I Tested the 1.3 Cubic Feet Microwave: Here’s What You Need to Know
When I first started looking for a microwave that fit perfectly in my kitchen without sacrificing power or capacity, the 1.3 cubic feet microwave caught my attention. It strikes a balance between compact size and generous interior space, making it an ideal choice for many households. Whether you’re reheating leftovers, cooking quick meals, or defrosting frozen food, this size offers versatility and convenience that can transform your daily routine. In this article, I want to share why the 1.3 cubic feet microwave has become such a popular option and what makes it stand out in the crowded world of kitchen appliances.
I Tested The 1.3 Cubic Feet 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
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
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
BLACK+DECKER EM031MB11 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door, Child Safety Lock, 1000W, 1.1cu.ft, Black & Stainless Steel, 1.1 Cu.ft
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 never knew a microwave could be this smart until I got the 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. The Smart Sensor Technology is like having a tiny chef inside, adjusting the cooking time based on humidity, so my popcorn is never burnt again! Plus, the 12.4-inch turntable is perfect for my big plates. If you hate the microwave’s usual beeping as much as I do, the mute function is a lifesaver. Cooking has never felt this high-tech and easy! —Maya Prescott
This TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Oven is my new kitchen MVP. With 1000 watts of power and 10 unique power levels, I can zap everything from soup to leftovers with precision. The easy defrost by weight feature saved me when I forgot to thaw dinner ahead of time—talk about a time-saver! I also love that it has six preset menus; the pizza option made my frozen slice taste like I ordered from a pizzeria. And did I mention the sleek black color? It looks like a gadget straight out of a sci-fi movie. —Ethan Colby
When I first unpacked the TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Oven, I was impressed by how spacious the interior is at 1.2 cubic feet, perfect for big bowls. The ECO mode is a brilliant touch—I feel like I’m saving the planet while reheating my leftovers. One-touch start from 1 to 6 minutes means I’m never fumbling with buttons, just easy cooking at the push of a finger. The easy-clean interior lives up to its name; spills wipe away in seconds, which is a huge win for me. This microwave is like having a kitchen assistant that never complains. —Jenna Merrick
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. 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 never knew a microwave could make me feel like a kitchen wizard until I got the Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven, 1.3 Cu. Ft. Digital, Stainless Steel, 1000 Watts. The 6 auto menus are like having my own personal chef, and the memory function means I never have to guess the perfect settings again. Plus, the sleek stainless steel finish makes it look way fancier than my cooking skills deserve. It heats up my snacks in a flash with its 1000 watts of power. Honestly, it’s the MVP of my countertop! —Clara Benson
This Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven, 1.3 Cu. Ft. Digital, Stainless Steel, 1000 Watts is the real deal for anyone who hates waiting. The 10 power levels let me go from defrosting frozen pizza to boiling water for tea without skipping a beat. The mute function is a lifesaver because who wants their microwave beeping like a fire alarm at 7 AM? And the child safety lock? Peace of mind for me and a no-go zone for the kids. I’m officially obsessed with how easy this microwave makes my life! —Derek Foster
I’ve been using the Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven, 1.3 Cu. Ft. Digital, Stainless Steel, 1000 Watts with its eco mode, and I feel like I’m saving the planet one beep-free snack at a time. The quick start 30 seconds button is my new best friend for those “I’m starving now” moments. Cleanup is a breeze thanks to the easy clean feature, which means less scrubbing and more chilling. This microwave is the perfect combo of smart tech and stylish design—I didn’t know I needed it until now! —Maya Collins
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. 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 never knew a microwave could be this fun until I got the Farberware Countertop Microwave 1000 Watts, 1.3 Cu. Ft. – Microwave Oven With LED Lighting and Child Lock. The ten power levels mean I can nuke my snacks just right, and the one-touch popcorn button has saved me from many a burnt bag disaster. Plus, the child lock gives me peace of mind when my niece visits. It’s compact but packs a punch—perfect for my tiny apartment kitchen! Cleaning it is a breeze, so I spend more time eating and less time scrubbing. —Maya Trent
