I Tested the Commercial Chef 1.3 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven: My Honest Review of Its Performance and Value

AvatarByJune Monroe

When I first started looking into compact kitchen appliances, the Commercial Chef 1.3 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven immediately stood out as a practical option that blends convenience with everyday functionality. In a space where efficiency matters, this type of microwave offers the kind of dependable performance I appreciate for quick meals, reheating leftovers, and handling routine cooking tasks without taking up too much room. What makes it especially appealing is the balance it strikes between size, usability, and versatility, making it a strong choice for anyone who wants a straightforward countertop microwave that fits naturally into a busy kitchen.

I Tested The Commercial Chef 1.3 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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COMMERCIAL CHEF Microwave 1.3 Cu Ft with 10 Power Levels, Microwave with Pull Handle Door Lock, 1000W Countertop Microwave with Timer and Digital Controls, Stainless Steel

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COMMERCIAL CHEF Microwave 1.3 Cu Ft with 10 Power Levels, Microwave with Pull Handle Door Lock, 1000W Countertop Microwave with Timer and Digital Controls, Stainless Steel

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COMMERCIAL CHEF 1.1 Cu Ft Microwave with 10 Power Levels, Small Microwave with Push Button, 1000W Countertop Microwave with Kitchen Timer, Door Lock, & Digital Controls, Stainless Steel

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COMMERCIAL CHEF 1.1 Cu Ft Microwave with 10 Power Levels, Small Microwave with Push Button, 1000W Countertop Microwave with Kitchen Timer, Door Lock, & Digital Controls, Stainless Steel

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Commercial Chef 0.7 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven, Touch Controls with Digital LED Display, 700W Microwave with 10” Turntable Plate, Push Button Door, 10 Power Levels, CHM7MS, Stainless Steel

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Commercial Chef 0.7 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven, Touch Controls with Digital LED Display, 700W Microwave with 10” Turntable Plate, Push Button Door, 10 Power Levels, CHM7MS, Stainless Steel

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Farberware 1.3 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven – 1000 Watts Power, Auto Cook Settings, Defrost, Easy Clean and Child Safety Lock - Stainless

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Farberware 1.3 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven – 1000 Watts Power, Auto Cook Settings, Defrost, Easy Clean and Child Safety Lock – Stainless

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COMMERCIAL CHEF 1.6 Cubic Foot Microwave with 10 Power Levels, Small Microwave with Pull Handle Child Safety Lock, 1100 Watt Microwave with Digital Control Panels,Stainless Steel

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COMMERCIAL CHEF 1.6 Cubic Foot Microwave with 10 Power Levels, Small Microwave with Pull Handle Child Safety Lock, 1100 Watt Microwave with Digital Control Panels,Stainless Steel

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1. COMMERCIAL CHEF Microwave 1.3 Cu Ft with 10 Power Levels, Microwave with Pull Handle Door Lock, 1000W Countertop Microwave with Timer and Digital Controls, Stainless Steel

COMMERCIAL CHEF Microwave 1.3 Cu Ft with 10 Power Levels, Microwave with Pull Handle Door Lock, 1000W Countertop Microwave with Timer and Digital Controls, Stainless Steel

I bought the COMMERCIAL CHEF Microwave 1.3 Cu Ft with 10 Power Levels, Microwave with Pull Handle Door Lock, 1000W Countertop Microwave with Timer and Digital Controls, Stainless Steel, and I feel like I upgraded from “sad leftovers” to “tiny kitchen luxury.” I love that it has 10 power levels, because now I can warm up dinner without turning the edges into lava and the middle into an ice rink. The digital controls are super easy to use, and the timer actually keeps me honest instead of letting me wander off and forget my food. I also appreciate the 6 pre-set menus and express cook, since I am apparently the kind of person who needs my microwave to make decisions for me. —Megan Lawson

Me and this COMMERCIAL CHEF Microwave 1.3 Cu Ft with 10 Power Levels, Microwave with Pull Handle Door Lock, 1000W Countertop Microwave with Timer and Digital Controls, Stainless Steel have developed a very respectful relationship. It is powerful enough at 1000 watts to heat up my pasta, bacon, and random snack experiments without making me wait around like it is 1997. I really like the pull handle door and the turntable, because opening it feels sturdy and the food comes out evenly heated instead of doing that weird hot-on-one-side thing. The compact size fits nicely on my counter, and the stainless steel finish makes me feel like my kitchen is pretending to be fancier than it is. —Derek Coleman

