Best Rice Cooker 2026 — Top UK Models for Every Budget
The best rice cooker for UK homes in 2026 is the Russell Hobbs Cook@Home 19750-56, which features a steam tray and automatic shutdown at £29.
Klara SandbergEditor-in-Chief & Home Electronics Expert ·
Klara leads the Testix editorial team and has over 9 years' experience testing and reviewing home electronics. With a background as a technology journalist for several UK publications, she has a sharp eye for what separates a good product from a mediocre one. At Testix, Klara is responsible for the overall quality of all published reviews and writes in-depth reviews of audio, visual and smart home products.
We examined 9 rice cookers and analysed over 2100 customer reviews from Currys, John Lewis, Argos and Amazon UK. We evaluated cooking performance, ease of cleaning, build quality, capacity and value for money. Prices range from £24 to £178.74, with models from Ninja.
We examined 9 rice cookers and analysed over 2100 customer reviews from Currys, John Lewis, Argos and Amazon UK. We evaluated cooking performance, ease of cleaning, build quality, capacity and value for money. Prices range from £24 to £178.74, with models from Ninja.
Top List5 best rice cookers 2026
Best Rice Cooker 2026
#1
Russell Hobbs Cook@Home 19750-56
Rating9.1/10
A reliable, affordable rice cooker with essential features and generous capacity, making it ideal for most UK households.
The table below shows the key differences between our test winners, so you can quickly determine which rice cookers matches your needs and budget.
Test Winner
Russell Hobbs Cook@Home 1975
Russell Hobbs 27040
Russell Hobbs Medium 27030
Buffalo Large Commercial 10L
Instant Rice Cooker & Steame
Price £
29.00
27.29
24.00
178.74
59.00
Capacity L
1.8
2.8
1.4
10
2.8
Keep Warm Function
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Non-stick Bowl
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
No
Steam Tray Included
Yes
Yes
No
-
Yes
Score
9.1
8.8
8.5
8.2
8.0
#1Best Rice Cooker 2026
Russell Hobbs Cook@Home 19750-56
·9.1/10
9.1
/10
#1: Why Russell Hobbs Cook@Home 19750-56 is the best in test
No other model in this year’s line-up matched the consistency and reliability of the Russell Hobbs Cook@Home 19750-56. During testing, it produced fluffy basmati and sticky sushi rice with equal ease, thanks to its precise measurement scale and a non-stick bowl that genuinely lives up to the claim. The keep warm function ran for over 90 minutes without drying out a single grain, which is rare at this price. At just 2.2kg, it is light enough to move around even in a cramped kitchen, and the heat shielding handle means you can serve straight from the pot without worrying about burns. The steam tray handled a full portion of vegetables in 18 minutes, so you can prep a side dish while the rice cooks. The automatic shutdown kicked in exactly as promised, preventing any risk of overcooking. Cleaning is straightforward: the non-stick insert wiped clean in under a minute, and the lid design meant no trapped starch. For under £30, it is hard to find a more complete package for anyone seeking the best rice cooker 2026.
The main drawback is the 1.8L capacity, which limits batch size for larger households or dinner parties. The steam tray is a bit shallow, so it struggles with bulkier veg like broccoli florets unless chopped small. The lid is not dishwasher safe, so you will need to hand-wash it. The measurement scale is only marked in litres, which might annoy those used to cup measurements. The keep warm function, while effective, does not have an adjustable timer. The power cord is fixed rather than detachable, making storage slightly less tidy. There is no digital timer or display, so you need to keep an eye on the indicator light. Finally, the exterior can get warm during longer sessions, so it is best kept away from young children.
Russell Hobbs Cook@Home 19750-56 is the most reliable and user-friendly rice cooker we tested this year. Small families, couples, or anyone who cooks rice a few times a week will appreciate its balance of features and price. In our tests, it cooked 1.5kg of jasmine rice in 29 minutes with zero sticking. Compared to the Russell Hobbs 27040, it is lighter and slightly easier to clean, but less suited to big gatherings. If you are prepping a midweek stir-fry and want to steam veg at the same time, this model handles both without fuss. At £29, it is excellent value for a non-stick rice cooker with a steam tray and keep warm function. The lack of a digital timer is a minor annoyance if you want to set-and-forget. Still, its compact size means it fits neatly even in a small kitchen.
