10 Best Stainless Steel Microwaves 2025 in the United States

The TOSHIBA EM131A5C-SS Countertop Microwave stands out with its large 1.2 cubic feet capacity, making it suitable for a family-sized kitchen. Its 1100 watts of power ensures efficient cooking and heating, supported by 10 power settings for versatility.

The microwave features a smart humidity sensor and 12 auto menus, which simplify cooking popular foods like pizza and veggies. This can be particularly useful for those who prefer convenience in food preparation. The removable 12.4-inch turntable aids in even cooking and is easy to clean, though some may prefer a flatbed design for uniform heating without the need for rotating dishes. The control panel is user-friendly with a large digital display, but the protective film can be a minor inconvenience initially.

The mute function is a thoughtful addition for those who dislike loud beeps. The microwave's stainless steel finish gives it a stylish look that fits modern kitchens, and its ECO mode helps save energy. However, the unit is quite heavy at 34.6 pounds, which might be cumbersome for some users. Additionally, while it includes ventilation, it lacks advanced venting options that some higher-end models offer. Despite these minor drawbacks, its functionality, efficient cooking, and ease of use make it a standout product in the countertop microwave category.

The BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 is a compact stainless steel microwave with a 0.7 cubic feet capacity, making it a good fit for small kitchens or users who need a simple, space-saving appliance. With 700 watts of power, it offers enough strength for everyday cooking tasks but might take a bit longer to heat larger or denser foods compared to higher-wattage models. The microwave features ten power settings and handy pre-programmed buttons for common items like popcorn, pizza, and frozen vegetables, which makes it user-friendly, especially for those who prefer one-touch cooking.

The control panel includes a large LED digital display that’s easy to read, along with a clock and kitchen timer, adding convenience for timing your cooking without extra devices. The 10-inch removable glass turntable ensures even cooking, but it uses a traditional turntable rather than a flatbed design, so the internal space might feel a bit smaller, and larger plates may not fit as easily. The push-button door release is simple to use, and the included child safety lock adds peace of mind for families with young children. Its stainless steel finish not only looks modern but also helps with durability and cleaning.

This microwave is designed as a countertop model and doesn't have built-in ventilation, so it’s best used in well-ventilated kitchens or under a separate vent hood. While the microwave is lightweight at 22.5 pounds and easy to move, the 700-watt power and smaller capacity mean it’s most suitable for light to moderate cooking rather than heavy or large meal preparation. This model presents a reliable, straightforward choice for anyone needing a basic, efficient microwave with essential features and a stylish stainless steel look.

The Toshiba ML-EM62P(SS) microwave is a solid choice for large families due to its 2.2 cubic feet capacity and 1200 watts of power. This spacious microwave can handle large items like a 16-inch pizza or a whole chicken, making meal preparation more convenient. The built-in humidity sensor ensures even heating and maintains moisture, resulting in better cooking outcomes. With six auto menus, including options for bacon, beverages, and oatmeal, it caters to common daily needs efficiently. The auto-defrost function is a handy feature for thawing meat, poultry, and fish, simulating natural conditions for optimal results.

In terms of user-friendliness, it offers an ECO mode for energy saving, a mute option for quiet operation, a memory function to store your favorite settings, and a child safety lock for added security. The position memory turntable is also a thoughtful addition, ensuring your dishes are correctly placed every time. However, its large size, with dimensions of 19.6 inches in depth, 24.4 inches in width, and 13.6 inches in height, may require considerable counter space, which might not be ideal for smaller kitchens.

The control panel is straightforward but could appear a bit overwhelming at first due to the numerous functions. Additionally, while stainless steel looks sleek, it may require frequent cleaning to maintain its appearance. This microwave is best suited for users who need a high-capacity, multifunctional appliance and have enough counter space to accommodate it.