In Asia, it is called rice cooker and it is a device found in many kitchens, since it cooks perfect rice every time without any supervision. This allows you to focus on the other dishes to be cooked. In USA, it is called a rice cooker or sometimes even a pressure cooker (but not to be confused with a real pressure cooker that is much more versatile).
To help you choose the Best Small Rice Cookers that is reliable and within your budget, we show you different models below, including our favorite rice cooker the Cuisinart CRC800E .
Why are our Small Rice Cookers reliable?
To make precise and above all objective selections, suitable for as many people as possible, we take the time to compare the devices and understand the specificities of each.
So a rice cooker is not stupidly used as a saucepan ( find out more ) and if you do not wash the rice well, you will have problems with overflow or odd crust. In addition, since there are more and more versatile cookers, we will not be satisfied with ultra basic devices.
In concrete terms, our analysis is based on various sources such as best sales, prices awarded by professionals, the opinions of users who are expressed after several months of use (on Amazon, blogs or dedicated forums) and finally, when c our own product tests are possible.
All brands are taken into account because we are an independent site ( find out more ) and we do not favor any company. This precise approach is the same for all our guides, whether we present the best multicookers or the best rice cookers .
How to choose a device for Small Rice Cookers?
In order to know which rice cooker to buy, there are actually few features to consider, as this is a fairly basic device, with few options and hardly any accessories. However there are many tangible elements that allow a comparison between rice cookers and we present them to you below.
The number of servings of rice
La contenance de la cuve est le premier point essentiel et dépend de votre famille et de la quantité de riz que vous mangez à chaque repas. En général, il est considéré qu’une portion de riz fait entre 180 et 200 ml. Le cuiseur a une capacité maximale totale (si on cherchait à mettre de l’eau jusqu’au bord) et une capacité maximale pour le riz. La nuance est floue entre les deux et donc le plus simple est de chercher le nombre de portions de riz possible.
Versatility
A rice cooker is a device that cooks cereals in water, not just rice. It is also often sold (but not always) with a steamer basket, which eliminates the need for a steamer .
The interview
It is still easier to be able to put all the removable parts in the dishwasher and to have an easy to clean exterior (plastic is often faster to maintain than brushed steel). Surprisingly enough, going in the dishwasher is not systematic, so do your research.
Accessories
Conventionally, there is a spatula which allows you to serve without damaging the coating of the bowl. In addition, we very often have a measuring glass. More optional accessories are a recipe booklet and a steamer basket.
The opening system
For a long time, cookers simply had a lid to lift and set aside. Now some French brand products have a lid that opens like a bread machine, for example. That is, the cover is attached to the device. This frees the hands and makes serving more easily. Otherwise there are also more and more hooks to put the lid on the side of the cooker.
The design
In general we have the choice between white plastic and brushed steel (with a gray, metallic rendering). However, there are black devices, but also pink, purple, red. It takes a little more research online, but no one is forcing you to have serious cooking.
The price
Normally an electric rice cooker is not expensive. For 40-50 EUR, we have access to very good models for 5 people. A smaller model generally costs the same price, but for more portions, the budget will have to be increased.The price
The brand
Even though it’s a product that comes from Asia, unless you can buy it in an Asian supermarket in France (like Tang Frères) with a seller who knows everything, well it is better to stick to brands European countries with a good reputation (like Philips, Seb, Tefal, etc.). Indeed, this allows you to have a notice in French, to be able to contact the after-sales service and to benefit from all the consumer protections in place with us.
The Best Small Rice Cookers for You
Cuisinart CRC800E
Pros
- Very large capacity
- Spare part always available
- Steam basket included
- Clear
- instructions Non-stick pan
Cons
- Not for a single person
This rice pressure cooker has been one of the best devices on sale in France for years. Its price drops slightly over time and positive reviews continue to be filed.
