Jump to:
- Quick list
- 1. Best overall
- 2. Best budget
- 3. Premium pick
- 4. Premium Ninja
- 5. Best for newbies
- 6. Most stylish
- 7. Multi-functional
- 8. Smaller portions
- 9. Most versatile
- 10. No-frills
- How to choose
- How we tested
- Quick list
- 1. Best overall
- 2. Best budget
- 3. Premium pick
- 4. Premium Ninja
- 5. Best for newbies
- 6. Most stylish
- 7. Multi-functional
- 8. Smaller portions
- 9. Most versatile
- 10. No-frills
- How to choose
- How we tested
- Quick list
- 1. Best overall
- 2. Best budget
- 3. Premium pick
- 4. Premium Ninja
- 5. Best for newbies
- 6. Most stylish
- 7. Multi-functional
- 8. Smaller portions
- 9. Most versatile
- 10. No-frills
- How to choose
- How we tested
Best Instant Pot: quick menu
The list in brief
1. Best overall
2. Best budget
3. Best premium
4. Premium alternative
5. Best for newbies
6. Most stylish
7. Best multi-functional
8. Best for small quantities
9. Most versatile
10. Best trimmed-down
How to choose
How we test
The best Instant Pots are versatile multi-cookers that combine slow cooking, pressure cooking, rice cooking, sautéeing, steaming, and more in one handy appliance. The original Instant Pot was an instant hit, and since its release the brand has brought out a succession of improved models with improved capabilities such as sous vide and even air frying, saving you the trouble of finding one of the best air fryers.
It hasn't taken long for other brands to take a bite out of Instant Pots' lunch, so in this guide you'll find similar options from other brands including Ninja Foodi and Breville. We've gathered together the very best models on the market today and arranged them so that you can quickly find the option that's best suited to your needs and budget. And we're also constantly looking for the best Instant Pot deals so you can get yours for the best possible price.
Once you've chosen your Instant Pot we'd recommend reading two more of our articles: how to cook hard-boiled eggs in an Instant Pot, because the results are so great they'll immediately make you glad you bought your appliance, and how to clean an Instant Pot, because while they're very easy to clean, their seals can get a little whiffy if you cook a lot of heavily flavored food.
The quick list
1. Instant Pot Pro
Instant Pot for most
Replacing 10 cooking appliances in one package, this versatile multi-cooker may offer a lot, but it's also convenient with its one-touch programs as well as easy and safe to use. That's especially with its steam release method to minimizes accidental steam burns.
Read more below
2. Instant Pot Duo Plus
For the budget-minded
This reasonably-priced option is our best value pick due to its slew of functionalities that you'll find in its pricier counterparts. That includes a safe steam-release method and customizability of its preset buttons. Just bear in mind that it has fewer recipe presets than others.
Read more below
3. Instant Pot Pro Plus
Premium Instant Pot
If you can never figure out what to cook, this is the Instant Pot for you. The most expensive option in the range, it's a souped-up version of the Pro with an accompanying app that provides over 1,400 recipes as well as remote control via your smartphone.
Read more below
4. Ninja Foodi Max 15-in-1
Premium alternative
Cook the perfect meats and other meals with this multi-cooker from Ninja that not only offers a lot of cooking options but also has a large 8-qt capacity - perfect for bigger families. It's a little on the pricier side, but it's worth every penny.
Read more below
5. Instant Pot Duo Nova
Great for beginners
Offering 7 cooking methods and 14 pre-defined programs, there's a lot here that novice users can do. It's also easy to use, thanks to features that make it effortless and safe. The lid even automatically seals for you before cooking starts.
Read more below
6. Breville the Fast Slow Pro
Stylish and classy
One of the better-looking options on the market, this boasts a brushed stainless steel finish and a neat, streamlined design, making it a great option for those who like to keep a nice aesthetic. Looks-aside, it delivers tender and succulent results, making it a well-rounded package.
Read more below
Load the next four products...
7. Instant Pot Duo Crisp
Another great option
On top of its ability to pressure cook, this multi-cooker can also air fry, roast and bake, thanks to its air fryer lid that comes in the box. It has a big capacity as well, perfect for bigger groups. With that air frying function, you don't need another countertop appliance.
Read more below
8. Ninja Foodi Multi-Cooker
For small quantities
Couples and individuals who want to cook small batches of dishes might prefer this multi-cooker from Ninja. It's loaded with features, however, thanks to its wide range of cooking techniques and a decent number of accessories included in the box.
Read more below
9. Instant Pot Duo Crisp with Ultimate Lid
A slew of cooking functions
With thirteen cooking functions, including sous vide and bread proofing, this is the most versatile multi-cooker on the planet. It's also incredibly easy to use, thanks to its automatic pressure release. It has a smaller capacity, but that is hardly a deal-breaker.
Read more below
10. Lakeland Mini Multi Cooker
Simple but functional
A straightforward multi-cooker with the simplest operation may be the best option if you want something no-nonsense. Though stripped back to the bare essentials, it can still do a number of things including making yogurt and bread proving.
Read more below
The best Instant Pot multi-cookers 2024
Why you can trust TechRadar We spend hours testing every product or service we review, so you can be sure you’re buying the best. Find out more about how we test.
The best Instant Pot overall
The best Instant Pot overall
Specifications
Capacity: 6qt / 6L or 8qt / 8L
Cooking modes: pressure cook, slow cook, rice cooker, steam, sauté, sous vide, reheat, yogurt maker, sterilizer, cake maker
Number of presets: 28
Reasons to buy
+ Five one-touch favorite settings Wide array of cooking methods Inner pot can be heated on all stovetop types
Reasons to avoid
- No recipe book or cooking charts included Steam rack unsuitable for vegetables
The Instant Pot Pro is the best Instant Pot you can buy right now. It sets out to replace ten kitchen appliances including a pressure cooker, slow cooker, saute pan, rice cooker, steamer, yogurt maker, and warmer, and has 28 cooking modes for preparing different dishes. There's also a version that can air fry too, known as the Instant Pot Pro Crisp.
We were impressed the Instant Pot Pro also has five buttons that allow you to store your favorite settings for recipes you make regularly, giving you the convenience of the one-touch programs but for your own custom recipes.
The inner pot can be used on the stovetop to sear food before cooking, too, and has handles, so you can take the pot straight to the table. On top of that, the steam release switch is one of the easiest and safest steam release methods we’ve used when testing the pressure cook function on a multi-cooker and the steam valve has a cover to reduce splashes and noise too.
However there’s no recipe book or cooking charts included, which means using the Instant Pot does require some experimentation and in our tests, broccoli florets fell through the steaming rack, so to steam vegetables, you'll need to buy an additional accessory. But overall we found it easy to use and it can produce a great meal.
Read our full Instant Pot Pro review
The best budget Instant Pot
The best budget Instant Pot
Specifications
Capacity: 3qt / 3L (US only), 6qt / 5.7L, 8qt /L
Cooking modes: Pressure cook, slow cook, rice cooker, yogurt maker, steamer, sauté pan, yogurt maker, sterilizer, food warmer
Number of presets: 15
Reasons to buy
+ Safer steam release Intuitive to use Available in more than one size
Reasons to avoid
- Fewer recipe presets than some other Instant Pots Top of lid can get very hot No steam cook function
While not necessarily the cheapest Instant Pot out there, the Instant Pot Duo Plus is still very reasonably priced while offering a lot of functionality, making it one of the best options out there for people on a budget. But, beyond the multiple cooking modes and presets, we really appreciated the safety features, particularly the fact that you can release steam with a flick of a switch. No need to put your hand near a hot valve.
We also liked the fact that it’s available in multiple sizes, so different sized households can make the most out of this model’s combination of price and performance. However, we do find it a bit light on presets compared to a lot of Instant Pots, though at least they’re easily customizable. Also, be aware that there’s no air fryer functionality on here. So, if you want a multi-cooker to replace all your other kitchen appliances, this might not be the one.
That said, the results of what the Instant Pot Duo Plus can do, whether it’s rice, Thai curry, or chili, are as good as its price tag is low.
Read our full Instant Pot Duo Plus review
The best premium Instant Pot
The best premium Instant Pot
Specifications
Capacity: 6qt / 5.7L
Cooking modes: Pressure cooker, slow cooker, rice cooker, steamer, sauté pan, yogurt maker, warmer, canning pot, sous vide, NutriBoost
Number of presets: 10
Reasons to buy
+ Control via an app Over 1,400 recipes Healthier NutriBoost setting
Reasons to avoid
- Basic design Very high price
The Rolls-Royce of Instant Pots, if you can imagine such a thing, is the Pro Pot Plus. The priciest option in the current Instant Pot line-up, coming in at $199.95 / £199.99, this top-end model stands out thanks to its smart app functionality that not only enables you to control it via your smartphone, but which also gives you access to a database of over 1,400 recipes so that you should never be stuck for ideas on what to cook.
