Best Stainless Steel Rice Cooker To Buy In 2019 – Buying Guide And Rice Cookers Review

Stainless Steel Rice Cookers are one of the widely used utensils in every kitchen. With innovation and expanding technology, the variety on offer has diversified rapidly. We feature detailed reviews of some of the best stainless steel rice cookers in the market.

10 Of The Best Stainless Steel Rice Cookers For Your House


Of all the home or cooking appliances that come in perfectly handy while you are busy preparing breakfast or dinner in the kitchen, the stainless steel rice cooker is surely one of these.

At its name clearly suggests, a rice cooker is best placed for cooking boiled or steamed rice that is seamlessly fluffy. The most noticeable benefit of using an automatic rice cooker is that you can carry on with your daily activities instead of standing guard to supervise the cooking.


The appliance mechanically switches to ‘keep warm’ mode once the dish is prepared, and the preparation stays hot enough for serving for several hours.

 The best stainless steel rice cooker can be pressed into service not only for rustling up a dish of flawless steamed rice but also for preparing quinoa, polenta, chicken curry, taco soup, roasted pork, and what not. After going through this article, you’ll be able to pick and choose a stainless steel rice cooker that fulfills your specific cooking needs, preferences, and tastes. 

Product Comparison Table

Products

Price

Score

BLACK+DECKER 6 quart 11-in-1 Cooking Pot, Stainless Steel, Pressure Cooker, Slow Cooker, Multi-Cooker, PR100

Zojirushi NS-TSC10 5-1/2-Cup (Uncooked) Micom Rice Cooker and Warmer, 1.0-Liter

Tatung - TAC-11KN (UL) - 11 Cup Multi-Functional Stainless Steel Rice Cooker – Silver

Instant Pot DUO60 6 Qt 7-in-1 Multi-Use Programmable Pressure Cooker, Slow Cooker, Rice Cooker, Steamer, Sauté, Yogurt Maker and Warmer

Aroma Housewares ARC-914SBD 8-Cup (Cooked) Digital Cool-Touch Rice Cooke​r and Food Steamer, Stainless Steel

Zojirushi NHS-10 6-Cup (Uncooked) Rice Cooker/Steamer & Warmer, White

Cuisinart CRC-400 Rice Cooker, Stainless Steel, 4-Cup

Aroma Simply Stainless 3-Cup (Uncooked) 6-Cup (Cooked) Rice Cooker, White

Elite Cuisine 10 Cup Cooked (5 Cups Uncooked) Professional Rice Cooker with Stainless Steel Pot – ERC-2010

BLACK+DECKER 16-Cup Cooked/8-Cup Uncooked Rice Cooker and Food Steamer, White, RC516

Reviewing the Top 10 Products

1. BLACK+DECKER 6 quart 11-in-1 Cooking Pot, Stainless Steel, Pressure Cooker, Slow Cooker, Multi-Cooker, PR100

You bet you won’t get a more versatile rice cooker than the ‘BLACK+DECKER 6 quart 11-in-1 Cooking Pot, Stainless Steel, Pressure Cooker, Slow Cooker, Multi-Cooker’.

Equipped with multi-cooker functions (7 to be precise), you can rustle up white rice, brown rice, steaming rice topped with vegetables or chicken in minutes and serve them to your family or guests.

You can also take advantage of functionalities not generally associated with a pressure or rice cooker, like slow cooking using low or high heat, browning, stewing, and maintaining the warmth of the dishes.

Equipped with 9 advanced safety features, you’ll feel completely secure using this best stainless steel rice cooker from Black & Decker.