This is a device that allows you to cook rice and cereals, steam and simmer (although the latter function seems quite anecdotal). The included steamer basket sits above the rice bowl, allowing rice to be cooked on the bottom and steamed vegetables on top. The power is quite sufficient to do this. It is also relatively easy to try various recipes, because the instructions are clear and explain how to prepare a large number of cereals.
The pan is made of aluminum with a non-stick coating. The same device is available in two formats: for 6 or for 12 people . Either way, it’s not really ideal for making rice for one person. It is a square device with a base of 25 × 23 cm and a height of 26 cm. It weighs 2.6 kg . The start button is on one side, while the one to choose between cooking and keeping warm is on another.
Some people find that the water overflows when cooking. In reality, you must first make sure that the rice is really well washed . Then you have to cook, leaving the steamer basket on top, upside down and then the lid. You will then have absolutely no overflow. And since everything is dishwasher safe, it doesn’t really do extra dishes.
Tefal Classic 2 RK1011
Pros
- Steam basket included
- Real on-off button
- 1.8 l capacity
- Glass lid
- Automatic keep warm
Cons
- No recipe book
This Tefal white rice cooker is a simple device that can cook various cereals in water as well as steam dishes. For this it has a tank with a capacity of 1.8 liters which allows you to prepare 10 portions of rice at one time . There is also a steamer basket that sits on top of the appliance. Finally it all ends with a glass cover. It doesn’t help much to monitor the cooking since the steam creates steam, but it’s always nicer to vaguely follow what’s going on.
It is also a model with a power of 750 watts . It is very round, with a diameter of 29 cm and a height of 30 cm. It weighs 3.6 kg . It has a real on / off button, which allows it to be plugged in permanently without power consumption. On the front is the button that allows you to choose between cook and keep warm. On the other hand, the cooker must be installed without contact with other appliances, because during cooking the outer wall heats up slightly.
Finally, a very practical little detail, there is a hanging system for the lid , while the service is being performed. Finally, a measuring cup and a spoon are included.
Tefal Classic 2 RK102811
Pros
- Steam basket included
- Graduation in the tank
- For 1 l of rice max
- Classy design
- Intuitive use
Cons
- No cookbook
The Tefal Classic 2 rice cooker is a particularly classy model thanks to its completely black color . This changes the many white or stainless steel devices. It still has a glass cover to follow the cooking of the rice (even if you can never see very well).
The tank has a maximum capacity of 3 liters, which allows it to prepare one liter of raw rice (approximately 5 servings of 200 grams). An internal graduation lets you know how much rice and how much water to put. However, one of the tips is to follow the technique used by all mothers of Chinese origin: put one glass per person, then add water so as to have the equivalent of a phalanx of water above rice. It may take some fine-tuning the first few times, but then it’s a quick and practical tip.
The Tefal device has a diameter of 27 cm and it is 22 cm high. It weighs 2.45 kg . It is sold with three accessories: a steamer basket , a spatula and a measuring glass. The steamer basket is positioned inside the appliance and therefore asks to choose between cooking rice or steaming (unlike the Cuisenart appliance selected above). All removable parts can be machine washed.
Russell Hobbs 27080-56
Pros
- Up to 14 servings of rice
- Lockable lid
- Steam basket included
- Keep warm
- Removable non-stick bowl
Cons
- Rice or steam cooking
This rice cooker is one of those new models with a lid attached to the base that you don’t really need to worry about. The advantages are multiple, from space saving to better security. Indeed, this cover is lockable , so young children cannot open it out of curiosity. It also avoids hassle with distracted adults. Then, with the lid open and in its place, it is not necessary to find a place to put it (especially since it is very hot at the end of cooking).
In addition to this practicality, this rice cooker is suitable for large families. It allows you to prepare 14 portions of rice at one time. It therefore has a capacity of 2.8 kg. It really is a lot. It’s not practical for everyone, but large families and batch-cooking enthusiasts will appreciate it.
