Microwave ovens have become an indispensable appliance in modern kitchens, and it’s no wonder why. They offer a convenient way to cook, reheat, and defrost food quickly and efficiently.
However, when it comes to operating a microwave oven, one aspect that often goes overlooked is the noise level. If you’re someone who is easily disturbed by sound, or if you have an open kitchen layout, the noise generated by a microwave oven can be quite irksome.
In this article, we delve into the world of quiet microwave ovens, and provide you with a comprehensive guide to help you find the perfect appliance for your kitchen. From understanding the sources of noise in a microwave oven to the top brands offering the quietest models, this guide has everything you need to know.
Quietest Microwave Ovens 2024
| Microwave | Reviews Mentioning "Quiet" | Reviews Mentioning "Silent" | Total | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS |  | 813 | 62 | 875 | Buy on Amazon |
| TOSHIBA EM925A5A-BS |  | 219 | 31 | 250 | Buy on Amazon |
| TOSHIBA EM925A5A-SS |  | 188 | 24 | 212 | Buy on Amazon |
| Panasonic NN-SD372S |  | 156 | 4 | 160 | Buy on Amazon |
| Farberware FMO11AHTBKB |  | 152 | 8 | 160 | Buy on Amazon |
| TOSHIBA ML-EM45P(BS) |  | 127 | 9 | 136 | Buy on Amazon |
| Panasonic NN-SN686S |  | 125 | 6 | 131 | Buy on Amazon |
| BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 |  | 74 | 2 | 76 | Buy on Amazon |
| Toshiba ML2-EM62P(SS) |  | 59 | 8 | 67 | Buy on Amazon |
| COMFEE' EM720CPL-PM |  | 43 | 20 | 63 | Buy on Amazon |
Toshiba EM131A5C-BS
- 【Pre-programmed sensor menu】 for optimum heating of popular foods like pizza, potatoes, veggies, and more; Power Wattage (Microwave): 1100W; 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
- 【Other Functions】1100 watts mini microwave with 10 power settings, defrost by time&weight, clock, and kitchen timer, One touch start for multiple food presets
- 【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.
The Toshiba EM131A5C-BS is a microwave that offers a stylish appearance with a large interior, fitting a 12-inch pizza. It is pre-programmed with a sensor menu for optimum heating of popular foods such as pizza, potatoes, and vegetables. The microwave has a power wattage of 1100W and a rated voltage of 120V-60Hz.
The Toshiba EM131A5C-BS has a 1.2 cubic feet capacity with a cavity measuring 13.07 x 15 x 9.5 inches (w x d x h) and a removable turntable of 12.4 inches in diameter. The microwave has 10 power settings and the ability to defrost by time and weight, as well as a clock and kitchen timer.
The control panel is user-friendly and has a large digital display and easy-to-read control panel. There is a mute function that allows users to turn off the buzzer with a long press on button “8” for 3-5 seconds. The buzzer is automatically switched off after a long beep.
According to some users, this microwave operates quietly and smoothly. The touch pad is described as easy to use and the one touch start feature is especially helpful for older individuals. The microwave is also described as easy to clean.
In terms of cooking, the microwave is said to cook evenly and quickly, with a similar cooking time as a microwave with a wattage of 1,000W. The noise level during cooking is described as average for a microwave.
The instruction label on the inside of the microwave is also considered a helpful feature. Additionally, one user recommends purchasing a microwave plate cover to protect the inside from food splatter.
Overall, the Toshiba EM131A5C-BS offers practical features for convenient use and efficient cooking.
Toshiba EM925A5A-BS
- Stylish black stainless steel with timeless design kitchen appliances; Rated voltage: 120V - 60Hz; Rated input power (Microwave ovens): 1350W; Rated output power (Microwave ovens): 900W
- 2Pre-programmed menu for 6 popular foods like popcorn, pizza, potato and more, also defrost by weight and time
- One touch start - quick access to start the microwave from 1 to 6 minutes cooking at full power
- Equipped with power-saving eco mode, sound on/off option and child safety lock
- Microwave size-compact footprint but large capacity: 0.9 Cu. Ft., 10.6 inch removable turntable fits a 10 inch pizza, 900 watts with 10 power settings, clock, and kitchen timer
The Toshiba EM925A5A-BS is a stylish black stainless steel microwave with a timeless design. It has a rated voltage of 120V-60Hz and a rated input power of 1350W with a rated output power of 900W. The microwave is equipped with a pre-programmed menu for 6 popular foods such as popcorn, pizza, potato, and more, and also has a defrost function by weight and time.
