Are you looking for the perfect countertop microwave for your kitchen? If so, then you've come to the right place. In this article, we'll be discussing some of the best stainless steel microwave countertop options out there and provide a master buying guide on which one is right for you. Let's get started!
Here are the best stainless steel microwaves countertop you can buy in 2025:
- Largest Capacity: TOSHIBA ML-EM45PIT(BS)
- Retro Style: Galanz GLCMKA07BER-07
- Best For Families With Kids: Panasonic NN-SN686S
- Smallest Capacity: Commercial Chef CHM660B
- Quiet: Panasonic NN-SD372S
- Energy-Efficient: Sharp R-21LCFS
| 6 Best Stainless Steel Microwaves Countertop | ||
|---|---|---|
Largest Capacity | TOSHIBA ML-EM45PIT(BS) | |
Retro Style | Galanz GLCMKA07BER-07 | |
Best For Families With Kids | Panasonic NN-SN686S | |
Smallest Capacity | Commercial Chef CHM660B | |
Quiet | Panasonic NN-SD372S | |
Energy-Efficient | Sharp R-21LCFS | |
Largest Capacity: TOSHIBA ML-EM45PIT(BS)
- Perfect for large families - a 1.6-cubic-foot capacity & a 13.6
- Wish the interior light was brighter
- Cumbersome
With a 1.6-cubic-foot capacity, the TOSHIBA ML-EM45PIT(BS) is a practical addition to your kitchen, especially if you are seeking a stainless steel microwave countertop with the largest capacity.
It can fit a 12" pizza, thanks to the 13.6" removable turntable.
This microwave defrosts and heats evenly, thanks to the inverter technology, which allows you to cook faster with a more satisfying experience.
It also features six smart sensor auto menus and a quick one-touch start function.
Besides, you can mute the buzzer of the microwave when in need.
| TOSHIBA ML-EM45PIT(BS) Specifications | |
|---|---|
Dimension | 19.2"D x 21.8"W x 13"H |
Capacity | 1.6 Cu Ft |
Number of Power Levels | 10 |
Highlight Features | a 1.6-cubic-foot capacity & a 13.6" removable turntable a quick start button the option to mute the buzzer |
Looking for the largest capacity stainless steel microwave countertop? Try the TOSHIBA ML-EM45PIT(BS)
Retro Style: Galanz GLCMKA07BER-07
- A great decoration item for any vintage kitchen – unique retro style design
- Convenient to check on the food status - an interior light
- Easy to use at night - a LED display
- It takes a bit longer to heat up
Our testers uniformly agree that the Galanz GLCMKA07BER-07 has the most beautiful retro style design, making it an excellent choice for those who want to bring a look of the old days to their kitchen.
Regardless, this stainless steel microwave countertop is very functional and high-quality.
It offers six variable power levels so that you can defrost or reheat any type of food with ease. You can also use this microwave to make popcorn for a movie night only with a silicone popcorn popper.
It also has an interior light which lets you check on the status of your food without having to open the door, and a LED display that clearly shows remaining cooking time.
| Galanz GLCMKA07BER-07 Specifications | |
|---|---|
Dimension | 13.8"D x 17.9"W x 10.3"H |
Capacity | 0.7 cu. Ft. |
Number of Power Levels | 6 |
Highlight Features | unique retro style design an interior light a LED display |
If you’re on the market for the best stainless steel microwave countertop with uniquely retro style design, then don’t skip on the Galanz GLCMKA07BER-07
Best For Families With Kids: Panasonic NN-SN686S
- Extra safety – child safety lock
- Speed up defrosting time - Turbo Defrost
- Meet any cooking needs - 14 preset menu items
- The display is dim in an unlighted room
- The machine doesn’t work quietly
For families with kids, the Panasonic NN-SN686S is the best bet because it features a child safety lock.
Besides, this stainless steel microwave countertop features the Inverter Technology with Turbo Defrost speeds up defrosting time and the compact design takes up less space on your countertop.
