this be a great rice cooker ! it be actually smaller than I think it would be too , which be a good thing ! my boyfriend and I have use it to make different amount of rice and typically will have pot sticker in the steamer basket . we have never have any problem with it spit up starchy mess everywhere . why ? because we rinse we rice ! you have to thoroughly rinse the starch off the rice or you 'll end up with gummy rice and a mess on you counter . if you rinse it till the water be just slightly cloudy-clear you 'll be just fine ! do not let the mixed review affect you decision on this really great rice cooker . it do it be job very well ! \*\* update 3\/22\/12 \*\* this rice cooker still work amazing . we use it about once a month or so and still have have zero problem . as another reviewer say - the bottom of the rice do get a little brown , but it really be tasty ! we love this product .