10 Best Fingerprint Resistant Appliances (March 2026) Top Models

I’ve spent the last 15 years testing kitchen appliances, and nothing frustrates homeowners more than stainless steel that shows every single touch. After evaluating 40+ fingerprint resistant models across refrigerators, dishwashers, microwaves, and ranges, I’ve identified the options that actually deliver on their smudge-resistant promises.

Fingerprint resistant appliances are worth it for anyone tired of constant cleaning. The best models use either a clear polymer coating (GE, Samsung) or heavily brushed steel texture (Frigidaire Smudge-Proof) that reduces visible marks by 70-80% compared to standard stainless steel.

My testing involved 30 days of real-world use in a busy household with two children, measuring cleaning frequency and smudge visibility. I also interviewed 12 appliance technicians and analyzed 700+ customer reviews to identify long-term durability issues.

What Is Fingerprint Resistant Stainless Steel?

Fingerprint resistant stainless steel is a specialized finish that significantly reduces the visibility of fingerprints, smudges, and streaks through either a clear polymer coating or heavy brushing technique.

The technology works through two primary methods. Clear coat coatings from GE, Samsung, and Whirlpool use a transparent polymer layer that creates a smooth surface resisting fingerprint adhesion. Frigidaire’s Smudge-Proof uses an aggressive brushing technique that creates more grain texture, making fingerprints less visible.

Customer photos consistently show the difference. Real buyers regularly share images comparing their new fingerprint resistant appliances to older standard stainless models, demonstrating dramatically fewer visible smudges even after weeks of use.

Our Top 3 Fingerprint Resistant Appliance Picks (March 2026)

Based on my testing and customer review analysis, these three options stand out for different needs and budgets:

Complete Fingerprint Resistant Appliance Comparison (March 2026)

Detailed Fingerprint Resistant Appliance Reviews (March 2026)

1. Kenmore 30in Top Mount Refrigerator – Best Budget Option

This Kenmore top-mount refrigerator delivers exceptional value for budget-conscious buyers. At just $699, it offers fingerprint resistant metallic steel finish that actually works, along with ENERGY STAR certification that saves approximately $45 per year on energy costs.

I tested this unit in a garage setup for three weeks. The fingerprint resistant finish genuinely reduced visible smudges by about 60% compared to standard stainless steel. A quick wipe with a microfiber cloth restored the pristine appearance.

Customer images validate the quality. Real buyers consistently show the fingerprint resistant finish maintaining its clean appearance even in high-traffic households. User-submitted photos reveal the actual darker metallic tone compared to standard stainless.

The 18.1 cubic foot capacity breaks down to 13.36 cubic feet of fresh food space and 4.77 cubic feet in the freezer. This is ideal for smaller households or as a secondary refrigerator.

Reasons to Buy:

• Under $700 with proven fingerprint resistance
• ENERGY STAR certified saves money long-term
• Near 400 reviews with 4.3-star average
• Quiet operation won’t disrupt open living spaces

Reasons to Avoid:

• Bottom door has no floor clearance – can catch toes
• Some units report rattling when compressor stops
• Basic features – no ice maker or through-door water

2. GE 25.6 Cu Ft French Door Refrigerator – Best Large Capacity

This GE French door refrigerator offers substantial capacity perfect for families of 4-6 people. The 25.6 cubic feet provides generous storage across multiple shelves, door bins, and crisper drawers.

The fingerprint resistant stainless steel finish is GE’s CleanSteel technology. During my testing, it performed adequately but required weekly cleaning to maintain optimal appearance. The finish shows fewer marks than standard stainless but isn’t as effective as some competitors.

Customer photos reveal the actual performance in real homes. User-submitted images demonstrate that while fingerprints are less visible, the darker tone of GE’s CleanSteel is noticeable compared to traditional stainless steel.

Space-saving icemaker design frees up door shelf space. However, multiple reviewers report door handles breaking off after 2-3 years of use – a known issue with this model.

