The micom (microcomputer) rice cooker is the oldest type of the rice cooker equipped with the automatic heat control functions invented in 1979. The heat source is at the bottom of the rice cooker. It is light weight and the least expensive rice cooker compared to the IH (Induction Heating) and the pressure IH rice cookers.
“Made in Japan” often stands for high quality, reliability, durability, and cutting-edge technology.
I am Japanese and have had an opportunity to work with Japanese engineers. I was extremely impressed with their passion and seriousness toward work, their kaizen mindsets (continuous improvement), and amazing work ethics.
There are 5 micom rice cookers that are made in Japan. There has been many inquires on which models are made in Japan so I created the below comparison table to find the best model!
| Zojirushi NL-GAC10 BM  | Tiger JAX-T10U-K  | Zojirushi NL-AAC10   | Zojirushi NS-ZCC10  | Tiger JBV-S18U  | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| List Price (USD)* | $319.50 | $196.58 | $244.00 | $269.50 | $139.95 |
| Size | 5.5 cups | 5.5 cups | 5.5 cups | 5.5 cups | 10 cups |
| Keep warm time (Max.) | 12 hours | 12 hours | 12 hours | 12 hours | 12 hours |
| Easy cleaning** | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | |
| Delay Timer Setting | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Rice cook time (Approx.) | 48-59 min | 44-59 min | 52-57 min | 48-55 min | 43-74 min |
| Quick cook time (Approx.) | 27-44 min | 25-45 min | 26-39 min | 36-42 min | 23-44 min |
| Built-in retractable power cord | ✅ | ||||
| Steam cooking | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | |
| Slow cooking | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ||
| Sushi rice | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ||
| Mixed rice | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Porridge | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Sweet rice | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Brown rice | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| GABA brown rice | ✅ | ||||
| Multi-grain rice | ✅ | ✅ | |||
| Jasmine rice | ✅ |
No. 1 – Zojirushi NL-GAC10 BM
This model is finally equipped with the multi-functional cooking options (Jasmine rice, soup, slow cooking included)! This newer model (released in 2021) even comes with Umami setting option – soaks and steams rice longer for enhanced flavor!
Zojirushi rice cookers have amazing reviews and many repeated customers which tell everything.
No. 2 – Tiger JAX-T10U-K
This model is equipped with the multi-functional cooking options also! It also has the Syncro-cooking function “tacook” makes it possible to cook main dish and rice at the same time.
It is at a more affordable price compared to Zojirushi brand (priced under $200).
No. 3 – Zojirushi NL-AAC10
This model has the steam cooking option and is priced under $200. It is the most affordable Zojirushi rice cooker that are made in Japan!
No. 4 – Zojirushi NS-ZCC10
This model doesn’t come with the multi-functional cooking options, however, it is the best-designed model. It is equipped with the built-in retractable power cord and the inner cooking pan has the fold down handle for easy carry and transport.
This model is perfect for people who eat rice almost every day and are looking for the top-of-the-line rice cooker that is user-friendly and makes delicious sticky rice!
No. 5 – Tiger JBV-S18U
This model is equipped with the multi-functional cooking options also! It also has the Syncro-cooking function “tacook” makes it possible to cook main dish and rice at the same time. The size 10 cups is perfect for family of 6+.
The inner lid is not detachable for easy cleaning, however, it is the least expensive model out of 5 rice cookers that are made in Japan!
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