Panasonic vs Sage Microwaves

Panasonic and Sage both have premium-leaning models, but their strengths differ. Panasonic's NN-CF87LBBPQ is a 31-litre, 3-in-1 combination microwave with 1000W and 32 auto programmes at £509, while the NNSF464MBPQ is a 27-litre, 1000W inverter solo microwave at £199. Sage's Combi Wave 3 in 1 starts at £349 with 32 litres, 1100W and air fry, while the Compact Wave Soft Close is £179 for 25 litres and 800W.

Panasonic's inverter technology provides continuous power, and the NNSF464MBPQ's lack of a turntable frees up more usable space. The NN-CF87LBBPQ adds combination cooking, which is the closest match to Sage's Combi Wave, whose air fry function is its main selling point. The Sage Compact Wave adds a soft close door and six auto button programmes, while Panasonic's programmes run from 9 to 32 depending on the model. Power is similar, and the Combi Wave's 1100W is the highest figure in this pairing. Those who only need reheating will find the Compact Wave's £179 price sufficient.

Panasonic suits buyers who want inverter cooking and a combination oven at a mid-range price, particularly households that bake and grill at home. Sage suits people who want an air fryer built into their microwave, or a soft close countertop unit for a flat with limited space. The NN-CF87LBBPQ costs £160 more than the Combi Wave's starting price of £349, so buyers should decide whether combination control and inverter cooking justify the difference. Panasonic's solo models offer the lowest route in, at £199 for the NNSF464MBPQ.

Bottom line: choose Panasonic if you want inverter cooking and a 3-in-1 combination at £509, or a 27-litre solo microwave for £199 with no turntable. Choose Sage if you want air frying built into a countertop unit from £349, or a soft close Compact Wave at £179.