Contents
Choosing the best cheap instant pot can be hard. The Instant Pot Duo Plus 6 Qt 9-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker is our top pick. It offers many cooking functions, including pressure cook and slow cook. The second choice is the Instant Pot Duo 6 Qt 7-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker. It’s affordable but has fewer features than our top pick.
Most buyers decide between more features or lower cost. The Duo Plus has 9 cooking functions, while the Duo has 7. This page will help you understand the differences and find the right instant pot for your kitchen.
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The Top 8
Top 8 Instant Pots Reviewed in Detail
Here are the best cheap instant pots available today. Each one offers unique features to help you choose the right option.
1. Top Pick
Instant Pot Duo Plus 6 Qt 9-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker, Stainless Steel
- 9 Cooking Functions: Pressure cook, slow cook, sauté, sous vide, steam, sterilize, keep warm, make rice and yogurt—all in one appliance
- Customizable Smart Programs: Tackle every recipe with 15 one-touch options, from hearty soups to decadent cakes
- Intuitive and Convenient Design: An easy-to-read display with dedicated cooking time, temperature, and pressure indicators keeps you updated in real time. And when it’s time to tuck it away, the detachable power cord makes storage easy
- Safe and Easy Steam Release: The Easy-Release steam switch ensures fast, safe, and simple steam release every time
- Pro-Grade Cooking Pot: Crafted from durable 18/8 stainless steel with an anti-spin, tri-ply bottom—perfect for searing and sautéing like a pro
- Family-Sized Capacity: The 6-quart capacity is perfect for up to 6 servings—ideal for families, meal prep, and batch cooking
- Quick Cleanup and A Little Extra: No more fighting about who has to do the dishes. The dishwasher-safe lid and inner pot make clean up a breeze. Includes 2 extra sealing rings and a stainless steel steam rack to keep you ready for anything
- Power-Packed Performance and Proven Peace of Mind: 1000 watts, 120 V 60 Hz, UL and ULC Listed. Features over 10 safety mechanisms, including overheat protection, an easy seal safety lid lock, and more for worry-free cooking
The Instant Pot Duo Plus 6 Qt 9-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker is a versatile kitchen tool. It offers 9 cooking functions, which means you can pressure cook, slow cook, sauté, and more. This makes meal prep easy and fun. Compared to the other models, it provides more cooking options, making it suitable for various recipes.
While the Duo Plus is our top pick, the Instant Pot Duo 6 Qt 7-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker is a solid choice as well. It has 7 cooking functions, which cover most basic needs. However, it lacks some advanced features found in the Duo Plus, like additional smart programs. This may be a dealbreaker for some, especially those who love to experiment with cooking.
One limitation is that the Duo Plus is larger and may take up more counter space. If you have a small kitchen, this could be a consideration. However, for those who want a full-featured instant pot, this model is hard to beat.
Pros
- 9 cooking functions including pressure cook and sous vide
- Customizable smart programs for easy recipe handling
- Intuitive and easy-to-read display
Cons
- Larger size may not fit in small kitchens
- Higher price compared to basic models
- Learning curve for beginners
Best for: Home cooks who want versatility in meal prep. Not ideal for: Those with limited kitchen space.
A versatile and powerful addition to any kitchen.
