The first time I tried cooking rice in the Zojirushi NL-GAC10BM, I immediately noticed it wasn’t just another rice cooker—it felt like a small, intelligent kitchen companion that understood what I wanted better than I did. I’ve tested several rice cookers over the years, from budget models to premium induction ones, and very few have managed to deliver consistent, flavorful rice without demanding any effort from me.
What struck me most about this model is how quietly it elevates even basic cooking. Whether I’m preparing jasmine rice for dinner, slow-cooking a soup on a lazy weekend, or steaming vegetables for quick meals, it feels like the cooker anticipates my needs. After weeks of hands-on use, here’s my complete experience with this Umami Micom rice cooker—and whether I think it’s worth adding to your kitchen.
- Adjust Temperature Automatically: It features Microcomputer (MICOM) that automatically adjusts...
Key Features and Specs
- Style: Rice Cooker & Warmer
- Brand: Zojirushi
- Capacity: 5.5 cups (uncooked)
- Dimensions: 14.88″ D × 10.13″ W × 8.75″ H
- Power Source: Corded Electric
- Care Instructions: Hand-wash cooker; inner pan can go on top rack of dishwasher
Notable Features
- Microcomputer (MICOM) automatically controls temperature and time
- Easy-to-read LCD control panel with clock & timer
- Nonstick coated 1.5 mm cooking pan with measurement lines
- Detachable, washable inner lid
- Menu settings for: white, umami, jasmine, quick jasmine, sushi/sweet, mixed, porridge, congee, brown, GABA brown, quick white, steam & slow cook
- Comes with steaming basket, rice measuring cup, spatula & spatula holder
- BPA-free food-contact surfaces
- Made in Japan
Zojirushi NL-GAC10BM 5.5-Cup Umami Micom Rice Cooker & Warmer Review
Before diving into individual sections, let me set the scene:
Using this rice cooker feels like switching from manual driving to automatic. Everything becomes smoother, predictable, and honestly, more enjoyable. It didn’t take long before I stopped double-checking the rice, because it delivered the same fluffy, aromatic results every time.
- Adjust Temperature Automatically: It features Microcomputer (MICOM) that automatically adjusts...
Let’s break down my experience.
Design
The first thing I noticed about the NL-GAC10BM was how compact it is. Despite offering a 5.5-cup capacity, it doesn’t hog counter space. The rounded body gives it a clean, modern aesthetic, and the brushed exterior has a premium look without being overly flashy.
The lid opens with a soft, controlled motion, which I really appreciate because some rice cookers tend to fling droplets of steam everywhere. Inside, the 1.5 mm nonstick pan feels sturdy—thicker than most mid-tier rice cookers I’ve handled. Measurement lines are clear and easy to read even when rinsing rice.
The control panel is laid out in a way that makes sense at a glance. The buttons are well-spaced, responsive, and the LCD screen is bright enough to see across the kitchen. Everything about the design feels intentional, and that reflects Japanese craftsmanship.
Ease of Use
If you’ve ever used a basic rice cooker, switching to a MICOM model feels like going from a flip phone to a smartphone. But in a good way—the learning curve is minimal.
The most convenient feature for me is the clock and preset timer, especially for busy weekdays. I can load rice in the morning, set the timer, and come back home to perfectly cooked, warm rice without touching anything else.
The detachable inner lid is a blessing. I love how easy it is to snap off, rinse, and dry without worrying about trapped residue. The nonstick pot also cleans with minimal effort—I never had grains stick or burn even once.
Even with all the advanced functions, the cooking process is extremely straightforward. Choose your rice type, press start, and the cooker handles the rest.
- Adjust Temperature Automatically: It features Microcomputer (MICOM) that automatically adjusts...
Cooking Functions & Performance
This is where the NL-GAC10BM really justified its price for me.
Umami Setting
The Umami mode is the star of the show. It soaks and steams the rice longer, and the difference is noticeable. The grains come out fuller, softer, and more aromatic. When I used it for basmati and jasmine, the flavor turned out deeper and more naturally sweet.
Jasmine & Quick Jasmine
The dedicated jasmine rice option is a game-changer if you cook this variety often. It maintains the fragrant profile beautifully and prevents mushiness. Quick Jasmine is great too when I’m in a hurry.
Brown & GABA Brown
Brown rice is usually a hit-or-miss even on expensive cookers. Here, it’s consistently soft without losing texture. GABA brown takes longer, but the added nutritional boost is worth it when I have time.
Porridge & Congee
I make porridge often during winter mornings, and this cooker nails the creamy consistency I like. Congee also comes out silky without needing constant stirring.
Steaming & Slow Cook
The steaming basket is sturdy and BPA-free. I’ve steamed veggies, dumplings, and fish—always evenly cooked.
The slow cook function was a pleasant surprise. I’ve simmered soups and broths in it, and the results were rich and flavorful. It’s not a full replacement for a dedicated slow cooker, but it’s extremely handy when I want to minimize appliances.
Overall, every setting performs as promised. I didn’t encounter inconsistent or undercooked batches throughout my testing.
Durability
Since this is not cookware, I’ll keep it simple:
The unit feels solid. The nonstick coating has held up perfectly so far—no scratching or peeling. The hinge, lid mechanism, and buttons still feel new after repeated use. Based on user experiences with other Zojirushi models I’ve owned, these units last for years if cared for properly.
- Adjust Temperature Automatically: It features Microcomputer (MICOM) that automatically adjusts...
Pros:
- Exceptional cooking results, especially with Umami and Jasmine modes
- MICOM technology eliminates guesswork
- Compact and premium Japanese build quality
- Very easy to clean thanks to detachable lid & nonstick pan
- Versatile: rice, congee, porridge, steaming, slow cooking
- Reliable timer and keep-warm functions
- Quiet, consistent performance
- BPA-free accessories included
Cons:
- Pricier than basic rice cookers
- No induction heating (would have improved precision even more)
- Hand-washing the pot is required for longevity
- Cooking times can be longer due to MICOM & Umami modes
- Not ideal for large families (5.5-cup limit)
Conclusion & Recommendation
After weeks of using the Zojirushi NL-GAC10BM, I can confidently say it’s one of the most dependable and satisfying kitchen appliances I’ve used. It doesn’t just cook rice—it enhances it. Whether I’m making everyday jasmine rice or experimenting with brown rice and congee, it gives me perfect results without requiring attention.
This rice cooker is ideal for:
- Small to medium households
- Anyone who values consistent, flavorful rice
- People who enjoy variety—porridge, congee, steaming, slow cooking
- Those who want a durable, long-lasting appliance
If you’re upgrading from a basic rice cooker or looking for a premium model without jumping to induction-level prices, I absolutely recommend the NL-GAC10BM. It’s reliable, versatile, and designed to make cooking genuinely easier and more enjoyable.
