Emerson Retro Compact Microwave – In-Depth Review

Key Features That Stand Out

The Emerson MWR7020BL truly shines with its thoughtful combination of design and functionality. Here are the most impressive features that set it apart:

• Versatile cooking with 5 power levels: Tailor your cooking experience precisely, whether you’re gently thawing delicate items or quickly reheating leftovers. This flexibility ensures optimal results for a wide variety of foods.
• Effortless meal prep with 8 pre-programmed settings: Take the guesswork out of cooking common dishes. Select from the 8 auto menus for popcorn, potatoes, and more, and let the microwave handle the timing and power levels.
• Stylish chromed handle and control button for a vintage look: This microwave isn’t just functional; it’s a statement piece. The retro design, complete with a sleek chromed handle and buttons, adds a touch of timeless elegance to any kitchen countertop.
• Quick heating with express and defrost functions: Save time with the convenient express cook feature for instant heating, and the efficient defrost option to bring frozen foods to room temperature quickly and evenly.
• Convenient LED display and digital clock: Easily monitor your cooking progress and keep track of the time with the clear and readable LED display, which also features a digital clock for added utility.

Emerson MWR7020BL Retro Compact Countertop Microwave Oven with Button Control, LED Display, 700W 5 Power Levels, 8 Auto Menus, Glass Turntable and Child Safe Lock, 0.7, Thunderbird Blue

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What We Like

The Emerson MWR7020BL Retro Compact Countertop Microwave Oven with Button Control, LED Display, 700W 5 Power Levels, 8 Auto Menus, Glass Turntable and Child Safe Lock, 0.7, Thunderbird Blue offers a compelling package for those seeking both style and substance. We particularly appreciate:

• The charming retro aesthetic that adds a unique visual appeal to any kitchen setting, a welcome departure from generic appliance designs.
• The inclusion of 8 pre-programmed settings, which significantly simplify the cooking of everyday meals and snacks, removing the need for constant manual adjustments.
• The straightforward button control system, which makes operating the microwave intuitive and easy, even for less tech-savvy users.
• The practical 700W power output, which is sufficient for most common reheating and cooking tasks, providing a good balance between speed and even cooking.
• The safety feature of a Child Safe Lock, offering peace of mind for households with young children.

Performance Analysis

The Emerson MWR7020BL delivers reliable performance for its 0.7 cubic foot capacity and 700W output. The 5 power levels allow for a decent range of cooking control, from defrosting frozen items to simmering sauces. The 8 auto menus provide convenient presets for common foods like popcorn, potatoes, and beverages, taking the guesswork out of common tasks. The express cook function is handy for quick reheating without needing to set a specific time. The glass turntable ensures even cooking by rotating food, and it’s easily removable for cleaning. While 700W is adequate for basic microwave needs, it might take slightly longer to cook or reheat larger quantities compared to higher-wattage models. The LED display is clear and functional, providing easy monitoring of cooking time and the digital clock. The child-safe lock is a crucial addition for safety in family environments.

Best For

This microwave is an excellent choice for a variety of users and situations:

• Apartment dwellers and dorm residents: Its compact 0.7 cubic foot size is ideal for kitchens with limited counter space.
• Individuals seeking retro kitchen decor: The distinct Thunderbird Blue color and vintage design make it a stylish addition to themed kitchens.
• Beginner cooks or those who prefer simplicity: The 8 auto menus and straightforward button controls make it very user-friendly.
• Anyone needing basic microwave functions: For reheating leftovers, making popcorn, or heating up quick meals, this microwave performs reliably.
• Households with young children: The integrated child-safe lock provides an important layer of security.

Buying Guide

When considering a compact microwave like the Emerson MWR7020BL, keep these factors in mind to ensure it meets your needs.

