It’s sensible to want the best rice cooker in Malaysia 2021! A rice cooker is such a quintessential appliance in many Malaysian households!
A locally-made rice cooker can cost less than RM100. However, high-quality rice cooker prices in Malaysia can fall anywhere within the RM100-600 range!
Nevertheless, it’s a worthwhile investment to avoid ingesting dangerous chemicals from cheaply made rice cookers. Besides that, a durable rice cooker will last longer, saving you more money in the long run!
13 Best Rice Cookers In Malaysia 2021
All of the rice cookers on this list have around 2L of capacity. So it depends how much you’re willing to pay for one!
- Best Budget Rice Cooker (~RM100) – Panasonic SR-E18A Conventional 1.8L Rice Cooker
- Best Value-For-Money Rice Cooker (~RM100) – Toshiba RC-18JH1NMY Jar Type 1.8L Rice Cooker
- Best Value-For-Money Rice Cooker (<RM200) – Electrolux ERC3405 3 In 1 Function 1.8L Rice Cooker
- Best Budget Logic Rice Cooker (<RM200) – Russell Taylors ERC-30 Fuzzy Logic Smart 1.8L Rice Cooker
- Best Logic Rice Cooker (~RM200) – Tefal RK7321 Fuzzy Logic 1.8L Rice Cooker or Toshiba RC-18DH1NMY Digital 1.8L Rice Cooker
- Best Induction Heat Rice Cooker (~RM500) – Tefal 1.5L Delirice Pro Induction Heating Rice Cooker RK808A
- Best Healthy Rice Cooker (~RM100) – HETCH MTC-1721-HC 8 In 1 Multifunction 1.8L Rice Cooker
- Best Healthy Rice Cooker (~RM800) – Tefal 1.0L Healthy & Tasty Rice Cooker RK8608
- Best High-Quality Rice Cooker (>RM500) – Philips HD4528/62 Avance Collection IH 1.5L Rice Cooker
1. Panasonic SR-E18A Conventional 1.8L Rice Cooker
Panasonic’s SR-E18A is large enough to cook for your whole family! And when it’s done, it will automatically keep the rice warm for hours!
Say goodbye to complicated buttons and instructions. This rice cooker is simple to use as it only has one button!
The downside, however, is its limited functions. There are no alternate settings and you have to take what you can get. Even so, you can’t really be mad about it since it’s affordable (including a 1-year warranty)!
This is a good option for those who want a basic, no-fuss rice cooker. It is also great for those on a budget!
- Capacity: 1.8L
- Cooking Capacity: 2-10 cups
- Type: Conventional
- Inner Pan Make: Anodized Aluminum
- Modes: Keep warm
- Price: ~RM100
- Warranty: 1 year
Pros:
- Affordable
- Removable lid
- Trustworthy brand
- Simple
- Consumes little electricity
Cons:
- Limited functions
2. Russell Taylors ERC-18 Conventional 1.8L Rice Cooker
At first glance, this may seem like a brand from overseas with its international-sounding name. But Russel Taylors is actually a Malaysian-based company selling kitchen appliances from China!
This ERC-18 rice cooker with a removable lid comes with a steam rack and 1 year warranty!
It’s very convenient as cook time is short at 20 minutes. Besides that, it’s equipped with an automatic Keep Warm function.
Most reviews are positive. And reviewers are happy with the product, especially as it is very affordable.
But there were a few concerns here and there:
Some users warned that the lid handle easily detaches and has to be manually replaced repeatedly from their first use. One user also mentioned that the holes for steam to pass through are too small.
A few reviews also complained of the rice cooker being dented upon delivery. However, it is unclear whether this is due to the manufacturer or delivery company.
- Capacity: 1.8L
- Cooking Capacity: 2-10 cups
- Type: Conventional
- Inner Pan Make: Non-stick
- Modes: Keep warm
- Price: ~RM80
- Warranty: 1 year
Pros:
- Affordable
- Automatic keep warm function triggers after the rice is cooked
- Comes with a serving paddle and rice cup too
- Non-stick coating
- Short cooking time
Cons:
- Like other conventional rice cookers, the lid is light and sometimes, steam and water will escape!