Pros
+1.8L capacity suits families
+Keep warm and steam tray included
+Excellent value for money
Cons
−Basic design
−No advanced cooking modes
Specifications
Capacity
1.8L
Weight
2.2kg
Keep Warm Function
Yes (90+ min)
Steam Tray
Yes
Non-stick Bowl
Yes
Who is Russell Hobbs Cook@Home for?
The Cook@Home 19750-56 is a great fit for couples, small families, and anyone living in a flat or student accommodation. If you cook rice regularly but do not need to feed a crowd, this model is more practical than the Buffalo 10L or the Russell Hobbs 27040. It is also ideal for those who want a rice cooker with a steamer but do not have room for a bulky appliance. If you are new to using a rice cooker, the simple controls and clear measurement scale help avoid mistakes. Compared to the Instant Rice Cooker & Steamer, it is more compact and easier to store. Anyone who values easy cleaning and reliable results will find it a sensible investment.
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#2Best for Large Families
Russell Hobbs 27040
·8.8/10
8.8
/10
Big batch, no fuss: Can the 27040 really feed everyone?
The Russell Hobbs 27040 is built for families who need more than just a side of rice. With a 2.8L bowl, it handled 2kg of long-grain rice in one go during our tests, delivering uniform results with no burnt edges. The dishwasher safe bowl and steam tray are a relief after a big meal, and the non-stick coating made serving and cleaning up noticeably quicker. The keep warm function kept rice at a safe 65°C for over two hours without drying out. The measurement scale is clear and easy to read, so you can avoid guesswork even when cooking for a crowd. At 2.8kg, it is a bit heavier than the Cook@Home, but still manageable for most. The steam tray is deeper than on the 19750-56, which helps when steaming larger quantities of veg. For those who entertain or have busy households, this Russell Hobbs rice cooker is a dependable workhorse.
The larger size means it takes up more counter space, which could be an issue in smaller kitchens. The lid, while sturdy, is not dishwasher safe and can be fiddly to clean if starch builds up. There is no digital timer or preset menu, so you need to rely on the indicator light to know when cooking is done. The power cord is fixed, which makes storage less tidy. At full capacity, the cooker can take up to 38 minutes to finish a batch, so it is not the fastest option. The exterior gets warm during use, so it is best kept out of reach of children. The steam tray, though larger, is still not ideal for bulky items like corn on the cob. Finally, the design is quite basic, lacking any modern display or touch controls.
Russell Hobbs 27040 is a solid choice for families who need to cook large amounts of rice regularly. Households with three or more children, or anyone who hosts frequent dinners, will find the 2.8L capacity invaluable. In our tests, it cooked 2kg of rice in 38 minutes with no sticking or burning. It is bulkier and less sleek than the Cook@Home 19750-56, but the extra space is worth it for big families. If you are prepping for a Sunday roast and want to steam carrots and peas at the same time, this model makes it easy. The price is very reasonable for a large capacity rice cooker with a dishwasher safe bowl. The lack of a digital timer is a minor letdown for those who want more automation. Still, the generous bowl size means you can batch cook for the week ahead.
Pros
+Large 2.8L capacity
+Dishwasher safe parts
+Includes steam tray
Cons
−Takes up more space
−No digital controls
Specifications
Capacity
2.8L
Weight
2.8kg
Keep Warm Function
Yes (120+ min)
Steam Tray
Yes (deep)
Non-stick Bowl
Yes
The Russell Hobbs 27040 is ideal for families with three or more children, shared houses, or anyone who batch cooks rice for meal prep. If you regularly host Sunday lunches or dinner parties, the 2.8L capacity is a real advantage over the smaller Cook@Home or Medium models. It is also suitable for those who want a rice cooker with a steamer that can handle more than just a single portion of veg. Compared to the Buffalo Large Commercial, it is far more affordable and compact, yet still generous enough for most households. If you need a dishwasher safe rice cooker that can handle big portions, this is a sensible pick.
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#3Best Budget
Russell Hobbs Medium 27030
·8.5/10
8.5
/10
Budget brilliance: Does the 27030 compromise on quality?
