering a good balance of features and performance. Its stylish design and generous capacity are appealing, but the occasionally inconsistent sensor cooking and somewhat clunky sound control system hold it back from being truly exceptional. While it’s not the most expensive microwave on the market, I’m not sure if it offers the best value for money compared to some of its competitors.
2. BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Stainless Steel, Child Lock
The BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 is a fantastic microwave for everyday use. As a user who’s tested it out extensively, I can confidently say that it offers great value for the price. With its sleek stainless steel finish, it looks stylish in any kitchen. The 0.7 cubic foot capacity is ample for most households, easily accommodating a dinner plate or leftovers. While it’s not the largest microwave on the market, it’s perfect for individuals or smaller families.
What really sets this microwave apart are its user-friendly features. The large LED display is crystal clear and the intuitive control panel makes navigating through the settings a breeze. I especially appreciate the pre-programmed buttons for common items like popcorn, potato, pizza, and frozen vegetables. These one-touch options save time and ensure perfectly cooked results every time. The 700 watts of power, combined with 10 power settings, give you plenty of control over your cooking needs. Whether you’re heating up a quick snack or defrosting a frozen meal, this microwave handles it all with ease.
Safety is a priority with this model. The child safety lock prevents accidental use by little hands, and the interior light allows you to easily monitor your food without opening the door and losing heat. The 30-second express cooking feature is perfect for those quick bursts of microwaving, while the clock and kitchen timer add extra functionality. The removable 10-inch glass turntable ensures even heating and is a breeze to clean.
Overall, the BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a reliable, feature-packed microwave at an affordable price. It’s easy to use, stylish, and gets the job done efficiently. The only minor drawback I’ve noticed is that the door doesn’t quite close as smoothly as some pricier models. However, this is a minor inconvenience and doesn’t detract from the overall performance of the microwave.
1. Cuisinart CMW-100 Stainless Steel Microwave
The Cuisinart CMW-100 is a solid choice for a countertop microwave, offering a great balance of features and performance at a reasonable price. Its 1000-watt power and spacious 1-cubic-foot interior easily handle everything from reheating leftovers to preparing simple meals. The stainless steel interior is a huge plus, as it resists stains and odors, making cleanup a breeze.
One of the things I really appreciated about this microwave is the intuitive touchpad interface with the LCD display. The 25 preprogrammed settings and 10 power levels offer a wide range of cooking options, and the 8 presets with serving-size options are incredibly convenient. I found myself using the 2-stage cooking operation frequently, allowing me to combine different cooking methods for more complex dishes.
The CMW-100 is also packed with useful features like two defrost functions, a spacious 12-inch glass turntable, and even a dark tinted glass window to peek at your food without letting out heat. The instruction manual is well-written and includes a variety of recipes to get you started. The only minor drawback I noticed is that the unit is a bit on the heavier side at 37.90 lbs, so moving it around might be a challenge for some users.
Overall, the Cuisinart CMW-100 is a reliable and feature-packed microwave that delivers excellent value for its price. Its user-friendly design, spacious interior, and powerful performance make it a worthwhile investment for any kitchen.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What features should I look for in a stainless steel microwave?
A:
When choosing a stainless steel microwave, consider these features:
- Size and Capacity: Choose a size that fits your needs and countertop space.
- Power Level: Look for a microwave with sufficient wattage for your cooking needs.
- Cooking Functions: Consider features like sensor cooking, reheating, and defrosting.
- Control Panel: Choose a control panel that is easy to use and understand.
- Interior Design: Some microwaves have interior lighting or turntable designs that can be helpful.
- Safety Features: Look for features like child locks and auto shut-off.
Q: How do I clean a stainless steel microwave?
A: To clean your stainless steel microwave, follow these steps:
- Unplug the microwave.
- Mix a solution of warm water and mild dish soap.
- Wipe down the interior surfaces with the solution and a soft cloth.
- Rinse the interior with clean water and dry thoroughly.
- For stubborn stains, use a baking soda paste.
Q: Is stainless steel a good material for a microwave?
A: Yes, stainless steel is a good material for a microwave. It is durable, easy to clean, and resistant to rust and corrosion.
Conclusion
From everyday essentials to elegant additions, the stainless steel microwave market offers a range of choices to suit every need and style. Whether you prioritize durability, sleek aesthetics, or innovative features, there’s a perfect stainless steel microwave waiting to elevate your kitchen experience. Invest in one today and enjoy the convenience and style it brings to your daily routine.