Our reviewer found the recipe library to be a game-changer thanks to its ability to help her find uses for random ingredients she had to hand. She was also impressed by its 10 cooking functions, including a NutriBoost setting designed to lock in vitamins and enhance flavor, and she found it to be super-fast at pressure cooking.
The Pro Pot Plus looks good on your countertop with a sleek and unobtrusive design, and it'll cook up to six portions at once; its stainless steel cooking pot is dishwasher-safe, too. If you have the budget and feel you'll get a lot of benefit out of its smart features, it's well worth the investment.
Read our full Instant Pot Pro Plus Smart Multi-Cooker review
The best premium Instant Pot alternative
The best premium Instant Pot alternative
Specifications
Capacity: 8qt / 7.5L
Cooking modes: Pressure cook, air fry, grill, bake, dehydrate, prove, sear/ sauté, steam, slow cook, yogurt, steam meals, steam air fry, steam roast, steam bake, steam bread and keep warm
Number of presets: 0
Reasons to buy
+ Large capacity Wide range of cooking methods Built-in thermometer for perfect meats
Reasons to avoid
- Most expensive multi-cooker on the market to date Lacks presets for specific dishes
The 8-quart / 7.5-liter Ninja Foodi Max adds air frying, grilling/ broiling, and dehydrating, to the long list of cooking methods offered by the best Instant Pots. It even offers the ability to introduce steam when air frying, which when paired with the built-in thermometer, ensures you can cook the perfect steak in this multi-cooker.
On test, as well as excelling at steak, we were also impressed by the Ninja Foodi Max's ability to perfectly cook a variety of dishes, from beef chili to fries. The large capacity is ideal for those that have several mouths to feed, although the multi-cooker is bulky and takes up a lot of space on a countertop.
The Ninja Foodi Max doesn't have presets with defined temperatures and times for different dishes, as Instant Pots do. Instead, you'll need to refer to the cooking charts that come bundled with the multi-cooker and we found these to be comprehensive and very helpful.
Read our full Ninja Foodi Max 15-in-1 SmartLid Multi-Cooker review
The best Instant Pot for novices
The best Instant Pot for novices
Specifications
Capacity: 3qt / 2.8L, 6qt / 5.7L, 8qt / 7.6L
Cooking modes: pressure cook, slow cook, rice cooker, steam, sauté, reheat, yogurt maker
Number of presets: 15
Reasons to buy
+ Good range of cooking methods Dishwasher safe lid and pot Lid automatically seals for pressure cooking
Reasons to avoid
- Cooking pot doesn’t have handles Steam rack not ideal for most vegetables
If you’re looking for an Instant Pot that makes releasing the pressure at the end of cooking as easy and as safe as possible, then the Instant Pot Duo Nova is worth considering. It has a quick steam release switch, which is separate from the steam valve, and ensures you can force the pressure to be released in a safer way - perfect if you're new to pressure cooking. On top of that, the steam release valve automatically closes when you secure the lid. On test, we felt these features made pressure cooking uncomplicated and safe, so if pressure cooking makes you nervous, this is the Instant Pot for you.
With seven different cooking methods and 14 programs offering pre-defined cooking times, it’s very similar to the Instant Pot Duo (above) and while it speeds up lengthy cooking times, it’s not quite as quick as the Instant Pot Pro or the Instant Pot Duo Evo Plus. However the pot and lid are dishwasher safe, and it even comes with an additional sealing ring too.
The stainless-steel cooking pot doesn’t have handles, so we found it fiddly to lift in and out of the main body, and when steaming vegetables we found the florets of broccoli tended to slip through the gaps in the steaming rack, meaning they ended up soggy.
Read our full Instant Pot Duo Nova review
The most stylish Instant Pot alternative
The most stylish Instant Pot alternative
Specifications
Capacity: 6qt / 6L
Cooking modes: Pressure cook, slow cook, reduce, sear, sauté, and steam
Number of presets: 6
Reasons to buy
+ Stylish design Simple to use Six cooking functions
Reasons to avoid
- Can’t cook small quantities Hinged lid requires screwdriver for removal
Most Instant Pots and multi-cookers don't chart high in the style stakes but with a brushed stainless steel finish and a neat and streamlined design, the Breville the Fast Slow Pro (known in the UK as Sage the Fast Slow Pro) is certainly one of the better-looking multi-cookers we've tested.
Simple to use, it offers six cooking functions and you can either choose from a range of presets for dishes including stew, risotto, and rice or manually adjust the time and temperature to ensure the meal is cooked to perfection.
On test, we found the Breville the Fast Slow Pro cooked meat so it was tender and succulent, while vegetables and rice were cooked through but not soggy or mushy. However, you’ll need a screwdriver to remove the hinged lid if you want to clean it, and it has a minimum 1-quart/ 1-liter capacity, meaning we struggled to cook smaller quantities.
Read our full Breville the Fast Slow Pro review
A great multi-functional Instant Pot
A great multi-functional Instant Pot
Specifications
Capacity: 6qt / 5.7L and 8qt / 8L
Cooking modes: pressure cook, sauté, slow cook, steam, sous vide, keep warm, air fry, roast, bake, broil and dehydrate
Number of presets: 11
Reasons to buy
+ 11 cooking functions including air fry Large 8-quart/ 8-litre capacity Simple to use
Reasons to avoid
- Doesn’t come with steaming accessories as standard Cooking pot isn’t non-stick
The Instant Pot Duo Crisp & Air Fryer builds on the Instant Pot’s ability to pressure cook, slow cook, and steam with the addition of an extra lid that provides an air frying function that can roast and bake too.
It has a large 8-quart/8-liter capacity, making it great for those feeding several mouths or planning to batch-cook, and is simple to use, with 11 presets for different dishes.
On test, we were impressed by some of the dishes we cooked in the Instant Pot Duo Crisp & Air Fryer, however, when we followed Instant Pot’s recipe for chunky fries, they weren’t crisp enough for our taste.
The cooking pot isn't non-stick, so you will need some elbow grease when cleaning and if you want a rack for steaming vegetables on, you will have to purchase this separately, as it doesn't come bundled with the Instant Pot.
Read our full Instant Pot Duo Crisp & Air Fryer review
The best Instant Pot alternative for small quantities
The best Instant Pot alternative for smaller quantities
Specifications
Capacity: 6.5qt / 6qt
Cooking modes: Pressure cook, slow cook, steam, make yogurt, sear/sauté, air fry crisp, bake/roast, broil, dehydrate
Number of presets: 9
Reasons to buy
+ Wide range of cooking techniques Good choice of accessories Smaller capacity will suit couples and individuals
Reasons to avoid
- Bulky Struggled to make crisp, crunchy fries
With a smaller capacity than the Ninja Foodi Max, the Ninja Foodi Multi-cooker is best suited to couples or individuals that don't need to cook in larger quantities.
We were impressed with the dishes cooked when using the slow cooking and pressure cooking settings. When it came to air frying, it offered up the same air-fried chicken with crispy skin and succulent meat as its larger sibling but again left us disappointed with rock-hard fries.
It comes with a good choice of accessories including a 3.2L removable frying basket, grilling rack, and extra lid for when pressure cooking. However, it's one of the most cumbersome multi-cookers on the market. Its bulky lid opens to the side on a hinge meaning it can’t be fully opened while tucked underneath a kitchen cupboard so if space is at a premium it may not be the multi-cooker for you.
Read our full Ninja Foodi Multi-Cooker review
The most versatile Instant Pot
The most versatile Instant Pot
Specifications
Capacity: 6.5qt / 6.15L
Cooking mode: Air Fryer, Pressure Cooker, Sauté, Slow Cook, Steam, Warm, Roast, Bake, Broil, Dehydrate, Yogurt, Sous Vide, Bread Proofing
Number of presets: Not specified
Reasons to buy
+ Dishwasher-safe parts No extra lid to store Automatic pressure release
Reasons to avoid
- Cooking pot isn’t non-stick A lid insert has to be removed for air frying Steam function doesn’t work well for delicate vegetables
While it’s not particularly cheap, especially for its smaller capacity, the Instant Pot Duo Crisp with Ultimate Lid is one of the most versatile Instant options out there. To start, it has thirteen cooking functions on tap, including air frying and bread proofing. And, it does a wonderful job with most of them as well, though its steam function can be a bit too intense for some ingredients.
More than that, we found it to be easy to use, not to mention that it’s pretty stress-free when pressure cooking due to three different options for automatic pressure release. There are plenty of other safety features including some pretty thick sliding locks that need to be secured before using any cooking functions.
