Panasonic NN-SN686S vs NN-SU696S: Which Microwave Oven is the Better Pick?

Microwaves are one of those kitchen appliances that you don’t realize you depend on until they’re gone. From reheating leftovers to cooking entire meals, a reliable microwave saves time, energy, and frustration. I recently had the chance to try out two popular Panasonic models: the NN-SN686S and the NN-SU696S. On paper, they look quite similar, both mid-sized, stainless steel countertop microwaves but after using them side by side, I noticed key differences that could sway your buying decision.

If you’re torn between these two models, let me walk you through the details based on my hands-on experience.

Key Difference Between Panasonic NN-SN686S vs NN-SU696S Microwave Oven

The Panasonic NN-SN686S stands out with its Inverter Technology and Genius Sensor cooking, which ensure even heating and reduce the risk of overcooking. The Panasonic NN-SU696S, while slightly larger in capacity, relies on more traditional microwave tech but offers practical features like multiple popcorn settings and a straightforward control panel. Essentially, the NN-SN686S is more advanced, while the NN-SU696S is simpler but still powerful.

Comparison Table: Panasonic NN-SN686S vs NN-SU696S Microwave Oven

Feature	Panasonic NN-SN686S	Panasonic NN-SU696S
Power Output	1200W	1100W
Capacity	1.2 cu. ft.	1.3 cu. ft.
Dimensions	15.8″D x 20.7″W x 12.2″H	16.63″D x 20.44″W x 12.38″H
Weight	Lighter and more compact	Slightly heavier
Turntable Size	13.4 inches	13.4 inches
Technology	Inverter Technology + Turbo Defrost	Standard microwave with popcorn presets
Sensor Cooking	Genius Sensor (14 auto menus)	7 auto cook menu items
Special Features	Keep Warm, Delay Start, Child Safety Lock	Popcorn button with 3 levels, Keep Warm
Power Consumption	1480W	1500W
Best For	Even cooking, versatile menu options	Simple cooking and popcorn lovers
Buy on Amazon	Buy on Amazon	Buy on Amazon

Detailed Comparative Review

Design and Build

Both microwaves have a sleek stainless-steel finish that looks modern and blends well with most kitchens.

The NN-SN686S is slightly smaller in footprint, making it easier to fit into tighter spaces. Its control panel is a membrane keypad with dedicated menu buttons, which feels intuitive once you get the hang of it.

The NN-SU696S is a touch bulkier, but still compact for its capacity. Its control panel leans on fewer presets and knob-style simplicity, which some people might prefer if they dislike complicated settings.

For me, the NN-SN686S looks and feels a bit more premium, while the NN-SU696S keeps things very straightforward.

Ease of Use

Here’s where preferences can really differ.

With the NN-SN686S, the Genius Sensor makes cooking nearly foolproof. I loved being able to toss in leftovers, hit a button, and let the microwave decide the correct time and power level. The Inverter Turbo Defrost also impressed me it defrosted chicken evenly without leaving frozen spots in the middle.

The NN-SU696S skips the advanced inverter system and instead gives you seven preset cooking menus and a handy three-level popcorn button. I found it incredibly useful for family movie nights since it nailed popcorn without burning half the bag.

If you prefer smarter automation, the NN-SN686S is better. But if you just want something simple and reliable, the NN-SU696S delivers.

Cooking Performance

Both models heat food quickly, but the results were different in quality.

The NN-SN686S’s Inverter Technology maintains a steady stream of power, which means your food cooks evenly. For example, reheating pasta didn’t leave me with hot edges and a cold middle. It also did a great job keeping soups warm without boiling them.

The NN-SU696S at 1100W still cooks fast, but I did notice a bit of unevenness, especially with larger portions. That said, for everyday tasks like heating coffee, reheating a plate of food, or making popcorn, it worked just fine.

Functions and Versatility

The NN-SN686S offers 14 preset menu items, a Genius Sensor, Turbo Defrost, Keep Warm, and a delay start. This microwave is more versatile for someone who likes using presets or wants to cook full meals in it.

The NN-SU696S is simpler, with 7 auto cook menus, popcorn modes, and a Keep Warm feature. It’s less versatile but still covers all the basics well.

Everyday Experience

When I needed precision and didn’t want to babysit my food, I leaned on the NN-SN686S. The Genius Sensor honestly felt like a personal assistant it always adjusted cooking perfectly.

But for quick, straightforward tasks like making popcorn, heating frozen meals, or reheating a plate, the NN-SU696S felt faster to operate. Its simplified menu made it easy for my family members who didn’t want to figure out multiple presets.

Panasonic NN-SN686S Stainless Steel Microwave Oven

Pros:

• Inverter Technology ensures even cooking
• Genius Sensor with 14 presets makes cooking effortless
• Compact yet efficient design
• Turbo Defrost works quickly and evenly
• Keep Warm feature is excellent for soups and sauces

Cons:

• Slightly smaller interior than SU696S
• Learning curve with multiple buttons
• Pricier than SU696S

Buy on Amazon

Panasonic NN-SU696S Stainless Steel Microwave Oven

Pros:

• Simple, user-friendly controls
• Slightly larger capacity (1.3 cu. ft.)
• Popcorn button with 3 levels is very convenient
• Good everyday performance for reheating and quick meals
• More affordable

Cons:

• No inverter technology (less consistent heating)
• Fewer presets (7 vs. 14 on the SN686S)
• Slightly bulkier footprint

Buy on Amazon

Conclusion: Which One Should You Buy?

After using both, I’d say your choice depends on what you value most.

If you want precision cooking, advanced features, and consistently even results, the Panasonic NN-SN686S is the smarter investment. It’s perfect for people who actually cook meals in their microwave and appreciate automation through the Genius Sensor.

If you prefer simplicity, a slightly larger interior, and a budget-friendly price, the Panasonic NN-SU696S is an excellent pick. It doesn’t have all the bells and whistles, but it handles everyday tasks with ease especially popcorn.

My Recommendation: I’d personally lean toward the NN-SN686S because I cook a lot and the inverter technology makes a noticeable difference. But if my needs were just reheating, defrosting, and popcorn, the NN-SU696S would be more than enough.