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9 Best Quiet Countertop Microwaves (November 2026)

Updated on · By the Microwave Doctor team

The best quiet countertop microwaves include the TOSHIBA Countertop Microwave Oven for quiet family kitchens, the Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft. for compact quiet cooking, and the BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven for simple quiet-size value.

On this page (12 sections)
  1. Which quiet countertop microwave is best for shared spaces?
  2. TOSHIBA Countertop Microwave Oven: Best for quiet family kitchens
  3. Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft.: Best for compact quiet cooking
  4. BLACK+DECKER 0.7 Cu.Ft.: Best for simple quiet-size value
  5. GE Countertop Microwave Oven: Best for shared-space safety
  6. COMFEE' Countertop Microwave Oven: Best for muted dorm cooking
  7. Sharp SMC2266KS: Best for large quiet-meal loads
  8. COMFEE' Retro Countertop Microwave Oven: Best for quiet retro kitchens
  9. Sharp SMC1464KS: Best for medium family portions
  10. BLACK+DECKER 0.9 Cu.Ft.: Best for a mid-size compact counter
  11. What should you look for in a quiet countertop microwave?
  12. Which quiet countertop microwave should you choose?

The best quiet microwave countertop pick for most shared kitchens is the TOSHIBA Countertop Microwave Oven. Its ECO+Mute feature addresses control beeps, while the 1.2 cu. ft. capacity, humidity sensor and 10 power levels give you more flexibility than the smallest models.

If you need the smallest cabinet with a stated mute button, choose the Chefman or COMFEE'. If you need room for large dishes, the Sharp SMC2266KS has the biggest capacity here, but it does not have a stated mute function.

Quiet microwave shopping is mostly about control sounds and placement, because the supplied product information does not give operating-noise measurements for these models. A mute button can silence beeps, but it does not mean the fan or cooking cycle will be silent.

For basic operation, review our guide on how to work a microwave. If the appliance will be used by someone who needs simpler controls, our guide to a microwave for seniors with dementia covers safety and control considerations.

The TOSHIBA suits a family kitchen where several people use the same appliance at different times of day. Its 1,000W output helps with reheating larger portions, while a lower power level can be used for gentler tasks.

Its 12.4 in glass turntable should suit standard plates and bowls used for everyday meals. The cabinet measures 20.6 W x 14.6 D x 11.8 H in, so it needs a wider and deeper counter than the compact 0.7 cu. ft. picks.

Set up this model on a level surface with room for airflow around the sides and top. Keep the interior and turntable clean so food does not splatter onto the walls during use.

The humidity sensor may help when reheating leftovers that vary in moisture from day to day. Presets still have limits, so check the food and add time in short steps when needed.

Chefman suits a dorm desk, office corner or small apartment where counter space is tight. Its 700W output means longer times for some foods, but the cabinet is easier to place away from sleeping areas.

COMFEE' suits a similar small space when ECO mode and muted beeps are the priority. Its compact size makes placement flexible, even if the interior only fits smaller plates.

The Sharp SMC2266KS suits a home where large trays and casserole dishes are common. Its 2.2 cu. ft. interior and 16.5 in turntable come at the cost of a 24.4 in width that many counters cannot spare.

Choose by room first, then by dish size and power. A stated mute control matters most when beeps travel into bedrooms, study areas or shared office rooms.

Our picks at a glance

  1. 1 TOSHIBA Countertop Microwave Oven
    Best for quiet family kitchens

    TOSHIBA Countertop Microwave Oven

    9.7/10 our score

    See it on Amazon
  2. 2 Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft.
    Best for compact quiet cooking

    Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft.

