Best rice cooker Singapore: Our top 10 & how to choose one [Oct 2024 update]

Rice is one of the staples in virtually every Singaporean household. Most families use a rice cooker because it is efficient, convenient and generally affordable. The best rice cooker will magically prepare rice so you are free to concentrate on cooking more more complicated dishes.

Are you tempted to buy the most expensive model within your budget? Perhaps you want to buy the cheapest model to save money. Please don’t do either before reading our comprehensive rice cooker guide. It will show you how to avoid overspending now and also let you save money in the long run. All you need to know is which features are most important for your circumstances.

So, before we look at the best rice cooker in Singapore, here are the 5 main factors that  to consider when buying a rice cooker.

1. Capacity – how much the rice cooker can cook at one time

This is usually the first thing that buyers consider when choosing a good rice cooker. Someone who lives alone or with just 1 other person will be happy with a small cooker; a family of 4 or more will need a large-capacity rice cooker.

Note that cooking a very small fraction of the maximum capacity— for example, preparing 1 cup of rice in a 10-cup rice cooker— often produces mixed results. It’s better to buy a rice cooker that matches your everyday needs instead.

2. Size – physical dimensions of the rice cooker

The trade-off with capacity is the appliance’s footprint. A rice cooker with a larger capacity will usually be taller and have a larger diameter than cookers with a smaller capacity.  So, a big rice cooker is harder to stow away in drawers or cabinets.

Sure, size differences are usually not that significant. However, they may become important if you regularly have a shortage of real estate on your kitchen counter when preparing a big meal.

3. Features – basic or advanced extras

A basic rice cooker performs just 1 function: cook rice. More advanced models can replace several appliances, helping you save space and money.

Some buyers prefer rice cookers with a simple 1-touch operation— these appliances cook the rice and automatically switch to the “Keep warm” function. More advanced cookers are multifunctional but operating them can be complicated.

Even simple features such as a see-through glass lid can be helpful. Multifunctional rice cookers often come with accessories such as a steaming basket. Detachable components simplify maintenance.

4. Construction – design & materials

Good design features such as detachable lids make cleaning easy. Superior materials such as ceramic and non-stick finishings like Teflon simplify it even further. Meanwhile, a rounded pot shape is supposed to help with even heating.

A metal body rice cooker is resistant to damage and looks impressive, too. However, consider the weight you’ll be lugging around if you store your rice cooker away after every use.

5. Quality – longevity and warranty

Would you prefer to invest in an expensive high-quality rice cooker or a cheaper one that you upgrade every few years? There are merits to each option.

High-quality rice cookers are generally more reliable and often come with longer warranty coverage for peace of mind. Conversely, you may choose a cheap rice cooker today, then voluntarily replace it when brands release new models with the latest technology. Brand name usually makes a difference, too.

Choosing the best rice cooker for you

The ranking on our list is based on customer satisfaction and feedback. However, you should pay closer attention to the features of each rice cooker and match them with the 5 criteria above.

1. Tefal Xpress Fuzzy Logic 1.5L RK5221 White

• Brand & Model: Tefal RK5221

• Capacity: 1.5L (8 cups)

• Dimensions: 29D x 36W x 47H cm

• Weight: 4.74kg

• Components: 1 x rice cooker set, 1 x spherical pot, measuring cup, rice spatula, soup spoon, steam basket

• Pot design: 2 mm thickness with 4 layers; non-stick coating

• Clean-up: Dishwasher safe; detachable parts

• Smart features: 12 cooking programs including white rice, brown rice, porridge/soup, slow cooking/stews (8 hours), steam, quick cooking, reheat, keep warm (12 hours)

• Warranty: 2 years

The Tefal RK5221 uses fuzzy logic artificial intelligence for precision cooking. It automatically adjusts cooking time and temperature to produce the best results. It has 12 cooking programs that include the ability to choose from different varieties of rice and even slow-cook recipes.

