Why do we all need a rice cooker in our kitchen arsenal? Because the perfect bowl of fluffy rice can turn a quick meal into the perfect dinner party meal. However, it’s too easy to undercook or overcook rice. This leaves it gooey or crunchy rather than chewy. Luckily, we’ve found the best rice cookers by gobbling down bags loaded with grains, from sushi rice to risotto, Buddha bowls to brown rice.

The ideal rice cooker should be simple to use and capable of producing the perfect grain every time. But does spending more mean better-tasting rice? Or are budget brands following the techniques of generations of Asian cooks proving that simplicity works? To find out, we tested the latest rice cookers from major brands Yum Asia, Russell Hobbs, Ninja, Tefal and many more. You can read our full reviews of the ten best machines below, with lots of details on the main features. But if you’re in a hurry, here’s a look at our top five:

What are the best rice cookers in 2024? At a glance

What to Look for in a Rice Cooker

The first thing to consider is what size rice cooker would best suit your household. Most devices measure rice in cups, with a ratio of one cup of rice to one cup of water. So, mini rice cookers typically prepare one to two servings. “Investing in a rice cooker ensures you get perfect, consistent rice effortlessly,” says Rahel Stephanie, the chef at Indonesian supper club Spoons.

There is crossover with other kitchen gadgets: some chefs like to use a slow cooker to prepare rice, and you can read our guide to these versatile machines here. Many major kitchen brands make both rice cookers and slow cookers, including Instant, Lakeland, and Russell Hobbs. Those who lack storage space can of course also use the quality frying pans or pans to prepare just the right risotto.

Basic rice cookers will have a single on/off switch; more advanced models have a range of settings for white and brown rice and other grains, as well as a “delay start.” Multi-cookers with a rice cooker function can prepare your cereal while simultaneously steaming fish, chicken or vegetables, for example, to create a complete meal.

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How I Tested the Best Rice Cookers