Panasonic NN-CD87KS

The Panasonic NN-CD87KS is a highly versatile countertop microwave oven that sets itself apart with its innovative four-in-one functionality, combining a microwave, convection oven, broiler, and air fryer into a single, sleek appliance. This makes it an ideal solution for kitchens short on space or for anyone looking to streamline their cooking process without sacrificing culinary capability. Far from being just another microwave, the NN-CD87KS offers a compelling blend of speed, precision, and multi-cook options, allowing you to defrost, reheat, bake, roast, grill, and crisp foods with remarkable efficiency. Its advanced inverter technology ensures even cooking, while features like sensor cooking and a spacious interior cater to a wide range of dishes, from weeknight meals to ambitious culinary projects. Whether you’re a busy professional seeking quick meal solutions or a home chef eager to experiment with diverse cooking methods, this Panasonic powerhouse aims to deliver a comprehensive cooking experience.

Feature / Product	Panasonic NN-CD87KS	Breville Combi Wave 3-in-1	Cuisinart CMW-200	Samsung MC12J8036CT	Toshiba ML-EC42PSS	GE JES2251SRSS	Farberware FMO12AHTBKN
Primary Function	4-in-1 MW, Convection, Broil, Air Fry	3-in-1 MW, Convection, Air Fry	Microwave Convection Option	4-in-1 MW, Convection, Broil, Air Fry	7-in-1 MW, Convection, Broil, Air Fry, Defrost, Keep Warm, Dehydrate	Microwave Sensor Cooking	Microwave Inverter Technology
Capacity	1.2 cu ft	1.1 cu ft	1.2 cu ft	1.2 cu ft	1.5 cu ft	2.2 cu ft	1.2 cu ft
Wattage Microwave	1000W	1100W	1000W	950W	1000W	1250W	1100W
Inverter Technology	Yes	Yes	No	Yes	Yes	No	Yes
Sensor Cooking	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Air Fry Function	Yes	Yes	No	Yes	Yes	No	No
Convection Function	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	No	No
Broiler Function	Yes	Yes	No	Yes	Yes	No	No
Dimensions approx.	20.3″ x 18.5″ x 12.8″	20.4″ x 18.8″ x 12.4″	20.5″ x 18.5″ x 12.8″	20.4″ x 17.9″ x 12.2″	21.8″ x 21.5″ x 12.9″	24.3″ x 19.4″ x 14.1″	20.5″ x 17.1″ x 12.8″
Key Differentiator	Comprehensive 4-in-1, sleek design	Quiet soft-close door, intuitive interface	Stainless steel interior, programmable options	Slim Fry technology, ceramic enamel interior	Dehydration, fermentation functions	Large capacity, powerful defrost	Budget-friendly inverter, auto menus
Buy on Amazon	Buy on Amazon	Buy on Amazon	Buy on Amazon	Buy on Amazon	Buy on Amazon	Buy on Amazon

The Panasonic NN-CD87KS isn’t just another kitchen appliance. it’s a testament to how far home cooking technology has evolved. In a world where space is a premium and time is a luxury, having a single unit that can handle the tasks of a microwave, a convection oven, a broiler, and an air fryer is a must. Think of it like this: instead of buying four separate gadgets, each hogging counter space and draining your wallet, you get one unified system that does it all. This isn’t about compromise. it’s about intelligent design and maximizing utility. The key here is its four-in-one versatility, making it a compelling choice for anyone from the culinary novice to the seasoned home chef. It’s about enabling you to roast a chicken, bake cookies, grill a steak, or crisp up some fries, all within the confines of a compact, countertop footprint.

Understanding the Four-in-One Advantage

The real magic of the Panasonic NN-CD87KS lies in its ability to seamlessly transition between different cooking modes, eliminating the need for multiple appliances. This isn’t just about saving space. it’s about convenience and efficiency.

Imagine being able to start reheating leftovers with the microwave function, then immediately switch to the convection oven to bake a fresh batch of cookies, and perhaps finish with the air fryer for some crispy onion rings.

This integrated approach simplifies meal preparation and expands your culinary repertoire without cluttering your kitchen.

