The Best Rice Cooker That Cook Other Grains

If you’re someone who enjoys cooking quinoa, oatmeal, barley, or farro alongside rice, a dedicated rice cooker that handles other grains is a game changer.

These versatile appliances simplify meal prep by automating water ratios and cooking times, delivering consistent results without babysitting.

At BestProducts, we independently research and evaluate models based on specifications, expert review consensus, and verified buyer feedback to bring you the most reliable options.

We’ve analyzed top-rated rice cookers from leading brands, focusing on their ability to cook a variety of grains, ease of use, capacity, and build quality.

Whether you need a compact unit for a dorm room or a large family-size machine, our curated list will help you find the best rice cooker that cook other grains for your kitchen. Below are our top picks.

Best Rice Cooker That Cook Other Grains Buying Guide

Capacity and Versatility

The first consideration is how much cooked grain you typically need. A small 3-cup (uncooked) model like the AROMA ARC-363NG is ideal for singles or couples, while larger 20-cup options serve big families or meal preppers.

For cooking a range of grains, look for a machine with multiple preset programs, many models offer settings for brown rice, white rice, quinoa, and oatmeal.

A compact rice cooker with a steaming basket adds further versatility for vegetables or fish.

Some rice cookers come with a separate steam tray, allowing you to cook grains and steam veggies simultaneously. This is especially handy when preparing balanced meals.

Consider your typical grain rotation: if you frequently cook quinoa or steel-cut oats, ensure the cooker has a dedicated setting or can be programmed manually.

Cooking Modes and Presets

Not all grains cook the same way. Quinoa needs a precise water ratio and shorter time, while brown rice or oat groats require longer simmering. The best rice cooker that cook other grains offers dedicated presets or adjustable timers.

For example, the best rice cooker for oatmeal typically includes a porridge setting that prevents boil-overs. Digital models with fuzzy logic technology automatically adjust temperature and time for perfect results.

If you like to experiment, a programmable cooker with a delay-start function lets you wake up to hot quinoa or have oatmeal ready after a workout.

Avoid basic on-off cookers if you plan to cook a variety of grains regularly, as they often lack the precision needed for delicate grains.

Ease of Cleaning and Maintenance

Grains like oats and quinoa can be sticky, so a removable inner pot with a non-stick coating is a lifesaver. Many top models feature dishwasher-safe pots, reducing cleanup time.

Stainless steel pots are durable and non-toxic but may require more soaking. For those concerned about chemicals, a non-toxic rice cooker with a ceramic or uncoated pot is worth considering.

A steam vent and condensation collector should be easy to detach and wash. Some units have a rinse basket for washing grains directly in the cooker, which is a convenient time-saver. Always check if the lid is removable for thorough cleaning to prevent odor buildup.

Build Quality and Durability

A rice cooker that you use daily should feel solid. Look for a sturdy exterior (stainless steel or heavy-duty plastic) and a tight-sealing lid to retain moisture. Heating elements should be even to avoid burnt patches.

Brands like AROMA and Hamilton Beach have long track records for reliability. If you plan to cook tough grains like brown rice often, consider a model with a higher wattage for consistent heat.

Warranty length is another indicator of confidence. Most manufacturers offer a one-year warranty, but some extend to three years on premium models. For budget-friendly picks, check user reviews about longevity. A rice cooker under $50 can still offer excellent build if chosen wisely.

Why You Should Trust Us

BestProducts is an independent review site that does not accept free products or payment for positive coverage.

We evaluate each rice cooker using our proprietary BP Score (0, 10), based on a consistent methodology that analyzes specifications, expert review consensus, and verified buyer feedback.

We do not conduct our own product trials; our evaluations are grounded in research, published data, expert review consensus, and verified buyer feedback.

Our team has decades of combined experience in kitchen appliances, and we update our reviews regularly to reflect market changes.

Every product in this guide has been scored and ranked based on its ability to cook multiple grains reliably, value for money, and user satisfaction. You can read more about our process in our Kitchen & Dining category.

Final Thoughts

After thorough research, these are the rice cookers that stand out for cooking other grains. Each has earned a top BP Score in its category.

• Best Overall: AROMA 20-Cup One-Touch Rice Cooker and Food Steamer (ARC-390NGP), With a high BP Score of 9.9, this large-capacity model offers one-touch operation and a built-in steamer, making it exceptionally versatile for cooking quinoa, brown rice, and vegetables simultaneously. Its programmable keep-warm function ensures perfect texture every time.
• Best Budget Pick: Elite Gourmet ERC-003X Rice Cooker, This 6-cup (cooked) model delivers outstanding value with a 9.9 BP Score. Simple controls and a keep-warm feature make it ideal for cooking oatmeal, white rice, and more without breaking the bank.
• Best for Small Spaces: Dash Mini Rice Cooker, 2-Cup (Aqua), Perfect for dorm rooms or small kitchens, this compact unit boasts a 9.9 BP Score. Its removable ceramic non-stick pot makes cleaning easy, and it cooks small batches of quinoa or rice in minutes.
• Best for Versatility: Hamilton Beach Digital Programmable Rice Cooker & Food Steamer (37518), With a 9.8 BP Score, this model includes a rinse basket and steam basket, allowing you to wash grains and steam veggies right in the cooker. Multiple presets handle oats, barley, and more.

For a broader selection, explore our roundup of the best rice cookers for every kitchen, or check out specific guides like best brown rice cooker for perfect grains.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a rice cooker cook quinoa?

Yes, most rice cookers can cook quinoa, but results depend on the model. For best results, use a 2:1 water-to-quinoa ratio and select a white rice or quick cook setting. Digital cookers with a quinoa preset simplify the process.

If you cook quinoa often, consider a model with a dedicated setting, such as the sushi rice cooker that also handles other grains.

What other grains can I cook in a rice cooker?

Rice cookers can handle many grains: oatmeal, barley, farro, millet, bulgur, and even amaranth. Each grain requires a specific water ratio and cooking time. Start with a standard 2:1 liquid-to-grain ratio and adjust as needed.

For steel-cut oats, use a porridge setting or a longer cook time. Check our steamer and rice cooker guide for tips on steaming grains.

How do I adjust water ratios for different grains?

General guidelines: quinoa uses 2:1 water to grain, brown rice uses 2.5:1, white rice uses 1.5:1, and oatmeal uses 3:1. Always check the grain package. Many digital rice cookers come with a measuring cup and water level marks for common grains.

For best results, use the same cup for both grain and water.

Is a microwave rice cooker effective for other grains?

Microwave rice cookers like the Perfect Life Ideas Microwave Rice & Grain Cooker are convenient for small portions and quick cooking.

They work well for white rice and quinoa but may not provide even results for tougher grains like brown rice or barley. For consistent results across many grains, a dedicated electric rice cooker is more reliable.

Can I cook oats in a rice cooker without burning?

Yes, if you use a model with a porridge or oatmeal setting. These settings cycle the heat to prevent scorching. Stir occasionally if your cooker lacks a non-stick pot. For quick oats, use a shorter cook time.

Our guide to the best rice cooker for oatmeal covers top picks.

What size rice cooker is best for cooking grains for a family?

For a family of four, a 10-cup (cooked) or larger model is ideal. The small stainless steel rice cooker works for couples, but for batch cooking of quinoa or oatmeal, consider a 16-cup to 20-cup model.

Larger cookers also allow you to steam vegetables at the same time.

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