If you want fast, no-fuss rice without a bulky appliance, a microwave rice cooker can be a great addition to your kitchen. These compact cookers let you steam, reheat, and even cook pasta with little cleanup. Below you’ll find our top picks, honest pros and cons, real customer feedback, and a simple buying guide to help you choose.
Contents
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 8 Microwave Rice Cooker Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. Professional 3-Quart Microwave Rice Cooker and Steamer — BPA-Free, Dishwasher-Safe Bowl for Serving, Storage
The 3-quart cooker is roomy and built for microwave use. It’s BPA-free and has a smart boil-over guard that helps keep your microwave clean. If you often cook larger batches, this one handles big portions without fuss.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Large 3-quart capacity for family meals
✓ Boil-over guard to prevent spills
✓ Dishwasher-safe, BPA-free construction
Why We Recommend It
It’s dependable for everyday rice and steaming. The capacity and anti-spill design make it useful when you want consistent results without babysitting the microwave.
Best For
Families or anyone who wants larger microwave-cooked batches of rice and steamed veggies.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Big capacity for multiple servings.
- Simple design that’s easy to clean in the dishwasher.
- Good build quality and clear measurement marks.
- Boil-over guard reduces mess.
Cons:
- Lid can be a bit bulky to store inside small cabinets.
- Not ideal for single-serve cooks who want something tiny and ultra-compact.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: ‘I got this rice cooker to replace my old well-used Joyce Chen one after its lid broke and this was definitely the right choice! It works even better the the old one. It cooks perfect rice easily with no fuss at all. The large capacity and secure lid ensure that it never leaks or overflows in the mic’
Customer Review: ‘The only way to cook rice, perfect every time. Works well and easy to clean’
2. Prep Solutions 17-Piece Microwave Rice & Pasta Cooker Set — 12-Cup Capacity, Locking Lid, BPA-Free
This set is a kit rather than a single cooker — great if you like accessories. It’s BPA-free and has a locking lid for tidy microwave cooking. The variety of pieces helps with meal prep and storage.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ 17-piece set for versatility
✓ 12-cup main capacity for larger batches
✓ Locking lid for spill-free cooking
Why We Recommend It
If you want an all-in-one kit to cook rice, pasta, and steam veggies, this set covers many bases. The locking lid is helpful when you’re reheating or transporting food.
Best For
People who like multi-piece sets and want storage, cooking, and serving solutions in one package.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Comes with many useful pieces for cooking and storage.
- Large capacity suitable for families.
- Locking lid reduces spills in the microwave.
Cons:
- More pieces mean more to store and organize.
- Some users may need to tweak microwave times for perfect rice.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: ‘I’m disabled so this is a game-changer for me. I’ve used it twice so far and things come out pretty okay. Needed more time for the rice though, but otherwise went very well. It’s easy to use in the microwave and it’s a good food storage bowl. Almost everything that comes with it fits in the bowl and’
Customer Review: ‘i just love my rice cooker . so easy to use . great quality and size . no smell . functions good .’
3. Portable Microwave Rice Cooker and Steamer for Dorms — BPA-Free, Dishwasher-Safe Container for Veggies, Pasta
This compact cooker is perfect for dorms and small kitchens. It’s lightweight, BPA-free, and easy to clean — a simple option for quick meals when space is tight.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Compact, portable size for single servings
✓ Secure locking lid with steam vent
✓ Dishwasher-safe and easy to store
Why We Recommend It
It’s affordable and does the job for singles or students. You won’t get fancy features, but you will get quick, decent rice with minimal mess.
Best For
Students, dorm residents, or anyone needing a compact microwave cooker for one or two servings.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Very compact and travel-friendly.
- Easy cleanup — dishwasher safe.
- Affordable entry-level option.
Cons:
- Smaller capacity not suited for families.
- May require timing tweaks for perfect rice texture.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: ‘Fast and convenient. Dud not come with instructions but you can google product snd it will give you instructions.’