• Microwave Functionality: At its core, the NN-CD87KS is a powerful microwave. With 1000 watts of cooking power and Panasonic’s proprietary Inverter Technology, it delivers consistent, even heating. Unlike traditional microwaves that use a pulsing on-and-off power delivery, Inverter Technology provides a continuous, variable power stream. This means food cooks more evenly, retains more nutrients, and avoids the common pitfalls of hot spots and cold centers.
  • Inverter Turbo Defrost: This feature is a lifesaver. Instead of partially cooking the edges while the center remains frozen, Inverter Turbo Defrost uses a unique sequence of power levels to thaw food quickly and thoroughly, preserving texture and flavor. No more rubbery edges on your chicken breasts or mushy spots on your ground beef.
  • Sensor Cooking: The NN-CD87KS includes a built-in sensor that detects moisture and humidity levels in your food. This allows the oven to automatically adjust cooking time and power levels for various dishes, from popcorn to casseroles. It takes the guesswork out of cooking, delivering optimal results every time.
• Convection Oven: This is where the NN-CD87KS truly shines as a multi-functional appliance. The convection feature circulates hot air throughout the oven cavity, just like a traditional oven. This uniform heat distribution is perfect for baking, roasting, and broiling.
  • Even Browning and Roasting: The fan-assisted heat ensures that your cakes rise evenly, your cookies bake consistently, and your roasted vegetables achieve that perfect caramelized finish. This is a significant upgrade from a basic microwave, allowing you to prepare dishes that traditionally require a full-sized oven.
  • Temperature Range: Typically, these units offer a wide temperature range, allowing for precise control over baking and roasting. This means you can confidently bake anything from delicate pastries to hearty roasts.
• Broiler/Grill Function: The built-in broiler element provides direct top-down heat, ideal for browning, toasting, and crisping. This feature is excellent for finishing dishes, melting cheese, or giving a nice crust to your meats.
  • Quick Finishing: Need to brown the top of a gratin or give a crispy edge to your lasagna? The broiler function makes it quick and easy without needing to preheat a separate broiler pan or your main oven.
  • Healthy Grilling: You can use it to grill smaller items like chicken tenders, fish fillets, or even sandwiches, providing a healthier alternative to pan-frying and a quicker option than an outdoor grill.
• Air Fryer Function: The integration of an air fryer is a massive bonus. This function uses intense, superheated air circulated by a powerful fan to crisp foods with little to no oil. It’s the healthier way to enjoy fried favorites.
  • Crispy Results: Achieve the satisfying crunch of deep-fried foods with significantly less fat. French fries, chicken wings, spring rolls, and even vegetables can be air-fried to golden perfection.
  • Reduced Oil Usage: This not only makes your meals healthier but also reduces cleanup and the overall cost of cooking oil.

The Power of Inverter Technology: More Than Just a Buzzword

You hear “Inverter Technology” thrown around a lot with modern microwaves, but what does it actually mean for your cooking? In the case of the Panasonic NN-CD87KS, it’s not just a marketing gimmick.

It’s a fundamental shift in how microwaves operate, leading to superior results.

Traditional microwave ovens use a magnetron that operates at full power or cycles on and off to achieve lower power levels.

This on-off pulsing can lead to uneven cooking, where some parts of the food are overcooked while others are still cold, especially when reheating or defrosting.

• Continuous, Even Heating: Inverter Technology, however, provides a continuous, constant stream of power at various settings. This means that when you set the microwave to 50% power, it truly delivers 50% power consistently throughout the cooking cycle, rather than cycling between 100% and 0%.
  • Better Texture and Flavor: This consistent power delivery prevents “hot spots” and “cold spots,” ensuring food cooks more uniformly. This is crucial for delicate foods like fish or sauces, which can easily overcook or separate with inconsistent power. It also means food retains more of its natural flavor and texture.
  • Nutrient Preservation: Studies suggest that continuous, lower-power cooking can help preserve more nutrients in food compared to high-power, intermittent heating. This is because less intense, more even heating is gentler on delicate vitamins and minerals.
• Faster, More Thorough Defrosting: This is arguably one of the most noticeable benefits. The Inverter Turbo Defrost system uses optimized power cycles to thaw food more quickly and evenly than conventional methods. You no longer end up with frozen centers and cooked edges. This saves time and ensures your ingredients are perfectly prepared for subsequent cooking.
• More Efficient Power Consumption: While often debated, Inverter Technology can be more energy-efficient in certain scenarios, especially when cooking at lower power settings for longer durations. The continuous power delivery reduces the surges associated with traditional on-off cycling.

Design and Aesthetics: Fitting into Modern Kitchens

Let’s be real, a kitchen appliance isn’t just about what it does. it’s about how it looks and fits into your space. The Panasonic NN-CD87KS typically boasts a sleek, stainless steel finish that complements most modern kitchen decors. Its countertop design means it’s readily accessible, but its compact footprint for a multi-functional unit is a huge plus.