2. Best Compact
Instant Pot Duo 6 Qt 7-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker, Stainless Steel
- 7 Cooking Functions: Pressure cook, slow cook, sauté, steam, make rice, yogurt, or simply keep your meal warm—all in one appliance
- Customizable Smart Programs: Tackle every recipe with 13 one-touch options, from hearty soups to decadent cakes
- Safe & Easy Steam Release: The Easy-Release steam switch ensures fast, safe, and simple steam release every time
- Good Food Done Faster: Cook up to 70% faster compared to slow cooking methods
- Pro-Grade Cooking Pot: Crafted from stainless steel (18/8) with a tri-ply bottom—perfect for searing and sautéing like a pro
- Family-Sized Capacity: The 6-quart capacity is perfect for up to 6 servings—ideal for families, meal prep, and batch cooking
- Quick Cleanup: No more fighting about who has to do the dishes. The dishwasher-safe lid and inner pot make clean-up a breeze
- Power-Packed Performance: 1000 watts, 120 V 60 Hz, UL & ULC Listed
- Proven Peace of Mind: Features over 10 safety mechanisms, including overheat protection, an easy seal safety lid lock, and more to keep cooking worry-free
- A Little Extra: Includes a stainless steel steamer rack to keep you ready for anything
The Instant Pot Duo 6 Qt 7-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker is an excellent choice for budget-conscious shoppers. It features 7 cooking functions, which includes pressure cooking and slow cooking. This makes it suitable for many meal types, from soups to stews. Compared to the Duo Plus, it has fewer functions, which may limit some recipes.
This model is perfect for those who want to try an instant pot without spending too much. It has 13 customizable smart programs that simplify cooking. However, some users may find it lacks the advanced features of pricier models. This means you might not explore all recipes as fully as you could with more advanced options.
A limitation is its fewer cooking functions. This could make it less appealing to more adventurous cooks who want to experiment with different meal types. For everyday cooking, though, it still delivers good results at a lower cost.
Pros
- 7 cooking functions for basic cooking needs
- Customizable smart programs for easy cooking
- Compact design suitable for small kitchens
Cons
- Fewer features than the Duo Plus
- Not ideal for complex recipes
- Less capacity than larger models
Best for: Budget-conscious cooks who want basic features. Not ideal for: Advanced cooks looking for more options.
A solid choice for those who want simplicity and value.
3. Best Premium
Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 Mini Electric Pressure Cooker, Slow Rice Cooker, Steamer, Sauté, Yogurt Maker, Warmer & Sterilizer, Includes Free App with over 1900…
- 7 Cooking Functions: Pressure cook, slow cook, sauté, steam, make rice, yogurt, or simply keep your meal warm—all in one appliance.
- Compact Yet Capable: A 3-quart capacity makes it perfect for small households or side dishes, and with 11 one-touch smart programs, it can tackle everything from hearty soups to decadent cakes.
- Good Food Done Faster: Cook up to 70% faster compared to slow cooking methods.
- Pro-Grade Cooking Pot: Crafted from stainless steel (18/8) with a tri-ply bottom—perfect for searing and sautéing like a pro.
- Quick Cleanup: No more fighting about who has to do the dishes. The dishwasher-safe lid and inner pot make washing up effortless.
- Power-Packed Performance: 700 watts, 120 V 60 Hz, UL & ULC Listed.
- Proven Peace of Mind: Features over 10 safety mechanisms, including overheat protection, an easy seal safety lid lock, and more.
- A Little Extra: Includes a stainless steel steamer rack to keep you ready for anything.
The Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 Mini Electric Pressure Cooker is designed for smaller households and those with limited space. With its 3-quart capacity, it is compact yet offers 7 cooking functions. This includes pressure cooking, slow cooking, and even yogurt making. Compared to larger models, it still provides versatility without taking up much room.
This model also features 11 one-touch smart programs. These programs simplify cooking and allow you to prepare various dishes easily. However, its smaller size can be a downside if you need to cook for more than two or three people. It is best for singles, couples, or as a side dish cooker.
The main limitation is its smaller capacity. Families may find it insufficient for making larger meals in one go. This instant pot is great for small households but may not satisfy those cooking for groups.
Pros
- Compact size for easy storage
- 7 cooking functions for versatile cooking
- Includes free app with 1900 recipes
Cons
- Limited capacity for larger meals
- Not suitable for families
- Fewer features than larger models
Best for: Singles or couples needing a compact cooker. Not ideal for: Families or those preparing larger meals.
An excellent compact option for small kitchens.
4. Best for Daily Use
Instant Pot Rio Wide 7.5 Qt 7-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker, WhisperQuiet
- 7 Cooking Functions: Pressure cook, slow cook, sauté, steam, make rice, yogurt, or simply keep your meal warm—all in one appliance
- Customizable Smart Programs: Tackle every recipe with 13 one-touch options, from hearty soups to decadent cakes
- Cooking Status at a Glance: Status lights guide you through each stage of the cooking process, so you always know what’s going on.
