In this Panasonic NN-SN766s review, you'll be able to weigh an informed decision if this microwave oven model from this big-named brand is still a worthy buy.
If you're going bonkers comparing the hundreds of microwave oven models in the market today, read on to see if this Panasonic microwave should be included in your top 5 shortlists of microwaves...OR NOT. Also, check out this review that features more affordable ovens, including Panasonic.
Panasonic NN SN766s Review
In such a competitive niche, Panasonic's NN-SN766s microwave oven has shined a bright light ever since it was first launched in the market in March 2016.
Even if there are several newer models within the Panasonic range of countertop microwave ovens, NN-SN766s has continuously received rave reviews and 5 stars on Amazon. This review highlights its strengths and a few weaknesses you should know before you decide to purchase.
NN-SN766s Microwave Oven Design
This Panasonic microwave is stainless steel, countertop built to impress, but if you're not a countertop fan and want it installed as a space-saving, built-in model, then you'd be glad to know that there's a built-in model via a trim kit for a 27-inch cabinet opening.
When it comes to dimensions, the NN-SN766s measures 12 x 19.1 x 21.8 inches with only a 32-pound weight thanks to its aluminum components.
The exterior design of NN-SN766s starts with a sleek stainless steel finish (see more quality stainless steel ovens here), which always amps up the elegance a couple of notches higher in my book.
This particular Panasonic countertop unit is designed with a keypad (instead of the traditional dial), along with a LED screen to see all instructions and settings more clearly. It's perfect for people who prefer hands-free cooking while prepping in the kitchen.
Cooking Capacity
This stainless steel microwave has a cooking capacity of 1.6 cu ft (cubic feet) with a 15-inch, thin and lightweight turntable. This capacity is enough space to fit your favorite 15-inch baking pan or dish.
Having a bigger 1.6 cu ft capacity on this Panasonic countertop-built oven means you will be able to reduce energy consumption. No more multiple trips to the microwave oven.
For a family-sized, stainless steel microwave oven, the size seems a bit small, but if you open the door, you'll immediately see that the interior space is actually large enough and the exterior dimensions wouldn't be such a big deal.
Panasonic Inverter Technology
According to Panasonic, their microwave countertop built with inverter technology guarantee 40% shorter cooking times. The company has been working on microwave cooking technologies since the 1960s, so it's no wonder they have one of the best (and patented) inverter technology in the industry.
Many people recommend inverter technology for its energy-saving and eco-friendly footprint, but if you're looking for more reasons to like this unit, here are several other reasons why Panasonic's inverter technology is top-notch
- With the 1.6 cu ft NN-SN766s, your food will defrost evenly. No more frozen middle on your meats.
- With the inverter NN-SN766s, your food will cook evenly as well. Say goodbye to burned edges or raw parts.
- This countertop built with inverter tech has the most gentle heat distribution that butter melts extremely smoothly when you place it into the oven.
A microwave countertop built with inverter technology, like the Panasonic NN-SN766s, provides a consistent output of heat while using less power. Because of this, this stainless steel microwave can effortlessly cook delicate ingredients like Salmon and retain its juice, colors, and flavor even after cooking.
Other Features of the Panasonic Microwave NN-SN766s
Aside from the impressive inverter technology, there's a LOT more to like about this stainless steel Panasonic microwave oven.
Preset Menu Settings with Genius Sensor
The Genius Sensor control panel has preset menu settings (with corresponding cooking power) to let you cook and prep ingredients as quickly as possible without having to control power levels every time you change foods.
The Genius Sensor quick-access buttons showcase 6 push-button controls:
1. Popcorn
This is genius! Of course, there should be a special button for popcorn - it's one of the most-used cooking features of any microwave oven.
With Panasonic's Genius Sensor, users are given 3 extra options for glorious popcorn-popping.
2. Genius Sensor Reheat
Panasonic NN-SN766S is a microwave countertop built to make your life easy. The Genius Sensor Reheat function calculates the humidity level of your previously prepared food and reheats it to match the perfect temperature.
When you use the Genius Sensor Reheat button, leftovers wouldn't taste or feel like soggy, cold, crusty, or overcooked leftover meals. Instead, they would taste almost fresh.
