Best 3 Cup Rice Cookers – Top 8 Picks For 2022

Last modified on May 14th, 2022 at 11:18 am

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A 3 cup rice cooker is a great option for smaller families, singles, or people who are just starting on their own. They are affordable, simple to use, and don’t take too much room.

They make fluffy rice quite easily and can keep it warm for hours – that’s why many people absolutely love these rice cookers.

But, finding one that fits your needs can be difficult if you’ve never used one before. That’s why we’ve put together this list of the best 3 cup rice cookers on the market today!

Each one is unique in its own way, but all of them are high-quality products that will suit your needs. So read on to find out which one will suit you the most!

But first, let’s find out what you should know before buying one.

Table Of Contents
  1. Best 3 Cup Rice Cookers: Top 3 Recommendations
  2. Things To Consider Before Buying 3 Cup Rice Cooker – Buying Guide
  3. Best 3 Cup Rice Cookers – Top Pics For 2021
  4. People Also Ask
  5. Conclusion

Best 3 Cup Rice Cookers: Top 3 Recommendations

Preview
Editor's Choice
IMUSA USA GAU-00011 Electric Nonstick Rice Cooker 3-Cup (Uncooked) 6-Cup (Cooked), White
Runner Up
Zojirushi NHS-06 3-Cup (Uncooked) Rice Cooker, White (-WB)
Value for Money
Aroma Housewares 6-Cup (Cooked) (3-Cup Uncooked) Pot Style Rice Cooker and Food Steamer (ARC-743-1NG), White
Key Features
Save time and effort in the kitchen with the quick on-off switch
Quality made stainless steel steaming tray for healthy cooking
Automatic Keep-Warm function - keep food fresh and warm for hours without overcooking it
Pros
Reheat function is great for keeping food warm
It's simple to use without any complicated instructions
It's a great price for a professional looking rice cooker
Cons
The lid is not very durable and steam can escape
Not as durable as other models - complaints about the quality
Excess steam comes out of the lid while cooking
Prime
Editor's Choice
Preview
IMUSA USA GAU-00011 Electric Nonstick Rice Cooker 3-Cup (Uncooked) 6-Cup (Cooked), White
Key Features
Save time and effort in the kitchen with the quick on-off switch
Pros
Reheat function is great for keeping food warm
Cons
The lid is not very durable and steam can escape
Prime
Check Price
Runner Up
Preview
Zojirushi NHS-06 3-Cup (Uncooked) Rice Cooker, White (-WB)
Key Features
Quality made stainless steel steaming tray for healthy cooking
Pros
It's simple to use without any complicated instructions
Cons
Not as durable as other models - complaints about the quality
Prime
Check Price
Value for Money
Preview
Aroma Housewares 6-Cup (Cooked) (3-Cup Uncooked) Pot Style Rice Cooker and Food Steamer (ARC-743-1NG), White
Key Features
Automatic Keep-Warm function - keep food fresh and warm for hours without overcooking it
Pros
It's a great price for a professional looking rice cooker
Cons
Excess steam comes out of the lid while cooking
Prime
Check Price

Last update on 2024-08-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Things To Consider Before Buying 3 Cup Rice Cooker – Buying Guide

Ease Of Use

First, you should check how easy it’s to operate your 3 cup rice cooker. You shouldn’t have to use your finger to test the temperature or keep pushing buttons until you figure it out.

The best ones are the simplest, so make sure your machine is easy to use before you buy. The cooker should do the job by itself!

Versatility

Some rice cookers come with a few different functions, which can really help you out in the kitchen. It’s always nice to have options! Some let you keep the rice warm after it’s finished cooking, for example.

Others can also steam veggies or eggs for you, and some can even make porridge. It depends on your needs, but a versatile cooker will certainly come in handy.

Cooking Options

Some machines come with specific functions for different kinds of rice, like sushi rice or brown rice. This is great if you use that type of rice often since it will be easier to prepare it.

The machine also needs to have an option to adjust cook time and heat level, because not all kinds of rice need the same amount of time or heat. Others can steam vegetables at the same time as they’re cooking the rice (and I highly recommend this).

Accessories

A measuring cup and serving spatula should always come with the rice cooker. But some also include a steamer tray or even a foam/steam separator. The more accessories you get, the better. 

uncooked rice in rice cooker

Easy To Clean

Many people hate to spend a lot of time cleaning kitchen appliances.

If you are one of them, you should look for a rice cooker that’s easy to clean, and preferably dishwasher safe so you can just put it in right away. Nonstick inner pots and surfaces are great for cleaning, so look out for this.

Cost

This depends on what you are looking for. You don’t want to spend more than you need to, but it’s also good to remember that cheap appliances are often low-quality. 

If it breaks after a few months, then you’re not really saving any money at all. So try to find one that’s durable and won’t be too expensive.

