Microwaves have become one of the must-have electronic devices in your kitchen today.
They are simple to use, heat your food in just a few minutes and may even cook some foods.
However, they are sometimes loud which can be a problem especially if you’re using them at night.
Noise coming from the humming of the magnetron or the beeping at the end of the process can be annoying.
If you’re tired of the loud sounds coming from your microwave then it may be time to upgrade to a silent microwave.
In this article, we’ll be taking a look at some of the quietest microwaves on the market.
We’ll also discuss a few ways to silence and muffle microwave noises if you don’t want to purchase a new appliance.
5 silent microwaves
- Noise Feature: On/off sound button
- Capacity: 0.7 cubic feet
- Dimensions: 17.3 x 13 x 10.2 inches
The quietest microwave on the market is the COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PMB microwave.
It is compact for use in apartments, offices and dorm rooms yet large enough to fit a removable 10-inch turntable.
The best thing about it is the option to disable all sounds with just the touch of a button.
This on-off sound feature is quite useful since you can use your microwave without disturbing those around you.
This 700-watt microwave features 6 auto cook keys and has 11 power levels to choose from on the one-touch control panel.
The LED display lies above the flat keys and can show the clock, a kitchen timer or the remaining time when heating your meal.
There’s even an eco-mode button that turns the LED display off when the unit is not in use.
This is a great feature to take advantage of if you are trying to reduce your energy bills.
The COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PMB microwave oven comes with a child safety lock.
If you have little ones around, this feature will make sure they can’t mess around with the microwave.
- Noise Feature: Mute option
- Capacity: 0.9 cubic feet
- Dimensions: 19.2 x 15.9 x 11.5
The Toshiba EM925A5A-SS microwave features a timeless stainless steel design.
It comes with a Mute option that allows you to cook and heat foods quietly.
Simply hold the “8” for about 3 seconds to turn off the end-cooking alert and beep sound.
The 900-watt microwave is compact and has a capacity of 0.9 cubic feet.
This mute microwave comes with 6 preset heating options.
If you can’t be bothered to set the timer, you can use the Express Cook button which heats food in 6 minutes.
Like the unit mentioned above, this microwave also comes with ECO mode to save power and reduce energy bills.
It also includes a bright LED cavity light to offer a clear interior view when cooking so you can monitor your dishes easily.
Other features include the easy-to-read control panel, shockproof bar and child safety lock.
The Toshiba EM925A5A-SS microwave is great for small as well as large kitchens.
- Noise Feature: On/off sound button
- Capacity: 0.9 cubic feet
- Dimensions: 19.09 x 15.41 x 11.51 inches
We have yet another COMFEE’ Microwave on our list but this one comes with a slight twist.
If you love that retro microwave look, then you’ll love the COMFEE’ CMM091AAGN microwave.
It comes in 3 fabulous colors; cream, red and pastel green.
However, do not be fooled by the bright colors and retro look, this is a state-of-the-art appliance.
This 0.9 cubic feet microwave comes with an auto position memory function to minimize the risk of burns when removing mugs or dishes from the microwave.
The position memory feature enables the turntable to return to its starting point.
It has nine preset menus and a multi-stage cooking function that enables you to finish defrosting and cooking at once.
If more time is needed you can use the Express button to cook for 30 more seconds with full power.
This microwave comes with similar features as the other COMFEE’s unit on this list including the ECO mode, LED digital display, child lock and on/off sound button.
However, the control panel on this unit is different and features a dial and 5 buttons.
- Noise Feature: Inverter Technology
- Capacity: 2.2 cubic feet
- Dimensions: 19.44 x 23.88 x 14 inches
If you’re after a large and powerful microwave, the Panasonic NN-SN966S is what you need.
This large countertop microwave is great for larger kitchens and includes a 16.5-inch turntable.
Although large, it is thinner and lighter than others which means it takes up less space.
This 1250-watt microwave with a 2.2 cubic feet capacity is equipped with inverter technology.
The use of this technology makes this unit far quieter than others and delivers a seamless stream of cooking power.
It features smart cooking features with a sensor that adjusts the power and the time based on different foods so they are cooked or heated without overcooking.
You’ll also enjoy the 14 preset menu items, quick minute timer, delay start and child safety lock.
This Panasonic microwave also has a keep-warm feature that keeps soups, gravy or desserts warm until they’re ready to serve.
- Noise Feature: subtle sound at the end
- Capacity: 0.9 cubic feet
- Dimensions: 19 x 15 x 11 inches
The final microwave on our list is the Nostalgia RMO4RR Retro microwave.
This is yet another unit that features that vintage look and comes in various colors to match any decor.
It has a capacity of 0.9 cubic feet and while there’s no dedicated silent feature, it operates fairly quietly.
The most noise you’ll hear is when you close the door and the soft sound it makes to alert you that the reheating or cooking process is finished.
Unlike other units that come with 6-9 pre-programmed cooking settings, this microwave goes beyond that and comes with a whole lot more.
It includes 12 great pre-programmed cooking settings and a delay timer with food heating options for potatoes, pizza, popcorn, veggies and others.
Use the simple turn-and-push dial to set the cooking time, food weight or choose one of the pre-programmed settings.
Meanwhile, the LED-lighted control panel on this unit shows the current time and information while your food is being cooked.
Buying guide to the quietest microwave
If you’re not sold on our list of the quietest microwaves, here’s how to find a quiet microwave.
