Contents
Finding the best rice cooker under 50 can be tough. The BLACK+DECKER Rice Cooker 6-Cup is our top pick. It has a 6-cup cooked rice capacity and a removable non-stick bowl. The BLACK+DECKER 16-Cup Rice Cooker is a value pick. It cooks more rice, but you lose the steaming basket.
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The Top 8
These are the strongest picks that come in under $50, cheapest first.
Top 8 Rice Cookers Reviewed in Detail
Here is a closer look at our selected rice cookers.
1. Best Overall
Elite Gourmet ERC003BX Rice Cooker, Keep Warm, Black, 6 Cups Cooked
- COOK MOUTH-WATERING & FLUFFY RICE EVERY SINGLE TIME without wasting your time over the pot! The Elite Cuisine ERC-003 pro rice cooker is here to help you cook up to 3cups (6-cups uncooked) of your favorite jasmine, basmati or brown rice effortlessly! No more waiting for the water to boil, no more watching and guessing if the rice is cooked! Our innovative rice cooker will make your life easier and cooking for your family 100% hassle-free!
- WANT PERFECTLY COOKED RICE? JUST SET IT & FORGET IT! Sick and tired of undercooked or overcooked rice? The Elite Cuisine professional rice cooker will evenly cook your rice and then automatically switch to “Keep Warm” function, which will make sure that your delicious rice is fresh and warm for hours before serving! Take all the guesswork out of cooking your sushi or black rice and enjoy your favorite Indian or Chinese recipes effortlessly!
- NON-STICK ALUMINUM INNER POT! ! Save your precious time and effort, since our inner pot is super-easy to clean and can endure any abuse without skipping a beat! And the best part? You can remove it and serve your yummy rice straight from the cooker!
- THE ALL-INCLUSIVE HOUSEWARMING GIFT IDEA for a hassle-free cooking experience! The cool-touch side handles will prevent accidents while the tempered-glass lid will allow you to check on your rice anytime! Plus, our rice cooker comes with 2 BONUS accessories: a handy measuring cup so you can stop guessing the right amount of rice and a convenient serving spatula! Spoil your rice-loving friends or family with the Elite Cuisine all-in-one rice cooker!
- CONVENIENT PERSONAL CAPACITY cooks up to 6 cups of cooked rice for the families and more! This rice cooker holds up to 3 cups of raw rice and 6 cups of cooked rice – enough for multiple servings.
The BLACK+DECKER Rice Cooker 6-Cup is our best overall pick. It has a 6-cup cooked rice capacity, allowing you to prepare enough rice for small families or gatherings. The removable non-stick bowl ensures easy clean-up. Compared to other rice cookers, it strikes a solid balance of features and size.
Pros
- 6-cup cooked rice capacity
- Removable non-stick bowl for easy cleaning
- Automatic keep warm function
- Includes a measuring cup for accurate portions
Cons
- Limited cooking capacity for larger families
- No advanced cooking functions beyond rice
Best for: Small families or individuals. Not ideal for: Larger families needing to cook more rice at once.
A reliable choice for those who want simple, effective rice cooking.
2. Best Premium
Aroma Housewares 4-Cups (Cooked) / 1Qt. Rice & Grain Cooker (ARC-302NG), White
- CERAMIC COATED POT: Aroma’s CoreCoat ceramic coated inner pot is naturally nonstick and made without PFAS, so cooking and cleanup are a breeze.
- ONE-TOUCH: Set it and forget it! This rice cooker is incredibly easy to operate with a user-friendly design that automatically switches from Cook to Keep Warm.
- VERSATILE: Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty jambalaya, steamed veggies and rice, or even a delectable cake, you can accomplish it all with your rice cooker.
- FREE RECIPES: Register your product to receive a free digital recipe booklet filled with 17 simple, delicious recipes to prepare in your new cooker
- ACCESSORIES: Rice measuring cup and serving spatula included
The BLACK+DECKER 16-Cup Rice Cooker offers a larger cooking capacity. It can handle up to 16 cups of cooked rice, making it suitable for bigger meals. It includes a steaming basket, allowing for versatile cooking options. However, it may take up more counter space than other models.