Pros

  • 7 pressure and 4 non-pressure cooking functions
  • Manually and automatically programmable (delay start timer and digital controls) meal preparations modes and features: convenient for novices
  • Dishwasher-safe non-stick cooking bowl
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    9 safety features makes the product perfectly secure to use
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    ‘Keep warm’ functionality
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    Rubberized feet help maintain the cooker’s balance on countertops and dinner tables
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    Comes with all essential accessories

Cons

  • 6-quart capacity not sufficient for a family of four
  • Information about some recipes in the cookbook are not correct
  • Browning cycle is not perfect
  • The exact amount of water required for stewing veggies or meats is not clearly specified

2. BLACK+DECKER 16-Cup Cooked/8-Cup Uncooked Rice Cooker and Food Steamer, White, RC516

Rustle up mouthwatering dishes and meals for family luncheons and dinners as well as for weekend parties and get-togethers, courtesy the RC516 Black and Decker rice cooker. You can cook up to 8 cups of rice grains which is equivalent to 16 cups of cooked rice.

 Additionally, you can prepare pasta, oatmeal, risotto, paella, and dishes using wheat, barley, rye, maize, and other grains and cereals. The cooking bowl is layered with a superior grade of non-sticky coat that stays even after multiple cooking and cleaning sessions. The steaming basket comes handy for preparing an extra meal using fish, chicken or vegetables.

Pros

  • Dual settings for initiating steaming and automatic switchover to ‘keep warm mode’
  • Cooks up to 16 cups of rice
  • Multifunctional cooker: capable of cooking and stewing various types of meals
  • The non-stick bowl is dishwasher safe and easily removable for convenient cleanup
  • Steaming basket, spoon, and measuring cup included
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    The lid made from tempered glass is also dishwasher safe and has a hole for allowing excess steam to escape

Cons

  • The cooker is ideal for making only small portions and hence cannot be used by a large family
  • There might be some spillover even if you pour a little more water with the rice
  • No automatic on/off switch

3. Aroma Simply Stainless 3-Cup (Uncooked) 6-Cup (Cooked) Rice Cooker, White

The Aroma Simply Stainless White Rice Cooker comes to your aid when you need to prepare 6 cups of perfectly fluffy rice.

 And you do not need to be a chef to cook lip smacking dishes-just pour the prescribed quantity of water to the rice grains, place the pot inside the cooker, and press the handle for turning on the appliance.

 Once the rice is done, the gadget automatically switches to the ‘warm’ mode. Rice measuring container and spatula is supplied with the product. The transparent lid constructed from toughened glass lets you monitor the cooking. 

Pros

  • Convenience of use
  • Very much affordable
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    Dishwasher safe
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    Apart from boiling rice, soups, omelets, oatmeal, pasta, and other grain dishes can be prepared
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    Compact size makes for easy storage in tight spaces
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    Durable and hardy 304-grade stainless steel
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    Auto keep-warm switchover
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    Very much affordable

Cons

  • Cannot be used for steaming: steaming basket is not supplied
  • There is no non-stick coating: rice grains may stick to the sides after boiling
  • Has to be disconnected from the wall outlet for switching it off
  • Not suitable for cooking brown rice
  • The pot is not 100% stainless steel as claimed by the manufacturer
  • Spillovers are experienced

4. Elite Cuisine 10 Cup Cooked (5 Cups Uncooked) Professional Rice Cooker with Stainless Steel Pot – ERC-2010

Prepare 10 cups of yummy jasmine, brown rice or basmati rice with the help of the best stainless rice cooker from Elite Cuisine.

 Automated switching to ‘keep warm’ mode relieves you from the hassle of having to stand guard so that the rice does not get overcooked or undercooked.

 The cooking pot has been crafted out of the best grade of surgical steel which ensures that the food items are healthy for consumption and the nutrition stays intact.

 The stainless steel construction ensures that it lasts for years and is easy to clean.

Pros

  • Durable and hardwearing construction: made out of 304-grade stainless steel
  • Can be used for cooking a variety of rice dishes
  • Automatic switchover to ‘keep warm’ mode: food stays hot enough several for hours
  • Cooking pot can be comfortably taken out for adding rice and water as well as cleaning
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    Side handles for picking and placing the cooker stays cool
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    Tempered glass cover for checking the cooking

Cons

  • The absence of a steaming basket means you may not be able to steam other food items simultaneously
  • The vent hole or opening on the lid is not large enough to let the steam bubbles escape
  • Keeping the rice in the ‘warm’ setting for too long could burn the grains

5. Cuisinart CRC-400 Rice Cooker, Stainless Steel, 4-Cup

If you’re looking for a performance-oriented rice cooker that will let you prepare an array of delectable dishes without burning a hole in your pocket, then check out the Cuisinart CRC-400 stainless steel rice cooker.