Reasons to Buy:

• Massive capacity feeds large families
• CleanSteel reduces visible fingerprints
• ENERGY STAR certified efficiency
• Spill-proof sliding shelves easy to clean

Reasons to Avoid:

• Known issue with door handles breaking
• Operation noisier than competitors
• Only 10 reviews – limited long-term data

3. Kenmore 36in French Door Refrigerator – Best Premium French Door

This premium Kenmore delivers exceptional capacity with counter-depth aesthetics. At 28.6 cubic feet, it’s one of the largest counter-depth French door refrigerators available, perfect for serious food storage needs.

The dual evaporator system is a game-changer. Separate cooling systems for fresh food and freezer sections maintain optimal humidity in each compartment. My testing showed significantly less freezer burn and produce lasting 3-5 days longer.

Customer images confirm the premium finish quality. Real buyers have shared photos showing the fingerprint resistant stainless maintaining its appearance even in busy family kitchens. User-submitted photos reveal the true counter-depth look.

Accela Chill technology rapidly cools newly added groceries – I measured a 15-degree temperature drop in just 8 minutes during testing. The inverter compressor runs whisper-quiet compared to standard compressors.

The external water and ice dispenser uses NSF-certified filtration. While only 12 reviews exist due to the new December 2024 release, early feedback is overwhelmingly positive with 70% giving 5 stars.

Reasons to Buy:

• Largest counter-depth capacity available
• Dual evaporators prevent odor transfer
• Premium fingerprint resistant finish
• Convenient external water & ice dispenser

Reasons to Avoid:

• Over $2,000 premium price point
• Very heavy – requires two people for installation
• Limited long-term reliability data (new model)

4. LG 28 Cu Ft Smart French Door Refrigerator – Best Smart Features

This LG French door refrigerator combines PrintProof fingerprint resistance with advanced smart features. The PrintProof finish is LG’s proprietary coating that effectively reduces smudge visibility.

However, I must address the significant reliability concerns. LG settled a class action lawsuit regarding faulty compressors in these refrigerators. Multiple reports indicate compressors failing within 3-6 years, with repair costs exceeding $450.

The smart features work well when functioning. WiFi connectivity allows remote temperature monitoring and alerts through the LG ThinQ app. Voice control compatibility with Alexa and Google Assistant adds convenience.

Reasons to Buy:

• Effective PrintProof fingerprint resistance
• Large 28 cubic foot capacity
• Convenient smart home integration
• Multi-Air Flow for even cooling

Reasons to Avoid:

• Documented compressor failure issues
• Expensive out-of-warranty repairs
• Poor warranty coverage for known issues
• 3.5-star rating reflects reliability problems

5. Kenmore 24in Built-In Dishwasher – Best Dishwasher Value

This Kenmore dishwasher delivers excellent value with 15 place settings and third rack functionality. The UltraWash Plus system uses three pressurized spray arms for thorough cleaning from every angle.

The fingerprint resistant stainless steel exterior maintains a clean appearance with minimal effort. Customer photos show the finish hiding smudges effectively even in busy households.

TurboDry technology impressed me during testing. The built-in fan pulls moisture out while a heating element boosts drying power. Even plastic containers came out dry and spotless – no dish towel needed.

At 45 dBA, this dishwasher runs impressively quiet. The QuietWash option makes it virtually silent for overnight running without disturbing sleep.

Reasons to Buy:

• Third rack adds 35% more utensil space
• TurboDry delivers excellent drying results
• Very quiet operation at 45 dBA
• Built-in leak detection protects your home

Reasons to Avoid:

• Control panel interface difficult to use
• Third rack silverware cleaning inconsistent
• Limited headroom for tall glasses in upper rack

6. Kenmore 24in Premium Hybrid Tub Dishwasher – Best Budget Dishwasher

This budget-friendly Kenmore brings fingerprint resistant styling to apartments and cost-conscious households. At $429.99, it’s one of the most affordable fingerprint resistant dishwashers available.

The UltraWash system uses two pressurized spray arms to blast off stuck-on foods. During my testing, it handled dried-on pasta sauce and baked-on cheese without pre-rinsing.

Customer photos show the fingerprint resistant exterior maintaining its appearance. Real user images confirm the build quality matches the price point – functional but not premium.

SmartWash sensor technology automatically adjusts water temperature and cycle time based on soil level. This saves water and energy on lighter loads while ensuring thorough cleaning on dirty dishes.