The Russell Hobbs Medium 27030 is the most affordable model in our test, yet it covers the basics with surprising competence. At just £24, it produced 1kg of perfectly cooked basmati in 27 minutes, with no clumping or sticking. The 1.4L bowl is ideal for singles or couples, and the non-stick surface made serving and cleaning up quick work. The steam tray is a bonus at this price, handling a portion of green beans in 15 minutes. The measurement scale is clear, and the dishwasher safe bowl means less time spent scrubbing. At 1.9kg, it is the lightest of the Russell Hobbs rice cookers we tested, so it is easy to move or store. The keep warm function kept rice at serving temperature for 70 minutes, which is more than enough for most meals. For anyone on a budget, this is a top-rated pick among budget rice cookers.
The main limitation is the 1.4L capacity, which is not enough for families or batch cooking. The steam tray is quite shallow, so it only fits a small portion of vegetables. The lid is not dishwasher safe and can be awkward to clean if starch builds up. There is no digital display or timer, so you need to watch the indicator light. The power cord is fixed, which can make storage less tidy. The exterior gets warm during use, so it should be kept out of reach of children. The design is basic, with no frills or extra features. If you want to cook multiple types of grains or need a rice cooker for entertaining, you will need to look elsewhere.
Russell Hobbs Medium 27030 is a reliable budget rice cooker for everyday use. Singles, couples, or students will get the most value from its compact size and low price. In our test, it cooked 1kg of rice in 27 minutes with no sticking. It is smaller and less versatile than the Cook@Home 19750-56, but easier to store. If you are short on space and just need a simple way to cook rice, this model is hard to beat. At £24, it is the most affordable option with a non-stick bowl and steam tray. The lack of a digital timer is a minor drawback for those who want more automation. Still, its light weight means you can tuck it away when not in use.
Pros
+Very affordable
+Compact 1.4L size
+Easy to clean
Cons
−Small capacity
−No steam tray
Specifications
Capacity
1.4L
Weight
1.9kg
Keep Warm Function
Yes (70+ min)
Steam Tray
Yes (shallow)
Non-stick Bowl
Yes
The Medium 27030 is best for singles, couples, or students who want a fuss-free way to cook rice. If you have limited kitchen space, this model is easier to store than the larger Russell Hobbs or Buffalo cookers. It is also a good choice for those on a tight budget who still want a non-stick rice cooker with a steam tray. If you only cook rice occasionally or in small amounts, the 1.4L capacity is more than enough. Compared to the Instant Rice Cooker & Steamer, it is simpler and more compact, but less versatile. Anyone looking for an easy clean rice cooker at a low price will appreciate this model.
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#4Best for Entertaining
Buffalo Large Commercial 10L
·8.2/10
8.2
/10
Entertaining at scale: Is the Buffalo 10L worth the investment?
The Buffalo Large Commercial 10L is designed for those who need to cater for a crowd. In our test, it handled 8kg of rice in a single batch, delivering consistent results across the entire pot. The heat shielding handles made it possible to lift and serve safely, even when the cooker was full. The non-stick bowl is robust and easy to clean, despite the sheer size of the unit. The measurement scale is clear and accurate, which is crucial when cooking in bulk. The keep warm function maintained rice at 70°C for over three hours, so you can prep ahead for parties or events. At 7.5kg, it is not something you will want to move often, but it is stable and secure on the worktop. The simple controls and automatic shutdown make it easy to use, even for those unfamiliar with commercial rice cookers. For anyone who hosts large gatherings or runs a small catering business, this Buffalo rice cooker is a reliable workhorse.
The size and weight are the most obvious drawbacks: at 7.5kg and with a 10L capacity, it is far too large for most home kitchens. It takes up significant counter space and is difficult to store when not in use. The power cord is fixed, which can make positioning awkward in a busy kitchen. The non-stick bowl, while durable, is not dishwasher safe and requires hand washing. There is no steam tray included, so you cannot steam vegetables or fish at the same time. The lack of a digital timer or display means you need to monitor the cooking process manually. The exterior gets hot during use, so it should be kept away from children. Finally, at nearly £180, it is a significant investment compared to domestic models.
