Rice Cookers: Top 9 to Consider | Affordable, Budget & Premium Options

If you’re looking for a high-quality rice cooker, you’ve come to the right place. Keep reading for all the details about our top picks, or have a sneak peek here:

1. Aroma Housewares Rice Cooker
2. Panasonic Rice Cooker
3. Tiger Rice Cooker
4. Instant Pot Pressure Cooker
5. Zojirushi Rice Maker
6. Dash Mini Rice Cooker
7. Hamilton Beach Programmable Rice Cooker
8. Cuisinart 4-Cup Rice Cooker
9. Cuckoo Premium Rice Cooker

If you’re on the search for the perfect rice, look no further than this list of the best rice cookers!

Top 9 Rice Cookers for Different Cooking Needs

Make every weekend special with grilled and barbecue dishes. They are more special when partnered with a cup of hot steamed rice. If you don’t have a rice cooker yet, let us help you pick the one that suits your cooking or eating needs and preferences through the best rice cookers

Variety of Features, Sizes and Prices

Our best items in the list vary in features, prices and sizes. We have this variation for the kitchen gadgets to help you decide easier which one is the best. Whether you are living solo, just got married or belong to a big family, there is definitely one from the Top 5 Rice Cookers that’s best for you.

10-Cup, 20-Cup Rice Cookers and More

We have the small, compact and lightweight cooker for individuals who are always on the go and living solo. There is also a bigger rice cooker in our list designed for festive meals and generous servings of rice. Read on and pick your choice!

#1: Aroma Housewares Digital Rice Cooker

The Aroma Housewares Digital Rice Cooker is best for you especially if you are having a hard time managing your time between your household chores and work. Since the product is automatic, all you have to do is set it in your cooking desire and leave it to attend to you other mommy duties.

Best Quality Rice Cooker

Cooking rice, steaming veggies and slow-cooking meat are now effortless with this high-quality rice cooker. Not only can you efficiently divide your time between work and household tasks but she gets time for herself too.

Time-Saving Kitchen Appliance

Because the rice cooks faster than the regular stove-top cooker, you can cook other dishes using the same cookware. It is easy to clean this highly technological rice cooker so you can easily cook another dish once the rice is cooked.

Steam Veggies + Cook Rice with this Affordable Rice Cooker

This cookware piece is multi-functional so any homemaker can steam fish and veggies, on top of the 20 cups of you she can cook with it. It’s an impressive food steamer and rice cooker in one.

Learn More about one of the Best Budget Rice Cookers

Do you want to find out more about this popular rice cooker? You can check out our review right here: Aroma Housewares Digital Rice Cooker Review.

Or, you can easily buy the Aroma Housewares Digital Rice Cooker on Amazon. Click the button now to check for the best prices and also to see if this product is eligible for fast, free shipping:

Compare the Best Rice Cookers

There are a ton of different options for rice cookers available today. They come in a huge range of sizes and also have a number of different features to choose from. Of course, you can find them in all kinds of different price points too and we have some picks for a budget rice cooker if that’s what you’re looking for.

Check out this handy comparison chart for some of the top rice cookers:

#2: Panasonic Automatic Rice Cooker

The Panasonic Automatic Rice Cooker is one of the most affordable rice cookers available today. It is compact and so ideal for couples and solo-living individuals. Since it cooks about two to three (uncooked) rice maximum, this rice cooker doesn’t leave any room for spoilage.

Cook Sticky Rice for Sushi Too

You can cook rice just enough for you or a companion to finish. Not only does a regular rice eater will enjoy this. Even the Japanese food lovers will be happy with this kitchen gadget because of its ability to cook sticky rice for sushi.

Automatic Shut Off

Featuring a one-touch function, our 2^nd in the Top 5 Rice Cookers automatically cooks rice. It shuts off by itself when the rice is fully cooked. You need no expertise to perfect this carb dish. All it takes is one press at the button and you’re good to go.

There’s no need to worry about the accurate measurement of the water either. This automatic rice cooker comes with a measuring cup for perfect cooking. The cooking pot has a nice, non-stick coating on it to make clean up a breeze.