Key Features to Look For

When purchasing a microwave, especially one with a retro design, it’s essential to look for features that balance style with functionality. The Emerson MWR7020BL excels here by offering:

• Adjustable Power Levels: The 5 power levels provided by this model allow for precise control over cooking, from gentle thawing to intense heating, ensuring better results for various food types.
• Pre-programmed Settings: Having 8 auto menus simplifies common cooking tasks, eliminating the need for manual time and power adjustments and making operation quick and easy.
• User-Friendly Controls: Look for intuitive button controls and a clear display. The LED display and digital clock on this Emerson microwave are excellent examples of this.
• Safety Features: A Child Safe Lock is a critical feature for households with children, preventing accidental operation and ensuring safety.
• Convenience Features: Functions like express cooking and defrosting add significant value to everyday use.

Important Materials

While specific material breakdowns beyond the glass turntable and chrome accents aren’t detailed, typical microwave construction includes durable plastics and metal. The glass turntable is a standard and desirable feature for even cooking and ease of cleaning. The chrome accents on the handle and buttons contribute to the retro aesthetic and are generally easy to wipe down.

Essential Factors to Consider

• Size and Capacity: The 0.7 cubic foot capacity is compact, making it suitable for small kitchens, but ensure it can accommodate the dishes and containers you commonly use.
• Wattage: 700W is standard for compact microwaves. While sufficient for basic needs, higher wattage models cook faster, which may be a consideration if you frequently prepare larger meals.
• Design and Aesthetics: If you’re drawn to this model, ensure the Thunderbird Blue color and retro styling fit your kitchen’s overall decor.
• Ease of Use: The button controls and auto menus are designed for simplicity, which is a significant advantage for many users.

Budget Planning

Compact microwaves like the Emerson MWR7020BL typically fall into an affordable price range. This model offers a good balance of features and a unique design, making it a strong value proposition for its category. Prices can fluctuate, but expect it to be a cost-effective solution for adding microwave functionality with a stylish flair.

When to Buy

Microwaves are essential appliances, so there’s rarely a “wrong” time to buy. However, you might find better deals during major sale events like Black Friday, Cyber Monday, or holiday sales. If your current microwave is failing, it’s best to replace it promptly rather than waiting for a sale, especially if you rely on it for daily meal preparation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the dimensions of the Emerson MWR7020BL microwave?

While exact external dimensions are not provided in the product features, its 0.7 cubic foot capacity indicates it is a compact model designed to fit on most countertops without taking up excessive space.

How does the 700W power output compare to other microwaves?

A 700W microwave is standard for compact models. It’s sufficient for most everyday reheating and cooking tasks but may be slower than higher-wattage microwaves (e.g., 900W or 1000W) for larger quantities or more complex cooking.

Are the auto menus difficult to use?

No, the 8 auto menus are designed for effortless meal preparation. You simply select the appropriate setting for your dish, and the microwave handles the cooking time and power level.

Is the glass turntable dishwasher safe?

The glass turntable is removable and typically easy to clean by hand. While specifics for this model aren’t detailed, most glass turntables are safe for top-rack dishwasher cleaning, but handwashing is often recommended to preserve their longevity.

How do I activate the Child Safe Lock?

The product description mentions a Child Safe Lock as a feature, indicating that there is a mechanism, likely a button combination or a specific setting, to engage and disengage this safety feature for peace of mind.

What is the benefit of having 5 power levels?

Having 5 power levels provides greater control over the cooking process. You can adjust the intensity from high for rapid heating to low for simmering or defrosting, ensuring more precise and even results for different types of food.

Final Thoughts

The Emerson MWR7020BL Retro Compact Countertop Microwave Oven with Button Control, LED Display, 700W 5 Power Levels, 8 Auto Menus, Glass Turntable and Child Safe Lock, 0.7, Thunderbird Blue is a fantastic choice for anyone looking to combine quirky vintage style with practical, everyday microwave functionality. Its compact size makes it ideal for smaller kitchens, while the 8 auto menus and 5 power levels offer versatility for various cooking needs. The charming Thunderbird Blue color and retro details, like the chromed handle, add a unique aesthetic that’s sure to be a conversation starter. While its 700W power is standard for its class, it efficiently handles reheating, defrosting, and basic cooking. The inclusion of a child-safe lock is a valuable safety feature. If you’re seeking a microwave that’s as stylish as it is functional and won’t take up too much precious counter space, the Emerson MWR7020BL is definitely worth considering.