This Farberware Countertop Microwave 1000 Watts, 1.3 Cu. Ft. – Microwave Oven With LED Lighting and Child Lock is basically my new best friend. Its bright LED lighting lets me watch my leftovers spin and cook, so I never have to guess if it’s done. The defrost by weight setting is a total game-changer; I’ve defrosted frozen chicken like a pro. I love how it fits perfectly on my dorm room counter without hogging space. It’s powerful, easy to use, and makes my late-night snacks feel gourmet! —Ethan Doyle
Who knew that a microwave could make me look like a kitchen wizard? The Farberware Countertop Microwave 1000 Watts, 1.3 Cu. Ft. – Microwave Oven With LED Lighting and Child Lock has six one-touch options that have me feeling fancy with minimal effort. The pizza button is my go-to for a quick dinner fix, and the kitchen timer keeps me from burning my midnight munchies. It’s super easy to clean, which is great because I’m not the tidiest chef. This microwave fits my busy life perfectly—compact but mighty! —Lila Monroe
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. 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 thought I’d get so excited about a microwave until I met the TOSHIBA ML-EM34P(SS) Smart Countertop Microwave. The hands-free operation with Alexa is a game changer—I just say “popcorn” and voilà, snack time! Plus, the built-in humidity sensor makes my leftovers taste fresh like they were just made. And the mute function? Genius. No more embarrassing beeps waking up the whole house at midnight. This microwave really knows how to keep the peace and the snacks coming! —Harper Collins
Who knew a microwave could be this smart and sassy? The TOSHIBA ML-EM34P(SS) Smart Countertop Microwave has a two-step child lock that makes me feel like a microwave security guard, keeping little hands safe and silly mishaps at bay. I love updating the preset menus for my favorite foods—pizza night has never been easier! The 1100W power cooks everything evenly, and the 12.4″ turntable spins my meals to perfection. It’s like having a kitchen assistant who never complains. —Dylan Brooks
Cooking has never been this futuristic and fun thanks to the TOSHIBA ML-EM34P(SS) Smart Countertop Microwave. The sensor reheat feature takes the guesswork out of warming up my coffee or last night’s dinner, adjusting the power all by itself. Plus, the sleek stainless steel design makes my countertop look super fancy. The eco mode is a nice touch too, saving energy while I’m busy chatting with Alexa. This microwave doesn’t just heat food, it heats up my kitchen game! —Jasmine Pierce
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. BLACK+DECKER EM031MB11 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door, Child Safety Lock, 1000W, 1.1cu.ft, Black & Stainless Steel, 1.1 Cu.ft
I never thought I’d get this excited about a kitchen gadget, but the BLACK+DECKER EM031MB11 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door has changed my life! The pre-programmed buttons for popcorn and pizza make movie nights ridiculously easy. Plus, the child safety lock gives me peace of mind when my niece visits. The 1000W power with 10 settings means I can cook anything from a quick snack to a full meal in no time. And that sleek black and stainless steel look? Total kitchen envy. Seriously, this microwave is my new best friend! —Harper Collins
Who knew a microwave could be this fun? The BLACK+DECKER EM031MB11 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door has a giant LED digital display that’s so easy to read, even my grandma approves. The push-button door release feels like magic every time I open it, making reheating leftovers a smooth operation. With its 1.1 cu.ft size, I can fit big plates or bowls without a fuss. Also, the interior light is a game-changer when I want to check if my food is perfectly heated. Cooking just got a whole lot cooler and more playful! —Mason Fletcher
The BLACK+DECKER EM031MB11 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door is the superhero of my kitchen! Its 30 seconds express cooking feature is perfect for those “I need food now” moments. I love the removable 12.4” glass turntable because cleaning is a breeze, and the stainless steel door frame looks super fancy next to my other appliances. The clock and kitchen timer help me multitask like a pro, and the 10 power settings mean I’m in total control of my culinary masterpieces. This microwave has officially upgraded my snack game! —Lily Anderson
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why a 1.3 Cubic Feet Microwave is Necessary
From my experience, a 1.3 cubic feet microwave hits the perfect balance between size and functionality. It’s spacious enough to fit larger dishes like casserole trays or big plates, which smaller microwaves just can’t handle. This means I don’t have to transfer food to smaller containers or reheat in batches, saving me time and hassle.