3. Genius Sensor Cook
With Genius Sensor "Cook" function, you can auto-cook 14 different types of food, from pasta to rice, oatmeal, omelet, quinoa, potatoes, fresh vegetables, and frozen food like pizza, entrees, or vegetables.
Every food item has been automatically set for you, so if you need to cook oatmeal, just find the appropriate button and let the machine cook for you.
4. Power Level
There are 10 levels to choose from, depending on the power output you need. This feature I'm not so fond of because unlike standard microwave ovens that use 1 press corresponds to 10%, 2 for 20%, and so on, users have to press the buttons of Panasonic NN-SN766S repeatedly.
I do appreciate the Delay Start button, timer, and Speed Cook mode.
5. Inverter Turbo Defrost
The Genius Sensor Turbo Defrost upgrade is definitely one of the top features of this unit. Just like traditional defrosting features, but better thanks to inverter technology that reduces power consumption but still offering the same consistent stream of heat.
With this stainless steel Panasonic microwave, you won't waste time thawing ingredients as quick-to-melt as chocolates and butter, or even tougher frozen meats. You just have to set the weight and the Genius sensor will adjust its heating power for thawing.
6. Keep Warm
This Genius Sensor function is not as exciting as the others, but it is just as helpful. With the "Keep Warm" button, you'll be able to keep your gravy, soups, and other hot food items for as long as you need.
Pros and Cons of NN-SN766s
Pros
Cons
Other Similar Panasonic Microwave Models
Three other models are almost identical to this stainless steel keypad Panasonic microwave oven. They include:
- A black version (NN-SN75LB) with the same keypad as the NN-SN766s
- A white version (NN-SN75LW) with the same keypad as the NN-SN766s
- A dial version (NN-SD78LS) but in the same stainless steel finish as NN-SN766s
Microwave FAQs
The secret to shopping for any piece of appliance is to ask the right questions. The following frequently asked questions can help you make an informed decision about all Panasonic microwave units in general.
Are Panasonic Microwaves Made in China?
In recent years, about 40% of Panasonic home appliances are produced overseas (mostly in China). But in 2015, Panasonic decided to bring the production of its top-loading washing machines back to Japan, specifically at a factory in Fukuroi, Shizuoka Prefecture.
The manufacturing of Panasonic microwave ovens was subsequently brought back to Kobe, Shiga Prefecture in Japan.
Who Makes the Best Microwave?
Many brands are competing in the world of microwaves, but you'd be safe choosing one from:
- Amazon Basics (if you have Alexa and love futuristic AI/machine learning appliance)
- GE, Panasonic, KitchenAid, Toshiba, Samsung, and Whirlpool if you're looking for trusted brands and have the budget to pick higher-end models.
- Black+Decker and Hamilton Beach are good brands with affordable models
What is the Safest Microwave to Buy?
Microwaves, much like an oven range, can malfunction and cause dangerous fires. To guarantee you are buying a safe microwave unit, look for the following:
- Safety certificates (all legit brands include this on the box)
- Safety recalls listed by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC)
- Verified customer reviews focused on safety concerns (read reviews on Amazon one by one - they could tell you a lot about potential problems other users have faced, and how to avoid them)
Is Panasonic NN SN766s a Good Buy?
If you're window-shopping for a quality, countertop microwave, I hope this review has been helpful.
I think this stainless steel, Panasonic microwave oven (NN-SN766S) warms, cooks thaw food, and would make your kitchen life 10x easier. And for the amount of time and stress you'd less likely to spend with the NN-SN766S, it is a product that you should definitely check out.
Many of its features compare to other 1.6 cubic feet 1250 watts microwave ovens within its price range, but the inverter technology and Genius sensor feature give the NN-SN766S Panasonic microwave a HUGE edge over its competition. Moreover, check out other top options at similar price. Or you can look for reviews of more budget friendly options.
My Verdict vs. Reviews and 5 Stars Rating
I love that this unit caters to both worlds - those who love space-saving built-in microwave ovens, and those who prefer the countertop built to adjust in any kitchen space. You have total control of installation - and I'm all for it.
Like any microwave countertop built with inverter technology, you're guaranteed continuous cooking power. The Turbo Defrost combined with the 1250-watt power level allows for quick defrosting and overall time-saving throughout your kitchen duties.
It says a LOT that verified customers who purchase and owned this silver stainless steel oven still gives this design praises, even if it was released over 7 years ago.