It is a rare day in the kitchen when two appliances look nearly identical on the counter but behave like entirely different machines under the hood. I’ve spent the last several weeks putting the Panasonic NN-SN686S and the Panasonic NN-SU696S through a gauntlet of “real-world” stressors. We aren’t just talking about reheating coffee; I’m talking about delicate poaching, defrosting stubborn blocks of ground beef, and seeing which one can actually handle a family-sized bowl of oatmeal without an explosive “lava” spill.
While both carry that professional stainless steel aesthetic and occupy roughly the same amount of real estate, the performance gap between them is wider than you might expect. One is a high-tech precision tool, while the other is a reliable, high-power workhorse. Here is exactly what it’s like to live with these two side-by-side.
The Key Difference: Panasonic NN-SN686S vs NN-SU696S Microwave Oven
The single most important distinction between these two models lies in Inverter Technology.
- The Panasonic NN-SN686S (The Precision Specialist): This model features Panasonic’s patented Inverter Technology. Unlike traditional microwaves that turn the power “on and off” to reach a lower heat level (like 50% power), this unit delivers a continuous, seamless stream of energy at exactly the level you set. It also boasts a higher 1200W
- The Panasonic NN-SU696S (The High-Capacity Standard): This model is a more traditional “compact” microwave. While it lacks the true Inverter power delivery, it offers a slightly larger 3 cubic foot capacity – giving you a bit more breathing room for larger dinner plates – and runs at 1100W.
Technical Comparison Table: Panasonic NN-SN686S vs NN-SU696S Microwave Oven
| Feature | Panasonic NN-SN686S | Panasonic NN-SU696S |
| Cooking Power | 1200 Watts | 1100 Watts |
| Capacity | 1.2 Cubic Feet | 1.3 Cubic Feet |
| Heating Tech | Patented Inverter Technology | Conventional / Sensor Cook |
| Turntable Diameter | 13.4 Inches | 13.4 Inches |
| Defrost Style | Inverter Turbo Defrost | Auto Defrost |
| Preset Menus | 14 Items | 7 Items |
| Sensor Tech | Genius Sensor | Standard Sensor |
| Dimensions | 15.8″D x 20.7″W x 12.2″H | 16.63″D x 20.44″W x 12.38″H |
| Weight | ~25 lbs | ~27 lbs |
| Check Latest Price on Amazon | Buy on Amazon | Buy on Amazon |
Detailed Comparative Review: My Personal Performance Audit
Design: Minimalist Footprint vs. Maximum Interior
Placing these in my kitchen revealed an interesting paradox. The NN-SN686S is marketed as a “compact” 1.2 cu. ft. unit, and it feels remarkably efficient. Panasonic has thinned out the internal electronics, which means the external shell is slightly smaller than old-school models. The stainless steel finish is bright and high-end, and the “Push-Button” door release has a snappy, mechanical feel that I personally prefer over the pull-handles that often cause the whole microwave to slide forward on the counter.
The NN-SU696S, however, is the “hidden giant.” Despite being called compact, it actually offers 1.3 cubic feet of space. That extra 0.1 cu. ft. doesn’t sound like much until you’re trying to fit a square 9×9 glass baking dish inside. The SU696S handled my larger dinnerware with more ease. The design is a bit deeper (16.63 inches), so if you have shallow counters, you might notice this one sticking out just a hair more than the SN686S.
- Panasonic Microwave: This 1200 Watt high power, 1.2 cubic foot capacity stainless steel countertop/built in microwave delivers a seamless stream of...
- Inverter Technology with Turbo Defrost: Patented Inverter Technology generates a seamless stream of power and delivers consistent, evenly prepared...
- Power plus innovation 1100 watts of high power for fast, even cooking and delicious results
- Microwave controls 7 preset auto cook menu items, 13.4 inch turntable; delay start and timer; more/less control; Child safety lock; quick 30 seconds...
Ease of Use: Membrane Keypads and Quick Logic
I used both of these for my “morning rush” test. The NN-SN686S uses a membrane keypad with very clear labeling for things like “Keep Warm” and “Turbo Defrost.” The “Quick Minute” timer is my most-used button; it’s a one-touch solution that gets things moving instantly.
The NN-SU696S has a slightly different layout, featuring a dedicated Popcorn Button with three different cooking levels. If you are a snack-heavy household, this is a legitimate upgrade. I found the SU696S a bit more “point and shoot” – it has fewer menu presets (7 vs. 14), which actually makes it less intimidating for guests or kids who just want to heat up a slice of pizza without navigating a complex sub-menu.
Functions: The Inverter “Holy Grail”
This is where the NN-SN686S took the lead in my kitchen. I tested both units by melting white chocolate – a task that usually ends in a scorched mess.
- In the NN-SN686S, I set it to 30% power. Because it’s an Inverter, it actually stayed at a low, gentle simmer. The chocolate was perfectly glossy.