The high-quality 4-layer 2mm inner pot is treated with a non-stick coating. This keeps food from sticking and makes clean-up easy. The 1.5L (6-cup) capacity is ideal for a medium-sized family or when entertaining a small group.

Buy now at Amazon

2. ZOJIRUSHI Rice Cooker, 1.0L (NS-TSQ10) Stainless Steel

• Brand & Model: Zojirushi NS-TSQ10

• Capacity: 1L (4 cups)

• Dimensions: 25.5D x 35.5W x 21.5H cm

• Weight: 1kg

• Components: 1 x rice cooker, spatula, measuring cup, spatula holder, steaming basket, cord set

• Pot design: non-stick coating

• Clean-up: Easy-to-clean clear coated stainless steel exterior

• Smart features: white rice/sushi, brown rice, mixed, porridge, sweet, cake, steam, quick cooking; specify time-to-end cooking up to 10 hours

• Warranty: 1 Year Local (Singapore) Warranty

Zojirushi is one of the world’s most respected rice cooker brands. The Zojirushi NS-WXQ-10 rice cooker is fitted with a microchip that adjusts cooking time and temperature according to the cooking program selected  (white rice/sushi/porridge/brown rice).

Its inner pan comes with a non-stick layer to ensure rice does not stick to the pan and dries out easily after cooking. The cooker is equipped with a delay timer. This function allows you to set the cooker to complete cooking after a specific number of hours (4, 6, 8 or 10s). This is perfect for when you want to have your rice ready to eat when you get home.

Buy now at Amazon

3. Zojirushi NS-ZAQ10 Rice Cooker 1.0L, White

• Brand & Model: Zojirushi NS-ZAQ10

• Capacity: 1L (4 cups)

• Dimensions: ‎37.6 x 29.4 x 25.6 cm

• Weight: 1kg

• Components: 1 X Rice Cooker, Spatula, 2 x Measuring Cup, Spatula holder, Steaming basket, Cord Set

• Pot design: Spherical Thick Inner Cooking Pan for effective convection of heat and rice

• Clean-up:

• Smart features: White, Sushi, Brown, Semi-Bown, Quick, Congee, Sweet, Mixed; Colored LCD Display

• Warranty: 1 Year Local (Singapore) Warranty

Another wonderful Zojirushi product, the Zojirushi NS-ZAQ10 has a spherical thick inner cooking pan for the most effective convection of heat to rice. Coupled with advanced Neuro Fuzzy Logic Technology, this amazing device allows you to cook everything from rice to sushi to congee. Better still, the colour LCD display makes operating this device as simple as a few touches.

Buy now at Amazon

4. Tefal Delirice Rice Cooker Fuzzy Logic w/Spherical 1.8L RK7521

• Brand & Model: Tefal Delirice RK7521

• Capacity: 1.8L (7 cups)

• Dimensions: 29.1D x 33.8W x 45.3H cm

• Weight: 4.9kg

• Components: 1 x Rice Cooker Set, 1 x Spherical Pot, Steam basket, self-standing rice spatula, soup spoon and measuring cup

• Pot design: Durable 6-layer 2mm Spherical Ceramic Pot

• Clean-up: Dishwasher-safe bowl

• Smart features: 10 Cooking Program White rice, jasmine rice, congee, soup, claypot, slow cook, steam, reheat, delay start and keep warm 12 hour; fuzzy logic technology

• Warranty: 1 Year

With the Tefal Delirice RK7521, you get 10 different cooking programs including white rice, jasmine rice, congee, soup, slow cooking, clay pot, steam and quick cooking. There is also a reheat setting and a 12-hour keep-warm function. Its 6-layer 2.0mm pan is fitted with an inner ceramic layer for optimum durability.

That design works with the spherical pot to cook rice evenly as well as within a shorter time. That process is helped along by the fuzzy logic technology AI that helps to control the setting second-by-second. With a dishwasher-safe ceramic pot, steam basket and self-standing spatula, you have all the tools you need for a quick and easy day in the kitchen.