    9.7/10 our score

    See it on Amazon
  3. 3 BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven
    Best for simple quiet-size value

    BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven

    9.6/10 our score

    See it on Amazon
  1. 4GE Countertop Microwave Oven

    GE Countertop Microwave Oven

    Best for shared-space safety
    Check it
  2. 5COMFEE' Countertop Microwave Oven

    COMFEE' Countertop Microwave Oven

    Best for muted dorm cooking
    Check it
  3. 6Sharp SMC2266KS 2.2 cu. ft. 1200W Stainless

    Sharp SMC2266KS 2.2 cu. ft. 1200W Stainless

    Best for large quiet-meal loads
    Check it
  4. 7COMFEE' Retro Countertop Microwave Oven

    COMFEE' Retro Countertop Microwave Oven

    Best for quiet retro kitchens
    Check it
  5. 8Sharp SMC1464KS 1.4 cu. ft. 1100W Stainless

    Sharp SMC1464KS 1.4 cu. ft. 1100W Stainless

    Best for medium family portions
    Check it
  6. 9BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven

    BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven

    Best for a mid-size compact counter
    Check it

Which quiet countertop microwave is best for shared spaces?

The TOSHIBA is the strongest all-around choice, while Chefman and COMFEE' are better when compact size and a mute button matter more than capacity. Choose a model with a stated mute feature when late-night or early-morning beeps could disturb other people.

We compared capacity, power, stated mute controls, control layout, child locks and counter footprint against the needs of shared homes, offices, apartments and dorms. Our score weighs specs, features and buyer feedback against what you're shopping for.

For a shared home, the TOSHIBA gives a useful balance of mute control, sensor cooking and 1.2 cu. ft. space. It can handle family dishes without needing the footprint of the 2.2 cu. ft.

Sharp.

For a dorm or office, Chefman and COMFEE' keep the footprint close to 17.3 in wide. Their 0.7 cu. ft. cabinets suit single meals, drinks and small snacks.

Child locks matter where children, visitors or coworkers may press buttons by mistake. GE, Chefman, BLACK+DECKER and COMFEE' models list a child lock feature in their data.

Control layout matters for people who use the microwave quickly between tasks. Preset buttons and express cooking reduce button presses, while power levels give more control for melting, softening and reheating.

Counter footprint can decide the choice before features do. Measure width, depth and height, then leave space for door swing and airflow.

Power should match your usual portions. A 700W compact oven can manage small servings, while 950W to 1,200W models suit larger loads and faster reheating.

Mute controls are stated for TOSHIBA, Chefman, COMFEE' standard and COMFEE' Retro. Other models should be chosen for capacity or power only if beeps are not a concern.

Placement also affects how quiet a kitchen feels. A cabinet placed away from beds and seating may disturb fewer people, even when beeps remain on.

Match the pick to who uses it, when it is used and what dishes go inside. That match usually matters more than chasing the largest capacity.

ProductBest forCapacitySizePowerOur score
TOSHIBA Countertop Microwave Ovenquiet family kitchens1.2 cu. ft.20.6 W x 14.6 D x 11.8 H in1,000W output9.7
Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft.compact quiet cooking0.7 cu. ft.17.52 W x 12.93 D x 9.53 H in700W9.7
BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Ovensimple quiet-size value0.7 cu. ft.17.3 W x 13 D x 10.2 H in9.6
GE Countertop Microwave Ovenshared-space safety1.1 cu. ft.20.31 W x 15.63 D x 12 H in9.5
COMFEE' Countertop Microwave Ovenmuted dorm cooking0.7 cu. ft.17.3 W x 13 D x 10.2 H in9.4
Sharp SMC2266KS 2.2 cu. ft. 1200W Stainlesslarge quiet-meal loads2.2 cu. ft.24.4 W x 19.6 D x 13.6 H in9.1
COMFEE' Retro Countertop Microwave Ovenquiet retro kitchens0.7 cu. ft.17.3 W x 14.3 D x 10.2 H in8.4
Sharp SMC1464KS 1.4 cu. ft. 1100W Stainlessmedium family portions1.4 cu. ft.20.4 W x 16.8 D x 12.4 H in1,100W8.3
BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Ovena mid-size compact counter0.9 cu. ft.18.7 W x 13.4 D x 10.68 H in8.1

