BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7
Best Ultra-Budget Compact Microwave for Small Spaces
If you need a simple, affordable microwave for a dorm room, office, apartment, or secondary kitchen setup, the BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 remains one of the most popular compact microwaves in 2026. With its ultra-small footprint, beginner-friendly controls, and budget-friendly pricing, it focuses on the essentials without adding unnecessary features.
Quick Verdict
Best For: Students, singles, dorm rooms, offices, and anyone who wants an inexpensive compact microwave for light everyday use.
Pros
- Very affordable price
- Compact, space-saving design
- Simple digital controls with one-touch presets
- Child safety lock included
- Lightweight and easy to move
- Good performance for basic reheating and snacks
- Easy-to-clean interior
Cons
- 700W power means slower heating than 1000W models
- Small 0.7 cu. ft. interior limits plate size
- No sensor cooking or advanced smart features
- Heating can be uneven with larger foods
- Build quality feels basic and lightweight
đź‘Ť Buy It If:
You want a cheap, compact microwave for small spaces and simple daily tasks.
đźš« Skip It If:
You want faster cooking, larger capacity, or premium features. A model like the Toshiba EM131A5C offers noticeably better overall performance.
Under the Hood
Detailed technical specifications of the BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7
| Capacity | 0.7 cu ft. |
| Power Output | 700 Watts |
| Power Levels | 10 |
| Turntable | 10-inch removable glass |
| Controls | Digital LED touch controls |
| Presets | Popcorn, Potato, Pizza, Beverage, Frozen Vegetable, Dinner Plate |
| Defrost | Weight & Time Defrost |
| Extra Features | Express Cook, Add 30 Seconds, Child Lock, Timer, Clock |
| Dimensions | 17.3" Ă— 13.0" Ă— 10.2" |
| Weight | Approx. 22 lbs |
| Colors | Stainless Steel, Black |
Design & Build Quality
The EM720CB7 looks cleaner and more modern than many microwaves in this price range. The stainless steel finish gives it a slightly more premium appearance, while the compact size makes it ideal for small countertops, dorm rooms, studio apartments, or office break rooms.
The push-button door works well, and the control panel is straightforward and easy to understand. Because it's very lightweight, moving or repositioning the microwave is easy.
That said, the build quality is clearly budget-oriented. The exterior plastics and buttons feel lighter and less substantial than mid-range Toshiba or Panasonic models. Still, for the price, the overall construction is perfectly acceptable.
Heating Performance
Comprehensive analysis of the EM720CB7's heating capabilities
Heating Performance8/10
For a compact 700W microwave, performance is respectable for basic daily use. Reheating leftovers, soup, beverages, and snacks reasonably well. Heating is slower compared to 1000W microwaves, so larger meals often require extra time and occasional stirring.
Defrosting8/10
Weight and time defrost options are useful, although manual flipping or rotating food is still recommended for more even thawing.
Everyday Use8.2/10
This microwave is best viewed as a simple reheating and snack machine rather than a serious cooking appliance. Popcorn and frozen snacks cook well with a bit of timing adjustment.
Heating & Cooking Performance
For a compact 700W microwave, performance is respectable for basic daily use.
Reheating
The EM720CB7 handles leftovers, soup, beverages, and snacks reasonably well. Heating is slower compared to 1000W microwaves, so larger meals often require extra time and occasional stirring.
Popcorn & Snacks
The popcorn preset works fairly reliably for standard microwave popcorn bags. Frozen snacks and quick convenience foods also cook well with a bit of timing adjustment.
Defrosting
Weight and time defrost options are useful, although manual flipping or rotating food is still recommended for more even thawing.
Heating Evenness
Heating consistency is average overall. Smaller portions heat evenly enough, but larger dishes may develop hot and cold spots.
This microwave is best viewed as a simple reheating and snack machine rather than a serious cooking appliance.
Ease of Use & Features
One of the biggest strengths of the EM720CB7 is simplicity.
The controls are beginner-friendly, and common functions are easy to access. Features like:
- Express Cook (1–6 minutes)
- Add 30 Seconds
- Child Safety Lock
- Kitchen Timer
- One-touch presets
make everyday operation quick and convenient.
Unlike more expensive models, there's no sensor cooking, inverter technology, or smart auto-adjustment system. However, many users may actually prefer the straightforward interface.
Noise & Everyday Practicality
This microwave operates relatively quietly for a compact budget model. The turntable movement is smooth, and the button tones are not overly loud.
Its biggest advantage is practicality:
- Small footprint
- Lightweight design
- Easy cleaning
- Fits almost anywhere
For dorms, offices, RVs, and small kitchens, the compact size is genuinely useful.
Detailed Performance Scores
Breakdown of performance across different categories
| Category | Score |
|---|---|
| Everyday Reheating | 8.2 / 10 |
| Defrosting | 8.0 / 10 |
| Cooking Speed | 7.4 / 10 |
| Ease of Use | 8.9 / 10 |
| Value for Money | 9.4 / 10 |
| Build Quality | 7.8 / 10 |
User Feedback Summary
What owners are saying about the BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7
Most owners praise the EM720CB7 for:
- Affordable pricing
- Compact size
- Easy controls
- Reliable basic reheating
It's especially popular among:
- Students
- Apartment renters
- Office users
- RV owners
- People needing a secondary microwave
The most common complaints involve:
- Slower cooking speed
- Small interior space
- Occasional uneven heating
Overall, user satisfaction remains strong for an ultra-budget microwave, typically averaging around 4.3–4.5 star ratings across major retailers.
Features Explained
Key features that make the BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 practical for small spaces
Simple Controls
Simple, digital LED touch controls that are easy to understand and use.
Child Lock
Includes a child safety lock for added security in shared spaces.
Compact Design
Clean stainless steel finish with a compact size ideal for small countertops, dorm rooms, studio apartments, or office break rooms.
BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 vs Similar Models
How the EM720CB7 compares to other compact microwave options
| Model | Capacity | Power | Main Features | Best For | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 | 0.7 cu. ft. | 700W | Compact size, simple presets | Ultra-budget small spaces | $50 |
| GE GCST07N1 | 0.7 cu. ft. | 700W | Stainless design, Express Cook | Small modern kitchens | $60-70 |
| Farberware Compact | 0.7–1.1 cu. ft. | 700–1000W | More presets & sizes | Better flexibility | $70-100 |
| Toshiba EM131A5C | 1.2 cu. ft. | 1000W | Sensor cooking, mute function | Best overall upgrade | $80 |
Value for Money
The EM720CB7 offers exceptional value for an ultra-budget microwave focused on simplicity and compact sizing.
Why It's Worth It
You're getting reliable basic performance, easy operation, and a space-saving design—all at an incredibly low price. It's perfect for light daily use in small spaces.
Alternatives to Consider
BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7
Ultra-budget compact choice
Farberware Compact
More presets & sizes
Toshiba EM131A5C
Best upgrade option
FAQs
Is the BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 good for dorm rooms?
Yes—it's one of the best ultra-budget compact microwaves for dorms, offices, and small apartments where space is limited.
How does the heating performance compare to larger microwaves?
It's slower than 1000W models, but performs well for basic reheating and snacks in small portions.
Does it have a child safety lock?
Yes—the EM720CB7 includes a child safety lock for added security.
Final Verdict
The BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 is a dependable ultra-budget microwave that focuses on simplicity, compact sizing, and affordability. It doesn't try to compete with premium inverter or sensor-cooking models, but for light daily use, it performs its job well.
Final Recommendation
If your priorities are low cost, small size, and easy operation, this is one of the better compact microwaves available in 2026.