Head to head
Breville BMO870 vs Panasonic NN-SN686S (2026)
Breville Combi Wave vs Panasonic NN-SN686S: convection and air fry versatility vs pure 1200W inverter microwaving, footprint, and counter depth compared.
Breville Combi Wave 3 in 1 BMO870 vs Panasonic Microwave Oven with Inverter Technology NN-SN686S: the specs, side by side
| Spec | Breville Combi Wave 3 in 1 BMO870 | Panasonic Microwave Oven with Inverter Technology NN-SN686S |
|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 1.2 cu ft, 32 L | 1.2 cu ft |
| Power | 1100 watts microwave | 1200 watts |
| Dimensions | 20.4 x 18.5 x 12.5 inches | 20.7 x 15.8 x 12.2 inches |
| Weight | 32 lb | 25.3 lb |
| Warranty | 1 year limited | 1 year limited, 5 year magnetron |
BrevilleBreville Combi Wave 3 in 1 BMO870
Microwave, convection oven, and air fryer in one premium unit.
- Capacity: 1.2 cu ft, 32 L
- Power: 1100 watts microwave
Sources: Breville official product specifications, Major retailer product listings, Published kitchen gear reviews
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PanasonicPanasonic Microwave Oven with Inverter Technology NN-SN686S
1.2 cubic foot inverter microwave with Genius Sensor and 14 presets.
- Capacity: 1.2 cu ft
- Power: 1200 watts
Sources: Panasonic official product specifications, Major retailer product listings, Published kitchen gear reviews
Check price on Amazonor add to your Amazon cartOur recommendation
Choose the Breville if counter space must cover microwaving, roasting, and air frying in one premium unit. Choose the Panasonic if you want the best pure microwave, lighter and simpler, and already own an oven you like.
Cooking modes
Breville adds convection bake, air fry, and Fast Combi blending to full microwave duty. Panasonic is microwave only, focused on inverter cooking, sensor presets, and keep warm.
Microwave performance
Panasonic offers 1200 watts with inverter steadiness. Breville offers 1100 watts microwave power with smart sensor programs and notably gentle settings for melting and softening.
Footprint and ownership
The Breville is deeper at 18.5 inches and heavier at 32 lb, with accessories to store and more surfaces to clean after roasting. The Panasonic is 15.8 inches deep and 25.3 lb, a simpler daily wipe down.
Controls, noise, and learning curve
The Breville dial plus screen interface is powerful, and owners agree it takes a week to learn, while the Panasonic relies on a button pad that requires firm presses but centers on Genius Sensor presets most households learn in a day.
Noise character differs too. The Breville pairs a soft close door with muted tones and quieter operation, daily pleasures owners praise, while the Panasonic is known for clear, louder beeps with no mute mode. In an open plan home at night, that difference is felt on every late reheat.
What you give up with each choice
Choosing either model means accepting a clear omission. Pick the Panasonic and you give up crisping entirely, because it has no convection or air fry modes, so fries and roast chicken still need another appliance. Pick the Breville and you give up the Panasonic inverter delivery and its higher 1200 watt microwave rating.
The ownership omissions run the same way. The Panasonic is microwave only, so there are no extra pans to store and cleaning stays a cavity wipe. The Breville asks for trivet and pan storage and more cleaning after roasting or air frying fatty foods. The right choice is the omission your weekly cooking will notice least often at home.
Choose Breville Combi Wave 3 in 1 BMO870 if…
- You lack room for separate appliances
- You roast and air fry for one to three people
- You value soft close, quiet, premium design
Choose Panasonic Microwave Oven with Inverter Technology NN-SN686S if…
- You mainly reheat, defrost, and cook vegetables
- You want inverter evenness at full microwave focus
- You prefer a lighter, simpler unit
FAQ
Questions, answered straight
Does the Breville microwave as well as the Panasonic?
Very closely for everyday jobs. The Panasonic edges delicate defrosting with inverter delivery and higher microwave wattage.
Can the Breville replace my toaster oven?
For most roasting and air fry jobs, yes. Dedicated ovens still fit wider trays and toast bread better.
Which is better for a dorm or office?
The Panasonic: simpler, lighter, and with no hot convection exterior concerns in shared spaces.