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 and weighs only 32 pounds, thanks to its aluminum components. The exterior design of the NN-SN766s features a sleek stainless steel finish (see more quality stainless steel ovens here), which adds a touch of elegance.
This particular Panasonic countertop unit is designed with a keypad, replacing the traditional dial, and it includes an LED screen for clearer instructions and settings visibility. It is perfect for individuals who prefer hands-free cooking while working in the kitchen.
Overall, the unit is well-designed, with user-friendly buttons and a dial. However, it would have been nice to have backlight buttons for easy visibility at night without having to turn on the kitchen lights.
Nevertheless, my wife is highly satisfied with the clean and modern stainless steel finish, as well as the smooth and impeccable operation of the controls, including the door opening and closing mechanism.
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 in this Panasonic countertop-built oven allows for reduced energy consumption, eliminating the need for multiple trips to the microwave.
Although the size may appear small for a family-sized stainless steel microwave oven, once you open the door, you'll immediately notice that the interior space is actually spacious enough, making the exterior dimensions less of a concern.
Unlike our previous microwave, the defroster in this model is less prone to cooking the edges of the meat being defrosted. While I typically use other methods for defrosting, such as placing items in warm water or on the counter, the defroster performs well when needed.
I appreciate its contemporary look, and it cooks and defrosts even better than my previous Panasonic inverter model. It also heats food faster with minimal overheating on the edges, although this observation is anecdotal.
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, such as the Panasonic NN-SN766s, offers a consistent heat output while consuming less power. Consequently, this stainless steel microwave can effortlessly cook delicate ingredients like salmon while retaining their juiciness, vibrant colors, and flavors even after cooking.
The interior light is exceptionally bright and emits a clean white color. As a devoted admirer of Panasonic's inverter technology, I find it truly distinguishes this microwave from others in the market, ensuring that my food is always cooked evenly.
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 offers convenient preset menu settings, eliminating the need to adjust power levels when switching between different foods. This feature enables you to cook and prepare ingredients quickly and effortlessly.
With its user-friendly "sensor" functions, you can simply push a button without worrying about weights or complex settings. For example, when reheating leftover meat or heating up a delicious soup, just place it inside, select the appropriate sensor option such as Sensor Reheat, and press Start.
This microwave is also highly inclusive, catering to individuals who are blind or have vision impairments. The round number buttons, rectangular auto program and start/stop buttons, and the recessed door shut button in the lower right panel provide a tactile and sensory-friendly experience.
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 absolutely love this versatile microwave unit that caters to both space-saving enthusiasts and those who prefer a countertop design. The best part is, you have complete control over the installation process, which I find incredibly convenient.
Just like any other countertop microwave equipped with inverter technology, this one ensures consistent cooking power. With its Turbo Defrost feature and a power level of 1250 watts, it allows for quick defrosting and saves a considerable amount of time during kitchen duties.
What's truly impressive is that even after being on the market for over 7 years, this silver stainless steel oven continues to receive high praise from verified customers who have purchased and owned it. It may have fewer features than its predecessor, but most of those unused features are not missed. While it lacks an air fryer, which we never utilized, it performs exceptionally well for all the regular microwave functions.
One of my initial concerns was the clearance required on the sides, but this unit is designed intelligently with its vents placed in a way that minimal side clearance is necessary. As far as consumer microwaves go, this is the most powerful one I know of. When it claims "Turbo defrost," it truly lives up to its name. If you're in a hurry, it can defrost two pounds of meat in less than 10 minutes. However, do pay attention to the beep it emits during defrosting larger quantities of meat, unless you want hot outer edges and a still-frozen middle.
The installation process was a breeze, as this unit seamlessly fit into our existing trim kit and cabinet opening. It took us only around 30 minutes to complete the installation. Most of the features are similar to our previous unit, but we do miss the reminder beep when contents are not promptly retrieved.
Overall, based on my experience and the positive feedback from other customers, I can confidently say that this microwave unit is a worthy investment. Its versatility, power, and efficient defrosting capabilities make it a top choice for any kitchen.