Panasonic NN-ST641W / NN-ST651W
Verified129 reviews
Exploded while not in use after least 8 years (maybe 9) – I've had this microwave for at least 8 years, potentially 9.5 based on photos of it in my unit. It has always been pretty good in how it works/cools down. I've always liked its features and options. Today unfortunately, almost 2 hours after we used it last, it was off but still plugged in, we just heard a 'pop pop' and then got up to notice it… Read more · 1
was smoking (15mins before we were going to go to bed). There was no lighting or power surge around at the time, no other appliances effected, it randomly just gave up the ghost! Hoping this isn't a big fire hazard waiting to happen, will be in touch with Panasonic tomorrow.
Nearly 10 years old and serving us well – We bought this microwave oven on 27 Dec 2013 to replace our one that had died. Ten years on and it's still working. It's easy to use, the pre-programmed keys are accurate and work well and it has never let us down. The only reason we didn't give it 5/5 is that it has suffered from a little corrosion on the interior roof near the vent. It's also a tad noisy. But otherwise we have no complaints about this machine, it's been great. Show details
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Helping an old friend in the kitchen and found this extremely rusty Panasonic microwave. Panasonic has just plummeted in my respect because of this dangerous product which based on other reviews is using a cheap coating. This microwave is so badly damaged it will lead to microwaves escaping the shell. Looking at the images you can see the… Read more
microwaves is arcing on the shell! Panasonic do you think it's ok for your customers to throw out the product? I guess you don't care about the environment either.
Reviews with attachments
Ok but – Works great but have issues with the powder coating coming off and rusting where the wheels run around inside. Show details
In-depth reviews
Beware Panasonic microwave consumers – I have just had to discard another Panasonic microwave after 3 years due to rust. The previous microwave, also around the 3 year period of use, developed rust on one side of cavity and this time there is rusting and buckling of paint on the roof of cavity near the outlet. This was another Panasonic model. Contacting Panasonic I was advised to send… Read more
photos which I did. The photos displayed the 2 sides, back and floor of cavity to be in showroom condition due to my care of appliances. Panasonic's response to these photos was "rust or peeling paint as shown in the supplied photos is not a product of the manufacturing process and usually occurs due to a number of reasons that are beyond the control of Panasonic. What rubbish!! Of course it is in their control and their response was ill thought out. I have had a few Panasonic microwaves beginning in 1986 and only changed them for updated models after approx 7 years. There were no internal problems. The only obvious reason for the current problems are the materials used in the process of manufacture are now of very low grade and rust quite easily. Like many companies, Panasonic are more interested in profits than consumer quality and satisfaction. Well, they have lost one very loyal customer, not just for microwaves but I will extend that to TVs and sound systems. I have now purchased another well known brand name and should this microwave produce the same result within 3 years I may as well buy the cheaper units sold in large chain stores. They could not be any worse than my experience with the previous 2 Panasonic models. Should any consumer read my review, along with many other negative reviews re Panasonic microwaves, then proceed to purchase one may I suggest you look in a mirror and you will see a reflection of someone very unwise.
Hi Searcher, thank you for your feedback, we do… Read more (+1 reply)
Simple design, faster cooking, and big dishes available but a bit noisy – I bought this microwave for $149 from Costco sale. Generally, before I buy a product I use to research a lot especially web surfing. my microwave has been used for 8 years without any trouble. And this time also, I liked to buy the same quality microwave. I read many reviews and checked specifications but when I found this microwave's price… Read more
and model in Costco, I misunderstood this as what I kept in mind model. I was happy to buy what I want to.
After 2 weeks, I realized this microwave was not what I want to buy. I was disappointed but I and my family didn't feel any inconvenient to use this model. Only one thing is different from the previous model. After using this microwave, this does cooling forced automatically with noisy sound. I have no idea why it needs auto cooling because I think it will be cooled naturally.
Actually, there are no cons except only this forced auto cooling with a loud sound. I am trying to think this operation as a good preparation to use for next cooking continuously. A big benefit is faster cooking than the previous due to big watt. If you want a cheaper but good performance microwave, this will be good for you.
Recently Bought – When I came on site to review this Microwave, I was surprised at the negative comments made against it. First off, I have to say I have only had this microwave a week or so, and all is fine, so far. In the first place I bought an LG model, which managed to heat a can of baked beans (in a glass jug) and whilst attempting on it's second use to heat… Read more
a few frozen vegetables (with water in the container), it expired. Made all the noises of cooking, but otherwise dead. So, the Panasonic was the only alternative Harvey Norman had, that they had stock of, for about $49 more.
I haven't tried any elaborate cooking, just heating - which it does quickly. I wondered what "Inverter" meant, so here is an explanation - Inverter technology allows you to use your microwave with greater control than ever before. Conventional microwave ovens operate on only one power level – the microwave energy is either on or off. This on/off delivery of cooking power results in cold spots and overcooked edges. Panasonic Inverter technology delivers graduated power sequences so food is cooked more evenly, preserving texture and flavor, and helps to prevent spill-overs and burnt edges.
