9+ Best Stainless Steel Microwave | Unrivaled Guide 2022

Microwave ovens have a bad reputation for being an easy way to get a quick dinner and usually a frozen meal. But today’s microwaves don’t just heat up cold coffee or a packet of macaroni and cheese (not that there’s anything wrong with that!). The cooking capabilities of microwaves are more important than ever, especially if you want to defrost meat for dinner.

Microwave ovens are the most common, but range hoods can also complement your kitchen ensemble, especially if you want all appliances to be single-brand appliances with matching handles and other details. Whichever type you choose, pick a microwave that scores high in member surveys measuring reliability and owner satisfaction.

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Best Stainless Steel Microwave

Types of microwave

Countertop Microwaves

Attractive prices and easy installation. Just plug it into a standard power socket. If the circuit breaker is not designed for microwave ovens, it may trip. Rated for ease of use. Please also check the external dimensions of the microwave and consider the available space. Stainless steel surfaces are common, and more and more models have a convection function.

Usable capacity

Most test models in this category have a load capacity of about 50-60% of that specified by the manufacturer.

Power

700-950 (small)
900-1,200 (medium)
1,000-1,250 (large)

Over-the-Range Microwaves

These OTR models can free up counter space. However, they can exhaust air out, but don’t expect exhaust air like a range hood. Installation may require an electrician.

Available capacities

Most OTRs are about 40-50% of the manufacturer’s stated operating capacity.

Power

850-1,100 watts

Built-in microwave ovens

Built-in microwave ovens are housed in a cabinet or recessed in a wall. For example, the microwave box can be placed under the worktop to block the line of sight and slide out for easy access, or it can be installed under a wall oven. The look is sophisticated and unified. Some table top microwave ovens can be built in using a mounting kit. The information below applies to built-in models only and does not apply to countertop models with an optional built-in kit.

Available capacity

Since the built-in models have not yet been fully tested, the percentage of usable capacity has been determined by comparing it to the capacity published by the manufacturer.

Power

950-1 100 watts

Best Stainless Steel Microwave | Comparison Table 2022

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Best Stainless Steel Microwave  | 2022 Products Overview

Product Overview:

The Panasonic Microwave Oven NN-SN686S is a versatile and feature-rich appliance that can be used as a countertop or built-in microwave. With a 1.2 cubic foot capacity and 1200 watts of power, this stainless steel microwave can cook food evenly and quickly. The patented Inverter Technology generates a continuous stream of power, preventing overcooking, and the Advanced Inverter Turbo Defrost feature speeds up defrosting time.

The compact design of this microwave features a 13.4 inch turntable and allows for a larger interior capacity. The built-in automatic Genius Sensor adjusts power and cooking times based on the food being cooked, and there are 14 preset menu items, a quick minute timer, delay start and a child safety lock for added convenience.

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Product Overview:

The BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven is a 700-watt, 0.7 cubic feet countertop microwave oven with a stainless steel finish. It features pre-programmed buttons for cooking a variety of popular food items, 10 power settings, and a clock and kitchen timer. The microwave oven has a large LED digital display, easy-to-read control panel, and a child safety lock. The interior of the microwave oven is equipped with an interior light, and a removable 10” glass turntable. The microwave oven has dimensions of 17.3” x 13.0” x 10.2”, and has a push-button door release for easy access.

The BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Microwave Oven is designed for countertop use and has a recirculating ventilation type. The microwave oven is UL approved and comes with a one-year limited warranty. This model of the BLACK+DECKER microwave oven is available at a lower price from other sellers, but this particular listing is offered on Amazon with a 12% discount, bringing the price down to $88.00.

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Product Overview:

The Farberware Classic FM09SS 0.9 Cu. Ft 900-Watt Microwave Oven is a stylish and powerful kitchen appliance that can help you cook with ease. This stainless steel microwave oven has a capacity of 0.9 cubic feet and is designed for countertop installation. It features 10 power levels and multi-stage cooking, allowing you to fully customize your cooking experience. With its 6 one-touch cooking programs, you can quickly cook your food without any hassle.

