BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7: Impressive Microwave Worth It

The BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven stands out as a compact and efficient solution for modern kitchens with limited space. This review dives deep into its features, performance, and overall value, helping you decide if it’s the right appliance for your home or office.

Quick Summary: BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave

BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Overview

The BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 is designed for efficiency and convenience in a small footprint. This 0.7 cubic foot, 700-watt microwave oven is a testament to Black+Decker’s commitment to practical home appliances, offering essential functionalities without overwhelming your counter space.

It caters perfectly to individuals, couples, or anyone living in apartments, dorm rooms, or small offices where space is at a premium. Its sleek stainless steel finish provides a modern aesthetic that can seamlessly blend into various kitchen decors, making it not just a utility but also a stylish addition.

Despite its compact size, the BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 doesn’t skimp on essential features. It includes a rotating turntable for even heating, multiple pre-programmed settings for common foods, and a digital display that makes operation straightforward and intuitive for users of all experience levels.

The 700 watts of cooking power are sufficient for everyday tasks such as reheating leftovers, defrosting frozen items, and preparing quick snacks. While it may not match the speed of higher-wattage models, its performance is consistent and reliable for its intended purpose.

One of the standout aspects of the BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 is its focus on user safety and convenience. The integrated child safety lock ensures peace of mind for families, preventing young children from operating the microwave accidentally or unsupervised.

This model represents a smart choice for those seeking a dependable, easy-to-use microwave that won’t dominate their kitchen. It balances functionality with a minimalist design, making it a popular option in the compact appliance market. Its robust build quality suggests durability, a hallmark of the Black+Decker brand.

Understanding the context of its design helps appreciate its strengths. It’s not built for cooking large roasts or elaborate meals, but rather for quick, efficient heating of smaller portions. This specialization allows it to excel within its niche, providing reliable performance for everyday microwave needs.

The push-button door mechanism is another detail contributing to its user-friendly nature. It offers a smooth and effortless way to access the microwave cavity, a small but significant detail that enhances daily interaction with the appliance. This design choice also contributes to its clean, uninterrupted front panel.

Many users appreciate the simplicity of its digital controls, which allow for precise time setting and power level adjustments. This precision is crucial for achieving optimal results when heating different types of food, from delicate sauces to dense casseroles. The digital clock and timer functions further add to its utility.

When considering the BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7, it’s essential to set expectations based on its specifications. It’s an entry-level microwave in terms of power and capacity, but it delivers exceptional value and performance within those parameters. It serves its purpose admirably for singles, couples, and as a supplementary appliance.

BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Key Features & Specifications

The BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 is packed with features that enhance its usability and efficiency for everyday microwave tasks. Understanding these specifications is key to appreciating its value proposition in the crowded appliance market.

Compact 0.7 Cu.ft Capacity

This microwave offers a 0.7 cubic foot interior, making it incredibly space-efficient. It’s perfectly sized for standard dinner plates, small bowls, mugs, and reheating individual portions without taking up excessive counter space. This capacity is a primary draw for users in smaller living spaces.

700 Watts of Cooking Power

With 700 watts, the BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 provides reliable power for common microwave applications. While not the most powerful on the market, it’s more than adequate for reheating, defrosting, and cooking quick-serve items effectively. It’s important to adjust cooking times accordingly compared to higher-wattage models.

Digital Controls with LED Display

The intuitive digital control panel features an easy-to-read LED display. This setup allows for precise time and power level adjustments, ensuring your food is heated exactly as desired. The clear display also shows the clock and cooking countdown, adding to its user-friendly design.

Pre-Programmed Buttons for Convenience

To simplify daily use, the EM720CB7 includes six pre-programmed settings. These dedicated buttons for Popcorn, Potato, Pizza, Frozen Vegetable, Dinner Plate, and Beverage take the guesswork out of heating common items, providing optimal cooking times at the touch of a button.

