Imagine perfectly fluffy, restaurant-quality rice every single time, without the guesswork. Does that sound like a dream when you’re trying to stick to a tight budget? Cooking rice on the stovetop can often lead to burnt bottoms or sticky messes, especially when you’re juggling other dinner preparations. It’s frustrating when you want delicious results without breaking the bank.
Finding a rice cooker under $50 seems simple, but the market is flooded with confusing models. You worry about quality dropping when the price is low. Will it last? Will it actually cook rice well? These budget-friendly appliances need to deliver reliability and great performance, and sorting through the noise takes valuable time.
This guide cuts through the clutter. We have tested and selected the best rice cookers that cost less than fifty dollars. You will learn exactly which models offer the best value, durability, and cooking performance for your money. Stop wasting time scrolling through endless reviews.
Ready to upgrade your kitchen convenience without emptying your wallet? Let’s dive into the top contenders for the best rice cooker under $50.
Top Rice Cooker Under $50 Recommendations
- Easy-to-use programmable digital controls complete with an automatic Keep Warm mode after each cycle
- An array of preset functions for every kind of meal: White Rice, Brown Rice, Steam, Flash Rice
- Steam meat, vegetables and more with the provided Steam Tray all while rice cooks below
- Perfectly prepares 2 to 8 cups of any variety of cooked rice or grains
- Sensor Logic Technology for delicious, fluffy rice and grains every time - automatically controls the internal temperature throughout the cooking cycle for optimal texture and flavor
- 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.
- ENJOY MAXIMUM COOKING VERSATILITY FROM BREAKFAST TO DINNER. Prepare a practically endless variety of dishes with this one multi-function cooker. Make rice, whole grains and hot cereal, or steam seafood, eggs, vegetables and more
- PREPARE MEALS FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY: The removable pot of the Hamilton Beach rice cooker steamer has a PFAS-free ceramic nonstick coating and is large enough to feed your whole family — it fits up to 8 cups of cooked rice.*
- ONE-TOUCH COOKING WITH PREPROGRAMMED OPTIONS: Simply press the right button to perfectly cook white rice, whole grains or hot cereal. A countdown timer shows you how much time is left. The rice cooker automatically switches to warm when cooking is complete
- VERSATILE 2-IN-1 STEAM/RINSING BASKET: The versatile steam basket on the electric rice cooker doubles as a colander. It's great for rinsing rice or grains before cooking, or use it to steam everything from salmon to brussels sprouts as your rice cooks
- PERFECT FOR ONE-POT MEALS. Steam seafood or vegetables while rice cooks below for fast, easy one-pot meals. Great for making homemade fried rice, shrimp with rice and more.
- SMALL & SMART: This 8-cup rice cooker is the perfect size for individuals, couples, and small families. Get all the digital features you love with a compact, space-saving pot.
- 6 MODES: Fluffy white and brown rice is just the beginning. This electric rice cooker turns into a 2-quart slow cooker and healthy food steamer with the touch of a button.
- PRO SENSORS: Sensor Logic Technology tracks moisture and adjusts heat while it cooks. Sauté-then-Simmer brings out the best flavor with low heat when you close the lid.
- STEAM TRAY: Place the BPA-free steam basket inside your pot for two-in-one cooking. The ‘steam’ mode works on its own, and you can steam food while grains cook below.
- 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.
- 6-Cup Cooked Rice Capacity – Yields up to 6 cups of cooked rice using 3 included rice measuring cups (¾ cup each). Prepare as little as 1 cup or up to 6. Always use the included measuring cup for accurate portions—standard cups are not the same.
- 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—never 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.
- Multi-Functional Use – Whether you are 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.
- Nutritious & Delicious – The built-in steam 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 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.
- Capacity & Dimensions – 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
- User-friendly Programming –The cooker is incredibly simple to operate using our user-friendly digital panel that switches to keep warm automatically once cooking is finished allowing you the freedom to take back your time instead of worrying while you cook.
- Accessories – This rice cooker includes a non-stick inner pot, rice measuring cup, steam tray, and a plastic rice spatula. "
- Factory Refurbished
- Easily prepares cups of any variety of cooked rice
- Steams meat and vegetables while rice cooks below; Stainless steel rice cooker and steamer is ideal for roasts, soups, jambalaya, and much more
- Easy-to-use, programmable digital controls with automatic keep-warm and white rice, brown rice, steam, and slow-cook functions; Programmable rice cooker has a 15-hour delay timer for flexible meal planning
- Comes with 1-Year Refurbished Warranty
- Multifunctional - Use-6 digital cooking programs including white rice, brown rice, steam, slow cook, quinoa and oatmeal functions.
- Compact Capacity -8 cup cooked (2 Qt) capacity yields up to 8 cups of cooked rice. Its space saving design is perfect for preparing small meals or tasty sides.
- Effortless Operation - The Multi Use Programmable Rice Cooker is user friendly with digital panel & LED display, features 6 One-Touch Programs, automatically switches to keep warm for 12 hours and 12 hour delay timer is designed for flexible meal planning.
- Easy to Clean - Stainless steel external housing is easy to wipe clean. With the non-stick coating, the cleaning of the inner pot is like a breeze. The inner pot and all of the included accessories are dishwasher safe.
