Panasonic NN-CD87KS Countertop Microwave Oven Review with Air Fryer and Convection Features

Description

Strengths of the Panasonic HomeChef 4-in-1 Microwave Oven

Testing the Panasonic HomeChef 4-in-1 Microwave Oven with Air Fryer, Convection Bake, FlashXpress Broiler, Inverter Microwave Technology, 1000W, I was immediately impressed by its versatility. This device is more than just a microwave; it’s a compact powerhouse that combines four appliances in one. The air fryer mode delivers crispy results without the guilt or the extra countertop clutter, while the convection bake function lets me roast a whole chicken or bake cookies with consistent heat. The FlashXpress broiler adds that perfect golden finish, something I’ve struggled to achieve with my previous microwave.

Here are some of the key advantages I noticed:

• Multiple cooking modes including microwave, air fry, broil, and convection bake for diverse meal prep.
• Smart inverter technology ensures even cooking and defrosting without overheating edges.
• Spacious 1.2 cubic feet interior fits large dishes like a whole chicken or multiple trays.
• Easy-to-clean stainless steel interior which wipes down without hassle after messy meals.

My family loves the healthier air-fried fries and crispy wings, and I appreciate how the Genius Sensor cooking adjusts power and time automatically. It’s like having a mini chef who knows exactly how long to cook each dish.

Drawbacks to Consider

Despite the many strengths, this multi-oven has several limitations that stood out during use. Its weight of nearly 40 pounds makes it quite a bulky appliance for a countertop device, which could be a concern if you like to rearrange your kitchen frequently. Also, the control panel, while loaded with preset options, can feel a bit overwhelming at first—especially for those who prefer simple, quick microwave use without diving through menus.

Some shortcomings include:

• The price point is on the higher side compared to traditional microwaves or single-function air fryers.
• The broiler function, although effective, sometimes requires trial and error to avoid overcooking.
• The footprint is small for what it offers, but still might be too large for very compact kitchens.
• Not all accessories, like the trim kit for built-in installation, come included and must be purchased separately.

My coworker who tried it found the cooking presets handy but wished for a more intuitive touchscreen interface. Also, the enamel tray, wire rack, and airfryer basket are great but need careful cleaning to maintain their condition.

Cooking Performance and Features

Diving deeper into performance, the 1000-watt inverter microwave technology makes a noticeable difference. Unlike older microwaves that often leave cold spots or overheat edges, this one cooked my leftovers evenly and defrosted frozen foods without partially cooking them. The Turbo Defrost setting is especially useful for thawing meats quickly and safely.

I enjoyed experimenting with the convection bake mode at temperatures up to 425°F, which is perfect for roasting vegetables or baking desserts. The FlashXpress broiler was a game-changer for toasting bread and melting cheese with grill-like results that usually require a separate appliance.

The air fryer mode is fantastic for those aiming for healthier cooking. It circulates hot air rapidly to produce that crispiness without extra oil. Making homemade fries and chicken wings became a healthier treat for my kids, who absolutely loved the texture. The fact that no preheating is required saves time, too.

Design and Usability

This microwave’s stainless steel exterior and interior give it a sleek, modern look that fits well in any kitchen style. The interior is large enough for family meals, thanks to the 14.2-inch turntable, which easily accommodates wide plates or roasting pans. Cleaning is a breeze; the smooth steel surface wipes clean in seconds after cooking greasy foods.

I did find the control interface a bit complex initially, with 20 automatic cook menu presets that can be confusing if you want a quick meal. However, once familiar, the presets simplify cooking common dishes. The drop-down door opens smoothly and feels sturdy, making loading and unloading dishes easy.

Alternative Products to Consider

Comparing this multi-function microwave to alternatives like the Breville Combi Wave 3-in-1 or the Cuisinart Air Fryer Toaster Oven, a few distinctions emerge. The Panasonic excels in microwave inverter technology, offering more even cooking and defrosting than many rivals. Its true 1.2 cubic foot capacity also beats some competitors in accommodating larger dishes.

However, other brands sometimes provide more intuitive digital controls or slightly smaller footprints, making them better for tighter spaces. The Breville unit, for instance, has a more polished touchscreen and a slightly faster broiler, but it doesn’t include the Genius Sensor technology that helps automate cooking perfectly in the Panasonic.

In terms of air fryer capability, this model holds its own well, producing comparable crispiness and texture to standalone air fryers without taking up extra space. The price-performance ratio might lean more favorable for the Panasonic if you want an all-in-one device rather than juggling multiple appliances.

Price Worthiness and Value Assessment

Considering the price-to-quality ratio, this multi-oven offers solid value if you plan to use its full range of features. It replaces multiple kitchen devices—microwave, air fryer, broiler, and convection oven—saving countertop space and reducing clutter. The versatility alone justifies the investment for home cooks who enjoy experimenting or need quick, healthy options.

If you mostly reheat or cook simple meals, the cost might seem steep. However, the smart inverter technology and Genius Sensor cooking make it truly stand out, ensuring better results than basic microwaves. The included accessories like the enamel tray, wire rack, and airfryer basket add convenience without extra purchases.

My relatives who have used it appreciated the multi-functionality and reliability, noting it feels like a premium product that redeems itself through quality and performance.

Ease of Cleaning and Maintenance

I found maintaining the Panasonic easy due to its stainless steel interior, which resists stains and odors better than plastic-lined models. After frying chicken wings or baking brownies, a quick wipe with a damp cloth restored the interior to spotless condition. The removable turntable and accessories like the airfryer basket are dishwasher-safe, which simplifies cleanup further.

The exterior stainless steel does attract fingerprints but can be polished easily with a microfiber cloth. The wire rack and enamel tray require hand washing to avoid damage, but none of the cleaning steps felt laborious.

User Experience and Practicality

Using this appliance daily, I noticed how it fits into various cooking styles. It’s perfect for families needing quick meals but also for those who want to explore roasting or broiling without firing up a large oven. My kids enjoyed the novelty of air-fried snacks, and my spouse appreciated the even reheating of leftovers without drying them out.

The compact footprint saves space compared to having separate devices, though its size still demands a dedicated spot on the countertop. The controls take some getting used to, but the preset menus cover a wide range of foods from popcorn to pizza, making it accessible for less experienced cooks.

Overall, this multi-oven is a versatile kitchen companion that handles an array of tasks efficiently, with a few quirks that don’t overshadow its benefits.

Additional information