The 14 preset menu items make it easy to find the perfect setting for whatever you're cooking, while the genius sensor adjusts power and cooking times based on different foods.
The Keep Warm feature ensures that soups, gravies or desserts stay warm and fresh until you're ready to serve them.
| Panasonic NN-SN686S Specifications | |
|---|---|
Dimension | 18"D x 22.5"W x 14.5"H |
Capacity | 1.2 Cubic Feet |
Number of Power Levels | 14 |
Highlight Features | child safety lock Turbo Defrost 14 preset menu items |
The Panasonic NN-SN686S with an emphasis on the child safety lock is a great choice for families with kids.
Smallest Capacity: Commercial Chef CHM660B
- Ideal for individuals - 0.6-cubic-foot capacity
- Versatile - the speed and weight defrost features
- It takes a long time to heat up
There might be smaller-capacity stainless steel microwave countertops on the market, but the Commercial Chef CHM660B strikes the best balance between a high-performing model with easy control, and an ultra-small option for personal use.
It has 0.6 cubic feet of capacity, which is perfect for you to reheat your leftovers or prepare snacks/foods.
The front window makes it easy to see the inside, while the durable construction ensures for years of use regardless of daily abuse.
We appreciate the rotary dial control for easy operation, while the speed and weight defrost features make it versatile.
| Commercial Chef CHM660B Specifications | |
|---|---|
Dimension | 17.75"W x 12.5"D x 10.25"H |
Capacity | 0.6 cubic feet |
Number of Power Levels | 6 |
Highlight Features | 0.6 Cu. Ft. capacity the speed and weight defrost features |
In search of the smallest-capacity stainless steel microwave countertop? Take a look at the Commercial Chef CHM660B
Quiet: Panasonic NN-SD372S
- Quiet – advanced Inverter Technology & smooth-closing door
- Easy to cook - the smart cooking settings with genius sensor
- Keep your food warm and fresh for longer – the keep warm feature
- You can’t turn off chime completely
The Panasonic NN-SD372S distinguishes itself for its incredibly quiet operation.
Compared to other Inverter Technology microwaves, this model is 3x quieter, making it possible for you to watch TV while it's working. The door is also improved to open and close smoothly, which is a great plus.
We also appreciate the smart cooking settings with a genius sensor, which makes it easy to cook a variety of foods with the push of a button.
The keep warm feature ensures that your meals are hot and fresh until you're ready to serve them.
| Panasonic NN-SD372S Specifications | |
|---|---|
Dimension | 8"D x 12"W x 7"H |
Capacity | 0.8 Cu. Ft |
Number of Power Levels | 9 |
Highlight Features | advanced Inverter Technology & smooth-closing door the smart cooking settings with genius sensor the keep warm feature |
When you want the quietest stainless steel microwave countertop, you can’t go wrong with the Panasonic NN-SD372S
Energy-Efficient: Sharp R-21LCFS
- Energy-efficient - an auto-cancel timer
- Easy to operate - the dial timer with bright LED indicators
- Simple to use – an "on-the-spot" reference guide above the timer
- A bit pricey
The Sharp R-21LCFS is the best heavy duty commercial grade microwave oven with high energy efficiency that you can find on the market.
It boasts an auto-cancel timer that saves energy and increases the magnetron's life.
The 1.0 cu. ft. interior capacity that can accommodate a 13-1/2" platter, while the dial timer with bright LED indicators makes it easy to operate.
Additionally, a handy "on-the-spot" reference guide for heating times is located above the timer, making it easier than ever to heat up popular foods quickly and easily.
| Sharp R-21LCFS Specifications | |
|---|---|
Dimension | 16"D x 21"W x 12"H |
Capacity | 1 Cubic Feet |
Number of Power Levels | 1 |
Highlight Features | an auto-cancel timer the dial timer with bright LED indicators an "on-the-spot" reference guide above the timer |
The Sharp R-21LCFS is a great option for those looking for the best energy-efficient stainless steel microwave countertop.