Customer Review: ‘Fast and convenient. Dud not come with instructions but you can google product snd it will give you instructions.Read more’
4. 2.6L Red Microwave Rice Cooker and Steamer — BPA-Free, Dishwasher-Safe with Lid and Spoon for Various Rice
This bright red 2.6L cooker is big on capacity and simple to use. It’s designed to steam and cook various rice types with minimal fuss. The vented lid helps maintain even steam for consistent results.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ 2.6L capacity for bigger batches
✓ Vented locking lid for even steam
✓ Dishwasher-safe and includes serving spoon
Why We Recommend It
It’s a solid choice for households that want larger microwave-cooked portions. The vented lid improves texture and keeps results steady across cooks.
Best For
Families and meal preppers who want to cook multiple cups of rice at once without using the stove.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Large capacity for family meals.
- Simple vented lid design for steady steaming.
- Dishwasher-safe for easy cleanup.
Cons:
- Bright color may not match all kitchens.
- Spoon and lid storage can be awkward in small cupboards.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: ‘We love this and use it a few times each month, for several years now. Rice comes out perfect every time. Couldn’t be simpler!’
Customer Review: ‘Best thing ever I love steamed rice and while I cook other stuff stick than in microwave and its cooks while I make diner it’s perfect every time’
5. 2.8L Microwave Pressure Cooker and Steamer — BPA-Free, Includes Spoon and Measuring Cup for Quick Meals
This 2.8L model leans toward pressure-style microwave cooking and includes a measuring cup and spoon. It’s ideal when you want speed plus a bit more control over steaming and pressure release.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Pressure-style lid for faster cooking
✓ Includes measuring cup and serving spoon
✓ BPA-free, larger capacity
Why We Recommend It
When you want quicker meals with the convenience of microwave pressure cooking, this model performs well. The included tools make measuring and serving easier.
Best For
Busy cooks who want faster microwave pressure-style results and useful accessories included.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Faster cooking thanks to pressure-style function.
- Comes with measuring tools for convenience.
- Good capacity for family-sized portions.
Cons:
- Pressure-style lids need careful handling and reading the instructions.
- Slight learning curve to find ideal cook times in your microwave.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: ‘for the price it serves the purpose, and it does work in the micro, recommended’
Customer Review: “It’s fantastic! The product quality is incredible and the design is perfect for everyday use. You can tell it’s built to last. Highly recommended!”
6. Microwave Rice and Pasta Cooker with Strainer — Mess-Free, Dishwasher-Safe Design Cooks Up to Eight Cups
This cooker doubles as a pasta colander and steamer, which is handy if you like multi-use tools. It cooks up to eight cups and cleans easily in the dishwasher.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Built-in strainer makes draining pasta simple
✓ Cooks up to eight cups — good mid-size option
✓ Dishwasher-safe and easy to handle
Why We Recommend It
If you want a multi-tasker that handles rice and pasta, this one fits well. The strainer saves you from juggling a hot colander.
Best For
Households that cook both rice and pasta and want a mess-free draining feature.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Built-in strainer for easy draining.
- Good mid-size capacity for small families.
- Easy cleanup and simple to use.
Cons:
- Strainer design may require careful handling to avoid splashes.
- Some plastics can retain odors if not fully dried between uses.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “My son’s step daughter loved it for Christmas. She is a rice fiend, but likes that it can be used for much more.”
Customer Review: ‘Works well – easy to clean – Cooks all rice types and some pastas Quick & Easy Easy dishwasher cleaning’
7. 1.8L Non-Stick Microwave Rice Cooker and Steamer — BPA-Free, Compact Container Perfect for Small Kitchens
This 1.8L non-stick cooker suits small kitchens and studio apartments. The non-stick interior helps with cleanup and the compact size is ideal for one or two people.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Non-stick interior for easy cleaning
✓ Compact 1.8L size fits small kitchens
✓ Microwave, dishwasher, and freezer safe
Why We Recommend It
Great for people who want a small, low-maintenance cooker that still delivers fluffy rice. The non-stick layer is helpful when you want fast cleanup.
