Panasonic Microwave Oven NN-SN686S review is it the best countertop option?

Description

Sleek and Functional Design

The Panasonic Microwave Oven NN-SN686S immediately caught my eye with its sleek stainless steel exterior. It’s compact yet manages to fit a 13.4-inch turntable, making it ideal for a variety of dishes. The minimalist design complements modern kitchens effortlessly, and I found the push-button door release surprisingly convenient during busy cooking sessions. Its compact footprint doesn’t hog counter space, yet the 1.2 cubic foot interior feels spacious enough to handle family-sized meals. While the design is undoubtedly attractive, the fingerprints on the stainless steel can be a bit of a nuisance. A quick wipe fixes it, but it’s worth noting for anyone who’s particular about keeping surfaces spotless.

Performance That Stands Out

What really sets this microwave apart is its Inverter Technology, which ensures a seamless and consistent stream of cooking power. Unlike traditional microwaves that tend to overcook the edges while leaving the center cold, this one delivers even heating throughout. I tested it with everything from soup to frozen meals, and the results were consistently impressive. The Turbo Defrost feature is another highlight—it defrosted chicken evenly and in record time without partially cooking it, which used to drive me nuts with my old microwave. The 1200 watts of power really do make a difference when you’re in a hurry.

Smart Features for Everyday Convenience

The Genius Sensor cooking button is a game-changer for someone like me who doesn’t always measure or time things perfectly. It adjusts power levels and cooking time automatically based on the steam released by the food. I especially appreciated the 14 preset menu options, which made whipping up popcorn, reheating pizza, or preparing oatmeal effortless. The quick minute timer and delay start options were also handy when juggling multiple kitchen tasks. However, navigating the membrane keypad took a bit of getting used to—it’s not as intuitive as I had hoped.

Key Benefits

• Inverter Technology ensures even cooking without overcooking edges.
• Turbo Defrost significantly speeds up defrosting times.
• Genius Sensor removes guesswork for perfectly cooked meals.
• Compact yet spacious with a 1.2 cubic foot capacity.

Areas of Concern

• Membrane keypad could be more user-friendly.
• Stainless steel exterior is prone to showing fingerprints.
• Lack of interior lighting during cooking makes it hard to monitor food.

Good Points

The Keep Warm feature pleasantly surprised me. Soups and gravies stayed warm without drying out, which isn’t something I’ve seen in many microwaves. It’s a small detail, but it adds a lot of practicality. The child safety lock is another thoughtful addition for homes with kids, ensuring no accidental button presses disrupt cooking. I also noticed that the microwave operates quietly, which is a big plus in an open-layout kitchen.

Product Rivals

In comparison to other models like the Toshiba EM131A5C-BS or the Breville Compact Wave Soft Close, this Panasonic model stands out for its Inverter Technology and Genius Sensor features. While the Toshiba offers a slightly more intuitive control panel, it lacks the even heating capabilities that this Panasonic microwave excels at. Breville’s soft-close door is a nice touch, but its price point is higher without offering significantly better performance. For those prioritizing consistent cooking and defrosting, this Panasonic microwave hits the mark.

Quality for Price

Looking at the features it offers, I’d say this microwave delivers great value for its price range. The Inverter Technology alone justifies the investment, especially if you’re tired of unevenly cooked meals. While it may not have all the bells and whistles of higher-end models, it provides a solid balance of performance and affordability, making it a smart choice for most households.

Overall, my experience with this microwave has been positive. It’s not perfect, but its consistent performance and smart features make it a reliable addition to any kitchen.

Additional information