Buy now at Amazon

5. Panasonic SR-CN188WSH 10 Cup Rice Cooker, 1.8L, White

• Brand & Model: Panasonic SR-CN188WSH

• Capacity: 1.8L (7 cups)

• Dimensions: 27.4D x 38.4W x 24.6H cm

• Weight: 4.9kg

• Components: 1 x steaming basket, 1 x rice scoop, 1 x rice scoop holder, 1 x ladle, 1 x measuring cup

• Pot design: 2.2mm 6-layer durable far-infrared black inner pan, ultra non-stick coating inside, wear-resistant anodized aluminium layers in between, heat-absorbing black matte finish on the outside

• Clean-up: Detachable inner lid and steam vent for easy cleaning

• Smart features: 16 recipes by 13 auto menus, fuzzy logic control, 24 Hour cooking preset timer, Keep warm up to 24 hours

• Warranty:

The Panasonic SR-CN188WSH is one of the most versatile rice cookers on the market. It boasts 16 programmed cooking modes, including 3 that can be tweaked by the user.

The 16 modes are: 1. White Rice (Regular) 2. White Rice (Soft) 3. White Rice (Hard) 4. Quick 5. Quinoa 6. Brown Rice 7. Multi Grain 8. Jasmine Rice 9. Sticky Rice 10. Porridge 11. Clay Pot Rice 12. Soup 13. Slow Cook 14. Cake 15. Bread 16. Steam.

You can monitor and adjust the cooking process using the bright white LED on the top panel. It provides a clear view of the functions at any time of the day and is simple to operate.

Inside, there is a 2.2mm-thick inner pan with an ultra non-stick coating. It distributes heat efficiently to deliver it to every grain of rice. This 6-layer pan combines heat-transmitting and heat-retaining materials to create the ideal rice-cooking process. Wear-resistant anodized aluminium layers make this a worthy investment.

Buy now at Amazon

6. Toshiba RC-10DR1NS Digital Rice Cooker, 1L, White

• Brand & Model: Toshiba RC-10DR1NS

• Capacity: 1L (4 cups)

• Dimensions: 27.5D x 35.3W x 26.7H cm

• Weight: 4.68kg

• Components:

• Pot design: Unique T4.0 mm copper forged pot, Japan Binchotan charcoal coating

• Clean-up: non-stick coating for easy cleaning

• Smart features: 8 menu presets, quick cook mode, 24-hour preset timer

• Warranty: 1 year

The Toshiba RC-10DR1NS is an innovative device that combines modern technology with the ancient practice of using activated charcoal — binchotan— to improve flavour while simultaneously fighting toxins.

The 8 cooking presets are white rice, brown rice, mixed rice, crispy rice, sushi, congee, soup and cake. This device’s copper-forged pot is designed to conduct heat quickly but evenly. the T4.0mm curvature at the base makes it easy to scoop up every last bit of food and also makes cleaning easier. With teh 24-hour preset timer, you can plan and cook your meals a full day in advance!

Buy now at Amazon

7. Tefal Mechanical Mini Rice cooker 4 Cups RK2241, White

• Brand & Model: Tefal RK2241

• Capacity: 0.7L (3 cups)

• Dimensions: 29.3D x 29.3W x 28.1H cm

• Weight: 2.83kg

• Components: 1 x Mechanical Mini Rice Cooker, steam plate

• Pot design: Durable 2.0mm cooking pot

• Clean-up: Dishwasher-safe bowl, easy-to-clean removable inner lid and non-stick layer; detachable power cord for your ease

• Smart features: 2 cooking programs

• Warranty: 1 Year

One of the most affordable rice cookers on our list, the Tefal RK2241 is your ideal compact rice cooker. Its 300W power rating means that this is a little pocket rocket, completing the tasks you set it in quick succession.

Its tiny frame occupies a fraction of the space of a conventional rice cooker but doesn’t compromise any of the ability. You get 2 basic cooking programs to cover your straightforward needs. It can handle all your favourite rice varieties from white and basmati to jasmine or Thai rice. It can even cook specialized varieties such as sticky rice or quinoa.

