7 Best Japanese Rice Cookers

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If you’re looking for the best Japanese rice cooker on the market, look no further!

In this blog post, we will compare some of the most popular Japanese rice cookers and their features.

We’ll also give you a few tips on how to choose the right one for your needs.

So whether you’re a beginner or an experienced Japanese rice cooker user, we’ve got you covered!

What Are Japanese Rice Cookers?

Japanese rice cookers are rice cookers specifically designed to cook perfect, fluffy Japanese rice every time. They typically have a higher capacity than other rice cookers, so they are ideal for large families or those who often host guests. Some have a “keep warm” function that keeps rice at a fixed temperature.

What Are The Best Japanese Rice Cookers?

Japanese rice cookers have to be of the best quality, as they are able to produce very fluffy soft rice and are full of technology to make the rice-cooking process easier.

Here are my reviewed best Japanese rice cookers:

1) Panasonic SR-HZ106 5-cup (uncooked) Rice Cooker

Best High-Tech Japanese Rice Cooker (Justin’s Pick!)

When it comes to Japanese rice cookers, the Panasonic SR-HZ106 is one of the best. It’s not the typical traditional rice cooker!

It’s a great size for small households or individual cooking, and it produces perfectly cooked fluffy rice every time.

The design is modern and sleek, and it has an easy-to-use control panel. Even better, the Panasonic SR-HZ106 is very reasonably priced, making it a great option for budget-minded shoppers.

If you’re looking for a Japanese rice cooker that will give you delicious, soft rice every time, the Panasonic SR-HZ106 is a great choice!

Key Features

• It can cook up to five cups of rice at a time.
• The automatic shut-off feature ensures that you don’t have to worry about overcooking your rice
• It has a non-stick pan, making it very easy to clean.
• Comes with a steamer basket so you can steam vegetables or fish while your rice is cooking. 

Pros

• Perfectly cooked rice every time
• Easy-to-use control panel
• Very reasonably priced
• Automatic shut-off feature

Cons

• Some reviewers found the instruction manual difficult to understand.
• A few reviewers noted that the rice cooker is not very durable and may break after a few uses.

Bottom Line

The Panasonic SR-HZ106 is a good choice for anyone who wants to cook Japanese rice at home. It’s easy to use and produces consistent results.

The only downside is that it’s not the cheapest rice cooker on the market.

But if you’re looking for a good quality Japanese rice cooker, the Panasonic SR-HZ106 is a great option.

2) Zojirushi NS-TSC18 Micom Rice Cooker and Warmer

Best Japanese Rice Cooker with Large-Capacity

The Zojirushi NS-TSC18 Micom Rice Cooker and Warmer is a large rice cooker that is a great choice for anyone who wants to cook large quantities of rice. Zojirushi rice cookers are well-known even among the Japanese.

It can cook up to ten cups of rice at a time, making it perfect for large families or those who often entertain guests.

Even better, the “keep warm” function ensures that your rice stays at the perfect temperature until you’re ready to eat.

If you’re looking for a large-capacity Japanese rice cooker, the Zojirushi NS-TSC18 is a great option.

Key Features:

• It can cook up to ten cups of rice at a time.
• The “keep warm” function ensures that your rice stays at the perfect temperature.
• It has a delay timer so you can set it to start cooking at a later time.

Pros:

• Larger capacity than other rice cookers
• The “Keep Warm” function ensures that your rice stays at the perfect temperature.
• A Delay timer lets you set it to start cooking at a later time.
• Features a non-stick inner pan so cleanup is easy.

Cons:

• Hard to carry around if you are looking for a portable Japanese rice cooker.
• Cannot be used as a slow cooker.
• It’s difficult for this rice cooker to keep all the 3 items – the scoop, paddle, and steamer basket inside for storage. (for the 5.5-cup model).
• The manual mentions that it can cook smaller amounts of rice (0.5 cups), but the markings on the inside of the pot have 1.0 cups of uncooked rice as its lowest marking for water levels.
• The cooking time takes longer than if you were to cook rice normally- about an hour.
• The water level markings within the pot are not suitable for cooking long-grain rice, you’ll have to determine that yourself.

Bottom Line:

This NS-TSC18 Zojirushi rice cooker is a great choice for anyone who wants to cook large quantities of rice.

Do consider this if you have a large family or you always have to cook large quantities of rice to host large gatherings.

(Must-have if you’re a large Asian family!)