The Best Budget Rice Cooker

If you’re on a tight budget and are looking for the best affordable rice cooker, this one may be it. It’s very reasonably priced, but still has some excellent customer reviews and ratings.

Can Cook all Kinds of Rice

One can cook rice just enough for him or a companion to finish. Not only does a regular rice eater will enjoy this. Even the Japanese food lovers will be happy with this kitchen gadget because of its ability to cook sticky rice for sushi. Or, brown rice for the health conscious.

Easy to Use

Featuring a one-touch function, this highly-rated cooker automatically cooks rice. It shuts off by itself when the rice is fully cooked. One needs no expertise to perfect this carb dish.

No Need to Measure

All it takes is one press at the button and he is good to go. There’s no need to worry about the accurate measurement of water either. This automatic rice cooker comes with a measuring cup for perfect cooking.

You’ll Love It

You don’t have to worry anymore where to put leftovers since not even a single grain is definitely not going to be left uneaten. What’s good about this kitchen bestseller is that, it costs reasonably. You need not shell out a lot with this high-quality rice cooker. In fact, you might not even feel any movement in your savings when you spend for it.

Small and Compact

So what if you can’t cook brown rice with this one? Here’s the best part! You don’t have to consume a lot of space for this rice cooker as it is compact. Not only that. It is lightweight too so you can easily carry it around the kitchen for your convenience.

This is the best time for you to own a rice cooker just for one or two.

Key Features of this Top Quality Rice Cooker

• Cooks up to 3 cups of (uncooked) rice
• Clear glass for easy viewing
• Comes with a measuring cup and rice scoop
• Can also cook sticky rice for sushi
• One-touch button for automatic rice-cooking
• Affordable price makes it ideal for people on a budget

People that Like the Panasonic Automatic Rice Cooker are Saying:

—>See More Customer Reviews and Ratings Here<—

“This is a really great, basic rice cooker. It doesn’t have the bells and whistles of the more expensive rice cookers, but it works well for cooking rice. It’s compact, and reasonably priced.”

“This is a great small, basic rice cooker. Our old rice cooker had a 3 cup minimum which was overkill for a family of 3, especially when we started eating fewer carbs.”

“This rice cooker is the perfect size for a single or couple. You will not have to throw away extra rice.”

“It works well for about 2 cups uncooked rice. We especially like the non-stick pan.”

Learn More about the Best Affordable Rice Cooker

You can easily get the Panasonic Automatic Rice Cooker from Amazon. Click the button below to find out more about it and also to check and see if this product is eligible for fast, free shipping with a Prime membership:

Panasonic Rice Cooker Review

Do you want to find out more about one of the most popular rice cookers? Then check out this best affordable rice cooker for all the details you need to know to see if it’s the right option for you.

#3: Tiger Corporation Rice Cooker

The Tiger Corporation Rice Cooker is designed if you are always on the go. It is a perfect must-have for you who have to rush for work but need to eat carbs to last a busy day. This is not the typical rice cooker as rice is not the only dish it cooks.

Multi-Purpose Kitchen Appliance

By simply choosing the ‘tacook’ or synchro-cooking function, you can already cook rice and a main dish simultaneously. Other options in the cooking settings include the slow-cooking, plain rice and brown rice cooking.

Cooks a Variety of Foods at the Same Time

Just put your meat or veggies in the included steam tray and let the machine do all the hard work for you. This automatic rice cooker is one of the most versatile kitchen appliances and you’ll definitely appreciate having this in your pantry. Or, just keep it on your countertop all the time…it really is that good!

Perfect for Busy People

This is not the typical rice cooker it also cooks dishes simultaneously with its synchronization feature. This means that, even a person is in a hurry, he can still eat a complete meal in order to attend to all his must-do’s for the day energetically.

Keep Rice Warm All Day

If you have a very busy family that eats meals at different times then this rice maker will make a nice choice for you. You can keep rice warm all day very easily.