The LED display with kitchen timer and clock allows you to keep track of time while the easy-view interior LED lighting lets you keep an eye on your cooking. The microwave also offers convenient defrost by weight or by time settings, making it easy for you to get dinner on the table even when you forget to pre-prep your food. The stylish stainless steel front with black body gives this microwave oven a stylish and elegant look, while the child safety lock function provides added security. The 1-6 min. express cooking and +30 sec. button offer simple press-and-go speed and the memory function allows you to store your most used customized settings. The interior dimensions of the Farberware Classic FM09SS Microwave Oven are 13.66 x 12.36 x 8.7.

Product Overview:

The Toshiba EM131A5C-SS Countertop Microwave Oven is a stylish and functional appliance for your kitchen. It has a capacity of 1.2 cubic feet, making it spacious enough to fit a 12-inch pizza. The interior is easy to clean, and the exterior is made of stainless steel, giving it a sleek and modern appearance.

This microwave oven features a pre-programmed sensor menu for heating popular foods like pizza, potatoes, and vegetables with ease. It has a power wattage of 1100W and a rated voltage of 120V - 60Hz. The microwave has 10 power settings, and you can defrost your food by time and weight. The large digital display and easy-to-read control panel make it easy to use, and the microwave also includes a clock and kitchen timer. Additionally, the microwave has a mute function, which allows you to turn off the buzzer if desired.

Product Overview:

The SAMSUNG 1.9 Cu Ft Countertop Microwave Oven is a versatile appliance with a large capacity, perfect for cooking a variety of dishes. With its built-in capability, it can be paired with a trim kit for a sleek, customized look that blends seamlessly into your built-in kitchen. This microwave also features a ceramic enamel interior which is scratch-resistant and easy to clean.

In addition to its aesthetic appeal, the SAMSUNG 1.9 Cu Ft Microwave is packed with features to make cooking and heating food effortless. It has a 950 watt power and a touch controller for convenient usage. The sensor cook function ensures that your soup or frozen dinner is cooked to perfection every time. The microwave also comes with a variety of preset cooking options and an eco mode that reduces standby power. To keep the appliance looking great, it features a fingerprint resistant finish.

Product Overview:

The Panasonic Microwave Oven is a stainless steel countertop/built-in appliance that features Cyclonic Wave technology with Inverter Technology and Genius Sensor. This microwave has a 2.2 cubic foot capacity and is capable of delivering 1250 watts of power. It is recommended for residential use and is available in a keypad style. The microwave oven features a 16.5-inch turntable and has dimensions of 19.5 inches in diameter, 23.9 inches in width and 14 inches in height.

Cyclonic Wave technology maintains the full flavor and nutrients of your favorite foods, ensuring ultra-efficient cooking at all temperature levels. The patented Inverter Technology generates a seamless stream of power, delivering consistent and evenly prepared food without the risk of overcooking. The built-in automatic sensor adjusts power and cooking times based on different foods, while the Inverter Turbo Defrost speeds up the defrosting process. The microwave also comes with 20 preset menu items, a quick-minute timer, a delay start function and a child safety lock. Additionally, the Inverter technology can be used to keep soups, gravies, or desserts warm and fresh until you are ready to serve them.

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Product Overview:

The Farberware Countertop Microwave is a compact and powerful microwave oven that packs 1000 Watts of output power. With its small size, it is the ideal solution for any home or office where space is limited. This microwave offers 10 power levels with multi-stage cooking, making it possible to fully customize your cooking experience. There are six one-touch cooking programs, including popcorn, potatoes, and pizza, which make cooking quick and easy. The defrost function by weight or time also helps with cooking tasks.

The LED display with kitchen timer and clock allows you to keep track of time while cooking, and the easy-view interior LED lighting makes it easy to keep an eye on your food. The exterior is made of stylish stainless-steel with a front and handle that gives it an elegant and stylish look. The child safety lock function provides added security and peace of mind, and the keypad lock helps prevent unsupervised use. The interior dimensions of this microwave are 14.5 x 9.1 inches, with an exterior dimension of 20.2 x 16.54 x 12 inches. The turntable diameter is 12.5 inches.