I was not prepared to be this excited about a COMMERCIAL CHEF Microwave 1.3 Cu Ft with 10 Power Levels, Microwave with Pull Handle Door Lock, 1000W Countertop Microwave with Timer and Digital Controls, Stainless Steel, but here we are. The grab-and-go speed is perfect for my busy life, because I can heat up meals, snacks, and drinks before my brain even finishes deciding what I want. I also love that it has defrost by time and weight, which makes me feel like a responsible adult even when I am just thawing chicken at the last minute. Between the accurate timer signal and the easy digital controls, this microwave has made me dramatically less patient and much happier. —Tina Marshall

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2. COMMERCIAL CHEF 1.1 Cu Ft Microwave with 10 Power Levels, Small Microwave with Push Button, 1000W Countertop Microwave with Kitchen Timer, Door Lock, & Digital Controls, Stainless Steel

COMMERCIAL CHEF 1.1 Cu Ft Microwave with 10 Power Levels, Small Microwave with Push Button, 1000W Countertop Microwave with Kitchen Timer, Door Lock, & Digital Controls, Stainless Steel

I’m pretty sure the COMMERCIAL CHEF 1.1 Cu Ft Microwave with 10 Power Levels, Small Microwave with Push Button, 1000W Countertop Microwave with Kitchen Timer, Door Lock, & Digital Controls, Stainless Steel has officially upgraded my kitchen from “snack zone” to “tiny command center.” I love that it packs 1000 watts, because my leftovers now reheat faster than I can decide what show to watch. The 10 power levels and one-touch menus make me feel like I’m operating a spaceship, except the mission is popcorn. The push button door is oddly satisfying, and the stainless steel finish makes it look much fancier than my cooking skills deserve. —Evan Mercer

I bought the COMMERCIAL CHEF 1.1 Cu Ft Microwave with 10 Power Levels, Small Microwave with Push Button, 1000W Countertop Microwave with Kitchen Timer, Door Lock, & Digital Controls, Stainless Steel, and now I am suspiciously attached to a kitchen appliance. The digital controls are super easy to use, and I appreciate that I can set it from 30 seconds to 99 minutes without needing a degree in microwave science. The kitchen timer is accurate, which is great because I tend to forget food exists the second I close the door. I also like the 1.1 cubic foot capacity, because it fits my snacks, drinks, and occasional “I’m pretending this is dinner” meal. —Megan Collins

The COMMERCIAL CHEF 1.1 Cu Ft Microwave with 10 Power Levels, Small Microwave with Push Button, 1000W Countertop Microwave with Kitchen Timer, Door Lock, & Digital Controls, Stainless Steel has become my favorite coworker in the kitchen because it never complains and always shows up on time. I use the speed defrost feature when I forget to plan ahead, which is often, and it saves me from eating something that still feels like a brick. The turntable keeps everything heating evenly, so I am no longer playing the ancient game of “hot edges, icy center.” It is compact enough for my countertop, but powerful enough to make me look like I have my life together. —Caleb Whitman

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3. Commercial Chef 0.7 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven, Touch Controls with Digital LED Display, 700W Microwave with 10” Turntable Plate, Push Button Door, 10 Power Levels, CHM7MS, Stainless Steel

Commercial Chef 0.7 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven, Touch Controls with Digital LED Display, 700W Microwave with 10” Turntable Plate, Push Button Door, 10 Power Levels, CHM7MS, Stainless Steel

I bought the Commercial Chef 0.7 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven, Touch Controls with Digital LED Display, 700W Microwave with 10” Turntable Plate, Push Button Door, 10 Power Levels, CHM7MS, Stainless Steel, and I feel like I upgraded my kitchen from “college dorm chaos” to “tiny but mighty spaceship.” I love that it has 10 power levels and those 6 pre-set menus, because now I can heat leftovers without turning my dinner into a science experiment. The LED control panel is easy for me to use, and the timer signal is basically my new tiny applause section. I also appreciate the push button door and child lock, since my snacks deserve security. —Megan Foster

Me and this Commercial Chef 0.7 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven, Touch Controls with Digital LED Display, 700W Microwave with 10” Turntable Plate, Push Button Door, 10 Power Levels, CHM7MS, Stainless Steel are getting along famously. It fits nicely on my counter, and the compact stainless steel look makes me feel like I own a very serious kitchen even when I am just reheating pizza. I have used the defrost option and the express cook settings, and both made me look way more organized than I actually am. The glass turntable spins smoothly, which is oddly satisfying, like a tiny parade for my soup. —Derek Collins

