The 8 Best Rice Cookers of 2025: Tested & Reviewed

Rice cookers make life easier in the kitchen. Whether cooking fluffy jasmine rice, hearty brown rice, or sushi rice, a good rice cooker can save time. It can also help you get perfect results.

After testing dozens of models, we’ve curated a list of the best rice cookers. These recommendations are based on performance, ease of use, features, and value for money.

How We Tested the Rice Cookers

To ensure accurate and reliable results, we evaluated each rice cooker based on:

• Performance: How well it cooked different types of rice (white, brown, sushi, basmati).
• Ease of Use: User interface, setup, and cleaning.
• Features: Advanced settings like quick-cook, keep-warm, and steaming.
• Build Quality: Durability and safety of materials (e.g., nonstick vs. ceramic pots).
• Value for Money: How well each cooker performed relative to its price.

Each model was tested with real-world use cases, including cooking rice for family dinners, meal prep, and side dishes.

➡How We Pick Products and Services

Top 3 Rice Cookers featured:

Best Overall
Zojirushi Neuro Fuzzy Rice Cooker

Editor’s Choice
COSORI Rice Cooker 10 Cup

Best for Brown Rice
NutriBullet EveryGrain Cooker

Best Overall: Zojirushi Neuro Fuzzy Rice Cooker

• 5.5-cup capacity
• Advanced fuzzy logic technology
• Multi-menu cooking functions

The Zojirushi Neuro Fuzzy NS-ZCC10 is our list’s best overall rice cooker. Its advanced fuzzy logic technology consistently produces perfect rice across all grain types. I’ve found that it excels particularly with brown rice, which can be tricky to cook properly.

The multi-menu cooking functions allow you to easily prepare various rice types, from sushi rice to porridge. With a 5.5-cup capacity, it’s ideal for small to medium-sized families. The user-friendly interface makes it simple to operate, even for those new to advanced rice cookers.

In my tests, I noticed that while cooking times are slightly longer than other models, the results are worth waiting for. The keep-warm function maintains rice at the perfect serving temperature for hours without overcooking. The durable construction ensures this cooker will last for years, making it a worthwhile investment for rice enthusiasts.

However, the premium features come with a higher price point, which may not suit all budgets. Despite this, the Zojirushi Neuro Fuzzy NS-ZCC10 is unbeatable for those who prioritize rice quality and consistency.

Editor’s Choice: COSORI Rice Cooker 10 Cup

The COSORI Rice Cooker 10 Cup is a multifunctional kitchen appliance designed for families and home cooks who value convenience and versatility. It boasts 18 cooking functions, including presets for white and brown rice, grains, oats, steamed vegetables, slow-cooked meals, and sautéing. 

Advanced fuzzy logic technology automatically adjusts cooking times and temperatures for optimal results, ensuring every time fluffy, evenly cooked rice.

The 24-hour keep warm and delay timer features make it easy to have rice ready when needed, fitting well into busy schedules. With a 1000W power rating, it cooks efficiently. However, rice programs can be lengthy; brown rice, for example, may take up to 75 minutes. 

The 10-cup uncooked (5-quart) capacity is ideal for large families or batch cooking. The non-stick inner pot and removable lid are dishwasher safe, simplifying cleanup. The LED touch control panel is intuitive, but the appliance is bulky, and the exterior can attract fingerprints. 

Some users also note that the cooker can be louder than others during operation. Despite these minor drawbacks, the COSORI Rice Cooker stands out for its versatility, consistent results, and user-friendly features.

Best for Versatility: Yum Asia Panda Mini Advanced Fuzzy Logic

The Yum Asia Panda Mini Advanced Fuzzy Logic rice cooker is compact yet highly versatile. With a 3.5-cup capacity, it’s suitable for singles, couples, or small families. Fuzzy logic technology changes cooking times and temperatures. This ensures fluffy rice every time, whether long grain, short grain, or brown rice. 

This model stands out for its additional functions, including slow cooking, steaming, porridge, and cake baking. The digital control panel is intuitive, featuring clearly labeled buttons and a countdown timer for precise monitoring. 

The included accessories- rice spatula, soup ladle, measuring cup, and steam basket- add further value. The outer body remains cool during operation, enhancing safety. 

Cleaning is straightforward, thanks to the nonstick inner pot and removable steam vent. While the quick-cook setting can take longer than expected.

Overall performance and versatility make this rice cooker an excellent choice for those seeking more than just basic rice preparation.