Best 3 Cup Rice Cookers – Top Pics For 2021

BLACK+DECKER Uncooked Rice Cooker 

This rice cooker is perfect for people who have little space or want to control their portions. It cooks perfectly cooked rice every time, and the removable nonstick bowl makes it easy to clean.

Sale
BLACK+DECKER 3-Cup Rice Cooker, RC503, 1.5-cup Uncooked Rice, Steaming Basket, Removable Non-Stick Bowl, One Touch
52,255 Reviews
BLACK+DECKER 3-Cup Rice Cooker, RC503, 1.5-cup Uncooked Rice, Steaming Basket, Removable Non-Stick Bowl, One Touch
  • 3-Cup Capacity - Prepare anywhere from 1 to 3 cups of cooked rice, great for small or large meals, and for leftovers. ETL...
  • Automatic Keep Warm - The rice stays ready for serving! The rice cooker automatically switches to the “keep warm”...
  • Nonstick Rice Pot - The nonstick rice pot is completely removable for easy dishwasher cleanup. Dimensions are 10 x 9.0 x 5.5...

Last update on 2024-08-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

It’s easy to make 1 to 3 cups of food. Simply push the power button after adding the desired amount of water and uncooked rice into the cooker’s bowl. Then, turn on the “cook/warm” button. You can expect perfectly cooked food every time!

BLACK+DECKER Uncooked Rice Cooker – Key Features

  • 3-cup capacity – this small rice cooker can cook anywhere from one to three cups. 
  • ‘Keep Warm’ feature – after cooking is completed, the rice cooker switches to “keep warm” mode
  • Nonstick Pot – can be easily removed for dishwasher use
  • Accessories – a measuring cup and plastic spoon are included
  • Dishwasher safe – the rice pot, the tempered glass lid, and all plastic accessories can all be washed in the dishwasher

BLACK+DECKER Uncooked Rice Cooker – Pros and Cons

ProsCons
The pot is nonstick and dishwasher safeComplaints about its durability
Food stays warm for hours
You can cook rice without oil or butter
Affordable
Perfect for singles or couples

Aroma Housewares 6-Cup (Cooked) (3-Cup Uncooked)

The Aroma Housewares 6-Cup (Cooked) (3-Cup Uncooked) is perfect for all types of rice, vegetables, and meat. It comes with a tempered glass lid with a steam vent to make cooking easy.

Sale
Aroma Housewares 6-Cup (Cooked) (3-Cup Uncooked) Pot Style Rice Cooker and Food Steamer (ARC-743-1NG), White
41,922 Reviews
Aroma Housewares 6-Cup (Cooked) (3-Cup Uncooked) Pot Style Rice Cooker and Food Steamer (ARC-743-1NG), White
  • Perfectly prepares 2 to 6 cups of any variety of cooked rice
  • Steams meat and vegetables while rice cooks below
  • Simple, one-touch operation with automatic keep-warm

Last update on 2024-08-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

You can cook up to six cups in this rice cooker at one time, which makes it perfect for loading up your dish with everything you love!

Aroma Housewares 6-Cup (Cooked) (3-Cup Uncooked) – Key Features

  • One-touch – simple, one-touch function to cook your favorite dishes
  • Steamer– cook rice, or steam meat and vegetables at the same time
  • Full view lid – lets you monitor the cooking process
  • Automatic Keep-Warm function – keep food fresh and warm for hours without overcooking it

Aroma Housewares 6-Cup (Cooked) (3-Cup Uncooked) – Pros and Cons

ProsCons
It’s a great price for a professional looking rice cookerExcess steam comes out of the lid while cooking
It’s easy to clean and to use
It cooks vegetables and meat too (steams them)

Zojirushi NHS-06 3-Cup (Uncooked) Rice Cooker 

This rice cooker is great for small households and students. It creates perfect cooked rice, one healthy serving at a time.

Sale
Zojirushi NHS-06 3-Cup (Uncooked) Rice Cooker, White (-WB)
  • Easy-to-use single switch control
  • See-through glass lid with stay cool knob
  • Stay cool handles for easy transport

Last update on 2024-08-14 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

The Zojirushi rice cooker will make cooking quick and simple with easy-to-use single switch control.

The see-through glass lid lets you know when your food is done, and the stay-cool knob allows for easy moving and serving, keeping your hands safe from burns.

