Choosing a microwave used to be simple, but today’s market is flooded with "smart" sensors and varying wattages that make a $90 purchase feel like a major investment. I’ve spent a lot of time looking at how these two specific models the Toshiba EM131A5C-SS vs BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 stack up against each other.
The confusion usually stems from the size-to-power ratio. One is a heavy-duty countertop staple, while the other is a compact space-saver. If you’re staring at your kitchen counter wondering if you need raw power or more prep space, you aren't alone.
In this comparison, I’ll break down my hands-on observations regarding their heating consistency, noise levels, and which one actually fits a full-sized dinner plate without hitting the sides.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | Toshiba EM131A5C-SS | BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 |
| Price Range | Mid-Range ($130–$160) | Budget-Friendly ($80–$100) |
| Capacity | 1.2 Cu. Ft. | 0.7 Cu. Ft. |
| Wattage | 1100 Watts | 700 Watts |
| Best For | Families and daily cooking | Dorms, offices, and small apartments |
| Takeaway | High power with a "Smart Sensor." | Reliable, basic, and very compact. |
About the Toshiba EM131A5C-SS
Credit: Amazon
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Toshiba has pivoted from general electronics to becoming a dominant force in the kitchen appliance space. The EM131A5C-SS is designed as a "workhorse" microwave. It features a Smart Sensor, which monitors the steam produced by food to adjust cooking time automatically.
It’s built for people who actually cook in their microwaves defrosting large meats, steaming vegetables, or reheating dense casseroles rather than just popping corn or heating coffee.
About the BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7
BLACK+DECKER is a household name synonymous with utility and value. The EM720CB7 is their answer to the "small kitchen" problem. It’s a 700-watt unit that prioritizes a tiny footprint over raw speed. This isn't the machine you buy to cook a Thanksgiving side dish; it’s the one you buy because you have exactly 18 inches of counter space and you need something reliable for reheating leftovers or a quick bowl of oatmeal.
Credit: Amazon
Feature-by-Feature Comparison
| Feature | Toshiba EM131A5C-SS | BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 |
| Design | Stainless Steel, modern aesthetic. | Classic compact look, fits anywhere. |
| Size/Footprint | 20.5" x 17.1" x 12.8" (Large) | 17.3” x 13.0” x 10.2” (Very Small) |
| Sensor Cooking | Yes (excellent for reheating) | No (manual time entry) |
| Noise Level | Quiet (includes a "Mute" button) | Average (standard hum) |
| Turntable | 12.4 inches | 10 inches |
Real-World Performance Comparison
| Performance Metric | Toshiba EM131A5C-SS (1100W) | BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 (700W) |
| Heating Speed (Soup) | Fast: Steaming hot in ~90 seconds. | Slower: Takes nearly 3 minutes for the same result. |
| Cooking Logic | Smart Sensor: Automatically detects steam and stops when ready. | Manual/Timer: Relies on you to guess the time and check for heat. |
| Consistency | Even: Rarely creates "lava edges" with a frozen center. | Hands-on: Requires stirring halfway through to avoid cold spots. |
| User Experience | Feature-Rich: Includes a Mute button and a large 12.4" turntable. | Simple & Sturdy: Reliable push-button door and intuitive interface. |
| Ideal Task | Defrosting meats or cooking full meals. | Reheating coffee, popcorn, or small snacks. |
Pros & Cons
Toshiba EM131A5C-SS
| Pros | Cons |
| Smart Sensor prevents overcooking | Large footprint takes up counter space |
| Mute function (no more annoying beeps) | More expensive than basic models |
| Easy-to-clean coating inside | Power cord is somewhat short |
BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7
| Pros | Cons |
| Extremely affordable | 700W is slow for thick/frozen foods |
| Fits in the tightest of spaces | Cannot fit large dinner plates or platters |
| Lightweight and easy to move | Lacks advanced "sensor" features |
Price vs. Value Analysis
| Factor | Toshiba (Value) | BLACK+DECKER (Value) |
| Longevity | High; built for heavy daily use. | Moderate; great for occasional use. |
| Utility | Can replace some oven functions. | Purely for reheating/quick snacks. |
| ROI | Better for families (saves time). | Better for students/renters (saves money). |
Who Should Choose Which Product?
Choose the Toshiba EM131A5C-SS if...
- You have a family or cook for more than two people.
- You hate the "beep" sound (the Mute function is a lifesaver).
- You want food to heat evenly without constant monitoring.
Choose the BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 if...
- You live in a studio apartment, dorm, or tiny house.
- Your microwave usage is limited to coffee, popcorn, and small bowls.
- You are on a strict budget under $100.
Common Concerns & Deal-Breakers
- Noise: Both units are relatively quiet, but the Toshiba allows you to turn off all sound entirely. If you have a sleeping baby or roommates, this is a major "pro."
- The "Plate Test": A standard 11 or 12-inch dinner plate fits comfortably in the Toshiba. In the BLACK+DECKER, a 12-inch plate may actually hit the walls or prevent the turntable from spinning. Measure your plates!
- Cleaning: The Toshiba features an "Easy Clean" interior that resists stains. The BLACK+DECKER is standard painted metal; it cleans fine, but you’ll need to wipe spills immediately to prevent baked-on messes.
Final Verdict
If you have the counter space and an extra $50, the Toshiba EM131A5C-SS is the superior machine. The 1100W power and sensor technology simply provide a better eating experience—no more "hot plate, cold food" syndrome.
However, the BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 remains the king of the "budget-compact" category. It does exactly what it promises: it heats things up while taking up as little room as possible.
FAQs for Toshiba EM131A5C-SS vs. BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7
Can the Toshiba fit a large frozen pizza?
A standard 12-inch frozen pizza will fit in the Toshiba, but it will not fit in the BLACK+DECKER.
Does the BLACK+DECKER have a "Silent Mode"?
No, the BLACK+DECKER will beep when the timer finishes and cannot be muted.
Is 700 watts enough for a microwave?
It is enough for basic tasks, but keep in mind that most microwave meal instructions are written for 1100W ovens, so you will need to add about 50-80% more cooking time.
Which one is easier for seniors to use?
The BLACK+DECKER is very straightforward with large buttons, but the Toshiba’s door handle is often easier to pull than some push-button models, which can be stiff.