A steamer basket is included, however you cannot prepare rice and a steamer dish at the same time. We must choose between one or the other (the only flaw in the cover?). The other accessories are a measuring cup and a spoon. The bowl is non-stick and removable. It can be placed in the dishwasher, but its coating is such that it washes very easily by hand (without ever scratching with the green side of a sponge).
Russell Hobbs 19750-56
Pros
- Up to 10 portions of rice
- Automatic
- shut- off Good steam cooking
- Brushed steel
- Robust
Cons
- Short electric cable
- Not in the dishwasher
Here is a solid rice cooker, made to be used several times a week, whether it is for preparing rice or for steaming. In fact, this Russell Hobbs appliance is sold with a steam basket as well as a measuring glass and a plastic spoon. It is possible to have an additional recipe booklet, but the language of the booklet seems to vary depending on the retailer …
The bowl is very large, it has a maximum capacity of 3.3 liters, which makes it possible to make 1.8 liters of rice (i.e. 10 portions of 180 g). However, it is also effective for preparing rice for one person. It is sometimes said that the water full of starch overflows and we want to remind you, that in a pressure cooker, the rice should always be properly washed, that is to say, rinse until transparent water is obtained. Without it, overflows are mandatory. The other trick is to put the steamer inside, but upside down.
It is a device which is relatively compact compared to the size of its tank. Thus its maximum diameter is 28 cm and it is 23 cm high. In addition, it weighs only 2.7 kg . On the other hand, the electric cable is a little short and you have to either move the device as close as possible to a socket, or provide an extension cord. The exterior is in brushed steel and can be cleaned with a sponge and a little soap. For removable parts, many users do not recommend the dishwasher. Too bad.
Tristar RK-6126
Pros
- Very stable
- Up to 5 portions of rice
- Non-stick pan
- Automatic keep warm
- Sleek design
Cons
- No steam basket
Here it is a rice cooker for a family of 3 to 5 people . This Tristar model has a tank with a capacity of one liter, i.e. a maximum of 5 portions of rice.
This is a fairly elegant model , giving an impression of high-end (while still remaining a classic cheap product, don’t be surprised). Thus it has a stainless steel frame , non-slip feet offering very good stability and a glass cover. The pan is removable and has a non-stick coating. A spatula is available to serve the rice without damaging the bottom. There is also a cup for measuring quantities. On the other hand there is nothing for steaming, it is not planned.
The format is relatively compact . Thus the device measures 24x28x20 cm and it weighs only 1.2 kg . It is therefore really easy to take it out and put it away between each use. After plugging it in, you have to start by pressing the on button and then only position the button on the front on cooking. When the rice (or any other cereal) is ready, this button changes position automatically and the cooker goes into keep-warm mode (a temperature between 70-75 °). All that remains is to sit down to eat.
LIVOO DOC111
The Livoo Doc 111 cooker is a simple and ultra efficient appliance . It is all white with a removable dark gray aluminum bowl and a transparent cover . Four feet give it good stability while protecting the surface on which the cooker is installed. The exterior can be cleaned with a wipe of a sponge, while the lid and tub can be placed in the dishwasher.
The capacity of the tank is 1.5 liters , which makes it possible to make a lot of rice in one go (and to freeze it in portions like the Japanese do?). There is a single button with a keep warm or cook position. Impossible to really go wrong.
A serving spatula and a tumbler are also included. You really have to use the spatula or in any case avoid any metal spoon to protect the non-stick coating and allow long-term use of this cooker.
Russell Hobbs 27020-56
Here is a Russell Hobbs rice cooker designed for people who live alone or with two people. It is rare and it is highly appreciated. Thus the maximum capacity is 400 grams , while we consider that a portion of 200 grams is needed for one person. You should know that large cookers rarely allow you to make good rice when you want a single serving.
It is also a practical device . It is on four stable and non-slip feet. There are two handles. The cover is in transparent glass and it is possible to put it directly on the device and not to get cluttered (another well thought out detail for those who have a small kitchen).
