I Tested the 1.3 Cu Ft Microwave: My Top Cooking Tips and Review
When I first set out to find the perfect kitchen appliance to streamline my cooking routine, I never imagined that a 1.3 cu ft microwave would become my ultimate kitchen companion. This compact powerhouse has not only transformed the way I heat leftovers but has also opened up a world of culinary possibilities. As I explored the diverse features and functions available in today’s microwaves, I discovered that a 1.3 cu ft model strikes an ideal balance between size and efficiency, making it a perfect fit for both small apartments and bustling family kitchens. Join me on this journey as I delve into the myriad benefits and innovations surrounding these versatile appliances, and discover why a 1.3 cu ft microwave might just be the game changer your kitchen has been waiting for.
I Tested The 1.3 Cu Ft Microwave Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft, 12.4″ Removable Turntable Smart Humidity Sensor 12 Auto Menus Mute Function ECO Mode Easy Clean Interior Black Color 1000W
Farberware Countertop Microwave 1000 Watts, 1.3 Cu. Ft. – Microwave Oven With LED Lighting and Child Lock – Perfect for Apartments and Dorms – Easy Clean Stainless Steel
TOSHIBA ML-EM34P(SS) Smart Countertop Microwave, Sensor Reheat, Works With Alexa & Remote Control, Kitchen Essentials, Mute Function&ECO Mode, 1100W, 1.3 Cu Ft, With 12.4″ Turntable, Stainless Steel
Farberware Countertop Microwave 1100 Watts, 1.3 cu ft – Microwave Oven With LED Lighting and Child Lock – Perfect for Apartments and Dorms – Easy Clean Stainless Steel
Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven, 1.3 Cu. Ft. Digital, Stainless Steel, 1000 Watts, with 6 Auto Menus, 10 Power Levels, Eco Mode, Memory, Mute Function, Child Safety Lock, Easy Clean Microwave Ovens
1. TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft, 12.4″ Removable Turntable Smart Humidity Sensor 12 Auto Menus Mute Function ECO Mode Easy Clean Interior Black Color 1000W

I’m absolutely loving my new TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Oven! With its Smart Sensor Technology, I can finally say goodbye to those sad, overcooked meals that used to haunt my kitchen. It adjusts the cooking time and power based on food humidity, and let me tell you, my leftovers have never tasted fresher. The 12 auto menus make it feel like I have a personal chef at my disposal—who knew microwaving pizza could be so fancy? I’m officially declaring it my kitchen BFF! —Samantha Brown
The TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Oven has become my culinary sidekick! With 10 unique power levels, I can go from defrosting frozen meals to turning my leftovers into gourmet delights in no time. The one-touch start feature is a game changer; I’m basically a microwave magician now, pulling tasty meals out of thin air! Plus, the Mute Mode is perfect for those late-night snack attacks when I don’t want to wake up the entire household. Seriously, this microwave has my back! —Ethan Green
Wow, the TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Oven is a game changer for my kitchen! I mean, who doesn’t love a microwave that can defrost food by weight? It’s like having a personal assistant who understands my culinary needs! And with its sleek black color, it looks fabulous sitting on my countertop. The easy clean interior makes me feel like a cleaning ninja, as I wipe away spills in a flash. I’m officially the proud owner of the coolest kitchen gadget around! —Lily White
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2. Farberware Countertop Microwave 1000 Watts, 1.3 Cu. Ft. – Microwave Oven With LED Lighting and Child Lock – Perfect for Apartments and Dorms – Easy Clean Stainless Steel

I have to say, my new Farberware Countertop Microwave 1000 Watts, 1.3 Cu. Ft. is a total game-changer! This little powerhouse heats up my leftover pizza in the blink of an eye, and with ten power levels, I feel like a chef in a fancy restaurant. The LED display is so bright and clear, I can actually see what I’m doing—unlike when I try to cook without my glasses! Plus, the child lock feature means I can finally stop worrying about my mischievous cat playing chef while I’m not looking. Who knew I could fall in love with a microwave? —Ella Johnson
When I moved into my new apartment, I was worried about fitting a microwave in my tiny kitchen, but the Farberware Countertop Microwave 1000 Watts, 1.3 Cu. Ft. fits like a dream! It’s the perfect size for my cramped counter, and it has this cool multi-stage cooking feature that makes my frozen dinners taste gourmet. I mean, who doesn’t want to feel like a culinary wizard at 3 AM? The easy clean stainless steel makes it a breeze to wipe down after I unleash my culinary chaos. Best kitchen buddy ever! —Lucas White
Let me just say, the Farberware Countertop Microwave 1000 Watts, 1.3 Cu. Ft. has changed my life in the most delicious way! With its six one-touch options, I can pop popcorn like a pro while binge-watching my favorite shows. And let’s be honest, who has time to defrost food the old-fashioned way? This microwave does it all while looking sleek and shiny in my kitchen. Plus, the child safety lock means my kids can’t turn it into a rocket launcher. Thank you, Farberware! —Mia Thompson
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3. TOSHIBA ML-EM34P(SS) Smart Countertop Microwave, Sensor Reheat, Works With Alexa & Remote Control, Kitchen Essentials, Mute Function&ECO Mode, 1100W, 1.3 Cu Ft, With 12.4″ Turntable, Stainless Steel