- In the NN-SU696S, the microwave pulses the full 1100W on and off to reach an average of 30%. This created “hot spots” in the bowl, requiring me to stop and stir much more frequently.
The Genius Sensor on the SN686S also felt more accurate for “difficult” foods like fish or heavy stews. It senses the steam being released and adjusts the remaining time automatically. While the SU696S also has sensor cooking, the Inverter unit (SN686S) just produces a more “oven-like” result without the rubbery edges you often get with conventional microwaves.
Maintenance: Fighting the Fingerprints
Both models feature a high-quality stainless steel exterior, which looks fantastic but is a magnet for fingerprints.
The NN-SN686S keypad is flat, which I found much easier to sanitize. One quick wipe with a damp cloth cleans the whole interface. The NN-SU696S is similar, but because the unit is slightly lighter than conventional microwaves (about 8 lbs lighter than older tech), I found that I had to hold the top of the microwave while pushing buttons to keep it from scooting back on my quartz countertop. Both interiors have a non-stick coating that made “splatter cleanup” from a rogue spaghetti bowl surprisingly easy.
Panasonic NN-SN686S (The Tech Leader) Microwave Oven
- Panasonic Microwave: This 1200 Watt high power, 1.2 cubic foot capacity stainless steel countertop/built in microwave delivers a seamless stream of...
- Inverter Technology with Turbo Defrost: Patented Inverter Technology generates a seamless stream of power and delivers consistent, evenly prepared...
Pros:
- True Inverter Tech: Superior for delicate tasks like melting, poaching, and simmering.
- Turbo Defrost: Thaws meat significantly faster and more evenly than standard models.
- 1200W Power: High-speed heating for large liquids and soups.
- 14 Presets: A very wide range of automated cooking options.
Cons:
- Slightly Smaller:2 cu. ft. might feel tight for oversized platters.
- Price: Usually commands a small premium for the Inverter technology.
Panasonic NN-SU696S (The Reliable Workhorse) Microwave Oven
- Power plus innovation 1100 watts of high power for fast, even cooking and delicious results
- Microwave controls 7 preset auto cook menu items, 13.4 inch turntable; delay start and timer; more/less control; Child safety lock; quick 30 seconds...
Pros:
- Larger Capacity:3 cu. ft. fits bigger bowls and plates comfortably.
- Popcorn Specialist: The 3-level popcorn button is a dream for movie nights.
- Intuitive: Simpler menu (7 presets) is easier for general household use.
- Value: Often found at a better price point for a larger capacity.
Cons:
- No Inverter: Uses conventional “pulsing” power, which can lead to uneven edges on low-power tasks.
- Depth: Takes up slightly more room in terms of depth on the counter.
Conclusion & My Recommendation: Which One Wins?
After weeks of using both, I’ve realized that these microwaves cater to two very different types of cooks.
I recommend the Panasonic NN-SU696S if:
You want a big, reliable, “no-nonsense” microwave. If your primary use case is popping popcorn, reheating dinner plates, and making the occasional baked potato, the SU696S is fantastic. The extra room (1.3 cu. ft.) and the simple interface make it the ultimate family appliance for a busy household that doesn’t need to do “fancy” microwave cooking.
I recommend the Panasonic NN-SN686S if:
You are a “kitchen enthusiast.” If you actually cook in your microwave – thawing expensive cuts of meat, poaching salmon, or melting chocolate – the Inverter technology is non-negotiable. The 1200W power and the Genius Sensor provide a level of consistency that conventional microwaves simply cannot match.
My Personal Choice: I am sticking with the NN-SN686S. The Turbo Defrost alone is worth the price of admission. Being able to take a frozen pound of ground beef to “ready to cook” in 4 minutes without any grey, cooked edges has changed the way I handle weeknight meal prep.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the “Keep Warm” feature actually worth it?
On the NN-SN686S, yes. Because of the Inverter, it can deliver a very low, steady heat that keeps your side dishes at serving temperature for up to 30 minutes without drying them out. It’s perfect when your main course is running late.
Can these microwaves be built into a cabinet?
The NN-SN686S is specifically listed as “Built-in Ready.” You would need to purchase the matching Panasonic Trim Kit (check for the 27-inch or 30-inch kits) to ensure it has enough ventilation.
How loud are the beeps?
Both models have a standard microwave “beep.” It’s loud enough to hear from the next room but won’t wake up the whole house. Some users find the Panasonic beep persistent, but it’s the industry standard.
Does the 1.3 cu. ft. (SU696S) fit a large pizza?
It has a 13.4-inch turntable, which is plenty for a standard frozen pizza. However, remember that the height is only about 12 inches, so don’t plan on roasting a whole turkey in there.
Are these units easy to slide on the counter?
Because they are “lighter” than traditional microwaves, they can sometimes move when you press the door release. I found that placing a small non-slip silicone mat under the feet completely solves this issue.