Best For
Singles, couples, or small kitchens that need a compact rice cooker solution.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Non-stick surface reduces scrubbing time.
- Compact and easy to store.
- Affordable and microwave-safe.
Cons:
- Non-stick surfaces can wear over time if scratched.
- Smaller capacity limits batch cooking.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: ‘It didn’t come with instructions. How long do I heat the rice for the amount of rice I am cooking?’
Customer Review: ‘The microwave rice cooker has a capacity suitable, saving space.'”
8. 2L Non-Stick Microwave Rice and Pasta Cooker with Strainer — Versatile Orange Set for Grains and Vegetables
This orange 2L cooker is attractive and multi-functional. It uses a steam circulation system that helps cook rice and vegetables evenly while saving time and energy.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ 2L non-stick cooking surface
✓ Steam circulation system for even cooking
✓ Versatile for rice, pasta, and vegetables
Why We Recommend It
It’s a balanced choice for everyday cooks who want a reliable microwave cooker that looks good on the counter. The steam system helps reduce uneven spots in rice.
Best For
Anyone looking for a versatile cooker that can handle grains and steamed vegetables without a lot of effort.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Good all-around performance for rice and veggies.
- Non-stick surface for easier cleanup.
- Attractive color and compact footprint.
Cons:
- Some users may prefer a more neutral color.
- Steam vents require careful cleaning to avoid residue buildup.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: ‘Arrived as scheduled. Product is as expected. Easy to use and easy to clean. I purchased to replaced one I had for 10 years!’
Customer Review: ‘Arrived as scheduled. Product is as expected. Easy to use and easy to clean. I purchased to replaced one I had for 10 years!Read more’
Complete Buying Guide for Microwave Rice Cooker
Essential Factors We Consider
When choosing a microwave rice cooker, look at capacity, lid design, and material. Capacity matters if you cook for one versus a family. A vented or locking lid helps prevent spills. Also check that parts are BPA-free and dishwasher-safe for easy cleaning.
Budget Planning
Decide if you want a simple, budget-friendly single cooker or a multi-piece set with accessories. Small, portable cookers can be under-budget and work well for students. Larger, feature-rich models cost more but save time for families.
Final Thoughts
Pick a cooker that matches how much rice you cook and how much cleanup you’re willing to do. If you’re unsure about times and water ratios, our guide on how to cook rice perfectly is a helpful companion. Also consider what rice types you use most — see our types of rice and best uses guide for pairing rice with dishes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How much water should I use in a microwave rice cooker?
A: Water ratios vary by rice type and cooker size, but a common starting point is 1:1 for many microwave cookers for white rice. For firmer or brown rice, add more water and increase cooking time. Refer to your cooker’s measurement marks and our how to cook rice perfectly guide for exact ratios.
Q: Are microwave rice cookers safe to use every day?
A: Yes, as long as they are labeled microwave-safe and BPA-free. Clean them regularly and follow manufacturer instructions for venting and lids.
Q: Can I cook other grains or pasta in a microwave rice cooker?
A: Most models handle pasta, quinoa, and vegetables. Models with strainers or colanders are especially handy for draining pasta without extra tools.
Q: Do I need to soak rice before microwaving?
A: Soaking is optional. Shorter grains often cook fine without soaking. Brown rice benefits from soaking or longer cooking times.
Choosing the right microwave rice cooker cuts down on time and dishes. If you want a quick, tasty meal with minimal cleanup, any of the picks above will help. For an easy recipe to try after you buy, check out our easy rice and beans recipe to put your new cooker to work.
If one of these models fits your needs, click through to check the latest price and deals. Happy cooking — and enjoy perfectly cooked rice with less hassle!