Panasonic Countertop Microwave Oven 1.2 Cu Ft
- Capacity: 1.2 cu ft
- Turntable Diameter: 13.4 inches
- Heating Method: Electric
- Installation Type: Countertop
Last refreshed Jun 13, 2026 · Based on the Amazon listing and published specifications, not hands-on testing.
A capable 1200 watt inverter microwave with a track record of durability among longtime Panasonic owners, though a documented recurring error on other Panasonic units is worth knowing about.
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ASIN: B01DEWZUG4Model: NN-SN686SCategory: Countertop Microwave Ovens
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Overview
The Panasonic NN-SN686S is a 1200 watt, 1.2 cubic foot countertop microwave built around inverter technology for steadier heating and a Genius Sensor that adjusts cook time automatically. It suits anyone replacing an older microwave who wants more even reheating and defrosting.
This is a mid-size countertop microwave built around Panasonic's inverter circuitry, which delivers a continuous lower-power stream instead of cycling full power on and off. That's the real differentiator from cheaper microwaves, not a bigger cavity or extra buttons.
- 1200 watts, 1.2 cubic foot capacity
- 13.4 inch turntable, 340mm diameter
- 14 preset auto-cook menu items
- Countertop or built-in installation
Who it's for
Suits anyone replacing an aging countertop microwave who wants steadier heat and a sensor that adjusts cook time on its own. Less suited to buyers wanting a large family-size cavity or an over-the-range install.
Pros and cons
- Inverter circuitry gives steady, even heating
- Genius Sensor auto-adjusts time by food type
- Turbo defrost thaws food without overcooking edges
- Keep warm holds soups and sides until served
Performance notes
The Genius Sensor reads steam output to adjust cook time automatically across the 14 preset menu items, and 10 manual power levels are available for direct control. Turbo defrost runs on the same inverter circuitry to speed thawing specifically.
Specifications
| Brand | Panasonic |
|---|---|
| Model | NN-SN686S |
| Dimensions & fit | |
| Turntable Diameter | 13.4 incheshigher than 61% of 47 countertop microwave ovens |
| Item Dimensions D x W x H | 15.8 × 20.7 × 12.2 inches |
| Capacity & performance | |
| Capacity | 1.2 cu fthigher than 61% of 94 countertop microwave ovens |
| Heating Method | Electric |
| Defrost System Type | Defrost |
| Power & efficiency | |
| Number of Power Levels | 10 |
| Energy Consumption | 1200 wattshigher than 64% of 67 countertop microwave ovens |
| Voltage | 120 volts |
| Construction & materials | |
| Inner Material | Stainless Steel |
| Material Type | Stainless Steel |
| Color | Stainless Steel / Silver |
| Compatibility & installation | |
| Installation Type | Countertop |
| Included components | |
| Unit Count | 1 |
| Included Components | Microwave |
| Other details | |
| Number of Programs | 14 |
| Control Type | Touch |
| Timer Function | Timer Function Available |
| Frequency | 2450 MHz |
| Recommended Uses For Product | Residential |
| Additional Features | Child Safety Lock |
| Item Type Name | Microwave |
Closest rivals on specs
Frequently asked questions
Does the Panasonic NN-SN686S use inverter technology?
Yes, it uses Panasonic's inverter technology with turbo defrost for continuous, even power delivery.
Can the NN-SN686S be built into a cabinet?
It is rated for both countertop and built-in use.
How does the Genius Sensor work on this Panasonic microwave?
It automatically adjusts power and cook time based on the food being prepared, across 14 preset menu items.