Panasonic NN-ST68QS Inverter Solo 32L 1000W Microwave - Stainless Steel vs 32 Litre 1000W Microwave - Black — Comparison

The Panasonic NN-ST68QS is a 32-litre solo microwave at £199 in stainless steel, with 1000W power, seven power levels, a Genius sensor reheat programme, 24 auto programmes and Inverter Technology. It has button controls, a timer and no preheat programmes, and measures 525mm wide, 310mm high and 310mm deep, weighing 11.3kg. The Panasonic NNST46KBBPQ is the black version at £189: also 32 litres and 1000W with seven power levels, but with 21 auto cook programmes, a touch control panel, preheat programmes and an intelligent weight sensor. Its size fields use a different unit format, so check the dimensions with the seller before buying.

Both use the same 32-litre cavity and 1000W output, so everyday cooking is similar. Buyers praise the stainless model's quality feel, its large interior that takes big plates and its quiet operation, and both models have a 30-second quick button that owners find handy. The black model's touch panel attracts most complaints: its display is described as hard to read, the interior light is weak, and one buyer found the instructions complicated. Several owners say the newer black unit is less intuitive than the older Panasonic they replaced.

Buyers of both describe Panasonic as dependable, with some replacing microwaves that lasted 15 to 25 years. The main caveat on the stainless model is that its buttons are small. The two differ mainly in finish, control style and programme count, so the £10 price gap is the main cost factor to weigh.

Bottom line: choose the NN-ST68QS if you want a stainless finish, Inverter Technology and a simpler button panel with sensor reheat, choose the NNST46KBBPQ if you prefer black, want preheat programmes and do not mind checking a harder-to-read display.