• Space-Saving Footprint: Despite its four-in-one capabilities, the NN-CD87KS is designed to be a countertop appliance. While it’s not tiny, it’s considerably smaller than housing a separate microwave, toaster oven, and air fryer. This makes it an excellent choice for apartments, smaller homes, or anyone looking to declutter their kitchen.
• Intuitive Control Panel: Most Panasonic models in this class feature a clear, easy-to-use control panel with a combination of buttons, a dial, and an LED display. This design prioritizes user-friendliness, allowing you to select cooking modes, adjust times, and set temperatures without wrestling with complicated menus.
  • Pre-programmed Menus: The unit usually comes with a variety of pre-set cooking programs for popular foods like popcorn, pizza, vegetables, and more. These “one-touch” options simplify cooking and ensure consistent results for common items.
• Interior Lighting and Turntable: A bright interior light allows you to monitor your food’s progress, and a large, removable glass turntable ensures even heat distribution for microwave and convection cooking. The turntable is typically easy to remove for cleaning.
• Child Lock Feature: For households with little ones, a child lock feature is a crucial safety addition, preventing accidental operation.

Cooking Performance: What You Can Really Expect

It looks good and promises a lot, but how does the Panasonic NN-CD87KS actually perform in the trenches of daily cooking? This is where the rubber meets the road, and the integrated features really come into their own.

• Microwave Performance: As expected from a 1000W inverter microwave, it excels at reheating leftovers, defrosting meats, and cooking quick meals. The even heating from the inverter technology is noticeable, especially for foods that traditionally suffer from uneven microwave cooking, like soup or pasta. No more cold centers!
• Convection Baking and Roasting: This is a strong point. The convection function allows for genuine baking and roasting.
  • Baking: You can bake cookies, muffins, small cakes, and even bread. Expect results comparable to a smaller conventional oven – golden crusts and evenly cooked interiors. The circulating hot air prevents soggy bottoms or unevenly cooked tops.
  • Roasting: Small roasts, chicken pieces, potatoes, and vegetables come out beautifully roasted, with tender interiors and nicely browned exteriors. This is perfect for single servings or small family meals, eliminating the need to heat up a large oven.
• Broiler Performance: The broiler is effective for browning and crisping. It’s not going to replace a full-sized broiler for large cuts of meat, but for melting cheese on a casserole, crisping bread, or finishing a dish, it does an excellent job. Think of it as a super-powered toaster oven function for quick top-down heat.
• Air Fry Performance: This is often a make-or-break feature for multi-function appliances. The NN-CD87KS generally performs well as an air fryer for common items.
  • Fries and Nuggets: Expect crispy French fries, chicken nuggets, and frozen appetizers that mimic deep-fried textures with significantly less oil.
  • Vegetables: Roasted vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, or brussels sprouts get wonderfully crispy edges when air-fried.
  • User Tip: For best air frying results, avoid overcrowding the basket/tray and flip items halfway through cooking to ensure even crisping. While it won’t replicate a dedicated, high-capacity air fryer perfectly, it’s remarkably good for everyday use and small batches.

Cleaning and Maintenance: Keeping It Shipshape

Nobody loves cleaning kitchen appliances, but easy maintenance is a huge factor in the long-term usability of any device.

The Panasonic NN-CD87KS is designed with practical cleaning in mind.

• Stainless Steel Interior: Many multi-function units, including this one, feature a stainless steel interior. This is a big win for cleaning compared to painted interiors, as it’s more resistant to staining and easier to wipe down. Food splatters are less likely to bake onto the surface.
  • Wipe Down Regularly: For best results, wipe down the interior and exterior after each use with a damp cloth and mild detergent. This prevents food buildup and keeps the appliance looking new.
• Removable Turntable and Trays: The glass turntable and any additional racks or trays used for convection or air frying are typically removable and dishwasher-safe, or at least easy to hand wash in the sink. This makes cleanup significantly easier.
• Odor Management: With multi-functionality, especially air frying, odors can sometimes linger. Running a bowl of water with lemon slices in the microwave can help neutralize odors, and ensuring proper ventilation in your kitchen is always a good idea. Regular cleaning of the interior is the best defense against persistent smells.

Who is the Panasonic NN-CD87KS For?

This versatile appliance isn’t for everyone, but it hits a sweet spot for several types of users and kitchen setups.