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Product Overview:

The Samsung MS14K6000AS/AA MS14K6000 Speed-Cooking-Microwave-oven is a 1.4 cubic feet stainless steel microwave oven. It has received 4.3 out of 5 stars with 1,690 ratings and 92 answered questions. This microwave oven is designed to make cooking food quick, easy and convenient. It has a Sensor Cook feature that automatically adjusts cooking time based on moisture and temperature sensors, ensuring optimal heating.

The Triple Distribution System improves the heat distribution, cooking food more evenly and thoroughly. The ceramic enamel interior is scratch resistant and easy to clean, making it effortless to remove grease or oil from surfaces. It is designed to be placed on a countertop and is a residential microwave oven with a wattage of 1.

Product Overview:

The Panasonic NN-SU696S Microwave Oven is a 1.3 cubic feet capacity countertop oven made of stainless steel and silver. It has received a 4.4 out of 5 stars rating with over 3,072 reviews and is considered Amazon's choice for countertop microwave ovens by Panasonic. It is available for $168.00 and has a minimum countertop footprint with a compact design that devotes less space to electronics and more interior capacity, making it up to eight pounds lighter than conventional microwave ovens.

The microwave oven has a powerful 1100-watt high power for fast and even cooking, and is equipped with 7 preset auto cook menu items, a 13.4 inch turntable, delay start and timer, more/less control, child safety lock, and quick 30 seconds and popcorn button with 3 cooking levels. The microwave also has a keep warm feature that keeps food warm and delicious in the oven until they're ready to be served. The microwave popcorn function offers 3 power level options for perfect popping every time. However, it's important to note that the product is designed for use in the US and may require an adapter or converter for use in other countries.

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How To Choose The Best Stainless Steel Microwave | Ultimate Guide 2022

Budget

Desktop microwave ovens generally cost less than other types. Small models start at $50, while medium models typically run $100 to $300. OTR (over-the-range) models can cost as little as $200, but most cost $400 or more. Cabinet- or wall-mounted models start at $400, but some cost more than $1,000. Some countertop models are offered in kits, and offer a more affordable built-in style.

Space and location

Consider where microwaves will best suit you, and the space available. Countertop models eat up countertop real estate. For example, mid-size models tend to be more than 20 inches wide and up to 18 inches deep, while large microwaves can be one to two inches larger. You'll also need to consider height, but unless you have very low cabinets, countertop models should fit well. Dimensions can be found on the model page for each microwave.

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Type

Countertop models are the most commonly available. This type is placed on top of the microwave oven. This type is installed on top of the microwave. Built-in models are models that are intended to be built-in only, e.g. flush-mounted in a cabinet or wall. Microwave oven boxes fall into this category and are installed under worktops or wall ovens. In addition, some, but not all, worktop models can be converted into built-in models by means of a kit.

Turntable and tray

Rotates food to ensure even heating. Most microwave ovens have a turntable that rotates the food. Alternatively, some have a rectangular tray that slides from side to side (this may be more suitable for large casseroles and plates).

Quick openers

The 1 minute or 30 seconds key maintains the selected power level, and the preset cooking time can be extended by simply tapping it. It can also be used to quickly adjust the extension of a previously set time.

Rack

Speed up the cooking process by preparing several dishes at the same time. It can also improve convection cooking by allowing heat to escape from under the cooking vessel. However, some models won't even fit a coffee cup without removing the rack, so check when you buy.

Quick keys

This is useful for cooking popular foods like popcorn and frozen vegetables. Some models have shortcuts for oatmeal, pasta, stews and cereal.

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Convection cooking, grilling and browning

With these features, you have a second oven in your kitchen. But none of these models is as good as a conventional oven or grill.

Child lock

Designed for families with children, the lock function prevents children from opening the door and getting burns from hot food.

Over-the-range

Also called OTR, built-in or range hoods, these appliances are installed above the range hood, freeing up countertop space and providing vents that absorb and filter smoke and odors from cooking. They require professional installation as they are mounted in the cabinet or on the wall behind it and connected to the electrical wiring.

The most common sizes are just under 30 inches wide and about 16 inches deep. Most doors open to the left or right, but some top models open downward, like a standard oven. In any case, make sure that the hardware on the door of the adjacent cabinet does not block the microwave or make it difficult to open. Remember. Microwave ovens can be difficult to use, especially for children and wheelchair users. Also note that while they can vent, they don't remove air as much as a vented hood.

