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4 Best Stainless Steel Microwaves 2025 in US

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An expert product reviewer with over a decade of experience reviewing the latest appliances and technology.
Updated

Main Features

  • Inverter technology for even cooking
  • Genius Sensor for automatic adjustments
  • Compact design with large capacity
  • 1200 watts of high power
  • Child lock for safety

Product Overview

The Panasonic NN-SN686S Compact Countertop Microwave is designed to bring efficiency and elegance to your kitchen. With its 1200 watts of high power, it delivers a seamless stream of cooking power for even cooking and delicious flavor.

The microwave's inverter technology ensures that your food is evenly cooked without overcooking the edges and surfaces, making it perfect for a variety of dishes. The stainless steel finish not only adds a modern touch to your kitchen but also ensures durability and easy maintenance.

The microwave comes with a range of features like the Genius Sensor, which automatically adjusts power and times based on different foods, ensuring perfect results every time. Its compact size makes it an excellent choice for small kitchens, apartments, or dorm rooms, yet it still offers a spacious 1.

2 cubic feet of cooking space. The intuitive control panel and the large, easy-to-read display make it user-friendly and efficient.In addition to its performance, the Panasonic NN-SN686S prioritizes safety with a child lock feature, making it a reliable option for families.

Whether you're reheating leftovers, making popcorn, or cooking a meal from scratch, this microwave delivers exceptional performance and convenience.

PROS
  • Consistent cooking results
  • Compact yet spacious
  • User-friendly control panel
  • Elegant stainless steel design
CONS
  • May be too small for large families
  • Higher price point

Product Specifications

  • Power 1200 watts
  • Capacity 1.2 cubic feet
  • Dimensions 15.8 x 20.7 x 12.2 inches
  • Weight 25.5 pounds
  • Material Stainless Steel

Main Features

  • Smart sensor technology
  • 1100 watts power output
  • Stylish stainless steel design
  • Large 1.2 cubic feet capacity
  • Pre-programmed settings for popular foods

Product Overview

The Toshiba EM131A5C-SS Smart Microwave Oven is designed to make your cooking experience as convenient and efficient as possible. With a power output of 1100 watts, it provides quick and even heating for all your favorite dishes.

The microwave's smart sensor technology takes the guesswork out of cooking by automatically adjusting the time and temperature for optimal results based on the type of food you're preparing.The appliance boasts a stylish stainless steel exterior that not only looks great but is also easy to clean.

The large 1.2 cubic feet capacity allows you to fit larger dishes, making it a versatile addition to any kitchen. The easy-to-read control panel and large digital display make operation simple and intuitive, even for those who are not tech-savvy.

In addition to its advanced features, the Toshiba EM131A5C-SS includes a range of pre-programmed settings for popular foods such as pizza, potatoes, and vegetables. The microwave also features a powerful defrost function that can be set by time or weight, ensuring your food is thawed evenly and quickly.

Safety is also a priority, with a child lock feature to prevent accidental operation by little hands.

PROS
  • Automatic adjustments with smart sensor
  • Easy to clean exterior
  • User-friendly controls
  • Large capacity for bigger dishes
CONS
  • Slightly larger footprint
  • Higher price point

Product Specifications

  • Power 1100 watts
  • Capacity 1.2 cubic feet
  • Dimensions 20.5 x 17.1 x 12.8 inches
  • Weight 34.6 pounds
  • Material Stainless Steel

Main Features

  • 700-watt power output
  • One-touch presets
  • Stainless steel finish
  • Compact design
  • LED display and control panel

Product Overview

The BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven is an excellent choice for those who need a reliable and efficient microwave with a compact footprint. With its 700-watt power output, it delivers quick and consistent heating for a variety of foods.

The microwave features a digital control panel with one-touch presets for popular food items, making it user-friendly and convenient.The stainless steel finish gives the microwave a modern and elegant appearance that will fit well in any kitchen decor.

Despite its compact size, the microwave offers a 0.7 cubic feet capacity, making it suitable for smaller households or office kitchens. The LED display is bright and easy to read, and the control panel is intuitive, even for those who are not familiar with digital appliances.

In terms of functionality, the BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 includes a range of features designed to make your life easier. The microwave has a large interior light that allows you to monitor your food while it's cooking.

It also comes with a removable turntable for easy cleaning. Safety features such as a child lock ensure that the microwave is safe to use in homes with children.

PROS
  • Compact and space-saving
  • Easy to use
  • Modern and stylish design
  • Affordable price
CONS
  • Lower power output
  • Smaller capacity

Product Specifications

  • Power 700 watts
  • Capacity 0.7 cubic feet
  • Dimensions 17.3 x 13.0 x 10.2 inches
  • Weight 22.5 pounds
  • Material Stainless Steel

Main Features

  • 1200-watt power output
  • Spacious 2.0 cubic feet capacity
  • Sleek stainless steel design
  • Intuitive control panel
  • Sensor cooking and defrost functions

Product Overview

The GE JES2051SNSS Family-Sized Microwave is designed to handle the cooking needs of large households. With its powerful 1200-watt output, it ensures your food is heated quickly and evenly, making it ideal for busy families.