Removable Glass Turntable

An essential feature for even heating, the integrated glass turntable rotates food consistently. This ensures that heat is distributed uniformly, eliminating cold spots. The turntable is also removable, making cleanup effortless and allowing for occasional use with larger, non-rotating dishes if necessary.

Push-Button Door Release

The convenient push-button door mechanism provides a smooth and easy way to open the microwave. This design choice contributes to the appliance’s sleek, minimalist front, avoiding the need for an external handle and making it simpler to operate with one hand.

Child Safety Lock

A crucial safety feature, the child safety lock prevents unsupervised operation by young children. This function provides peace of mind for parents and caregivers, ensuring that the microwave is only used when intended. Activating and deactivating the lock is a simple process outlined in the user manual.

Stainless Steel Front with Black Cabinet

The aesthetic appeal of the BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 is enhanced by its modern stainless steel front panel. This finish not only looks sophisticated but is also easy to clean and maintain. The black cabinet provides a classic contrast, making it a stylish addition to any kitchen.

Defrost Settings

The microwave offers both time defrost and weight defrost options, giving users flexibility when thawing frozen foods. These functions are designed to gently and evenly defrost items, preparing them for cooking without inadvertently starting the cooking process.

10 Power Levels

For greater control over cooking, the BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 features 10 distinct power levels. This allows you to adjust the intensity of the microwave energy, which is particularly useful for cooking delicate foods or simmering sauces without overcooking them. It provides versatility for a range of culinary tasks.

These combined features make the BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 a highly functional and user-friendly appliance. It successfully delivers on its promise of providing essential microwave capabilities in a compact and stylish package, living up to the expectations of a versatile kitchen tool.

Pros & Cons

Every product has its strengths and weaknesses, and the BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 is no exception. A balanced look at its advantages and disadvantages helps potential buyers make an informed decision tailored to their specific needs.

Pros of the BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7

Exceptional Compactness

The most significant advantage of the BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 is its small footprint. At 0.7 cubic feet, it’s one of the most compact microwaves available, making it perfect for tiny apartments, dorm rooms, RVs, and small office break rooms where counter space is a luxury. This space-saving design doesn’t compromise on essential functionality.

User-Friendly Operation

With its intuitive digital controls and clear LED display, the EM720CB7 is incredibly easy to use. The pre-programmed settings for popular foods simplify daily tasks, allowing even those less familiar with microwaves to operate it with confidence. The push-button door further enhances ease of access.

Affordable Price Point

Priced competitively, this microwave offers excellent value for money. It provides reliable performance and essential features without a hefty price tag, making it an accessible option for budget-conscious consumers or those needing a secondary heating appliance. Its cost-effectiveness is a major draw.

Stylish Stainless Steel Design

The sleek stainless steel front paired with a black cabinet gives the BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 a modern and sophisticated look. It can easily complement various kitchen aesthetics, adding a touch of elegance without being overly flashy. The finish is also relatively easy to keep clean.

Reliable Child Safety Lock

For households with young children, the integrated child safety lock is an invaluable feature. It prevents accidental operation, offering parents peace of mind and contributing to a safer kitchen environment. This thoughtful addition underscores its practicality for family use.

Consistent Heating for Small Portions

While 700 watts might seem low, it’s perfectly adequate for reheating leftovers, cooking small frozen meals, and preparing beverages. The rotating turntable ensures that heat is distributed evenly, reducing the likelihood of cold spots in individual servings. For its intended use, heating is quite consistent.

Cons of the BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7

Lower Power Output (700W)

The 700-watt power output means that cooking and reheating times may be longer compared to higher-wattage models (e.g., 1000W+). This can be a minor inconvenience for those accustomed to faster cooking, especially for larger or denser food items. Patience is sometimes required.

Limited Interior Capacity

The 0.7 cubic foot capacity, while compact, restricts the size of dishes and food items that can be heated. Larger dinner plates, casserole dishes, or family-sized portions will not fit, making it unsuitable as the primary microwave for larger households or extensive cooking needs. It’s strictly for individual use.

