As far as microwaves go, most of us do not put much thought towards shopping between brands and across features; we want it to warm food up for a reasonable price and that is about it. What we never stop to consider, is how the features of newer microwave ovens can be of more use than we ever thought. Technology is ever evolving, and that applies to microwaves as well. Here, we will be comparing the features and applications of two different brands, including pricing and safety.
Key Features
As far as sizing, both the TOSHIBA EM131A5C-SS and the BLACK DECKER EM720CB7 are about the size you would imagine a microwave to be, though the TOSHIBA has a higher capacity of 1.2 cubic feet (equivalent to approximately 40 liters), whereas the BLACK DECKER has a capacity of 0.7 cubic feet (equivalent to approximately 20 liters). What does this mean? The TOSHIBA could fit a 12 inch pizza in it, the BLACK DECKER cannot. We chose to mention this, as we saw the question being asked by a customer on the BLACK DECKER official website, and it is useful information either way! Though, the size of the TOSHIBA could be off-putting to those with smaller kitchen space.
In terms of power output, the TOSHIBA has a wattage of 1100, while the BLACK DECKER has 700 watts. However, both have the option of 10 power settings. Does the higher wattage matter? Absolutely. It equates to faster cooking times, as well as a more varied range of power settings. Does this affect pricing? Also yes, but not to the point where it matters in comparison.
The different power settings, as well as functions, are where it starts to become about buying the better microwave, and less about saving money on something that “has one job”. A microwave can do so much more than heat up food: it could potentially replace a kitchen stove entirely, and here is how.
The BLACK DECKER offers a defrost function that can be programmed according to weight or time, as well as six other modes that can cook foods such as pizza or popcorn to perfection by automatically adjusting cooking time and power level. The TOSHIBA also boasts the custom defrost function and six auto menus; however, it adds more. The TOSHIBA offers the two functions of “soften” and “melt”. What does that mean? Everything, if you’re an avid baking enthusiast! It has seven auto menus that soften or melt according to the weight/portion of the butter, or chocolate, or cheese, or whatever! During testing, it proved the validity of this function, and the many applications of it!
The TOSHIBA also boasts its ECO Mode, which minimizes 50% standby power, lowering cost and protecting the planet! Can it get any better? Yes. The TOSHIBA comes with an incredible feature: a mute button. Silence that beeping when it becomes too much to handle, or when it could wake up your toddler that finally fell asleep.
Both products are made of easy to clean materials and are quality controlled and safety approved.
The TOSHIBA is excellent at defrosting without cooking, while the BLACK DECKER can defrost decently, but not up to the same standard. Both models excel at heating evenly, which is not rare, but definitely preferred by anyone using a microwave. There is nothing worse than trying to warm up a bowl of leftovers and having the centre frozen stiff while the bowl is hot enough to scorch your fingers!
Should I buy it?
While the TOSHIBA is larger and has more features, it is pricier, and although that price is reasonable, it may not be worth it for everyone. For some people, a microwave is simply needed to warm up leftovers and cook the occasional bag of popcorn for those family movie nights. For others, it is used more often than the stove and therefore needs to do everything the stove does!
If you are looking for the simplest option but still with an attractive design and some extra features, then the BLACK DECKER is the way to go. Its quality is comparable to that of the TOSHIBA, and it is cheaper, but will still do everything you need it to do.
If you are after something slightly more advanced, and you are willing to spend just that much more money, then the TOSHIBA is for you. Especially if you are someone that dabbles in a bit of master cooking!
Both products have a child-lock and are 100% family friendly, so don’t worry about going for the cheaper option and having your kitchen blown up!
Social media’s opinion
Of course, you do not have to take my word for everything! We have done our research as well, and we’ve compiled the data into just a few sentences for you.
Facebook reviews seem to have a liking for the BLACK DECKER due to its pricing, quality, and features. These reviews were mostly posted by family accounts and students that had just recently moved away from home. The only negative thing to be mentioned, is that a handful of reviews stated that the microwave draws too much power.
Reddit favors the TOSHIBA. There, it is praised for its mute function, as well as its soften or melt function. Pricing only mattered to these reviewers in the sense that they were shocked at how well priced it is when considering its features. The price is reasonable, but that metric is of course relative to income, needs, and lifestyle.
- 【Pre-programmed sensor menu】 for optimum heating of popular foods like pizza, potatoes, veggies and more;...
- 【Stylish Appearance with Large Interior, fitting a 12inch Pizza】Black exterior, 20.51 x 17.14 x 12.83 inch...
- 【Other Functions】1100 watts with 10 power settings, defrost by time&weight, clock, and kitchen timer, One...
Last update on 2024-04-30 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Conclusion
Both microwaves are wonderful in their own right but put them down next to each other and the TOSHIBA wins the cost-quality ratio. If you already own and use a kitchen stove, then the BLACK DECKER is probably the way to go.
Cons of purchasing the TOSHIBA would be its size and cost. It may not be suitable for a kitchen of smaller design, therefore making the BLACK DECKER a favorite of students and bachelors.
- Pre-programmed buttons for popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen vegetable, beverage and dinner plate.Voltage :...
- 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”...
Last update on 2024-04-30 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
