The friendly voice of a Cuckoo Rice Cooker telling you that your rice is ready is the sweet sound of home heard in the kitchens of millions of rice lovers around the world. The aroma of rice being cooked by Cuckoo is glorious, and the finished product is reliably delicious with a shiny luster and subtle nutty sweetness. The rice is cooked with the push of a button but tastes just as good as the rice our ancestors cooked in traditional Korean cauldrons.
The simple yet super smart technology will have you hooked, but before discussing rice cookers, it’s important to talk about the significance of rice to Koreans.
Rice is the most important food in Korea. For Korean people, it is more than just food, it is a cultural symbol. They eat rice multiple times every day and it is not an exaggeration to say that the life of a Korean begins and ends with rice. In fact, one of the most common Korean greeting phrase is “밥은 먹었어요?” (“did you eat rice?“).
In the old days, around the time a child was to be born in Korea, prayers along with a bowl of carefully prepared rice and a bundle of seaweed were presented to a Samshin Halmoni (삼신할머니), a traditional deity who was believed to preside over the birth and health of the mother and the child. After giving birth, a mother’s first meal is cooked white rice with seaweed soup. At a child’s first birthday, called doljanchi, a baby’s future is predicted by laying out rice, threads, brushes, and other things, and if the baby chooses rice, he/she is predicted to have a life of abundance.
At the end of life, just before putting a body into a coffin and burying it in the ground, the body was fed raw rice three times with willow chopsticks so that he/she could go to the afterlife without being hungry. The most important food in Korean ancestral rites is white rice. This ritual is a cultural aspect that can only be found in Korean people.
With Koreans so serious about well-cooked rice, it is no surprise that one Korean rice cooker brand dominates the market. Cuckoo started off as the thermal rice cooker division of Sungkwang Co., Ltd., which was founded in 1978. The brand Cuckoo was born in 1998 when it added a ‘pressure’ function that was not available in Korea until then. The corporation changed its name to Cuckoo Electronics Co., Ltd. in 2002, and although the company offers a lineup of many small appliances, the Cuckoo Rice Cooker remains the face of the business.
Until 1998, the majority of Korean people used Japanese rice cookers which were more advanced than Korean versions at the time. However, the Cuckoo rice cooker completely changed the perception of Korean rice cookers and it quickly became the #1 selling rice cooker in Korea since its launching year and is now one of the best-selling rice cookers in the world. Cuckoo rice cookers are known for their advanced technology and the company is obsessed with its drive to innovate and improve the rice cooking possibilities.
Cuckoo rice cookers are for everyone including those who want to buy their first rice cooker, those who want to upgrade their current rice cooker, or those who want the absolute best possible technology for cooking any kind of rice. The higher-end models feature the famous voice feature that guides the cooking process as well as the pressure cooking capabilities that allow you to make perfectly cooked brown and mixed grain rice without soaking it all day.
There are so many options when shopping for a Cuckoo that we’ve narrowed them down to the most popular models to help you select the one that best fits your needs. Here are our top 5 choices, whether you are shopping for yourself or shopping for a gift.
Quick Comparison
| 🌟 BEST OF KOREA TOP PICK | |||||
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| Cuckoo CR-0675F | Cuckoo CR-0632F | Cuckoo CRP-RT0609FW | CUCKOO CRP-DHSR0609FD | Cuckoo CRP-LHTR0609F | |
| Price | $95 | $118 | $259 | $527 | $548 |
| Pressure Type | Non-pressure | Non-pressure | Twin Pressure (Non-Pressure, High Pressure) |
High Pressure | Twin Pressure (Non-Pressure, High Pressure) |
| Induction Heating | ✓ | ✓ | |||
| Capacity Uncooked (Cooked) | 6 Cups (12 Cups Cooked) | 6 Cups (12 Cups Cooked) | 6 Cups (12 Cups Cooked) | 6 Cups (12 Cups Cooked) | 6 Cups (12 Cups Cooked) |
| MENU Options | 13 | 11 | 14 | 23 | 23 |
| Inner Pot Type | Non-Stick Coating Inner Pot | Non-Stick Coating Inner Pot | X-wall Diamond Coated Non-stick Inner Pot | X-Wall Black Shine Coated Full Stainless Steel Inner Pot | X-Wall Black Shine Coated Full Stainless Steel Inner Pot |
| My Mode (Rice Flavor & Texture customization) | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Smart Technology | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | |
| Detachable Inner Lid for Easy Cleaning | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Voice Guide (English, Chinese, and Korean) | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ||
| Accessories | Rice Scoop, Measuring Cup, User Manual | Rice Scoop, Measuring Cup, User Manual | Rice Scoop, Measuring Cup, User Manual | Measuring cup, Rice Scooper, Cleaning Pin, User Manual, Steam Plate | Measuring cup, Rice Scooper, Cleaning Pin, User Manual, Steam Plate |
| Country of Origin | China | Korea | Korea | Korea | Korea |
Product Details (Listed in order of price):
Cuckoo Rice Cooker CR-0675F | 6-Cup Micom Rice Cooker, $95
This cute and sleek-looking Cuckoo rice cooker is perfect for those who want to buy their first rice cooker. Introductory models such as this one don’t have the voice feature or the pressure cooking ability but at under $100, you will be surprised how well this machine makes rice.