- Safety Features - Built-in Overheating Protection. Made of BPA-Free Food Grade Material. Cool touch handle ensures your safety when you open the cooker.
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Scoring a Great Rice Cooker Under $50
Finding a fantastic rice cooker without breaking the bank is totally possible! This guide helps you pick the best budget-friendly cooker so you can enjoy perfect rice every time.
1. Key Features to Look For
When shopping for a rice cooker under $50, you need to focus on the essentials that deliver consistent results.
Capacity Matters
- Size: Most budget cookers range from 3 cups (uncooked) to 8 cups. A 3-cup model is great for one or two people. If you feed a family of four, aim for a 5-cup or 6-cup model.
- Don’t Overbuy: Buying a huge cooker you rarely fill often leads to uneven cooking at the bottom.
Simple Controls are Best
At this price point, look for straightforward operation. You want a simple “Cook” and “Keep Warm” switch or button. Fancy digital screens often cost extra and aren’t necessary for basic rice.
The Keep Warm Function
This feature is non-negotiable. After the rice cooks, the cooker should automatically switch to “Keep Warm.” This stops your rice from getting cold while you prepare other parts of your meal.
2. Important Materials in Budget Cookers
The materials used directly affect how long your cooker lasts and how easy it is to clean.
The Inner Pot
Most affordable cookers use an aluminum inner pot. This heats up quickly. However, the most important thing is the **non-stick coating**. Make sure this coating is durable. A cheap, thin coating will scratch easily, making cleanup hard and potentially causing rice to stick.
The Outer Body
Expect the outer body to be made of plastic or thin stainless steel. Plastic is common and keeps the cost down. Just ensure the plastic feels sturdy and doesn’t wobble when you move it.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Even in the budget range, some things separate a good cooker from a mediocre one.
Heating Element Quality
A good budget cooker uses a simple, reliable heating plate at the bottom. If the heating element is weak, the rice might burn on the bottom before the top is fully cooked. Read reviews to see if users complain about burning.
Lid Design
A sealed, simple lid is better than a flimsy one. Steam needs to escape correctly, but you also want the lid to lock in heat. Some models include a small vent hole; this is usually fine for basic white rice.
Included Accessories
Good models include a measuring cup and a plastic rice paddle (spoon). These small additions save you money and ensure you use the right amount of water.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you plan to use your cooker.
Simple Meal Prep
If you just need plain white or brown rice a few times a week, a basic $30 model works perfectly. You set it, forget it, and come back to hot rice.
Portability
Smaller, lighter cookers are great for dorm rooms or small apartments. They do not take up much counter space. If you plan to move it often, look for one with a sturdy, built-in handle.
Cleaning Time
Since you are saving money, you might sacrifice some advanced features. Expect to hand-wash the inner pot. Avoid putting the inner pot in the dishwasher unless the manufacturer specifically says it is safe, as harsh detergents ruin non-stick surfaces quickly.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Rice Cookers Under $50
Q: Can these cheap cookers cook brown rice?
A: Yes, most can. Brown rice takes longer. You might need to add a little extra water, and you must use the “Keep Warm” function longer after the cooking cycle finishes.
Q: Are rice cookers under $50 safe?
A: Generally, yes. They use simple thermostats. If they overheat, they automatically switch to “Keep Warm.” Always use the cooker on a flat, heat-safe surface.
Q: How long does it take to cook rice?
A: White rice usually takes 20 to 30 minutes. Brown rice takes closer to 40 to 50 minutes.
Q: Do I need to wash the inner pot before the first use?
A: Always wash the inner pot and the lid components with warm, soapy water before you cook anything the first time. This removes factory dust.
Q: What if my rice sticks to the bottom?
A: This usually means you used too little water or the non-stick coating is wearing out. Try adding one extra tablespoon of water next time.
Q: Can I cook oatmeal in a budget rice cooker?
A: Yes, oatmeal is a great use! Just make sure you use a lot of water because oatmeal expands greatly. Never fill the pot more than one-third full of dry oats and water combined.
Q: Is there a difference between a “rice cooker” and a “slow cooker”?
A: Yes. Rice cookers use high, consistent heat to boil water quickly. Slow cookers use very low heat over many hours. They are not the same thing.
Q: Do I need to use the included measuring cup?
A: Yes, it helps a lot. The cup that comes with the cooker is usually a specific size (often 180ml, not a standard US cup). Using it keeps your water-to-rice ratio correct.
Q: How do I clean the outside of the cooker?
A: Wipe the outside with a damp cloth. Never put the main cooker body into water, as this damages the electric parts.
Q: Why is the “Keep Warm” setting important?
A: It keeps the rice hot without burning it, allowing you to serve rice whenever you are ready, even if it is 30 minutes after cooking finished.
Hi, I’m Larry Fish, the mind behind MyGrinderGuide.com.. With a passion for all things kitchen appliances, I created this blog to share my hands-on experience and expert knowledge. Whether it’s helping you choose the right tools for your culinary adventures or offering tips to make your kitchen more efficient, I’m here to guide you. My goal is to make your time in the kitchen not only easier but also enjoyable! Welcome to my world of kitchen mastery!