Side-by-side comparison based on expert reviews and community consensus.
Aroma Select Stainless Rice & Grain Cooker/Steamer
Best Budget PickInstant Pot
Most VersatilePrice
$30-$50
$80-$130
Summary
Under $50 and it outperformed several higher-end models in Wirecutter's tests. The stainless steel pot is a standout feature at this price, avoiding non-stick coating concerns.
Not a dedicated rice cooker, but Reddit users consistently praise it for basmati and other long-grain rice — plus it replaces multiple appliances. A smart pick if counter space is limited.
Pros
- Stainless steel pot avoids non-stick coating degradation concerns
- 14-cup capacity handles large batches
- Reliably made good jasmine, sushi, and brown rice in Wirecutter testing
- Under $50 — best value for the performance delivered
- Excellent for basmati and long-grain rice per multiple Reddit users
- Replaces pressure cooker, slow cooker, and rice cooker in one device
- Widely available and well-supported with accessories
- Good option for people with limited counter or storage space
Cons
- Grains not as tender or light as Zojirushi or Cuckoo results
- Fewer cooking modes and less precise control than premium models
- Build quality won't match buy-it-for-life Japanese brands
- Not optimized for short-grain or sushi rice like dedicated cookers
- Larger footprint than a basic rice cooker
- More complex to use than a single-purpose rice cooker
Our take
For beginners or anyone who doesn't want to spend $150 on a rice cooker, Aroma punches well above its weight — Wirecutter found it beat pricier competitors in blind testing.
If you already own an Instant Pot or are considering one, don't buy a separate rice cooker — it handles basmati especially well and the multi-use value is hard to beat.
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