As you will probably have read, the oven has Turbo Defrost, auto cook with 12 menu programs, auto reheat, child proof lock, - and it looks really modern. I should mention that we have a similar model at work in the Staff kitchen, and it used by many, every day, and has been totally reliable. In fact there are 2 Panasonic microwaves in the kitchen, of different models, and both are very good. Neither are particularly loud, - but what the heck, when they are only used for minutes at a time. Both of the microwaves mentioned have very simple settings you could use instinctively, without reading the instruction book.
Positive reviews
Good microwave – The microwave guide cover started to smoulder and flame the other day, possibly due to absorbing too many fats and oils over the 7 years I've had it, straight swap out, no problem. I've also had to change the bulb out, which requires taking the cover off. Otherwise heats food evenly. Love the induction functionality. Show details
Best Microwave I ever had – I bought this micro wave 7 years ago and use it a lot each and everyday, and still going strong. Will definitely buy another one when this one blows up Show details
My perfect microwave – My previous microwave lasted me 25 years so I went for another Panasonic & love it. I'd just bought a different model then moved house before unpacking it, so Good Guys switched it for this model to fit in the space perfectly & I feel I lost no interior size. It has every feature I want & none that I don't want, so it's very user friendly, fast, accurate, consistent, quiet, easy to clean & looks beautiful.
Negative reviews
Microwave Oven not working properly on 30/10/19 (less than 2 years since I bought it on 31/12/17.) – Started using it in Feb 18 after kitchen renovation. It gave a flash of light and a 'bang' when warming up a piece of homemade bread on a microwave-proof plate. Show details
Hi, thanks for your feedback, if you would like to… Read more
So mad! – Got this as a gift about a year ago and just over a couple of weeks ago the light inside stops working (did not blow, just stopped) and then this morning, just as I was about to heat up my babies food it stopped working all together! The most used and needed appliance in the house and I can't just go get another one. Didn't think I could be disappointed by Panasonic but have been let down greatly. No I don't have the receipt it was a gift Show details
Hi Boags, sorry to hear about the fault with your… Read more
Dangerous – I was given the microwave as a gift , less than 6months ago. Luckily I was standing beside it when I noticed the inside wall had a fire. Terribly dangerous, I have no ideas why it has done this. It looks like the inside wall has broken down in one spot to where it is almost transparent. I would never buy this product, I would not want it as a gift either. As I don't know where it was purchased I cannot claim a warranty either Show details
Hi Penny, sorry to hear about the fault with your… Read more
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Recent reviews
The best microwave we've ever had – This thing won't die. Have had it for 12+ years now. It's become an inside joke to our family. Great job guys thanks Show reply
Disappointed re rust inside microwave – The NN-ST641W is the second Panasonic microwave we've had that after a year or two started developing rust inside. After 5 years it is kaput. You can tell by picking it up with the lack of weight that cheap materials have been used. Off to buy another microwave, and I'll be trying another brand. Show details
Perfect! – This microwave really does the job, durable and functions very well. I did not have a hard time learning how to use it since it's easy to operate, even kids could easily use it. It's high powered so it heats/reheats well even if you just use it for 30 seconds. I also like the size. It fits perfectly well in small kitchens and is very easy to clean. Show details
Panasonic ST641W microwave didn't last long – Only bought the Panasonic NN-ST641W Inverter microwave last year and it has now failed. When I now try to use the Panasonic microwave, it blows the circuit breaker, which means the fridge and other kitchen appliances lose power. Unfortunately Panasonic provide only a 12 month warranty, and I did not check the warranty duration at the time of… Read more
purchase. Not Impressed for what I though was a quality brand. So I'll have to throw out the Panasonic microwave and have gone out to buy another brand microwave which has a longer warranty.