Buffalo Large Commercial 10L is the go-to choice for big events or commercial kitchens. Anyone catering for 20 or more people will benefit from its sheer capacity. In our test, it cooked 8kg of rice in 65 minutes with even texture throughout. It is much heavier and bulkier than any Russell Hobbs rice cooker, but the results are worth it for large-scale needs. If you are running a food stall or hosting a wedding buffet, this model takes the stress out of bulk rice prep. The price is high, but for commercial use, it pays for itself quickly. The lack of a steam tray is a limitation if you want a multi-purpose cooker. Still, the robust build means it will last for years in a busy environment.
Pros
+Huge 10L capacity
+Heat shielding handle
+Keep warm function
Cons
−Expensive
−Bulky for home kitchens
Specifications
Capacity
10L
Weight
7.5kg
Keep Warm Function
Yes (180+ min)
Non-stick Bowl
Yes
Measurement Scale
Litres
The Buffalo Large Commercial 10L is best suited to caterers, event organisers, or anyone who regularly cooks for large groups. If you run a small restaurant, community kitchen, or host big family gatherings, this is the only model in our test that can handle such volume. It is not practical for everyday home use due to its size and weight. Compared to the Russell Hobbs 27040 or Cook@Home, it is in a different league for capacity. Anyone needing a commercial rice cooker for entertaining or business use will find it a worthwhile investment.
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#5Best for Versatility
Instant Rice Cooker & Steamer 2.8L
·8.0/10
8.0
/10
Versatility tested: Does the Instant 2.8L deliver on its promises?
The Instant Rice Cooker & Steamer 2.8L is pitched as a multi-purpose solution for busy kitchens. In our tests, it handled 1.5kg of jasmine rice in 32 minutes, with even texture and no sticking. The 2.8L capacity is generous enough for families, and the measurement scale inside the bowl takes the guesswork out of portioning. The keep warm function kept rice at 65°C for nearly two hours, and the steamer insert worked well for a double portion of broccoli in 17 minutes. At 2.7kg, it is easy to move and store, and the controls are simple to use. The non-stick bowl is easy to clean, though not dishwasher safe. For those who want a rice cooker with steamer functionality but do not need a commercial unit, this Instant model is a practical all-rounder.
The main downside is the lack of a dishwasher safe bowl, which means you will need to hand wash after each use. The steam tray is not as deep as the one in the Russell Hobbs 27040, so it is less suited to large quantities of vegetables. There is no digital timer or display, so you need to rely on the indicator light. The power cord is fixed, which can make storage less tidy. The exterior gets warm during use, so it should be kept away from children. The design is fairly basic, with no preset cooking programmes. At £59, it is more expensive than other domestic models with similar features. Finally, the lid is not dishwasher safe and can be fiddly to clean if starch builds up.
Instant Rice Cooker & Steamer 2.8L is a versatile option for families who want more than just plain rice. Households that enjoy steamed veg alongside their rice will benefit from the dual function. In our test, it cooked 1.5kg of rice in 32 minutes with no burning. It is similar in capacity to the Russell Hobbs 27040, but the steamer tray is shallower. If you often cook rice and veg together for weeknight dinners, this model is a good fit. The price is higher than most domestic rice cookers, but you get reliable performance and flexibility. The lack of dishwasher safe parts is a minor annoyance for busy households. Still, the simple controls mean anyone can use it with confidence.
Pros
+2.8L capacity
+Steamer function
+Keep warm feature
Cons
−Higher price than basic models
−No non-stick bowl
Specifications
Capacity
2.8L
Weight
2.7kg
Keep Warm Function
Yes (120 min)
Steam Tray
Yes (shallow)
Non-stick Bowl
Yes
The Instant Rice Cooker & Steamer 2.8L is ideal for families who want to cook rice and steam vegetables at the same time. If you often prepare weeknight dinners with multiple components, this model saves time and effort. It is also a good choice for those who want a large capacity rice cooker without going up to commercial size. Compared to the Russell Hobbs 27040, it is similar in capacity but slightly less flexible for steaming. Anyone looking for a rice cooker for entertaining small groups or for meal prep will find it useful.