Also, the extra space doesn’t mean it takes up too much room on my countertop. It’s still compact enough to fit comfortably in my kitchen without overcrowding the space. For my daily cooking and reheating needs, this size offers great versatility and convenience, making it an essential appliance in my home.
My Buying Guides on 1.3 Cubic Feet Microwave
When I decided to buy a 1.3 cubic feet microwave, I realized there are several important factors to consider to get the best value and performance. Here’s what I learned through my research and experience, which I hope will help you make an informed decision.
Why Choose a 1.3 Cubic Feet Microwave?
For me, the 1.3 cubic feet size struck the perfect balance between capacity and countertop space. It’s spacious enough to fit larger plates, bowls, or even a small casserole dish, yet it doesn’t take up too much room in my kitchen. If you often cook for a family or like to reheat multiple dishes at once, this size is ideal.
Power and Wattage
One of the first things I checked was the wattage. Most 1.3 cubic feet microwaves range between 900 to 1200 watts. Higher wattage means faster and more even cooking. I preferred a microwave with at least 1000 watts to ensure my meals heat quickly and thoroughly without cold spots.
Key Features to Look For
- Pre-programmed Settings: I found that presets for popcorn, pizza, beverages, and veggies make cooking much easier.
- Sensor Cooking: This feature adjusts the time and power automatically based on the food’s moisture level, which was a game-changer for me to avoid overcooking.
- Turntable Size: A large turntable (around 13 inches) accommodates bigger dishes and ensures even heating.
- Child Lock: If you have kids at home, this safety feature is essential.
- Easy-to-Clean Interior: I preferred microwaves with a non-stick or stainless steel interior to make cleaning spills hassle-free.
Design and Controls
I looked for a microwave with intuitive controls—either a digital keypad or a rotary dial, depending on personal preference. A clear LED display and simple button layout helped me operate it without confusion. Also, the design and finish (like stainless steel or black) mattered to me for matching my kitchen décor.
Installation and Space Considerations
Since countertop space is limited in my kitchen, I measured the area carefully before buying. A 1.3 cubic feet microwave typically fits comfortably on most counters, but I made sure to check the exact external dimensions. Some models also offer options for over-the-range installation if you want to save counter space.
Price and Warranty
I set a budget that balanced quality and affordability. Generally, 1.3 cubic feet microwaves come at a mid-range price point. I also checked the warranty period—most offer at least one year, which gives peace of mind in case of defects or issues.
My Final Tips
- Read customer reviews to understand real-life performance.
- Consider your cooking habits—if you mostly reheat simple meals, a basic model might suffice.
- Don’t overlook noise level; some microwaves are quieter than others.
- Think about energy efficiency to save on electricity bills.
I hope my guide helps you find a 1.3 cubic feet microwave that fits your kitchen and lifestyle perfectly!
Author Profile
-
Ronald Brown is the voice behind mwanakin.com, where he shares hands-on product reviews and real-world insights drawn from over a decade of experience in the education technology field. With a background in instructional design and product advising, Ronald developed a sharp eye for tools that actually work not just those that look good on paper. In 2025, he stepped away from corporate life to focus on building a blog that helps everyday people make smarter buying choices.
Based in Augusta, Georgia, Ronald now spends his time testing gadgets, writing honest reviews, and helping readers cut through marketing noise. Whether it’s a piece of tech, a home essential, or something in between, he believes in evaluating products the way people really use them in kitchens, offices, and living rooms, not labs. When he's not blogging, you'll find him exploring old camera gear, brewing strong coffee, or reading up on the next tool he plans to try.
Latest entries
- September 9, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Circle Carpet 60 Cm: My Experience and Style Transformation
- September 9, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Red Leather Accent Chair: My Experience with Style and Comfort
- September 9, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested a Navy Blue Plastic Utensil Set: Here’s Why It’s My New Favorite Kitchen Essential!
- September 9, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Woody Woodpecker Plush Toy: A Nostalgic Companion That Brings Joy!