Clean-up is easy as well as the parts are dishwasher safe. However, we’re still surprised by the fact that the cooking pot isn’t non-stick, so you might have to give it a good soak between uses.
Read our full Instant Pot Duo Crisp with Ultimate Lid review
The best basic multi-cooker
(UK only) The best basic multi-cooker
Specifications
Capacity: 1.8L
Cooking modes: slow cook, bake and yogurt
Number of presets: 9
Reasons to buy
+ Extremely basic multi-cooker Compact Small capacity ideal for making 1 or 2 portions
Reasons to avoid
- Overflows if too full Few cooking options
If you're looking for a basic multi-cooker that makes slow cooking and pressure cooking for one a viable option, the Lakeland Mini Multi-Cooker is the perfect fit.
This compact machine strips it back to the bare essentials in a small, compact, and convenient model, that still covers rice, yogurt, porridge, and bread proving.
However, don't get too ambitious with those portion sizes – overdo it, and you'll be left with a messy overflow to clean up once your brew starts bubbling. Once we got to grips with the capacity though, we found it simple to use and efficient at cooking foods like rice, porridge, and quinoa. But it's the least versatile machine on this list, at least in terms of pre-set cooking options to work with.
Read our full Lakeland Mini Multi Cooker 1.8L review
How to choose the best instant pot for you
With such a wide array of models available when it comes to Instant Pots and multi-cookers, choosing the right one for you can be confusing.
Start by considering the different cooking methods offered by the best Instant Pots and multi-cookers, and the dishes you prepare most. While some offer a handful of cooking modes including pressure cooking and slow cooking, others including the Instant Pot Duo Evo Plus have as many as 48 different ways of cooking and can do everything including proving bread and making yogurt.
Next look at the capacity the Instant Pot can hold and whether it's sufficient for the number of people you have to cook for. Multi-cookers with a 6 quart / 5.7-liter capacity and above are ideal for those with a large family to feed, or those that want to batch-cook, while a smaller Instant Pot can hold around 3.2 quarts / 3 liters should suffice for an individual or couple.
On top of that, look out for Instant Pots and multi-cookers that have inner pots that can be used on the stove, when browning meat before slow cooking and are dishwasher safe to make sure you have as few utensils to wash up as possible.
Frequently asked questions about Instant Pots
Is an Instant Pot really worth it?
There’s no denying an Instant Pot is a great kitchen appliance but you may be wondering if it’s really worth it? Or will it simply end up as another kitchen gadget that languishes on your countertop gathering dust?
It’s important to remember that while Instant Pots offer a multitude of cooking methods, many of which means you no longer need to use an oven or a hob, they can’t cook everything. For example, they’re not an option if you regularly prepare pasta, noodles, or stir frys. And while some do come with lids that can air fry, we found making fries in an Instant Pot wasn’t as good as using one of the best air fryers.
At the same time, you can’t just pop the lid off and check the dish you’re cooking, as you would when using the hob, the oven, or a slow cooker. You’ll need to release the pressure, effectively stop cooking, and detach the lid. Then if the dish isn’t ready, you’ll need to start cooking again.
Similarly, an Instant Pot can certainly shave a few hours off cooking stews, ribs and other dishes that usually take the best part of a day to cook, however with dishes like rice or steaming vegetables the time saving is minimal, which may mean an Instant Pot isn’t worth the investment.
However, if you’re looking to save space in your kitchen by replacing several gadgets with just one, or you are looking to broaden the repertoire of dishes you cook, without having to research and learn new cooking skills, an Instant Pot will more than prove useful.
What's the best size instant pot?
Instant Pots and other multi-cookers come in an array of different capacities ranging from 3 quart / 3 liters right up to 8 quart / 7.5 liters, so knowing which size Instant Pot is best for you can be confusing.
For most people, the 6 quart / 5.7-liter size Instant Pot will prove to be the most useful. Instant say this capacity is enough to feed between three and size people depending upon your appetite, so will be ideal for families or those looking to batch cook meals for a handful of people.
The larger 8 quart / 7.5-liter size will be a better fit for bigger families, or anyone cooking on a large scale, such as creating chilies, stews, or curries for a party. Meanwhile, for one or two-person households the smaller 3-quart / 3 liter, Instant Pot will ensure you're not using additional energy by cooking a small quantity in an Instant Pot that's just too large for your needs.
It's worth remembering that not all models of Instant Pot are available in all sizes, so do check before deciding on the best model for you.
What can I cook in an Instant Pot?
The best Instant Pots offer a range of different cooking methods, which means there are a plethora of different dishes that can be created in Instant Pots and multi-cookers. Slow cooking means you can use cheaper but tougher cuts of meat and cook them low and slow to make casseroles and stews, while pressure cooking speeds up cooking times, making it great for ribs and chicken wings. However, you can even bake cakes - in particular, we found making cheesecake in an Instant Pot was very good, air fry foods like fries, and even hard-boiled eggs. You can find an extensive variety of recipes atinstantpot.com.
Instant Pot vs Ninja Foodi
Instant Pot and Ninja Foodi are two of the biggest names in the multi-cooker world and are regularly compared to see which is best. Both brands create a wide number of appliances including everything from air fryers to blenders.
As you might expect, the larger and more feature-heavy appliances from Instant Pot and Ninja Foodi are more expensive, but generally speaking, Ninja models are normally more expensive.
It’s also worth comparing how easy these machines are to clean. Ninja Foodi machines feature a cooking pot with a non-stick coating so you shouldn’t need to scrub for hours to get rid of any food. Instant Pots have stainless steel pots but both of the brands’ pots can be placed in a dishwasher.
We’ve compared these brands in detail, to find out which came out on top, read our Ninja Foodi vs Instant Pot feature.
How we tested these Instant Pots
To see how Instant Pots and multi-cookers stack up, we’ve spent hundreds of hours whipping up curries and chilies, preparing batches of rice, and even steaming portions of vegetables, comparing the end results. We’re looking for meat that falls off the bone but is still tender and succulent, rice that’s fluffy but still with some bite, and crisp vegetables. We’ve also compared how easy they are to use and just how much they speed up cooking.
We evaluate each model on how many different cooking methods it offers, how durable and easy to clean the body and parts are, how loud it is in use and when releasing pressure, and how hot the exterior casing gets. We’re also assessing how simple each multi-cooker is to use and whether you need to read the instruction manual before cooking, whether recipe inspiration is provided and the useful accessories such as racks and trays it comes with.
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Best Instant Pot: quick menu
The list in brief
1. Best overall
2. Best budget
3. Best premium
4. Premium alternative
5. Best for newbies
6. Most stylish
7. Best multi-functional
8. Best for small quantities
9. Most versatile
10. Best trimmed-down
How to choose
How we test
The best Instant Pots are versatile multi-cookers that combine slow cooking, pressure cooking, rice cooking, sautéeing, steaming, and more in one handy appliance. The original Instant Pot was an instant hit, and since its release the brand has brought out a succession of improved models with improved capabilities such as sous vide and even air frying, saving you the trouble of finding one of the best air fryers.
It hasn't taken long for other brands to take a bite out of Instant Pots' lunch, so in this guide you'll find similar options from other brands including Ninja Foodi and Breville. We've gathered together the very best models on the market today and arranged them so that you can quickly find the option that's best suited to your needs and budget. And we're also constantly looking for the best Instant Pot deals so you can get yours for the best possible price.
Once you've chosen your Instant Pot we'd recommend reading two more of our articles: how to cook hard-boiled eggs in an Instant Pot, because the results are so great they'll immediately make you glad you bought your appliance, and how to clean an Instant Pot, because while they're very easy to clean their seals can get a little whiffy if you cook a lot of heavily flavored food.
The quick list
1. Instant Pot Pro
Instant Pot for most
Replacing 10 cooking appliances in one package, this versatile multi-cooker may offer a lot, but it's also convenient with its one-touch programs as well as easy and safe to use. That's especially with its steam release method to minimizes accidental steam burns.
Read more below
2. Instant Pot Duo Plus
For the budget-minded
This reasonably-priced option is our best value pick due to its slew of functionalities that you'll find in its pricier counterparts. That includes a safe steam-release method and customizability of its preset buttons. Just bear in mind that it has fewer recipe presets than others.
Read more below
3. Instant Pot Pro Plus
Premium Instant Pot
If you can never figure out what to cook, this is the Instant Pot for you. The most expensive option in the range, it's a souped-up version of the Pro with an accompanying app that provides over 1,400 recipes as well as remote control via your smartphone.
Read more below
4. Ninja Foodi Max 15-in-1
Premium alternative
Cook the perfect meats and other meals with this multi-cooker from Ninja that not only offers a lot of cooking options but also has a large 8-qt capacity - perfect for bigger families. It's a little on the pricier side, but it's worth every penny.