The spacious 2.0 cubic feet capacity allows you to fit large dishes, making meal preparation more convenient.The microwave features a sleek stainless steel exterior that adds a touch of elegance to any kitchen.

The intuitive control panel includes a variety of preset cooking options, so you can quickly and easily cook your favorite meals. The large, easy-to-read display makes it simple to monitor your cooking progress.

In addition to its impressive performance, the GE JES2051SNSS includes several features designed for convenience and safety. The sensor cooking function automatically adjusts the time and power based on the food being cooked, ensuring perfect results every time.

The microwave also includes a defrost function that can be set by time or weight, making it easy to thaw frozen foods quickly and evenly. Safety features such as a child lock ensure that this appliance is safe to use in homes with children.

PROS
  • Large capacity for families
  • Powerful and efficient
  • Easy to use
  • Modern and stylish design
CONS
  • Larger footprint
  • Higher price point

Product Specifications

  • Power 1200 watts
  • Capacity 2.0 cubic feet
  • Dimensions 19.4 x 23.9 x 13.8 inches
  • Weight 56.0 pounds
  • Material Stainless Steel

Understand Your Needs

Before diving into the specifics of different models, it’s crucial to clarify what you’re looking for in a microwave. Consider your cooking habits, the size of your kitchen, and the features that are most important to you. Are you looking for something primarily for reheating and defrosting, or do you need a more advanced unit that can handle a variety of cooking tasks?

Types of Microwaves

Microwaves come in a few different types, each with its own set of advantages:

  1. Countertop Microwaves: These are the most common and offer flexibility in placement. They are easy to install and move but do take up counter space.

  2. Over-the-Range Microwaves: These models are mounted above your stove and often include a built-in exhaust fan and lighting. They save counter space and can be quite powerful.

  3. Built-In Microwaves: These are designed to fit into cabinetry or a wall for a seamless look. They can be more expensive and may require professional installation.

  4. Microwave Drawers: Installed below the countertop, these pull out like a drawer and can be more accessible, especially in a kitchen island or below a counter.

Key Features to Consider

  1. Power and Wattage: The power of a microwave is measured in watts. Generally, the higher the wattage, the faster and more evenly it will cook food. For most users, a microwave with 900-1200 watts is sufficient.

  2. Capacity and Size: Microwaves come in various sizes, usually measured in cubic feet. Smaller microwaves (0.5 – 0.8 cubic feet) are suitable for limited counter space and light usage, while larger ones (1.2 – 2.2 cubic feet) can accommodate larger dishes and more frequent use.

  3. Cooking Functions: Many modern microwaves offer a range of cooking functions beyond the basic reheat and defrost settings. Look for features like sensor cooking, which adjusts cooking time and power level automatically, convection cooking for baking and roasting, and preset cooking programs for specific foods.

  4. Control Panel and Ease of Use: The control panel should be intuitive and easy to use. Touchpad controls are common, but some people prefer dial controls. Look for a clear display and consider if you need features like a child lock or quick start buttons.

  5. Interior and Cleaning: Stainless steel interiors are easier to clean and more durable. Removable turntables and racks can also make cleaning more convenient.

Brand Reputation and Reviews

Researching brands and reading customer reviews can provide valuable insights into the reliability and performance of different microwaves. Brands like Panasonic, LG, Samsung, and GE are well-regarded for their quality and innovation. Look for consistent positive feedback and consider any recurring issues mentioned in reviews.

Aesthetic and Design

Since a microwave is a prominent kitchen appliance, its design can impact the overall look of your kitchen. Stainless steel microwaves often complement modern and contemporary kitchen designs. Pay attention to the finish and how it matches with your other appliances.

Budget Considerations

Microwaves vary widely in price, from basic models under $100 to high-end units that can cost several hundred dollars. Determine your budget beforehand and balance the features and quality you need with what you’re willing to spend. Sometimes, paying a bit more can be worthwhile for a model with better reliability and more features.

Warranty and Customer Support

A good warranty can provide peace of mind. Check the warranty terms for the microwave you’re considering, including what it covers and the duration. Also, consider the reputation of the brand’s customer support.

Final Steps

Once you’ve narrowed down your options, visit a few stores to see the microwaves in person if possible. This can give you a better sense of their size, build quality, and how easy they are to operate. Finally, compare prices across different retailers, both online and in-store, to ensure you’re getting the best deal.

By taking the time to assess your needs, research your options, and consider all the important features, you’ll be well-equipped to find the best stainless steel microwave for your kitchen.