- Safe & Easy Steam Release: Easy-Release ensures fast, safe, and simple steam release every time.
- Good Food Done Faster: Cook up to 70% faster compared to slow cooking methods
- Sturdy Anti-Spin Pot: Stainless steel (18/8) pot with a tri-ply bottom that stays in place for seamless sautéing.
- Wide Base, Sleek Design: 35% more cooking area than a 12″ skillet, wrapped in a modern, sleek design.
- Family-Sized Capacity: The 7.5-quart capacity is perfect for up to 7 servings—ideal for families, gatherings, meal prep, and batch cooking
- Quick Cleanup: No more fighting about who has to do the dishes. The dishwasher-safe cooking pot and lid make washing up effortless
- Power-Packed Performance and Proven Peace of Mind: 1200 watts, 120 V 60 Hz, UL & ULC Listed. Features over 10 safety mechanisms, including overheat protection, an easy seal safety lid lock, and more to keep cooking worry-free
The Instant Pot Rio Wide 7.5 Qt 7-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker is designed for those who cook for larger groups. Its 7-in-1 functionality offers pressure cooking, slow cooking, and more. This makes it suitable for various meals and is perfect for families or gatherings. Compared to smaller models, it provides more capacity and space for cooking larger portions.
This model has customizable smart programs, allowing users to tackle different recipes conveniently. It also features status lights that guide you through each cooking stage. However, its larger size can make it a bit bulkier in the kitchen.
A limitation is its size and weight. This could be a drawback if you have limited counter space. If you need an instant pot that can handle more servings, this model is a solid choice despite its bulkiness.
Pros
- 7 cooking functions for versatile cooking
- Larger capacity for bigger meals
- Status lights for easy cooking guidance
Cons
- Bulky size may take up more counter space
- Heavier than smaller models
- Learning curve for new users
Best for: Families or those who cook for gatherings. Not ideal for: Small kitchens with limited space.
A solid option for larger meal preparations.
5. Best Splurge
Instant Pot Rio Mini 4 Qt 7-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker, Black
- 7 Cooking Functions: Pressure cook, slow cook, sauté, steam, cook rice, make yogurt, or keep your meals warm, all in one compact device.
- Mini and Mighty: Easy to store, offering the same cooking surface as an 8-inch pan
- Fun Sized Capacity: The 4-quart capacity is perfect for up to 4 servings, ideal for students, singles, and small families
- Cooking Status at a Glance: Progress indicator lets you monitor your cooking status with ease
- Intentionally Convenient: Anti-spin design ensures the pot stays steady for effortless stirring and sautéing
- Colorful Design: The Rosewater finish adds a lovely modern touch to your kitchen
- Good Food Done Faster: Cook up to 70% faster compared to slow cooking methods.
- Quick Cleanup: No more fighting about who has to do the dishes. Dishwasher-safe lid and cooking stainless steel pot make cleaning a breeze
- Proven Peace of Mind: Features over 10 proven safety features, including overheat protection and an auto-sealing locking lid
- Power-Packed Performance and A Little Extra: 800 watts, 120 V 60 Hz, UL & ULC Listed. Includes a versatile stainless steel steam rack
The Instant Pot Rio Mini 4 Qt 7-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker is designed for those who want a compact cooker. It offers 7 cooking functions for a variety of dishes. With its 4-quart capacity, it is perfect for smaller meals or side dishes. Compared to other models, it combines good functionality with a space-saving design.
This model is lightweight and easy to store, making it ideal for students or those living alone. It shares features with larger models but is designed for smaller portions. However, those who cook for multiple people may find the capacity lacking.
A downside is its limited size. This may not meet the needs of families or those preparing large meals. It is a great choice for individuals or couples but not suitable for bigger cooking tasks.
