8 Best Rice Cookers 2025 (Expert Picks & Buying Guide)

Love rice but tired of messing it up? You are in the right place! Today, we are talking about the best rice cookers that make perfect rice every time. Get ready to make cooking super easy and fun!

The 8 Best Rice Cookers 2025

Are you tired of constantly keeping an eye on your rice while it’s cooking, hoping it won’t burn or become too sticky? If you’re nodding yes, then it’s time to invest in a rice cooker! Rice cookers are lifesavers in the kitchen, making sure your rice comes out perfectly every time with minimal effort.

We’ve picked out a variety of models with different price points and features to help you find the perfect match. Let’s explore some of the top picks for 2025 and find the perfect match for your kitchen.

1. Instant Pot Pro (8 QT) 10-in-1 Pressure Cooker

The Instant Pot Pro (8 QT) 10-in-1 Pressure Cooker is a fantastic kitchen companion for anyone who loves to cook a variety of meals with ease. It features a premium cookware-grade inner pot with stay-cool silicone handles, so you can even use it on your stovetop, which adds extra versatility. You can program your favorite recipes with five custom settings, or pick from 28 smart programs for everyday meals like soups, stews, and more.

Whether you want to pressure cook to save time or slow cook for rich flavors, this Instant Pot has you covered. It also comes packed with safety features like Overheat Protection, a safe locking lid, and an upgraded steam release switch that is quieter and prevents messes. With its 8-quart capacity, it is perfect for larger families or for batch cooking. This Instant Pot truly makes mealtime faster, easier, and a lot more enjoyable.

2. Yum Asia Sakura Rice Cooker

The Yum Asia Sakura Rice Cooker is perfect for anyone who loves having perfect rice at the touch of a button. It uses advanced fuzzy logic AI technology to control 7 different cooking phases, ensuring the best taste, texture, and aroma for every type of rice. Besides rice, you can also cook porridge, casseroles, soups, cakes, and even yoghurt. The 24-hour timer and keep warm function make it incredibly convenient for busy days.

It features a high-quality 5-layer, 2mm Ninja ceramic-coated inner bowl that is durable, easy to clean, and has clear water level markings. The stylish modern design includes an ice-blue LED display and an easy-to-use Korean ‘Motouch’ control panel. The 3D heating system makes sure heat is evenly distributed for consistent cooking. If you want a feature-packed rice cooker that can handle more than just rice, the Yum Asia Sakura is an excellent choice.

3. TOSHIBA Rice Cooker

The TOSHIBA Rice Cooker is a smart and versatile appliance that makes cooking different types of rice and grains easy and foolproof. Whether it is white rice, brown rice, jasmine, or even quinoa, this rice cooker adjusts the cooking time and temperature automatically for perfect results every time. Its ultra-thick 3mm inner pot with Binchotan carbon helps concentrate heat, making your rice fluffy and delicious.

The easy-to-use control panel features a large LED display, and it comes with useful features like Keep Warm, Reheat, and two Delay Timers that let you plan your meals ahead by up to 24 hours. Accessories like a measuring cup, spatula, and soup ladle are included. This rice cooker is a great pick for families or individuals who want reliable, perfectly cooked rice and appreciate having extra cooking options.

4. CUCKOO (CR-0375FW) Rice Cooker

The CUCKOO (CR-0375FW) Rice Cooker is a simple yet versatile tool that makes it easy to cook perfect rice and much more. It can prepare up to 6 cups of rice, making it ideal for both small families and daily meals. With a user-friendly control panel, you can quickly switch between different cooking options like white rice, brown rice, oats, and even baby food.

Cleaning is easy too, thanks to the non-stick inner pot and removable lid. It even has a self-cleaning setting to make maintenance hassle-free. The quick rice setting is perfect when you are in a hurry, and the timer and warming mode ensure that your meals are always ready when you are. If you want a compact, easy-to-use rice cooker that delivers consistent results every time, the CUCKOO CR-0375FW is a fantastic choice.

5. Zojirushi Micom 3-Cup Compact Size Rice Cooker

The Zojirushi Micom 3-Cup Compact Size Rice Cooker is an excellent choice for small households or couples. Despite its small size, it offers a lot of functionality, including a special setting for steel-cut oatmeal and a GABA brown rice setting that increases the health benefits of brown rice by activating it during cooking.

