BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven Review
Product Overview
If you’re looking for a reliable, compact microwave to handle everyday meals efficiently, the BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven is worth considering. This microwave packs a powerful 700-watt capacity into a sleek stainless steel design with useful features to simplify cooking and reheating. Whether you’re warming up leftovers, popping popcorn, or heating beverages, this model’s pre-programmed buttons and easy-to-read digital display make it a practical addition to your kitchen.
BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable
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Key Takeaways
- Features 10 power levels and pre-programmed buttons for ease of use.
- Compact size fits well in small kitchens, dorm rooms, or offices.
- Child safety lock adds peace of mind for families.
- Limited interior space might not suit larger plates or dishes.
- The push-button door release can feel less sturdy than a handle.
Why You Might Need This Digital Microwave Oven
If your kitchen is short on counter space or you’re seeking a microwave that’s easy to operate and maintain, this BLACK+DECKER model is designed for you. It’s ideal for quick meal prep, reheating, or cooking simple foods without fuss. You might struggle with bulky microwaves that take up too much space or models that lack preset options—this one addresses those issues with its compact frame and convenient pre-programmed cooking buttons. Plus, if you have small children, the safety lock can help keep the microwave secure.
First Impressions: What to Expect
Right out of the box, you’ll notice the microwave’s streamlined stainless-steel exterior and digital display. The compact footprint (measuring about 17.3″ x 13.0″ x 10.2″) keeps it from overwhelming your kitchen counter. Inside, the 10-inch removable glass turntable sits ready for easy cleaning. The push-button to open the door requires a gentle press, which might feel unfamiliar compared to traditional handle designs.
The controls are straightforward with well-labeled buttons for common food items like popcorn, pizza, and frozen vegetables. Setting the timer or adjusting power levels is intuitive thanks to the clear LED panel. The interior’s built-in light helps you monitor your food without opening the door.
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Power | 700 Watts |
| Power Settings | 10 Levels |
| Capacity | 0.7 Cubic Feet |
| Turntable Size | 10 inches (removable glass) |
| Control Panel | Digital LED Display |
| Pre-Programmed Buttons | Popcorn, Potato, Pizza, Frozen Vegetable, Beverage, Dinner Plate |
| Door Type | Push-button release |
| Safety Features | Child safety lock |
| Interior Light | Yes |
| Approved | UL approved |
| Dimensions (WxDxH) | 17.3” x 13.0” x 10.2” |
| Power Supply | 110 Volts |
| Warranty | 1 Year Limited |
User-Friendly Digital Control Panel
Design & Build Quality
The BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 stands out for its sleek stainless steel look that fits well with modern kitchen decor. The exterior has a clean finish, and the compact design complements even tighter spaces like dorm rooms or small apartments.
One feature users appreciate is the push-button door release, which makes accessing the oven straightforward. However, some reviewers have noted that the button is a bit shallow or less solid compared to traditional pull handles, so handling it gently is advised to maintain durability.
The digital control panel offers large, easy-to-read buttons with presets to eliminate guesswork. The LED display is bright and simple to operate. The interior light provides good visibility when you’re keeping an eye on your food.
A customer shared, “The child safety lock gives me confidence because I don’t worry about my kids accidentally opening it. Plus, the popcorn preset actually works well—no burning or undercooking.” This points to thoughtful design elements that boost real usability.
Real-World Performance
In everyday use, this microwave handles routine tasks well. Its 700-watt power cooks or reheats meals quickly without overcooking. The 10 power settings allow tailored cooking for various food items, which you can control through the clear digital panel.
One particularly handy feature is the 30-second express cooking button, perfect for quick warming or a last-minute snack without fuss. The pre-programmed buttons simplify cooking common items like frozen vegetables or potatoes, saving you the hassle of guessing time or power.
The 10-inch glass turntable rotates consistently to heat food evenly, and removing it for cleaning is a breeze. The interior light helps ensure you catch any spills or signs your food is ready.
On the flip side, the 0.7 cubic feet interior may feel cramped if you want to cook large dishes. It fits well for small to medium plates but is less suited for bulky casseroles. The push-button door requires a gentle press, which can take some getting used to.