Key Features:

• Easy one-touch operation
• Comes with nonstick spatula
• With free cookbook for other dishes too cook
• Comes with a measuring cup for accurate and perfect cook
• Functions as a steamer and slow cooker too
• Automatically switches to ‘keep warm’ mode when cooked

People that Liked the Tiger Corporation Rice Cooker are Saying:

—>Read More Customer Reviews on Amazon.com<----

“I’m in love with this thing. I use it about 3 to 5 times a week. I cook meals using the tray. It works well and it’s higher in quality than many of the cheaper rice cookers that I’ve tried out. Perfect rice every single time, and it keeps it warm for hours if necessary like from lunch to dinner for example. I don’t know how I’d live without this thing!”

“I like the look of this one. It fits perfectly on the counter and the rice cooked perfectly, including brown rice or things like barley or quinoa. It does a great job and is super easy to use as well as clean-up afterwards. Be sure to stir-fry up your leftover rice in a carbon steel wok the next day for some delicious fried rice”

“This is the BEST rice cooker ever!! I’ve cooked a couple of meals in it using rice and chicken and by using the synchronized cooking option I get delicious meals in an hour!”

Drawbacks of the Tiger Corporation Rice Cooker:

• Some issues with the spewing water all over the place
• Not recommended for big families as it cooks up to 5-1/2 cups rice only
• A few complaints about difficult to follow instructions
• Too much water even when using measuring cup according to some

Fail-Proof Rice Cooking

Whether you’re a mom with kids who’s always in a hurry to prepare meals for the kids to bring to school, or living solo who has no time to cook all the time, this kitchen product is for you. Since it comes with a nonstick spatula and measuring cup, there’s no way for you to fail in cooking rice and a main dish.

A Kitchen Necessity

If you belong to a family of rice eaters, you should consider the Tiger Corporation Rice Cooker a necessity in the kitchen. Not all rice cookers can produce perfect rice. It is very rare too, that you get the chance to own a rice cooker that allows you to cook rice and make sumptuous dishes at the same time. Isn’t it perfect for your oh-so-busy lifestyle?

Perfectly Cooked Rice

What’s good about this innovative cooker is that, you need not be an expert in cooking to serve perfectly cooked rice. This is computerized and all you have to do is press the button!

Shop Now for this Quality Rice Cooker

The Tiger Corporation Rice Cooker is available on Amazon. Click the button below to check for the lowest prices and also to see if you can get fast, free shipping on this product with a Prime membership:

# 4: Instant Pot Multi-Functional Pressure Cooker

The Instant Pot Multi-Functional Pressure Cooker is you especially if you love to cook different dishes for all occasions.

As a cooking enthusiast, you will surely love this kitchen gadget especially that it is multi-functional. Meaning, it cooks many different dishes beyond just rice and steaming vegetables.

Prepare a Complete Meal with the Instant Pot

A lot of homemakers opt for this multi-cooker because it is a perfect companion when preparing a complete meal from appetizer to soup to dessert. Whether it’s for special occasion or not, this pressure cooker is certainly a perfect must-have in every household.

Amazon proudly announces that our 4^th in the Top 5 Rice Cookers is actually currently its No.1 Bestseller in the electric pressure cookers category.

A Huge Variety of Uses

Indeed, this multi-cooker can do many things in the kitchen. It can serve as an excellent slow cooker, pressure cooker and rice cooker, however one wants to use it. This versatile cooker may be a bit large in size, but it is undoubtedly easy to use with its one-touch control panel. It’s certainly one of the most useful kitchen appliances that you’ll ever own!

The Best Automatic Rice Cooker?

How does the cooked rice turn out? Perfect, for both white rice and brown rice. If you want to cut down on the cooking time of dishes including rice, consider the Instant Pot.

We LOVE the cooking pot on this thing. It’s smooth and the clean up is very easy to do with just about any dish that you might cook.

Where Can I Find It?

You can easily purchase the Instant Pot Multi-Functional Pressure Cooker on Amazon. Click below to get the best prices:

Is the Instant Pot Worth It?

