The Panasonic NN-SV79MS 1200W 1.4 cu.ft. Inverter Microwave Oven has garnered a mix of appreciation and criticism from its users. Most customers appreciate its Alexa integration, which makes the microwave incredibly convenient, especially for those with vision impairments. The smart inverter technology has been praised for heating food evenly and accurately, providing consistent results every time. Many users have highlighted the convenience of controlling the microwave through voice commands, especially since it doesn’t come with a typical numeric keypad. The sensor cooking function is often cited as one of the most valuable features, as it automatically adjusts cooking times and power levels for a variety of dishes, ensuring optimal cooking results without the need for manual input.
In addition to these features, users appreciate the compact size of the microwave, which fits well into small kitchens while still delivering powerful performance. The quiet operation is another feature that has been praised, as it makes using the microwave a more pleasant experience, especially in households where noise can be a concern. Users also like the modern design, which not only looks stylish but also makes it easy to operate, thanks to its simple layout and well-placed controls. The logarithmic time set dial is particularly appreciated for its intuitive operation, allowing users to quickly set cooking times with ease.
However, the microwave also has some drawbacks. Some users have found the build quality to be lacking, with complaints about buttons sticking and issues with the power cord. The clock feature is another frequent point of contention, as it does not remain displayed after cooking, which some users find inconvenient. There are also concerns about the Alexa connection stability, as it occasionally disconnects, requiring manual reconnection. Despite these drawbacks, a majority of reviewers still find the Panasonic NN-SV79MS to be a worthwhile investment, particularly for its smart features and powerful performance. Overall, the microwave offers a combination of advanced technology and convenience that appeals to a wide range of users.
PROS
- Alexa Integration: Many customers love the ease of controlling the microwave through voice commands with Alexa. One user said, “I love being able to just say, ‘Alexa, heat for 30 seconds,’ without touching any buttons.” This feature has made the microwave particularly popular among users with low vision, as it removes the need for navigating a keypad. Users also appreciate that the voice commands make multitasking in the kitchen easier, allowing them to focus on other tasks while the microwave operates.
- Inverter Technology: The microwave uses inverter technology, which ensures even cooking and efficient defrosting. One user noted, “The defrost sensor mode is amazing; my food is perfect every time.” The consistent heating and smooth power adjustments are significant upgrades compared to traditional microwaves. This technology prevents overcooking or cold spots, making it ideal for a variety of cooking tasks, from reheating leftovers to defrosting frozen items.
- Smart Design: The overall design of the microwave is described as modern and easy to use. Several users appreciated the logarithmic time set dial, allowing users to quickly set cooking times with precision by adjusting the spin speed. “Spin slowly to go to 20 sec, spin a little faster and you’re at 2 minutes — brilliant design,” one review highlighted. The minimalist button layout also reduces clutter and makes the microwave easier to clean, which adds to the overall user experience.
- Quiet Operation: Several users have mentioned that the microwave runs quietly, which is a significant plus for those who dislike the loud hum of typical microwaves. One customer said, “This is one of the quietest microwaves I have ever used.” The quiet operation makes it suitable for open-concept living spaces, where excessive noise could be disruptive.
- Easy to Clean: Users have praised the microwave for its easy-to-clean interior. The smooth surfaces and simple design make wiping down the inside a breeze, which is a convenience many appreciate. The stainless-steel interior also resists stains and odors, making it easier to maintain over time, which is particularly important for those who use their microwave frequently.
- Multiple Cooking Modes: The microwave offers several cooking modes, including defrost, reheat, and sensor cook, which adjust the power and time automatically for different types of food. Users have found these modes to be highly convenient, eliminating the guesswork involved in setting cooking times and ensuring that food is cooked properly every time.
CONS
- Clock Does Not Stay On: One of the most frequently mentioned issues is that the clock display does not stay on after a few minutes of inactivity, which can be frustrating for users who rely on this feature. “Why have a clock if it turns off after 3 minutes? I had to put a separate wall clock in the kitchen,” one customer commented. This issue has been particularly bothersome for users who are used to having a visible clock in their kitchen.
- Build Quality Concerns: Some customers have expressed disappointment in the build quality of the microwave. One user mentioned that “the button started sticking within weeks,” while another noted that their unit “came without a power cord installed,” which required a return. These issues highlight some inconsistencies in manufacturing, which can be a concern for those looking for a long-lasting appliance. There have also been reports of the door mechanism feeling flimsy, which has led to doubts about the microwave’s durability over time.
- Alexa Connection Issues: A few users found the Alexa integration to be unreliable, with occasional connection drops. “Sometimes the Alexa connection is slow or drops, which means I have to manually reconnect,” reported one reviewer. This has been a source of frustration, especially for those who bought the microwave primarily for its smart capabilities. Users have suggested that a more stable connection or a dedicated app update could help resolve these issues.
- Dim Interior Light: Some users have noted that the interior light is not bright enough, making it difficult to see the food while it is cooking. “The interior light is quite dim compared to my previous microwave, which makes checking on food a bit challenging,” one user commented. This can be an inconvenience, especially when trying to monitor cooking progress without opening the door and interrupting the process.
- Complex Manual: A few users have mentioned that the instruction manual is complex and difficult to follow, especially for those who are not tech-savvy. “The manual is quite lengthy and not very user-friendly,” one customer noted. This has made the initial setup and learning process more challenging for some, detracting from the otherwise user-friendly design of the microwave.
Who Should Buy?
The Panasonic NN-SV79MS is ideal for individuals who are seeking a smart kitchen upgrade with voice command functionality. It is particularly well-suited for users with low vision or mobility challenges, as the Alexa integration allows for hands-free control. Additionally, anyone who appreciates precise cooking controls and the latest in inverter technology for consistent heating will find this microwave to be a great addition to their kitchen. Its compact size also makes it a good choice for those with limited counter space who do not want to compromise on power. However, those who prioritize a built-in clock or expect highly durable build quality may need to consider other options, as some aspects of the design may fall short of expectations.
This microwave is also suitable for tech enthusiasts who enjoy integrating smart devices into their home. The ability to control cooking through voice commands adds an element of convenience that is especially useful for multitaskers. Families who want a microwave that is both powerful and versatile will also benefit from the multiple cooking modes and efficient performance of this unit.
Do Users Recommend This Product?
Most users recommend the Panasonic NN-SV79MS due to its smart features and advanced cooking technology. The convenience of voice control, sensor cooking, and consistent heating performance has impressed many. Users appreciate how the smart integration simplifies cooking tasks and the way inverter technology improves cooking results, making it easy to achieve perfect results without manual adjustments. The quiet operation and compact design are also highly valued, particularly by those with open-concept kitchens or limited space.
However, some users are deterred by the build quality issues and the absence of a constant clock display, which impacts the overall experience for them. The Alexa connection problems have also been a point of frustration for some, but many users are hopeful that software updates will improve the reliability of this feature. Despite these downsides, the general sentiment is positive, especially among those who value smart home integration and are looking for a microwave that can keep up with their modern lifestyle. The advanced features, combined with the intuitive design, make this microwave a popular choice for those looking for both functionality and convenience in their kitchen appliances.
