For those seeking a quieter kitchen, a microwave that minimizes noise is a welcome addition. Whether it's the soft close door, a mute function, or simply a well-dampened mechanism, a quiet countertop microwave can significantly reduce household noise pollution. These models offer a blend of performance and peace, catering to noise-sensitive individuals and families.
Best Quiet Countertop Microwaves
These quiet countertop microwaves offer a blend of features and performance, all while keeping noise levels to a minimum. Here's a closer look at some of the top contenders, based on user feedback and specifications:
Breville Compact Wave Soft Close
- With a 25L compact footprint and an easy shortcuts and foods menu, the Breville Compact Wave Soft Close Microwave is big on convenience; Designed to precisely reheat, defrost and cook; Countertop microwave oven engineered with 80% quieter soft close door
- COMPACT MICROWAVE: This countertop small microwave has a compact footprint with 25L capacity and all the space you need to cook, defrost and reheat delicious meals; Kitchen appliance works well in homes with limited space for cooking
- COOKING SHORTCUTS AND FOOD MENU: One touch auto buttons including Reheat, Defrost, Popcorn & Beverage providing access to your favorite settings; Food Menu functions such as reheat pizza, defrost vegetables or cook potatoes to create quick and easy snacks
- QUIET MICROWAVE WITH SOFT CLOSE DOOR: Countertop microwave has 80% quieter soft close door and is 50% quieter in operation; Clever touches like Child Lock, Breville Sound Suite and Mute button mean less beeps and clangs, more pops and crunches
- DEFROST & REHEAT FUNCTIONS: Breville microwaves deliver on versatility; Defrost function gently defrosts food without overheating and drying out edges; Reheat function uses lower power levels to carefully reheat meals without drying or overcooking
- Specified Noise Level: N/A
The Breville Compact Wave Soft Close Microwave is designed with quiet operation in mind, boasting an 80% quieter soft close door and a 50% reduction in overall operational noise compared to standard microwaves. This model incorporates design features such as a soft close door mechanism and a mute button to minimize noise. Beyond its quiet operation, it offers convenient cooking shortcuts, defrost and reheat functions, and a child lock for added safety. While its build quality has received mixed reviews regarding long-term durability, its focus on quiet operation and user-friendly design make it a strong contender for noise-conscious buyers.
Toshiba ML-EM62P(SS) Large Countertop Microwave
- 【Large Capacity】2.2 Cu. Ft. capacity countertop microwave with 1200W power is perfect for large families. It can easily accommodate a 16-inch pizza and a whole chicken.
- 【Intuitive Humidity Sensor】The built-in humidity sensor with 6 Automatic Preset Menus gives your food an even heating result and seals the moisture inside for optimal results.
- 【6 Auto Menus】Equipped with 6 menus that fits your most daily needs including: bacon, frozen roll/muffin-reheat, beverage, chicken pieces and oatmeal.
- 【Auto-Defrost Function】 The Auto-Defrost Function defrosts meat, poultry and fish with different programs, simulating a natural defrost environment and achieving optimal defrosting results.
- 【Easy to Use】Kitchen essential with One pound/ auto defrost, energy-saving eco mode and sound on/off function, speedy cooking, memory function, multi-stage cooking, child safety lock, indoor light, clock and kitchen time.
- Specified Noise Level: N/A
Many users report this Toshiba model runs very quietly, with some describing it as almost completely silent in operation, especially when the mute function is enabled. This large-capacity microwave doesn't have special dampening features, but many users report that it runs quietly. Other notable features include a humidity sensor for optimal heating, auto-defrost, and an eco mode for energy saving. While some have raised concerns about its long-term durability, the combination of quiet operation, ample capacity, and smart features makes it a strong value proposition.
Toshiba ML4-EM09PA(BS) Small Countertop Microwave Oven
- Two-Step Child Lock: This mandatory safety feature for microwaves helps prevent unintended use by younger family members, plesase open the machine according to the steps shown in the figure.