Okay, so the InstantPot is a little bit expensive, but is it worth it? Check out this short video to find out all the details you need to know about it:

#5: Zojirushi Rice Cooker and Warmer

The Zojirushi Rice Cooker and Warmer is our most expensive product in the Top 5 Rice Cookers. However, since it is one of the most popular brands in kitchen gadgets, we’re including it in our list.

Learn More about this High Quality Rice Cooker

This is a kitchen gadget for you if you are a modern cook. It has a digital feature that makes cooking rice easier and more effortless. Today’s homemakers are busy with so many things including their homework from the office, the household chores, and attending to the kids’ school projects and assignments.

The delay timer means that you can set it and forget it in the morning. Then, when you get home for dinner, you can have some perfect rice waiting for you. It also keeps rice warm for hours.

One of the most Expensive Rice Cookers…Maybe Worth It?

In terms of price, the Zojirushi rice cooker is one of the most expensive options out there. Is it worth it? It just might be if you plan on using it almost every day and want a ton of features, including keeping rice warm all day. Plus, this huge rice cooker can make a ton of rice if you have a big family who eats it for three meals a day.

Digital Rice Cooker Makes the Perfect Cooked Rice

Since this electric cooker is digital, everything is done in just one touch of a button. There’s no room for overcooked rice with this kitchen gadget because it automatically switches to ‘keep warm’ mode once the rice is completely cooked. The induction heating method is something that will make perfect rice, every single time.

There are different menu options to cook rice and all you have to do is pick an option and press it. No need to lift the cover to check how long it still takes for the cooking to complete. The LCD displaying the timer already indicates the cooking status.

Capable of Cooking a Variety of Grains

The best part? It can cook many types of rice with easy: brown rice, white rice, sushi rice, quinoa, porridge, oatmeal, and other grains. If you want something that’s going to make perfectly cooked foods or all kinds? This one from Zojirushi might be it.

Easy to Use

Since this electric cooker is digital, everything is done in just one touch of a button. There’s no room for overcooked rice with this kitchen gadget because it automatically switches to ‘keep warm’ mode once the rice is completely cooked.

Lots of Menu Options

The Zojirushi Rice Cooker is highly rated on Amazon today.There are different menu options to cook rice and all one has to do is pick an option and press it. No need to lift the cover to check how long it still takes for the cooking to complete. The LCD displaying the timer already indicates the cooking status.

Key Features:

• 9.5 pounds
• Computerized/digital cooker
• Multiple menu selection
• Comes with 2 measuring cups
• Nonstick rice scooper
• Automatically switches to ‘keep-warm’  status when cooked
• 1-year warranty (limited)

People that Like the Zojirushi Rice Cooker and Warmer are Saying:

—>Read More Customer Reviews on Amazon.com<—

“This rice cooker makes the best rice we have ever had. And, despite the fact that this machine ‘seems’ smarter than its user, it is remarkably simple to operate. Sure, it’s a bit expensive, but it seems like it’s built to last a lifetime and our family couldn’t live without this thing anymore.”

“This is an excellent rice cooker. So far, I’ve used it for white and brown rice with and without the automatic timer and it works great. Delicious, fluffy rice—can’t ask for much more than that, right?”

“We love the rice from it (we have tried white, mixed, and brown rice). Maybe the best thing though is having leftovers so can make some garlic fried rice the next day! What’s more this makes DELICIOUS oatmeal!”

Drawbacks of the Zojirushi Rice Cooker and Warmer:

• 1-year warranty is limited
• Use the exact cup to achieve perfectly cooked rice
• A bit expensive for some
• Some issues on durability

Keep Warm Feature

The Zojirushi Rice Cooker and Warmer will always give you perfectly cooked rice regardless of the amount you’re cooking. The computerized feature gives you the appropriate cooking time, not to mention automatically switching to the ‘keep warm’ mood to ensure the rice is hot until you’re ready to serve it. This is ideal for busy families who find themselves eating at different times throughout the day.

Nonstick Pot

You won’t experience any mess either as this rice cooker comes with a nonstick scooper or spoon for a more convenient scooping.

