I be not a rice cooker expert . just a guy that be look for a quality rice cooker . one that would make my life easier and one that would not force I to re-enroll in ITT to learn how to use it . this unit come highly acclaimed on various site , have the logic circuitry that I want and do not require a mortgage . this cooker be so user friendly and make fabulous food and fabulous rice every stinkin ' time without a babysitter . the clock and circuitry on the front panel remain on and visible even when the unit be not plug in due to a internal battery . this be rippin ' cool cuz I do not want to be force to leave it plug in due to limited counter space but also I do not want to reset the stupid thing every time I do replug it in ! cool stuff . great cooker in every way . it have a cool push-button lid that when press it allow the hinged top to open at just the right rate due to power controlled hinge prevent the unit from just fling open . just quality and thoughtful all around . would buy it again in a heartbeat !