• Space-Constrained Kitchens: If you live in an apartment, a small home, or simply have limited counter space, this unit is a godsend. It consolidates four essential cooking functions into one footprint, freeing up valuable real estate. You get the benefits of a convection oven and air fryer without buying separate, bulky appliances.
• Individuals or Small Families: For preparing meals for one, two, or even three people, the 1.2 cu ft capacity is often perfectly adequate. You can roast a small chicken, bake a batch of cookies, or air fry enough fries for a couple without firing up a large oven.
• Busy Professionals: The speed and versatility of the NN-CD87KS make it ideal for those with hectic schedules. Quick microwave meals, speedy air-fried snacks, or even a fast convection-baked dinner are all within reach, saving precious time.
• Home Cooks Looking for Versatility: If you enjoy experimenting with different cooking methods but don’t want to invest in multiple single-function appliances, this unit provides an excellent entry point into convection baking, roasting, and air frying. It encourages culinary exploration without overwhelming your kitchen.
• Anyone Seeking Healthier Cooking Options: The air fryer function is a major draw for those looking to reduce their oil intake. Enjoying crispy “fried” foods with significantly less fat is a clear advantage for health-conscious individuals.
• College Students or Dorm Dwellers: While perhaps a bit pricier than a basic microwave, the multi-functionality could be incredibly valuable for someone living in a dorm or small student apartment, allowing them to prepare a much wider range of meals.

Key Considerations Before Buying

While the Panasonic NN-CD87KS is a fantastic piece of kit, it’s important to have realistic expectations and consider a few points before making the leap.

• Capacity Limitations: At 1.2 cu ft, it’s not designed for cooking large holiday turkeys or multiple casseroles simultaneously. If you frequently cook for large gatherings, you’ll still need a full-sized oven. Think of it as a powerful secondary or primary appliance for smaller-scale cooking.
• Price Point: Multi-functional appliances typically come with a higher price tag than basic microwaves. While you’re getting four appliances in one, ensure the investment aligns with your budget and anticipated usage. Compare its cost to buying separate microwave, convection oven, and air fryer units. Often, the combined cost of separate decent quality units will exceed the NN-CD87KS.
• Learning Curve: While generally intuitive, mastering all four functions and their optimal uses might take a little practice. Familiarizing yourself with the different settings and experimenting with cooking times for various dishes will help you get the most out of the appliance. Don’t be afraid to read the manual!
• Ventilation: Like any convection or air frying appliance, the NN-CD87KS will vent hot air. Ensure it has adequate clearance around it on your countertop, especially from walls or cabinets, to prevent overheating and allow proper air circulation.
• Noise Level: Convection fans and air fryer fans can produce a noticeable hum. While generally not excessive, it’s something to be aware of if you are particularly sensitive to kitchen appliance noise.

In summary, the Panasonic NN-CD87KS offers a compelling package for anyone looking to maximize their kitchen’s potential while minimizing clutter.

Its four-in-one capabilities, backed by Panasonic’s reliable inverter technology, make it a powerful and versatile tool for everyday cooking and culinary experimentation.

It’s an investment in convenience and capability, empowering you to cook a wider variety of meals with greater efficiency and healthier outcomes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main functions of the Panasonic NN-CD87KS?

The Panasonic NN-CD87KS is a 4-in-1 appliance that combines a microwave, a convection oven, a broiler grill, and an air fryer into a single unit.

Does the Panasonic NN-CD87KS have inverter technology?

Yes, the Panasonic NN-CD87KS features Panasonic’s Inverter Technology, which provides a continuous, even stream of cooking power for consistent results and better food texture.

What is the capacity of the Panasonic NN-CD87KS?

The Panasonic NN-CD87KS typically has a capacity of 1.2 cubic feet, making it suitable for small to medium-sized dishes and everyday family meals.

Can I bake a cake in the Panasonic NN-CD87KS?

Yes, thanks to its convection oven function, you can bake cakes, cookies, muffins, and other baked goods in the Panasonic NN-CD87KS with results similar to a conventional oven.

Is the Panasonic NN-CD87KS good for air frying?

Yes, the Panasonic NN-CD87KS includes a dedicated air fryer function that uses superheated circulated air to crisp foods with little to no oil, offering a healthier alternative to deep frying.

What is the wattage of the microwave function?

The microwave function of the Panasonic NN-CD78KS operates at 1000 watts, providing efficient and fast cooking.

Does it come with a turntable?