Potential for Uneven Heating on Larger Items

Although the turntable helps, the smaller magnetron and lower power can still lead to uneven heating if items are too large or dense for the given capacity. Users might need to stir or rotate food manually during the heating cycle for optimal results, especially with more substantial dishes.

Noise Level During Operation

Some users report that the BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 can be a bit noisy during operation, particularly when the turntable is spinning or the fan is running. While not excessively loud, it might be noticeable in very quiet environments. This is a common characteristic of many compact microwaves.

Durability Concerns with Push-Button Door

While convenient, some push-button door mechanisms can be prone to wear over time compared to pull-handle designs. Although not a widespread issue, a few users have reported the button feeling less robust after extended use. Regular gentle use should mitigate this concern.

In summary, the BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 shines as a compact, user-friendly, and affordable microwave for specific needs. Its limitations in power and capacity are direct trade-offs for its small size and cost-effectiveness. Users who understand these compromises will find it to be a highly satisfactory appliance.

Who Should Buy the BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7?

The BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 is not a one-size-fits-all solution, but it excels for specific user groups and environments. Understanding its ideal demographic helps potential buyers determine if this compact microwave aligns with their lifestyle and kitchen requirements.

Individuals and Couples

For singles or couples, the 0.7 cubic foot capacity is often perfectly sufficient. It can easily handle reheating leftovers from one or two meals, preparing single servings of frozen dinners, or quickly warming up beverages. Its size aligns well with the cooking habits of smaller households.

Apartment Dwellers and Dorm Residents

Space is a premium in apartments, especially studio units, and dorm rooms. The EM720CB7’s compact dimensions make it an ideal fit for cramped countertops or small kitchenettes. It provides essential microwave functionality without monopolizing valuable surface area, making it a practical choice for urban living.

Office Break Rooms and Small Workspaces

Businesses looking for a microwave for their break room or small office kitchen will find the BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 highly suitable. It’s perfect for employees to quickly heat up their lunch or make a hot beverage, without requiring a large power draw or significant space. Its simplicity makes it ideal for shared use.

Secondary Microwave Users

Even in homes with a larger primary microwave, the EM720CB7 can serve as an excellent secondary appliance. It’s useful for simultaneous heating tasks, perhaps in a different part of the house like a basement rec room, a home office, or a guest suite, offering added convenience.

Budget-Conscious Consumers

Given its affordable price point, the BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 is an attractive option for those on a tight budget. It delivers reliable performance and essential features without breaking the bank, proving that quality and functionality don’t always require a high investment. This makes it an accessible option for many.

Parents Seeking Child Safety Features

The integrated child safety lock is a significant draw for families with young children. This feature provides an extra layer of security, preventing curious little hands from accidentally operating the microwave. It offers peace of mind, knowing that the appliance won’t be misused when adults aren’t present.

Minimalist Kitchen Enthusiasts

For those who prefer a minimalist approach to kitchen design, the sleek and compact nature of the BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 fits right in. Its clean lines and stainless steel finish contribute to an uncluttered aesthetic, appealing to users who value both form and function in their appliances.

Users with Basic Microwave Needs

If your primary use for a microwave involves reheating, defrosting, and warming simple items, then the EM720CB7 is perfectly adequate. It’s not designed for gourmet cooking or elaborate meal preparation, but it excels at the fundamental tasks that most people use a microwave for on a daily basis. It covers all the basics reliably.

Renters and Transient Lifestyles

For individuals who move frequently or are in temporary housing, a compact and lightweight microwave like the BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 is ideal. It’s easy to transport, set up, and doesn’t require a permanent commitment to a large appliance. Its versatility makes it a great companion for a transient lifestyle.

Ultimately, the BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 is a specialized tool that performs its specific functions exceptionally well. It’s a reliable, user-friendly, and space-saving choice for anyone whose heating needs align with its compact size and power output. It’s a smart investment for targeted applications.