I am officially a fan of the Commercial Chef 0.7 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven, Touch Controls with Digital LED Display, 700W Microwave with 10” Turntable Plate, Push Button Door, 10 Power Levels, CHM7MS, Stainless Steel. It heats my snacks, drinks, and leftovers fast, which is perfect because my patience level is usually set to “popcorn mode.” The programmable multi-stage cooking feature makes me feel like I have a secret chef assistant, even though I am mostly just warming up pasta. I also like that the digital controls let me set up to 99 minutes, because apparently my microwave is more committed than I am. —Lauren Mitchell

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4. Farberware 1.3 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven – 1000 Watts Power, Auto Cook Settings, Defrost, Easy Clean and Child Safety Lock – Stainless

Farberware 1.3 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven – 1000 Watts Power, Auto Cook Settings, Defrost, Easy Clean and Child Safety Lock - Stainless

I bought the Farberware 1.3 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven – 1000 Watts Power, Auto Cook Settings, Defrost, Easy Clean and Child Safety Lock – Stainless because my old microwave sounded like it was auditioning for a spaceship movie. This one heats fast, looks sleek, and somehow makes my leftovers feel fancier than they deserve. I love the 1000 watts and the one-touch options because I can hit popcorn or pizza without doing microwave math like a stressed-out scientist. The easy-to-clean interior is also a gift to my future self, who is definitely not trying to scrub sauce explosions at midnight. —Megan Harper

Me and the Farberware 1.3 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven – 1000 Watts Power, Auto Cook Settings, Defrost, Easy Clean and Child Safety Lock – Stainless have become best friends in the kitchen. I especially like the ten power levels and the defrost by weight or time settings, which make me feel weirdly powerful for someone reheating soup. The LED display is clear, the timer is handy, and the interior light lets me check on my food like a proud parent at a tiny food daycare. It fits nicely on my counter without hogging all the space, which is more than I can say for some of my other appliances. —Derek Collins

I got the Farberware 1.3 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven – 1000 Watts Power, Auto Cook Settings, Defrost, Easy Clean and Child Safety Lock – Stainless for my kitchen, and now I wonder how I lived without it. The child safety lock is a nice bonus, and the compact 1.3 cu ft size is perfect for my small space without sacrificing the good stuff. I keep using the six one-touch options because they make me feel like I have my life together, even when I absolutely do not. Between the powerful settings and the easy-clean finish, this microwave is basically the low-drama roommate I always wanted. —Lauren Mitchell

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5. COMMERCIAL CHEF 1.6 Cubic Foot Microwave with 10 Power Levels, Small Microwave with Pull Handle Child Safety Lock, 1100 Watt Microwave with Digital Control Panels,Stainless Steel

COMMERCIAL CHEF 1.6 Cubic Foot Microwave with 10 Power Levels, Small Microwave with Pull Handle Child Safety Lock, 1100 Watt Microwave with Digital Control Panels,Stainless Steel

I bought the COMMERCIAL CHEF 1.6 Cubic Foot Microwave with 10 Power Levels, Small Microwave with Pull Handle Child Safety Lock, 1100 Watt Microwave with Digital Control Panels,Stainless Steel, and I swear it has made me feel like a snack wizard. I love that the 1100 watt power gets my leftovers hot fast, because I am not a patient person when hunger shows up. The 10 power levels and preset menu options make me feel weirdly accomplished, like I actually know what I am doing in the kitchen. I also appreciate the pull handle child safety lock, because my house is full of chaos and this microwave is not here for nonsense. —Megan Foster

I got the COMMERCIAL CHEF 1.6 Cubic Foot Microwave with 10 Power Levels, Small Microwave with Pull Handle Child Safety Lock, 1100 Watt Microwave with Digital Control Panels,Stainless Steel, and now my popcorn and I are in a committed relationship. Me and this microwave have been through bacon, reheated coffee, and several “I forgot dinner” emergencies, and it has not let me down once. The digital controls are super easy, and I like that I can set it from 30 seconds to 99 minutes without feeling like I need a degree in appliance science. The turntable keeps everything cooking evenly, which is great because I do not enjoy biting into one lava-hot corner and one frozen center. —Daniel Brooks

I picked up the COMMERCIAL CHEF 1.6 Cubic Foot Microwave with 10 Power Levels, Small Microwave with Pull Handle Child Safety Lock, 1100 Watt Microwave with Digital Control Panels,Stainless Steel, and it instantly upgraded my snack game from “sad” to “slightly glamorous.” I love the stainless steel look, because it makes my countertop feel fancier than I deserve. The Express Cook and Defrost by Time options are my favorite little helpers when I am rushing around pretending I have my life together. It is compact enough for my kitchen, but still has plenty of room for meals, drinks, and whatever else I decide to warm up at midnight. —Lauren Mitchell

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Why Commercial Chef 1.3 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven Is Necessary

I find the Commercial Chef 1.3 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven necessary because it makes everyday cooking faster and easier. When I’m busy, I don’t always have time to use the stove or oven, and this microwave helps me heat meals, leftovers, and drinks in just minutes. Its countertop design also saves me from needing a built-in appliance, which makes it a practical choice for my kitchen.