The Features are:
- MULTI-FUNCTIONAL: Features a versatile multi-cook function that allows you to prepare everything from oatmeal to quinoa amongst 13 other operating modes such as white rice, GABA rice, porridge, scorched rice, baby food, and more!
- KITCHEN STAPLE: From small family gatherings to entertaining a few guests, this rice cooker provides the perfect serving amount with a large 12-cup (cooked) capacity.
- EASY TO USE: Effortlessly create meals with features like user-friendly digital controls, a modern LCD display, an included rice measuring cup for precise measuring, and Fuzzy Logic technology that is designed to cook rice flawlessly every time.
- PREMIUM QUALITY: Featuring a non-toxic nonstick inner pot with superior durability, an auto-clean function that steam cleans the interior of your cooker, and a removable excess water drainage tray—cooking and clean-up are a breeze!
- COMPLETE CUSTOMIZATION: Customize the exact texture and flavor of your rice; sticky, soft, and savory by adjusting the cooking cycle’s temperature and soaking time.
- SMART TECHNOLOGY: Features Fuzzy Logic Technology that automatically detects the grain type and internal temperature and automatic keep-warm mode, effectively taking the guesswork out of perfectly cooked rice.
- DETACHABLE INNER LID: For your convenience, while cleaning, the unit comes with an inner lid to easily remove and clean so that your rice will still taste great use after use.
Cuckoo Rice Cooker CR-0632F | 6-Cup Micom Rice Cooker, $118
This is one of the steady best-sellers among Cuckoo rice cookers. This reliable rice cooker is another great option for novice rice cooker shoppers. Again, no voice feature but this cooker will make you the perfect white rice within 35 minutes and let you have hot rice on the ready for up to 48 hours with automatic “Keep Warm” after cooking.
The Features are:
- VERSATILE & MULTI-FUNCTIONAL: Enjoy 11 operating modes in white rice, brown/GABA rice, and porridge, along with the multi-cook function that cooks every grain from quinoa to oatmeal and a variety of dishes from breakfast to dessert.
- KITCHEN STAPLE: From small family gatherings to entertaining a few guests, this rice cooker provides the perfect serving amount with a 12-cup (cooked) capacity.
- EASY TO USE: Effortlessly create meals with user-friendly digital controls, a modern LCD display, and Fuzzy Logic technology that is designed to prepare flawlessly cooked rice every time.
- MY MODE: Whether you enjoy sticky rice, soft rice, sweet rice, or savory rice, the My Mode option allows you to select up to 16 different rice textures and flavors.
- PREMIUM QUALITY: Featuring a nonstick inner pot with superior durability, detachable inner lid, and excess water drainage tray—cooking and cleaning up is a breeze!
- DETACHABLE INNER LID: For your convenience, while cleaning, the unit comes with an inner lid to easily remove and clean so that your rice will still taste great use after use.
Cuckoo Rice Cooker CRP-RT0609FW| 6-Cup Twin Pressure Plate Rice Cooker & Warmer with High Heat, $259
This is also one of the steady best-sellers and the best upgrade option. With all the wonderful benefits of the Cuckoo rice cookers above, this model will speak to you in Korean, English, or Chinese! You will also have two extra modes; high pressure and non-pressure, and you have more choices with the texture of your rice.
With high pressure, you can cook mixed grain rice and regular rice and your rice will be moist and flavorful. However if you like a less moist rice, try experimenting with the non-pressure setting. This might require a couple hours of pre-soaking but it will produce a deliciously fluffy bowl of rice.
Either way, I love the fact that I can cook my rice in different ways, even toasted rice (nurungji) with just the push of one button!
The Features are:
- TWIN PRESSURE: Choose between pressure cooking or non-pressure cooking for specific and customized desired results—high pressure will yield deliciously made sticky rice while non-pressure will result in unbelievably fluffy rice!
- MULTI-FUNCTIONAL: Its LED display panel has 14 operating modes including GABA rice, white rice, scorched rice, porridge, baby food, steam, and more to easily make a variety of different side dishes and meals.
- IDEAL CAPACITY: Its 6-cup capacity (12 cups cooked) is the perfect size for large families or entertaining. It can also prepare side dishes and steam vegetables.
- SMART TECHNOLOGY: Features an energy-saving smart algorithm that automatically detects the grain type and internal temperature and an automatic keep-warm mode, effectively taking the guesswork out of perfectly cooked rice.
- SAFE STEAM RELEASE: Automatically releases pressure softly and quietly for a safe, convenient cooking experience and includes an overheating alarm that will alert you if the cooker’s internal or external temperature is too high—your safety always comes first!
