Multicooker Buying Guide: Find the Right Model for Your Kitchen

Between a lack of time and overflowing cupboards, preparing varied meals every day can be a real challenge. The electric multicooker has emerged as the perfect solution to simplify your kitchen routine by combining several appliances into one.

But with so many options on the market, it's hard to know where to start. This guide is here to help you see things more clearly, break down the key criteria, and find the multicooker that truly fits your lifestyle and household size.

Key Criteria for Choosing Your Electric Multicooker

Before you jump at the first model you see, take the time to define your needs. A smart choice guarantees you'll have an appliance you use daily, not just another gadget gathering dust in the back of a cupboard.

Capacity: The Number One Criterion to Get Right

Expressed in litres, the pot's capacity simply defines how much you can cook in a single batch.

• For one or two people: A small cooker with a 1 to 2-litre capacity will be more than enough. Its compact size makes it easy to store and energy-efficient.
• For a family of 3 to 4: A 3 to 5-litre pot is ideal. This is the most common size, perfect for preparing family meals without going overboard.
• For large families or dinner parties: If you regularly cook for more than 5 people or love to entertain, look for a large-capacity model of 6 litres or more.

Cooking Programmes: Is Versatility Everything?

Multicookers stand out for the number and type of automatic programmes they offer. Some focus on the essentials, like a simple multifunction rice cooker, while others verge on being all-in-one kitchen machines, offering a nearly endless array of possibilities.

The most common functions include:

• Quick Cook: Perfect for meals on the go.
• Slow Cook: For simmering stews and sauces that develop deep flavours over time.
• Steam: The healthy option for vegetables, fish, and poultry.
• Soup/Broth: For homemade soups and stocks without needing to monitor the pot.
• Keep Warm: Essential for keeping your dish at the right temperature until it's time to eat.

Take stock of your go-to dishes to choose a machine with programmes you'll actually use every day.

Ease of Cleaning: The Secret to Daily Use

To ensure your multicooker doesn't end up collecting dust, cleaning it should be a breeze. Opt for models with a removable non-stick pot: food won't stick, and washing is child's play. The holy grail? A pot and accessories (lid, steam basket, etc.) that are dishwasher-safe for maximum time savings.

Our Electric Multicooker Recommendations

Here are three standout models, each designed for different needs, from a student studio to a large family home.

Ochama 4 L Smart Multifunction Rice Cooker

Key feature: This model combines a family-friendly capacity with smart, practical programmes. Its thick, spherical pot, inspired by traditional cooking methods, ensures even heat distribution. The promise: consistently perfect rice and flawlessly simmered dishes.

What we love:

• 4 L capacity, ideal for 3 to 4 people.
• Intuitive control panel with dedicated modes: quick rice, porridge, soup, cake, and even a "clay pot rice" mode for a more authentic flavour.
• Non-stick spherical pot for uniform cooking.
• Removable inner lid and steam valve for easy cleaning.

Who is it for? For families looking for a versatile and reliable appliance for everyday meals, with a special emphasis on high-quality rice cooking.

View product on Joybuy.fr

Bear 1.2 L Rice Cooker

Key feature: This small cooker is a masterclass in simplicity and efficiency. With its minimalist design and single-button operation, it gets straight to the point: preparing portions for one or two people in just 25 minutes.

What we love:

• 1.2 L capacity, perfect for singles, couples, or students.
• Extremely simple one-button operation.
• Automatic keep warm function.
• Ultra-compact, it fits even in the smallest kitchens.

Who is it for? For individuals or couples who want a simple, fast appliance for rice, porridge, or small-batch soups, without being weighed down by unnecessary features.

View product on Joybuy.fr

plodon 7 L Multifunction Electric Pot

Key feature: This electric pot goes all-in on power and capacity. With its 1600 W of power and an XXL 7-litre pot, it's built for large gatherings and dishes that require rapid heating, like Chinese hot pot or hearty stews.

What we love:

• Extra-large 7 L capacity, perfect for large families and evenings with friends.
• High power of 1600 W for express boiling.
• Two heat settings to switch between fast cooking and slow simmering.
• A deep 8.5 cm pot to cook without splashes or spills.

Who is it for? For large families and anyone who loves hosting dinner parties. It's the ideal companion for hot pots, large-batch one-pot meals, and festive feasts.

View product on Joybuy.fr

Looking for a Different Cooking Solution?

If the all-in-one multicooker concept doesn't convince you, or if you prefer dedicated tools for specific cooking tasks, other options are available. For simmering stews with perfect heat control, a classic Dutch oven remains a timeless choice.

Discover our selection of ceramic saucepans with pouring spouts for traditional, controlled cooking.

Frequently Asked Questions About Multicookers

What's the difference between a multicooker and an all-in-one kitchen machine?

The difference is simple: functionality. An electric multicooker focuses on cooking (simmering, steaming, rice, etc.) through automatic programmes. An all-in-one kitchen machine goes further: in addition to cooking, it can mix, chop, knead, or blend. It's a much more comprehensive kitchen assistant, but it's also bulkier and more expensive.

Can you really cook everything in a multicooker?

A multicooker is incredibly versatile. It excels at making rice, soups, stews, and steamed dishes, and some models can even handle cakes or yoghurt. However, it doesn't replace everything: it can't deep-fry like a dedicated fryer, grill like an oven, or sear meat as perfectly as a pan.

How do I care for the non-stick pot?

To preserve the coating of your non-stick pot for as long as possible, a few simple habits are all you need. Only use wooden, silicone, or plastic utensils to avoid scratching the surface. For cleaning, a soft sponge and soapy water will do the trick. Avoid scouring pads and abrasive powders, which will certainly damage the coating.