TOSHIBA Countertop Microwave Oven: Best for quiet family kitchens

1

TOSHIBA Countertop Microwave Oven: Best for quiet family kitchens

TOSHIBA Countertop Microwave Oven, quiet countertop microwaves
9.7/10Our score
  • ECO+Mute
  • 1.2 cu. ft. capacity
  • 1,000W output
  • Smart humidity sensor
  • 10 power levels

The mute function, sensor cooking and larger 12.4 in glass turntable make this a strong fit for shared kitchens. Its 1.2 cu. ft. cabinet needs more counter space than compact picks.

See it on Amazon

Pros

  • Mute function
  • Humidity sensor
  • 10 power levels

Cons

  • Larger footprint than 0.7 cu. ft. models

The TOSHIBA Countertop Microwave Oven is the best fit when you want a quiet control panel without giving up everyday capacity. Its ECO+Mute feature addresses beeps, while the 1.2 cu. ft. interior gives you more room than the 0.7 cu. ft. models.

Its 1,000W microwave output supports regular reheating and cooking. Ten power levels let you lower the setting for tasks such as softening or gentler heating instead of using full power for everything.

The smart humidity sensor adjusts cooking time and power based on food humidity. Six preset menus cover choices such as pizza, vegetables and sensor reheat, and one-touch start lets you begin 1 to 6 minutes at full power.

The 12.4 in removable glass turntable is useful for standard plates and bowls. The black stainless steel cabinet measures 20.6 W x 14.6 D x 11.8 H in, so measure your counter before choosing it.

Use the mute function when control sounds are the main concern. The data does not include a decibel rating, so don't treat the mute feature as proof that fan or motor noise disappears.

TOSHIBA Countertop Microwave OvenCheck it on Amazon

Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft.: Best for compact quiet cooking

2

Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft.: Best for compact quiet cooking

Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft., quiet countertop microwaves
9.7/10Our score
  • Mute button
  • 0.7 cu. ft. capacity
  • 700W
  • 10 power levels
  • 6 cooking presets

Chefman's mute button directly addresses beeps in dorms, bedrooms and shared kitchens. Its compact cabinet trades some capacity and cooking power for easier placement.

See it on Amazon

Pros

  • Mute button
  • Small footprint
  • Child safety lock

Cons

  • 700W output is lower than larger picks

Chefman is the most direct choice for a small room where a mute button and compact dimensions matter. Its 0.7 cu. ft. cabinet measures 17.52 W x 12.93 D x 9.53 H in, making it the shortest model in this group.

The 700W microwave has 10 power levels. That range lets you choose lower heat for melting butter or higher heat for faster cooking, though 700W may take longer than the 950W to 1,200W models.

Six cooking presets cover popcorn, pizza, beverages, vegetables, potatoes and leftovers. The +30 seconds button adds time without requiring a full re-entry of the cooking program.

Chefman's audio button turns off the microwave's beeps. That makes it a strong fit for late-night snacks, shared bedrooms and offices where control sounds matter.

The child safety lock helps prevent the door from opening accidentally. The glass turntable is top-rack dishwasher safe, which simplifies routine cleaning.

Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft.Check it on Amazon

BLACK+DECKER 0.7 Cu.Ft.: Best for simple quiet-size value

3

BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven: Best for simple quiet-size value

BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven, quiet countertop microwaves
9.6/10Our score
  • 0.7 cu. ft. capacity
  • 700W
  • 10 power levels
  • Child safety lock
  • 10 in removable glass turntable

This compact BLACK+DECKER keeps daily controls simple with preset cooking buttons, 10 power settings and a push-button door. It has no stated mute function, so it is less certain for beep-sensitive rooms.

See it on Amazon

Pros

  • Compact size
  • 10 power levels
  • Push-button door

Cons

  • No mute function stated

This 0.7 cu. ft. BLACK+DECKER suits a small counter and straightforward daily cooking.