3) Zojirushi NP-HCC18XH Induction Heating System Rice Cooker and Warmer

Overall Best Japanese Rice Cooker

The Zojirushi NP-HCC18XH Induction Heating System Rice Cooker and Warmer is one of the most advanced rice cookers on the market.

This wonderful Japanese rice cooker is definitely not a traditional rice cooker!

It has a variety of features that make it perfect for cooking all sorts of rice dishes, from basic white rice to fluffy Japanese rice.

It also has a variety of cooking modes, so you can tailor the cooking process to your specific dish. And cleanup is a breeze with the nonstick cooking pot.

If you’re looking for a top-of-the-line rice cooker to cook the best Japanese rice ever, the Zojirushi NP-HCC18XH is a great option!

Key Features:

• High-capacity rice cooker that can make up to 10 cups of cooked rice
• Can cook white rice, brown rice, sushi rice, porridge, and steamed vegetables
• Superior induction heating (IH) technology allows rice to be cooked evenly and quickly
• The delay timer function is great to schedule mealtimes
• Has healthy cooking options: brown rice and GABA brown rice settings
• Has an easy-to-clean clear-coated stainless steel exterior
• Automatic rice cooker keeps rice warm after cooking
• Menu settings include: white rice (regular, softer, or harder), jasmine white rice, mixed rice, sushi rice, porridge, sweet rice, brown rice, GABA brown rice, and quick cooking.
• cETLus listed and tested to comply with FCC standards

Pros:

• The induction heating system is good for cooking rice evenly and quickly.
• Variety of cooking modes for different dishes, so you can venture beyond just Japanese rice.
• The Delay timer function is an absolute time-saver, especially if you are a busy family!
• The nonstick cooking pot really makes for easy cleanup.

Cons:

• Not too portable if you plan on bringing it out or if you’re a student in a dorm.
• More pricey than traditional rice cookers
• The display system isn’t as advanced as other more modern-looking rice cookers.
• Cooking rice may take very long: some reviewers mentioned that they spent 1-hour cooking rice and were disappointed.

Bottom Line:

The Zojirushi NP-HCC18XH is a great overall Japanese rice cooker that has a variety of features to make perfect rice dishes. If you have the time to spare, this is a great option for you!

However, if you’re looking for something that is quick at cooking rice, this may not be the best choice.

Consider your needs before making a decision!

4) Panasonic SR-G06FGL Rice, Steamer & Multi-Cooker

Best Japanese Rice Cooker on a Budget

First up, let me just say that Panasonic rice cookers of this look and feel have been the norm of rice cooking for many Asian households where I live!

Specifically, this Panasonic SR-G06FGL is the type for smaller households, like as a 2-person household.

Because it’s such a no-frills Japanese rice cooker, it may not deliver the best quality cooking or time to cook like the more advanced ones.

But at least it’s still a rice cooker that gets the job done for those on a budget!

Key Features:

• Has a durable nonstick coated aluminum pan
• A tempered see-through glass lid with a plastic knob allows you to safely keep an eye on the meal.
• A measuring cup and rice scoop are included for simple cooking and serving.
• With the press of a button, the rice cooker just cooks – it’s easy and straightforward to use.
• When cooking is done, the machine has an automatic shutoff function.

Pros:

• Has the cheapest price point, great for anyone on a budget.
• The simple cook function is very suitable for minimalists who want a fuss-free “just cook” approach.
• The glass lid is extremely handy in checking the progress of cooking.
• Great for cooking for a 2-person household.

Cons:

• Only has a simple cook function and does not have any cooking type presets.
• Cooks only a small portion of rice: up to 3 cups of uncooked rice and 6 cups of cooked rice.
• Settings are not programmable.
• Due to its small size, it tends to boil and spill water out of the lid easily.

Bottom Line:

The Panasonic SR-G06FGL Rice, Steamer & Multi-Cooker is a great option if you value simplicity and a very low price point but are willing to sacrifice functionality and cooking capacity.

Consider your needs before making a decision!

5) Panasonic SR-DF101 5 Cup (Uncooked) Rice Cooker

Best Japanese Rice Cooker with Fuzzy Logic

While there are many rice cookers out there, Panasonic rice cookers are the best to cook white rice, especially Japanese rice.

The Panasonic SR-DF101 Rice Cooker works really well for those who want their white rice cooked perfectly with no fuss.

It comes with 4 main cooking settings:

1. Quick Cook/Steam
2. White Rice
3. Brown Rice
4. Porridge/Soup

If you’re the type that is particular about not having overcooked rice, you’ll want to leverage the Fuzzy Logic Technology that this rice cooker offers. This is an electric rice cooker.