- Holes for steam to pass through are too small
- Lid handle may detach easily
3. Philips HD3115/62 Daily Collection Jar 1.8L Rice Cooker
Made in China, the HD3115/62 by Philips (from Netherlands) has a copper element that warms the sides of the rice cooker. It is paired with a built-in smart heating system to ensure even cooking.
It comes with accessories such as a rice scooper, measuring cup and steaming tray. Its Keep Warm function can keep your rice warm for up to 5 hours!
Its large capacity also allows you to serve rice for up to 12 people!
Despite its large capacity, a review claimed that it started overflowing despite only cooking 2 cups of rice. Another user commented that the wire was too short.
The downside of this rice cooker’s design is that it lacks a digital display and countdown timer. There are also no pre-set programs, which limits its cooking options.
Thus, this rice cooker is suitable for large families. But best for those who only seek basic rice cooking!
- Capacity: 1.8L
- Cooking Capacity: 2-10 cups
- Type: Jar Type (Attached Lid)
- Inner Pan Make: Non-stick
- Modes: Keep warm
- Price: ~RM199
- Warranty: 2 years
Pros:
- Long warranty
- Has 5 non-stick layers with an anti-scratch coating
- Measurement markings for water and rice level
- Automatic Keep Warm function
- Suitable for large families (2-6 pax)
Cons:
- Lid is fixed
- Rice can get crusty at the bottom
- Online registration is a must to apply for the warranty
- No countdown timer
- No preset programs
- Short wire
4. Toshiba RC-18JH1NMY Jar Type 1.8L Rice Cooker
The inner lid of jar type Toshiba RC-18JH1NMY rice cooker is detachable so you can clean it easily. And it’s not any more complicated to use than a conventional rice cooker!
Reviews praise this cooker for its non-stick coating and being easy to use. It also comes equipped with a steamer.
This rice cooker has an automatic Keep Warm function that can keep your food warm for up to 6 hours. At 1.8L capacity, it can cook a large volume at once.
However, some reviews warned that the rice cooker they received were dented. It is unclear whether this is due to the quality of the rice cooker or the delivery company.
A user also complained that the rice came out crusty, although this seems to be an isolated case.
Considering its decent price, the Toshiba RC-18JH1NMY is a value-for-money rice cooker to consider.
- Capacity: 1.8L
- Cooking Capacity: 2-10 cups
- Type: Jar Type (Attached Lid)
- Inner Pan Make: Aluminum with non-stick coating
- Modes: Keep warm
- Price: ~RM120
- Warranty: 1 year
Pros:
- Steam basket, rice scoop and measuring cup included
- Decent quality
- Decent price
- Non-stick coating
- Automatic Keep Warm function
Cons:
- Only 1 year warranty
- Cooked rice may be crusty
5. Panasonic SR-JP185 Mechanical Jar 1.8L Rice Cooker
Here’s a rice cooker that’s capable of 3 functions – rice, porridge and steaming! A toggle between rice and porridge mode keeps things from being unnecessarily complicated!
You can even steam meat and seafood with the included steam basket! Upon cooking, it automatically keeps your food warm for up to 5 hours.
The rice cooker has a removable inner lid for easier cleaning. Its detachable power cord also makes it easy to store. Talk about convenience!
This rice cooker comes in 3 colour options: White, Jasmine White, and Maroon. The maroon option comes with an interesting design that is unlike your traditional plain white rice cooker.
This is a good option for those who value convenience and easier cleanup.
- Capacity: 1.8L
- Cooking Capacity: 2-10 cups
- Type: Jar Type (Attached Lid)
- Inner Pan Make: Black Flon Pan
- Modes: Keep warm, porridge
- Price: ~RM120
- Warranty: 1 year
Pros:
- Detachable inner lid
- 3-color indicator (one for porridge)
- Detachable power cord
- Accessories include a measuring cup, rice paddle, porridge scoop and a steam basket
Cons:
- Costs more than other rice cookers
6. Electrolux ERC3405 3 In 1 Function 1.8L Rice Cooker
Electrolux from Sweden has a similar rice cooker to the one above:
It cooks from all sides, resulting in fluffy rice!
You can choose to cook rice or porridge, and it will keep your food warm once it’s done cooking!