Zojirushi NHS-06 3-Cup (Uncooked) Rice Cooker – Key Features

  • Safe – stay-cool knob during cooking
  • 3-cup capacity – makes one to three cups of cooked rice
  • Tempered see-through glass lid with steam vent
  • Quality made stainless steel steaming tray for healthy cooking
  • Non-stick coating inside cooking pan

Zojirushi NHS-06 3-Cup (Uncooked) Rice Cooker – Pros and Cons

ProsCons
It’s simple to use without any complicated instructionsNot as durable as other models – complaints about the quality
Great for college students, singles, or couples who don’t need a lot of rice
Easy and quick to use and clean
Affordable

Tiger JNP-S55U-HU 3-Cup

The Tiger rice cooker comes in a 3-cup capacity and includes all the necessities, including a retractable power cord and handy keep-warm function.

Last update on 2024-08-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

The non-stick pan is removable and washable, which is always a huge plus.

Cook your rice quickly in this compact appliance with up to 12 hours of keep-warm time, then go to bed at night without worrying about burnt or overcooked meals when you wake.

Tiger JNP-S55U-HU 3-Cup Review – Key Features

  • Non-stick pan for easy cleaning and maintenance
  • Comes with a retractable power cord to store away easily
  • Keep-warm function –  lets you keep cooked rice warm without over-cooking
  • Accessories included – spatula and measuring cup
  • Safe handling – lid comes with a protective handle 

Tiger JNP-S55U-HU 3-Cup Review – Pros and Cons

ProsCons
The retractable cord is a great feature that ensures the cooker won’t get in your way when not in useWater steam can sometimes leak from the bottom of the device
Small, compact size
Nonstick pan is removable and washable
Keeps your food warm for up to 12 hours

IMUSA USA GAU-00011 Electric Nonstick Rice Cooker 3-Cup 

The IMUSA Electric Rice Cooker is a small, affordable cooker designed for perfect Asian cuisine.

Last update on 2024-08-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

This 3-cup rice cooker with its simple functions, is ideal for couples or singles who want to create the best sushi or fried rice on date night with friends. 

This appliance offers automatic cooking functions, a removable nonstick pan for easy cleanup and an included tempered glass lid that allows steam to escape.

All in all, great features at an incredible price.

IMUSA USA GAU-00011 Electric Nonstick Rice Cooker 3-Cup – Best Features

  • Save time and effort in the kitchen with the quick on-off switch
  • Reheat your rice with the warming setting
  • This rice cooker is easy to use and simple
  • Features a nonstick pan for easy cleanup
  • A tempered glass lid allows steam to escape

IMUSA USA GAU-00011 Electric Nonstick Rice Cooker 3-Cup – Pros and Cons

ProsCons
Simple and effectiveSomewhat small capacity for cooking large dishes
Cooks rice in a fraction of the timeThe lid is not very durable and steam can escape
Reheat function is great for keeping food warm
Non Stick pan makes clean up a breeze
Very affordable

Panasonic SR-G06FGL, 3-Cup 

A stylish and modern kitchen appliance, the Panasonic SR-G06FGL has a simple one-step operation that allows food to be cooked effortlessly.

Sale
Panasonic SR-G06FGL Rice, Steamer & Multi-Cooker, 3-Cup, 3 cups uncooked/6 cups cooked, Silver
1,864 Reviews
Panasonic SR-G06FGL Rice, Steamer & Multi-Cooker, 3-Cup, 3 cups uncooked/6 cups cooked, Silver
  • Makes 6 cups of freshly cooked rice and other foods: this Panasonic rice cooker prepares up to 3 cups of uncooked rice (6...
  • One step automatic cooking: simple, one step operation with the push of a button; Includes automatic shutoff function when...
  • Durable non stick coated aluminum pan: The resilient, non stick aluminum coated inner pan is designed to withstand years of...

Last update on 2024-08-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Accompanied with a glass lid and white plastic knob for safe monitoring of cooking, this rice cooker can make up to six cups of uncooked rice or an entire pot of oatmeal.

With included accessories such as a measuring cup and rice scoop, this rice cooker purchase will not disappoint!

Panasonic SR-G06FGL, 3-Cup – Key Features

  • Makes up to 6 cups of freshly cooked rice and other foods (veg & soup)
  • One-step automatic cooking with push-button for convenience
  • Durable nonstick coated aluminum pan for easy cleaning and use
  • Glass lid to safely monitor the cooking process
  • Included accessories – rice scoop and measuring cup.

Panasonic SR-G06FGL, 3-Cup – Pros and Cons

ProsCons
Stylish design that looks great on any countertopThere have been complaints about the cooker being too hot to touch when in use
Convenient one-step automatic cooking
Can make 3 cups of uncooked rice or an entire pot of oatmeal
Durable nonstick coating makes it easy to clean the pan after use

Zojirushi NS-LAC05XA Micom 3-Cup (Uncooked) 

The Zojirushi NS-LAC05XA Micom 3-Cup has a fuzzy logic microcomputer that monitors the rice as it cooks to prevent overcooking. With different menu control options, you can cook white or brown rice, sushi or porridge.

