Finding a reliable rice cooker under $50 can save time and money. These affordable models still deliver great cooking results.

Rice cookers make cooking rice simple and fast. They also steam vegetables, cook soups, and keep food warm. You don’t need to spend a lot to get a good one. This guide covers top rice cookers under $50 that fit small kitchens and tight budgets.

Brands like AROMA, BLACK+DECKER, and Elite Gourmet offer options with features like non-stick bowls, steaming baskets, and auto keep warm functions. Whether you need a small 2-cup cooker or a larger 16-cup model, you can find one that meets your needs. These rice cookers combine ease of use, durability, and versatility at a budget-friendly price.

Aroma® Rice Cooker

The AROMA® Rice Cooker, 3-Cup (Uncooked) / 6-Cup (Cooked) is perfect for individuals or small families looking for a compact and versatile kitchen appliance. Ideal for those who want to effortlessly cook perfect rice, oatmeal, or even soups without the hassle of constant monitoring, this cooker suits busy professionals, students, or anyone with limited kitchen space. Its small size and multi-functionality make it a great choice for dorm rooms, small apartments, or as an additional cooker for side dishes.

Pros:

• Compact design with dimensions of 8.0 x 8.13 x 8.9 inches, making it space-efficient
• Multi-functionality as a rice cooker, oatmeal cooker, and soup maker
• Auto keep warm feature maintains food temperature after cooking
• Lightweight at just 2.8 pounds for easy handling and storage
• Simple operation suitable for beginners and busy users

Cons:

• Limited capacity of 3 cups uncooked rice, which may not be enough for larger families
• Only available in white color, which might not match all kitchen aesthetics
• Basic design with fewer advanced cooking settings compared to larger models

The AROMA® ARC-363NG rice cooker combines convenience and efficiency in a compact form factor. Its 1.5-quart capacity is ideal for preparing small portions, while the versatile cooking options allow users to prepare not just rice but also oatmeal and soups. The cooker’s auto keep warm feature ensures your meals stay warm and ready to serve without overcooking, which adds an extra layer of convenience for those with busy schedules.

Crafted by the trusted brand AROMA, this small rice cooker is lightweight yet durable, making it easy to move or store when not in use. Its simple controls and straightforward operation make it perfect for anyone who wants to enjoy perfectly cooked meals with minimal effort. The cooker’s compact size also means it fits comfortably on most kitchen countertops, making it a practical addition to any kitchen setup.

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Aroma Digital Rice Cooker

The AROMA Digital Rice Cooker is ideal for individuals or small families who want a reliable and versatile appliance for cooking rice and other grains effortlessly. If you value convenience, precise cooking, and a compact design, this cooker is perfect for you. Whether you are a beginner in the kitchen or an experienced cook looking for efficiency, this multicooker meets your needs.

Pros:

• Digital controls for easy and precise cooking settings
• Compact size with a 4-cup uncooked / 8-cup cooked capacity, perfect for small households
• Multifunctional use as a rice cooker, steamer, and grain cooker
• Durable stainless steel exterior that is easy to clean
• Lightweight design at only 4.2 pounds for easy handling and storage

Cons:

• Limited capacity may not be suitable for larger families
• Some users may find the digital interface requires a learning curve

The AROMA ARC-914SBD Digital Rice Cooker offers a combination of modern technology and practical design. Its digital control panel allows users to select different cooking modes easily, ensuring perfectly cooked rice every time. The multifunctional capability extends beyond rice to include steaming vegetables and cooking various grains, making it a versatile addition to any kitchen.

Featuring a sleek stainless steel exterior, this cooker not only looks stylish on your countertop but also provides durability and simple maintenance. Its compact dimensions make it an excellent choice for kitchens with limited space, and the moderate weight allows for effortless portability. Overall, this rice cooker delivers convenience, quality, and versatility in a compact package.

