Which is the better buy? Side-by-side on rating, price, strengths, and watch-outs — with the published ratings we averaged to get there.
Panasonic NN-SN936B comes out ahead by a narrow margin (4.5 vs 4.7). The gap is mostly about families who reheat full dinner platters and want even reheating — read the strengths below before deciding.
The JES1657SMSS is the American-brand pick. GE's reliable build and parts network at $170. Best for buyers who want long-term US warranty support.
The NN-SN936B is the best-overall pick — Panasonic's inverter tech delivers even heating that the cheaper non-inverter picks can't match.
GE brand vs Asian picks. 1.6 cu ft. Sensor cook unique here.
Most powerful (1250W). Largest capacity. Inverter tech vs traditional in cheaper picks.
| Spec | GE JES1657SMSS | Panasonic NN-SN936B |
|---|---|---|
| Power | 1000W | 1250W |
| Capacity | 1.6 cu ft | 2.2 cu ft |
| Feature | Sensor cook | — |
| Brand | GE | — |
| Tech | — | Inverter |
| Cooking Modes | — | 10 |