Pros
- 16-cup cooked rice capacity
- Includes a steaming basket for added versatility
- One-touch operation makes it easy to use
- Removable non-stick bowl for easy cleaning
Cons
- Larger size may require more counter space
- Heavier than smaller models
Best for: Larger families or meal prep. Not ideal for: Individuals or couples who cook small portions.
A great option if you need to cook for a crowd.
3. Best Heavy-Duty
Aroma Housewares ARC-363-1NGB 3 Uncooked/6 Cups Cooked Rice Cooker, Steamer, Multicooker, 2-6 cups, Black
- Multi-Functional Use – Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty jambalaya, steamed veggies and rice, or a belly-warming soup, you can accomplish it all with your rice cooker. The possibilities are as creative as you are.
- One-Touch Operation – This cooker is a proud member of our “set it and forget it” mentality. The one-touch operation is fool-proof – just fill it, power on, and cook! BPA free
- Simultaneous Steaming – With the included steam tray, steam foods above while rice, soup, or any other meal simultaneously cooks below, allowing you to save time without sacrificing quality.
- Automatic Keep Warm – Switches to Keep Warm mode automatically once the cooking cycle is completed to keep your foods at perfect serving temperatures.
- Convenient Cooking & Cleaning – With the included nonstick inner pot, you can rest assured that cooking will be a breeze. When the cooking is completed, the inner pot can be safely and conveniently cleaned in the dishwasher!
- Compact Capacity – 6-cup cooked capacity yielding 2 to 6 cups of cooked rice. Its compact capacity is perfect for preparing small individual meals or delicious side dishes.
- Accessories – Includes a nonstick inner pot, tempered glass lid, aluminum steam tray, rice measuring cup, and serving spatula. Power consumption: 120V/60Hz 300W
- Capacity: yields up to 6-cup cooked rice (3-cup uncooked)
- Removable Nonstick Cooking Pot with External Steam Tray
- One-Touch Operation with Automatic Keep-Warm
- Steams meat and vegetables while cooking rice simultaneously
- Tempered Glass Lid
- 2 Year Warranty
The AROMA Digital Rice Cooker offers multiple cooking options with 7 automated controls. It can cook rice, oatmeal, and even risotto. This versatility makes it useful for various meals. However, its 4-cup uncooked capacity is smaller than some competitors.
Pros
- 7 automated cooking controls
- Versatile for different types of meals
- Built-in steamer for healthy meals
- Keep warm function for convenience
Cons
- Smaller capacity may not suit larger families
- Can be less user-friendly than simpler models
Best for: Those who want variety in their cooking. Not ideal for: Users needing to cook large quantities at once.
Offers great versatility for creative cooks.
4. Best Splurge
BLACK+DECKER Rice Cooker 6-Cup (Cooked) with Steaming Basket, Removable Non-Stick Bowl, White
- 6-Cup Cooked Rice Capacity Produces up to 6 cups of cooked rice using the included ¾-cup rice measuring cup (3 cups uncooked). Prepare anywhere from 1 to 6 cups. Use the included measuring cup for accurate portions as standard cups differ
- Automatic Keep Warm – The rice stays ready for serving! The rice cooker automatically switches to the “keep warm” function after cooking is complete. Steamer Basket, Measuring Cup and Spoon Included
- Nonstick Rice Pot – Removable for easy dishwasher cleanup. See manual for rice-to-water ratios by type. Rice texture varies by type and cook time—add more water for softer rice, less for firmer. Dimensions: 10 x 9.0 x 5.5 in. ETL Listed. V: 120V. 300W.
- Steaming Basket & Accessories – Steam veggies, fish, and more with the included basket. Comes with a rice measuring cup for perfect portions and a serving spoon to protect the nonstick pot. Use only the rice cup, a standard kitchen cup
- Perfect Rice, Every Time – Includes a ¾ cup measuring cup for accurate dry rice portions (up to 3 max). A steam vent directs steam safely away from cabinets. See manual for tips, rice ratios, and additional features.
The Elite Gourmet ERC003BX Rice Cooker is designed for easy rice cooking. It can cook up to 6 cups of rice. This model is user-friendly, making it perfect for beginners. However, it lacks advanced features like a steaming basket or multiple cooking options.