The durable non-stick cooking pot and simple controls produce a haslle-free rice-cooking experience. You can savour a whole host of additional possibilities with the steam plate, to cook steamed veggies and even dim sum or bao bun. When you are done cooking, the automatic keep warm function kicks in to keep your meal ready for when you are.

Buy now at Amazon

8. Panasonic SR-3NAPSH 0.27L Rice Cooker

• Brand & Model: Panasonic SR-3NAPSH

• Capacity: 0.27L (1 cup)

• Dimensions: 39D x 17W x 39H cm

• Weight: 4.9kg

• Components:

• Pot design: high-quality anodized cooking pan

• Clean-up: small size means less to clean; superior painted exterior finishing for a rust proof body

• Smart features:

• Warranty: 1 Year

Small eaters and singles rejoice— the Panasonic SR-3NAPSH was made with you in mind! This is a single-cup rice cooker with a high-quality anodized cooking pan for good heat distribution and see-through glass lid for the best control.

Parents can use this as baby’s exclusive cooker to cook only hygienically-controlled food. It’s ideal for a bottle of milk or some cereal. With is compact size, it’s also ideal for travel. Use it as a mobile cooking station or to keep food warm on a day trip. This cooker is lightweight, too, and easy to carry while the superior exterior finishing makes it rust-proof.

Buy now at Amazon

9. Cornell 1.5L Digital Rice Cooker with Non-Stick Coating Pot CRCJP155D White

• Brand & Model: Cornell CRCJP155D

• Capacity: 1.5L (6 cups)

• Dimensions: ‎42.2 x 31.6 x 27.2 cm

• Weight: 4.44kg

• Components: Digital Rice Cooker with Non-Stick Coating Pot, Steam tray, measuring cup, ladle & rice scoop; 1m cord

• Pot design: non-stick coating,

• Clean-up: Removable & washable steam vent & inner lid, non-stick pan

• Smart features: 6 Preset Cooking modes

• Warranty: 1 year Local (Singapore) Warranty

Another affordable entry, the Cornell CRCJP155D is your companion ofr perfect rice every time. Know exactly what is happening during the cooking process with the soft-touch control panel. It is fitted with an LED indicator light for easy operation. Use it to control the preparation of a host of dishes through the 6 preset cooking modes. Track the progress from start to end with the clear descriptions ( Pre-Heat > Absorb > Heating > Boiling > Simmering > Done).

When the cooking program is complete, this device automatically shits to Keep Warm mode. This keeps your rice or other dish at the ideal serving temperature even if you are delayed. Cleaning up is a breeze when you can remove both the steam vent and the inner lid. The smooth, non-stick pan also helps in this regard. The other advantage of having a removable vent is that you can maintain the ideal ventilation levels so the programs work perfectly every time.

Buy now at Amazon

10. Staub 40508-234 La Cocotte de Gohan, Size M, 6.3 inches (16 cm)

• Brand & Model: Staub 40508-234 La Cocotte de Gohan

• Capacity: 1.74L (7 cups)

• Dimensions: 16D x 21.1W x 15.5H cm

• Weight: 2.35kg

• Components: Instruction manual with recipes

• Pot design: cast iron (enamel processing)

• Warranty: Lifetime warranty

French homewares manufacturer Staub is known for producing some of the most elegant and effective kitchen appliances and utensils. The Staub 40508-234 La Cocotte de Gohan is no exception. It even comes with a lifetime warranty. Of course, the brand name and guarantee come at a pretty steep price.

The body of this exquisite appliance is enamel-processed iron, the only one of its kind on this list. Enamel is inherently anti-adhesive, meaning that you can use it for prolonged periods for intensive processes such as searing, roasting and caramelising food. Cheaper non-stick alternatives simply cannot keep up.

Another property of enamel-processed iron is that there is no need to season it before using. Instead, your rice cooker is good to cook from the moment you receive it. There is even a nickel knob so you can use it inside your oven!

Buy now at Amazon

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