Its 17.3 W x 13 D x 10.2 H size fits the same compact category as Chefman and COMFEE', with 700W of cooking power.

Ten power settings give you more control than a single full-power button. Preset buttons cover popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen vegetables, beverages and dinner plates.

The removable 10 in glass turntable supports regular small-portion heating. A large LED display shows the cooking information, while the push-button door release makes access simple.

This model includes a child safety lock, interior light and clock and kitchen timer functions. However, the product information does not state a mute function.

Choose it when compact size and familiar digital buttons matter more than silent beeps. If you need a confirmed way to turn off control sounds, Chefman or COMFEE' is a safer match.

For daily setup, place the oven on a level counter with space around the ventilation openings. Wipe the interior after splatters and wash the removable turntable as directed.

The 700W output suits drinks, soups and leftovers in small portions. Larger or denser foods may need extra time or a pause to stir and check temperature.

The push-button door release may suit users who prefer a firm opening action. The child safety lock can help in shared kitchens where accidental starts are a concern.

Keep the counter clear in front of the door so plates can be removed safely. This compact size works well for apartments, offices and dorms where a larger cabinet would crowd the work area.

BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave OvenCheck it on Amazon

GE Countertop Microwave Oven: Best for shared-space safety

4

GE Countertop Microwave Oven: Best for shared-space safety

GE Countertop Microwave Oven, quiet countertop microwaves
9.5/10Our score
  • 1.1 cu. ft. capacity
  • 950W
  • 6 convenience settings
  • Child lock
  • Auto and manual defrost

GE gives shared kitchens a child lock, digital keypad and 6 convenience cooking settings. Its published features do not include a mute control, so confirm sound behavior if quiet beeps are essential.

See it on Amazon

Pros

  • Child lock
  • 950W cooking power
  • Auto and manual defrost

Cons

  • No mute function stated

The GE Countertop Microwave Oven is a good shared-space option when a child lock and electronic keypad matter. Its 1.1 cu. ft. capacity gives you more room than compact 0.7 cu. ft. models without reaching the width of the large Sharp.

GE gives this model 950W of cooking power and 6 convenience cook settings. The digital display and keypad let you set cook time and power directly.

Auto and manual defrost modes help thaw food while reducing the need to guess at a single full-power setting. The glass turntable supports more even heating as food rotates.

The cabinet measures 20.31 W x 15.63 D x 12 H in. GE also specifies 3 in of clearance on each side and above, plus 1 in at the rear, with the bottom unobstructed.

The child lock is useful in family kitchens and shared offices. The product information does not state a mute setting, so confirm the sound behavior if silent beeps are essential.

GE Countertop Microwave OvenCheck it on Amazon

COMFEE' Countertop Microwave Oven: Best for muted dorm cooking

5

COMFEE' Countertop Microwave Oven: Best for muted dorm cooking

COMFEE' Countertop Microwave Oven, quiet countertop microwaves
9.4/10Our score
  • Mute function
  • 0.7 cu. ft. capacity
  • 700W
  • ECO mode
  • Two-step child lock

COMFEE' is built around quiet control sounds, with a mute function that turns off microwave beeps. ECO mode can reduce standby power while the small cabinet fits apartments, offices and dorms.

See it on Amazon

Pros

  • Mute function
  • ECO mode
  • Compact footprint

Cons

  • 700W output

COMFEE' is one of the clearest picks for quiet control sounds because its mute function turns off microwave beeps. The 0.7 cu. ft. cabinet measures 17.3 W x 13 D x 10.2 H in, which suits dorms, offices, apartments and small kitchens.

Its 700W power level works for everyday reheating and cooking. One-touch settings cover popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen vegetables, beverages and reheating.

You can defrost by weight or time, then add 30 seconds with the express button. The two-step child lock adds a control barrier in shared spaces.

ECO mode minimizes standby power by 50 percent and can turn off the LED display. That may be useful in a room where display light is distracting at night.