Pros
- Compact design for easy storage
- 7 cooking functions for versatile use
- Lightweight and portable
Cons
- Limited capacity for larger meals
- Not ideal for families
- Fewer features than bigger models
Best for: Individuals or couples looking for a mini cooker. Not ideal for: Large families or meal prepping for groups.
A handy, compact option for small kitchens.
6. Best Budget
Instant Pot Rio Mini 4 Qt 7-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker, Sea Salt
- 7 Cooking Functions: Pressure cook, slow cook, sauté, steam, cook rice, make yogurt, or keep your meals warm, all in one compact device.
- Mini and Mighty: Easy to store, offering the same cooking surface as an 8-inch pan
- Fun Sized Capacity: The 4-quart capacity is perfect for up to 4 servings, ideal for students, singles, and small families
- Cooking Status at a Glance: Progress indicator lets you monitor your cooking status with ease
- Intentionally Convenient: Anti-spin design ensures the pot stays steady for effortless stirring and sautéing
- Colorful Design: The Rosewater finish adds a lovely modern touch to your kitchen
- Good Food Done Faster: Cook up to 70% faster compared to slow cooking methods.
- Quick Cleanup: No more fighting about who has to do the dishes. Dishwasher-safe lid and cooking stainless steel pot make cleaning a breeze
- Proven Peace of Mind: Features over 10 proven safety features, including overheat protection and an auto-sealing locking lid
- Power-Packed Performance and A Little Extra: 800 watts, 120 V 60 Hz, UL & ULC Listed. Includes a versatile stainless steel steam rack
The Instant Pot Rio Mini 4 Qt 7-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker in Black is similar to other mini models but adds a stylistic touch. It features 7 cooking functions, such as pressure cooking and slow cooking. With its 4-quart capacity, it is ideal for small servings and saves space in your kitchen. Compared to other mini models, it still offers essential features without bulk.
This model is easy to store and is perfect for quick meals or side dishes. The compact size makes it suitable for students or singles. However, as with other mini models, it may not meet the needs of families or larger meal prep.
A limitation is the same small capacity as other mini pots. Families may find it insufficient for their needs. This instant pot is best for individuals or couples who want a simple and efficient cooking solution.
Pros
- Stylish design with compact size
- 7 cooking functions for versatile cooking
- Great for quick meals or side dishes
Cons
- Limited capacity for bigger meals
- Not suitable for families
- Fewer features compared to larger models
Best for: Style-conscious individuals needing a compact cooker. Not ideal for: Families or those cooking larger meals.
A stylish and practical choice for small kitchens.
7. Best Value
Instant Pot Rio 6 Qt 7-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker, Black
- 7 Cooking Functions: Pressure cook, slow cook, sauté, steam, make rice, yogurt, or simply keep your meal warm—all in one appliance
- Customizable Smart Programs: Tackle every recipe with 13 one-touch options, from hearty soups to decadent cakes
- Safe & Easy Steam Release: Easy-Release ensures fast, safe, and simple steam release every time.
- Good Food Done Faster: Cook up to 70% faster compared to slow cooking methods.
- Sturdy Anti-Spin Pot: Stainless steel (18/8) pot with a tri-ply bottom that stays in place for seamless sautéing
- Family-Sized Capacity: The 6-quart capacity is perfect for up to 6 servings—ideal for families, meal prep, and batch cooking
- Quick Cleanup: No more fighting about who has to do the dishes. The dishwasher-safe lid and inner pot make clean-up a breeze
- Power-Packed Performance: 1000 watts, 120 V 60 Hz, UL & ULC Listed
- Proven Peace of Mind: Features over 10 safety mechanisms, including overheat protection, an easy seal safety lid lock, and more
The Instant Pot Rio 6 Qt 7-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker is another good option for everyday cooking. It features 7 cooking functions and customizable smart programs. This allows users to tackle various recipes easily. Compared to other models, it offers a good balance between capacity and versatility.
This model is ideal for families or individuals who want to prepare meals without hassle. The 6-quart capacity makes it suitable for larger meals while maintaining ease of use. However, some users may find it lacks advanced features present in other models.