- PREMIUM QUALITY: Includes a stainless steel inner pot with X-Wall nonstick diamond coating designed for optimal heat distribution, is built to last and is easy to clean.
- DETACHABLE INNER LID: For your convenience, while cleaning, the unit comes with an inner lid to easily remove and clean so that your rice will still taste great use after use.
- VOICE GUIDE: Complete with voice navigation in 3 different languages (English, Chinese, and Korean), this cooker will act as your personal kitchen assistant as it cooks, and you relax.
*Please note the numbers on the screen reflect cooking time and warming time. This model does not have a clock that shows the time of day.
CUCKOO Rice Cooker CRP-DHSR0609FD | 6-Cup Induction Heating Pressure Rice Cooker, $527
This modern-looking dark hematite pressure rice cooker is for the ones who are serious about their rice. This talking cooker will deliver you flawlessly cooked rice every time! Also, you will have your white rice as soon as 20 minutes with an induction heating system, heating completely surrounds the inner pot compared to other traditional bottom-plate heating. You will never taste better rice!
The Features are:
- INDUCTION HEATING: Compared to traditional bottom-plate heating, induction technology completely surrounds the inner pot making the cooking process quicker, more efficient and delivering more delicious results
- MULTI-FUNCTIONAL: Enjoy 23 operating modes in white and brown rice, porridge, steam, bread baking, and a versatile multi-cook function to easily make a variety of different side dishes and meals.
- EFFICIENT & SMART: Features an LED screen complete with simple touch controls and Fuzzy Logic technology—the cooker will automatically detect and adjust its temperature and pressure accordingly for perfectly cooked rice, every time.
- IDEAL CAPACITY: Its 6-cup capacity is the perfect size for small families and preparing side dishes, hearty breakfasts, and everything in between!
- PREMIUM QUALITY: Includes a stainless steel inner pot with premium X-Wall nonstick coating that is designed for optimal heat distribution, is built to last and is easy to clean.
- DETACHABLE INNER LID: For your convenience while cleaning, the unit comes with an inner lid to easily remove and clean so that your rice will still taste great use after use.
- MY MODE: Whether you enjoy sticky rice, soft rice, sweet rice, or savory rice, My Mode allows you to take complete control with an array of unique rice flavor and texture options.
- SMART TECHNOLOGY: Features an energy-saving smart algorithm that automatically detects the grain type and internal temperature and automatic keep-warm mode, effectively taking the guesswork out of perfectly cooked rice.
- VOICE GUIDE: Complete with voice navigation in 3 different languages (English, Chinese, and Korean), this cooker will act as your personal kitchen assistant as it cooks, and you relax.
Cuckoo Rice Cooker CRP-LHTR0609F | 6-Cup Twin Pressure Induction Heating Rice Cooker, $548
This talking rice cooker is one of the newer Cuckoo rice cookers and a state of art. If you want the most hi-tech rice cooker out there, here it is! This cooking robot will amaze you with perfectly sticky and steamed brown rice in less than an hour with induction technology. An investment in this beauty will be dollars well spent if you are serious about rice.
The Features are:
- TWIN PRESSURE: Choose between pressure cooking or non-pressure cooking for specific and customized desired results—high pressure will yield deliciously made sticky rice while non-pressure will result in unbelievably fluffy rice.
- INDUCTION HEATING: Compared to traditional bottom-plate heating, induction technology completely surrounds the inner pot making the cooking process quicker, more efficient and delivering more delicious results.
- MULTI-FUNCTIONAL: Its LED display panel has 23 operating modes including GABA/brown rice, white rice, scorched rice, porridge, baby food, veggie rice, high-pressure or non-pressure steam, and more to easily make a variety of different side dishes and meals.
- IDEAL CAPACITY: Its 6-cup capacity (12-cup cooked) is the perfect size for medium-sized families or entertaining and can prepare side dishes, family meals, and everything in between.
- SMART TECHNOLOGY: Features an energy-saving smart algorithm that automatically detects the grain type and internal temperature and automatic keep-warm mode, effectively taking the guesswork out of perfectly cooked rice.
- SAFE STEAM RELEASE: Automatically releases pressure softly and quietly for a safe, convenient cooking experience and includes an overheating alarm that will alert you if the cooker’s internal or external temperature is too high—your safety always comes first!
- PREMIUM QUALITY: Includes a scratch-resistant stainless steel inner pot with X-Wall nonstick black shine coating designed for optimal heat distribution, is built to last and is easy to clean.
- DETACHABLE INNER LID: For your convenience, while cleaning, the unit comes with an inner lid to easily remove and clean so that your rice will still taste great use after use.
- VOICE GUIDE: Complete with voice navigation in 3 different languages (English, Chinese, and Korean), this cooker will act as your personal kitchen assistant as it cooks, and you relax.
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