Best for Brown Rice: NutriBullet EveryGrain Cooker

The NutriBullet EveryGrain Cooker excels at preparing brown rice and other whole grains, making it a top pick for health-focused cooks. 

Its 10-cup cooked rice capacity suits families or meal preppers who value variety in their grains. The cooker offers dedicated settings for brown, white, quinoa, oats, and more, ensuring optimal texture with each type. 

The stainless steel steaming tray adds versatility for cooking vegetables or fish alongside your grains. The delay start function allows you to set cooking times in advance, and the keep-warm feature maintains rice at a serving temperature for hours. 

The nonstick inner pot resists sticking and is easy to clean, although it is recommended to wash it by hand. While the manual settings may require some experimentation for perfect results, the NutriBullet delivers reliable performance and value, especially for those prioritizing whole grains.

Best Eco-Friendly: GreenPan Carb Reducing Electric Rice Cooker

The GreenPan Carb Reducing Electric Rice Cooker is made for health-conscious people. It lets you enjoy rice with fewer carbs. Its main feature is the carb-reducing tray. This tray can lower the carb content of rice by up to 37%. It does this by separating excess starch while cooking. 

The cooker has 10 one-touch presets. These include white rice, brown rice, multigrain, wild rice, low-carb white rice, low-carb brown rice, barley, quinoa, beans, and steel-cut oats. 

Fuzzy logic technology adapts cooking time and temperature for perfect results across all grains. The Thermolon Volt ceramic nonstick bowl is PFAS-, PFOA-, lead-, and cadmium-free, ensuring a safe and easy-to-clean surface. 

With an 8-cup cooked rice capacity, it suits small to medium households. The delay timer and keep warm function add convenience, while all removable parts are dishwasher safe. The streamlined controls make it accessible for both beginners and experienced cooks. 

Some users may find the 450W power a bit low for larger batches, and the carb-reducing tray limits maximum rice volume in that mode. Overall, this model delivers healthier rice without sacrificing taste or texture.

Best Budget Rice Cooker: Hamilton Beach Digital Programmable Rice Cooker

• Capacity: 7 Cups
• Material: Stainless Steel
• Wattage: 500 watts
• Voltage: 120 Volts

The Hamilton Beach Digital Programmable Rice Cooker is a great value. It is a perfect choice for those on a budget. With a 7-cup uncooked capacity, this model is versatile enough for families and small gatherings. It features multiple settings, including white rice, whole grains, steaming, and a quick-cook option for busy nights.

The digital interface is simple to navigate, and the delay start function allows you to prep meals beforehand. Its steaming basket lets you cook vegetables or proteins simultaneously, saving time and reducing cleanup. The nonstick inner pot ensures easy cleaning, while the compact design makes it suitable for kitchens with limited space.

This rice cooker delivers consistent results without breaking the bank. While it lacks advanced features like induction heating or fuzzy logic, it performs well for basic rice cooking needs.

I like this model because it is simple and reliable. It is excellent for beginners who want to use rice cookers. It is also a good choice for everyday use.

Best for Brown Rice: Cuckoo CRP-P1009SW

• Capacity: 5 Quarts
• Wattage: 1150 watts
• Voltage: 110 Volts
• Material: Stainless Steel

The Cuckoo CRP-P1009SW is a powerhouse designed for cooking brown rice to perfection. With a generous 10-cup uncooked capacity, it’s ideal for larger families or meal preppers.

This model uses pressure cooking technology, which shortens cooking times while delivering tender, flavorful rice. Its GABA rice setting enhances the nutritional value of brown rice, making it an excellent choice for health-conscious users.

The sleek digital interface offers multiple cooking modes, including white rice, mixed grains, and porridge. The keep-warm function ensures your rice stays fresh for hours, while the nonstick inner pot is durable and easy to clean. The unique voice navigation feature adds a modern touch, guiding users through cooking.

The Cuckoo CRP-P1009SW costs more than basic models. However, its performance and unique features make it a good investment. I’ve seen a big difference in the taste and texture of brown rice with this cooker. It’s softer, sweeter, and cooks evenly every time. This model is a must-have if you prioritize brown rice in your diet.

Best for Small Kitchens: Dash Mini Rice Cooker Steamer

• Capacity: 2 Cups
• Material: Plastic, Metal
• Wattage: 200 watts
• Keep warm function and indicator light

The Dash Mini Rice Cooker is a compact and affordable option for those with limited kitchen space. With a 2-cup uncooked capacity, it’s perfect for singles, couples, or dorm rooms. Despite its small size, this rice cooker is versatile and capable of cooking white rice, brown rice, quinoa, oatmeal, and more.