Can Make Various Kinds of Grains

Of you love to eat rice of different kinds, this cooking companion is for you. Indeed, this electric cooker cooks beyond just the ordinary steamed rice. You can also make sushi (check out: sushi starter kits), oatmeal and porridge with this high-quality rice cooker.

Hot Meals are So Easy

And since this functions as a warmer too, your loved ones are sure to eat fresh and hot meals all the time. Here’s the great news. You can leave your rice cooking and do other things at home. The beep audio feature will alert you that your rice is ready, anyway.

Where to Buy one of the Best Automatic Rice Cookers?

The Zojirushi Rice Cooker and Warmer is easily available on Amazon. Check below to find out more about it, and also to check whether or not this product is eligible for fast, free shipping with a Prime membership:

#6: Dash Mini Rice Cooker

If you live alone or with one other person, then you’ll seriously want to consider this mini rice cooker from Dash. It’s one of the smallest options and cooks up the perfect amount of amazing rice in just 20 minutes. Read on to find out why we like it so much.

Key Features

• Comes in a variety of colors
• 2 cup capacity
• Ideal for things like oatmeal, quinoa, etc.
• Easy to use—just press 1 button
• Keep warm function
• Super compact
• Includes a rice paddle
• 1 year warranty

User Reviews 

“Easy to use and super fast delivery. It’s perfect for rice for 2-3 people and cooks up nice and fluffy every single time. I’ve never going back to those big, expensive rice cookers again! This thing is just so much better.”

“Love the fact that you just throw in some rice and water and then push the button. Out comes perfect rice at the other end!”

Shop Now for this Small Rice Cooker

If you’re looking for a small rice cooker that’s perfect for just one or two people, then this mini one from Dash certainly makes a nice choice. You can easily find it on Amazon so check below for the best prices here:

#7: Hamilton Beach, the Best Affordable Rice Cooker

Hamilton Beach is one of the most trusted names in small kitchen appliances and this one is certainly no exception to that. It’s a top-quality product at a very affordable price and durable enough to last you for years.

Important Features

• 8 cups (cooked) capacity
• Includes steam and rinse basket
• Pre-programmed settings
• Can make a number of other foods besides just rice
• Dishwasher safe pot
• Countdown timer

Customer Reviews

“Really nice, budget rice cooker that can also steam veggies or anything else for that matter. It’s a great product at a fair price and I honestly just can’t recommend this thing enough.”

“Super impressed with the quality of cooking in this thing. It turns out perfectly cooked rice each and every single time without exception. Same with all kinds of steamed veggies.”

Where Can I Buy It?

If you want to pick up this affordable rice cooker for your home, then you’ll want to head over to Amazon to find out all the details you need to know:

#8: Cuisinart 4-Cup Rice Cooker

This is one of the best small rice cookers available today. Like all the other products from this company, this item has the same high quality and is backed by top-notch customer service. Keep reading to find out the features and benefits and why you might consider investing in one.

Key Features

• Makes 4-cups (also an 8-cup option)
• Can also steam meat and veggies
• Sleek brushed stainless steel
• Switches to warming option when done cooking
• Warm/cook indicator lights
• Includes measuring cup and rice spoon

What do People Think About It?

“Some reviews mentioned that it’s kind of messy, but follow the directions that come along with this small rice cooker and you should absolutely have no problems at all with it.”

“Makes delicious and fluffy rice every single time, as well as all kinds of other grains too. Highly recommended and sure beats cooking rice on the stovetop.”

Buy it Today

If you’re looking for a small rice cooker, this one from Cuisinart should do the trick. Click the button below to head over to Amazon to check for the lowest prices here:

#9: Cuckoo Premium Rice Cooker

Features

• 8-in-1 (pressure cooker, slow cooker, yogurt, rice, etc.)
• Smart algorithms adjust for different types of cooking
• Steam is released automatically for extra safety
• Keep-warm feature
• Pot is made from high-quality stainless steel and aluminum for easy cleaning

Customer Reviews

“I normally never leave reviews online but the Cuckoo premium rice cooker is just too good! Sure, it’s a bit expensive but you get what you pay for. This thing is awesome and is a beast in the kitchen. It does a ton of things in a single appliance and is the perfect tool for our small space.”