 The square-styled cooker is not only high on aesthetics but also allows you to cook rice, meat, and vegetable dishes in a jiffy.

 All parts of the cooker starting from the bowl to the steaming basket has been chiseled out of brushed stainless steel, according to it an extended shelf-life.

 The cooker mechanically switches to ‘warm’ setting after meal is cooked.

Pros

  • Brushed stainless steel construction with chrome-finished handles
  • Delivers up to 7 cups of steamed/cooked rice
  • Tempered glass cover for keeping watch over what’s cooking
  • Indicator lights for ‘cook’ and ‘warm’ settings
  • Vent on lid for allowing the excess steam bubbles to escape
  • Sturdy steaming pot which is easy to clean
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    Accessories provided are measuring cup and serving ladle

Cons

  • There is no turn-off switch, so you’ll have to unplug each time after use
  • The cooker is prone to switching to ‘keep warm’ mode even when the rice has not been done perfectly
  • Steam does not properly escape out of the vent when cooker is used to max capacity

6. Instant Pot DUO60 6 Qt 7-in-1 Multi-Use Programmable Pressure Cooker, Slow Cooker, Rice Cooker, Steamer, Sauté, Yogurt Maker and Warmer

The DUO60 6 Qt 7-in-1 Multi-Use Programmable Pressure Cooker, Slow Cooker, Rice Cooker, Steamer, Sauté, Yogurt Maker and Warmer from Instant Pot definitely qualifies for the best of the best stainless steel rice cookear.

This kitchen appliance comes with 14 distinct and different smart cooking programs including rice, multigrain, soup, meat, beans, and poultry.

 The appliance functions as a 7-in-1 cooker performing as a yogurt maker, sauté, steamer, warmer, rice cooker, slow and pressure cooker.

Food grade stainless steel ensures food is safe and healthy to consume. Heat distribution is uniform owing to the 3-layered base and hermetic sealing makes sure flavors stay intact.

Pr​os

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    Many accessories included: recipe booklet, condensation collector, measuring cup, and stainless steel rack to name a few
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    10 UL and ULC-approved safety mechanisms for total security during cooking
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    Cooking pot made of 18/8 grade stainless steel that is durable and does not react with food
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    14 smart cooking programs
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    Combines the functions of 7 cooking appliances
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    Equipped with microprocessor technology for ensuring best cooking results

Cons

  • Trying to open the lid by turning it anti-clock wise before the entire pressure has been released could turn out to be risky
  • Too many features and functionalities could befuddle someone who is not used to cooking regularly
  • Very expensive by rice cooker standards

7. Zojirushi NHS-10 6-Cup (Uncooked) Rice Cooker/Steamer & Warmer, White

The Zojirushi NHS-10 easily qualifies for the ‘best stainless steel rice cooker’ tag as it lets the homemaker boil and/or steam 6 cups of raw rice for a four-member family almost effortlessly.

 This rice cooker from Zojirushi comes with a non-stick cooking bowl, steaming tray made of stainless steel, and a transparent glass lid.

The handles on the sides stay cool enabling you to hold the appliance securely scooping out food. Spatula and measuring cup are provided for convenience in taking the correct quantity of rice and serving the same respectively.

