Which is better for a family of four?

The LG. Its 1.5 cu ft cavity and 1250 W handle larger dishes and reheat faster, and it costs $50 less at current prices.

Which defrosts more evenly?

Both use inverter power, which avoids the hot and cold spots of older microwaves. The Panasonic's Genius Sensor is the more established auto-defrost system, but the LG's Sensor Cook works the same way.

Is the Panasonic worth $50 more?

Only if you want its sensor cooking and proven reliability in a smaller footprint. On capacity, power and price, the LG wins.

Which is easier to clean?

The LG. Its EasyClean interior has an anti-bacterial coating that resists stains, and the glass touch panel wipes clean. The Panasonic has a plain interior and a membrane keypad.

Will the LG fit a large casserole dish?

Yes. The 1.5 cu ft cavity and hexagonal stabilizer ring support tall or heavy items on the turntable. The Panasonic's 1.3 cu ft is tighter.

Hard to say from specs. The Panasonic has a 1-year warranty and years of owner reports; the LG's warranty is not stated in its listing, so check it before buying.

Panasonic NN-SN686S Stainless Steel Microwave with Inverter Technology and Genius Sensor vs LG 1.5-Cubic-Foot Countertop Microwave

Buy the LG if you want the most microwave for the money: it is bigger, more powerful, and $50 cheaper at $129 at New Country Appliances as of November 5, 2026. Buy the Panasonic if you trust its longer track record and want Genius Sensor cooking in a smaller 1.3 cu ft body at $179 at BuyDig.com as of November 5, 2026. The Panasonic's price has swung between $179 and $253 in early November, so the LG is the steadier value right now.

Today the LG 1.5-Cubic-Foot Countertop Microwave costs $50.00 less at its best price.

Ask our shopping agent

It checks today's price at every store, compares the alternatives and answers in about a minute.