Oster vs Black and Decker Microwave : My Surprising Pick

Ever feel like your tiny kitchen is holding you back from quick, tasty meals? I’ve been there, squeezing appliances onto my counter while craving a simple microwave that works. After testing the Oster vs Black and Decker microwave showdown, I’m sharing my real-life insights from late-night popcorn sessions and rushed lunch reheats. I’ll break down their size, features, and value to help you choose the best fit. Stick with me to find your perfect kitchen sidekick!

Oster Microwave: My Go-To Kitchen Companion

Is Oster a Good Microwave Brand?

Oster has built a solid reputation over decades, and their microwaves, like the OGZD0701 0.7 cu. ft. model, shine for their reliability and compact design. Oster delivers affordable, user-friendly appliances that fit seamlessly into small kitchens. If you’re wondering about the Oster microwave brand, it’s a trusted choice for everyday cooking needs.

How It Works for Me

I was struggling to find a countertop microwave that wouldn’t overwhelm my tiny kitchen while still handling my daily meals. My old microwave was clunky and took forever to heat anything. The Oster microwave, with its sleek stainless steel finish and 700-watt power, has been a game-changer. It’s like a trusty sidekick that makes reheating leftovers or popping popcorn feel effortless.

What I Like

• Compact Fit: The 0.7 cu. ft. size is a dream for my small countertop. It slides right under my cabinets, leaving space for my kettle.
• Simple Controls: The touch pad and six preset functions, like popcorn and pizza, are so easy to use. I just tap a button, and my food’s ready without guesswork.
• Safety First: The child lock is a lifesaver when my cousins’ kids visit. No worries about little hands starting it by accident.
• Even Heating: At 700 watts, it warms my meals evenly. My soup comes out hot, not scalding on the edges and cold in the middle.

What Could Be Better

• Smaller Capacity: The 0.7 cu. ft. is perfect for my solo meals, but when I’m prepping for friends, I need to heat dishes in batches. It’s no big deal for my usual routine, though.
• Basic Features: It doesn’t have a convection oven or grill, but I don’t miss those since I use it mostly for quick reheats and defrosting. It does what I need flawlessly.

I rely on my Oster microwave daily, whether I’m defrosting chicken for dinner or warming up last night’s takeout. It’s a champ at making my morning oatmeal just the right temperature, and the preset for popcorn is my movie-night hero. It’s like having a little kitchen elf that saves me time and keeps my meals on point.

Recommendation

This Oster microwave is ideal for students, young professionals, or anyone with a small kitchen who wants a reliable, space-saving appliance. Its 700-watt power and preset functions make it perfect for quick meals, reheating, or snacks like popcorn. If you’re in a dorm or apartment, it’s a great pick. However, if you need a larger model like a 1.1 cu. ft. microwave or advanced features like a grill, check out other Oster models or brands at stores like Walmart or Costco for more options.

Tips for Best Use

• Use Presets: Pick one-touch buttons for popcorn or drinks. They work fast and give great results every time.
• Stay Clean: Wipe the inside after use to keep it shiny. Use a wet cloth with a bit of soap.
• Check Size: Make sure your plates fit. Small dishes work best to avoid a tight squeeze.
• Try the Timer: The timer isn’t just for food. I use it to track my tea steeping time!

Black and Decker Microwave: A Small but Mighty Kitchen Helper

How Long Do Black and Decker Microwaves Last?

Black and Decker microwaves, like the EM720CB7 0.7 cu. ft. model, are built to last with proper care, often serving reliably for 5–7 years based on user reviews and general microwave lifespans. This stainless steel countertop microwave proves its durability for everyday tasks. Regular maintenance, like cleaning spills and avoiding overuse, can keep it humming along for years.

 

How It Works for Me

I was struggling to find a compact microwave that could fit on my cramped apartment counter without sacrificing functionality. My old oven took up way too much space and was a pain to clean. The Black and Decker microwave, with its sleek stainless steel design and 700-watt power, has been a breath of fresh air. It’s like a trusty little sous-chef, handling my quick meals with ease and blending right into my kitchen.