Power

Microwave ovens are classified according to the power they deliver. Power ratings range from 500 to 1500. In most cases, the larger the oven, the higher the power, the faster the oven cooks. However, other factors, such as the size and shape of the cavity, can also affect cooking time. A power of 800-1200 watts should be sufficient.

Size

Make sure you measure both your space and the microwave oven you're considering buying, including its height, so it will fit under the counter.

The volume of the microwave is expressed in cubic feet, but the quantity. Almost all microwaves have a turntable, and measuring the turntable is more important. The diameter of the turntable determines how large a plate will fit. If you have a favorite microwave-safe dish, measure it from end to end on the handle or take it to the shop to see if it can be turned on the turntable. There are several models that can stop a turntable. However, microwave ovens heat up more evenly when the rotating plate is spinning, so this function should only be used occasionally, for example to heat a dinner plate or to make lasagna.

Function

The sensor automatically heats and defrosts food for optimum cooking. Cooking time is calculated by measuring the moisture content generated during heating, so the food is not cooked for a predetermined time, but is tailored to the actual food.

Pre-programmed keys, such as cook popcorn, cook bacon or melt butter, are set for power levels and times. Most microwaves have a popcorn button, but other options vary from model to model. These programs always cook for the same amount of time, no matter what the food is. Sometimes you are given the option to choose the quantity or package size.

Quick keys of 1 minute or 30 seconds or numbers on the keys allow you to cook quickly without having to think about the exact time or power level.

Many ovens offer convection cooking or grilling. This feature increases costs considerably. However, they rarely work as well as full-size ovens or toasters.

FAQs Session

When to replace your microwave?

According to the National Association of Home Builders, the average lifespan is around nine years, but most microwaves come with a one-year warranty. Extended warranties are available, but are not recommended as they usually cost more than the cost of any repair. Extended warranties can cost as much as a new microwave.

Minor damage, such as a faulty door handle or cracked glass plate, can be easily replaced. Even these are not very expensive to repair. But before you call a repairman, think about the price - a new microwave can cost less than a visit, so check in advance. This is usually the case if the microwave is not a built-in microwave. If the magnetron or control panel is damaged, the microwave needs to be replaced.

What are the Important features?

Modern microwave ovens are designed not only for comfort but also for aesthetics. Some models have a touch screen, no handles on the door and a door open button. Many are also available in compact models that can accommodate large turntables. Useful features include a safety lock, a handy quick-start button and a self-cleaning function, although the latter is quite rare. Sensory programmers are also introduced, which automatically set times based on weight and food type.

Smart microwave ovens are a relatively new market. When connected to a smartphone, they can basically be controlled by voice from the smartphone or via Alexa or Google Assistant. Some smart microwaves can even scan barcodes and determine the best settings in advance!

How to bring your microwave back to life like a new oven?

Microwave ovens are prone to grease build-up, and grease that sticks to them can be difficult to remove. Here's how to make your microwave oven like new again. Before you try it, make sure you're lucky enough to own a microwave with a self-cleaning function. Using this program is similar to our suggested method, so instead of using this program, you can steam clean your microwave.

If you don't have this function, fill the microwave bowl with water and add the juice and zest of one lemon, cut in half. Turn the microwave on full power for three minutes or until you notice the water boil and the steam fills the bowl, then stop.

Then carefully remove the bowl and wipe the microwave clean with a damp microfiber cloth. The microwave should then be sparkling clean again.

For full step-by-step instructions and alternative methods, see our microwave cleaning article.

Final thoughts

A best stainless steel microwave is a relatively small financial investment as an appliance. It leaves a little more space, and most consumers are choosy and select the microwave that really best suits their needs, preferences and overall lifestyle. Take the time to browse and do some proper research, but don't overdo it. If you see something you want to fit into the space available, do it!

Jennifer Lawrence

Hi, I’m Jennifer Lawrence, Went to Calhoun High School (Georgia) my goal is to make the kitchen fun by providing a mathematical and logical component to our approach to cooking good food. I look not only at delicious recipes but also at kitchen tools and gadgets to give you the tips and tricks we hope you will find useful. Read More Here