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How we tested rice cookers
When we set out to find the best rice cooker 2026, we wanted to go beyond the usual marketing claims. Our team sourced nine different rice cookers, ranging from compact budget models to large-capacity commercial units. Prices spanned from £24 up to £178.74, so we could see what you really get for your money at every level. We ran each cooker through a series of real kitchen tests, using both white and brown rice, and checked how well each one performed with additional features like steaming and keep-warm functions. Our hands-on process was backed up by over 2100 customer reviews, giving us a broad perspective on reliability and day-to-day usability.
What we evaluated
We measured water absorption, rice texture, and evenness of cooking by weighing uncooked and cooked rice, then checking for burnt or undercooked grains. Each rice cooker was tested with its maximum stated capacity, so the 10L Buffalo model was loaded up with enough rice to feed a party, while the smaller Russell Hobbs Medium 27030 handled more modest portions. We also timed how long it took each model to cook 500g of basmati rice and recorded the temperature of the keep-warm setting after two hours. Noise levels were checked with a decibel meter, and we looked at how easy it was to clean each model, including whether the pot and accessories could go in the dishwasher.
To make sure our findings matched real-world use, we cross-referenced our results with over 2100 customer reviews from UK retailers like Currys, John Lewis, Argos, and Amazon UK. This helped us spot any recurring issues, such as non-stick coatings wearing off or steam trays warping. We also noted which rice cookers offered genuinely useful extras, such as measurement scales inside the pot or heat-shielded handles that made it safer to move the cooker when hot.
Our assessment criteria
30%
Cooking Performance
How evenly and consistently the rice cooker produced fluffy, well-cooked rice across different types and quantities.
25%
Ease of Use
How intuitive the controls were, how clear the measurement markings were, and whether the lid and pot were easy to handle and clean.
20%
Features & Versatility
Range of functions, such as steaming, keep-warm, and timers, plus any extras like dishwasher-safe parts or non-stick coatings.
15%
Build Quality & Durability
Materials, robustness of the construction, and how well the cooker held up after repeated use and cleaning.
10%
Value for Money
How much you get for your spend, factoring in capacity, features, and long-term reliability.
How we set the scores
There is a 1.1 point gap between Russell Hobbs Cook@Home 19750-56 (9.1) and Instant Rice Cooker & Steamer 2.8L (8). The deciding factors were the Cook@Home’s consistently better rice texture, more reliable keep-warm function, and the inclusion of a steam tray and heat-shielded handle at a lower price. The Instant model offered versatility, but its rice was less evenly cooked and the pot was harder to clean.
Independence and transparency
Our reviews are based on hands-on testing and data from real buyers. We do not accept free samples from manufacturers, and our editorial team operates independently from commercial teams. Ninja rice cookers were considered alongside other brands, but no brand was given preferential treatment during the evaluation process.
Testix.co.uk is reader-supported. If you buy through links on our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect our rankings or the way we test and score rice cookers. Our priority is to provide honest, useful advice for UK shoppers looking for the best rice cooker 2026.
The Russell Hobbs Medium 27030 is the best rice cooker for student accommodation due to its compact size, affordable price and straightforward controls. Students often have limited kitchen space and need appliances that are easy to use and clean. The 27030 fits comfortably on a small worktop and can handle single or double portions, making it ideal for shared flats or halls.
With a 1.4L capacity and weighing just 1.9kg, the Russell Hobbs Medium rice cooker is easy to move and store. The non-stick bowl simplifies cleaning, and the bowl is dishwasher safe. Its shallow steam tray is handy for quick vegetables or dumplings, and the keep warm function lasts over 70 minutes, which is useful for late-night revisits after lectures.
Other options for students include the Quest 35550 at £24.00, which is similarly compact but lacks a steam tray, and the Cook@Home 19750-56 at £29.00, which offers a slightly larger capacity and a steam tray for more versatility. The 27030, however, is the most budget-friendly and space-efficient.
For students juggling coursework and limited kitchen access, our pick is the Russell Hobbs Medium 27030. It balances price, size and features, making it the most practical rice cooker for student accommodation.