It also features a long grain white rice setting, which is different from the standard white rice setting, ensuring perfect results for all types of rice. The compact design saves counter space, and it can cook as little as half a cup of rice, reducing waste. With its precise temperature control and easy-to-use interface, this rice cooker makes cooking small batches of rice or grains simple and reliable.

6. Bear 1.2L Mini Rice Cooker

The Bear 1.2L Mini Rice Cooker is the perfect solution for individuals, couples, or anyone who needs a compact, efficient rice cooker. It can cook up to 2 cups of uncooked white rice, and it is also great for making oatmeal, quinoa, stews, soups, and even pasta. Its small size makes it ideal for apartments, dorms, or RVs.

Using it is super easy – just press one button, and you will have perfectly cooked rice in about 25 minutes. It also features a keep-warm function, so your food stays ready to eat without getting overcooked. Cleaning is a breeze because of the removable non-stick inner pot and detachable lid. If you want a compact, easy-to-use, and versatile mini rice cooker, the Bear 1.2L is a great and affordable option.

7. Aroma (ARC-1033E) Housewares Rice Cooker

The Aroma (ARC-1033E) Housewares Rice Cooker is perfect for anyone who needs to cook large batches of rice. It can handle up to 30 cups of raw rice, producing 60 cups of cooked rice, which is ideal for large families, events, or meal prepping. Despite its big size, it is very easy to use with a simple one-touch operation – just fill it, turn it on, and let it cook.

The heavy-duty stainless steel lid and non-stick inner pot keep the rice warm and ready to serve for hours. It automatically switches to Keep Warm mode after cooking, so you never have to worry about overcooking. Cleanup is also simple with the non-stick inner pot. It comes with two measuring cups and a serving spatula, making it a convenient all-in-one package.

8. COSORI 10 Cup Rice Cooker

The COSORI 10 Cup Rice Cooker is a highly versatile kitchen gadget with 18 cooking functions. It can handle various types of rice, grains, oats, vegetables, soups, and even flavored rice. The fuzzy logic technology automatically adjusts the cooking process, ensuring that your rice comes out fluffy and perfectly cooked every time, even if you are not an experienced cook.

It offers a 24-hour keep warm function and a 24-hour delay timer, making it easy to have fresh, warm meals ready whenever you want. The Quick Rice function is great for busy days when you need to cook white rice faster without losing flavor or quality. Cleaning is easy too, as all accessories, including the non-stick inner pot and removable lid, are dishwasher-safe.

What to Look for in a Rice Cooker: Features to Consider (Buying Guide)

Before you rush off to buy a rice cooker, let’s talk about the features you should consider when making your choice. A good rice cooker isn’t just about the brand or price; it’s about finding the right combination of features that match your cooking style and needs. Here’s a breakdown of the most important factors to think about:

Capacity and Size

The capacity of your rice cooker will largely depend on how much rice you typically cook. If you’re cooking for one or two people, a smaller rice cooker with a capacity of around 3-4 cups of uncooked rice might be perfect. For larger families or if you often entertain guests, a 6-10 cup rice cooker will ensure you have plenty to go around.

It’s important to note that the “cup” measurement in rice cookers is not the same as a standard measuring cup. Rice cookers use a special cup size, which is typically about 180 ml (roughly 6 ounces). Keep this in mind when choosing your cooker to ensure you’re selecting one with enough capacity for your needs.

Cooking Modes and Functions

Rice cookers have come a long way from just cooking plain rice. Depending on your needs, you may want one with multiple cooking modes. Here are some popular options:

• White rice cooking: This is the most common setting and works well for standard white rice.
• Brown rice cooking: Brown rice takes longer to cook than white rice, so look for a rice cooker with this specialized setting.
• Quick cooking: If you’re in a rush, a quick cooking mode can reduce cooking time without sacrificing too much quality.
• Steam function: Many rice cookers double as steamers, allowing you to steam vegetables or fish at the same time.
• Slow cooking: Some high-end models also offer slow cooking functionality, which is great for making soups, stews, and even risotto.
• Porridge: A useful feature if you want to make breakfast oatmeal or creamy porridge.

The more functions, the more versatility your rice cooker will have in the kitchen.