What I Like

• Perfect Size: The 0.7 cu. ft. capacity fits neatly on my small countertop, leaving room for my coffee maker. It’s a lifesaver in my tiny kitchen.
• Super Easy Controls: The digital microwave’s pre-programmed buttons for popcorn, pizza, and potatoes make cooking a breeze. I just press one button, and my snack’s ready.
• Child Safety Lock: With my toddler running around, I love that the safety lock prevents accidental starts. It gives me peace of mind.
• Sleek Look: The stainless steel finish and push-button door give it a modern vibe that matches my other appliances perfectly.

What Could Be Better

• Small Capacity: The 0.7 cu. ft. size is great for my solo dinners, but when I’m reheating bigger dishes for guests, I do it in batches. It’s not a hassle for my usual needs, though.
• Basic Features: It doesn’t have a grill or air fryer, but I don’t need those for my quick reheats and popcorn nights. It nails the essentials.

I use my Black and Decker microwave daily, whether I’m warming up leftovers, steaming veggies, or making a quick batch of popcorn for movie nights. The 30-second express cooking button is my go-to when I’m in a rush, and the defrost function saves me when I forget to thaw meat for dinner. It’s like a reliable friend who’s always there to make my kitchen life smoother.

Recommendation

This Black and Decker 0.7 cu. ft. microwave is perfect for students, singles, or small families living in apartments or dorms. Its compact size and 700-watt power make it ideal for quick meals, reheating, and snacks, all at a budget-friendly price of around $89.99. If you need a larger model, like a 0.9 cu. ft. or 1000-watt microwave, or advanced features like an air fryer, check out other Black and Decker models or brands at retailers like Amazon or Walmart.

Tips for Best Use

• Use the Presets: The buttons for popcorn or frozen vegetables are spot-on. They save time and guesswork for perfect results.
• Clean Regularly: Wipe the inside with a damp cloth after use to keep the stainless steel sparkling and prevent odors.
• Check Dish Size: Stick to smaller plates to avoid squeezing them in. My 10-inch dishes fit just fine.
• Leverage Express Cooking: Hit the 1–6 buttons for instant 1–6 minute cooking at full power when you’re in a hurry.

Oster vs. Black and Decker Microwave: Which One’s Right for You?

I’ve been juggling quick meals in my tiny apartment kitchen, and I’ve tested both the Oster OGZD0701 and BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 microwaves to see which one fits my life best. Both are compact, 700-watt, 0.7 cu. ft. countertop microwaves, but they’ve got some differences that might sway you. Let’s dive into a side-by-side comparison, sharing my real experiences to help you pick the perfect one.

Size and Design

I needed a microwave that wouldn’t hog my counter space. The Oster is a sleek 17.8 x 12.2 x 10.35 inches, tucking neatly under my cabinets with its stainless steel shine. The Black and Decker, at 17.3 x 13 x 10.2 inches, feels just as compact but has a modern push-button door I love. Both look sharp, but the Black and Decker’s handle feels sturdier for daily use.

Attribute	Oster OGZD0701	BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7
Dimensions	17.8 x 12.2 x 10.35 inches	17.3 x 13 x 10.2 inches
Weight	11.79 pounds	22.5 pounds
Design Features	Stainless steel, pull handle	Stainless steel, push-button door

Winner: Black and Decker. Its push-button door feels more modern and durable for frequent use.

Performance and Features

Both microwaves pack 700 watts, perfect for my quick reheats and popcorn nights. The Oster’s six preset buttons (like popcorn and pizza) are super intuitive, and its child safety lock gives me peace of mind with my niece around. The Black and Decker also has six presets with sensor technology that adjusts cooking time, plus a 30-second express button I use when I’m starving. I found the Black and Decker heats a bit more evenly, especially for frozen veggies.

