Review of the Black+Decker CG800B Mini Food Processor and Coffee Grinder

Description

Compact Design and Space-Saving Features

The Black+Decker CG800B Spacemaker really lives up to its name when it comes to saving space in a crowded kitchen. As someone constantly battling for counter space, I found its under-cabinet mounting option a game-changer. It’s designed to free up your workspace while still being within easy reach, and the compact dimensions of 9.65 x 8.07 x 5.51 inches make it unobtrusive. Once installed, it blends seamlessly into the kitchen setup. However, the mounting process isn’t exactly effortless. I had to fiddle with the positioning to get it securely attached, but the result was worth the effort.

Dual Functionality for Everyday Use

This product isn’t just a one-trick pony; it’s both a mini food processor and a coffee grinder. The inclusion of two stainless-steel blades—one meant for grinding coffee beans and the other for chopping food—adds versatility. I tested it by grinding coffee beans in the morning and later used it to chop vegetables for dinner prep. The pulse button works beautifully for controlling the texture, whether you want precise coffee grounds or coarsely chopped onions. While it’s not designed for heavy-duty processing, it handles small tasks well, saving me from dragging out a larger appliance.

Ease of Use and Cleanup

The controls on this machine are straightforward, which is something I value in kitchen gadgets. Just load it up, press the pulse button, and you’re good to go. The transparent plastic containers make it easy to monitor progress, and the storage lid is a nice touch if you need to keep your mixture stored for later. Cleaning, though, is a mixed bag. The chopping blade and container are simple to wash by hand, but the nooks and crannies of the lid can trap small bits of food, which can be a bit annoying.

Highlights

• Space-saving under-cabinet design
• Dual functionality for grinding and chopping
• Easy-to-use pulse button for control
• Transparent containers for monitoring

Areas for Improvement

• The mounting process could be more user-friendly.
• Some parts, like the lid, are tricky to clean thoroughly.
• Not ideal for processing large quantities.

Performance and Practicality

During my testing, the grinding blade performed exceptionally well with coffee beans, leaving me with a cup of fresh, aromatic coffee. The chopping blade, on the other hand, worked fine for soft vegetables but struggled a bit with harder items like carrots. One feature that stood out was the cord storage, which prevents the dreaded cord clutter. It’s little details like this that make daily use more enjoyable. However, I wouldn’t recommend this for anyone looking for a high-capacity food processor. Its 3.4-pound weight makes it easy to handle, but it’s clearly meant for smaller jobs.

Rival Brands

When comparing this product to similar kitchen gadgets, a few competitors come to mind, like the Cuisinart Mini-Prep Plus and the Hamilton Beach Fresh Grind grinder. The Cuisinart excels in food processing power, making it a better option for those who need to process larger quantities. However, it lacks Black+Decker’s space-saving under-cabinet mounting. The Hamilton Beach grinder, on the other hand, is more affordable but doesn’t offer the same dual functionality. What sets this product apart is its ability to combine both chopping and grinding in one compact unit.

Affordable Quality

Considering its dual-purpose design and compact build, this product offers solid cost-efficiency. While it doesn’t have the raw power or capacity of larger appliances, it’s a smart choice for small kitchens or for those who only need to process smaller amounts. Its price point makes sense for what it delivers, though I’d say the added hassle of mounting and cleaning should be weighed when deciding if it’s right for you. However, for someone like me who values space and efficiency, it feels like a smart spending decision.

Additional information