10 Best Panasonic Microwaves 2025 in the United States

The Panasonic Microwave Oven NN-SN686S is a 1200-watt, 1.2 cubic foot capacity microwave that offers several advanced features. One of its standout strengths is the Inverter Technology, which ensures even cooking and prevents overcooking, making it great for consistent meal preparation. The microwave also includes a Turbo Defrost feature to speed up defrosting times, which is very convenient for busy households.

The Genius Sensor adjusts power and cooking times automatically based on the type of food, which adds ease of use for those who might not be familiar with cooking times and settings. Additionally, the compact design is space-efficient, allowing more room inside the microwave without taking up too much counter space. The turntable ensures that food is cooked evenly and the child safety lock is a thoughtful feature for homes with children.

On the downside, the control panel uses a membrane keypad with 5 menu buttons which might not appeal to those who prefer more tactile or digital interfaces. Also, the unit is on the heavier side at 25.5 pounds, which can make it less portable. In terms of design, the stainless steel finish is sleek and modern, fitting well into most kitchen decors. However, it is a countertop model, so it might not be suitable for those looking to save counter space with a built-in option. This microwave is well-suited for residential use, especially for those who prioritize cooking performance and convenience.

The Panasonic NN-SN67K Microwave Oven is a well-rounded choice for residential use. With 1200 watts of power, it offers efficient cooking performance. The 1.2 cubic feet capacity is suitable for most household needs, balancing space-saving with adequate cooking space. The stainless steel design is sleek and modern, fitting well in various kitchen styles.

One of its standout features is the Inverter Technology, which ensures even cooking by maintaining a consistent stream of power, preventing overcooked edges and cold centers. This technology is beneficial for those who frequently use the microwave for cooking meals rather than just reheating food. The Genius Sensor Cooking feature takes the guesswork out of cooking, adjusting time and power automatically for optimal results. It includes 16 sensor cook settings, which are convenient for a variety of dishes. Additionally, the Turbo Defrost function speeds up the defrosting process, a handy feature for busy households needing quick meal prep. Another interesting feature is the 3-level popcorn button, allowing users to choose the best settings for different popcorn bag sizes, enhancing snack time.

However, the control panel, while smart, may take some getting used to for those unfamiliar with advanced microwave settings. The 13.4-inch turntable ensures even heating but may limit the size of dishes that can fit inside. This microwave is built for countertop installation, which may not be ideal for kitchens with limited counter space. The easy-clean interior is a plus, making maintenance simple. This microwave is a strong contender for those looking for efficient, smart cooking features in a stylish package.

The Panasonic NN-SN68KS Compact Microwave Oven is a solid choice for those needing a powerful countertop appliance. With 1200 watts of power, it offers quick and efficient cooking, making it suitable for busy households. Its 1.2 cubic feet capacity should suffice for most family needs, fitting typical dinner plates and medium-sized dishes comfortably. The stainless steel design gives it a sleek, modern look that can complement most kitchen decors.

One of its standout features is the Inverter Technology, which helps in providing consistent cooking by evenly distributing the microwave power. This means your food is less likely to have cold spots or overcooked edges. The Genius Sensor Cooking adjusts the power and cooking time automatically, removing the guesswork and aiding in achieving better cooking results, especially for reheating leftovers.

The microwave also includes a user-friendly control panel with 16 sensor cook settings and a handy 3-Level Popcorn Button, which allows you to select the best time and temperature based on bag size. However, if you prefer a flatbed design for more flexible cooking space, the 13.4-inch turntable could be seen as a limitation. Turbo Defrost is a practical feature, speeding up the defrosting process, although some users might find it doesn't always defrost evenly. The easy-clean interior is a plus for maintenance, making it easier to wipe off spills and splatters.

While the microwave is largely well-received, one potential downside could be its larger footprint for those with limited counter space, given its dimensions of 15.8 x 20.7 x 12.2 inches. At a weight of 25.5 pounds, you might find it a bit challenging to move if you need to reposition it frequently. The Panasonic NN-SN68KS is ideal for those who value power and innovation in a microwave, particularly if you frequently use sensor cooking and defrosting features, and have the space to accommodate its size.