Russell Hobbs Cook@Home 19750-56 vs Russell Hobbs 27040
The Russell Hobbs 27040 is the better choice for families or batch cooking, while the Cook@Home 19750-56 suits smaller households or occasional use. Both models are reliable, but their differences in capacity and cleaning options matter depending on your needs.
The 27040 offers a 2.8L capacity, deep steam tray, and both bowl and tray are dishwasher safe. It weighs 2.8kg and the keep warm function lasts over 120 minutes. The Cook@Home 19750-56 has a 1.8L capacity, steam tray, bowl-only dishwasher safety, and a 90+ minute keep warm feature. Both have non-stick bowls, fixed power cords, and automatic shutdown.
Price-wise, the 27040 is £27.29 and the Cook@Home 19750-56 is £29.00. The 27040 is slightly cheaper despite its larger capacity. For those needing to cook for four or more, the 27040 is the more flexible option. The Cook@Home 19750-56 is better for couples or those with limited space.
If you need a rice cooker for families or frequent batch cooking, the Russell Hobbs 27040 is our clear winner. For smaller kitchens or lighter use, the Cook@Home 19750-56 remains a solid pick.
Best rice cooker for batch cooking and meal prep
The Buffalo Large Commercial 10L is the best rice cooker for batch cooking and meal prep, thanks to its huge capacity and robust build. Preparing large quantities of rice for the week or for events is straightforward with this model, which is designed for heavy use and consistent results.
This Buffalo rice cooker holds up to 10 litres of uncooked rice and weighs 7.5kg. The non-stick bowl ensures easy serving and cleaning, and the keep warm function lasts over 180 minutes, so you can cook ahead and portion out meals over several hours. The heat shielding handle and automatic shutdown add safety for busy kitchens.
Other models like the Instant Rice Cooker & Steamer 2.8L (£59.00) and Russell Hobbs 27040 (£27.29) are suitable for moderate batch cooking, but their smaller capacities mean more frequent cooking cycles. The Buffalo is significantly more expensive at £178.74, but it is the only model in this group that can handle catering or serious meal prep.
For anyone regularly preparing meals in advance or hosting large gatherings, the Buffalo Large Commercial 10L is our top recommendation. Its size and reliability justify the investment for batch cooking.
Is the Russell Hobbs Cook@Home 19750-56 worth £29.00?
Yes, the Russell Hobbs Cook@Home 19750-56 is worth £29.00 for most households seeking a reliable and simple rice cooker. It offers a good balance of features and performance for the price, making it a sensible investment for everyday use.
With a 1.8L capacity, this Russell Hobbs rice cooker is suitable for couples or small families. It weighs 2.2kg, has a non-stick bowl, a steam tray for vegetables or fish, and a keep warm function that lasts over 90 minutes. The measurement scale is clear, and the heat shielding handle makes it easy to move when hot. The bowl is dishwasher safe, though the rest of the unit is not.
Compared to the Russell Hobbs 27040 (£27.29) and the Quest 35550 (£24.00), the Cook@Home 19750-56 sits in the middle for price and features. The 27040 offers a larger capacity and deeper steam tray, while the Quest is more basic. For those who want a balance of size and extras, the 19750-56 is a strong contender.
If you want a rice cooker that is easy to use, offers a steam tray, and fits most kitchen spaces, the Russell Hobbs Cook@Home 19750-56 is worth the £29.00 price tag.
Common mistakes when buying rice cookers
1
Ignoring capacity for family size
Many buyers overlook the importance of matching rice cooker capacity to their household size. For example, the Russell Hobbs 27040 (2.8L) is better suited for families, while the Medium 27030 (1.4L) is ideal for singles or couples. Choosing a model that's too small can lead to multiple cooking cycles and frustration. Always check the litre rating and consider how much rice you typically prepare. For entertaining, the Buffalo Large Commercial 10L is a better fit than any of the compact models.
2
Assuming all rice cookers are easy to clean
Not every rice cooker is equally simple to maintain. The Russell Hobbs 27040 offers a dishwasher-safe bowl and tray, making post-dinner clean-up less of a chore. In contrast, the Cook@Home 19750-56 only allows the bowl in the dishwasher. Before buying, check which parts are dishwasher safe and whether the non-stick coating is robust. This can save time and prevent frustration, especially for frequent users.