Its one-button operation makes it very easy to use. The keep-warm function keeps your rice hot until you are ready to eat. The nonstick inner pot is removable and dishwasher-safe, making cleanup a breeze. Its lightweight and portable design also makes it ideal for travel or camping.

The Dash Mini is one of the most budget-friendly options on the market. While it lacks advanced features like fuzzy logic or multiple settings, it performs well for basic rice cooking. I like this model because it is simple and convenient. It is small but mighty, giving reliable results without needing much space.

Most Versatile Electric Pressure Cooker: Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1

• Capacity: 5.68 Liters
• Over 800 Recipes
• Wattage: 1000 watts
• Operation Mode: Automatic

I was eager to test the Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker. This versatile cooker does much more than just cook rice. It has a 6-quart capacity and offers pressure, slow, and more cooking.

In my tests, I found its rice-cooking capabilities good, though not entirely on par with dedicated high-end rice cookers. However, its versatility more than makes up for this. I was impressed by how quickly it could cook rice under pressure—perfect for busy evenings when time is of the essence.

It could switch between functions, which let me try different recipes. I made risottos and one-pot meals, all in the same appliance. The large capacity is great for batch cooking or feeding a crowd. I particularly appreciated the delay start feature, which let me set up my rice to be ready just as I got home from work.

The stainless steel inner pot is durable and easy to clean, a big plus in my book. While mastering all its functions requires a bit of a learning curve, the interface is intuitive.

If you have a small kitchen or like to try new cooking methods, the Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 is a great option. It may not cook rice as well as dedicated rice cookers. However, its many functions and convenience make it a great addition to any kitchen.

Best for Small Households: Toshiba Compact 3-Cup Rice Cooker

• Compact design
• Multiple cooking functions
• 3-cup capacity
• Product Dimensions: 9″D x 11″W x 8″H
• Wattage: 400 watts

The Toshiba Compact 3-Cup Rice Cooker has become an indispensable appliance in my small apartment kitchen. Its compact design is perfect for limited counter spaces, yet it doesn’t compromise on functionality.

After my testing, I was pleasantly surprised by how well it handled different types of rice, from standard white to more challenging brown rice. The 3-cup capacity is ideal for individuals or couples, producing the right amount without leftovers. I really liked the quick-cook function. It was helpful on busy weeknights when I needed rice fast.

The removable, non-stick inner pot made cleaning a breeze – a crucial factor for daily use. While it lacks the advanced features of larger, more expensive models, its simplicity is part of its charm.

The one-touch operation is straightforward and foolproof, perfect for those who want no-fuss rice cooking. I found the keep-warm function effective, maintaining the rice’s texture for several hours.

The included accessories, like the measuring cup and rice spatula, are nice touches that add to its value. The Toshiba Compact 3-Cup Rice Cooker is great for small households, but it may be too small for larger families or those who cook often.

However, it performs well and saves space. Its low price makes it an excellent choice for students, singles, or anyone who needs a simple rice cooker without spending too much.

Best Smart Features: KitchenAid Grain and Rice Cooker:

• Capacity: 8 Cups
• Wattage: 700 watts
• Dimensions: 9.75″D x 13.5″W x 8.88″H
• Wattage: 700 watts

I was particularly intrigued by the smart features of the KitchenAid Grain and Rice Cooker. This 8-cup cooker is special because it has a built-in scale and adjusts water automatically. I found these features very helpful during my tests.

By adding rice and letting the cooker find the right amount of water, I no longer had to guess. This led to perfectly cooked rice every time. I was impressed by how well it cooked different grains. It worked great with standard white rice and more challenging types like quinoa and farro.

The sleek, modern design is a welcome addition to any kitchen aesthetic. The interface, while feature-rich, is intuitive and easy to navigate. I really liked how precise the cooking process is. The cooker changes the time and temperature based on the type and amount of grain, ensuring the best results every time.

The keep-warm function worked flawlessly, maintaining the rice’s texture and flavour for hours.

Although the price is high, the technology and convenience it offers make it valuable. This is especially true for serious home cooks or anyone who frequently prepares various grains. The removable, non-stick cooking pot makes cleanup a breeze.

The KitchenAid Grain and Rice Cooker is an excellent choice for cooks who love technology or want precision. It mixes smart features with dependable performance.

How to Choose a Rice Cooker: Key Factors

Choosing a rice cooker starts with capacity. Small models (3–5 cups cooked) suit singles or couples, while larger units (8–10 cups or more) work best for families.