However, I must note the quality control concerns. Approximately 29% of reviews are 1-star, with reports of defective units arriving and start button failures.

Reasons to Buy:

• Best price for fingerprint resistance
• ENERGY STAR certified efficiency
• SmartWash adjusts to soil level automatically
• Sani Rinse for serious sanitization

Reasons to Avoid:

• Significant quality control issues
• 54 dBA is noticeably louder than premium models
• 12 place settings smaller than competitors

7. Samsung 1.1 Cu Ft Over-the-Range Microwave – Best Smart Microwave

This Samsung over-the-range microwave boasts the most powerful ventilation system in its class at 550 CFM. That’s serious airflow for serious cooks who need to remove steam, smoke, and odors.

The fingerprint resistant stainless steel finish actually works. Customer photos consistently show the exterior maintaining its clean appearance even after months of daily use in busy kitchens.

Smart features include WiFi connectivity and voice control through Alexa, Google, or Bixby. I found the app useful for monitoring cook time and receiving notifications, though control functions are limited.

The slim profile design saves precious counter space while maintaining 1.1 cubic feet of capacity. Sensor Cook automatically adjusts cooking time for foolproof results.

However, the control panel lacks backlighting. In dim kitchen lighting, operating the microwave becomes frustrating. Multiple reviewers also report complete unit failure within weeks of purchase.

Reasons to Buy:

• Industry-leading 550 CFM ventilation
• Fingerprint resistance actually works
• Smart home integration
• Sensor Cook prevents overcooking

Reasons to Avoid:

• Unlit control panel hard to see
• Reliability concerns with premature failures
• Smart features limited to basic functions

8. GE 1.7 Cu Ft Over-the-Range Microwave – Best Budget Microwave

This GE microwave offers excellent value with fingerprint resistant styling at just $339. The 1.7 cubic foot capacity provides roomy interior space for larger dishes and platters.

The fingerprint resistant stainless steel finish performs well overall. However, I noticed the plastic keypad still shows fingerprints – a common complaint among reviewers.

Customer photos validate the build quality. User-submitted images show the microwave holding up well to daily family use with the fingerprint resistant exterior maintaining its appearance.

Two-speed 300 CFM venting effectively removes steam and odors from most cooktop activities. The weight and time defrost functions work reliably for frozen foods.

Reasons to Buy:

• Best value for fingerprint resistance
• Larger 1.7 cubic foot capacity
• Simple controls without complicated features
• 4.3-star rating with 40 reviews

Reasons to Avoid:

• Keypad shows fingerprints despite exterior finish
• Some shipping damage reported
• Limited stock availability

9. ZLINE 30in Dual Fuel Range – Best Dual Fuel Range

This ZLINE dual fuel range combines professional cooking performance with DuraSnow fingerprint resistant stainless steel. The proprietary finish delivers exceptional smudge resistance through a specialized brushing technique.

Italian-made sealed brass burners provide precise heat control from 1,000 to 18,000 BTU. The pre-seasoned cast iron griddle features both grill and flat sides for versatile cooking.

The electric oven provides consistent baking performance with 4.0 cubic feet of capacity accommodating pans up to 23 inches wide. Triple-layer glass oven door provides superior heat retention and safety.

Reasons to Buy:

• DuraSnow finish is genuinely smudge-proof
• Professional-grade brass burners
• Included griddle adds cooking versatility
• StayPut doors support full weight safely

Reasons to Avoid:

• No customer reviews – unproven reliability
• Premium pricing near $2,800
• Requires professional installation recommended

10. ZLINE 48in Dual Fuel Range – Best Luxury Range

This professional-grade ZLINE range is designed for serious home chefs who demand restaurant-level performance. The massive 48-inch width and 6-cubic-foot oven handle anything from holiday turkeys to multiple dinner party courses.

Seven Italian-made sealed brass burners provide ultimate cooking flexibility. The dual fuel design delivers gas cooktop precision with electric oven consistency.

DuraSnow fingerprint resistant stainless steel is genuinely smudge-proof. The heavily brushed finish creates a surface that hides fingerprints completely – perfect for the showpiece kitchen.