Follow the criteria mentioned below and you’ll find the quietest microwave oven that best suits your needs.
Noise level
When looking for a quiet microwave, the first thing to consider is the noise level.
Look for a microwave with silent mode.
Check to see if it has a sound off/on feature especially if you’re going to be using it a lot at night.
If there is no way to turn the sound off then try to figure out what kind of alert it has.
Some units will give off 3 beeps while others will keep beeping until you take the food out.
You should also pay attention to the amount of noise the microwave produces while heating meals.
Microwave sounds can be coming from the fans, the turntable or something else.
Either way, you want to make sure that the microwave you’re thinking of purchasing operates fairly quietly while heating food and after it’s finished.
Do some research and read user reviews from previous owners to get a clear idea of how much noise the unit produces.
Size
The size of the microwave is one of the most important factors to consider.
This is more so if you do not have a lot of counter space.
The first thing you need to do is identify the space where you wish to place your microwave.
Once you know where you’re going to place it, choose the size of the unit based on that.
However, keep in mind that the external dimensions matter but you also need to consider the internal size or volume of the microwave.
This is usually listed in the manufacturer’s specifications in cubic feet.
You’ll find a large range of sizes to choose from so go for the one that best suits your space and needs.
Wattage and performance
When reheating your meals in the microwave, you want the process to be as quick and easy as possible.
However, you may end up in some trouble due to the wattage of the microwave.
Appliances with lower wattages may take longer to heat things but they are often quieter than those with higher wattages.
You’ll have to choose the wattage based on where your priorities lie.
Choose whether you prefer quiet operation over quick heating or vice-versa.
That being said, try to go for an appliance that offers at least 700 watts and over.
Anything lower than this would be too weak to heat your food quickly and evenly.
While you need something 700 watts and over, try not to go over 1000 Watts.
As you go up in watts, the louder the microwave will be during operation.
Apart from the wattage, the heating technology used by the microwave also affects performance.
Conventional microwaves are a bit cheaper and more plastic friendly.
However, they can leave your food half-cold.
Convection microwaves are much like ovens but they can be expensive and there’s a risk of burning your food as well.
Try to find microwaves that have different pre-set buttons.
You can also opt for those with sensors that can help you choose the most suitable time and level of heat for a particular type of food.
Material and design
Consider the materials the microwave is made of.
Choose microwaves made from materials that are easy to clean and durable.
One good example is stainless steel.
Stainless steel microwaves are pretty easy to wipe clean and can serve you for many years.
You should also think about getting a microwave that both you and your family will know how to use.
Choose a design that is easy to understand for everyone in the home.
If everyone in your home is familiar with an LED screen and how to work a touchpad then you can get a modern-looking device.
On the other hand, you can opt for a retro microwave with simple dial controls.
Other features
Some other features you can look for are ECO mode or a child safety lock.
ECO mode is great if you’re trying to reduce your energy bills.
The child safety lock is great if you have kids in your home.
This feature makes sure that they cannot mess around and possibly hurt themselves using the microwave.
Many other features come with microwaves so identify what you want and look for a unit that offers it.
What causes microwave noise?
All appliances, even the quietest blender will start to produce some weird noises after some time.
Just like them, microwaves have several parts that may start producing random noises over time too.
If you’re hearing any of these sounds, it may be time to replace or repair your unit.
Do not attempt to fix any of these issues unless you’re a licensed professional.
If you’re not, hire one to minimize the risk of injury to yourself.
Turntable
The turntable motor can malfunction due to age and use.
This can cause the oven to vibrate producing annoying sounds.
Stirrer motor
The stirrer motor is the part that moves the metal blade that distributes the energy in the microwave.
Sometimes it can wear out and result in grinding noises.
Magnetron tube
if the magnetron tube is burning out it can make a buzzing or growling sound.
Exhaust fan
The exhaust fan regulates the temperature of the microwave.
Sometimes it can produce a humming or whirring sound.
Make your quiet microwave oven quieter
To make your quiet microwave oven or existing microwave quieter, try the methods below.
Use an anti-vibration mat.
If you notice that your microwave is rattling or shaking during operation, use an anti-vibration mat.
Placing your microwave on an anti-vibration mat will absorb the vibrations and minimize the noise.
If you’re looking for a quick solution you can use a thick towel since it has some sound absorption capabilities.
However, this should only be a temporary fix, try to get the anti-vibration mat.
Soundproof the kitchen door
In some cases, there isn’t much you can do to quiet your microwave if it has no mute feature.
Your best option is to keep the noise contained in the kitchen.
You can do this by soundproofing the kitchen door.
Read this guide on how to soundproof a door.
The main things you should focus on are adding mass to the door, sealing any gaps around the door frame and installing a door sweep.
If you don’t have a kitchen door or live in an open-concept apartment, you can install some soundproof curtains or room dividers.
These should minimize some of the sounds coming from the microwave so you won’t disturb others in the home.
Conclusion
If you’re tired of the annoying sounds coming from your current microwave, it may be time to purchase a quiet unit.
A silent microwave will not disturb others with its incessant beeping.
It will heat your food just as well as its noisier counterparts while being as quiet as possible.
Upgrade to a silent microwave today.
You can choose any one of the units mentioned in our list.
These quiet units are easy to use, affordable and perform well.
If you’re not ready to buy a new unit just yet, try the methods outlined above to make your microwave quieter.