10 Best Rice Cookers 2026 in the United States

The CUCKOO CRP-LHTR0609FW rice cooker offers a range of features and functionalities that cater to different cooking needs. With a 6-cup uncooked (12-cup cooked) capacity, it's suitable for medium to large households. The 16 versatile cooking modes, including options for white rice, brown rice, and even baby food, provide flexibility in meal preparation. The dual cooking pressure selections (high and non-pressure) allow for different rice textures, making it convenient for various preferences. The induction heating technology ensures efficient and quick cooking by evenly distributing heat around the inner pot.

The nonstick inner pot, made from premium-grade 304 stainless steel, not only enhances durability but also makes cleaning easier. Additionally, the auto-clean function further simplifies maintenance. The included accessories like a rice spatula, measuring cup, and steam plate add value to the purchase.

However, the rice cooker is relatively heavy at 20.7 pounds and might occupy significant counter space with dimensions of 15.1 x 10.3 x 10.2 inches. It also requires hand washing, which could be less convenient for some users. Priced on the higher end, it may not be the most budget-friendly option, but its array of features and quality make it a worthy consideration for those looking for a versatile and efficient rice cooker.

The Aroma Professional Digital Rice Cooker is a solid choice for individuals or small families thanks to its compact 4-cup uncooked (8-cup cooked) capacity. Its size makes it ideal if you want a space-saving appliance without sacrificing digital features. It offers six versatile cooking modes including white and brown rice, steaming, slow cooking, and grain cooking, which means it can handle a variety of meals beyond just rice. The included BPA-free steam basket lets you cook rice and steam veggies or proteins simultaneously, adding convenience.

Its sensor technology smartly monitors moisture and adjusts heat for better cooking results, and the sauté-then-simmer feature helps improve flavor by gently cooking under the lid. The inner pot is non-stick, which makes cleaning easier, though hand washing is recommended. The 15-hour delay timer and automatic keep-warm function are useful for meal planning and ensuring food stays ready to eat without drying out. The stainless steel exterior is both durable and attractive, though the cooker weighs around 4.4 pounds, which is a moderate heft for portability.

The cooker includes safety features like a lock and programmable settings but does not have fuzzy logic, which some higher-end cookers use for even more precise cooking adjustments. This rice cooker balances smart functionality with simplicity and is well-suited for everyday cooks who want a multifunctional, compact appliance without a steep learning curve.

The Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 is a versatile kitchen appliance that combines a pressure cooker, slow cooker, rice cooker, steamer, sauté pan, yogurt maker, and food warmer in one. With an 8-quart capacity, it’s ideal for larger families or those who like to batch cook. It offers 13 smart, customizable cooking programs including specific settings for rice, which means you can cook rice quickly and with consistent results. The pressure cooking function speeds up meal prep, cooking dishes up to 70% faster than traditional methods. The keep warm feature is handy for serving meals at the right temperature without overcooking.

Cleaning is convenient thanks to fingerprint-resistant stainless steel sides and dishwasher-safe parts. Its size is somewhat large, so it needs adequate counter space and may be less suited for small kitchens. The stainless steel inner pot with tri-ply bottom promotes even cooking and also allows for sautéing ingredients right in the pot. While the price is higher than basic rice cookers, the multiple functions and safety features, including overheat protection and a safe-locking lid, add good value.

For those seeking a multi-functional cooker that can handle rice and many other dishes with ease and who have the counter space to accommodate its larger footprint, this Instant Pot model is a solid choice.