Next, decide between basic and multi-purpose cookers. Basic models offer simple one-touch operation for rice.

At the same time, multi-purpose options add programs for grains, porridge, steaming, or slow cooking. Consider that the lid design-sealed lids prevent spills and retain heat better than glass ones.

If you want versatility, look for clear, user-friendly controls and preset programs for different rice types. Essential functions include keep-warm and delay timers, which help plan meals and ensure rice stays fresh. Nonstick inner pots and removable parts make cleaning easier. Accessories like steam baskets or measuring cups add value and convenience.

Finally, match your budget to your needs. Affordable models work well for basic rice, while higher-end units offer more control and features for varied cooking. Always check reviews for reliability and ease of use.

Essential Features to Consider

The best rice cooker for your needs should include features that match your cooking habits and preferences:

• Cooking Programs: Check for preset options for different types of rice, like white, brown, and sushi. You can also find options for other grains if you like variety.
• Keep Warm Function: This essential feature maintains the serving temperature without overcooking. Premium models like Zojirushi can keep rice warm for hours without quality degradation.
• Delay Timer: Allows you to load ingredients and set cooking to begin later, ensuring fresh rice when needed.
• Quick Cook Option: Valuable for busy households, though quality may be slightly compromised compared to standard cooking cycles.
• Non-stick Inner Pot: Makes cleaning significantly easier. Consider the material-ceramic options like Greenpan, which offer eco-friendly alternatives to traditional coatings.
• Steam Function: Versatile cookers include steaming baskets for vegetables, fish, or dumplings while rice cooks below.
• Timer Display: Higher-end models show remaining cooking time, which helps with meal planning.
• Sound Alerts: Notification sounds or melodies (like Zojirushi’s “Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star”) indicate when cooking starts and finishes.
• Retractable Power Cord: A convenient feature for storage found in some premium models.

By focusing on these factors- capacity, functions, ease of use, cleaning, and price- you can find a rice cooker that delivers consistent, tasty results and fits your kitchen routine.

Tips for Using and Maintaining Your Rice Cooker

• Rinse Your Rice: This removes excess starch for fluffier grains.
• Use the Right Ratio: Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for water-to-rice ratios.
• Clean Immediately: Prevent residue buildup by washing the inner pot after each use.
• Experiment with Settings: Try different modes to find what works best for your favorite rice types.

Frequently Asked Questions About Rice Cookers

Is a Rice Cooker Worth Buying?

For regular rice eaters, absolutely. Rice cookers deliver consistent results without monitoring, freeing up stovetop space and attention for other cooking tasks. Even simple models outperform stovetop methods in consistency and convenience for most home cooks.

How Do Rice Cookers Know When Rice is Done?

Basic rice cookers work simply. They know when all the water is gone. This happens when the temperature goes above boiling point, which is 212°F or 100°C. Advanced models using fuzzy logic monitor multiple parameters and continuously adjust throughout cooking.

Can Rice Cookers Make Other Grains Besides Rice?

Yes, most modern rice cookers can prepare various grains, including quinoa, oats, barley, and farro. Many also steam vegetables, make porridge, and some premium models can even bake cakes or make yogurt.

Are Expensive Rice Cookers Worth the Money?

Premium models offer better texture, flavor, and consistency. This is great for rice lovers or anyone who cooks rice often. Their longevity also makes them cost-effective over time. However, occasional rice eaters may not notice enough difference to justify the higher price.

What’s the Best Way to Clean a Rice Cooker?

Most rice cookers have removable inner pots. You should wash these pots after each use. Some pots are dishwasher safe, while others need to be washed by hand. Inner lids typically detach for cleaning. For the heating element, simply wipe with a damp cloth when the unit is cool. Regular cleaning prevents rice buildup and extends the cooker’s lifespan.

Conclusion: Which Rice Cooker is Right for You?

Choosing the right rice cooker depends on your needs and budget. For most households, the Zojirushi NP-HCC10 offers the best balance of performance and features.

If you’re on a budget, Hamilton Beach Digital is a reliable choice. For tech enthusiasts, the Xiaomi Mi Induction is a smart pick. No matter your preference, a quality rice cooker is a valuable addition to any kitchen.

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Engr. Jamal Hosan

Engr. Hm Jamal is the creator of Kitchen Depot, a Kitchen Appliances expert and water treatment specialist. An electrical engineer by trade, he's a thinker, problem solver, and innovation enthusiast.