This rice cooker comes with a pot handle for better portability. Users find it simple to use and it is effective at collecting condensation on its cover.
There are some mixed reviews in terms of the rice quality. Most are happy with the taste of the rice, but there were a few reviews complaining about the rice being too dry.
Users also did not like that the inner lid is non-removable, which makes it more difficult to clean.
Between its easy-to-carry pot handle, affordability and good rice quality, the Electrolux ERC3405 3 In 1 Function 1.8L Rice Cooker is still a value-for-money product.
- Capacity: 1.8L
- Cooking Capacity: 2-10 cups
- Type: Jar Type (Attached Lid)
- Inner Pan Make: Non-stick
- Modes: Keep warm, porridge
- Price: ~RM160
- Warranty: 2 years
Pros:
- Affordable
- Automatically keeps your rice warm
- You’ll get a steam tray, rice paddle and scoop as well as a measuring cup
- Has a pot handle
Cons:
- Relatively heavy (3.6kg)
- Non-removable inner lid
7. Russell Taylors ERC-30 Fuzzy Logic Smart 1.8L Rice Cooker
There are 6 different programs stored in Russell Taylors’ ERC-30 so you can cook different types of rice and even soup!
Pre-set timer and digital display allow you to choose when you want your rice to be ready!
This product is recommended for those who desire more flexibility and a range of cooking choices! It’s also a good choice for those who want a fuzzy logic rice cooker while on a budget.
Many users are happy with its modern design and aromatic rice. A reviewer even used it to make muah chee and the results were perfect!
As for disadvantages, some reviews mentioned that the base of the rice cooker is slippery and the inner pot is too thin.
Other users said that the rice cooker did not heat up properly. Another user faced an incomplete digital display. One user even complained that it malfunctioned after 1 month of usage!
While several negative reviews mention that the product was heavily dented upon delivery.
- Capacity: 1.8L
- Cooking Capacity: 2-10 cups
- Type: Fuzzy Logic
- Inner Pan Make: Non-stick
- Modes: Keep warm, delay, steam, white rice, brown rice, mixed rice, beans, soup
- Price: ~RM150
- Warranty: 1 year
Pros:
- Includes rice paddle, cup and steam rack
- Multi-functional
- Easy to wash
- Cooks rice well
- Modern design
Cons:
- Exterior gets scratches easily
- Only 1 year warranty
- Average build quality
8. Philips HD3038 Fuzzy Logic 1.8L Rice Cooker
Philips HD3038 has a futuristic look to it. If you thought the previous model on our list was impressive, this one takes the cake!
It comes with 9 different modes including a way to reheat leftover rice!
What’s special about this rice cooker is its preset timer that allows you to preset meals up to 12 hours in advance. What’s more, its automatic Keep Warm function keeps your rice fresh for up to 24 hours!
It has a swing handle to make it easier to carry around. It also comes with a detachable steam vent, but some reviews say that it keeps dropping out when opening the lid.
Reviewers are happy about the non-stick coating and good rice texture. Others like its straightforward buttons and convenience.
In terms of cons, this rice cooker is quite bulky and takes up a lot of kitchen space. This might not be a good option if you have a small kitchen.
Many reviews complained about the lid not being detachable for cleaning. This makes it very inconvenient and even unhygienic.
Users also warned that the lid lock is not secure and may be loose or come off easily. Other reviewers complained about crusty rice and excess steam.
And despite having a Quick Cooking Mode, reviews mentioned that the rice takes a long time to cook.
- Capacity: 1.8L
- Cooking Capacity: 2-10 cups
- Type: Fuzzy Logic
- Inner Pan Make: Non-stick
- Modes: Cake, steam, congee, reheat, ultra quick, claypot rice, etc
- Price: ~RM240-360
- Warranty: 2 years
Pros:
- Preset timer for up to 12 hours
- Cooks from all sides
- Thick non-stick coating
- Automatic Keep Warm function up to 24 hours
- Long warranty
- Quality accessories (e.g. ladle, steam basket, rice paddle, etc)
Cons:
- Expensive
- Lid is not easy to clean (not detachable)
- Relatively larger than other rice cookers
- Ultra quick mode still takes 25 minutes
- Lid lock may not be secure
9. Tefal RK7321 Fuzzy Logic 1.8L Rice Cooker
Clearly defined buttons make it simple to select any of the 8 programs in this rice cooker by Tefal. None of which, are for baking! You can adjust the preset timer as needed!