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Black+decker Rice Cooker

The BLACK+DECKER 16-Cup Rice Cooker is ideal for individuals or families who frequently prepare rice and steamed dishes at home. Whether you are a busy professional, a health-conscious cook, or someone who enjoys easy-to-make meals, this rice cooker offers convenience and efficiency in the kitchen. It is perfect for those who want a reliable appliance to cook large quantities of rice while also having the option to steam vegetables or other foods.

Pros:

• Large 16-cup capacity accommodates big family meals or gatherings
• One-touch operation simplifies cooking process for ease of use
• Keep warm feature keeps rice fresh and ready to serve for hours
• Removable non-stick bowl ensures easy cleaning and prevents sticking
• Includes steaming basket for versatile cooking options beyond rice
• Compact white design fits well in most kitchen decors

Cons:

• May take up more counter space due to its size
• White color may show stains or discoloration over time
• Limited to rice and steaming, not suitable for multi-cooking functions

The BLACK+DECKER 16-Cup Rice Cooker boasts a generous capacity of up to 16 cups of cooked rice, making it suitable for larger households or those who like to meal prep. Its one-touch operation allows users to easily start the cooking process without complicated settings, which is especially helpful for beginners or those in a rush. The keep warm function maintains the rice at an ideal temperature after cooking, so meals can be served fresh whenever you’re ready.

Featuring a removable non-stick bowl, cleanup is hassle-free, and the included steaming basket adds versatility by allowing you to prepare vegetables, seafood, or other foods simultaneously. The compact and sleek white design not only looks clean and modern but also complements most kitchen styles. Overall, this rice cooker combines user-friendly features and practical benefits that make it a valuable addition to any kitchen focused on efficient meal preparation.

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Aroma Professional Digital Rice Cooker

The AROMA Professional Digital Rice Cooker, Multicooker is ideal for individuals or small families who value convenience and versatility in their kitchen appliances. If you often cook rice, grains, or steamed dishes and appreciate the ease of programmable settings, this 4-cup (uncooked) / 8-cup (cooked) capacity cooker with a sleek stainless steel exterior is perfect for you. It is especially suited for those who want a multi-functional device that can also slow cook and steam, saving space and time.

Pros:

• Compact 2Qt size, perfect for small households or limited kitchen space
• Multi-functionality as a rice cooker, slow cooker, steamer, and grain cooker
• Durable and stylish stainless steel exterior that complements any kitchen décor
• Easy-to-use digital controls for precise cooking
• Lightweight at just 4.36 pounds, making it portable and easy to handle

Cons:

• Limited capacity may not be suitable for larger families or gatherings
• Gray color might not appeal to everyone’s aesthetic preferences

The AROMA Professional Digital Rice Cooker stands out with its versatile cooking functions, allowing users to not only cook perfect rice but also slow cook hearty meals and steam vegetables with ease. Its digital interface simplifies the cooking process, providing preset options that ensure consistent results without constant monitoring. The 2Qt capacity is ideal for daily meal preparation for one to two people, making it highly efficient and reducing waste.

Additionally, the cooker’s sleek stainless steel exterior adds durability and a modern touch to your kitchen. Its lightweight design makes it easy to move or store when not in use. Whether you want to prepare healthy steamed dishes or slow-cooked recipes, this multicooker delivers excellent performance while saving time and counter space, making it a valuable addition to any kitchen.

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Elite Gourmet Erc003b Electric Rice Cooker

The Elite Gourmet ERC003B Electric Rice Cooker is ideal for individuals or small families who enjoy convenient and efficient cooking. Whether you are a busy professional, a student, or someone who loves to prepare a variety of meals with minimal hassle, this cooker is perfect for you. It is especially suited for those who want to cook rice, soups, stews, grains, and hot cereals effortlessly while ensuring consistent results.

