Panasonic NN-DF386B Combination Microwave vs Sharp R-961 Combination Microwave Oven (2026)

✍️ By the 247Verdict Editorial Team📅 Updated 05 October 2026

Which is better? We compared both on score, owner ratings, pros and cons.

Panasonic NN-DF386B Combination Microwave

9.0/10 Excellent

4.5★ (3,600 owners)

3-in-1 microwave, oven and grill, 1000W, 23L, inverter tech. The space-saving combination unit.

Full Review

Sharp R-961 Combination Microwave Oven

8.8/10 Great

4.4★ (6,800 owners)

900W, grill + convection, 40L, auto weight defrost. Sharp's large combination microwave.

Full Review

At a Glance

	Panasonic NN-DF386B Combination Microwave	Sharp R-961 Combination Microwave Oven
247Verdict Score	9.0/10	8.8/10
Owner Rating	4.5★ (3,600)	4.4★ (6,800)
Verdict	Excellent	Great
Power	1000W	900W + 3500W convection
Capacity	23L	40L (largest in comparison)

Quick Verdict

Both are strong choices, but the Panasonic NN-DF386B Combination Microwave edges ahead with a 9.0/10 vs 8.8/10. 3-in-1 microwave, oven and grill, 1000W, 23L, inverter tech. The space-saving combination unit. That said, the Sharp R-961 Combination Microwave Oven is worth considering if 900W, grill + convection, 40L, auto weight defrost. Sharp's large combination microwave. Check the current price on Amazon →

Pros & Cons Side by Side

Panasonic NN-DF386B Combination Microwave

Combines microwave, convection oven and grill in one space-saving unit
Inverter technology delivers even heating and proper defrosting
23L capacity fits dinner plates and small roasting dishes
Replaces a second oven for small kitchens and flats
Reliable Panasonic build with strong owner satisfaction

More expensive than a basic solo microwave
Combination controls have a learning curve
23L is mid-sized, not large

Sharp R-961 Combination Microwave Oven

40L cavity is the largest of any comparison combination microwave — handles full roasting tins
Auto weight defrost calculates defrost time from food weight input
Jet defrost mode defrosts in half standard microwave time
900W microwave + 3500W convection provides genuine oven-equivalent cooking
Sharp's 50+ year microwave manufacturing heritage

900W is lower than Panasonic's 1000W inverter — slightly less efficient heating
No flatbed — standard turntable limits maximum dish diameter
Control interface is less intuitive than Panasonic

FAQ

Which is better, Panasonic NN-DF386B or Sharp R-961 Combination?

Is the Panasonic NN-DF386B worth the extra cost?

Yes — Panasonic NN-DF386B Combination Microwave scores higher at 9.0/10 vs 8.8/10.

Who is the Panasonic NN-DF386B best suited to?

3-in-1 microwave, oven and grill, 1000W, 23L, inverter tech. The space-saving combination unit.

Who is the Sharp R-961 Combination best suited to?

900W, grill + convection, 40L, auto weight defrost. Sharp's large combination microwave.

What are the main downsides of each?

Panasonic NN-DF386B Combination Microwave: More expensive than a basic solo microwave; Combination controls have a learning curve. Sharp R-961 Combination Microwave Oven: 900W is lower than Panasonic's 1000W inverter — slightly less efficient heating; No flatbed — standard turntable limits maximum dish diameter.

Do owner ratings agree with our verdict?

Largely, yes — Panasonic NN-DF386B Combination Microwave sits at 4.5★ from 3,600 verified Amazon owners, and Sharp R-961 Combination Microwave Oven at 4.4★ from 6,800.

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