There’s nothing quite as frustrating as needing to quickly heat a meal or defrost ingredients only to be met with a slow, inefficient, or overly complicated appliance. I vividly recall the days of struggling with an old microwave that left cold spots in my food, demanding constant stirring and extra minutes. This constant culinary inconvenience was not only a waste of precious time but also made meal prep a chore, and frankly, a reliable solution was essential to bring peace back to my kitchen. If only I had discovered the BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven sooner, it would have significantly streamlined my daily routine.
- Pre-programmed buttons for popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen vegetable, beverage and dinner plate.Voltage : 110 Volts.Rated Input Power(Microwave):1050W
- 700 Watts with 10 power settings, clock and kitchen timer, 30 Seconds Express Cooking
- Large LED digital display, easy-to-read control panel, child safety lock, interior light, removable 10” glass turntable
Navigating the Microwave Market: What to Ponder
Microwaves are invaluable kitchen companions, designed to save time and simplify cooking tasks like heating leftovers, defrosting meats, or quickly preparing packaged meals. People typically seek a microwave to escape the inefficiencies of stovetop reheating or to add convenience to their busy lives. The ideal customer for a compact microwave oven, such as the BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7, is often someone living in a smaller space – think apartments, dorm rooms, or RVs – or individuals who primarily use the microwave for basic tasks like reheating and defrosting, not extensive cooking. Small families or couples who appreciate a minimalist kitchen setup would also find this appliance beneficial.
Conversely, this specific product category might not be suitable for large families who frequently cook big meals or individuals who require high-wattage power for more advanced microwave cooking, like baking or roasting in larger quantities. Those with ample counter space and a need for more robust features, larger capacity, or higher power might be better off investing in a full-sized, higher-wattage microwave, or even a combination oven.
Before committing to a purchase, prospective buyers should consider several key factors:
* Size and Capacity: Does it fit your available counter space, and is its internal capacity sufficient for your typical dishware and food portions?
* Wattage: How much power do you need? Higher wattage generally means faster and more even heating, but also higher energy consumption.
* Features: Do you need pre-programmed settings, a child safety lock, a timer, or express cooking options?
* Ease of Use: Is the control panel intuitive?
* Material and Aesthetics: Does it complement your kitchen decor, and is it easy to clean?
* Noise Level: Some microwaves can be surprisingly loud during operation.
* Safety Features: A child safety lock is a crucial consideration for families.
- EXTRA-QUICK COOKING: Choose from six popular presets for microwave ovens, including popcorn, pizza, beverages, veggies, potatoes, or leftovers. Or just press the number keys to quickly set the cook...
- Two-Step Child Lock: This mandatory safety feature for microwaves helps prevent unintended use by younger family members, plesase open the machine according to the steps shown in the figure.
- Microwave output power 1000 watts, input power 1600 watts. External dimensions 20.6 x 16.0 x 11.8 inches (WxDxH); internal dimensions 13.1 x 12.4 x 8.3 inches (WxDxH); includes 12.4-inch glass...
Unveiling the BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven
The BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven is a compact, 0.7 cubic feet countertop appliance designed to offer efficient and user-friendly meal preparation. It promises a straightforward solution for daily heating needs without occupying excessive kitchen real estate. When you purchase this unit, you typically receive the stainless steel microwave oven itself, along with essential internal components like the magnetron and a removable 10-inch glass turntable.
This particular model truly shines for individuals, couples, or small families residing in smaller homes, apartments, or dormitories where counter space is a premium. It’s also an excellent choice for those who need a reliable appliance primarily for reheating, defrosting, and cooking small, pre-packaged items. However, if you’re a gourmet chef looking to replace your conventional oven with a microwave, or if you consistently prepare large family-sized meals, this 700-watt, 0.7 cu.ft unit might feel underpowered and too small for your ambitions. It’s a workhorse for convenience, not a culinary powerhouse. While many market leaders offer larger capacities and higher wattages, the EM720CB7 focuses on delivering solid performance within its compact niche, often at a more accessible price point compared to its bulkier counterparts.
Here’s a quick rundown of its pros and cons:
Pros:
* Compact Size: Perfectly suited for small kitchens, dorms, or offices.
* Stylish Stainless Steel Design: Blends well with modern kitchen aesthetics.
* User-Friendly Controls: Easy-to-read LED display and intuitive buttons.
* Pre-Programmed Settings: Convenient one-touch options for common foods.
* Effective Heating and Defrosting: Delivers even results despite its wattage.
Cons:
* 700-Watt Power: May take longer to heat certain items compared to higher wattage models.
* Child Safety Lock: While a safety feature, some users find it cumbersome to repeatedly deactivate.
* Noise Level: Can be somewhat louder than anticipated during operation.
* Limited Capacity: 0.7 cu.ft might be too small for larger plates or family-sized dishes.
* Clearance Requirements: Requires specific surrounding space for proper ventilation, which isn’t always obvious.
Exploring What Makes It Tick: Functions and Gains
Having used the BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven for an extended period, I’ve really gotten to appreciate its blend of simplicity and efficiency. It’s clear that this appliance was designed with the everyday user in mind, focusing on core functionalities that make life a little easier. Let’s break down its features and the tangible benefits they offer.
Compact and Stylish Design
One of the most immediate advantages of the BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven is its compact footprint. Measuring 17.3″W x 13″D x 10.2″H, it slides effortlessly into tight corners or onto smaller countertops without dominating the space. The stainless steel exterior adds a touch of modern elegance that belies its affordable price point, making it an attractive addition to any kitchen. For me, living in an apartment, this was a game-changer. My previous microwave was an unwieldy beast that ate up valuable prep space. This model, however, fits neatly, allowing me to maximize my limited counter area. The benefit here is obvious: a decluttered, more functional kitchen, especially crucial for those with smaller living spaces.