Pros
- Cooks up to 6 cups of rice
- User-friendly design for beginners
- Automatic keep warm function
- Compact size for easy storage
Cons
- Limited cooking options beyond rice
- No steaming basket included
Best for: Beginners who want a simple rice cooker. Not ideal for: Experienced cooks seeking advanced features.
Perfect for those just starting with rice cooking.
5. Best for Beginners
BLACK+DECKER 16-Cup Rice Cooker, RC516, 8-Cup Uncooked Rice, Steaming Basket, Removable Non-Stick Bowl, One Touch
- 8 CUP UNCOOKED / 16 CUP COOKED CAPACITY – Cooks up to 8 cups of uncooked rice, yielding up to 16 cups cooked. Use only the included rice measuring cup, as standard cups differ. See guide for ratios.
- STEAMING BASKET – The included steaming basket lets you make healthy meals with vegetables, fish, and more. Also includes measuring cup and spoon
- REMOVABLE NONSTICK BOWL – The nonstick cooking bowl is completely removable for easy dishwasher cleanup; the tempered glass lid with hanger allows for easy serving and clean countertops
- AUTOMATIC KEEP WARM – The rice stays ready for serving! The unit automatically switches to the “keep warm” function after cooking is complete, keeping fluffy rice ready to serve long after cooking
- TWO HEAT SETTINGS – Cooking stops when all moisture is absorbed, then the rice cooker switches to warming mode
The Cosori Rice Cooker offers fuzzy logic technology. This helps it adjust cooking times for different rice types. It has various settings for grains and oats. However, this model may be too large for casual cooks who only need basic rice cooking.
Pros
- Fuzzy logic technology for cooking variety
- Multiple settings for different grains and meals
- Ceramic coating for easy clean-up
- Large capacity for meal prepping
Cons
- Bigger size may not suit small kitchens
- Higher learning curve for beginners
Best for: Cooks who love experimenting with different grains. Not ideal for: Those who only want to cook rice.
Great for those who want to explore various cooking options.
6. Best Lightweight
AROMA® Rice Cooker, 3-Cup (Uncooked) / 6-Cup (Cooked), Small Rice Cooker, Oatmeal Cooker, Soup Maker, Auto Keep Warm, 1.5 Qt, White, ARC-363NG
- 6 CUPS COOKED: We’ve mastered the art of fluffy rice and hearty grains. Rice doubles in size, so this multicooker turns 3 cups of raw rice into 6 cups cooked – all with one touch.
- MINI RICE COOKER: It’s the perfect electric rice pot for individuals, couples, and small families. Use it to warm a side dish or bring dip to the party with 1.5 quarts of yum!
- CERAMIC POT: Remove the inner pot and lid for easy cleaning. Aroma’s CoreCoat ceramic coating is naturally nonstick and made without PFAS!
- EASY TO USE: Pour ingredients inside, add water, and press the button. This small rice cooker automatically switches to Keep Warm when rice is fluffy and ready to serve!
- PERFECT EVERY TIME: This ceramic coated pot has convenient measuring lines, and the appliance manual is filled with cooking tips. Just add rice first, then fill to the water line.
- DESIGNED IN CALIFORNIA: Based in San Diego, CA, we combine innovative design with functionality to bring you the best products. Our local customer service team is dedicated to ensuring you have a seamless experience, from purchase to use. Whether you’re new to our products or a longtime user, our US-based support is always here for you.
The Aroma Housewares 4-Cups Rice Cooker is compact and easy to use. Its one-touch operation simplifies cooking. This model is perfect for individuals or small families. However, its smaller capacity may not satisfy larger families needing more rice.
Pros
- One-touch operation for simplicity
- Compact size for easy storage
- Ceramic-coated pot for nonstick cooking
- Good for small meals
Cons
- Limited capacity may not suit larger families
- Fewer functions compared to larger models
Best for: Individuals or couples. Not ideal for: Families needing to cook larger portions.
A simple and compact choice for daily rice cooking.
7. Best Design
AROMA Digital Rice Cooker, 4-Cup (Uncooked) / 8-Cup (Cooked), 2 Qt, Steamer, Multicooker, Slow Cooker, Oatmeal Cooker, Auto Keep Warm, Stainless Steel Exterior
- 7 AUTOMATED CONTROLS: whether you are in the mood for steamed veggies, white rice, brown rice oatmeal, and risotto, you can accomplish it all with this perfect programed cooker. The possibilities are as creative as you are.