One of the standout features of this microwave is the one touch start option, which allows quick access to start cooking from 1 to 6 minutes at full power. Another advantage is the power-saving eco mode, sound on/off option, and child safety lock.
The compact footprint of this microwave, with a capacity of 0.9 Cu. Ft., is another plus. The 10.6 inch removable turntable fits a 10 inch pizza and has 900 watts with 10 power settings, clock, and kitchen timer.
Pros:
- Stylish design
- One touch start
- Power-saving eco mode
- Sound on/off option
- Child safety lock
- Compact footprint
Cons:
- The door needs to be forcefully pulled open and closed, as there is no release trigger
- The turntable rotates at a random speed, which could result in a handle being in a different position after cooking
- The light has been known to flicker and some users have reported losing the light completely
Overall, this microwave offers a good combination of functionality and design, with the added bonus of being able to turn off the beeper, which is a common pet peeve among users. Despite some minor drawbacks, this microwave has received positive feedback from users and appears to be a reliable and well-loved appliance.
Toshiba EM925A5A-SS
- Stylish stainless steel with timeless design (color of door frame is stainless steel, enclosure is black) kitchen appliances; Rated voltage: 120V - 60Hz; Rated input power (Microwave ovens): 1350W; Rated output power (Microwave ovens): 900W
- Kitchen essential with pre-programmed menu for 6 popular foods like popcorn, pizza, potato and more, also defrost by weight and time
- One touch start: quick access to start the microwave from 1 to 6 minutes cooking at full power
- Equipped with power-saving eco mode, sound on/off option and child safety lock. If you wish to mute the buzzer of the microwave, please long press on the button "8" For 3-5 seconds. The buzzer is automatically switched off after a long beep
- Microwave size-compact footprint but large capacity: 0.9 Cu. Ft., 10.6 inch removable turntable fits a 10inch pizza, 900 watts with 10 power settings, clock, and kitchen timer
The Toshiba EM925A5A-SS is a stylish and functional microwave oven that comes in a stainless steel finish. Its compact design makes it a great choice for those who are short on kitchen space, while its 900W power output makes it ideal for heating up food and drinks quickly. One of the standout features of this microwave is the pre-programmed menu, which allows you to quickly select from six popular food options, such as popcorn, pizza, and potatoes. It also includes a defrost function, both by weight and time.
One-touch start is a convenient feature that makes it quick and easy to start cooking for one to six minutes at full power. This microwave also comes equipped with eco mode, which helps you save energy, and a sound on/off option, which allows you to mute the buzzer. There’s also a child safety lock to ensure your kids are safe when using the microwave.
The 0.9 cubic foot interior is spacious enough to fit a 10-inch pizza and the 10.6-inch turntable is removable for easy cleaning. The microwave has 10 power settings, a clock, and a kitchen timer, making it a versatile appliance for your kitchen.
In terms of performance, this microwave is reliable and works well. Many users have noted that it is relatively quiet, making it ideal for use at any time of day. The bright interior light is also a nice feature that makes it easy to see what’s cooking. The touch pad is a bit difficult to press, but it works fine overall.
However, some users have noted that the button pad may start to lift up, which can cause air bubbles to form underneath. Additionally, some users have found that the rotating plate slips out of place, which can be frustrating. A few users have also noted that the microwave may not heat food as quickly as expected, and that it may take around 10% longer to heat things than the suggested cooking times listed on food packages.
In conclusion, the Toshiba EM925A5A-SS is a solid microwave oven that is quiet, easy to use, and looks great in any kitchen. Its compact design, pre-programmed menu, and one-touch start make it an attractive option for those who are looking for an affordable and functional microwave. While it may have a few minor shortcomings, such as a touch pad that is difficult to press and a rotating plate that slips out of place, it is still a good choice for those who are looking for a reliable microwave oven.
How We Chose Them?
Most microwave ovens do not come with a decibel rating, making it difficult to determine the noise level of the appliance. To help you choose the quietest microwave oven, we analyzed over 600 models on the market and hundreds of thousands of user reviews.
We ranked the models based on how many of the reviews mentioned the words “quiet” or “silent”. This information gave us a clear picture of which models are known for their quiet operation, and which brands are trusted by consumers for their peaceful performance.
In addition to the user reviews, we also considered other factors such as brand reputation, wattage, type of fan or ventilation system, type of turntable or rotating mechanism, and customer satisfaction to determine the overall quality of each model. This information was then used to create our list of the top brands and models for a quiet microwave oven.