Hi Ian, thank you for the feedback, sorry to hear about… Read more
Fantastic and reliable Microwave – This is our second Panasonic Microwave and find it to be a very easy to operate and reliable microwave. It heats and reheats food evenly and there are many functions to choose depending on your cooking needs. Love the cooling function after it has finished too. I can definitely recommend this Microwave to anyone who wants a long lasting appliance. Show details · 1
Terrible choice – Had to replace it 3 times now, sometimes for not heating, food cold after cycle, this last time because the door was stuck shut and the light was on and turntable revolving, couldn’t turn it off except at the plug. Also don’t like the attitude of staff at Bing Lee. Won’t buy from them again. Show details
Easy to use! – Bought the Panasonic Inverter from Harvey Norman about 1 year ago. Easy to use, minimal cleaning needed. My son cooks meat pies in 3 minutes without making them soggy. This microwave also defrosts food in a short time, heats food well. No problems, I would definitely recommend to friends. Panasonic is a reputable brand. First microwave I've owned with a cooling cycle, and I like it. Show details · 1
Worst Panasonic Microwave – When it works, it is not too bad, however, sometimes it needs a good belting to start. It has something to do with the "cool cycle" which has a mind of it's own. Previous Panasonic microwave lasted about 10 years before it failed, but this time, I cannot wait for the bulk refuge collection and put it on the road for another sucker. By the way, was going to buy a Sharp microwave but after reading the reviews will give that a miss as well. Show details
Go with Panasonic – My Panasonic intelligent inverter is a fantastic machine, in fact I didn’t realise how good it was until trying to use my mother microwave recently. Panasonic just doesn’t fail. This microwave heats food quickly & evenly every time. And actually does a decent job of defrosting meat, which a lot of microwaves struggle to do. Show details · 1
Find out how Panasonic NN-ST641W / NN-ST651W compares to other Microwaves
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Great appliance – My old inverter microwave broke down and the turntable failed to turn. We had it for over 11 years. Went to Costco and found this one on display, it was great price. The dimension of the microwave is small but comes with large turntable which is great! Reliable and dependable appliance, hope this one last for another decade at least. Show details
SO GOOD – I bought this to replace an older microwave which has a 13.5 inch turntable. I wanted another 13.5 inch turntable and this one has that. In fact my old turntable plate fits in this Panasonic. I also wanted a white microwave, which this is. The outer dimensions are a little smaller than my old microwave which is nice because it gives me more counter space. Show details · 1
Can’t go wrong – You can not go wrong with this. Always heats the food properly never really any cold middles and extra hot outsides. Very good price as well. Lots of programming features and controls so you can reheat and defrost as well as steam veggies and other foods. Best purchase you could buy Show details
Good model – We got this microwave as a Christmas present and was not disappointed at all. Warm up food very quickly. I personally love defrost option and use it very often to defrost meat from the freezer. It takes approx 5 min to defrost 500g of chicken fillet which is very quick! Show details
Absolute piece of junk – Panasonic make great TVs - they should stick to what they are good at. Worst thing about this is the fact that once you heat something - even if it’s just for 20 seconds so the food isn’t even hot - the microwave switches to a “cooling” cycle so everything you eat has to be at the microwave’s predetermined lukewarm temperature - you can’t even… Read more
stop it one it’s cooling - it has to finish the cycle - apparently it knows better than I do what temperature I want my food! The other drawback is the inability to cook smaller quantities on the preset menus - minimum one cup rice or 200g pasta - my 25 year old Sharp Carousel had much more flexibility - too bad it finally died. Also not great feet on this thing, every time you push a button or close door microwave slides back on the bench.
Satisfied – The microwave has good features such as pre-programmed functions such as vegetables however if you like your veggies more crispy then this function isn't for you. The biggest drawback is the cooling function after it is finished as it sounds like the microwave is still going if you've missed the beep. Otherwise, works well. Show details
Heats up well but cooling sound after heating is misleading! – The microwave does its job well,that it it heats up or defrost food well and quite quicky,for a budget microwave. However, after heating up,the microwave automatically goes into a cooling function where it does the same loud sound as it sould when hesting up food. So it is quite misleading as you would think the microwave has been accidentally left on to heat. Show details
Great Microwave at cheap price – I purchased this after our old microwave stopped working. Looked at a few models before deciding on this as a very close replacement for our old one. Has nice face, easy to use (Kids can use it by themselves). Got a great deal at Good guys in Cockburn and have been very happy with this one. Have owned it now for approx 4 years. The last one was also panasonic with Inverter technology and lasted around 12 or 13 years so do the job. Show details
Good microwave – I am happy with this microwave. I have installed it into my new kitchen, built into a cupboard with the matching surround which had to be purchased separately. I basically use it for heating up food or just steaming vegetables. I don't demand a lot from my microwave and just use high or defrost. I find this model easy to clean and reliable. The… Read more
main drawback is the noise level. The noise continues on 'cool down ' for a minute or so after the food has finished cooking. However you can remove the food from the oven while this is happening.
I am happy to recommend this product.
Ok microwave – This microwave heats up food really quickly. However it does not have a 30 second booster button, instead it has 10 seconds and 1 seconds, it also doesn't let you add more time once you have pressed start. This microwave is really easy to use with self explanatory features. This microwave is quite loud, the microwave fan will still be going on after the timer has finish. This seems like a sturdy and well built microwave. Show details
Decent microwave – Had this for a couple months now and it's used several times a day everyday for simple reheating of leftovers and cooking porridge. Seems to cook evenly and quickly. The sensor reheat works well too. We don't really use the other functions so didn't need anything fancier. This sits in our butlers pantry and noise hasn't been an issue. Show details
Microwave that functions as it should – Bought this microwave as a replacement for another Panasonic microwave. Microwave can cook and heat things up well and evenly when using the sensor option, but is a little uneven with the heat without knowing how much time to put things in for. Have had no problems with this microwave yet. Show details
Decent microwave – This microwave seems to cook well enough as any other after using it for a month. Having said that, we haven't yet heated any food for longer than 1-2 minutes. It isn't too loud, although the fan will often stay on and make noise even after the food has been heated. Show details
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Dear Damian, Thank you for raising your concerns –… Read more (+2 replies)