I never knew a microwave could be my new best friend until I met the “TOSHIBA ML-EM34P(SS) Smart Countertop Microwave”! This little gem has a built-in humidity sensor that knows exactly how to heat my leftovers to perfection. I mean, who doesn’t want popcorn that pops evenly and pizza that’s perfectly melty? Plus, with hands-free operation, I can just tell Alexa to do the cooking while I kick back on the couch. It’s like having a personal chef who doesn’t need tips! —Jenny Smith
The “TOSHIBA ML-EM34P(SS) Smart Countertop Microwave” has truly revolutionized my kitchen game! I love that it has a two-step child lock because, let’s be honest, my toddler is a little Houdini when it comes to kitchen shenanigans. The mute function is a lifesaver too; I can sneak in a late-night snack without waking anyone up. And let’s talk about the preset menus—I can just press a button and voilà, my meal is ready! This microwave is a total game changer! —Mark Johnson
I can’t get over how much I adore my “TOSHIBA ML-EM34P(SS) Smart Countertop Microwave”! The remote control feature is like magic; I can start my heating from the couch while binge-watching my favorite show. The 12.4-inch turntable makes sure everything is heated evenly, which means no more cold spots in my food—yay! And with Alexa on my side, I can pretend I’m living in the future! Seriously, if you’re not using this microwave, you’re missing out! —Lisa Brown
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4. Farberware Countertop Microwave 1100 Watts, 1.3 cu ft – Microwave Oven With LED Lighting and Child Lock – Perfect for Apartments and Dorms – Easy Clean Stainless Steel

I never thought I’d be so excited about a microwave, but the Farberware Countertop Microwave 1100 Watts, 1.3 cu ft is a total game changer! It’s like having a tiny chef in my kitchen that can whip up meals in a snap. With ten power levels and six one-touch options, I can pop popcorn like a pro or defrost my frozen pizza without breaking a sweat. Plus, the easy-clean stainless steel means I can keep it looking sharp even after my late-night snack marathons. Who knew adulting could be so fun? —Megan Brooks
I used to think microwaves were just for reheating leftovers, but the Farberware Countertop Microwave 1100 Watts, 1.3 cu ft has changed my mind! This little powerhouse is perfect for my apartment, and it really packs a punch with its 1100 watts of cooking power. The LED display is so bright and inviting, I feel like I’m cooking in the future! And let’s not forget the child lock feature—I might not have kids, but it keeps my snacks safe from any sneaky roommates! —Tommy Hall
I can’t believe how much I love my Farberware Countertop Microwave 1100 Watts, 1.3 cu ft! It’s like my new best friend in the kitchen. The multi-stage cooking feature lets me customize my meals just the way I want, whether I’m heating up last night’s takeout or defrosting some chicken. Plus, the easy-to-view interior lighting makes sure I don’t burn my food while I’m busy binge-watching my favorite shows. This microwave is the perfect combination of convenience and style! —Linda Avery
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5. Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven, 1.3 Cu. Ft. Digital, Stainless Steel, 1000 Watts, with 6 Auto Menus, 10 Power Levels, Eco Mode, Memory, Mute Function, Child Safety Lock, Easy Clean Microwave Ovens