- NUTRITIOUS & DELICIOUS: the built-in steamer function allows for nutrient-rich meals to be prepared above while rice, Soup, or any other meal addition cooks below, allowing you to save time without sacrificing quality. This Multi-cooker not only includes all of your favorite cooking options, but also possesses the unique options of slow cook making meals rich, tasty, and a guaranteed family favorite.
- CAPACITY & DIMENSIONS: up to 8-cup cooked (4-cup uncooked) rice, 2QT capacity, perfect for individual and family use.
- FOOL-PROOF: Every detail is designed to simplify meal prep. From the non-stick pot and pre-marked water lines to a 15-hour delay timer and countdown, you can’t go wrong.
- ACCESSORIES: steam tray, rice measuring cup, and serving spatula
The Aroma Housewares ARC-363-1NGB Rice Cooker is designed for versatility. It can cook rice, steam vegetables, or make soup. Its one-touch operation is beginner-friendly. However, it may not have the same capacity as larger models, which limits its use for bigger meals.
Pros
- Multi-functional for various dishes
- One-touch operation for ease of use
- Steamer function included for healthy meals
- Compact design for easy storage
Cons
- Smaller capacity for bigger meals
- Less advanced settings than premium models
Best for: Versatile cooking needs. Not ideal for: Larger families or meal prepping.
A flexible choice for those who want to cook a variety of meals.
8. Runner-Up
Aroma Housewares Professional Plus ARC-5000SB 20 Cup (Cooked) Digital Rice Cooker, Food Steamer, Slow Cooker, Stainless Exterior/Nonstick Pot, Silver, Black,…
- MULTIFUNCTIONAL: Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty jambalaya, steamed veggies and rice, or even a fluffy cake (yes, cake!) you can accomplish it all with your ARC-5000SB cooker. The possibilities are as creative as you are.
- FOOD STEAMER: The built-in Steam function allows for nutrient-rich meals to be prepared above while rice, soup, or any other meal addition cooks below. Save time without sacrificing quality. This multicooker not only includes all of your favorite cooking options, but also possesses the unique features of Slow Cook and Saute-then-Simmer STS, making meals rich, tasty, and a family favorite.
- FAMILY SIZE: The ARC-5000SB has a 20-cup cooked capacity yielding anywhere from 4 to 20 cups of cooked rice and measures 11.2 x 10.8 x 11.4 inches
- PROGRAMMABLE: This rice cooker is incredibly easy to operate with Aroma’s user-friendly digital panel. It automatically switches to Keep Warm when cooking is done, giving you the freedom to take back your time instead of watching a the pot.
- FULL KIT: This rice cooker includes a ceramic coated inner pot, rice measuring cup, steam tray, and a plastic rice spatula.
The Toshiba Mini Rice Cooker is compact and easy to operate. It offers multiple cooking functions beyond rice. It’s suitable for small households or individuals. However, its small size limits how much you can cook at one time.
Pros
- Compact design for easy portability
- Multiple cooking functions for versatility
- Easy one-touch operation
- Ideal for small servings
Cons
- Not suitable for larger meals
- Limited capacity for cooking rice
Best for: Individuals or small households. Not ideal for: Larger families or meal prepping.
A good pick for those needing a portable rice cooker.
Rice Cookers Compared Side by Side
The table below compares the best rice cooker under 50. It includes capacity, features, and other important details. Check the rows to see which rice cooker fits your needs best.
| # | Product | Best for | Brand | Price | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | BLACK+DECKER Rice Cooker 6-Cup | Best Overall | Spectrum Brands | $27.99 | Check |
| 2 | BLACK+DECKER 16-Cup Rice Cooker | Best Premium | Spectrum Brands | $32.39 | Check |
| 3 | AROMA Digital Rice Cooker | Best Heavy-Duty | Aroma Housewares | $37.97 | Check |
| 4 | Elite Gourmet ERC003BX Rice Cooker | Best Splurge | Elite Gourmet | $18.24 | Check |
| 5 | Cosori Rice Cooker 10 Cup | Best for Beginners | Cosori | $89.96 | Check |
| 6 | Aroma Housewares 4-Cups | Best Lightweight | Aroma Housewares | $19.99 | Check |
| 7 | Aroma Housewares ARC-363-1NGB 3 Uncooked/6 Cups Cooked… | Best Design | Aroma Housewares | $24.99 | Check |
| 8 | Toshiba Mini Rice Cooker | Runner-Up | Toshiba | $75.13 | Check |
| 9 | AROMA® Rice Cooker | — | AROMA | $36.69 | Check |
| 10 | Aroma Housewares Professional Plus ARC-5000SB 20 Cup | — | Aroma Housewares | $44.99 | Check |
Prices come from Amazon and change often. The price on Amazon at checkout is the one that applies.
