10Best.Guide

Rice Cooker Small

Top Picks

Last Updated: May, 2023
Pros
  • Easy to use and set up
  • Rice comes out perfectly cooked and delicious
  • Has a timer function for convenience
  • Made with high quality materials
  • Can cook a variety of rice types
Cons
  • Expensive compared to other rice cookers
  • Learning curve for some users
Bottom Line
The Zojirushi rice cooker is a high quality, easy to use appliance that produces perfectly cooked rice. While it may be more expensive than other brands, its durability and versatility make it a worthwhile investment for those who frequently cook rice.
Pros
  • Makes perfect rice every time
  • Good build quality
  • Large and contrasty markings to add water
  • Rice grains are independent of each other
  • Good quality nonstick bowl
Cons
  • Takes longer to cook than other rice cookers
  • Inner pot non-stick coating peels off
Bottom Line
The Zojirushi rice cooker is a high-quality product that makes perfect rice every time. It has a good build quality and large markings to add water. However, it is expensive and takes longer to cook than other rice cookers. The inner pot non-stick coating may peel off, and customer service is not satisfactory.
Pros
  • Easy to use
  • Makes perfect rice every time
  • Good build quality
  • Timer function
  • Easy to clean
Cons
  • Inadequate manual
  • Limited capacity
Bottom Line
The Toshiba rice cooker is a great investment for those who want to make perfect rice every time with ease. However, the manual could use some improvement and the capacity is limited.
Pros
  • Cooks rice quickly
  • Nice texture
  • Easy to use
  • Handy for small families or single servings
  • Affordable price
Cons
  • Small size
  • Overflows easily
Bottom Line
This rice cooker is a good option for small families or single servings. It cooks rice quickly and has a nice texture. However, it has a small size and can overflow easily. It is also not accurate with measuring cups and takes longer to cook than stovetop.
Pros
  • Makes perfect rice
  • Durable and long-lasting
  • Easy to use and program
  • Good for cooking other grains
  • Convenient preset cooking timers
Cons
  • Rice can dry out quickly on warmer
  • Batteries need to be replaced
Bottom Line
The Zojirushi rice cooker is a durable and long-lasting appliance that makes perfect rice and is easy to use. However, it is expensive and may have issues with the warmer drying out rice quickly.

The Ultimate Buying Guide for Small Rice Cookers: Top Picks, Features, and Tips

Overview

A small rice cooker is the perfect solution for those with limited kitchen space, or for those who only need to cook small portions of rice. However, with so many options on the market, it can be challenging to choose the right one. In this buying guide, we'll cover the top types of small rice cookers, key considerations to keep in mind, must-have features, prices, and tips to help you make the best decision.

Types

1. Basic Small Rice Cookers: These are the simplest and most affordable option, typically with a one-button operation and a small capacity of up to 3 cups of rice.

2. Multi-Functional Small Rice Cookers: These offer additional features such as steaming, slow cooking, and even baking, making them more versatile and convenient.

3. Portable Small Rice Cookers: These are ideal for those who need to cook rice on-the-go, such as for camping or traveling. They are compact and lightweight, and some even come with a carrying handle.

Key Considerations

1. Capacity: Consider how much rice you need to cook at once. Small rice cookers typically range from 1 to 3 cups of uncooked rice.

2. Size and Weight: Make sure the small rice cooker you choose fits your available counter or storage space, and is easy to move around if necessary.

3. Power and Cooking Time: Look for a small rice cooker with a sufficient wattage and cooking time to ensure your rice is cooked evenly and thoroughly.

4. Price: Set a budget and choose a small rice cooker that fits your needs and price range.

Features

1. Non-Stick Inner Pot: This makes cleaning up a breeze and prevents rice from sticking to the pot.

2. Keep Warm Function: This feature keeps your rice warm and fresh for hours after cooking.

3. Steaming Basket: Some small rice cookers come with a steaming basket, allowing you to cook vegetables, meat, or fish while your rice cooks.

4. Delay Timer: This feature allows you to set a timer for the rice cooker to start cooking at a later time, so you can have fresh rice ready when you need it.

Prices

Basic small rice cookers can range from $15 to $40, while multi-functional and portable small rice cookers can cost up to $100.

Tips

1. Rinse your rice before cooking to remove excess starch and ensure fluffier rice.

2. Use the correct ratio of rice to water, typically 1:1.5 or 1:2 depending on the type of rice.

3. Let your rice sit for a few minutes after cooking to allow the steam to escape and prevent it from becoming too sticky.

FAQs

Q: Can I use a small rice cooker to cook other grains besides rice?

A: Yes, many small rice cookers can also cook quinoa, oats, and other grains.

Q: Can I cook more than just rice in a multi-functional small rice cooker?

A: Yes, you can use the additional features to cook a variety of dishes such as soups, stews, and even desserts.

Q: Can I cook frozen vegetables in the steaming basket of a small rice cooker?

A: It's not recommended to cook frozen vegetables in a steaming basket as they may not cook evenly. It's best to thaw them first.

Runner-Ups

Pros
  • Makes great rice
  • Easy to use
  • Holds more than other similarly priced cookers
  • Simple to use
  • Affordable
Cons
  • Some models turn to warm too quickly
  • Design changes have made the product worse
Bottom Line
The Aroma rice cooker is an affordable and reliable option for those looking for a simple and easy-to-use rice cooker. While some models may have issues with turning to warm too quickly or have design changes that make the product worse, overall it is a great option for making perfect rice every time.
Pros
  • Easy to use and clean
  • Cooks rice quickly
  • Can cook different types of grains
  • Affordable price
  • Convenient one-touch operation
Cons
  • Rice can burn quickly if not unplugged immediately
  • No instructions included
Bottom Line
The Aroma Housewares 6-cup Rice Cooker is an affordable and convenient appliance that can cook different types of grains quickly and easily. However, it requires careful attention to prevent burning and does not come with instructions.
Pros
  • Comes with a plastic steamer basket, coated inside pot, directions, and a measuring cup.
  • Super simple to use and the directions were easy to follow.
  • Works great with a variety of foods.
  • Automatic cooking of risotto.
  • Rice comes out perfect every time.
Cons
  • Smaller than some previous models.
  • Slight learning curve to get perfect rice.
Bottom Line
The Aroma ARC-994SB rice cooker is a well-designed and easy-to-use product that produces perfect rice every time. It also has additional features for cooking various grains and automatic cooking of risotto. However, there may be a slight learning curve to get perfect rice and it may not come with all items if purchased used.
Pros
  • Basic and easy to use
  • Affordable
  • Makes perfect rice
  • Compact and doesn't take much space
  • Small size, ease of use and cooking speed
Cons
  • Tends to overcook rice at the bottom
  • Results are okay
Bottom Line
The Aroma rice cooker is a reliable and affordable kitchen workhorse that makes perfect rice and is great for cooking oatmeal. However, it tends to overcook rice at the bottom and has some issues with the model's claims.
Pros
  • Inexpensive and small, good for single users.
  • Cooks rice well and steams nicely.
  • Easy to clean and store.
  • Comes with a steamer attachment.
  • Perfect size for one or two people.
Cons
  • No audible alarm to indicate cooking is done.
  • No on/off switch.
Bottom Line
The Aroma rice cooker is a great option for single users or small households who want an inexpensive and easy-to-use rice cooker. It cooks rice well and comes with a steamer attachment, making it a versatile addition to any kitchen. However, it lacks some features such as an audible alarm and on/off switch, and the non-stick coating may wear off over time.
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