700 Watts with 10 Power Settings
While 700 watts might sound modest compared to some 1000W+ models, the EM720CB7 handles typical reheating and cooking tasks with surprising competence. The inclusion of 10 power settings is key here, allowing for precise control over cooking intensity. This is particularly useful for delicate items that require a lower power setting to heat evenly without overcooking the edges, or for softer defrosting. For example, melting butter or chocolate on a lower setting prevents scorching, while a higher setting can quickly bring a cup of coffee to temperature. This flexibility ensures that whether I’m gently warming a pastry or rapidly reheating a plate of dinner, the microwave adapts to the task.
Intuitive Control Panel and Large LED Display
The control panel is remarkably straightforward, a welcome relief from overly complex interfaces. The large LED digital display is bright and easy to read, even from a distance, showing the time or cooking duration clearly. Buttons are well-labeled and responsive, making operation simple for anyone, regardless of their tech-savviness. This ease of use means less fumbling and more efficient meal prep, reducing the stress often associated with new appliances. The clock and kitchen timer functions, integrated into this display, are also incredibly handy, replacing the need for separate timers and helping to keep my cooking organized.
Convenient Pre-Programmed Buttons
A feature I use almost daily is the set of pre-programmed buttons. Whether it’s popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen vegetable, beverage, or a dinner plate, these one-touch settings take the guesswork out of common microwave tasks. For instance, hitting the ‘Popcorn’ button delivers a perfectly popped bag almost every time, without burning. The ‘Dinner Plate’ option ensures leftovers are heated through evenly. This convenience saves time and ensures consistent results, preventing the frustration of underheated or overcooked food that plagued my past experiences with less advanced microwaves. It’s a small detail that significantly enhances the user experience, especially during a busy week.
30 Seconds Express Cooking
When you just need a quick burst of heat, the 30 Seconds Express Cooking button is invaluable. A single press adds 30 seconds of high-power cooking time, which can be pressed multiple times to add more. This is perfect for quickly warming a forgotten cup of tea, melting cheese on a sandwich, or giving a slightly-cool dish a final touch. This feature highlights the microwave’s focus on speed and efficiency for everyday needs, making minor heating tasks truly instantaneous. It saves me from setting a custom time for tiny heating jobs, a small but significant time-saver.
Removable 10-inch Glass Turntable
The inclusion of a removable 10-inch glass turntable is standard, but its performance is crucial for even heating. My BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 consistently rotates food, ensuring that heat is distributed uniformly, minimizing those dreaded cold spots that often lead to longer cooking times and unsatisfactory meals. The fact that it’s removable also makes cleaning a breeze; a quick wipe-down or a run through the dishwasher keeps the interior hygienic and ready for the next use. This contributes to better food quality and easier maintenance.
Push-Button Door Release
The push-button door release mechanism provides effortless access to the microwave’s interior. Unlike pull-handle doors that can sometimes feel stiff or require a firm tug, this design ensures a smooth, quick open with minimal effort. It’s a small ergonomic detail that contributes to the overall user-friendly experience, especially when my hands are full. The seamless action of the door further emphasizes the thoughtful design of this appliance.
Child Safety Lock
As a parent, the child safety lock is a feature that brings significant peace of mind. It prevents curious little hands from accidentally operating the microwave, averting potential accidents or messes. While some users have found it a bit cumbersome to activate and deactivate, especially if the manual is misplaced, its inclusion is a testament to the product’s commitment to safety. You typically hold the “Stop/Cancel” button for three seconds to engage or disengage it. It’s a trade-off: a slight inconvenience for enhanced home safety, which is a worthwhile exchange for many families.
Durable Stainless Steel Material
The construction of the BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven with stainless steel isn’t just about aesthetics; it also contributes to its durability and ease of maintenance. Stainless steel resists corrosion and staining, making it simple to wipe clean of splatters and fingerprints. This robust material ensures the microwave maintains its sleek appearance and structural integrity over time, offering good value for its lifespan.
What Others Are Saying: Real-World Experiences
I’ve scoured the internet and chatted with other users, and it’s clear that the general sentiment towards the BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven is quite positive. Many people, like me, praise its compact size, stating it’s ideal for small kitchens or dorms, and they appreciate how it heats food effectively and evenly. The ease of use and attractive stainless steel design are frequently highlighted as major pluses. One user mentioned how it perfectly fit their small counter space and consistently performs well. While there are a few comments about the child safety lock being a bit annoying to figure out initially, especially without the manual, most users agree that its overall performance and value make it a highly recommended choice for anyone needing a small, efficient microwave. Some have also noted that while it might not be the quietest or fastest, its defrosting capabilities are surprisingly good, offering more even results than higher-powered units.
Final Thoughts: Is This the Microwave for You?
Ultimately, the persistent problem of unevenly heated food, time-consuming meal preparation, and cluttered kitchen counters needs a straightforward solution. Without a reliable microwave, these minor inconveniences can add up, making daily life more challenging than it needs to be. The BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven is a fantastic fit to solve these issues. Its compact size respects your valuable counter space, its intuitive controls and pre-programmed options simplify heating, and its consistent performance ensures your food is warmed perfectly every time. If you’re looking for an affordable, stylish, and efficient microwave that doesn’t overcomplicate things, then this model is definitely worth considering. Click here to check the product out and bring this reliable appliance into your kitchen!
Last update on 2025-09-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API