For more general information on microwave oven technology, you can visit Wikipedia’s Microwave Oven page.

FAQ about the BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about the BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven, providing detailed answers to help you understand its capabilities and limitations.

Q1: What are the exact dimensions of the BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7?

A1: The exterior dimensions of the BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 are approximately 17.3 inches wide, 13 inches deep, and 10.2 inches high. These compact measurements make it suitable for small countertops and limited spaces, ensuring it fits comfortably without dominating your kitchen.

Q2: Is 700 watts enough power for everyday use?

A2: Yes, 700 watts is generally sufficient for most common microwave tasks, such as reheating leftovers, defrosting small items, and cooking instant meals. While it may take slightly longer than higher-wattage models, it performs these functions effectively and reliably for individual servings.

Q3: Can I cook a full-sized frozen pizza in this microwave?

A3: No, due to its 0.7 cubic foot capacity, the BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 is too small for a full-sized frozen pizza. It can typically accommodate a standard dinner plate, which is around 10-10.5 inches in diameter. For larger items, a bigger microwave would be necessary.

Q4: How do I activate the child safety lock on the BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7?

A4: To activate the child safety lock, typically you press and hold the ‘Stop/Cancel’ button for about three seconds. The display will usually show a lock icon or ‘LOC’ to indicate it’s engaged. To deactivate, repeat the same process. Always refer to the specific user manual for precise instructions.

Q5: Is the turntable removable for cleaning?

A5: Yes, the glass turntable inside the BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 is fully removable. This makes cleaning spills and food debris inside the microwave much easier. It can be washed by hand or often in a dishwasher for convenience.

Q6: Does this microwave have specific settings for different foods?

A6: Yes, the BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 includes six convenient pre-programmed settings. These are designed for common items like Popcorn, Potato, Pizza, Frozen Vegetable, Dinner Plate, and Beverage, allowing for quick and optimized heating with a single touch. These presets simplify daily use.

Q7: How noisy is the BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 during operation?

A7: Most users find the BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 to be of average noise level for a compact microwave. You’ll hear the fan and the turntable operating, which is normal for this type of appliance. It’s generally not considered excessively loud, but noise perception can vary among individuals.

Q8: What kind of warranty does BLACK+DECKER offer for this microwave?

A8: BLACK+DECKER typically offers a one-year limited warranty on their appliances, covering defects in material or workmanship. It’s always best to check the product packaging or the official Black+Decker website for the most current and specific warranty information regarding the EM720CB7 model.

These answers should help address common inquiries and provide a clearer picture of what to expect from the BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7. For further details, consulting the official product manual is always recommended. You can find more information about Black+Decker products on their official website.

Final Verdict

The BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven is an impressive and highly functional appliance that truly earns its place in specific niches. It’s not designed to be a powerhouse for large families or complex culinary endeavors, but it excels remarkably at its intended purpose: providing efficient, compact, and user-friendly microwave heating for smaller needs.

Its strengths lie in its space-saving design, making it a perfect fit for apartments, dorm rooms, small offices, or as a secondary microwave. The intuitive digital controls, combined with handy pre-programmed settings and a robust child safety lock, make it incredibly easy and safe for daily use by a wide range of users.

While the 700 watts of power and 0.7 cubic foot capacity mean you won’t be cooking large Thanksgiving dinners, they are more than adequate for reheating leftovers, preparing single-serving meals, defrosting, and warming beverages. The stainless steel finish adds a touch of modern elegance, ensuring it looks good in any setting.

Considering its affordable price point, the BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 offers exceptional value. It delivers reliable performance, essential features, and a sleek aesthetic without demanding a significant investment. It’s a testament to Black+Decker’s ability to create practical and accessible home solutions.

For anyone prioritizing compactness, ease of use, and affordability for basic microwave tasks, the BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 is an outstanding choice. It’s a smart, practical addition to any kitchen where space is limited and efficiency is key. This microwave truly is worth it for its targeted audience.