Read more below
5. Instant Pot Duo Nova
Great for beginners
Offering 7 cooking methods and 14 pre-defined programs, there's a lot here that novice users can do. It's also easy to use, thanks to features that make it effortless and safe. The lid even automatically seals for you before cooking starts.
Read more below
6. Breville the Fast Slow Pro
Stylish and classy
One of the better-looking options on the market, this boasts a brushed stainless steel finish and a neat, streamlined design, making it a great option for those who like to keep a nice aesthetic. Looks-aside, it delivers tender and succulent results, making it a well-rounded package.
Read more below
Load the next four products...
7. Instant Pot Duo Crisp
Another great option
On top of its ability to pressure cook, this multi-cooker can also air fry, roast and bake, thanks to its air fryer lid that comes in the box. It has a big capacity as well, perfect for bigger groups. With that air frying function, you don't need another countertop appliance.
Read more below
8. Ninja Foodi Multi-Cooker
For small quantities
Couples and individuals who want to cook small batches of dishes might prefer this multi-cooker from Ninja. It's loaded with features, however, thanks to its wide range of cooking techniques and a decent number of accessories included in the box.
Read more below
9. Instant Pot Duo Crisp with Ultimate Lid
A slew of cooking functions
With thirteen cooking functions, including sous vide and bread proofing, this is the most versatile multi-cooker on the planet. It's also incredibly easy to use, thanks to its automatic pressure release. It has a smaller capacity, but that is hardly a deal-breaker.
Read more below
10. Lakeland Mini Multi Cooker
Simple but functional
A straightforward multi-cooker with the simplest operation may be the best option if you want something no-nonsense. Though stripped back to the bare essentials, it can still do a number of things including making yogurt and bread proving.
Read more below
The best Instant Pot multi-cookers 2024
The best Instant Pot overall
The best Instant Pot overall
Specifications
Capacity: 6qt / 6L or 8qt / 8L
Cooking modes: pressure cook, slow cook, rice cooker, steam, sauté, sous vide, reheat, yogurt maker, sterilizer, cake maker
Number of presets: 28
Reasons to buy
+ Five one-touch favorite settings Wide array of cooking methods Inner pot can be heated on all stovetop types
Reasons to avoid
- No recipe book or cooking charts included Steam rack unsuitable for vegetables
The Instant Pot Pro is the best Instant Pot you can buy right now. It sets out to replace ten kitchen appliances including a pressure cooker, slow cooker, saute pan, rice cooker, steamer, yogurt maker, and warmer, and has 28 cooking modes for preparing different dishes. There's also a version that can air fry too, known as the Instant Pot Pro Crisp.
We were impressed the Instant Pot Pro also has five buttons that allow you to store your favorite settings for recipes you make regularly, giving you the convenience of the one-touch programs but for your own custom recipes.
The inner pot can be used on the stovetop to sear food before cooking, too, and has handles, so you can take the pot straight to the table. On top of that, the steam release switch is one of the easiest and safest steam release methods we’ve used when testing the pressure cook function on a multi-cooker and the steam valve has a cover to reduce splashes and noise too.
However there’s no recipe book or cooking charts included, which means using the Instant Pot does require some experimentation and in our tests, broccoli florets fell through the steaming rack, so to steam vegetables, you'll need to buy an additional accessory. But overall we found it easy to use and it can produce a great meal.
Read our full Instant Pot Pro review
The best budget Instant Pot
The best budget Instant Pot
Specifications
Capacity: 3qt / 3L (US only), 6qt / 5.7L, 8qt /L
Cooking modes: Pressure cook, slow cook, rice cooker, yogurt maker, steamer, sauté pan, yogurt maker, sterilizer, food warmer
Number of presets: 15
Reasons to buy
+ Safer steam release Intuitive to use Available in more than one size
Reasons to avoid
- Fewer recipe presets than some other Instant Pots Top of lid can get very hot No steam cook function
While not necessarily the cheapest Instant Pot out there, the Instant Pot Duo Plus is still very reasonably priced while offering a lot of functionality, making it one of the best options out there for people on a budget. But, beyond the multiple cooking modes and presets, we really appreciated the safety features, particularly the fact that you can release steam with a flick of a switch. No need to put your hand near a hot valve.
We also liked the fact that it’s available in multiple sizes, so different sized households can make the most out of this model’s combination of price and performance. However, we do find it a bit light on presets compared to a lot of Instant Pots, though at least they’re easily customizable. Also, be aware that there’s no air fryer functionality on here. So, if you want a multi-cooker to replace all your other kitchen appliances, this might not be the one.
That said, the results of what the Instant Pot Duo Plus can do, whether it’s rice, Thai curry, or chili, are as good as its price tag is low.
Read our full Instant Pot Duo Plus review
The best premium Instant Pot
The best premium Instant Pot
Specifications
Capacity: 6qt / 5.7L
Cooking modes: Pressure cooker, slow cooker, rice cooker, steamer, sauté pan, yogurt maker, warmer, canning pot, sous vide, NutriBoost
Number of presets: 10
Reasons to buy
+ Control via an app Over 1,400 recipes Healthier NutriBoost setting
Reasons to avoid
- Basic design Very high price
The Rolls-Royce of Instant Pots, if you can imagine such a thing, is the Pro Pot Plus. The priciest option in the current Instant Pot line-up, coming in at $199.95 / £199.99, this top-end model stands out thanks to its smart app functionality that not only enables you to control it via your smartphone, but which also gives you access to a database of over 1,400 recipes so that you should never be stuck for ideas on what to cook.
Our reviewer found the recipe library to be a game-changer thanks to its ability to help her find uses for random ingredients she had to hand. She was also impressed by its 10 cooking functions, including a NutriBoost setting designed to lock in vitamins and enhance flavor, and she found it to be super-fast at pressure cooking.
The Pro Pot Plus looks good on your countertop with a sleek and unobtrusive design, and it'll cook up to six portions at once; its stainless steel cooking pot is dishwasher-safe, too. If you have the budget and feel you'll get a lot of benefit out of its smart features, it's well worth the investment.
Read our full Instant Pot Pro Plus Smart Multi-Cooker review
The best premium Instant Pot alternative
The best premium Instant Pot alternative
Specifications
Capacity: 8qt / 7.5L
Cooking modes: Pressure cook, air fry, grill, bake, dehydrate, prove, sear/ sauté, steam, slow cook, yogurt, steam meals, steam air fry, steam roast, steam bake, steam bread and keep warm
Number of presets: 0
Reasons to buy
+ Large capacity Wide range of cooking methods Built-in thermometer for perfect meats
Reasons to avoid
- Most expensive multi-cooker on the market to date Lacks presets for specific dishes
The 8-quart / 7.5-liter Ninja Foodi Max adds air frying, grilling/ broiling, and dehydrating, to the long list of cooking methods offered by the best Instant Pots. It even offers the ability to introduce steam when air frying, which when paired with the built-in thermometer, ensures you can cook the perfect steak in this multi-cooker.
On test, as well as excelling at steak, we were also impressed by the Ninja Foodi Max's ability to perfectly cook a variety of dishes, from beef chili to fries. The large capacity is ideal for those that have several mouths to feed, although the multi-cooker is bulky and takes up a lot of space on a countertop.
The Ninja Foodi Max doesn't have presets with defined temperatures and times for different dishes, as Instant Pots do. Instead, you'll need to refer to the cooking charts that come bundled with the multi-cooker and we found these to be comprehensive and very helpful.
Read our full Ninja Foodi Max 15-in-1 SmartLid Multi-Cooker review
The best Instant Pot for novices
The best Instant Pot for novices
Specifications
Capacity: 3qt / 2.8L, 6qt / 5.7L, 8qt / 7.6L
Cooking modes: pressure cook, slow cook, rice cooker, steam, sauté, reheat, yogurt maker
Number of presets: 15
Reasons to buy
+ Good range of cooking methods Dishwasher safe lid and pot Lid automatically seals for pressure cooking
Reasons to avoid
- Cooking pot doesn’t have handles Steam rack not ideal for most vegetables
If you’re looking for an Instant Pot that makes releasing the pressure at the end of cooking as easy and as safe as possible, then the Instant Pot Duo Nova is worth considering. It has a quick steam release switch, which is separate from the steam valve, and ensures you can force the pressure to be released in a safer way - perfect if you're new to pressure cooking. On top of that, the steam release valve automatically closes when you secure the lid. On test, we felt these features made pressure cooking uncomplicated and safe, so if pressure cooking makes you nervous, this is the Instant Pot for you.
With seven different cooking methods and 14 programs offering pre-defined cooking times, it’s very similar to the Instant Pot Duo (above) and while it speeds up lengthy cooking times, it’s not quite as quick as the Instant Pot Pro or the Instant Pot Duo Evo Plus. However the pot and lid are dishwasher safe, and it even comes with an additional sealing ring too.