Pros:

• Automatic keep warm function preserves food temperature after cooking
• Compact design suitable for small kitchens or limited counter space
• Versatile cooking options including soups, stews, and hot cereals
• Easy to use with simple one-touch operation
• 6 cups cooked capacity (3 cups uncooked) perfect for small households
• Sleek black finish that complements modern kitchen decor

Cons:

• Limited capacity might not be suitable for large families or gatherings
• No advanced programmable settings or multiple cooking modes
• Exterior can get warm during operation, requiring caution

The Elite Gourmet ERC003B Electric Rice Cooker features a straightforward design that makes cooking rice and other dishes simple and efficient. Its automatic keep warm function ensures that your food stays warm and ready to serve even if you are busy or delayed from eating. This feature is particularly beneficial for those who have unpredictable schedules but still want a hot meal waiting for them. The cooker’s versatility allows users to prepare not only rice but also soups, stews, grains, and hot cereals, adding value to your kitchen appliances.

With a compact size and a capacity of 6 cups cooked rice, this rice cooker is perfect for small households or individuals who want quick meal preparation without the need for multiple pots and pans. The black color and sleek design make it a stylish addition to any kitchen countertop. Additionally, the one-touch operation simplifies the cooking process, making it accessible to users of all skill levels. Overall, the Elite Gourmet ERC003B Electric Rice Cooker combines practicality, ease of use, and versatility, making it a valuable appliance for everyday meal preparation.

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Aroma Mini Rice Cooker

The AROMA® Mini Rice Cooker is perfect for individuals or small households looking for a compact and versatile kitchen appliance. Ideal for students, singles, or couples, this cooker efficiently handles small portions of rice, soups, and oatmeal, making it a practical choice for those with limited kitchen space or busy lifestyles.

Pros:

• Compact 2-cup uncooked / 4-cup cooked capacity ideal for small servings
• Multi-functional as a grain cooker, soup maker, and oatmeal cooker
• Auto keep warm feature maintains food temperature after cooking
• Lightweight design at only 2.1 pounds for easy portability
• Attractive Milk Tea color adds aesthetic appeal to any kitchen

Cons:

• Limited capacity may not suit larger families
• Basic features without advanced cooking presets
• Single color option may not match all kitchen decors

The AROMA® Mini Rice Cooker offers a simple yet effective way to prepare a variety of meals beyond just rice. Its compact size does not compromise functionality, allowing users to cook grains, soups, and oatmeal with ease. The cooker’s one-quart capacity is perfect for quick meals, making it a reliable appliance for daily use without occupying much counter space.

Additionally, the auto keep warm function ensures that your food stays at an optimal temperature until you are ready to eat, eliminating the need to reheat. Its lightweight design and appealing Milk Tea color make it a stylish and convenient addition to any kitchen setup. Overall, this mini rice cooker combines practicality with versatility, catering well to the needs of small households and individuals.

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Elite Gourmet Erc006ss 6-cup Electric Rice Cooker

The Elite Gourmet ERC006SS 6-Cup Electric Rice Cooker is ideal for individuals or small families who enjoy versatile kitchen appliances that simplify meal preparation. Whether you are a busy professional, a student, or someone who loves cooking a variety of dishes such as rice, soups, stews, porridges, grains, and cereals, this cooker offers convenience and efficiency in one compact device. It is perfect for those seeking a reliable and easy-to-use appliance to enhance their cooking experience.

Pros:

• Compact and space-saving design with a 6-cup capacity (3 cups uncooked)
• Durable stainless steel inner pot for even heat distribution and easy cleaning
• Multi-functional – can cook soups, stews, porridges, grains, and cereals besides rice
• Simple operation with user-friendly controls
• Attractive black finish that complements most kitchen decor

Cons:

• Limited capacity may not be suitable for larger families
• No advanced digital controls or timer functions
• Basic design without additional cooking presets

The Elite Gourmet ERC006SS features a stainless steel inner pot that ensures durability and efficient heat conduction, leading to perfectly cooked meals every time. Its versatility allows users to prepare a variety of dishes beyond rice, such as hearty soups and nutritious porridges, making it a valuable multi-purpose appliance in the kitchen. The compact size makes it easy to store and ideal for kitchens with limited counter space.

