After assiduous testing by the Hammacher Schlemmer Institute of the most advanced electric rice cookers available, this one is rated best due to its precise cooking ability, ease of use, and features. Using advanced fuzzy logic technology, the unit automatically adjusts cooking time and temperature for the type of rice being cooked, resulting in cooked rice that is soft and uniform in texture, with the bottom layers as fluffy as the top, unlike other units that leave some grains undercooked or soggy. It is the easiest to use, due to an easy-to-read LCD and control panel that only requires you to select the type of rice (white rice/sushi, brown rice, sweet rice, mixed rice, or porridge), and the unit also cooks cheesecakes or sponge cakes (recipes included). The measuring cup and 5 1/2-cup cooking basin with water level marks provide an exact guide for combining the correct amount of liquid and uncooked rice for optimal results, and the cooking basin has a nonstick surface, ensuring ease of removal of cooked rice and cleaning, unlike lesser units with clay pots that cause rice to stick. With an automatic warming function that keeps cooked rice at the ideal serving temperature for up to 12 hours. 8 1/2" H x 14" W x 10" L. (7 lbs.)