The interior uses enameled steel, and the package includes the microwave oven and a manual instruction book. Choose this model when muted beeps and low standby use are more important than higher wattage.

COMFEE' Countertop Microwave OvenCheck it on Amazon

Sharp SMC2266KS: Best for large quiet-meal loads

6

Sharp SMC2266KS 2.2 cu. ft. 1200W Stainless: Best for large quiet-meal loads

Sharp SMC2266KS 2.2 cu. ft. 1200W Stainless, quiet countertop microwaves
9.1/10Our score
  • 2.2 cu. ft. capacity
  • 1,200W
  • 16.5 in carousel turntable
  • Sensor Cook
  • 10 power levels

Sharp's large interior suits family-size dishes and larger serving trays. Its data does not state a mute function, and the 24.4 in width requires substantial counter space.

See it on Amazon

Pros

  • Largest capacity here
  • 1,200W
  • Sensor Cook

Cons

  • Very wide countertop footprint
  • No mute function stated

The Sharp SMC2266KS is the right size for large portions and serving dishes, not for a narrow counter. Its 2.2 cu. ft. interior and 16.5 in carousel turntable provide the most space in this roundup.

At 1,200W, it has the highest stated microwave output here. Ten power levels, 2-stage cooking, Sensor Cook and Auto Cook support more detailed meal preparation.

Weight and time defrost help you choose a method based on the food. The +30 seconds key and express cooking up to 6 minutes make short heating tasks faster to start.

The stainless steel cabinet measures 24.4 W x 19.6 D x 13.6 H in. It can also be used as a built-in with an optional Sharp trim kit sold separately, but that is different from ordinary countertop placement.

The product information does not state a mute function or noise rating. Choose it for interior room and power, then confirm control-sound behavior if your kitchen needs silent beeps.

Sharp SMC2266KS 2.2 cu. ft. 1200W StainlessCheck it on Amazon

COMFEE' Retro Countertop Microwave Oven: Best for quiet retro kitchens

7

COMFEE' Retro Countertop Microwave Oven: Best for quiet retro kitchens

COMFEE' Retro Countertop Microwave Oven, quiet countertop microwaves
8.4/10Our score
  • Mute function
  • 0.7 cu. ft. capacity
  • 700W
  • 11 power levels
  • Green retro design

The retro COMFEE' pairs a mute function with a 0.7 cu. ft. cabinet and 11 power levels. Its green finish is a design choice as well as a practical fit for small kitchens.

See it on Amazon

Pros

  • Mute function
  • 11 power levels
  • Compact capacity

Cons

  • 700W output

The COMFEE' Retro is the best match for a buyer who wants a mute function with a green retro design. Its 0.7 cu. ft. capacity and 700W output suit everyday portions in apartments, dorm rooms, offices and small kitchens.

Eleven adjustable power levels give you a little more control than the 10-level compact models. Six preset menus handle common heating and cooking tasks, while defrost by weight or time helps with frozen food.

The cabinet measures 17.3 W x 14.3 D x 10.2 H in. It is compact, but its depth is greater than the Chefman and the 0.7 cu. ft.

BLACK+DECKER.

The mute function silences operation sounds when needed. A child safety lock adds another shared-space feature, while the LED display keeps settings visible.

Choose this model when appearance matters as much as quiet control sounds. Choose COMFEE' standard instead if ECO mode and a two-step child lock are more useful than the retro look.

COMFEE' Retro Countertop Microwave OvenCheck it on Amazon

Sharp SMC1464KS: Best for medium family portions

8

Sharp SMC1464KS 1.4 cu. ft. 1100W Stainless: Best for medium family portions

Sharp SMC1464KS 1.4 cu. ft. 1100W Stainless, quiet countertop microwaves
8.3/10Our score
  • 1.4 cu. ft. capacity
  • 1,100W
  • 12.4 in carousel turntable
  • Sensor Cook
  • Inverter Cooking Technology

This Sharp offers more room than compact 0.7 cu. ft. models without reaching the size of the 2.2 cu. ft. pick. Its data does not state a mute function.

