Finding the right microwave oven can be surprisingly challenging. For years, I struggled with unevenly cooked food and slow defrosting times in my old microwave, leading to frustration and wasted food. A new microwave with advanced features like the Panasonic NN-SN686S would have saved me countless hours and headaches.
Countertop microwaves offer convenience and versatility for smaller kitchens or as a supplementary appliance. The ideal customer is someone seeking a balance between features, performance, and budget. Those who need large capacity or specialized features (like convection) might find a larger, more expensive model better suited to their needs. Before purchasing, consider these factors: size and capacity (how much space do you have, and how much food do you typically microwave?), wattage (higher wattage usually means faster cooking), features (sensor cooking, inverter technology, defrosting capabilities, etc.), and budget. Read reviews carefully to assess the reliability and user experience.
- Panasonic Microwave: This 1200 Watt high power, 1.2 cubic foot capacity stainless steel countertop/built in microwave delivers a seamless stream of cooking power for even cooking and delicious...
- Inverter Technology with Turbo Defrost: Patented Inverter Technology generates a seamless stream of power and delivers consistent, evenly prepared food without overcooking; Advanced Inverter Turbo...
- Compact Design: This countertop microwave with 13.4 inch turntable is thinner, lighter and more efficient, allowing you to devote less space to electronics and more to interior capacity; Internal...
Introducing the Panasonic NN-SN686S: A Detailed Look
The Panasonic NN-SN686S Stainless Steel Countertop/Built-In Microwave boasts 1200 watts of power, a 1.2 cubic foot capacity, and a sleek stainless steel design. It promises even cooking thanks to its patented Inverter Technology and offers convenient features like a Genius Sensor for automated cooking and a child safety lock. Compared to some competitors, its compact design makes it a space-saving option while the Inverter technology stands out for its even heating. This microwave is perfect for those seeking a powerful yet space-efficient option with advanced features, but it might not be ideal for those needing a much larger capacity.
- Pros: Even cooking, fast defrosting, compact design, numerous preset options, child safety lock
- Cons: Relatively dim interior light, slightly stiff keypad buttons, some users report Wi-Fi interference (see detailed review below).
- Microwave output power 1000 watts, input power 1600 watts. External dimensions 20.6 x 16.0 x 11.8 inches (WxDxH); internal dimensions 13.1 x 12.4 x 8.3 inches (WxDxH); includes 12.4-inch glass...
- EXTRA-QUICK COOKING: Choose from six popular presets for microwave ovens, including popcorn, pizza, beverages, veggies, potatoes, or leftovers. Or just press the number keys to quickly set the cook...
- Two-Step Child Lock: This mandatory safety feature for microwaves helps prevent unintended use by younger family members, plesase open the machine according to the steps shown in the figure.
Exploring the Features and Benefits of the Panasonic NN-SN686S
Inverter Technology: The Key to Even Cooking
The heart of the Panasonic NN-SN686S is its Inverter Technology. Unlike conventional microwaves that use bursts of high power, this technology delivers a continuous stream of power. This results in significantly more even cooking, preventing cold spots and overcooked edges. I’ve noticed a remarkable difference in the consistency of reheated leftovers and cooked meals—everything from pasta to vegetables is heated evenly. This feature alone justifies the investment for me.
Genius Sensor: Smart Cooking Made Easy
The Genius Sensor is a real game-changer. This feature automatically adjusts the cooking time and power based on the type and quantity of food. I found it to be incredibly accurate and convenient for quickly reheating leftovers or preparing simple meals. While it might not replace more precise cooking methods, it excels at tasks like reheating and defrosting, making it incredibly convenient for everyday use. While initially skeptical, I now rely on it frequently, saving time and guesswork.
Turbo Defrost: Rapid and Efficient Defrosting
The Turbo Defrost function, enhanced by the Inverter Technology, dramatically reduces defrosting time. I’ve found it far superior to the defrosting capabilities of my previous microwave. Food defrosts much faster and more evenly, without the risk of overcooking the edges while the center remains frozen. This feature has proven invaluable for busy weeknights when quick meal preparation is essential.
Additional Convenient Features
Beyond the core features, the Panasonic NN-SN686S offers a wealth of helpful extras. The 14 preset cooking options are incredibly useful, offering quick settings for various foods. The quick minute timer and delay start functions are also appreciated additions for precise control over cooking times. Finally, the child safety lock provides peace of mind for families with young children. The intuitive control panel makes it easy to use.
Addressing the Cons: A Balanced Perspective
While overwhelmingly positive, I do want to address some of the less positive aspects mentioned in other reviews. The interior light, although functional, is indeed on the dimmer side, making it slightly challenging to view food in low light. Additionally, the keypad buttons do require a firmer press than some other models; it’s a minor inconvenience but something to be aware of. Finally, some users have reported Wi-Fi interference. In my experience, while I noticed a slight decrease in speed of certain 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi devices when the microwave was operating at full power, it wasn’t a significant issue. The interference was minimal and did not disrupt my internet connection or cause any data loss.
What Other Users Are Saying: Real-World Experiences
Online reviews generally praise the Panasonic NN-SN686S for its even cooking, fast defrosting, and compact size. Many users highlight the convenience of the Genius Sensor and the overall ease of use. While some minor complaints about the light and button responsiveness exist, the positive feedback significantly outweighs the negative.
The Verdict: A Highly Recommended Microwave Oven
The Panasonic NN-SN686S has solved my long-standing microwave frustrations. The Inverter Technology ensures consistent, even cooking, saving me time and reducing food waste. Its convenient features like the Genius Sensor and Turbo Defrost make daily use a breeze. While minor drawbacks exist, the overall performance and reliability make it a highly recommended investment for those seeking a top-performing, compact countertop microwave. To experience the difference for yourself, click here to check out the Panasonic NN-SN686S today!
Last update on 2025-09-11 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API