Panasonic HomeChef 4-in-1 Microwave Oven review with air fryer and convection features

Description

Elegant and Compact Design

The Panasonic HomeChef 4-in-1 Microwave Oven (NN-CD87KS) instantly caught my attention with its sleek stainless steel finish and compact design. It fits perfectly on my countertop without overwhelming the space, and the 22”W x 13.5”H x 17.7”D dimensions make it surprisingly space-saving for a unit that offers so many functions. The 1.2 cubic feet capacity with a 14.2” turntable accommodates a wide variety of dishes, from reheating last night’s leftovers to roasting an entire chicken. I also noticed how the stainless-steel interior makes it easier to clean; just a quick wipe, and it looks brand new again.

Versatility: Four Appliances in One

I’ve used this multi-functional appliance in every way possible—microwave, air fryer, convection oven, and broiler. It’s like having four separate appliances without the clutter. The air fryer mode was impressive; I tested it with chicken wings and sweet potato fries, and they came out crispy without the guilt of using oil. The FlashXpress Broiler is a nice touch too, giving me that perfect toasty layer on casseroles. For heavier tasks like baking, the convection mode heats up to 425°F, making cookies and even a small batch of brownies turn out beautifully. Switching between these modes was seamless thanks to the intuitive controls.

Smart Cooking Features

This isn’t just a microwave with extra features; it’s genuinely intelligent. The Genius Sensor Cook setting adjusts cooking time and temperature based on the food’s moisture. I’ve tested this feature with frozen vegetables and reheated pizza, and it nailed the texture every time. The Turbo Defrost also works wonders, defrosting chicken breasts evenly without partially cooking them. These smart functions remove a lot of guesswork from cooking, especially when trying out new recipes.

Key Benefits

• Multifunctionality: Combines four appliances into one compact unit.
• Advanced Cooking Options: Features like Genius Sensor Cook and Turbo Defrost enhance convenience.
• Space-Saving Design: Fits well in tight kitchen spaces without compromising on capacity.
• Healthier Cooking: Air fryer mode delivers crispy results with little to no oil.

Areas of Concern

While I found the Panasonic HomeChef to be mostly excellent, there are a few less favorable aspects to consider:

• Learning Curve: The variety of modes and settings can be overwhelming initially.
• Noise Level: The fan during convection mode is slightly louder than expected.
• Limited Accessories: The included air fryer basket and enamel tray are helpful but feel limited for diverse cooking needs.

Despite these minor drawbacks, the positives far outweigh the negatives in my experience.

Ease of Use

Navigating the controls took some getting used to, but once I got the hang of it, I realized how well-designed the interface is. The 20 automatic cook menu presets simplify everyday tasks, whether I’m making popcorn or defrosting meat. I also liked the option to combine cooking modes, like Convection + Microwave, for faster and more efficient results. The Drop app, which provides recipes tailored to the product, was a unique touch. It’s almost like having a virtual sous chef!

Peer Products

When comparing this appliance to others like the Breville Combi Wave 3-in-1 or the Toshiba ML-EC42P, the Panasonic HomeChef stands out for its air fryer capability and compact design. While competitors like Breville offer slightly quieter operation, they lack the same all-in-one functionality. Toshiba’s model comes close in terms of price-to-quality ratio, but its bulkier build and fewer automatic presets make it less appealing for smaller kitchens.

That said, if you prioritize intelligent cooking features and a streamlined footprint, this product edges out its rivals.

Value for Money

Given its versatility, the Panasonic HomeChef 4-in-1 offers excellent value for money. Owning separate appliances for air frying, microwaving, broiling, and convection baking would cost more in both money and space. While it’s not the cheapest option on the market, the combination of advanced cooking settings, smart technology, and a durable build justifies the price for me. It feels like a long-term investment that simplifies daily cooking tasks without cutting corners on quality.

Additional information