Instant Pot Review: Top Models Compared for 2024

The convenience of modern kitchen appliances has transformed the way we cook. Electric multi-cookers, in particular, have risen in popularity for their versatility and ease of use. Among these, the Instant Pot stands out as a multifunctional device that can handle the jobs of several kitchen appliances in one. It can be used as a pressure cooker, slow cooker, rice cooker, steamer, sauté pan, yoghurt maker, and warmer, making it an invaluable tool for busy cooks looking to save time without compromising on the quality of their meals.

Due to its multifaceted abilities, an Instant Pot allows users to experiment with a diverse range of recipes from tender meats to perfectly cooked grains. The appliance is not only a time-saver but also an energy-efficient choice, often cooking dishes up to 70% faster than traditional methods. This can reduce energy use and potentially lower household expenses. Users also appreciate the enhanced safety features of the Instant Pot, which are designed to prevent the accidents commonly associated with traditional pressure cookers.

When considering purchasing an Instant Pot, it's crucial to take into account factors such as size—models range from 3 to 8 litres—features, and price. The right size largely depends on the number of people you typically cook for, while the various models come with unique programs and settings that cater to different cooking needs. Budget-conscious buyers will also find that the range includes both basic and more advanced models, ensuring there's an Instant Pot to fit various price points.

Having compared and assessed various Instant Pot models, we have found that the combination of speed, efficiency, and versatility they offer makes them a worthy investment for any kitchen. As we move forward, let’s explore what each size and model offers, and how they might best meet the needs of different households.

Top Instant Pot Models

We've researched and tested a variety of Instant Pot models to bring you our top selections. These multitasking kitchen appliances have revolutionised home cooking with their ability to pressure cook, slow cook, steam, and more, all in one device. Our list focuses on performance, features, and value to help you find the perfect Instant Pot for your cooking needs.

Instant Pot Duo 5.7L

We recommend the Instant Pot Duo to anyone wanting to make meal times simpler without sacrificing taste or variety.

Pros

• Cooks meals significantly quicker than traditional methods
• Retains custom settings for a personalised cooking experience
• Versatile with 13 one-touch programs to cater to various dishes

Cons

• Initial learning curve for beginners
• Bulky size may be cumbersome for small kitchens
• Requires countertop space as a permanent appliance due to its utility

Having cooked dinner just last night with this Instant Pot, we were once again impressed by its swift and efficient performance. Whether we're steaming vegetables or cooking stews, everything seems to come out perfectly tender and flavourful, often in a fraction of the time it used to take us with other methods. It's no surprise why it's become such a staple in our kitchen.

Personal preferences are easily remembered by the Instant Pot, making repeat recipes even more straightforward to execute. We've found the 'set and forget' feature particularly handy on busy days. As our life becomes increasingly fast-paced, this pressure cooker has proven to be an indispensable tool for preparing wholesome meals without the fuss.

Clean-up is something we're always keen to minimise, and the Instant Pot Duo delivers on this aspect too. A quick-release steam button and fingerprint-resistant stainless-steel finish mean the end of cooking doesn't translate into the beginning of a clean-up challenge. As a result, we have more time to enjoy the food and less worrying about the mess.

Instant Pot Duo Crisp + Air Fryer

We think the Instant Pot Duo Crisp + Air Fryer is a worthy addition to any kitchen for its versatility and efficiency in cooking.

Pros

• Combines pressure cooking and air frying in one appliance.
• Efficient cooking, reducing energy usage and cooking time.
• Quiet operation with easy steam release.

Cons

• There's a learning curve for optimal use.
• Takes up considerable counter space.
• May not replace your oven for all baking needs.

Having put the Instant Pot Duo Crisp through its paces in our kitchen, we've truly appreciated its ability to handle multiple cooking functions seamlessly. Switching from pressure cooking to air frying without switching appliances is a real game-changer. Imagine pressure cooking a chicken to tender perfection and then giving it a crispy, golden finish, all within the same pot - that's the sort of convenience we're talking about.

Moreover, its performance doesn't compromise on quality or noise. The Instant Pot's whisper-quiet steam release is a breath of fresh air compared to the loud hiss of traditional pressure cookers. And the touch control method? It's intuitive and user-friendly, ensuring a smooth cooking experience from start to finish.

In our collective experience, the Instant Pot Duo Crisp stands out for its potential to transform meal prep. With it, we've cut down on cooking time significantly, enjoyed energy savings, and reduced the need for multiple cooking gadgets cluttering the kitchen. However, be prepared to spend some time familiarising yourself with the various functions to really unlock its potential.

Even if it's robust in functionality, it's worth noting that the device is quite substantial in size. It may require you to sacrifice a fair amount of counter space. While it boldly takes on many roles, don't expect it to completely replace your traditional oven, especially for certain types of baking that may benefit from a conventional oven's consistent heat distribution.

In essence, the Instant Pot Duo Crisp + Air Fryer impresses with its versatility and efficiency, though it demands a slight learning investment and kitchen real estate.

Instant Pot DUO EVO PLUS

We think the Instant Pot DUO EVO PLUS is an outstanding choice because it streamlines cooking with multiple functions and user-friendly features.