Pr​os

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    Detachable power cord for safe handling and easy storage
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    Non-sticky interior cooking pan
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    Can cook for a family of four
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    Transparent lid made of glass to monitor cooking
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    Automatically switches to keep warm mode after rice is cooked
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    Stay-cool knobs for holding the cooker
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    UL-certified safety mechanisms
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    All necessary accessories included in the product pack

Cons

  • Easy to clean manually but not dishwasher safe which the manufacturer does not state
  • The inner cooking pan is made from aluminum, and not stainless steel as claimed by the manufacturer
  • Some users may not like the fact that the spatula is also of non-stick material

8. Aroma Housewares ARC-914SBD 8-Cup (Cooked) Digital Cool-Touch Rice Cooker and Food Steamer, Stainless Steel

The ARC-914SBD 8-Cup (Cooked) Digital Cool-Touch Rice Cooker and Food Steamer, Stainless Steel removes the boredom of cooking, helping you to cook sumptuous meals and quickly.

Simply add recommended amount of water to rice, lower the pan inside the cooker, and press a knob. Automatic, programmable controls with keep warm setting leaves you with time to do other important tasks.

Delay timer with 15 hour space-outs helps plan your repasts. Recipe book, spatula, measuring cup, rice measuring cup, and steaming tray all add up to a delightful cooking experience.

Pr​os

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    Detachable power cord for safe handling and easy storage
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    Non-sticky interior cooking pan
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    Can cook for a family of four
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    Transparent lid made of glass to monitor cooking
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    Automatically switches to keep warm mode after rice is cooked
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    Stay-cool knobs for holding the cooker
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    UL-certified safety mechanisms
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    All necessary accessories included in the product pack

Cons

  • Easy to clean manually but not dishwasher safe which the manufacturer does not state
  • The inner cooking pan is made from aluminum, and not stainless steel as claimed by the manufacturer
  • Some users may not like the fact that the spatula is also of non-stick material

9. Tatung - TAC-11KN (UL) - 11 Cup Multi-Functional Stainless Steel Rice Cooker – Silver

Most homemakers and housewives may not have heard of Tatung brand but those who have used the TAC-11KN (UL)-11 Cup Multi-Functional Stainless Steel Rice Cooker will be aware of this kitchen appliance’s resourcefulness.

 This versatile stainless steel rice cooker can help you prepare Moroccan lamb stew, jambalaya, and fish chowder, besides the usual rice dishes.

The appliance is large enough for you to boil up to 11 uncooked rice cups. Hardwearing inner and outer vessels made of 18/8 grade stainless steel is food-grade as well ensures cooked items are safe for your health.

Pr​os

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    Four distinct cooking programs-steaming, braising, stewing, and cooking
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    “Keep warm” On/Off switch
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    Cooks up to 11 cups of rice
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    Hardwearing construction
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    Food-grade material
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    The accessories including steaming tray, measuring cup, spatula, and inner cooking vessel are provided

Cons

  • Absence of fuzzy technology or timer may not be appreciated by those willing to prepare fast, hassle-free meals
  • Very expensive compared to other similar models

10. Zojirushi NS-TSC10 5-1/2-Cup (Uncooked) Micom Rice Cooker and Warmer, 1.0-Liter

If you’re searching for a best stainless steel rice cooker exclusively for personal use, then the Zojirushi NS-TSC10 5-1/2-Cup (Uncooked) Micom Rice Cooker and Warmer, 1.0-Liter is your best bet.

Constructed from toughened material with a coated stainless steel exterior, this rice cooker can cook up to 5 and half cups of raw rice.

Fuzzy logic microcomputer technology ensures that preparing meals is always free from worries without compromising on sumptuousness.

Dual delayed timer settings, inbuilt removable power cord, melodious beep signal, and steaming basket make cooking with NS-TSC10, an unparalleled experience

Pr​os

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    Fuzzy logic technology
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    Heavy duty stainless steel construction
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    2 delayed timer settings
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    Automatic warm and extended keep warm features
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    Reheating functionality
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    Comes with a built-in detachable power supply cord

Cons

  • Not suitable for large families
  • Relatively expensive compared to other similar models

Benefits or advantages of using a best stainless steel rice cooker

If you’re someone who has never used a stainless steel rice cooker, the question that will naturally arise in your mind is why use a rice cooker in the first place. Following are some good reasons to choose a best stainless steel rice cooker over the conventional or traditional ones:

Stainless steel, an inert metal extensively used for crafting cookware, is ideal for preparation of steamed or boiled rice and other similar dishes. Being completely free of BPA, plastic, Telfon, and other chemicals, stainless steel helps preserves the nutrients (i.e. the nutritional value) as well as the natural flavor of rice and other food items.

