BLACK+DECKER RC506 vs Aroma Housewares ARC-914SBD
Head-to-head: BLACK+DECKER RC506 ($39, Budget) vs Aroma Housewares ARC-914SBD ($40, Budget). We compare features, rice quality, pros & cons to help you decide.
Feature Comparison
| Feature | BLACK+DECKER RC506 | Aroma Housewares ARC-914SBD |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $38.99 | $39.99 |
| Rating | ⭐ 4.3 | ⭐ 4.2 |
| Brand | BLACK+DECKER | Aroma Housewares |
| Badge | Best Ultra-Budget | Budget Champion |
Pros & Cons
BLACK+DECKER RC506
✅ Pros
- + Dead-simple one-button operation — literally foolproof
- + Automatic keep-warm when cooking finishes
- + Includes steaming basket for vegetables and fish
- + Non-stick removable bowl is dishwasher safe
- + Compact footprint fits tiny kitchens perfectly
❌ Cons
- − No fuzzy logic or intelligent cooking whatsoever
- − Water ratio needs trial-and-error (manual is inaccurate)
- − Short power cord requires nearby outlet
- − Starchy residue can seep from steam vent
- − Non-stick coating is thin — use plastic/silicone utensils only
Aroma Housewares ARC-914SBD
✅ Pros
- + Best-in-class digital features for under $40
- + Brushed stainless steel looks premium on any counter
- + Best-in-class value (Digital features for low price)
- + Compact footprint fits in any cabinet expert
- + Delay timer is a game-changer for busy schedules
❌ Cons
- − No retractable cord (standard power cord)
- − Inner pot is lighter/thinner than Zojirushi
- − Condensation catcher is small and needs frequent emptying
- − Starchy water can sputter from vent if overfilled
Grainy's Verdict
We recommend the **BLACK+DECKER RC506** for most buyers. The BLACK+DECKER RC506 is the Honda Civic of rice cookers: boring, reliable, and gets the job done. It won't wow you with perfect sushi rice or AI temperature curves, but it'll consistently put edible rice on your table for $39. For first apartments and college students, this is all you need.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the BLACK+DECKER RC506 better than the Aroma Housewares ARC-914SBD? ▼
The BLACK+DECKER RC506 has a higher rating (4.3 vs 4.2) and is our pick for Best Ultra-Budget. However, the Aroma Housewares ARC-914SBD offers different features and may suit specific needs better.
Which is cheaper, BLACK+DECKER RC506 or Aroma Housewares ARC-914SBD? ▼
The BLACK+DECKER RC506 is cheaper at $38.99 compared to the Aroma Housewares ARC-914SBD at $39.99 — a difference of $1.00.
Should I buy the BLACK+DECKER or Aroma Housewares rice cooker? ▼
It depends on your priorities. Choose the BLACK+DECKER RC506 if you value dead-simple one-button operation — literally foolproof. Go with the Aroma Housewares ARC-914SBD if best-in-class digital features for under $40 matter more to you.
Read the full reviews: BLACK+DECKER RC506 Review • Aroma Housewares ARC-914SBD Review