A limitation is its less sophisticated design. This might not appeal to users who want modern features. However, it remains a reliable choice for straightforward cooking tasks.
Pros
- 7 cooking functions for diverse meals
- User-friendly design with smart programs
- 6-quart capacity for family meals
Cons
- Lacks some advanced features
- Design may feel basic to some
- Learning curve for new users
Best for: Families seeking an easy and practical cooker. Not ideal for: Users wanting high-tech features.
A reliable choice for everyday meal preparation.
8. Best Design
Instant Pot Rio Mini 4 Qt 7-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker, Rosewater Pink
- 7 Cooking Functions: Pressure cook, slow cook, sauté, steam, cook rice, make yogurt, or keep your meals warm, all in one compact device.
- Mini and Mighty: Easy to store, offering the same cooking surface as an 8-inch pan
- Fun Sized Capacity: The 4-quart capacity is perfect for up to 4 servings, ideal for students, singles, and small families
- Cooking Status at a Glance: Progress indicator lets you monitor your cooking status with ease
- Intentionally Convenient: Anti-spin design ensures the pot stays steady for effortless stirring and sautéing
- Colorful Design: The Rosewater finish adds a lovely modern touch to your kitchen
- Good Food Done Faster: Cook up to 70% faster compared to slow cooking methods.
- Quick Cleanup: No more fighting about who has to do the dishes. Dishwasher-safe lid and cooking stainless steel pot make cleaning a breeze
- Proven Peace of Mind: Features over 10 proven safety features, including overheat protection and an auto-sealing locking lid
- Power-Packed Performance and A Little Extra: 800 watts, 120 V 60 Hz, UL & ULC Listed. Includes a versatile stainless steel steam rack
The Instant Pot Rio Mini 4 Qt 7-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker in Rosewater Pink stands out for its design. Like other mini models, it offers 7 cooking functions but adds a touch of style. Its 4-quart capacity is suitable for single servings or side dishes, making it a great choice for limited spaces.
It is easy to store and perfect for quick meals, allowing you to enjoy delicious dishes without the hassle. However, it shares the same limitations as similar mini models with small capacity. This means it may not be suitable for larger cooking tasks.
A downside is the limited capacity, which can be a dealbreaker for families. This instant pot is best for individuals or couples looking for a stylish and efficient cooking option.
Pros
- Stylish design in a trendy color
- 7 cooking functions for versatile cooking
- Compact size for easy storage
Cons
- Limited capacity for bigger meals
- Not ideal for families
- Fewer features than larger models
Best for: Individuals wanting a stylish mini cooker. Not ideal for: Larger families or those needing more capacity.
A fashionable and functional choice for compact kitchens.
Instant Pots Compared Side by Side
The table below compares the best cheap instant pot options. Each column shows important features like cooking functions and size. Check the rows to find which model fits your cooking needs best.
| # | Product | Best for | Brand | Price | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Instant Pot Duo Plus 6 Qt 9-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker | Top Pick | Instant Pot | $94.98 | Check |
| 2 | Instant Pot Duo 6 Qt 7-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker | Best Compact | Instant Pot | $79 | Check |
| 3 | Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 Mini Electric Pressure Cooker | Best Premium | Instant Pot | $89.99 | Check |
| 4 | Instant Pot Rio Wide 7.5 Qt 7-in-1 Electric Pressure… | Best for Daily Use | Instant Pot | $139.95 | Check |
| 5 | Instant Pot Rio Mini 4 Qt 7-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker | Best Splurge | Instant Pot | $69.95 | Check |
| 6 | Instant Pot Rio Mini 4 Qt 7-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker | Best Budget | Instant Pot | $89.99 | Check |
| 7 | Instant Pot Rio 6 Qt 7-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker | Best Value | Instant Pot | $99.99 | Check |
| 8 | Instant Pot Rio Mini 4 Qt 7-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker | Best Design | Instant Pot | $89.99 | Check |
| 9 | Instant Pot Pro Plus 6 Qt 10-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker | — | Instant Pot | $169.95 | Check |
| 10 | Instant Pot Pro 6 Qt 10-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker | — | Instant Pot | $169.99 | Check |
Prices come from Amazon and change often. The price on Amazon at checkout is the one that applies.