Something else to note about RK7321 is the inner pot design. Like the Tefal RK8055, the Tefal R7K321 also features a spherical shape for better heat circulation.
Many users favor this rice cooker for its ability to cook fast (and evenly). Its cooking capacity makes it a very adequate choice for medium to large families.
Reviews believe that it is value-for-money due to its wonderful product quality. The rice cooker menu comes with large buttons which are easy to click.
The downside is that you are unable to customize and preset the cooking time. The steam cap is also non-detachable. Unlike with the Philips HD3038!
Watch an unboxing and rice demo video here (in English):
- Capacity: 1.8L
- Cooking Capacity: 2-10 cups
- Type: Fuzzy Logic
- Inner Pan Make: Aluminum (1.5mm thick) with non-stick coating
- Modes: stew, porridge, brown rice, quick cook, slow cook, etc
- Price: ~RM200
- Warranty: 2 years
Pros:
- Automatic keep warm
- Rice spatula, measuring cup, and steam basket
- Lightweight
- Good quality
- Large buttons
- Cooks fast and evenly
- Suitable for medium to large families
Cons:
- Expensive
- Unable to customise and preset cooking time
- Can’t remove the steam cap for washing
- No digital screen
10. Toshiba RC-18DH1NMY Digital 1.8L Rice Cooker
Toshiba’s appealing minimalist-style RC-18DH1NMY rice cooker features a unique coating of Japanese Bincho charcoal (Binchotan).
This activated charcoal coating absorbs impurities from the water. Not unlike in commercial water filters! It’s not harmful to your health either!
This rice cooker offers 11 preset menus including different types of rice, congee, soup and even cake!
It also has a 24-hour preset timer so you can prep in advance.
Reviewers think it is decently sized and lightweight, yet can still feed large families. The rice is cooked well and there are no incidents of scorched rice.
Check out the promo video here:
- Capacity: 1.8L
- Cooking Capacity: 2-10 cups
- Type: Fuzzy Logic
- Inner Pan Make: Binchotan
- Modes: Cake, sushi, brown rice, sticky rice, soup, steam, quick (30 minutes), etc
- Price: ~RM200
- Warranty: 1 year
Pros:
- 24hr preset timer
- Accessories (e.g. cup, paddle, scoop and steam rack)
- Durable (2.2 mm thickness)
- Multi-functional with 11 different modes
- LED display
- Inner lid and steam vent can be detached
- Compact
- Lightweight
Cons:
- Very expensive
- Only 1 year warranty
11. HETCH MTC-1721-HC 8 in 1 Multifunction 1.8L Rice Cooker
That transparent viewing window made of heat-resistance plastic (BPA & Phlthalate Free – tested by SGS) is the highlight of this rice cooker by HETCH.
This rice cooker comes in a red coat that will surely catch your eye too! The rice cooker is a bit bulky but lightweight.
It is equipped with a 24-hour preset timer as well as an automatic 24-hour Keep Warm function.
Cleaning of the inner pot is simple as is selecting the 8 functions! Some of the functions include yoghurt, dessert, stew and steam.
Interestingly, it also has a low sugar rice cooking mode as a healthier alternative.
A few users tried out the low sugar rice cooking mode and the rice came out softer than expected. It might be healthier, but it might not have the best texture.
Overall, users are satisfied with the product.
- Capacity: 1.8L
- Cooking Capacity: 2-10 cups
- Type: Fuzzy Logic
- Inner Pan Make: Non-stick
- Modes: Dessert, slow cook, yoghurt, steam, fry stew, keep warm (24 hours), etc
- Price: ~RM160
- Warranty: 1 year
Pros:
- Spoon, steamer and cup are included
- Boils soup fast
- Highly versatile
- Striking red color
- Lightweight
- 24-hour Keep Warm function
- 24-hour preset function
- Has low sugar rice cooking mode which is healthier
Cons:
- Not of the best quality
- Lid is not removable
- Window tends to fog up
12. Philips HD4528/62 Avance Collection IH 1.5L Rice Cooker
Yet another from Philips, the HD4528 sports a luxurious dark finish – an aesthetic asset to your kitchen as well as a functional one!
