10 Best Rice Cookers 2026 in the United States

The Zojirushi NS-ZCC10 is a well-regarded rice cooker that stands out for its advanced Neuro Fuzzy logic technology, which helps ensure perfectly cooked rice by adjusting cooking times and temperatures based on the type of rice being prepared. With a capacity of 5-1/2 cups, it’s ideal for small to medium-sized families or individuals who enjoy rice regularly.

One of the key strengths of this rice cooker is its versatility; it offers multiple cooking functions, including settings for white rice, brown rice, porridge, and even quick cooking. The automatic keep-warm feature is particularly beneficial as it maintains the rice at a perfect serving temperature without overcooking it.

The spherical nonstick inner pan allows for even cooking and easy cleaning, while the user-friendly LCD clock and timer make it simple to keep track of your cooking. On the design front, it’s compact enough to fit in most kitchens without taking up too much counter space, and the retractable cord adds to its convenience. There are some potential drawbacks to consider. The price point is higher than many basic rice cookers, which might make it less accessible for budget-conscious consumers. Also, while the cooker is generally easy to clean, the nonstick coating requires gentle care to maintain its condition over time. Additionally, the measuring cups included are specific to the product, which means users should avoid using standard measuring cups to ensure accurate rice-to-water ratios.

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.

The Instant Pot Pro 10-in-1 is a versatile kitchen appliance that excels beyond the typical rice cooker, making it an excellent choice for users who appreciate multifunctionality. With a 6-quart capacity, it's ideal for larger families or those who like meal prepping. The variety of cooking functions—like pressure cooking, slow cooking, and sautéing—offers flexibility, letting you choose between quick meals or traditional cooking methods. Plus, the inclusion of customizable programs and a selection of 28 settings means you can easily prepare a wide range of dishes.

The keep-warm feature is a great addition, ensuring your meals stay warm until you're ready to eat. Cleaning is simple thanks to its dishwasher-safe components, making post-cooking cleanup a breeze.

While its multifunctionality is a strength, it may not replace a dedicated rice cooker for those who primarily want to cook rice. Some users might find the learning curve steep due to its many features and settings, which could be overwhelming for beginners. The size might also be an issue for those with limited kitchen space, as it’s relatively bulky, weighing around 13.2 pounds.

The price point is higher than a standard rice cooker, which could be a consideration for budget-conscious shoppers. If you’re looking primarily for a rice cooker, you might want to weigh the price against your needs. However, if you want a multi-cooker that also makes great rice, the Instant Pot Pro 10-in-1 is worth considering.