See it on Amazon

Pros

  • 1.4 cu. ft. capacity
  • 1,100W
  • Sensor Cook

Cons

  • No mute function stated

The Sharp SMC1464KS fits buyers who need more than compact capacity but less than a 2.2 cu. ft. cabinet. Its 1.4 cu. ft. interior and 12.4 in carousel turntable suit medium family portions.

Its 1,100W output supports fast cooking and reheating. Sensor Cook, Auto Cook, 10 power levels and 2-stage cooking give you several ways to adjust daily meals.

The +30 seconds key and express cook function help with short tasks. Weight and time defrost provide separate ways to thaw food.

The stainless cabinet measures 20.4 W x 16.8 D x 12.4 H in. It needs more depth than the compact picks, so check the counter edge, wall and nearby cabinets before setup.

This model's product information does not state a mute function. Choose it for its capacity and cooking controls, not for confirmed silent beeps.

For set up, leave room for the door to open and for air to move around the cabinet. Keep the turntable centered and the interior clear around the dish so rotation stays smooth.

The 12.4 in carousel turntable should suit plates and medium serving dishes used by a small family. Check that wide dishes still turn freely before a full cooking cycle.

Sensor Cook may help with reheating foods that differ in moisture. Use the sensor options for suitable foods and switch to manual time and power when you need closer control.

Express Cook up to 6 minutes can speed up short heating tasks. The +30 seconds key also helps when food needs a little more time after an initial check.

Wipe splatters from the gray interior and clean the turntable regularly. This model suits a kitchen where capacity and power matter more than a confirmed mute control.

Sharp SMC1464KS 1.4 cu. ft. 1100W StainlessCheck it on Amazon

BLACK+DECKER 0.9 Cu.Ft.: Best for a mid-size compact counter

9

BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven: Best for a mid-size compact counter

BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven, quiet countertop microwaves
8.1/10Our score
  • 0.9 cu. ft. capacity
  • 900W
  • 10 power levels
  • 6 auto-cook presets
  • 10.6 in removable glass turntable

The 0.9 cu. ft. BLACK+DECKER gives you more interior room and power than the 0.7 cu. ft. model while staying fairly compact.

See it on Amazon

Pros

  • 900W
  • 0.9 cu. ft. capacity
  • 10 power levels

Cons

  • No mute function stated

The 0.9 cu. ft. BLACK+DECKER gives you a middle option between compact 0.7 cu. ft. ovens and larger family models.

Its 900W output and 10.6 in glass turntable add useful room without reaching the size of the Sharp models.

Six auto-cook presets cover popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen vegetables, beverages and dinner plates. Ten power settings let you adjust the cooking level, while the digital display shows the timer and remaining time.

The cabinet measures 18.7 W x 13.4 D x 10.68 H in. Its door frame is stainless steel and its enclosure is black, so the finish differs from a fully stainless exterior.

A child safety lock, interior light and push-button door support daily use. The product information does not state a mute function.

Choose this model when 0.7 cu. ft. feels too small but your counter cannot fit a 1.1 or 1.4 cu. ft. oven. For silent control sounds, choose a model with a stated mute feature instead.

BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave OvenCheck it on Amazon

What should you look for in a quiet countertop microwave?

Start with a stated mute button or mute function, then check the cabinet size, power and control layout. A quiet countertop microwave should also leave enough clearance for airflow and have controls that fit the people who will use it.

Does a mute button make a microwave silent?

No. A mute button normally addresses beeps and other control sounds, not the fan, turntable or cooking-cycle noise.

Chefman, COMFEE' standard, COMFEE' Retro and TOSHIBA have stated mute features, but none of the data gives a decibel rating.

Is a smaller microwave quieter?

Not necessarily. Smaller models may be easier to place farther from bedrooms or seating areas, but size alone does not prove lower operating noise.