The stainless-steel cooking pot doesn’t have handles, so we found it fiddly to lift in and out of the main body, and when steaming vegetables we found the florets of broccoli tended to slip through the gaps in the steaming rack, meaning they ended up soggy.
Read our full Instant Pot Duo Nova review
The most stylish Instant Pot alternative
The most stylish Instant Pot alternative
Specifications
Capacity: 6qt / 6L
Cooking modes: Pressure cook, slow cook, reduce, sear, sauté, and steam
Number of presets: 6
Reasons to buy
+ Stylish design Simple to use Six cooking functions
Reasons to avoid
- Can’t cook small quantities Hinged lid requires screwdriver for removal
Most Instant Pots and multi-cookers don't chart high in the style stakes but with a brushed stainless steel finish and a neat and streamlined design, the Breville the Fast Slow Pro (known in the UK as Sage the Fast Slow Pro) is certainly one of the better-looking multi-cookers we've tested.
Simple to use, it offers six cooking functions and you can either choose from a range of presets for dishes including stew, risotto, and rice or manually adjust the time and temperature to ensure the meal is cooked to perfection.
On test, we found the Breville the Fast Slow Pro cooked meat so it was tender and succulent, while vegetables and rice were cooked through but not soggy or mushy. However, you’ll need a screwdriver to remove the hinged lid if you want to clean it, and it has a minimum 1-quart/ 1-liter capacity, meaning we struggled to cook smaller quantities.
Read our full Breville the Fast Slow Pro review
A great multi-functional Instant Pot
A great multi-functional Instant Pot
Specifications
Capacity: 6qt / 5.7L and 8qt / 8L
Cooking modes: pressure cook, sauté, slow cook, steam, sous vide, keep warm, air fry, roast, bake, broil and dehydrate
Number of presets: 11
Reasons to buy
+ 11 cooking functions including air fry Large 8-quart/ 8-litre capacity Simple to use
Reasons to avoid
- Doesn’t come with steaming accessories as standard Cooking pot isn’t non-stick
The Instant Pot Duo Crisp & Air Fryer builds on the Instant Pot’s ability to pressure cook, slow cook, and steam with the addition of an extra lid that provides an air frying function that can roast and bake too.
It has a large 8-quart/8-liter capacity, making it great for those feeding several mouths or planning to batch-cook, and is simple to use, with 11 presets for different dishes.
On test, we were impressed by some of the dishes we cooked in the Instant Pot Duo Crisp & Air Fryer, however, when we followed Instant Pot’s recipe for chunky fries, they weren’t crisp enough for our taste.
The cooking pot isn't non-stick, so you will need some elbow grease when cleaning and if you want a rack for steaming vegetables on, you will have to purchase this separately, as it doesn't come bundled with the Instant Pot.
Read our full Instant Pot Duo Crisp & Air Fryer review
The best Instant Pot alternative for small quantities
The best Instant Pot alternative for smaller quantities
Specifications
Capacity: 6.5qt / 6qt
Cooking modes: Pressure cook, slow cook, steam, make yogurt, sear/sauté, air fry crisp, bake/roast, broil, dehydrate
Number of presets: 9
Reasons to buy
+ Wide range of cooking techniques Good choice of accessories Smaller capacity will suit couples and individuals
Reasons to avoid
- Bulky Struggled to make crisp, crunchy fries
With a smaller capacity than the Ninja Foodi Max, the Ninja Foodi Multi-cooker is best suited to couples or individuals that don't need to cook in larger quantities.
We were impressed with the dishes cooked when using the slow cooking and pressure cooking settings. When it came to air frying, it offered up the same air-fried chicken with crispy skin and succulent meat as its larger sibling but again left us disappointed with rock-hard fries.
It comes with a good choice of accessories including a 3.2L removable frying basket, grilling rack, and extra lid for when pressure cooking. However, it's one of the most cumbersome multi-cookers on the market. Its bulky lid opens to the side on a hinge meaning it can’t be fully opened while tucked underneath a kitchen cupboard so if space is at a premium it may not be the multi-cooker for you.
Read our full Ninja Foodi Multi-Cooker review
The most versatile Instant Pot
The most versatile Instant Pot
Specifications
Capacity: 6.5qt / 6.15L
Cooking mode: Air Fryer, Pressure Cooker, Sauté, Slow Cook, Steam, Warm, Roast, Bake, Broil, Dehydrate, Yogurt, Sous Vide, Bread Proofing
Number of presets: Not specified
Reasons to buy
+ Dishwasher-safe parts No extra lid to store Automatic pressure release
Reasons to avoid
- Cooking pot isn’t non-stick A lid insert has to be removed for air frying Steam function doesn’t work well for delicate vegetables
While it’s not particularly cheap, especially for its smaller capacity, the Instant Pot Duo Crisp with Ultimate Lid is one of the most versatile Instant options out there. To start, it has thirteen cooking functions on tap, including air frying and bread proofing. And, it does a wonderful job with most of them as well, though its steam function can be a bit too intense for some ingredients.
More than that, we found it to be easy to use, not to mention that it’s pretty stress-free when pressure cooking due to three different options for automatic pressure release. There are plenty of other safety features including some pretty thick sliding locks that need to be secured before using any cooking functions.
Clean-up is easy as well as the parts are dishwasher safe. However, we’re still surprised by the fact that the cooking pot isn’t non-stick, so you might have to give it a good soak between uses.
Read our full Instant Pot Duo Crisp with Ultimate Lid review
The best basic multi-cooker
(UK only) The best basic multi-cooker
Specifications
Capacity: 1.8L
Cooking modes: slow cook, bake and yogurt
Number of presets: 9
Reasons to buy
+ Extremely basic multi-cooker Compact Small capacity ideal for making 1 or 2 portions
Reasons to avoid
- Overflows if too full Few cooking options
If you're looking for a basic multi-cooker that makes slow cooking and pressure cooking for one a viable option, the Lakeland Mini Multi-Cooker is the perfect fit.
This compact machine strips it back to the bare essentials in a small, compact, and convenient model, that still covers rice, yogurt, porridge, and bread proving.
However, don't get too ambitious with those portion sizes – overdo it, and you'll be left with a messy overflow to clean up once your brew starts bubbling. Once we got to grips with the capacity though, we found it simple to use and efficient at cooking foods like rice, porridge, and quinoa. But it's the least versatile machine on this list, at least in terms of pre-set cooking options to work with.
Read our full Lakeland Mini Multi Cooker 1.8L review
How to choose the best instant pot for you
With such a wide array of models available when it comes to Instant Pots and multi-cookers, choosing the right one for you can be confusing.
Start by considering the different cooking methods offered by the best Instant Pots and multi-cookers, and the dishes you prepare most. While some offer a handful of cooking modes including pressure cooking and slow cooking, others including the Instant Pot Duo Evo Plus have as many as 48 different ways of cooking and can do everything including proving bread and making yogurt.
Next look at the capacity the Instant Pot can hold and whether it's sufficient for the number of people you have to cook for. Multi-cookers with a 6 quart / 5.7-liter capacity and above are ideal for those with a large family to feed, or those that want to batch-cook, while a smaller Instant Pot can hold around 3.2 quarts / 3 liters should suffice for an individual or couple.
On top of that, look out for Instant Pots and multi-cookers that have inner pots that can be used on the stove, when browning meat before slow cooking and are dishwasher safe to make sure you have as few utensils to wash up as possible.
Frequently asked questions about Instant Pots
Is an Instant Pot really worth it?
There’s no denying an Instant Pot is a great kitchen appliance but you may be wondering if it’s really worth it? Or will it simply end up as another kitchen gadget that languishes on your countertop gathering dust?
It’s important to remember that while Instant Pots offer a multitude of cooking methods, many of which means you no longer need to use an oven or a hob, they can’t cook everything. For example, they’re not an option if you regularly prepare pasta, noodles, or stir frys. And while some do come with lids that can air fry, we found making fries in an Instant Pot wasn’t as good as using one of the best air fryers.
At the same time, you can’t just pop the lid off and check the dish you’re cooking, as you would when using the hob, the oven, or a slow cooker. You’ll need to release the pressure, effectively stop cooking, and detach the lid. Then if the dish isn’t ready, you’ll need to start cooking again.
Similarly, an Instant Pot can certainly shave a few hours off cooking stews, ribs and other dishes that usually take the best part of a day to cook, however with dishes like rice or steaming vegetables the time saving is minimal, which may mean an Instant Pot isn’t worth the investment.
However, if you’re looking to save space in your kitchen by replacing several gadgets with just one, or you are looking to broaden the repertoire of dishes you cook, without having to research and learn new cooking skills, an Instant Pot will more than prove useful.
