Panasonic NN-SD688S

1. Good Housekeeping

The Good Housekeeping Research Institute awards the Panasonic NN-SD688S a so-so grade of B-minus. Although editors say the microwave is well made and its sensors deliver "precise results," they also note that it is noisy and uses more energy than other microwaves.

Review: Panasonic Genius Prestige 1.2 cu. ft. Counter-Top Microwave Oven, Editors of the Good Housekeeping Research Institute

2. ConsumerReports.org

ConsumerReports.org currently has ratings for more than 55 countertop microwaves, including the Panasonic NN-SD688S. Testing procedures are very thorough, with results clearly outlined in a ratings chart. Each microwave is rated on noise, ease of use, heating evenness and defrosting performance.

Review: Recommended Microwave Ovens, Editors of ConsumerReports.org

3. Wired

Reviewer Bryan Gardiner gives the Panasonic NN-SD688S an overall rating of 7 out of 10, calling it a "de-icing wonder" and a stylish and affordable choice. However, Gardiner says that the microwave is loud and has a large footprint.

Review: Microwave Inverter Is a Dorm-Room Nuclear Option, Bryan Gardiner, Aug. 7, 2009

4. Apartment Therapy.com

Gregory Han of ApartmentTherapy.com, a home organization blog, is fairly impressed with the Panasonic NN-SD688S, saying it cooks evenly and "pops a mean bag of popcorn." Han also mentions that its "complex interface" has a learning curve.

Review: Re(al)view: Panasonic NN-SD688S Prestige Microwave, Gregory Han, Aug. 27, 2009

5. Amazon.com

Amazon.com has nearly 150 reviews for the Panasonic NN-SD688S, with an average rating of 4 stars out of 5. Most reviewers find it powerful, stylish and easy to use, but many complain that its display can be difficult to read. We also read many complaints about reliability, including a few alarming reports of overheating.

Review: Panasonic Prestige Microwave Oven, Contributors to Amazon.com