Yes, the Panasonic NN-CD87KS comes with a removable glass turntable to ensure even heating and cooking during microwave and convection modes.

Is the interior easy to clean?

The interior is often made of stainless steel, which is generally easier to wipe clean and more resistant to stains compared to painted interiors.

Can I roast a whole chicken in it?

You can roast a small to medium-sized whole chicken in the Panasonic NN-CD87KS using its convection oven function, depending on the chicken’s dimensions and the oven’s internal space.

Does it have sensor cooking?

Yes, the NN-CD87KS typically includes a sensor cooking feature that automatically adjusts cooking time and power based on the food’s moisture levels. Toshiba ML2-EM09PA(BS)

What are the dimensions of the Panasonic NN-CD87KS?

While specific dimensions can vary slightly by model iteration, it’s generally around 20.3″ W x 18.5″ D x 12.8″ H, making it a countertop appliance.

Always check the specific product listing for exact measurements.

Is it noisy when operating?

Like most convection and air fryer appliances, it will produce some fan noise during operation, especially when using the convection or air fry modes, but it is generally within acceptable levels for a kitchen appliance.

Can it replace a conventional oven entirely?

No, while highly versatile, the NN-CD87KS has a smaller capacity than a full-sized conventional oven and is best suited for smaller meals or as a secondary cooking appliance, not a complete replacement for large-scale baking or roasting.

What is Inverter Turbo Defrost?

Inverter Turbo Defrost is an advanced defrosting feature that uses optimized power sequencing to thaw food quickly and more evenly than traditional methods, preventing cooked edges and frozen centers.

Does it come with accessories for air frying/convection?

Yes, it usually includes accessories like a wire rack and a baking tray to facilitate convection and air frying functions.

Can I use metal in the Panasonic NN-CD87KS?

Metal can be used when operating in convection, broiler, or air fry modes, but never when using the microwave function, as this can cause arcing and damage the appliance. Always refer to the user manual.

What kind of dishes can I air fry in it?

You can air fry a variety of foods such as French fries, chicken wings, nuggets, spring rolls, fish sticks, and many vegetables to achieve a crispy texture with minimal oil.

Does it require special electrical outlets?

No, the Panasonic NN-CD87KS typically plugs into a standard 3-prong 120V household electrical outlet.

How do I clean the exterior of the appliance?

For the stainless steel exterior, use a soft, damp cloth and a mild, non-abrasive cleaner. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive pads. LG LMV1764ST

Are there pre-programmed settings for common foods?

Yes, it comes with a variety of pre-programmed auto cook and reheat settings for popular items like popcorn, pizza, and beverages.

Is it suitable for a small apartment?

Absolutely, its multi-functional design makes it perfect for small apartments or kitchens with limited counter space, as it consolidates several appliances into one.

Does it have a child lock feature?

Yes, the Panasonic NN-CD87KS typically includes a child safety lock feature to prevent accidental operation.

How long does it take to preheat for convection cooking?

Preheat times for convection cooking will vary depending on the target temperature, but it generally preheats faster than a full-sized oven due to its smaller cavity size.

Can I make toast in the Panasonic NN-CD87KS?

While it has a broiler function that can brown bread, it’s not specifically designed as a toaster and may not achieve the same speed or evenness as a dedicated toaster.

What’s the main difference between this and a standard microwave?

The main difference is its multi-functionality: a standard microwave only microwaves, while the NN-CD87KS adds full convection oven, broiler, and air fryer capabilities.

How does the air fryer function work without oil?

The air fryer function works by circulating superheated air around the food at high speeds, creating a crisp, browned exterior similar to deep frying but using very little to no added oil.

Can I disable the turntable?

In most multi-function models, the turntable can be temporarily stopped or removed for certain non-microwave cooking functions, but it’s essential for even microwave cooking.

Is it energy efficient?

While specific energy consumption details depend on usage, its inverter technology contributes to more efficient power delivery compared to traditional microwaves, potentially saving energy over time.

Where can I find recipes specifically for this appliance?

You can often find compatible recipes in the user manual, on Panasonic’s official website, or by searching online for “convection microwave recipes” or “air fryer recipes” adapted for combination ovens. Honeywell TP70AWKNR [TP70AWKN, TP70WKN]

Is the Panasonic NN-CD87KS worth the investment?

For those seeking a versatile, space-saving appliance that can perform multiple cooking functions microwave, bake, roast, grill, air fry efficiently and with consistent results, the Panasonic NN-CD87KS is generally considered a worthwhile investment.