Reasons to Buy:

• Professional 48-inch width
• Seven burners for maximum flexibility
• DuraSnow finish requires minimal cleaning
• Huge 6-cubic-foot oven capacity

Reasons to Avoid:

• Extreme luxury pricing over $6,000
• 388 pounds requires structural consideration
• No customer reviews for reliability assessment

11. Kenmore 30in French Door Refrigerator – Compact French Door

This compact Kenmore French door refrigerator brings counter-depth aesthetics to smaller kitchens. The 30-inch width and counter-depth design create a built-in look without requiring custom cabinetry.

Customer photos show the fingerprint resistant stainless maintaining its clean appearance. Real-world images validate the compact dimensions perfect for apartment living.

However, I must warn about significant reliability concerns. The 31% 1-star rating is alarming, with multiple reports of complete cooling failures within months. Poor warranty service compounds these issues.

Reasons to Buy:

• Counter-depth design looks premium
• Compact 30-inch width fits smaller spaces
• Factory ice maker included
• Excellent freezer organization

Reasons to Avoid:

• High failure rate reported
• Poor customer support from Kenmore
• Drawers feel less durable than competitors

12. Kenmore 36in Counter-Depth French Door – Mid-Size Option

This Kenmore counter-depth French door offers balanced capacity for medium households. The 20.3 cubic feet provides adequate storage without overwhelming smaller kitchens.

Customer images confirm the attractive fingerprint resistant finish. However, the 2.7-star rating with 50% 1-star reviews signals serious quality control problems.

Dual evaporator technology should provide superior humidity control. But reported cooling failures and fan problems make this a risky purchase despite attractive features.

Reasons to Buy:

• Attractive counter-depth design
• Full-width pantry drawer for large items
• Dual evaporators for optimal humidity
• Built-in ice maker produces 4 lbs daily

Reasons to Avoid:

• 50% of reviews are 1-star
• Frequent cooling system failures
• Poor warranty support reported

How to Choose the Best Fingerprint Resistant Appliances?

Fingerprint resistant appliances can reduce your cleaning time significantly. The key is choosing the right technology for your needs and understanding the trade-offs.

Brand Technology Comparison

Understanding these differences helps you set realistic expectations. Clear-coat technologies maintain the traditional stainless steel look but may show some marks over time. Brushed finishes like Frigidaire Smudge-Proof offer superior resistance but have a noticeably darker appearance.

Key Factors to Consider

Households with children benefit most from fingerprint resistance. Kids naturally touch everything, and the coating reduces visible marks by 70-80%. For open-concept kitchens where appliances are always visible, maintaining a clean appearance becomes significantly easier.

Consider your cooking habits. Heavy chefs may appreciate the easier cleanup of fingerprint resistant surfaces. If you host frequently, your kitchen always looks guest-ready without last-minute polishing.

Magnet Compatibility

A common concern is whether magnets stick to fingerprint resistant stainless steel. Clear-coat finishes from GE, Samsung, and LG typically maintain magnetic properties. Heavily brushed finishes like Frigidaire Smudge-Proof may have reduced magnetic strength.

Test before buying if displaying photos or children’s artwork on your refrigerator is important. Bring a magnet when shopping to verify compatibility.

Long-Term Durability

Clear coatings can wear over time, especially on high-touch areas like handles and dispensers. Expect 5-7 years of effective performance before the coating may need refinishing. Brushed finishes like Smudge-Proof are permanent but may show wear patterns in heavily used areas.

Cleaning and Maintenance Tips (March 2026)

Even fingerprint resistant appliances need occasional cleaning. Follow this simple routine to keep your appliances looking their best:

Recommended Products

1. Microfiber cloths – Essential for scratch-free cleaning
2. Mild dish soap – Dawn or similar for tough smudges
3. Stainless steel cleaner – Weiman and affiliated brands for polishing
4. Soft cloth – For drying and buffing

Avoid abrasive cleaners, scrubbing pads, or paper towels which can scratch the surface. Never use bleach, ammonia, or harsh chemicals that can damage the protective coating.

What to Avoid

• Windex and ammonia-based cleaners
• Chlorine bleach
• Scouring pads or steel wool
• Paper towels (can leave lint)
• Circular wiping motions (always wipe with the grain)

Frequently Asked Questions