When the rice is ready, the appliance goes directly to keep warm , as long as necessary, without drying out, without snagging the food. It is an indicator light that lets you know if the appliance is cooking or keeping warm. Finally, on the maintenance side, all the removable parts are dishwasher safe.
SEVERIN RK 2425
This is a two-in-one device that is both a rice cooker and a steamer. Indeed, a steam tank is included in the accessories. There is also a spatula and a holder for it is provided directly on the device.
The specificity of this model is that the cover opens on the back and is attached to the device. We therefore do not really need to take care of it (as on a Cookeo device from Moulinex for example). We keep our hands free (as well as the work surface) to serve the different plates, whether you have prepared rice for two or for ten people.
It is a rice cooker effect with a large capacity ( about 3 liters ). If it is quite bulky (it is a cylinder with a diameter of 27 cm and a height of 28.5 cm), it weighs only 2.7 kg , which makes it easy to take it out and put it away with each use . On the other hand, to take full advantage of the non-stick coating , you must never forget to wash the rice before putting it in the bowl.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How to use a rice cooker?
If the electric rice cooker for the first time may seem intimidating or even a little time consuming, then it is difficult to return to the rice in the pan afterwards. You have to start by pouring the desired quantity of rice into the bowl (possibly with the glass offered with the machine or your favorite glass). Then you have to wash the rice.
To do this, cover it with water and mix well. Discard the water (with a colander) and wash the rice again. In general, it should be done 3 or 4 times so that the water is again translucent. Then use the starting glass to add about 2 glasses of water to a glass of rice, dosage valid for Pros rice. Close the lid, press cook and you’re done.
Rice cooker, how to dose?
This is kind of the big question and everyone has their technique. Conventionally, we say 2 glasses of water for a glass of rice. And we consider that a large glass (30 cl) is suitable for two people if the rice is just the accompaniment. But if you are making round rice (known as sushi rice), then you normally need 1.5 glasses of water for 1 glass of rice.
In addition, if you want to give your rice time to swell, add only 1.5 glasses to 1, then wait 10 minutes before cooking. Finally, last possible solution, place the rice at the bottom of the tank and add water so that the water exceeds the equivalent of a phalanx (yes it is approximate, but this is how a lot of cooking…).
Which is better: the rice in the cooker or the rice in the casserole?
Difficult to choose, because there is a rather personal part. For anything that is round rice and even for rices that just serve as an accompaniment as seen in cooking from China or Japan, the rice cooker is perfect. It is a question of obtaining a very compact rice.
On the other hand, if you want to prepare basmati rice and make sure that each grain of rice stands out from the others, then it is better to opt for casserole rice. Now if your time in the kitchen is the priority, opt for a cooker that does everything unattended.
What to choose: Cookeo or rice cooker?
Be careful, here you are asking us to compare the incomparable. A Cookeo is a device that allows you to cook under pressure, simmer, brown, steam, etc. There is a delayed start and a keep warm, not to mention many pre-programmed recipes. It is therefore a multicooker. On the other hand for the preparation of rice, it is not exceptional.
The rice cooker is used to make rice. Technically that’s it. It is indeed possible in reality to prepare lentils or to choose a device with a steamer basket, but the versatility remains limited. We can therefore have both devices at home, because one does not replace the other.
Conclusion: which rice cooker to choose in our opinion?
It’s hard to remember just one without knowing who will be using it … However if we had to try to find just one for the greatest number of people, we would opt for the Cuisinart CRC800E rice cooker , if only for the quality and durability of Cuisinart products.
Tefal Classic 2 RK102811 is a cheaper alternative that will require you to choose between rice and steam (the two cannot be prepared at the same time). On the other hand, it is a beautiful device. Finally, the cheapest that we have chosen is a Russell Hobbs 19750-56 rice cooker, which is also a steamer.