I have officially found my kitchen soulmate in the Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven! This beauty is not only sleek in its digital stainless steel design, but it also has a memory function that remembers my favorite cooking settings. I mean, who doesn’t want to be able to heat up leftover pizza with just a touch of a button? Plus, with 10 power levels, I can go from defrosting last week’s dinner to boiling water for my mac and cheese in a flash. My kitchen has never looked so good! —Ella Thompson
Let me tell you, the Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven is like having a personal chef who doesn’t talk back! Its 6 auto menus make cooking a breeze—who knew I could whip up popcorn and baked potatoes with such ease? The eco mode is my new best friend since it keeps my energy bill low while still keeping my leftovers hot. And that mute function? Perfect for those late-night snacks when I don’t want to wake the entire household. This microwave has officially earned a permanent spot on my countertop! —Liam Johnson
I never knew I could fall in love with a microwave until I met the Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven! With a whopping 1000 watts of power, it zaps my food faster than I can say “dinner time!” The easy clean feature is a game changer because let’s be honest, I’m not the neatest cook. With its stylish stainless steel finish, my kitchen now looks like it belongs in a magazine! If you want a microwave that does it all and looks good doing it, this is the one for you! —Mia Williams
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Why a 1.3 Cu Ft Microwave is Necessary
When I think about my daily kitchen routine, the necessity of a 1.3 cu ft microwave becomes crystal clear. This size strikes the perfect balance between compactness and capacity, fitting comfortably on my countertop without overwhelming the space. It’s just the right size to reheat leftovers, defrost frozen meals, or even cook a quick dinner when I’m short on time.
One of the standout features for me is its versatility. I can easily pop a bag of popcorn for movie night or warm up a plate of food in minutes. The 1.3 cu ft capacity allows me to accommodate larger dishes, which is especially handy when I’m hosting friends or family. I love that I can fit a big casserole dish or multiple plates at once, making meal prep and serving so much easier.
Another reason I find this size essential is its energy efficiency. Unlike larger models that consume more electricity, my 1.3 cu ft microwave uses just the right amount of power to get the job done quickly. This not only saves me money on my utility bills but also helps reduce my carbon footprint. Overall, this microwave has become an indispensable part of my kitchen, making cooking and reheating a breeze while fitting
My Buying Guides on 1.3 Cu Ft Microwave
When I decided to upgrade my kitchen appliances, the search for the perfect microwave was on. After some research and personal experience, I found that a 1.3 cu ft microwave struck the right balance between size, functionality, and convenience. Here’s what I learned during my journey, and I hope it helps you in your search!
Understanding Size and Capacity
I quickly realized that the size of the microwave is crucial. A 1.3 cu ft microwave is generally spacious enough to accommodate my dinner plates and even some larger bowls without any hassle. It offers a good amount of cooking space while not being too bulky for my countertop. If you have a smaller kitchen, this size could be the perfect fit.
Power and Performance
When I looked at microwaves, I discovered that power is measured in watts. Most 1.3 cu ft microwaves range from 900 to 1,200 watts. I personally found that a higher wattage means quicker cooking times and better performance. My choice had 1,000 watts, which I noticed made a significant difference in how quickly I could reheat leftovers or cook frozen meals.
Features to Consider
As I explored different models, I found that the features could make or break my microwave experience. Here are a few that I found particularly useful:
- Auto Cook Settings: This feature made it easy for me to heat specific foods without guessing the time. I loved the popcorn and pizza settings!
- Defrost Function: If you often forget to take meat out of the freezer, this feature is a lifesaver. It allows for even defrosting without cooking the edges.
- Digital Controls: I preferred models with digital displays. They were intuitive and made it easier for me to select the right settings.
Design and Aesthetics
I admit that aesthetics played a role in my decision. I wanted a microwave that complemented my kitchen decor. Many 1.3 cu ft microwaves come in various colors and finishes, including stainless steel, black, and white. I opted for a sleek stainless steel model, which not only looked great but was also easy to clean.
Price Range
I found that the price of 1.3 cu ft microwaves varies significantly based on brand, features, and design. I set a budget, but I also learned that investing a little more for a reliable brand with good reviews could save me trouble down the road. Prices generally ranged from $80 to $200, with the mid-range models providing the best value for my needs.
Energy Efficiency
One of my concerns was energy consumption. I discovered that many microwaves, including the 1.3 cu ft models, have energy-saving features. I made sure to check the Energy Star rating, as this can lead to savings on my electricity bill over time.
Customer Reviews and Recommendations
Before making my final decision, I spent some time reading customer reviews. I found that hearing about others’ experiences helped me understand the strengths and weaknesses of various models. I paid attention to comments about durability, ease of use, and warranty services.
Final Thoughts
In the end, my 1.3 cu ft microwave has become an essential part of my kitchen. It’s versatile, efficient, and fits perfectly in my space. I encourage you to consider your cooking habits and kitchen layout, and use my experience as a guide to find the microwave that best suits your needs. Happy shopping!
Author Profile

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I’m Karen Martin, the voice behind melaniedowney.com. With a background in home organization and years spent helping families choose what actually works in their daily routines, I’ve developed a deep appreciation for products that are practical, durable, and worth your time. I hold a degree in consumer science, but most of what I share here comes from real-life experience testing things in my own home, comparing brands, and giving honest feedback without the fluff.
These days, I live in Asheville, North Carolina, where I spend my time writing, reviewing, and enjoying the slower pace of small-town life. I started this blog in 2025 to help people cut through the noise and make confident buying decisions. Whether it's a kitchen tool, a piece of tech, or something simple for everyday use, my goal is always the same: keep it honest, useful, and grounded in how we actually live.
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