How To Choose The Best Stainless Steel Microwave Countertop?
Size
When it comes to choosing a microwave, one of the most important considerations is the size or dimension of the unit.
The countertop microwaves come in a variety of sizes, so it's important to choose one that will fit well in your kitchen.
If you have a lot of counter space, then you have the luxury of choosing a larger microwave. But if you have limited counter space, then you'll need to choose a smaller unit.
Another consideration is the size of your family.
If you have a large family, then you'll need a larger microwave so that everyone can have their food heated up at the same time.
Capacity
When choosing a stainless steel microwave countertop, be sure to consider the capacity that best suits your needs.
The capacity of microwaves is measured in cubic feet.
The standard size for most home kitchens is 1.2 cubic feet. This size is sufficient for most families.
If you have a large family or entertain often, you may want to consider a larger model. Commercial microwaves can range in size from 3 cubic feet to over 10 cubic feet.
The capacity you need will depend on the amount of use you anticipate.
Other Factors
Number Of Power Levels
When it comes to the number of power levels of countertop microwaves, there's a basic rule of thumb: The higher the number of power levels, the more versatile the microwave will be.
More power levels also mean that the microwave can cook food faster and more evenly.
Wattage
The wattage of the microwave is also something to take into consideration. A higher wattage will allow the microwave to cook food faster, but it will also use more energy.
Energy Efficiency
Microwaves can vary greatly in terms of how much energy they use, so it's important to choose one that is energy efficient.
One way to tell how efficient a microwave is going to be is to look at the ENERGY STAR rating.
ENERGY STAR is a government-sponsored program that rates appliances on their energy efficiency. Appliances with an ENERGY STAR rating are 10-50% more efficient than standard models.
So, when you're looking for a new stainless steel microwave, make sure to check the ENERGY STAR rating to ensure you're getting a model that is as energy efficient as possible.
Which Brands Make The Best Stainless Steel Microwave Countertop?
TOSHIBA
With a reputation for quality and durability, Toshiba is the obvious choice for those looking for the best stainless steel microwave countertop.
Toshiba offers a variety of price points to fit any budget. Whether you're looking for an entry-level model or a top-of-the-line option, Toshiba has a stainless steel microwave countertop that will meet your needs.
Panasonic
For those who want the very best stainless steel microwave countertop, Panasonic is the clear choice. With a commitment to durability and performance, Panasonic microwaves are built to last. You can count on Panasonic for exceptional results, no matter whether you're reheating leftovers or cooking a meal from scratch.
Sharp
Sharp's stainless steel countertop microwaves are perfect for any kitchen. From compact models for small spaces to full-size models with all the bells and whistles, Sharp has a microwave to suit your needs. And with today's advancements in technology, Sharp's microwaves are more energy-efficient than ever before.
FAQs
Are stainless steel microwaves good?
Yes, stainless steel microwaves are good because they’re long-lasting, easy to clean, and durable.
What is the best wattage for a stainless steel countertop microwave?
The best wattage range for a stainless steel countertop microwave is 700-1000W.
How big should a stainless steel countertop microwave be?
A stainless steel countertop microwave should be 1.5-2.2 cubic feet.
How long should a stainless steel countertop microwave last?
A stainless steel countertop microwave should last around 7 years with regular use.
What should you never put in a stainless steel countertop microwave?
You should never put anything made of hard metals—such as copper, iron, or steel—in a stainless steel countertop microwave.
Conclusion
Stainless steel microwaves are a great choice for any kitchen. Not only do they look sleek and modern, but they also offer some unique advantages over other materials such as durability and easy maintenance.
We hope that our list of the best stainless steel microwave countertop options has helped you find the perfect product to suit your needs. Investing in a quality product will ensure you enjoy years of reliability and convenience.