- 6 Preset Menus: Compact microwave oven features 6 preset menu options for effortless cooking of dinner, snacks, beverages, and much more.
- 11 Unique Power Levels: Tailor your cooking power levels for greater culinary flexibility, making it an essential kitchen tool. Perfect for everything from deodorization to boiling liquids.
- Easy Defrost & Mute Mode & Memory Function : Defrost your frozen food by weight or by time. Allows you to silence the beeping sound that signals the end of cooking. Save your dish settings in the memory and easily retrieve them later.
- Microwave output power 900 watts, input power 1300 watts. External dimensions 18.7x 14.7x 10.7 inches (WxDxH); internal dimensions 14.6x13.1x 8.4 inches (WxDxH); includes 10.6-inch glass turntable.
- Specified Noise Level: N/A
The Toshiba ML4-EM09PA(BS) offers mixed results in noise performance, with some users finding it surprisingly quiet and appreciating the mute function, while others report occasional loudness and rattling. This compact microwave has a small footprint, multiple power levels, and preset menus. While its small size is convenient, the mixed reports on noise levels and some concerns about design quality suggest that it may not be the quietest option in this guide. Potential buyers should weigh its affordability and features against the possibility of encountering operational noise.
Toshiba EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Oven
- 【Pre-programmed sensor menu】 for optimum heating of popular foods like pizza, potatoes, veggies, and more; Power Wattage (Microwave): 1000W; Rated Voltage: 120V - 60Hz.Rated Output Power : 100W (Small Microwave)
- 【Stylish Appearance with Large Interior, fitting a 12 inch Pizza】Black, exterior, W 23.3 in x D 18.4 in x H 15 in; large 1. 2 cubic feet capacity, Turntable Diameter 12.4 inch, interior: W20.5 X D17.2 X H12.8
- 【Practical Control Panel】Large digital display, easy-to-read control panel. The keypad was covered by a protective film during the shipment. Please peel it off before your first use.
- 【Mute Function】If you wish to mute the buzzer of the mini microwave oven, please long press the button "8" for 3-5 seconds. The buzzer is automatically switched off after a long beep.
- Warranty 1 year, please keep the packaging for contacting Toshiba after service and product returns.
- Specified Noise Level: N/A
User experiences with the Toshiba EM131A5C-BS's noise levels are varied, with some praising its quiet operation and mute function, while others report it being noisy, sometimes with a squeaky turntable. It boasts a large interior, a humidity sensor, and multiple auto menus. Given the split feedback on noise, buyers should consider whether its other features, such as its stylish appearance and pre-programmed sensor menu, outweigh the potential for operational noise issues.
How to Choose a Quiet Countertop Microwave
Finding a microwave that won't disturb your household peace is increasingly important in open-concept homes and apartments. A quiet microwave can make a significant difference in your daily kitchen experience.
What Makes a Microwave Noisy?
Several components contribute to microwave noise levels. The magnetron (which generates the microwaves) often produces a humming sound during operation.
The cooling fan can create a persistent whirring noise that varies between models.
The turntable motor may produce mechanical sounds as it rotates your food.
Door mechanisms on many microwaves create loud closing sounds that can be jarring, especially during late-night heating.
Poorly insulated cabinets can amplify operational sounds, making even average components seem louder than they should be.
Understanding Microwave Noise Levels
The average countertop microwave produces between 55-65 decibels (dB) during operation. For context, normal conversation occurs at around 60 dB.
Quieter models typically operate at or below 50 dB, with some premium options reaching as low as 45 dB during operation.
Sound perception is subjective—what feels loud to one person might be tolerable to another. However, consistent buzzing or high-pitched noises tend to be more irritating than lower-pitched operational sounds.
Many manufacturers don't list specific decibel ratings, making comparison shopping challenging. User reviews often provide the best real-world noise assessments.