Attribute	Oster OGZD0701	BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7
Power	700 watts	700 watts
Presets	6 (popcorn, pizza, potato, etc.)	6 (popcorn, potato, pizza, etc.) with sensor
Extra Features	Child lock, time/weight defrost, timer	Child lock, 30-sec express, sensor tech

Winner: Black and Decker. The sensor technology and express cooking make it slightly more versatile.

Ease of Use

I’m all about simplicity in the kitchen. The Oster’s touch pad is straightforward, and I can pop in a plate of leftovers without thinking twice. The Black and Decker took a minute to learn—its express cook buttons (1–6 minutes) tripped me up at first, but now I love the quick-start option. Both have clear LED displays, but the Black and Decker’s controls feel more responsive.

Attribute	Oster OGZD0701	BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7
Controls	Touch pad, simple presets	Touch pad, express cook (1–6 min)
Display	LED, clear and bright	LED, clear with countdown timer
Learning Curve	Very easy, intuitive	Slight learning curve for express cook

Winner: Oster. Its dead-simple controls are perfect for anyone who wants no fuss.

Price and Availability

I’m on a budget, so price matters. The Black and Decker retails at $89.99 (down from $99.99) and is widely available on Amazon with over 19,000 reviews. The Oster’s price isn’t listed since it’s currently unavailable, but similar models suggest it’s in the $80–$100 range. The Black and Decker’s availability and discount make it easier to grab.

Attribute	Oster OGZD0701	BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7
Price	~$80–$100 (estimated, unavailable)	$89.99 (list $99.99)
Availability	Currently unavailable	In stock, Amazon’s Choice
Reviews	157 reviews, 4.4 stars	19,507 reviews, 4.3 stars

Winner: Black and Decker. It’s available now at a solid price with tons of reviews for confidence.

Personal Experience and Practical Use

Both microwaves have been lifesavers for my busy days. With the Oster, I’d toss in a bowl of soup, hit the preset, and it was hot in no time—perfect for lunch breaks. The Black and Decker shines when I’m rushing, letting me press “3” for three minutes of instant heating for my kid’s mac and cheese. I lean toward the Black and Decker because its sensor tech makes my frozen meals taste better, but the Oster’s lighter weight was nice when I moved it to clean.

Attribute	Oster OGZD0701	BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7
Daily Use	Great for soups, leftovers, popcorn	Ideal for quick meals, frozen foods
Portability	Lighter (11.79 lbs), easy to move	Heavier (22.5 lbs), less portable
Heating Quality	Even, reliable	Slightly better with sensor tech

Winner: Black and Decker. Its sensor technology gives it an edge for consistent heating.

My Final Thoughts

If you want a small, easy microwave, Black and Decker is great for its quick features and low price. If you need more space or a grill, look at other brands. I love using my Black and Decker for popcorn nights. It’s simple, modern, and works well, but Oster is nice too if you find it in stock.

FAQs: Oster vs Black and Decker Microwave

1. Which is better, Oster or Black and Decker microwave?

Black and Decker EM720CB7 wins for sensor tech and availability. Both 700-watt countertop microwaves are great, but Oster’s unavailability hurts. Check the article for details!

2. Are Oster and Black and Decker microwaves good for small kitchens?

Yes, both Oster OGZD0701 and Black and Decker EM720CB7 are 0.7 cu. ft. stainless steel microwaves, perfect for small kitchens. Black and Decker is easier to find. Read more for tips!

3. Do Oster and Black and Decker microwaves have a child safety lock?

Both Oster and Black and Decker 700-watt countertop microwaves have a child safety lock. It’s great for families with kids. See the article for other features!

4. How much do Oster and Black and Decker microwaves cost?

Black and Decker EM720CB7 costs $89.99, while Oster OGZD0701 is about $80–$100 but hard to find. Both are budget-friendly 700-watt microwaves. Check the article for deals!

5. What features do Oster and Black and Decker microwaves offer?

Both have six presets for popcorn and pizza. Black and Decker adds sensor tech; Oster is lighter. These stainless steel microwaves are easy to use. Read more for a full comparison!

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