Compare stated mute controls and place the unit on a stable, level counter.

How much power do you need?

Choose 700W for basic reheating and small portions, or move toward 950W to 1,200W when you want faster cooking and larger capacity. Use the package directions for your microwave's wattage instead of copying times from a higher-powered model.

Why do capacity and turntable size matter?

Capacity tells you how much interior room the cabinet offers, while turntable diameter helps you judge whether plates and dishes will rotate freely. The 2.2 cu. ft.

Sharp has the largest stated turntable at 16.5 in, while the compact models use smaller interiors.

How much clearance does a countertop microwave need?

Follow the instructions for your exact model and keep ventilation openings clear. GE specifies 3 in on each side and above, 1 in at the rear and an unobstructed bottom for its countertop microwave.

Can a countertop microwave go under a cabinet?

Only if the model's clearance and ventilation instructions allow it. Do not treat a countertop model as an over-the-range unit.

Read Can You Put an Over-the-Range Microwave on a Countertop? before moving an over-the-range appliance.

How should you use a quiet microwave?

Use a microwave-safe container, keep the turntable area clear and follow the model's instructions for time, power and defrosting. Our guide on how to use a Sharp microwave explains the control ideas that also apply to other models.

Microwaves heat food with electromagnetic energy, so container choice and food shape affect results. Read how microwaves work if you want the basic explanation.

For practical food examples, see can you microwave frozen peas and how to microwave poached eggs. For a larger feature set, compare these picks with our guide to the best high end countertop microwave.

Which quiet countertop microwave should you choose?

Choose the TOSHIBA Countertop Microwave Oven if you want the best mix of a stated mute feature, 1.2 cu. ft. capacity, sensor cooking and 10 power levels. Choose Chefman or COMFEE' when a compact 0.7 cu. ft. cabinet and muted beeps matter most.

Pick GE or the 0.9 cu. ft. BLACK+DECKER when you want more room without a large family-size cabinet.

Choose Sharp when capacity and power matter more than a confirmed mute control.

The best quiet microwave countertop choice is the one that matches your room, dish sizes and sound needs. A mute function can control beeps, but it does not replace careful placement or confirm that the appliance operates without fan or turntable noise.

For a shared family kitchen, the TOSHIBA is the safest all-around match. Its ECO+Mute feature helps with beeps, and its 1,000W output and humidity sensor suit regular reheating.

For a dorm, office or small apartment, Chefman gives a compact 0.7 cu. ft. cabinet with a mute button. Its 700W output is best for small portions, drinks and snacks.

COMFEE' standard is another compact option with muted beeps and ECO mode. It suits a room where display light and standby use are also concerns.

GE suits a shared kitchen where a child lock and electronic keypad matter. Its 1.1 cu. ft. cabinet and 950W output give more room than compact picks.

The 0.9 cu. ft. BLACK+DECKER sits between compact and family sizes.

Its 900W output and 10.6 in turntable suit a mid-size counter.

Sharp SMC1464KS suits medium family portions with 1.4 cu. ft. and 1,100W. Sharp SMC2266KS suits large dishes with 2.2 cu. ft., 1,200W and a 16.5 in turntable.

Measure your counter before you choose any of these models. Allow room for door swing, airflow and safe removal of hot dishes.

Check the stated mute feature when beeps matter at night or early in the morning. If a model has no stated mute control, choose it only when sound is not a priority.

Keep the turntable area clear and follow the defrost and power instructions for each food. That routine helps any of these picks give steadier results in daily use.

Our top 3 picks at a glance

  1. 1 TOSHIBA Countertop Microwave Oven
    Best for quiet family kitchens

    TOSHIBA Countertop Microwave Oven

    9.7/10 our score

    See it on Amazon
  2. 2 Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft.
    Best for compact quiet cooking

    Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft.

    9.7/10 our score

    See it on Amazon
  3. 3 BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven
    Best for simple quiet-size value

    BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven

    9.6/10 our score

    See it on Amazon