Does your rice cooker take too long to cook?

Last updated: 29 August 2026

Modern rice cookers can take 45 minutes or more, and many customers wonder whether the wait is worth it. This article explains why, and when a faster model makes more sense.

Cooking time is the most common complaint about modern multifunction rice cookers. It is common to hear such complaints in the West but not in Asia — Japanese and Korean customers know that modern rice cookers take 30 to 60 minutes to cook, whereas Western customers have different expectations.

In our comparison article Tiger vs Zojirushi vs Cuckoo, we recommended that you not choose the most expensive model, but rather ask yourself what you need. This includes cooking time: do you need fast performance, or the best possible results?

Why do conventional rice cookers work faster?

The most affordable type — the conventional rice cooker — is the fastest, cooking a small batch of white rice in as little as 15 minutes. Cooking time increases with the amount of rice. Brown rice needs at least an hour of soaking first.

Conventional rice cookers keep the same simple design as the original models invented in Japan. A temperature sensor sits under the pot; once the rice has absorbed all the water, the temperature rises past 100 degrees and the cooker switches from cooking mode to warming mode. With no soaking or steaming stages built into the cycle, the total time is the shortest of any rice cooker type.

Does a longer cooking time produce better results?

Basically, yes — though every customer has their own preferences. Modern multifunctional rice cookers are computer-programmed and heat the rice gradually. With induction heating and pressure functions, the heating cycle is more complicated still.

Cooking takes around 45 minutes, but the results are noticeably better, especially if you enjoy cooking different kinds of rice. Taking the Tiger JPW-G10A as an example: standard cooking takes 47 to 57 minutes, the Quick menu takes 23 to 41 minutes, and a small-batch express menu cooks up to two cups in 20 to 29 minutes. The shortest times in each range apply to the smallest quantities — a full pot always takes longer.

Multifunctional rice cookers also offer a gentler warming mode that does not affect the taste of the rice. Some Cuckoo and Buffalo models even let you adjust the temperature of the warming mode.

It is more important to have the model you need

We use IH multifunctional rice cookers at home and are very happy with the results. Even after keeping warm for hours, the rice still tastes good. In a large household where rice is eaten at different times by different people, the warming mode is what matters most.

Everyone has their own tastes, though, so the trick is to find out what appeals to you and the other members of your household. Some customers can taste the difference in the cooking results; others cannot.

If you cannot tell the difference, or if you prioritise speed over quality, then a conventional rice cooker is the best choice. In contrast, if the quality of the rice is most important, choose a multifunctional rice cooker and understand the wait is worth it.

We have a helpful team at My Cookware Australia®

If you would like to discuss what kind of rice cooker you need, feel free to contact us at any time. We will provide you with individualised advice based on your needs.

Remember that the most expensive option is not always the best option for you. You should get what you want based on your budget and your specific needs.

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