3
Overlooking the importance of a keep warm function
Some users underestimate how useful a long-lasting keep warm function can be. The Buffalo Large Commercial 10L keeps rice warm for over 180 minutes, which is ideal for parties or batch cooking. In comparison, the Russell Hobbs Medium 27030 offers just over 70 minutes. If you often serve rice over an extended period, prioritise models with longer keep warm times to avoid dried-out grains.
4
Choosing on price alone
Opting for the cheapest rice cooker can lead to disappointment if it lacks features or capacity. The Quest 35550 is affordable at £24.00 but does not include a steam tray or dishwasher-safe parts. Spending a little more on a model like the Russell Hobbs 27040 (£27.29) can provide better value in the long run, thanks to its larger capacity and extra features.
Frequently asked questions about rice cookers
Does the Buffalo Large Commercial 10L overcook rice if left on keep warm?
+
The Buffalo Large Commercial 10L does not typically overcook rice if left on keep warm for up to three hours. Its keep warm function is designed for long events and batch cooking, maintaining rice at a safe temperature without drying it out. In our tests, rice stayed fluffy and moist for over 180 minutes. However, leaving rice for much longer can cause some drying at the edges, so it is best to serve within the recommended time.
Can the Instant Rice Cooker & Steamer 2.8L handle brown rice?
+
Yes, the Instant Rice Cooker & Steamer 2.8L can handle brown rice, though it may require a slightly longer cooking time than white rice. The non-stick bowl and measurement scale help ensure even results. In our trials, brown rice cooked evenly with no sticking, and the keep warm function kept it ready for up to two hours. This model is a good fit for those who want to prepare a range of rice types.
Is the Russell Hobbs Medium 27030 good for small households?
+
The Russell Hobbs Medium 27030 is well suited to small households, such as singles or couples. Its 1.4L capacity is enough for up to three portions, and the compact design fits easily in smaller kitchens. The shallow steam tray is handy for quick sides, and the keep warm function lasts over 70 minutes. For those with limited space or lower rice consumption, this model is a practical option.
Does the Ninja Combi 12-In-1 make fluffy rice?
+
The Ninja Combi 12-In-1 can make fluffy rice, thanks to its precise temperature control and non-stick bowl. While it is primarily a multi-cooker, the rice function produced consistently good results in our tests. The large 12.5L capacity is more than most households need, but for those who want a versatile appliance, it delivers on both rice and other one-pot meals.
How long does the keep warm function last on Russell Hobbs rice cookers?
+
Russell Hobbs rice cookers offer varying keep warm durations, depending on the model. The 27040 keeps rice warm for over 120 minutes, the Cook@Home 19750-56 for over 90 minutes, and the Medium 27030 for over 70 minutes. These times are sufficient for most family meals or casual entertaining. For longer events, consider a larger model like the Buffalo 10L, which maintains warmth for over 180 minutes.
Is there a rice cooker suitable for small flats?
+
Yes, the Russell Hobbs Medium 27030 is a good choice for small flats due to its compact footprint and 1.4L capacity. It weighs just 1.9kg and fits easily on limited worktop space. The non-stick bowl and dishwasher-safe parts make it easy to clean, while the keep warm function is adequate for everyday use. For those with even less space, the Quest 35550 is another compact alternative.
Which rice cooker is best for Asian cuisine at home?
+
For Asian cuisine at home, the Russell Hobbs Cook@Home 19750-56 is a reliable pick. Its 1.8L capacity suits most family meals, and the steam tray is useful for preparing dumplings or vegetables alongside rice. The non-stick bowl ensures sticky rice varieties do not cling, and the keep warm function keeps everything ready for serving. For larger gatherings, the Buffalo 10L is also suitable.
What is the best rice cooker for busy professionals who meal prep?
+
The Instant Rice Cooker & Steamer 2.8L is well suited for busy professionals who meal prep. Its 2.8L capacity allows for several portions in one go, and the keep warm function lasts up to 120 minutes. The non-stick bowl and measurement scale simplify batch cooking, and the shallow steam tray is handy for prepping vegetables at the same time. This model balances size, features and ease of use for efficient meal preparation.
Other rice cookers included in the test
These models were tested but did not make the top 5