Key Features of Quiet Microwaves
Soft-Close Doors
Soft-close door mechanisms eliminate the jarring "slam" of traditional microwave doors. This feature alone can reduce overall noise disruption by up to 80%.
Look for doors advertised as "soft-close," "quiet-close," or "dampened" for the most peaceful operation.
Mute Functions
Many newer microwaves include the ability to silence operational beeps and alerts. This feature is especially valuable for households with light sleepers or for late-night heating.
The mute function won't affect operational noise but eliminates the often loud end-of-cycle alerts that can be disruptive.
Sound Insulation
Quality microwaves incorporate additional insulation materials that dampen operational sounds from the magnetron and fan.
These models typically feel more substantial and solid when you interact with them, indicating better build quality and potentially better sound insulation.
Variable Fan Speeds
Advanced models adjust cooling fan speeds based on actual temperature needs rather than running at full speed constantly.
This smart feature reduces unnecessary noise during lighter heating tasks while maintaining proper cooling during heavy use.
How to Choose the Right Quiet Microwave
Consider Your Sensitivity Level
If you're extremely sensitive to noise, prioritize models specifically marketed for quiet operation with features like soft-close doors and mute functions.
For moderate sensitivity, focus on well-built models from reputable manufacturers, as these typically include better sound insulation.
Balance Power and Noise
Higher wattage microwaves (typically 1000W+) heat food faster but may generate more operational noise from more powerful components.
Mid-range options (800-900W) often strike a good balance between heating performance and noise levels.
Size and Placement Considerations
Larger microwaves typically have more space for sound insulation and may operate more quietly as a result.
However, size should match your counter space and typical food portions to avoid buying more microwave than you need.
Installation and Placement Tips to Minimize Noise
Surface Matters
Place your microwave on a solid, stable surface to minimize vibration transfer. Hollow cabinets can amplify operational sounds.
Consider using a thin rubber mat beneath the microwave to absorb vibrations and further reduce noise.
Clearance Requirements
Allow adequate ventilation space around the microwave (typically 3 inches on sides and top) to prevent the fan from working harder than necessary.
Proper ventilation not only reduces noise but extends the life of your appliance.
Strategic Placement
Position your microwave away from sleeping areas when possible. Even the quietest models produce some sound.
In open floor plans, consider using cabinetry or other kitchen features to create natural sound barriers between living spaces and the microwave.
Price Considerations for Quiet Microwaves
Entry-Level Options ($80-120)
Basic models rarely include specific noise-reduction features but may offer mute functions for beeps and alerts.
At this price range, focus on well-reviewed models known for solid build quality rather than expecting specialized quiet operation.
Mid-Range Choices ($120-180)
These microwaves often include mute functions and potentially better insulation, though specific noise-reduction claims are less common.
Look for models with solid doors and cabinets, which typically indicate better overall construction and potentially quieter operation.
Premium Quiet Models ($180-300)
High-end microwaves frequently feature soft-close doors, enhanced insulation, and advanced mute options specifically designed for noise reduction.
The investment typically brings additional benefits beyond quiet operation, including more precise cooking controls and higher-quality components.
Maintaining Your Microwave for Quieter Operation
Regular cleaning prevents food debris from interfering with turntable movement, which can create additional noise.
Check for loose parts or damaged components that might cause rattling during operation.
Keep the door hinges clean and occasionally lubricated according to manufacturer recommendations to maintain smooth, quiet opening and closing.
Final Thoughts on Choosing a Quiet Microwave
Prioritize models with soft-close doors and mute functions if noise reduction is your primary concern.
Remember that a slightly more expensive model with better build quality will typically provide quieter operation throughout its lifespan.
Consider the microwave's location in your home when determining how important noise reduction features are to your purchase decision.
With these considerations in mind, you can find a countertop microwave that meets your cooking needs without disrupting your home's peaceful environment.