This means that while it’s suitable for cooking Japanese rice, you’ll also be delighted to know that it cooks brown rice, plain rice, and jasmine rice perfectly.

While it is not the most advanced Japanese rice cooker out there, it still offers a great value deal for its price point!

Key Features

• It heats and cooks rice, porridge, soup, and other foods using an electrical current that is generated inside the kettle.
• A micro-computer employs fuzzy logic technology to make tiny modifications in cooking periods and temperatures for precise cooking and more consistent results.
• Brown rice, white rice, glutinous rice, mixed rice, and short or long-grained rice can all be quickly prepared using pre-programmed settings.
• It has an automatic shut-off function to prevent overcooking and a keep-warm option that will keep the rice warm for up to 12 hours.
• A special measuring cup is provided for portioning the desired amount, as well as a non-scratching rice spoon for authentic Asian-style service.
• The rice cooker comes with a special measure cup that can help to portion your required quantity of rice.
• A non-scratching rice spoon is provided so that you won’t damage the non-stick interior of the pot.
• It has a 5-cup uncooked rice capacity, suitable for a medium-sized household.

Pros:

• Convenient fuzzy logic technology for perfect rice every time.
• User-friendly with four main cooking settings, unlike most Japanese rice cookers with complicated buttons.
• Comes with a measuring cup and a non-scratching rice spoon that some others don’t provide.
• Has a sturdy carrying handle so you can carry it out from the kitchen to your dining table easily.
• Includes a steaming basket so you can steam other food items other than Japanese rice.
• Great value for money.

Cons:

• Some reviewers found the machine difficult to clean.
• The manual is not very user-friendly according to some customers.
• It doesn’t have as many features as the advanced Japanese rice cookers in the market.
• Lacks a rice spoon holder.
• Some have mentioned that their rice is cooked unevenly between the top and bottom rice.
• It doesn’t have an alert sound when it’s completed.
• Cooks slowly

Bottom Line:

This rice cooker is for those of you who are sick of all the uneven rice cooking your current rice cooker faces!

The Fuzzy Logic technology is a lifesaver as it balances out the heat within the inner pot really well.

Although this Japanese rice cooker isn’t over the top with its spectacularity, it has sooo many noteworthy features worth considering!

6) Toshiba TRSH01 Low Carb Digital Programmable Multi-functional Rice Cooker

Best Japanese Rice Cooker for Low-Carb Diets

The Toshiba TRSH01 Low Carb Digital Programmable Multi-functional Rice Cooker is great for anyone who desires a seamless Japanese rice cooking process!

It’s actually an even better option if you are interested in having a low-carb diet!

Also, if you’re looking for a no-fuss rice cooker that can also cook other dishes, it’s a great option!

It has multiple functions to help make your meals easier including white rice, brown rice, sushi rice, porridge/soup, and steaming.

This relatively large rice cooker also comes with a non-stick inner pot that is easy to clean, as well as a measuring cup and serving spatula.

Key Features

• The digital display panel makes it easy to see the current cooking status and time remaining.
• You can set the cooking time in 30-minute increments up to 24 hours in advance.
• It’s suitable to cook low-carb rice which can remove unhealthy digestive starch by up to 37% and increase healthy resistant starch by up to 34%.
• It’s great for cooking low-carb and low-GI rice, which can remove harmful digestive starch by up to 37% and boost nutritious resistant starch by up to 34%.
• It has 8 pre-programmed cooking settings: Quinoa, soup/stew, steam, medium grain, brown rice, and white rice (including Japanese white rice).
• Includes advanced Fuzzy Logic that makes micro-adjustments to the temperature within the pot to cook rice perfectly.
• Cooks the rice using Induction Heating, which cooks the rice evenly throughout the pot
• The non-stick inner pot is easily removable for cleaning.
• Includes a Toshiba Warranty: A 1 Year manufacturer warranty.

Pros:

• The keep-warm function will keep your rice at the perfect temperature until you’re ready to eat.
• This rice cooker is highly programmable which makes it convenient to set the Japanese rice to cook within a 24-hour time frame.
• The low-carb cooking of this rice cooker helps reduce glucose intake great for families with diabetic family members.
• Cooks multiple types of rice and other food, so you don’t just have to cook Japanese rice.
• Utilizes induction heating, which is very good if you don’t want to experience uneven cooking between the rice on top and at the bottom.