Additionally, the cooker’s straightforward functionality minimizes the learning curve, so even beginners can operate it with ease. The 6-cup capacity is perfect for small households or individuals who want to prepare multiple servings without waste. Overall, this rice cooker offers excellent value for those looking for a dependable, multi-use kitchen tool that combines simplicity, durability, and versatility.

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Black+decker Rice Cooker 6-cup

The BLACK+DECKER Rice Cooker 6-Cup (Cooked) with Steaming Basket is ideal for individuals or small families looking for a compact, efficient appliance to simplify meal preparation. If you want to cook perfect rice with minimal effort while also having the option to steam vegetables or other foods, this rice cooker is a practical choice. It is especially suitable for those who value convenience, easy cleanup, and consistent cooking results.

Pros:

• Compact size perfect for small kitchens or limited counter space
• Includes a steaming basket for versatile cooking options
• Removable non-stick bowl ensures easy cleaning and prevents rice from sticking
• Simple one-touch operation with automatic keep-warm function
• Lightweight design at just under 4 pounds for easy handling and storage

Cons:

• Limited to cooking up to 6 cups of cooked rice, which may not be sufficient for larger families
• Basic features without advanced settings or digital controls
• White color may show stains or discoloration over time

The BLACK+DECKER Rice Cooker features a removable non-stick bowl that allows for effortless cleaning after use, making it a user-friendly appliance for daily cooking. Its steaming basket adds versatility, enabling users to steam vegetables, seafood, or dumplings simultaneously while cooking rice. This dual functionality saves time and reduces the need for multiple pots or pans.

With dimensions of 5.5 inches in height, 9.0 inches in width, and 10.0 inches in length, this compact rice cooker fits comfortably on most kitchen counters without occupying much space. The automatic keep-warm feature ensures that your rice stays warm and ready to serve without overcooking, providing convenience for busy lifestyles. Overall, this appliance offers an affordable and reliable solution for preparing fluffy rice and steamed dishes with ease.

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Imusa Usa Gau-00012 Electric Nonstick Rice Cooker

The IMUSA USA GAU-00012 Electric NonStick Rice Cooker is ideal for individuals or small families who want a convenient and efficient way to prepare perfectly cooked rice. Whether you are a busy professional, a student, or a cooking enthusiast seeking an easy-to-use kitchen appliance, this rice cooker is designed to simplify your meal preparation process. Its compact size and reliable performance make it perfect for those with limited kitchen space or anyone looking to cook rice without the hassle of monitoring the stove.

Pros:

• Compact and lightweight design, easy to store and transport
• Nonstick cooking pot for effortless cleaning and food release
• Capacity to cook up to 5 cups of uncooked rice (10 cups cooked)
• Automatic keep-warm function to maintain rice temperature after cooking
• Simple one-touch operation for user-friendly experience
• Energy-efficient with a low power consumption

Cons:

• Limited to cooking rice and may not support a wide variety of dishes
• Basic design without advanced cooking settings or digital display
• White color may show stains or discoloration over time

The IMUSA USA GAU-00012 Electric NonStick Rice Cooker boasts a practical design with dimensions of 6.9 inches in height, 10.25 inches in width, and 8.8 inches in length, making it a space-saving addition to any kitchen. Its nonstick pot ensures that rice cooks evenly without sticking to the surface, which not only improves the quality of the rice but also makes cleaning quick and hassle-free. The cooker’s ability to handle up to 5 cups of uncooked rice is perfect for meal prepping or serving a small group.