It achieves perfection for every grain of rice with the patented iSpiral IH technology. Alerting you when the rice is done!
The inner lid is detachable for easier cleaning and there are 10 preset menus to choose from.
Reviews for this rice cooker are generally positive. Users rave about the perfect quality, taste and texture of the rice.
It is super easy to use and clean. Users particularly love its modern and sleek design.
In terms of improvement, users note that when you open the lid, the sealing rubber is unable to hold the condensed water.
Besides that, you can’t see the remaining time from the countdown timer. Until it is roughly the last 15 minutes or so. This rice cooker also takes up a lot of countertop space.
Despite the high price, users are happy with their purchase as the cooking outcome and product quality are truly superb.
Learn more through this promo video:
- Capacity: 1.5L
- Cooking Capacity: Up to 6 people
- Type: Induction Heating
- Inner Pan Make: Stone-like
- Modes: Keep warm (up to 12 hours), soup, porridge, brown rice, etc
- Price: ~RM500-600
- Warranty: 2 years
Pros:
- Cooks excellent rice
- Has a measuring cup, spatula and steaming basket
- Automatic keep warm
- User-friendly
- Durable
- Removable inner lid
- High quality
- Large digital display
- Accurate water and rice measurement markings in the inner pot
- Modern and sleek design
Cons:
- Very expensive
- Long cook time (e.g. 1.5 hours for porridge mode)
- Small capacity for a large family
- Font size is a bit small
- No countdown timer from start to finish (only the last 15 minutes)
- Takes up counter space significantly
- Heavy inner pot
13. Tefal 1.5L Delirice Pro Induction Heating Rice Cooker RK808A
Expensive, to be sure. But the Tefal 1.5L Delirice Pro Induction Heating Rice Cooker RK808A is basically a multicooker:
With 16 preset cooking programs that include different types of rice (e.g., brown, glutinous, jasmine, white, etc), yoghurt, porridge, congee, claypot, slow cooking, and even dessert!
You can even make bread with it! So as a rice cooker with induction heating technology, the price is justified if you can make use of all the functions!
Making bread with this rice cooker:
The keep warm function is automatic (with no dedicated button). And there is a delay start function as well. Cooking regular rice, takes about 40 minutes. With quick mode, the cook time is halved.
One user advises putting more water than you think you need. But observes that even if you cook a small portion (minimum is half cup, maximum 8 cups), there is no crusting at the bottom!
Cleaning the rice cooker is not difficult with the ceramic non-stick coating. And the lid can be taken out for washing as well.
If you already own or have previously owned the Tefal Mini Fuzzy Spherical Pot Rice Cooker RK601, you will notice that the Tefal RK808A is noisier. Sounds a bit like a fan according to one user.
- Capacity: 1.5L
- Cooking Capacity: 8 cups
- Type: Induction Heating
- Inner Pan Make: High Quality Aluminium and Iron (3mm thickness) with non-stick coating
- Modes: Auto Keep warm, Timer, Delayed
- Start Function, Slow Cook, Reheat, 16 Cooking Programs
Warranty: 2 years
Price: ~RM439
Pros:
- Inner pot is sound (thick)
- Extremely versatile when it comes to functions
- Non stick coating
- Modern aesthetic
- With automatic keep warm
- Large cooking capacity but can cook small portions too
- Long warranty
- Quick mode comes in handy (20 minutes to cook rice)
Cons:
- Expensive
Bonus: Tefal 1.0L Healthy & Tasty Rice Cooker RK8608
Users swear that rice tastes better with the Healthy rice function of the Tefal Healthy & Tasty Rice Cooker 1.0L (RK8608)! Rice is fragrant and perfectly fluffy too! And ready to eat in ~35 minutes!
Promo video:
But the portion may not be enough for a household of 5 pax! According to one review, you can only cook 2 cups of rice with the Healthy rice function. Enough for 3-4 pax.
We can only imagine that the target audience for this rice cooker is health conscious seniors with money to spare! Because the price is high for such a small rice cooker!