What's the best size instant pot?
Instant Pots and other multi-cookers come in an array of different capacities ranging from 3 quart / 3 liters right up to 8 quart / 7.5 liters, so knowing which size Instant Pot is best for you can be confusing.
For most people, the 6 quart / 5.7-liter size Instant Pot will prove to be the most useful. Instant say this capacity is enough to feed between three and size people depending upon your appetite, so will be ideal for families or those looking to batch cook meals for a handful of people.
The larger 8 quart / 7.5-liter size will be a better fit for bigger families, or anyone cooking on a large scale, such as creating chilies, stews, or curries for a party. Meanwhile, for one or two-person households the smaller 3-quart / 3 liter, Instant Pot will ensure you're not using additional energy by cooking a small quantity in an Instant Pot that's just too large for your needs.
It's worth remembering that not all models of Instant Pot are available in all sizes, so do check before deciding on the best model for you.
What can I cook in an Instant Pot?
The best Instant Pots offer a range of different cooking methods, which means there are a plethora of different dishes that can be created in Instant Pots and multi-cookers. Slow cooking means you can use cheaper but tougher cuts of meat and cook them low and slow to make casseroles and stews, while pressure cooking speeds up cooking times, making it great for ribs and chicken wings. However, you can even bake cakes - in particular, we found making cheesecake in an Instant Pot was very good, air fry foods like fries, and even hard-boiled eggs. You can find an extensive variety of recipes atinstantpot.com.
Instant Pot vs Ninja Foodi
Instant Pot and Ninja Foodi are two of the biggest names in the multi-cooker world and are regularly compared to see which is best. Both brands create a wide number of appliances including everything from air fryers to blenders.
As you might expect, the larger and more feature-heavy appliances from Instant Pot and Ninja Foodi are more expensive, but generally speaking, Ninja models are normally more expensive.
It’s also worth comparing how easy these machines are to clean. Ninja Foodi machines feature a cooking pot with a non-stick coating so you shouldn’t need to scrub for hours to get rid of any food. Instant Pots have stainless steel pots but both of the brands’ pots can be placed in a dishwasher.
We’ve compared these brands in detail, to find out which came out on top, read our Ninja Foodi vs Instant Pot feature.
How we tested these Instant Pots
To see how Instant Pots and multi-cookers stack up, we’ve spent hundreds of hours whipping up curries and chilies, preparing batches of rice, and even steaming portions of vegetables, comparing the end results. We’re looking for meat that falls off the bone but is still tender and succulent, rice that’s fluffy but still with some bite, and crisp vegetables. We’ve also compared how easy they are to use and just how much they speed up cooking.
We evaluate each model on how many different cooking methods it offers, how durable and easy to clean the body and parts are, how loud it is in use and when releasing pressure, and how hot the exterior casing gets. We’re also assessing how simple each multi-cooker is to use and whether you need to read the instruction manual before cooking, whether recipe inspiration is provided and the useful accessories such as racks and trays it comes with.
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Best Instant Pot: quick menu
The list in brief
1. Best overall
2. Best budget
3. Best premium
4. Premium alternative
5. Best for newbies
6. Most stylish
7. Best multi-functional
8. Best for small quantities
9. Most versatile
10. Best trimmed-down
How to choose
How we test
The best Instant Pots are versatile multi-cookers that combine slow cooking, pressure cooking, rice cooking, sautéeing, steaming, and more in one handy appliance. The original Instant Pot was an instant hit, and since its release the brand has brought out a succession of improved models with improved capabilities such as sous vide and even air frying, saving you the trouble of finding one of the best air fryers.
It hasn't taken long for other brands to take a bite out of Instant Pots' lunch, so in this guide you'll find similar options from other brands including Ninja Foodi and Breville. We've gathered together the very best models on the market today and arranged them so that you can quickly find the option that's best suited to your needs and budget. And we're also constantly looking for the best Instant Pot deals so you can get yours for the best possible price.
Once you've chosen your Instant Pot we'd recommend reading two more of our articles: how to cook hard-boiled eggs in an Instant Pot, because the results are so great they'll immediately make you glad you bought your appliance, and how to clean an Instant Pot, because while they're very easy to clean their seals can get a little whiffy if you cook a lot of heavily flavored food.
The quick list
1. Instant Pot Pro
Instant Pot for most
Replacing 10 cooking appliances in one package, this versatile multi-cooker may offer a lot, but it's also convenient with its one-touch programs as well as easy and safe to use. That's especially with its steam release method to minimizes accidental steam burns.
Read more below
2. Instant Pot Duo Plus
For the budget-minded
This reasonably-priced option is our best value pick due to its slew of functionalities that you'll find in its pricier counterparts. That includes a safe steam-release method and customizability of its preset buttons. Just bear in mind that it has fewer recipe presets than others.
Read more below
3. Instant Pot Pro Plus
Premium Instant Pot
If you can never figure out what to cook, this is the Instant Pot for you. The most expensive option in the range, it's a souped-up version of the Pro with an accompanying app that provides over 1,400 recipes as well as remote control via your smartphone.
Read more below
4. Ninja Foodi Max 15-in-1
Premium alternative
Cook the perfect meats and other meals with this multi-cooker from Ninja that not only offers a lot of cooking options but also has a large 8-qt capacity - perfect for bigger families. It's a little on the pricier side, but it's worth every penny.
Read more below
5. Instant Pot Duo Nova
Great for beginners
Offering 7 cooking methods and 14 pre-defined programs, there's a lot here that novice users can do. It's also easy to use, thanks to features that make it effortless and safe. The lid even automatically seals for you before cooking starts.
Read more below
6. Breville the Fast Slow Pro
Stylish and classy
One of the better-looking options on the market, this boasts a brushed stainless steel finish and a neat, streamlined design, making it a great option for those who like to keep a nice aesthetic. Looks-aside, it delivers tender and succulent results, making it a well-rounded package.
Read more below
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7. Instant Pot Duo Crisp
Another great option
On top of its ability to pressure cook, this multi-cooker can also air fry, roast and bake, thanks to its air fryer lid that comes in the box. It has a big capacity as well, perfect for bigger groups. With that air frying function, you don't need another countertop appliance.
Read more below
8. Ninja Foodi Multi-Cooker
For small quantities
Couples and individuals who want to cook small batches of dishes might prefer this multi-cooker from Ninja. It's loaded with features, however, thanks to its wide range of cooking techniques and a decent number of accessories included in the box.
Read more below
9. Instant Pot Duo Crisp with Ultimate Lid
A slew of cooking functions
With thirteen cooking functions, including sous vide and bread proofing, this is the most versatile multi-cooker on the planet. It's also incredibly easy to use, thanks to its automatic pressure release. It has a smaller capacity, but that is hardly a deal-breaker.
Read more below
10. Lakeland Mini Multi Cooker
Simple but functional
A straightforward multi-cooker with the simplest operation may be the best option if you want something no-nonsense. Though stripped back to the bare essentials, it can still do a number of things including making yogurt and bread proving.
Read more below
The best Instant Pot multi-cookers 2024
The best Instant Pot overall
The best Instant Pot overall
Specifications
Capacity: 6qt / 6L or 8qt / 8L
Cooking modes: pressure cook, slow cook, rice cooker, steam, sauté, sous vide, reheat, yogurt maker, sterilizer, cake maker
Number of presets: 28
Reasons to buy
+ Five one-touch favorite settings Wide array of cooking methods Inner pot can be heated on all stovetop types
Reasons to avoid
- No recipe book or cooking charts included Steam rack unsuitable for vegetables
The Instant Pot Pro is the best Instant Pot you can buy right now. It sets out to replace ten kitchen appliances including a pressure cooker, slow cooker, saute pan, rice cooker, steamer, yogurt maker, and warmer, and has 28 cooking modes for preparing different dishes. There's also a version that can air fry too, known as the Instant Pot Pro Crisp.
We were impressed the Instant Pot Pro also has five buttons that allow you to store your favorite settings for recipes you make regularly, giving you the convenience of the one-touch programs but for your own custom recipes.
The inner pot can be used on the stovetop to sear food before cooking, too, and has handles, so you can take the pot straight to the table. On top of that, the steam release switch is one of the easiest and safest steam release methods we’ve used when testing the pressure cook function on a multi-cooker and the steam valve has a cover to reduce splashes and noise too.
However there’s no recipe book or cooking charts included, which means using the Instant Pot does require some experimentation and in our tests, broccoli florets fell through the steaming rack, so to steam vegetables, you'll need to buy an additional accessory. But overall we found it easy to use and it can produce a great meal.