By considering both the user reviews and other important factors, we were able to create a comprehensive list of the quietest microwave ovens on the market, ensuring you have the information you need to make an informed decision.
Understanding Microwave Oven Noise
The first step in finding the quietest microwave oven is to understand the sources of noise. When a microwave oven is in operation, there are several components that can contribute to the overall noise level, including the fan, the turntable, and the motor.
The decibel (dB) scale is used to measure the loudness of sound, with a higher dB level indicating a louder sound. When it comes to microwave ovens, a sound level of 50 dB or less is considered to be quiet.
Measuring the noise level of a microwave oven is simple. You can use a decibel meter or an app on your smartphone to determine the noise level in decibels. Keep in mind that the sound level will vary depending on the size and power of the microwave oven.
Factors That Affect Microwave Oven Noise
There are several factors that can influence the noise level of a microwave oven, including:
Size of the Microwave Oven
The size of a microwave oven can have a significant impact on the noise level. Generally, larger microwave ovens have more room for a better ventilation system, which can result in a lower noise level. On the other hand, smaller microwave ovens may have a less efficient ventilation system, leading to a higher noise level.
Power and Wattage
The power and wattage of a microwave oven can also play a role in determining the noise level. A higher wattage means that the microwave oven will heat food faster, but it may also generate more noise. A lower wattage may result in a quieter operation, but it may take longer to heat food.
Type of Fan or Ventilation System
The type of fan or ventilation system used in a microwave oven can also impact the noise level. Some models come with a silent fan that operates quietly, while others may have a loud fan that generates more noise.
Type of Turntable or Rotating Mechanism
The type of turntable or rotating mechanism used in a microwave oven can also affect the noise level. Some models come with a smooth and quiet turntable, while others may have a noisy mechanism that generates more sound.
Top Quiet Microwave Oven Brands
When it comes to finding the quietest microwave oven, it’s essential to consider the brand reputation. Some brands are known for offering high-quality and quiet microwave ovens, while others may not have the same level of expertise.
A comparison of the noise levels for popular brands can give you a better idea of which brands offer the quietest models. Here are some of the top brands to consider when looking for a quiet microwave oven:
- Panasonic
- Sharp
- LG
- GE
- Samsung
Of these brands, Panasonic and Sharp are known for their quiet operation and have a range of models with a noise level of 50 dB or less. LG and GE also have a range of quiet models, with some models featuring a silent fan for a noise-free operation. Samsung is another brand that offers quiet microwave ovens, with some models featuring a ceramic interior for a more peaceful operation.
Buying Guide for a Quiet Microwave Oven
When shopping for a quiet microwave oven, it’s essential to consider several key factors to make the best choice for your kitchen. Here’s a buying guide to help you find the perfect appliance:
Budget
The first and most important factor to consider is your budget. Quiet microwave ovens can range in price from $50 to $500 or more, depending on the size, power, and features. Determine how much you’re willing to spend before you start shopping to narrow down your options.
Size and Capacity
The size and capacity of a microwave oven are also important factors to consider. Make sure to measure the space where you plan to place the appliance and choose a model that fits comfortably in the space. You’ll also want to consider the capacity of the microwave oven and choose one that meets your cooking needs.
Power and Wattage
The power and wattage of a microwave oven can affect the noise level, as well as the cooking time. Choose a model with a wattage that meets your cooking needs and provides a quick and efficient operation.
Type of Fan or Ventilation System
The type of fan or ventilation system used in a microwave oven can impact the noise level. Look for a model with a silent fan or a quiet ventilation system for a peaceful operation.
Type of Turntable or Rotating Mechanism
The type of turntable or rotating mechanism used in a microwave oven can also affect the noise level. Choose a model with a smooth and quiet turntable for a more peaceful operation.
Brand Reputation and Customer Reviews
Finally, consider the brand reputation and customer reviews when shopping for a quiet microwave oven. Read reviews from other customers to see how they rate the noise level and overall performance of the appliance. This information can help you make an informed decision and choose the best model for your needs.
Conclusion
Finding the quietest microwave oven can be a challenge, but with the right information, you can find the perfect appliance for your kitchen. From understanding the sources of noise in a microwave oven to the top brands offering the quietest models, this guide has everything you need to know.
When shopping for a quiet microwave oven, consider your budget, size and capacity, power and wattage, type of fan or ventilation system, type of turntable or rotating mechanism, and brand reputation and customer reviews.
With this information, you’ll be able to find the quietest microwave oven for your kitchen and enjoy a peaceful operation every time you cook.