The Panasonic NN-SU656B delivers 1.3 cu ft of usable interior and 1100 W of output in a compact black enclosure at $252.15, supported by 3,400 reviews and a 4.3-star rating. It is a dependable mid-size choice from a brand with a proven microwave track record.
Households that want a step up in interior size from the compact 0.7-0.9 cu ft budget models without jumping to a full-size 2.0+ cu ft unit. The black finish suits dark or two-tone kitchen designs, and the 1.1 lb advantage over similar units makes it easier to reposition.
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Cooks who need more than 3 power levels will find the control options limited here. Anyone wanting a stainless steel finish, a large turntable for oversized dishes, or a more feature-rich button layout should consider other Panasonic models in this silo.
Capacity 1.3 cu ft
Heating Electric
Wattage 1100 W
Power levels 3
Installation Countertop
Controls Buttons
Capacity of 1.3 cu ft - larger than 70% of the 84 models we track
Power levels of 3 - lower than 85% of the 84 models we track
Weight of 35.3 lb - heavier than 65% of the 84 models we track
Our scorecard
4.3/5overall
Owner rating4.3/5
4.3 average across 3,400 owner ratings
Value for money2.7/5
$194 per cubic foot, below the category median
Popularity4.3/5
3,400 owner reviews, more than most models here
Storage space3.7/5
1.3 cu ft, roomy for this category
The overall score is owner satisfaction weighted by how many reviews back it, so a high rating from few reviews counts for less. The bars below show where this model stands against the other kitchen ranges, cooktops, wall ovens, range hoods and microwaves we track in this category on price, popularity and size. Context, not marks against it, and our read of the data, not a lab test.
Overview
The NN-SU656B sits in a practical middle ground within the Panasonic countertop lineup. At 1.3 cu ft it provides enough room for most standard servings and side dishes, while the 1100 W output is sufficient for everyday reheating and quick cooking. The 12.4-inch turntable fits most dinner plates, though it is slightly smaller than the 13-inch tables found in competing mid-size units.
Panasonic rates this unit at 3 power levels, which is on the lower end for a $252 microwave. That limited gradation means less fine-tuned control for tasks like melting butter or defrosting proteins gently, though the three positions cover the most common use cases of full power, medium, and low.
Button controls are simple and reliable. The 35.3 lb weight is manageable. With 3,400 reviews at 4.3 stars, this unit has genuine credibility in its price band. The black exterior is an intentional design choice that integrates cleanly into kitchens with darker appliances or cabinetry.
Pros
4.3 stars from 3,400 reviews confirms consistent real-world performance
1.3 cu ft interior fits most standard household servings and dishes
1100 W output handles daily reheating tasks efficiently
Black finish suits dark-themed kitchen designs
35.3 lb weight is practical for a unit of this size
Cons
Only 3 power levels limits precision control for delicate foods
12.4-inch turntable is smaller than some competing 1.3 cu ft models
At $252.15, pricing is higher than several well-rated alternatives at this capacity
Specifications
Capacity
1.3 cu ft
Heating
Electric
Wattage
1100 W
Power levels
3
Installation
Countertop
Controls
Buttons
Color
Black
Turntable
12.4 in
Weight
35.3 lb
Voltage
120 Volts
Performance notes
With 1100 W and a 1.3 cu ft cavity, this Panasonic handles everyday tasks like reheating leftovers, boiling water, and steaming vegetables without issue. The 12.4-inch turntable is sized for standard 10-12 inch plates. Three power levels means you work with full, medium, and low modes rather than the fine-grained control of 10-14 level units. Button controls are tactile and easy to operate.
What buyers say
A 4.3-star average across 3,400 purchases is a strong result and reflects the kind of consistent positive experience that comes from a well-engineered, reliable unit. Buyers at this volume have collectively experienced the unit through daily use, suggesting it holds up over time and performs predictably for common microwave tasks.
Is the NN-SU656B the same as the NN-SN686S just in black?
They are related Panasonic models but have different specs. The NN-SU656B runs at 1100 W with 1.3 cu ft and 3 power levels. The NN-SN686S runs at 1480 W with 1.2 cu ft and 10 power levels. They differ in wattage, power level count, and interior size despite similar pricing.
Can I use a 12-inch plate in this microwave?
The turntable is 12.4 inches in diameter. A 12-inch plate will fit but with very little clearance. If your plates are on the larger side of 12 inches, expect them to be tight or potentially catch the interior walls during rotation. Plates closer to 10-11 inches will spin freely without issue.
What tasks are the 3 power levels suitable for?
The three settings cover the most common scenarios: full power for standard reheating and cooking, a medium setting for gentle warming and some defrost scenarios, and low for keeping food warm or very slow defrosting. If you frequently melt chocolate, proof dough, or do precise custard warming, a unit with 10-14 power levels would give you more control.
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