Which Budget Rice Cooker Is Better?
Choosing between the Tefal Cooltouch RK1568 and the Russell Hobbs 27020 is one of the most common decisions for UK buyers looking for an affordable, family‑friendly rice cooker. Both are simple, reliable, and well‑priced — but they’re not identical.
This comparison breaks down the differences so you can decide which one suits your kitchen best.
⭐ Quick Verdict
Both cookers offer great value, but they suit different types of users:
- Tefal RK1568 → Better build quality, slightly more consistent results, and a more premium feel.
- Russell Hobbs 27020 → Cheaper, includes a steaming basket, and ideal for families on a tight budget.
If you want the best rice quality, choose Tefal. If you want the best price and versatility, choose Russell Hobbs.
🔍 Side‑by‑Side Comparison
| Feature | Tefal RK1568 | Russell Hobbs 27020 |
|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 1.8 L | 1.8 L |
| Power | 700W | 700W |
| Cooking Modes | Cook / Warm | Cook / Warm |
| Bowl | Non‑stick | Non‑stick |
| Accessories | Cup, spoon | Cup, spoon, steaming basket |
| Build Quality | Slightly better | Good |
| Rice Quality | More consistent | Good but less refined |
| Price | Mid‑budget | Cheapest option |
| Best For | Families wanting reliability | Families wanting value |
🏆 Rice Quality
Tefal RK1568
Produces slightly fluffier, more evenly cooked rice thanks to better heat distribution. Less chance of sticking or overcooking.
Russell Hobbs 27020
Still good, but the texture can be a little softer or wetter depending on water ratios. Perfectly fine for everyday meals.
Winner: Tefal RK1568
🧱 Build Quality
Tefal RK1568
Feels sturdier, with a better‑fitting lid and a more premium finish.
Russell Hobbs 27020
Lightweight and functional, but not as solid.
Winner: Tefal RK1568
🍲 Features & Accessories
Tefal RK1568
Simple and straightforward — no extras.
Russell Hobbs 27020
Includes a steaming basket, which adds real versatility for vegetables, dumplings, and fish.
Winner: Russell Hobbs 27020
💷 Price & Value
Tefal RK1568
Costs slightly more but offers better consistency and durability.
Russell Hobbs 27020
One of the cheapest 1.8 L cookers in the UK — unbeatable for the price.
Winner: Russell Hobbs 27020
👨👩👧 Who Should Buy Which?
Choose the Tefal RK1568 if you want:
- More consistent rice
- A sturdier, longer‑lasting cooker
- A simple, reliable machine for daily use
Choose the Russell Hobbs 27020 if you want:
- The lowest price
- A steaming basket included
- A good all‑round cooker for family meals
⭐ Final Verdict
Both cookers are excellent budget choices, but they shine in different ways:
- Tefal RK1568 → Best rice quality and build
- Russell Hobbs 27020 → Best value and versatility
You can’t go wrong with either — it just depends on what matters most to you.
🛒 Buy on Amazon
Tefal RK1568
- TWO SETTING FUNCTION: Choose from Automatic cooking to cook your rice to your standards, before serving, when ready, for rice that keeps warm after cooking thanks to the keep warm function.
- SAFE HANDLING: CoolTouch has a coolwall body that keeps cool during operation. Equipped with nonslip feet for secure placement and a convenient plastic handle allowing you to move or serve from the rice cooker without injury or harm.
- EASY-TO-CLEAN: Non-stick removable bowl that is dishwasher safe for easy cleaning and convenience.
- BIG CAPACITY: Comes with 1.8 L food capacity that can serve between 10-20 portions.
- INCLUDED: 1 Measuring cup, 1 Serving spoon and a Steam basket.
Russell Hobbs 27020
- Produces up to 3 servings of cooked rice (up to 200 grams per serving)
- Removable non-stick bowl. Tempered glass lid and dishwasher safe bowl
- Measuring cup and spoon included Integrated lid holder
- Indicator light Steam output. 200 Watts
- Russell Hobbs Small Rice Cooker, 3 portions of Rice (0.4 L), 600 grams at a time, Automatic Warming Function, Stainless Steel/White, Non-Stick Coating, Steam Exhaust, Dishwasher Safe, 200 Watt, 22.2 x 16.8 x 17.2 cm
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Related Reviews
- Tefal RK1568 Review
- Russell Hobbs 27020 Review
- Toshiba TRCS01 Review
- Yum Asia Panda Review
Helpful Guides
- Best Rice Cookers UK 2026
- How to Choose a Rice Cooker
- Rice Cooker Sizes Explained
- Fuzzy Logic vs Standard Rice Cookers
Last update on 2026-10-03 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API