How We Reviewed
Where our data comes from
We gathered data from trusted kitchen appliance websites and customer reviews. This gave us an understanding of features and user experiences. Sources included expert reviews and user ratings.
How we built this shortlist
We started with over 15 instant pots available online. We focused on models with high ratings and popular features. After filtering out less popular choices, we narrowed it down to the top eight.
What we ruled out and why
We removed models that lacked basic cooking functions like pressure cooking or slow cooking. We also dropped products with low user ratings or reports of safety issues. This ensured we only featured reliable options.
What we did not do
No products were tested by hand or in a lab. We did not take measurements or assign scores based on personal use. All information is based on research from credible sources.
How often this page is updated
This page is reviewed and updated every three months. We check for new products and changes in user feedback. This ensures you have the most current information when selecting an instant pot.
How to Choose Instant Pots
Cooking Functions
Look for an instant pot with at least 7 cooking functions. Common options include pressure cooking, slow cooking, and sautéing. The more functions, the more recipes you can try, making your cooking versatile.
Size Matters
Choose a size that fits your needs. A 6-quart capacity is great for families, while a 3-quart option is perfect for singles or couples. Consider how many servings you typically prepare.
Ease of Use
Select an instant pot with a user-friendly design. An easy-to-read display and one-touch buttons make cooking simpler. This feature is especially helpful for beginners or those new to pressure cooking.
Safety Features
Check for safety features like steam release valves and auto shut-off. These features help prevent accidents during cooking. They also provide confidence when using an electric pressure cooker.
Brand Reputation
Consider well-known brands like Instant Pot. They often provide better customer service and warranty support. Research customer reviews to gauge the reliability and satisfaction of the brand.
What to look for
Cooking Speed
Instant pots are known for cooking food quickly. They can reduce cooking times by up to 70% compared to traditional methods. This is particularly useful for busy families or those who want meals on the table fast.
Versatility
These appliances can replace multiple kitchen gadgets. Most models can pressure cook, slow cook, steam, sauté, and more. This feature saves space and makes meal prep easier.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Look for models with removable inner pots. These are usually dishwasher safe and easy to clean. Regular maintenance helps the instant pot last longer and perform better.
Pressure Settings
Check if the instant pot has adjustable pressure settings. This feature allows you to customize cooking based on the recipe. Different dishes may require different pressure levels for best results.
Smart Programs
Many instant pots come with smart programs for various recipes. These one-touch settings simplify meal preparation. Look for options that offer a variety of smart programs to match your cooking style.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best cheap instant pot on the market?
The best cheap instant pot is the Instant Pot Duo Plus 6 Qt 9-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker. It offers 9 cooking functions and customizable smart programs for easy meal prep.
How many cooking functions should I look for?
Aim for at least 7 cooking functions. This will allow you to pressure cook, slow cook, sauté, and more. More functions provide better versatility in the kitchen.
Is a larger capacity instant pot better?
Not necessarily. A 6-quart instant pot is great for families, while a 3-quart is better for singles or couples. Choose based on your typical cooking needs.
Are instant pots safe to use?
Yes, instant pots are generally safe. Look for models with safety features like automatic shut-off and steam release valves. These features help prevent accidents while cooking.
How often should I clean my instant pot?
Clean your instant pot after every use. Regular cleaning prevents buildup and ensures optimal performance. Make sure to wash the inner pot and sealing ring thoroughly.
Shopping around? We have 32 more instant pot guides for other budgets and use cases.
Sources and standards
Background reading we checked while putting this guide together:
- ENERGY STAR refrigerators ENERGY STAR (EPA/DOE)
- USDA Food and Nutrition Information Center U.S. Department of Agriculture
About the author
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