Since I utilize the microwave as my chef and rarely have time to cook other than via crock pot, I decided to get a commercial model in hopes that I would not have to replace it for a while. I can't speak to its durability yet as I have only had it less than a month, and have managed to get over the noisy fan that turns on every time I open the door. However, for me the deal breaker was that food does not cook evenly. For example, when I microwaved chili for several minutes the cheese on top was burnt while the chili was cold in the center. I was looking at the panasonic inverter microwaves as their claim to fame is evenly cooked foods, but due to the negative reviews of units breaking down and poor customer service I opted for a commercial oven. It's frustrating having to choose between a microwave that does not last long but cooks well, versus a microwave that outlasts competitors while doing a poor job of its intended purpose. The search, hopefully not a futile one, for a microwave that can deliver on both performance and durability continues...

works great!

This is exactly the microwave we were looking for because we wanted one which was well made with a stainless steel interior and simple to use because we only use it for heating items. After using it for about a month, it really fits our needs and it is good looking too. Larry

The microwave function of this unit, along with the build quality, is excellent. For only a few dollars more it is superior to the typical home microwaves. The only problem is whenever the door is opened, the fan turns on, and it runs for a couple of minutes. There is no way to program around it.(See comments on cutting fan run time.)

When the microwave is on, the fan runs as it should, but it doesn't stop for several minutes after the microwave is done, which is mandatory for commercial cooling. However, when the door is opened to get the food out, the fan count starts over. When the door is opened to put something in, the fan timer starts over, even if the door is shut without the microwave ever being turned on. When I open the door to clean the microwave, guess what starts.

This unit is fan happy, which makes lots of incidental noise for no apparent reason. With 15 other programming options, how about one to leave the fan off unless the microwave is started.

Outside of the excessive fan run time, everything else about this microwave is very good. It cleans easily, it cooks evenly and it's well built.

Update: See the comments for instructions on how to cut the fan run time. Every annoying second counts!

I'm SO glad I purchased this microwave for use in our home. If you're looking for a microwave that does NOT have a turntable, then do consider this one. It's very well built, and easy to use. We're all very happy with it. Seems to heat quickly and evenly too. :) If you DO purchase one of these microwaves please be aware of 2 things so that you don't panic when you go to use it. ;-)

1. When you open the door the fan will automatically turn on, but only the fan. If you leave the door open but don't do anything or if you close the door without cooking anything the fan will turn off after a minute or less.

2. When you're done cooking/heating your stuff and you shut the door after removing your food the fan will continue to blow for around another minute or less. This is perfectly normal and is a good feature to have to make sure that this microwave remains nice and cool throughout the whole process.

I can't recommend this microwave enough! So sturdy, so simple and no blasted turntable (always needing repair) or limiting your dish size choices when cooking. :)