Read our full Instant Pot Pro review
The best budget Instant Pot
The best budget Instant Pot
Specifications
Capacity: 3qt / 3L (US only), 6qt / 5.7L, 8qt /L
Cooking modes: Pressure cook, slow cook, rice cooker, yogurt maker, steamer, sauté pan, yogurt maker, sterilizer, food warmer
Number of presets: 15
Reasons to buy
+ Safer steam release Intuitive to use Available in more than one size
Reasons to avoid
- Fewer recipe presets than some other Instant Pots Top of lid can get very hot No steam cook function
While not necessarily the cheapest Instant Pot out there, the Instant Pot Duo Plus is still very reasonably priced while offering a lot of functionality, making it one of the best options out there for people on a budget. But, beyond the multiple cooking modes and presets, we really appreciated the safety features, particularly the fact that you can release steam with a flick of a switch. No need to put your hand near a hot valve.
We also liked the fact that it’s available in multiple sizes, so different sized households can make the most out of this model’s combination of price and performance. However, we do find it a bit light on presets compared to a lot of Instant Pots, though at least they’re easily customizable. Also, be aware that there’s no air fryer functionality on here. So, if you want a multi-cooker to replace all your other kitchen appliances, this might not be the one.
That said, the results of what the Instant Pot Duo Plus can do, whether it’s rice, Thai curry, or chili, are as good as its price tag is low.
Read our full Instant Pot Duo Plus review
The best premium Instant Pot
The best premium Instant Pot
Specifications
Capacity: 6qt / 5.7L
Cooking modes: Pressure cooker, slow cooker, rice cooker, steamer, sauté pan, yogurt maker, warmer, canning pot, sous vide, NutriBoost
Number of presets: 10
Reasons to buy
+ Control via an app Over 1,400 recipes Healthier NutriBoost setting
Reasons to avoid
- Basic design Very high price
The Rolls-Royce of Instant Pots, if you can imagine such a thing, is the Pro Pot Plus. The priciest option in the current Instant Pot line-up, coming in at $199.95 / £199.99, this top-end model stands out thanks to its smart app functionality that not only enables you to control it via your smartphone, but which also gives you access to a database of over 1,400 recipes so that you should never be stuck for ideas on what to cook.
Our reviewer found the recipe library to be a game-changer thanks to its ability to help her find uses for random ingredients she had to hand. She was also impressed by its 10 cooking functions, including a NutriBoost setting designed to lock in vitamins and enhance flavor, and she found it to be super-fast at pressure cooking.
The Pro Pot Plus looks good on your countertop with a sleek and unobtrusive design, and it'll cook up to six portions at once; its stainless steel cooking pot is dishwasher-safe, too. If you have the budget and feel you'll get a lot of benefit out of its smart features, it's well worth the investment.
Read our full Instant Pot Pro Plus Smart Multi-Cooker review
The best premium Instant Pot alternative
The best premium Instant Pot alternative
Specifications
Capacity: 8qt / 7.5L
Cooking modes: Pressure cook, air fry, grill, bake, dehydrate, prove, sear/ sauté, steam, slow cook, yogurt, steam meals, steam air fry, steam roast, steam bake, steam bread and keep warm
Number of presets: 0
Reasons to buy
+ Large capacity Wide range of cooking methods Built-in thermometer for perfect meats
Reasons to avoid
- Most expensive multi-cooker on the market to date Lacks presets for specific dishes
The 8-quart / 7.5-liter Ninja Foodi Max adds air frying, grilling/ broiling, and dehydrating, to the long list of cooking methods offered by the best Instant Pots. It even offers the ability to introduce steam when air frying, which when paired with the built-in thermometer, ensures you can cook the perfect steak in this multi-cooker.
On test, as well as excelling at steak, we were also impressed by the Ninja Foodi Max's ability to perfectly cook a variety of dishes, from beef chili to fries. The large capacity is ideal for those that have several mouths to feed, although the multi-cooker is bulky and takes up a lot of space on a countertop.
The Ninja Foodi Max doesn't have presets with defined temperatures and times for different dishes, as Instant Pots do. Instead, you'll need to refer to the cooking charts that come bundled with the multi-cooker and we found these to be comprehensive and very helpful.
Read our full Ninja Foodi Max 15-in-1 SmartLid Multi-Cooker review
The best Instant Pot for novices
The best Instant Pot for novices
Specifications
Capacity: 3qt / 2.8L, 6qt / 5.7L, 8qt / 7.6L
Cooking modes: pressure cook, slow cook, rice cooker, steam, sauté, reheat, yogurt maker
Number of presets: 15
Reasons to buy
+ Good range of cooking methods Dishwasher safe lid and pot Lid automatically seals for pressure cooking
Reasons to avoid
- Cooking pot doesn’t have handles Steam rack not ideal for most vegetables
If you’re looking for an Instant Pot that makes releasing the pressure at the end of cooking as easy and as safe as possible, then the Instant Pot Duo Nova is worth considering. It has a quick steam release switch, which is separate from the steam valve, and ensures you can force the pressure to be released in a safer way - perfect if you're new to pressure cooking. On top of that, the steam release valve automatically closes when you secure the lid. On test, we felt these features made pressure cooking uncomplicated and safe, so if pressure cooking makes you nervous, this is the Instant Pot for you.
With seven different cooking methods and 14 programs offering pre-defined cooking times, it’s very similar to the Instant Pot Duo (above) and while it speeds up lengthy cooking times, it’s not quite as quick as the Instant Pot Pro or the Instant Pot Duo Evo Plus. However the pot and lid are dishwasher safe, and it even comes with an additional sealing ring too.
The stainless-steel cooking pot doesn’t have handles, so we found it fiddly to lift in and out of the main body, and when steaming vegetables we found the florets of broccoli tended to slip through the gaps in the steaming rack, meaning they ended up soggy.
Read our full Instant Pot Duo Nova review
The most stylish Instant Pot alternative
The most stylish Instant Pot alternative
Specifications
Capacity: 6qt / 6L
Cooking modes: Pressure cook, slow cook, reduce, sear, sauté, and steam
Number of presets: 6
Reasons to buy
+ Stylish design Simple to use Six cooking functions
Reasons to avoid
- Can’t cook small quantities Hinged lid requires screwdriver for removal
Most Instant Pots and multi-cookers don't chart high in the style stakes but with a brushed stainless steel finish and a neat and streamlined design, the Breville the Fast Slow Pro (known in the UK as Sage the Fast Slow Pro) is certainly one of the better-looking multi-cookers we've tested.
Simple to use, it offers six cooking functions and you can either choose from a range of presets for dishes including stew, risotto, and rice or manually adjust the time and temperature to ensure the meal is cooked to perfection.
On test, we found the Breville the Fast Slow Pro cooked meat so it was tender and succulent, while vegetables and rice were cooked through but not soggy or mushy. However, you’ll need a screwdriver to remove the hinged lid if you want to clean it, and it has a minimum 1-quart/ 1-liter capacity, meaning we struggled to cook smaller quantities.
Read our full Breville the Fast Slow Pro review
A great multi-functional Instant Pot
A great multi-functional Instant Pot
Specifications
Capacity: 6qt / 5.7L and 8qt / 8L
Cooking modes: pressure cook, sauté, slow cook, steam, sous vide, keep warm, air fry, roast, bake, broil and dehydrate
Number of presets: 11
Reasons to buy
+ 11 cooking functions including air fry Large 8-quart/ 8-litre capacity Simple to use
Reasons to avoid
- Doesn’t come with steaming accessories as standard Cooking pot isn’t non-stick
The Instant Pot Duo Crisp & Air Fryer builds on the Instant Pot’s ability to pressure cook, slow cook, and steam with the addition of an extra lid that provides an air frying function that can roast and bake too.
It has a large 8-quart/8-liter capacity, making it great for those feeding several mouths or planning to batch-cook, and is simple to use, with 11 presets for different dishes.
On test, we were impressed by some of the dishes we cooked in the Instant Pot Duo Crisp & Air Fryer, however, when we followed Instant Pot’s recipe for chunky fries, they weren’t crisp enough for our taste.
The cooking pot isn't non-stick, so you will need some elbow grease when cleaning and if you want a rack for steaming vegetables on, you will have to purchase this separately, as it doesn't come bundled with the Instant Pot.
Read our full Instant Pot Duo Crisp & Air Fryer review
The best Instant Pot alternative for small quantities
The best Instant Pot alternative for smaller quantities
Specifications
Capacity: 6.5qt / 6qt
Cooking modes: Pressure cook, slow cook, steam, make yogurt, sear/sauté, air fry crisp, bake/roast, broil, dehydrate
Number of presets: 9
Reasons to buy
+ Wide range of cooking techniques Good choice of accessories Smaller capacity will suit couples and individuals
Reasons to avoid
- Bulky Struggled to make crisp, crunchy fries
With a smaller capacity than the Ninja Foodi Max, the Ninja Foodi Multi-cooker is best suited to couples or individuals that don't need to cook in larger quantities.