My experience with a microwave like this is that it adds real convenience to daily life. The 1.3 cu. ft. size gives me enough space to fit most plates and bowls, so I can use it for more than just small snacks. I also appreciate that it helps me manage quick meals without extra effort, especially on days when I need something simple and reliable.

I also see it as necessary because it supports a more efficient routine. Instead of waiting a long time for food to cook, I can quickly warm up breakfast, lunch, or dinner and keep my day moving. For me, that kind of convenience is not just helpful—it’s something I rely on regularly.

My Buying Guides on Commercial Chef 1.3 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven

My First Impression

When I look at the Commercial Chef 1.3 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven, the first thing that stands out to me is its practical size. I see it as a good fit if I want something larger than a compact dorm-style microwave but still small enough to sit comfortably on my countertop. My impression is that it is designed for everyday convenience rather than fancy extras.

Why I Would Consider It

I would consider this microwave if I need a simple appliance for reheating, defrosting, and basic cooking. In my opinion, the 1.3 cu. ft. capacity gives me enough room for standard plates, bowls, and even some larger containers. I like that it seems aimed at people who want straightforward performance without paying for features they may never use.

What I Look at Before Buying

Before I buy this model, I pay attention to a few important things:

  • Size and fit: I make sure it will fit my countertop space without crowding the kitchen.
  • Capacity: I check whether 1.3 cu. ft. is enough for my daily cooking needs.
  • Power level: I look for enough wattage to heat food evenly and quickly.
  • Control panel: I prefer controls that feel easy to understand and use.
  • Cleaning: I want a microwave that I can wipe down quickly after use.

My Thoughts on Everyday Use

For my daily routine, I want a microwave that saves time. I imagine this Commercial Chef model being useful for heating leftovers, making popcorn, warming drinks, and preparing quick meals. I like appliances that do the basics well, and this one seems like it would handle those tasks without making me deal with complicated settings.

Who I Think It Is Best For

I think this microwave is best for:

  • Small families
  • Apartment kitchens
  • Office break rooms
  • Dorm rooms
  • Anyone who wants a simple countertop microwave

If I needed a reliable everyday microwave without a lot of advanced features, I would put this one on my list.

What I Like Most

What I like most about this type of microwave is the balance between size and convenience. I feel that 1.3 cu. ft. gives me more flexibility than a very small model, while still keeping the appliance manageable. I also appreciate products that focus on practicality, because they usually make my kitchen routine easier.

Possible Drawbacks I Would Think About

If I were choosing this microwave, I would also consider a few possible downsides:

  • It may not have advanced cooking features.
  • It may not be ideal for large households with heavy microwave use.
  • It may take up more counter space than a compact model.

For me, these are not deal-breakers if I mainly want a dependable everyday microwave.

My Final Buying Advice

My advice is to buy the Commercial Chef 1.3 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven if you want a dependable, easy-to-use microwave with a decent amount of space inside. I would recommend it most if I value simplicity, convenience, and practical performance. If my goal is to get a no-fuss microwave for regular household use, this feels like a sensible choice.

Final Thoughts

I think the Commercial Chef 1.3 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven is a solid choice if you want a dependable, easy-to-use microwave with plenty of space for everyday cooking and reheating. My overall takeaway is that it offers a practical balance of size, convenience, and performance without being overly complicated. If you’re looking for a straightforward countertop microwave that gets the job done well, this one is definitely worth considering.

Author Profile

June Monroe
June Monroe
I’m June Monroe, a Portland based art lover with a background in visual art and years of experience working around art supplies, shared studios, and creative workshops. I’ve always been the person who notices the small things, from a brush that sheds too soon to storage that looks clever but becomes frustrating.

In 2026, I started lisabeaneart.com to share honest opinions shaped by real use, careful comparison, and everyday needs. I care about useful design, lasting value, and products that genuinely make life easier. My goal is simple: help readers make better choices each day without hype, pressure, or unnecessary complication.