BLACK+DECKER Mini Food Processor and Coffee Grinder CG800B Review Reveals Surprising Versatility
BLACK+DECKER Mini Food Processor and Coffee Grinder CG800B Review Reveals Surprising Versatility
- Versatile design combines a mini food processor and coffee grinder in one compact unit.
- Pulse function provides precise control over chopping and grinding consistency.
- Under-cabinet mounting option helps save valuable counter space in busy kitchens.
- Two stainless-steel blades ensure efficient grinding of coffee beans and chopping of food.
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Description
Compact and Functional Design for Small Kitchens
The BLACK+DECKER CG800B Spacemaker mini food processor and coffee grinder truly shines when space is at a premium. Its compact footprint, measuring roughly 5-1/2 by 8 by 9-3/5 inches, took up surprisingly little room on my cluttered kitchen counter. The option to mount it under a cabinet was a clever touch, freeing up even more surface area. The design is sleek with a classic black finish that blends well with most kitchen decors. It felt sturdy in my hands, and the weight of 3.4 pounds gave it a reassuring presence without being cumbersome. I appreciated that the unit included two transparent plastic containers—one with a metal bottom ideal for grinding, and another with a rubberized lid for storage, which helped keep things neat.
Versatility in Functionality: Food Processor and Coffee Grinder in One
This combination unit impressed me by handling two distinct tasks with ease. One stainless-steel blade is dedicated to chopping food, while the other is optimized for grinding coffee beans. I tested both functions extensively. The chopping blade worked well for small batches of veggies and nuts, though it’s not meant for heavy-duty food prep. The coffee grinder functionality was surprisingly effective, delivering a consistent grind for my morning brew. The pulse button gave me precise control over the chopping and grinding process, allowing me to avoid over-processing delicate ingredients or coffee beans. Having these two appliances in one saved me from cluttering the kitchen with multiple gadgets.
Ease of Use and Maintenance
Operating this mini processor was straightforward. The pulse button responded quickly, and I liked that the cord could be neatly stored away after use, reducing tripping hazards and mess. One thing to note is that the product is powered by an AC adapter, so it needs to be near an outlet, which could be a limitation in some kitchen layouts. Cleaning was mostly a breeze since the blades and containers are detachable. However, the product care instructions recommend hand washing, which might be a slight inconvenience for those expecting dishwasher-safe parts. The plastic containers are clear, making it easy to monitor the chopping or grinding process without lifting the lid.
Highlights of Performance and User Experience
The BLACK+DECKER CG800B stood out for several reasons during my testing:
- The dual stainless-steel blades are sharp and durable, delivering consistent results.
- The transparent containers allow for easy monitoring and reduce accidental over-processing.
- The under-cabinet mounting option is a rare feature that adds convenience to small kitchens.
- Pulse control provides excellent precision for various food textures and coffee grinds.
Even my family noticed the difference when I used this device to quickly prep ingredients or grind fresh coffee. My partner appreciated the quieter operation compared to our old grinder, and my kids enjoyed watching the mini processor in action through the clear container lids.
Limitations and Areas for Improvement
While this mini food processor and coffee grinder combo is handy, a few drawbacks surfaced:
- The capacity is limited, making it unsuitable for large batches or heavy-duty food prep.
- The AC adapter limits portability, so it’s not ideal for outdoor or cordless use.
- Having to hand wash the components may be inconvenient for some users.
- The pulse function, though precise, doesn’t offer variable speed control, which could enhance versatility.
- Some users might find the black plastic casing prone to fingerprints and smudges.
These aspects don’t ruin the overall experience but are worth considering, especially if you plan to use the appliance for more extensive food preparation or want more advanced control features.
Value Assessment: Is It Worth the Investment?
The price-to-quality ratio of this mini food processor and coffee grinder is reasonable, especially considering its dual functionality. It delivers smart spending benefits by combining two kitchen tools into one compact unit, saving both money and counter space. While it lacks some high-end features like variable speeds or dishwasher-safe parts, it covers the essentials well enough for casual users or those with limited kitchen space. If you primarily need a device for small chopping jobs and grinding coffee beans, this unit offers budget-friendly convenience without significant compromises. However, those who require larger capacity or more power might find it limiting.
Product Comparisons: How It Stacks Up Against Competitors
Compared to other mini food processors and coffee grinders on the market, this model holds its own but also reveals certain trade-offs. Some rivals boast cordless designs or dishwasher-safe components, making cleanup and portability easier. Others come with multiple speed settings, which enhance control over food texture and grind size. However, those features often come with a higher price tag and larger size.
What the BLACK+DECKER CG800B excels at is its space-saving design and dual-purpose functionality—two features not always found together. The under-cabinet mounting option is particularly uncommon and useful in cramped kitchens. In terms of grinding quality, it performs on par with dedicated coffee grinders in the same price range, while also offering basic food processing capabilities. If your priority is an all-in-one gadget that won’t consume much space or budget, this product is a solid contender.
Positives That Made a Difference
- Dual stainless-steel blades for efficient chopping and grinding
- Compact size with an innovative under-cabinet mounting option
- Pulse button offers precise control during operation
- Clear containers provide easy monitoring of processing progress
Drawbacks to Keep in Mind
- Limited capacity restricts batch size
- Requires hand washing, not dishwasher-safe
- AC adapter limits mobility and placement options
- Lacks variable speed settings for more nuanced processing
Testing this mini food processor and coffee grinder gave me a clear sense of its strengths and weaknesses. It is a nifty, space-conscious appliance that handles basic kitchen tasks with ease, but it does have limitations that might influence your decision depending on your cooking habits and kitchen setup.
Additional information
Brand | BLACK+DECKER |
---|---|
Color | Black |
Product Care Instructions | Hand Wash |
Included Components | Chopping Blade, Container, Lid |
Model Name | black+decker |
Power Source | AC adapter |
Global Trade Identification Number | 00050875801608 |
Manufacturer | Black & Decker |
UPC | 050875801608 |
Product Dimensions | 9.65 x 8.07 x 5.51 inches |
Item Weight | 3.4 pounds |
Item model number | CG800B |
Is Discontinued By Manufacturer | No |
Date First Available | February 10, 2009 |