“Really good at making rice which is what we mainly use it for. It’s fluffy, delicious and stays warm for hours in this thing which is ideal for my family as we all tend to eat at different times.” 

Shop Now

Do you want to pick up this premium rice cooker for your home? It’s a top-quality product from a top brand. Head over to Amazon to find out more about it:

What to Look for in a Rice Cooker?

If you’re looking to buy a new rice cooker, then you’ll want to consider a number of features.

Capacity

Consider how many people you’re cooking rice for: a single person, or an entire family. You can get very small, 2-3 cup rice cookers, or ones that cook 20 cups or even more. Most people find that a 10-cup rice cooker is a nice balance between these two.

It doesn’t take up too much space in the cupboard, but it’s big enough if you have a dinner party or something like that.

More than Just Rice?

There are some simple ones that make perfectly cooked rice. And that’s about it.

At the other end, there’s the Instant Pot that makes a million and one things. It’s really up to you, and how much money you want to spend on something like this.

In the middle, there are rice cookers that make a variety of grains such as brown rice, quinoa, oatmeal, etc.

Steaming Feature?

Some cookers include a steaming basket and allow you to cook meat or veggies along with the rice. It can be a healthy way to make a complete meal for your family in a short amount of time.

Easy to Use Controls

Some rice cookers feature a digital menu that can do a ton of things. Others just a button that you push down to cook which pops up when it’s done.

Either way is fine, but it should be easy to use.

Programmable Settings

You may want to have a delayed feature that allows you to set the cooking time to start later.

Keep-Warm Settings with the Best Quality Rice Cookers

If you’re the type of family who is very busy and eats at different times, you may want to buy a rice cooker with a keep warm setting. This keeps your rice at the ideal temperature for hours.

Removable or Retractable Power Cord

This can make storage very easy.

Detachable Inner Lid

This often gets quite dirty because the water bubbles up when cooking, along with steam. Make sure that you can remove this for easier cleaning.

Nonstick Cooking Pot

Check the reviews for the rice cooker you’re considering buying to see if the cooking pot has a surface that’s easy to clean. Rice can get sticky!

Rice Cooker FAQs

There are a number of common questions that people have about using rice cookers. Here are the answers to some of the most popular ones.

Is a rice cooker worth buying?

If you eat rice, then it’s certainly worth buying a rice cooker. However, they’re also surprisingly versatile, especially the premium, expensive ones and they can also do things like pressure cooking, slow cooking and making homemade yogurt.

Why are rice cookers dangerous?

Rice cookers can be dangerous if the Teflon pot gets scratched. This releases toxins into food that can be harmful to the health. Only use plastic or wood implements to take rice out of the pot in order to prevent this.

Can you cook 1 cup of rice in a rice cooker?

It’s certainly possible to cook only 1 cup of rice in a rice cooker. Just be sure to adjust the amount of water accordingly for this small amount.

Why are Japanese rice cookers so expensive?

Japanese rice cookers are so expensive because they do a whole lot more than simply cooking rice until it’s done. They cook various kinds of rice, function as slow cookers, steamers, yogurt makers, etc. Plus, they keep rice warm and fresh all day long.

Does rice taste better in a rice cooker?

If you cook rice on the stove well, then you probably won’t notice a difference between that and a rice cooker. However, many people struggle to make a nice pot of rice in which case a rice cooker will be a much better option.

Have your Say about the Best Automatic Rice Cooker

What’s your pick for the best rice cooker for the money? Is it one of these from our list of our top 5 best rice cookers, or are you considering another brand? Leave a comment below and let us know what you think. We’d love to hear from you.

Also be sure to give this article a share on Facebook, Pinterest, or Twitter. It’ll help other home cooking enthusiasts, like yourself find this useful resource.

Last update on 2021-04-09 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API