As long as you follow the water and rice measurements on the inside of the pot (not the measurement cup). Operating the rice cooker is uncomplicated according to users.
This rice cooker only comes in 1 size (1L). Which is compact and space-saving. The quality befits a Tefal product. As the inner pot is sturdily built.
- Capacity: 1.0L
- Cooking Capacity: 5 cups
- Type: Induction Heating
- Inner Pan Make: 6 layers inner pot
- Modes: Auto Keep warm, Timer, Delayed Start Function, Reheat, Steam, Soup, Porridge, Congee, Multigrain Rice, Brown Rice
- Warranty: 2 years
- Price: ~RM769
Pros:
- Instructions are clear
- Unique Healthy rice function
- With a timer and automatic keep warm
- Space-saving rice cooker
- Fast-cooking
- You can use it for other purposes (e.g. making soup, congee, or porridge)
- Good quality pot
- Easy to use
Cons:
- Very expensive for the cooking capacity
- Only comes in 1 size
Types Of Rice Cookers
Just like refrigerators, there are up to 4 types of different rice cookers available in the market:
1. Conventional Rice Cooker (Removable Lid)
Conventional rice cookers use a heating element below the inner pot that contains the rice and water.
A temperature sensor uses change in temperature (after the water is gone) to release a latch that turns off the heating element!
2. Jar Type (Attached Lid, Non-digital)
Jar type rice cookers have more than 1 heating element – the base as well as the sides!
Thus, unlike the conventional rice cookers, you won’t get a crispy crust at the bottom of your rice!
3. Fuzzy Logic (Digital)
Rice connoisseurs may want to get a rice cooker that uses fuzzy logic to cook rice. The resulting rice has better texture and taste!
Conventional rice cookers only have 2 levels, whereas fuzzy logic rice cookers have different levels for determining when to turn off the heating element. For example, when you want to cook porridge!
They usually have a quick mode function as well. This comes in handy when you don’t want to wait ~50 minutes for your rice to cook!
4. Induction Heating
Induction rice cookers offer higher precision than fuzzy logic rice cookers but are more expensive. They also provide a more even distribution of heat, just like jar type rice cookers!
How To Choose The Best Rice Cooker
Arm yourself with the knowledge of how to differentiate between rice cookers before you buy a rice cooker in Malaysia!1. What Size Do You Actually Need?
Getting a rice cooker with a capacity that is more than you need will result in a shorter lifespan for the cooker. The heat will also not be evenly distributed.
Determine how much rice you cook (in terms of cups). We’re assuming you cook rice on an almost-daily basis!
So if you cook 2 cups daily, a 3-cup rice cooker is what you need!
Other questions to ask yourself:
- Do you cook in batches, saving the leftover rice for another meal?
- How often do you have guests over?
If you’re just one person, a mini rice cooker will do just fine.
2. Versatility
Another thing to think about: Do you want to cook other things besides rice in your rice cooker?
Some rice cookers come with steaming trays so that you can steam food as the rice is cooking!
What if you want to steam a whole fish?
Then, you would need the best food steamer in Malaysia!
Or for something even more versatile, check out the best multi-cookers in Malaysia!
4. What Other Features Should I Look For?
- A transparent lid (and removable for washing)
- Porridge mode
- Slow cook mode (If you’re looking for this, you may as well check out the best pressure cookers in Malaysia too!)
- Markings for measuring water and rice (inside the pot)
- Material of inner pot – aluminum, stainless steel, non-stick coating, clay, etc
- Thick inner pot (more durable, even heating)
- Indicator light
- Keep Warm function (automatic after cooking)
Maintaining Your Rice Cooker
Rice cookers don’t last forever but there are certain things you can do that can help! A good rice cooker can last a decade!
- Don’t rinse your rice using the inner pot. To prevent scratches to the non-stick coating!
- Additional ingredients like spices or oil can ruin a non-stick coating too
- Keep the heating element clean along with the pot
Conclusion
Do not be in a hurry to choose the best rice cooker in Malaysia for your family. Being content with the first rice pot you come across might bring you unwanted hassle later!
In this article, we will cover features and types of rice cookers you may not be aware about. And tips on how to make sure your new rice cooker lasts!