Zojirushi NS-LAC05XA Micom 3-Cup(Uncooked) Rice Cooker and Warmer
913 Reviews
Zojirushi NS-LAC05XA Micom 3-Cup(Uncooked) Rice Cooker and Warmer
  • 1-year limited warranty and 3-Cup rice cooker with micro-computerized fuzzy logic technology
  • Measuring cup, nonstick rice spatula, and spatula holder included
  • Keep-warm function; LCD display with timer; nonstick inner cooking pan

Last update on 2024-08-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

The keep-warm function will keep your ingredients warm without cooking them, and the timer will alert you when time’s up!

You’ll also receive a measuring cup and spatula for added convenience. There is also a 1-year warranty for extra protection, which not every model offers.

Zojirushi NS-LAC05XA Micom 3-Cup (Uncooked) – Key Features

  • A fuzzy logic microcomputer that prevents overcooking
  • Menu options for white and brown rice, sushi, and porridge
  • Keep warm function to keep ingredients warm without cooking them
  • Timer alerts you when time’s up
  • Includes measuring cup and spatula for added convenience

Zojirushi NS-LAC05XA Micom 3-Cup (Uncooked) – Pros and Cons

ProsCons
Easy to useComplaints about receiving a faulty product with manufacturing issues
Menu control options offer different types of dishes that can be made
Fuzzy logic microcomputer – cook the rice well without overcooking it or burning it
Timer that lets you know how much time is left before the cooker turns off

Cuckoo CR-0351F Electric Heating Rice Cooker (Red) 

The Zojirushi NS-LAC05XA Micom 3-Cup is a powerful red rice cooker that includes an intelligent cooking algorithm and fuzzy logic.

Cuckoo CR-0351F Rice Cooker, 7.80 x 8.90 x 11.50, Red
  • 5 Versatile Modes: Includes white rice, brown/GABA rice, porridge, and a turbo mode that provides cooked white rice in under...
  • Small to Mid Capacity: The 3-cup uncooked (6-cup cooked) capacity makes this rice cooker ideal for small family gatherings to...
  • Easy-to-Use Functionality: Equipped with user-friendly digital controls, a modern LCD display, and Fuzzy Logic Technology

Last update on 2024-08-18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

With the 12-minute turbo cook feature, this device is fast enough to provide your family with an easy nutritious meal from anywhere in your house. The nonstick coating ensures you won’t have to spend hours scrubbing the pan (you are gonna love this!).

With 6 different menu options (rice, oatmeal, porridge, steam), you can cook a variety of meals exactly the way you like them.

Cuckoo CR-0351F Electric Heating Rice Cooker (Red) – Key Features

  • Intelligent cooking algorithm and fuzzy logic for a healthy meal
  • 12-minute turbo cook feature allows you to cook a dish quickly
  • Nonstick coating is easy to clean and prevents you from having to scrub the pan
  • 6 menu options for a variety of dishes

Cuckoo CR-0351F Electric Heating Rice Cooker (Red) – Pros and Cons

ProsCons
Intelligent cooking algorithm and fuzzy logic – cook without overcooking or burning your riceComplaints about its durability with parts wearing after a few months
Turbo cook feature helps you to cook your meal quickly (perfect for busy evenings)
Nonstick coating-  easy to clean and won’t leave residue on the pan after washing it
6 menu options that provide variety in terms of what dishes can be cooked

People Also Ask

How Many People Can A 3 Cup Rice Cooker Feed?

A 3 cup rice cooker can typically cook enough food for up to 3 people.  It is perfect for a single-family and can easily cook enough food for up to 3 adults. This will depend on the serving size and appetite of each person.

How Much Rice Should You Use For 3 Cups Of Water?

The accepted ratio is 1 cup water to 1 cup dry rice.

If your rice cooker can hold that much water, you will need to add 3 cups of water to 3 cups of rice. The rice-to-water ratio can be tricky because different rice cookers cook at different speeds.

pouring water to a rice cooker

Is A 3 Cup Rice Cooker Enough?

The 3 cup rice cookers are typically enough for a family of two, although some may provide enough rice for up to 3 people. This will depend on the serving size and appetite of each person.

Conclusion

All of these top choice 3 cup rice cookers offer their own unique features. It depends on your personal preferences and needs when choosing one. For example, if you want a cooker with fuzzy logic to ensure better cooking results, then go for the Zojirushi Micom 3-Cup (Uncooked).

Or, if you just simply want a rice cooker that can cook well but without all the extra features and fuss, then go for the Aroma Housewares 3-Cup.

No matter which rice cooker you choose, it will serve its purpose and cook your favorite dishes with ease. I use my 3 cup rice cooker to make a variety of different dishes and I love it!

Based on the above, my 3 top recommendations are:

Order one of our recommended 3 cup rice cookers and let us know how you use it in your kitchen.