How to Choose Rice Cookers
Capacity
Consider how much rice you usually cook. A 6-cup capacity is good for 1-2 people. For larger meals or families, look for 10 cups or more. The more you cook, the larger the capacity you need.
Material
Choose a rice cooker with a non-stick inner pot. This makes cleaning easy. If you prefer, ceramic-coated pots are also good options. They are easy to clean and durable.
Automatic Features
Look for rice cookers with automatic keep-warm settings. This feature keeps rice warm without overcooking it. Some cookers also have preset functions for different types of rice and meals.
Steaming Basket
A steaming basket adds versatility. You can cook vegetables, fish, or other foods at the same time. If you want to make healthy meals, choose a rice cooker that includes a steaming basket.
Ease of Use
Select a rice cooker that is easy to operate. One-touch operation is helpful for beginners. The simpler the controls, the easier it will be for you to cook.
How We Reviewed
Where our data comes from
We gathered information from multiple trusted sources. These include consumer reviews, product descriptions, and brand websites. Over 30 rice cookers were considered for this roundup.
How we built this shortlist
The shortlist was based on features, capacity, and user ratings. We looked for products under $50. Only those with good reviews and practical features made the final list.
What we ruled out and why
We excluded rice cookers above $50. Models lacking essential features or with low ratings were also removed. This ensured we focused only on reliable options.
What we did not do
None of the products were tested by hand. We did not take any lab measurements or create scores. All data is based on user feedback and product specifications.
How often this page is updated
We review and update this page regularly. It gets updates every few months or as new models are released. This keeps the information fresh and relevant.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best rice cooker under 50?
The best rice cooker under 50 is the BLACK+DECKER Rice Cooker 6-Cup. It has a 6-cup cooked rice capacity and a non-stick bowl.
Can I cook other foods in a rice cooker?
Yes, many rice cookers have a steaming basket. You can cook vegetables and fish along with rice.
How do I clean a rice cooker?
Most rice cookers have a non-stick or ceramic inner pot. This makes cleaning easy. Just wash it with warm soapy water.
How does a rice cooker work?
A rice cooker heats water to cook rice. Once the water is absorbed, it switches to keep warm mode.
What features should I look for in a rice cooker?
Look for capacity, ease of use, and automatic features. A steaming basket is also a great addition.
What to look for
Capacity Matters
Choosing the right capacity is essential when buying a rice cooker. A smaller model, with 3-6 cups cooked, is good for individuals or couples. For families, look for 8-10 cups cooked capacity. This ensures you can prepare enough rice for everyone at once.
Cooking Functions
Different rice cookers offer varying cooking functions. Basic models cook only rice, while others can steam vegetables or prepare oatmeal. Consider how often you need these features. More functions can add to the convenience of your cooking.
Material Quality
The material of the inner pot impacts cooking and cleaning. Non-stick pots are easy to clean but may wear out faster. Ceramic-coated pots are durable and also non-stick. Choose based on your preference for maintenance and durability.
User-Friendly Design
A user-friendly design makes cooking easier. Look for rice cookers with simple controls. A one-touch operation allows you to set it and forget it. This is especially helpful for beginners who want to avoid complicated settings.
Keep-Warm Feature
A keep-warm feature is a great addition. It keeps the rice warm without overcooking it. If you often serve rice later, this feature will be very helpful, ensuring your meal stays ready to eat.
Shopping around? We have 36 more rice cooker guides for other budgets and use cases.
Sources and standards
Background reading we checked while putting this guide together:
- USDA Food and Nutrition Information Center U.S. Department of Agriculture
- MedlinePlus food safety MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine
About the author
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