Pros

• Exceptionally versatile, doubling as a pressure cooker, steamer, and even a yoghurt maker
• Boasts a quick-cool feature that shortens the pressure release time, speeding up the entire process
• Comes with safety enhancements and easy-to-clean design, making it a user-friendly kitchen companion

Cons

• The initial learning curve may be steep for some, due to the multitude of functions
• Takes up a fair amount of counter space, which might not be ideal in smaller kitchens
• The price point is higher compared to conventional cookware, reflecting its multi-functionality

Our recent experiences with the Instant Pot DUO EVO PLUS have been nothing short of remarkable. It's clear that this device is more than just a pressure cooker; it's a versatile ally in the kitchen. With the ability to sauté vegetables in a flash or cook a chicken in twenty minutes, it has transformed the way we approach meal prep. The self-sealing lid is particularly handy, cutting down on mess and fuss during pressure cooking.

Furthermore, the journey from puzzled to proficient with this appliance is quite smooth. The multitude of preset options for a variety of recipes aids greatly in that transition. There’s also a noticeable difference in the cooking progress indicator, which provides more transparency than older models, letting us know exactly where our meal stands.

As for cleaning, it's a breeze. The stainless steel pot readily finds its place in the dishwasher. And should we fancy a bit more culinary exploration, the sous vide function is a pleasure to experiment with, yielding restaurant-grade dishes that have impressed our guests time and again.

In sum, the Instant Pot DUO EVO PLUS has become an integral part of our kitchen. While some might consider the price a little steep, we believe the convenience and efficiency it brings more than make up for it.

COSORI Multi Cooker

We think this COSORI Pressure Cooker is an excellent buy for anyone aiming to cook effortlessly and enjoy a variety of meals with just one kitchen appliance.

Pros

• Drastically reduces cooking time
• Highly versatile with 9-in-1 functionality
• Straightforward cleaning due to dishwasher-safe components

Cons

• Takes up considerable counter space
• Initial learning curve for pressure cooking novices
• Lid's steam release could be intimidating for some users

Our recent experience with the COSORI Pressure Cooker has been largely positive. With its multipurpose use, we found ourselves replacing several other gadgets, clearing up much-needed space in the kitchen. The multitude of pre-set programmes made cooking numerous dishes a breeze, from tender meat to perfect rice. The accompanying recipe book and the accessibility of online recipes further enriched our cooking experience.

Upon first use, we appreciated how the LED display kept us informed throughout the cooking process, eliminating any guesswork typical of conventional cooking methods. Although we had to allocate some time to become familiar with all the features, it wasn't long before we were navigating the presets like pros.

After enjoying our meal, cleanup was the next task, which turned out to be surprisingly simple. The stainless steel parts cleaned up nicely, showing no fingerprints, and the nonstick pot along with the steam rack went straight into the dishwasher. It's worth mentioning the care that must be taken while releasing steam; although the design ensures safety, it may be a little daunting initially. All things considered, the COSORI Pressure Cooker has earned its spot as a mainstay on our kitchen counter.

Ninja Foodi MAX 15-in-1

We reckon the Ninja Foodi MAX 15-in-1 would be a smart addition to your kitchen, simplifying meal prep with its versatile functions.

Pros

• Reduces energy consumption
• Intuitive Smart Cook system
• Ample cooking space

Cons

• Bulky and heavy
• User interface takes time to master
• Can be loud during operation

Having recently had the chance to put the Ninja Foodi MAX 15-in-1 Multi-Cooker through its paces, we've found it to be quite the workhorse. The energy-saving design is a standout feature, particularly appreciated during long cooking sessions, which correspondingly eased the electricity bills. Its 15 functions, ranging from air frying to yoghurt making, are impressive, allowing for culinary creativity without the need for multiple appliances. The Smart Cook system is a boon, as the digital probe ensures meals are cooked to perfection every time by eliminating guesswork.

However, this appliance isn't a shrinking violet on your countertop – its hefty form demands significant storage space. On top of that, the touch controls and multitude of functions, while comprehensive, do have a learning curve. Patience will be required to familiarise oneself with the range of settings.

In a recent round of cooking tests, we've air fried chips to crispy perfection and pressure cooked meat until fabulously tender. The double-layer rack is a practical addition, enabling the preparation of a complete meal in one go. After these sessions, clean-up was far simpler than anticipated; most components are dishwasher safe, making the after-dinner clean-up less daunting.

As previously stated, the device isn't silent, particularly when air frying, but the noise level is a small trade-off for the swift and delicious results. Despite its size, this multi-cooker doesn't slack on the job – it's quick, efficient, and produces fantastic results that might just make it the centrepiece of your kitchen adventures.

Buying Guide

Understanding Product Specifications

When we choose an Instant Pot, specific features define the product's utility:

• Size: We consider capacity, which ranges from 3 to 8 litres. Smaller sizes suit singles or couples, while larger ones are ideal for families.
• Power: The wattage impacts cooking time. Most models range from 700 to 1200 watts.
• Material: We prefer stainless steel inner pots for durability and ease of cleaning.
• Presets: The number of preset programmes tells us how versatile the appliance is.

Essential Features to Consider

We focus on several vital features:

• Pressure Levels: A good Instant Pot provides options for high and low pressure.
• Safety Mechanisms: Features like lid locks and pressure release ensure our safety.
• Interface: We look for clear displays and intuitive controls.
• Accessories: We check for included extras like steam racks or measuring cups.

Performance and Convenience

Beyond basic features, we assess:

• Heat Distribution: Even cooking is crucial for meal quality.
• Ease of Cleaning: Pots with non-stick coating or dishwasher-safe components save us time.
• Warranty: We seek at least a one year warranty for peace of mind.

By evaluating these aspects, we find an Instant Pot that meets our cooking needs and preferences.