Cons:

• The plastic parts of the rice cooker may give off a bad smell
• Large and heavy so it isn’t as portable.
• If you use the low-carb function, you’ll be restricted to only 2 cups of rice.
• It isn’t too good for cooking sticky rice.

Bottom Line:

The Toshiba TRSH01 rice cooker is for anyone who’s particular about having a low-carb diet.

But more than just its special low-carb diet cooking feature, it also features lots of pre-programmed settings to cook multiple types of rice, so you won’t be restricted by it if you decide to venture to cook something else.

7) Toshiba TRCS02 Digital Programmable Rice Cooker

Best Japanese Rice Cooker for Students Living in Dorms

The Toshiba TRCS02 Digital Programmable Rice Cooker is a rice cooker that’s perfect for students looking to cook Japanese rice in their dorms.

That’s because the best part about this is its price point and portability. However, you’ll compromise on the quality and functions.

Let’s get into the details:

Key Features:

• This rice cooker has 8 pre-programmed settings to cook white rice, brown rice, mixed grain, quick rice, slow cook, porridge, cake, and even eggs.
• It has Smart Fuzzy Logic technology which makes it perfect for cooking rice evenly. This is done via its triple heating function.
• It features an LED smart digital panel display which is easy to use and read.
• For cleaning, its detachable steam vent and inner lid can be easily removed.
• It has a non-stick inner pot.
• It has a programmable delay timer for up to 24 hours.
• It has a handle for convenient carrying.
• Includes a 1-year warranty from Toshiba.
• Accessories included are a rice ladle, spoon, rice measuring cup, and inner pot.

Pros:

• It’s small and portable – great for students who live in dorms that want a smaller footprint.
• It has a handle that makes it easy to carry the whole rice cooker around.
• The pre-programmed settings make it really to just click a few buttons to get started cooking the rice.
• The triple heating functions at the bottom, side, and lid are perfect for cooking Japanese rice well using Smart Fuzzy Logic technology.
• The combined Smart Fuzzy Logic technology and triple heating function are great for ensuring that Japanese or other kinds of rice are cooked evenly.
• The delay timer is extremely useful when you want to prepare rice cooking in advance.

Cons:

• It’s made in China, so the quality isn’t as high as the more expensive models.
• It only cooks 3 cups of uncooked rice, so it’s not ideal for bigger households.
• It has induction heating capabilities, which may not be ideal for achieving the best-tasting rice.

Bottom Line:

The Toshiba TRCS02 rice cooker is indisputably the best for students! (in this list and all models out there)

The portability, size, capacity, and capabilities are simply perfect for someone who’s a student and wants a quick way to cook rice on the regular without breaking the bank!

Also, do consider this rice cooker if you live alone or with another roommate, it can definitely fulfill all your rice cooking needs and more.

Why Do I Need A Japanese Rice Cooker?

You need a Japanese rice cooker because most of them use induction heating to cook rice evenly, so rice cooked will not be undercooked or overcooked. Additionally, they have a keep-warm function to maintain their temperature and a timer function to set the start of the cooking at a specific time.

Benefits of Having a Japanese Rice Cooker

Benefits of having a Japanese rice cooker include the ability to cook rice evenly throughout the inner pot, their wide variety of settings to cook other grains and dishes, their ability to set a delay timer, and their keep-warm functions which are able to keep rice warm for long durations of time.

Why Are Japanese Rice Cookers So Expensive?

Japanese rice cookers are expensive because they are typically made up of high-quality materials, are able to cook rice evenly, are able to cook multiple types of rice grains, are highly programmable, have delay timers for rice to cook after a certain duration, and have a keep-warm function to keep cooked rice warm for long durations.

Is A Low-Carb Rice Cooker a Good Choice?

A low-carb rice cooker is definitely a good choice. Low-carb rice cookers are fantastic for individuals looking to cut down on carbs, as it allows rice and other grains to be cooked without adding any extra carbs. This is also great for diabetic family members due to the lower GI count.

Final Thoughts

A Japanese rice cooker can be a great addition to any kitchen. Japanese rice cookers tends to be able to cook the best Japanese rice evenly, as well as their wide variety of settings to cook other grains and dishes.

My humble advice to you would be this: try them out for yourself!

Japanese rice cookers have changed the average Asian household for decades on end and are slowly becoming one of the best investments for cooking the best Japanese rice.

So go ahead and try Japanese rice cookers for yourself!

I hope you have found a useful Japanese rice cooker through this article and thanks for reading!