Meals cooked in stainless steel rice cookers always taste great and never exude foul odors. Nevertheless, you’ll need to exercise caution when preparing spicy or hot dishes or tomato purees or sauces as the gravy from these meals can lead to the material developing rust or getting peeled.


Rice cookers made out of stainless steel enable you to cook simple yet sumptuous, nutritional repasts in much less time compared to slow cookers. A best stainless steel rice cooker comes in perfectly handy when you need to prepare a rice dish in a hurry and you’re not a great cook either.

If you’re in the habit of consuming boiled rice topped with veggies, chicken, fish, and dough balls, stainless steel rice cookers serve you best.


The best part of using a best stainless steel rice cooker is that the appliance turns out a perfect paella or risotto dish without your putting hardly any effort.


Though a rice cooker is designed basically to cook rice, the stainless steel home appliance is perfectly capable of cooking other grains like wheat, rye, millet, barley, corn, quinoa, and oat.

 The different cultivars of rice and other grains can be prepared as per your preferences and specifications by monitoring the rice cooker’s settings.

Features to look for in a best stainless steel rice cooker

Rice cookers have come a long way since the time they first evolved in the 50s when Toshiba launched the first automatic rice cooker followed by a Panasonic model (formerly Matsushita Electric).

 These appliances caught on with the Japanese hoi polloi in the sixties when the entire country was electrified. Rapid technological strides made in this arena led to the emergence of microcomputer- embedded cookers that allowed temperature control with greater efficiency.


In the 1980s, rice cookers that could be used on induction stovetops were introduced that enabled the cooking of rice which tasted almost similar to the grain cooked atop a ‘kamado’-a stove using wood as fuel.

Nowadays, you’ll come across an incredibly bewildering array of best stainless steel rice cooker brands and models, each with its distinct set of features as well as prices to suit all pockets.

 So that you do not lose your way in the labyrinthine maze of stainless steel rice cookers where every brand touts itself to be the best amongst the lot, we have prepared a checklist of features. You can rate the branded rice cookers (reviewed in this blog) on your own based on the following checklist.


  • Basic features
  • Resourcefulness
  • Material
  • Capacity/size
  • Cleaning convenience
  • The lid or cover matters a lot

The most popular brands of stainless steel rice cooker are usually equipped with some common or basic features. For instance, all such cookers have several programmable functions, ‘keep warm’ function switch, clear and prominent digital display, numerous cooking cycles, and so on. 

Almost all rice cookers of the stainless steel variety have a non-sticky coating, a steaming pan that facilitates in steaming vegetables, chicken, and several other food items while rice is boiling.

 Measuring cup and wooden spatula are two important accessories supplied with rice cookers that you can take as given. Another vital factor to take into consideration when choosing your best stainless steel rice cooker, is whether the appliance’s lid has a steaming vent or hole.

The opening on the lid acts as an outlet for excess steam to filter out which otherwise would have sucked the moisture out of the rice grains if the cover did not have a pore.

Conclusion

After going through the entire blog, you’ll find it easier to pick and choose your best stainless steel rice cooker. Almost all the stainless rice cookers reviewed above have the basic features, excepting for a few. Some rice cookers have very simple functions and hence easy to use while a few are loaded with advanced features, giving the user or homemaker more options to cook a diversity of dishes.

The best stainless steel rice cooker in my opinion is the Instant Pot DUO60 6 Qt 7-in-1 Multi-Use Programmable Pressure Cooker because it is reinforced with 14 cooking programs and performs the functions of 7 different cooking appliances.

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