We were impressed with the dishes cooked when using the slow cooking and pressure cooking settings. When it came to air frying, it offered up the same air-fried chicken with crispy skin and succulent meat as its larger sibling but again left us disappointed with rock-hard fries.
It comes with a good choice of accessories including a 3.2L removable frying basket, grilling rack, and extra lid for when pressure cooking. However, it's one of the most cumbersome multi-cookers on the market. Its bulky lid opens to the side on a hinge meaning it can’t be fully opened while tucked underneath a kitchen cupboard so if space is at a premium it may not be the multi-cooker for you.
Read our full Ninja Foodi Multi-Cooker review
The most versatile Instant Pot
The most versatile Instant Pot
Specifications
Capacity: 6.5qt / 6.15L
Cooking mode: Air Fryer, Pressure Cooker, Sauté, Slow Cook, Steam, Warm, Roast, Bake, Broil, Dehydrate, Yogurt, Sous Vide, Bread Proofing
Number of presets: Not specified
Reasons to buy
+ Dishwasher-safe parts No extra lid to store Automatic pressure release
Reasons to avoid
- Cooking pot isn’t non-stick A lid insert has to be removed for air frying Steam function doesn’t work well for delicate vegetables
While it’s not particularly cheap, especially for its smaller capacity, the Instant Pot Duo Crisp with Ultimate Lid is one of the most versatile Instant options out there. To start, it has thirteen cooking functions on tap, including air frying and bread proofing. And, it does a wonderful job with most of them as well, though its steam function can be a bit too intense for some ingredients.
More than that, we found it to be easy to use, not to mention that it’s pretty stress-free when pressure cooking due to three different options for automatic pressure release. There are plenty of other safety features including some pretty thick sliding locks that need to be secured before using any cooking functions.
Clean-up is easy as well as the parts are dishwasher safe. However, we’re still surprised by the fact that the cooking pot isn’t non-stick, so you might have to give it a good soak between uses.
Read our full Instant Pot Duo Crisp with Ultimate Lid review
The best basic multi-cooker
(UK only) The best basic multi-cooker
Specifications
Capacity: 1.8L
Cooking modes: slow cook, bake and yogurt
Number of presets: 9
Reasons to buy
+ Extremely basic multi-cooker Compact Small capacity ideal for making 1 or 2 portions
Reasons to avoid
- Overflows if too full Few cooking options
If you're looking for a basic multi-cooker that makes slow cooking and pressure cooking for one a viable option, the Lakeland Mini Multi-Cooker is the perfect fit.
This compact machine strips it back to the bare essentials in a small, compact, and convenient model, that still covers rice, yogurt, porridge, and bread proving.
However, don't get too ambitious with those portion sizes – overdo it, and you'll be left with a messy overflow to clean up once your brew starts bubbling. Once we got to grips with the capacity though, we found it simple to use and efficient at cooking foods like rice, porridge, and quinoa. But it's the least versatile machine on this list, at least in terms of pre-set cooking options to work with.
Read our full Lakeland Mini Multi Cooker 1.8L review
How to choose the best instant pot for you
With such a wide array of models available when it comes to Instant Pots and multi-cookers, choosing the right one for you can be confusing.
Start by considering the different cooking methods offered by the best Instant Pots and multi-cookers, and the dishes you prepare most. While some offer a handful of cooking modes including pressure cooking and slow cooking, others including the Instant Pot Duo Evo Plus have as many as 48 different ways of cooking and can do everything including proving bread and making yogurt.
Next look at the capacity the Instant Pot can hold and whether it's sufficient for the number of people you have to cook for. Multi-cookers with a 6 quart / 5.7-liter capacity and above are ideal for those with a large family to feed, or those that want to batch-cook, while a smaller Instant Pot can hold around 3.2 quarts / 3 liters should suffice for an individual or couple.
On top of that, look out for Instant Pots and multi-cookers that have inner pots that can be used on the stove, when browning meat before slow cooking and are dishwasher safe to make sure you have as few utensils to wash up as possible.
Frequently asked questions about Instant Pots
Is an Instant Pot really worth it?
There’s no denying an Instant Pot is a great kitchen appliance but you may be wondering if it’s really worth it? Or will it simply end up as another kitchen gadget that languishes on your countertop gathering dust?
It’s important to remember that while Instant Pots offer a multitude of cooking methods, many of which means you no longer need to use an oven or a hob, they can’t cook everything. For example, they’re not an option if you regularly prepare pasta, noodles, or stir frys. And while some do come with lids that can air fry, we found making fries in an Instant Pot wasn’t as good as using one of the best air fryers.
At the same time, you can’t just pop the lid off and check the dish you’re cooking, as you would when using the hob, the oven, or a slow cooker. You’ll need to release the pressure, effectively stop cooking, and detach the lid. Then if the dish isn’t ready, you’ll need to start cooking again.
Similarly, an Instant Pot can certainly shave a few hours off cooking stews, ribs and other dishes that usually take the best part of a day to cook, however with dishes like rice or steaming vegetables the time saving is minimal, which may mean an Instant Pot isn’t worth the investment.
However, if you’re looking to save space in your kitchen by replacing several gadgets with just one, or you are looking to broaden the repertoire of dishes you cook, without having to research and learn new cooking skills, an Instant Pot will more than prove useful.
What's the best size instant pot?
Instant Pots and other multi-cookers come in an array of different capacities ranging from 3 quart / 3 liters right up to 8 quart / 7.5 liters, so knowing which size Instant Pot is best for you can be confusing.
For most people, the 6 quart / 5.7-liter size Instant Pot will prove to be the most useful. Instant say this capacity is enough to feed between three and size people depending upon your appetite, so will be ideal for families or those looking to batch cook meals for a handful of people.
The larger 8 quart / 7.5-liter size will be a better fit for bigger families, or anyone cooking on a large scale, such as creating chilies, stews, or curries for a party. Meanwhile, for one or two-person households the smaller 3-quart / 3 liter, Instant Pot will ensure you're not using additional energy by cooking a small quantity in an Instant Pot that's just too large for your needs.
It's worth remembering that not all models of Instant Pot are available in all sizes, so do check before deciding on the best model for you.
What can I cook in an Instant Pot?
The best Instant Pots offer a range of different cooking methods, which means there are a plethora of different dishes that can be created in Instant Pots and multi-cookers. Slow cooking means you can use cheaper but tougher cuts of meat and cook them low and slow to make casseroles and stews, while pressure cooking speeds up cooking times, making it great for ribs and chicken wings. However, you can even bake cakes - in particular, we found making cheesecake in an Instant Pot was very good, air fry foods like fries, and even hard-boiled eggs. You can find an extensive variety of recipes atinstantpot.com.
Instant Pot vs Ninja Foodi
Instant Pot and Ninja Foodi are two of the biggest names in the multi-cooker world and are regularly compared to see which is best. Both brands create a wide number of appliances including everything from air fryers to blenders.
As you might expect, the larger and more feature-heavy appliances from Instant Pot and Ninja Foodi are more expensive, but generally speaking, Ninja models are normally more expensive.
It’s also worth comparing how easy these machines are to clean. Ninja Foodi machines feature a cooking pot with a non-stick coating so you shouldn’t need to scrub for hours to get rid of any food. Instant Pots have stainless steel pots but both of the brands’ pots can be placed in a dishwasher.
We’ve compared these brands in detail, to find out which came out on top, read our Ninja Foodi vs Instant Pot feature.
How we tested these Instant Pots
To see how Instant Pots and multi-cookers stack up, we’ve spent hundreds of hours whipping up curries and chilies, preparing batches of rice, and even steaming portions of vegetables, comparing the end results. We’re looking for meat that falls off the bone but is still tender and succulent, rice that’s fluffy but still with some bite, and crisp vegetables. We’ve also compared how easy they are to use and just how much they speed up cooking.
We evaluate each model on how many different cooking methods it offers, how durable and easy to clean the body and parts are, how loud it is in use and when releasing pressure, and how hot the exterior casing gets. We’re also assessing how simple each multi-cooker is to use and whether you need to read the instruction manual before cooking, whether recipe inspiration is provided and the useful accessories such as racks and trays it comes with.
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Contributor
Michelle Rae Uy is the former Computing Reviews and Buying Guides Editor at TechRadar. She's a Los Angeles-based tech, travel and lifestyle writer covering a wide range of topics, from computing to the latest in green commutes to the best hiking trails.She's an ambivert who enjoys communing with nature and traveling for months at a time just as much as watching movies and playing sim games at home. That also means that she has a lot more avenues to explore in terms of understanding how tech can improve the different aspects of our lives.
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