Keep Warm and Delay Timer

Most rice cookers come with a “Keep Warm” function, which maintains your rice at the perfect serving temperature until you’re ready to eat. This feature is especially useful if you’re not eating right after cooking. A delay timer is also handy for scheduling your rice to cook while you’re out or busy with other tasks.

Design and Ease of Use

A rice cooker’s design plays a crucial role in its usability. Look for a cooker with an easy-to-read display and user-friendly buttons. Some models even offer digital screens with preset cooking functions, while others may have simple push-button designs. The material and build of the cooker are also important; stainless steel models tend to be durable and easy to clean, while non-stick interiors ensure your rice doesn’t stick to the pot.

Price and Brand

Price is always a factor when making any purchase. The best rice cookers can range from budget-friendly to premium prices, so determine your budget before you start shopping. It’s also essential to choose a reliable brand that’s known for quality and durability. Some trusted brands in the rice cooker market include Zojirushi, Panasonic, Tiger, and Cuckoo.

How to Choose the Right Rice Cooker for You

Choosing the right rice cooker comes down to understanding your specific needs. Are you cooking rice just for yourself, or do you need to feed a family of six? Do you want something that can cook a variety of grains, or are you focused on perfect rice every time?

Consider Your Cooking Habits

If you cook rice regularly, it’s worth investing in a high-quality rice cooker that will ensure perfect results each time. On the other hand, if you cook rice occasionally, you might prefer a budget-friendly model. Also, consider how much rice you typically make—more capacity means a higher price.

Versatility vs. Simplicity

Some rice cookers are multifunctional, allowing you to make soups, steam vegetables, and even bake cakes. These models are great if you want an all-in-one appliance. However, if you only need a rice cooker and nothing more, a simpler model may be sufficient.

Budget

There’s a wide price range when it comes to rice cookers. You can find budget models starting around $20, while premium ones can cost $200 or more. If you’re looking for a reliable and basic model, you don’t need to spend a lot. But if you want advanced features, you may need to invest more.

I hope this guide has made it easier for you to choose the best rice cooker for your kitchen in 2025. Whether you’re cooking for one or a family, a good rice cooker can save you time and effort while ensuring your rice is cooked to perfection. Consider your needs, budget, and desired features to find the perfect match. Happy cooking!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is it safe to use a rice cooker every day?

Yes, it is completely safe to use a rice cooker every day as long as you follow the manufacturer’s instructions for maintenance and care. Rice cookers are designed for frequent use and can last a long time with proper upkeep. Make sure to clean your cooker regularly and store it in a safe place to avoid any potential issues.

Can I cook quinoa in a rice cooker?

Yes, you can cook quinoa in a rice cooker. In fact, many rice cookers come with a setting specifically for quinoa, or you can simply use the white rice setting. Quinoa typically cooks in the same way as white rice, so a rice cooker is an easy and convenient option.

Do I need a rice cooker if I already have a pressure cooker?

It depends on your needs. A pressure cooker like the Instant Pot can cook rice, but a dedicated rice cooker may provide more consistent and fluffy results. If you cook rice frequently, a rice cooker is likely to give you better results with less monitoring.

Is it possible to cook other grains besides rice?

Yes, most modern rice cookers can cook a variety of grains such as oats, barley, farro, and even beans. Some rice cookers even have specific settings for different grains, allowing you to cook them with ease and get the best results.

Can I leave the rice cooker on keep-warm for hours?

Yes, most rice cookers have a “keep warm” feature that can keep rice warm for several hours. However, it’s best not to leave rice in the cooker for too long as it may begin to dry out or become too sticky. Generally, 4-6 hours is the recommended maximum time.

Is it better to buy a non-stick or stainless steel rice cooker?

It depends on your preference. Non-stick rice cookers are easier to clean and prevent rice from sticking, but they may not be as durable as stainless steel models. Stainless steel rice cookers are more durable and long-lasting but may require a little more effort to clean.

Do I need a rice cooker with a delay timer?

If you have a busy schedule and want rice ready when you get home, a rice cooker with a delay timer is incredibly convenient. It allows you to set the cooking time in advance, so your rice will be perfectly cooked by the time you need it.

Can I make cake in a rice cooker?

Yes, some rice cookers come with a cake-baking function. Even if your model doesn’t have a specific cake setting, you can still bake a cake in many rice cookers by adjusting the cooking time. Look for a recipe designed for rice cookers to ensure the best results.