Users will appreciate the automatic keep-warm feature that keeps rice at an ideal temperature after cooking, eliminating the need to reheat and preserving the rice’s flavor and texture. The straightforward one-touch control offers ease of use, making it accessible for people of all cooking skill levels. Additionally, the lightweight construction at just 3.15 pounds allows for easy portability, suitable for dorm rooms, small apartments, or even travel. Overall, this rice cooker from IMUSA USA combines functionality with convenience, delivering consistent results for anyone looking to simplify their rice cooking routine.

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Aroma Housewares Select Stainless Pot-style Rice Cooker & Food Steamer

The Aroma Housewares 6-Cup Select Stainless Pot-Style Rice Cooker & Food Steamer is ideal for individuals or small families who want an easy and efficient way to prepare perfectly cooked rice and steamed dishes. This appliance is perfect for busy home cooks, college students, or anyone looking for a compact, user-friendly kitchen gadget that combines versatility with convenience.

Pros:

• One-touch operation makes cooking simple and hassle-free.
• Compact design with a 1.2Qt capacity suitable for small to medium meals.
• Includes a food steaming tray for preparing healthy steamed vegetables or proteins.
• Durable stainless steel pot ensures even cooking and easy cleaning.
• Lightweight and compact (3.68 pounds), ideal for limited kitchen space or dorm rooms.

Cons:

• May not be sufficient for larger families due to its 6-cup cooked rice capacity.
• Limited color option available (white) which might not match all kitchen decors.
• Basic features without advanced cooking settings for specialized rice types.

The Aroma Housewares 6-Cup Select Rice Cooker stands out with its simple one-touch operation, allowing users to cook rice and steam food effortlessly. Its compact size makes it easy to store and perfect for kitchens with limited counter space. The stainless steel pot provides durability and ensures even heat distribution, which results in consistently cooked rice every time. Additionally, the included steaming tray offers versatility, enabling users to prepare complete meals in one appliance.

With its lightweight design and user-friendly features, this rice cooker is a great choice for anyone seeking convenience without sacrificing quality. While it may not cater to large households, the 1.2Qt capacity is ideal for singles, couples, or small families. The appliance’s clean white finish also adds a modern touch to any kitchen setup. Overall, the Aroma Housewares rice cooker delivers reliable performance for everyday cooking needs.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What Capacity Rice Cooker Is Best Under $50?

For under $50, rice cookers range from 2 to 16 cups cooked capacity. Choose based on your household size and cooking needs.

Are Multi-functional Rice Cookers Worth Buying?

Yes, multi-functional cookers offer cooking versatility for rice, soups, oatmeal, and steaming. They save space and add value.

How Important Is The Keep Warm Feature?

The keep warm feature maintains rice temperature after cooking. It ensures your rice stays fresh and ready to serve.

Which Rice Cooker Brands Are Reliable Under $50?

Aroma, Black+Decker, Elite Gourmet, and IMUSA are popular, reliable brands offering quality rice cookers under $50.

Can Rice Cookers Cook Other Grains Besides Rice?

Yes, most models can cook grains like quinoa, oats, and barley. Some also handle soups and stews efficiently.

How Easy Is Cleaning These Budget Rice Cookers?

Most have removable, non-stick bowls making cleaning simple. Stainless steel exteriors often wipe clean with a damp cloth.

Conclusion

Choosing the best rice cooker under $50 is easier with this list of reliable options. Each cooker offers useful features like keep warm functions, steaming baskets, and easy-to-clean pots. Whether you need a small cooker for quick meals or a larger model for family dinners, these choices fit different needs.

The Aroma and Black+Decker models stand out for their durability and simple controls. Compact cookers are great for limited space, while multi-cookers add versatility for soups and grains. A good rice cooker saves time and effort in the kitchen. It helps prepare fluffy rice and other dishes without constant attention.

With these budget-friendly rice cookers, you get value and convenience without overspending. Pick one that matches your cooking style and capacity needs. This way, making perfect rice becomes a hassle-free part of your daily routine.