Overall, this microwave is reliable for typical meal prep or reheating tasks—and the child lock feature is a significant bonus for safety-conscious homes.
Even Heating with 10″ Glass Turntable
What Makes It Stand Out?
Compared to other microwaves in its class, the BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 shines because of its balanced mix of features aimed at convenience and safety. The push-button door release is less common in this category, contributing to a sleek front panel look. Its child safety lock is a notable feature, often missing from budget microwaves, giving you extra confidence around kids.
In contrast, competitors like the Toshiba EM925A5A offer slightly higher wattage at 900W but lack specific child locks or push-button doors. Another rival, the Panasonic NN-SD372S, includes inverter technology for more even cooking, but at the cost of a bulkier frame that demands more counter space.
This model fits well for buyers prioritizing a compact, easy-to-operate microwave with safety features and straightforward presets. While it doesn’t have advanced cooking technologies like inverter power, it covers core microwave needs with user-friendly ease.
Strengths vs. Trade-Offs
| ✅ Strengths | ❌ Trade-Offs |
|---|---|
| Pre-programmed buttons for popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen vegetable, beverage, and dinner plate | Limited interior space (0.7 cu.ft) |
| 700 Watts with 10 power settings, plus clock and kitchen timer | Push-button door release may feel less sturdy |
| Large LED digital display and clear control panel | No advanced inverter cooking tech |
| Child safety lock for added security | Small turntable size may not fit large dishes |
| Removable 10” glass turntable simplifies cleaning | One-year limited warranty |
| Interior light helps monitor cooking | |
| Compact size (17.3” x 13.0” x 10.2”) suits small kitchens |
Compact Stainless Steel Microwave Design
Who Is It For?
This microwave is a great fit for several user types. First, busy individuals or students who need quick and easy heating for meals or snacks will appreciate the straightforward controls and preset buttons. Its compact size makes it perfect for dorm rooms, small apartments, or office kitchens where space is limited.
Families with young children will find the child safety lock especially useful to prevent accidental door openings. The sizable LED display and clear controls also help users who are less familiar with digital microwaves or prefer simple, one-touch options.
Additionally, you might choose this microwave if you need a reliable, no-fuss appliance for reheating leftovers, cooking frozen meals, or preparing snacks without worrying about complicated settings. The push-button door offers a different convenience that some users enjoy once accustomed.
Expert Advice to Maximize Results
To get the most from your BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 microwave, a few tips can enhance your experience:
- Use the pre-programmed buttons to take the guesswork out of cooking common items. This helps avoid under- or overcooking.
- When reheating leftovers, stir or rotate food halfway through cooking for a more even temperature.
- The child safety lock can be activated when the microwave isn’t in use to keep little hands safe.
- Keep the glass turntable clean and properly seated for best rotation and heating.
- Use microwave-safe containers and avoid metal inside to prevent sparks or damage.
- If your food seems unevenly heated, adjust the power level to a lower setting and extend the cooking time.
Expert Tips for Cooking Efficiency
FAQ
Q: What is the capacity of this microwave?
A: It has a 0.7 cubic feet cooking space, suitable for small to medium plates and containers.
Q: How powerful is the microwave?
A: It operates at 700 watts with 10 adjustable power levels, ensuring flexibility for various foods.
Q: Does it have special cooking presets?
A: Yes, it includes buttons for popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen vegetable, beverage, and dinner plate.
Q: Is the microwave child-safe?
A: Yes, it features a child safety lock to prevent accidental operation by young children.
Q: How is the door opened?
A: The door opens via a push-button release, adding to the smooth design.
Q: Does it have an interior light?
A: Yes, the interior light allows easy monitoring of your food as it cooks.
Q: What are the dimensions?
A: It measures approximately 17.3 inches wide, 13.0 inches deep, and 10.2 inches high.
Q: Is the glass turntable removable?
A: Yes, the 10-inch glass turntable is removable for easy cleaning.
Verdict
For those who need a compact, well-designed microwave with user-friendly features, the BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 makes a solid choice. It balances practical cooking presets and safety features with a compact size that fits conveniently in smaller kitchens. Although it offers modest power and limited space, its straightforward controls and child safety lock make it stand out among similar models.
