Contents
Choosing the best instant pot app can be tough. The Instant Pot Duo Plus 6 Qt 9-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker is the top pick because it has 9 cooking functions, including sous vide. For a more affordable choice, the Instant Pot Duo 6 Qt 7-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker is a great value. It offers 7 cooking functions but lacks some advanced features.
Most users decide between more functions and a lower price. The Instant Pot Duo Plus offers versatility, while the Duo keeps things simple. This page helps you compare features and find the best fit for your cooking needs.
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The Top 8
Top 8 Instant Pots Reviewed in Detail
Now, let’s look at the details of our top picks for instant pots.
1. Best Overall
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 the best instant pot app because of its versatility. It has nine cooking functions, allowing you to pressure cook, slow cook, sauté, and more. This makes it great for various recipes. Compared to others, it offers more cooking options, which is a significant advantage.
While the Instant Pot Duo 6 Qt 7-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker is a solid choice, it only has seven functions. This makes it suitable for basic cooking needs but limits versatility. If you want to explore diverse recipes, the Duo Plus is a better choice.
One downside is the larger size, which may not fit in small kitchens. If you have limited counter space, you might find it cumbersome. However, for those who want a reliable and multifunctional cooker, the Duo Plus is the best option.
Pros
- 9 cooking functions for versatile meal preparation
- Customizable smart programs with 15 one-touch options
- Stainless steel inner pot for durability
Cons
- Larger size may not fit in small kitchens
- Higher price compared to basic models
- More functions might be overwhelming for beginners
Best for: Those wanting a versatile cooking tool. Not ideal for: Small kitchens with limited space.
The Instant Pot Duo Plus is the best choice for those who love cooking a variety of meals.
2. Best for Small Spaces
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 a great choice for simple meal prep. It has seven cooking functions, which cover basic needs like pressure cooking and sautéing. This makes it a solid option for beginners and those cooking for small families.
When compared to the Duo Plus, it lacks advanced features like sous vide and sterilization. However, it is still effective for everyday cooking. This model is easier to use for those who do not need many functions and prefer simplicity.
One limitation is that it may not satisfy more adventurous cooks. If you want to explore a variety of recipes, you might find this model limiting. However, for basic home cooking, it is a reliable choice.
Pros
- 7 cooking functions for basic meal preparation
- Customizable smart programs with 13 one-touch options
- Easy steam release system for safety
Cons
- Fewer functions limit cooking variety
- May not satisfy advanced users
- Not as durable as some options
Best for: Beginners and simple meal prep. Not ideal for: Those wanting advanced cooking options.
The Instant Pot Duo is the right choice for those who prefer simplicity in their cooking.
3. Best for Daily Use
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 a compact option for small households. With a 3-quart capacity, it’s perfect for individuals or couples. This model has seven cooking functions, making it versatile enough for various recipes.
In comparison to the larger models, this mini version is easier to store and transport. It still offers smart programs, ensuring you can tackle meals without much effort. However, its smaller capacity may not satisfy larger families or those who prepare meals for guests.
One limitation is its size. While it works great for small meals, it might not be enough for family gatherings. If you often cook for more than two people, consider a larger model. This mini option is best for quick and easy meals.
Pros
- Compact 3-quart size for easy storage
- 7 cooking functions for versatile meal options
- Includes a free app with over 1900 recipes
Cons
- Limited capacity may not suit larger families
- Fewer functions than larger models
- Not ideal for meal prep for multiple servings
Best for: Individuals or couples. Not ideal for: Large families or meal prep for several people.
The Instant Pot Duo Mini is a great choice for those cooking for one or two.
4. Best Compact
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 offers a larger capacity for more cooking options. With seven functions, it handles pressure cooking, slow cooking, and more. Its 7.5-quart size makes it suitable for families or meal prep.
Compared to the other instant pots, the Rio Wide provides more space. This allows you to cook larger meals or batch cook for the week. However, the features are similar to other 7-in-1 models, which may limit its appeal for some users.
A downside is that it may not be the best fit for smaller kitchens or storage spaces. If you have limited counter space, you may find this model clunky. Still, for cooking larger meals, it excels.
Pros
- 7 cooking functions for versatile meal options
- Larger 7.5-quart capacity for family meals
- Customizable smart programs with 13 one-touch options
Cons
- May not fit well in small kitchens
- Similar functionality to smaller models
- Requires more storage space
Best for: Families or batch cooking. Not ideal for: Small kitchens with limited storage.
The Instant Pot Rio Wide is perfect for those who need more cooking capacity.
5. Best Premium
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 compact yet functional. It has seven cooking functions, allowing you to prepare a variety of meals. The 4-quart capacity is suitable for individuals or small families.
When compared to the 3-quart models, this one offers a bit more capacity. This makes it a better option for those who might occasionally cook for more than one person. However, it still lacks the advanced features found in larger models.
One limitation is that it is still a mini model, which may not serve larger families well. If you often cook for groups, consider a larger option. This mini pot is great for small portions and easy meals.
Pros
- Compact 4-quart capacity for easy storage
- 7 cooking functions for diverse recipes
- Mini size is great for students or small households
Cons
- Limited capacity for larger meals
- May not satisfy families with more than 4 people
- Lacks advanced features of bigger models
Best for: Small households or students. Not ideal for: Larger families needing more cooking space.
The Instant Pot Rio Mini is suitable for those in need of compact cooking solutions.
6. Best Design
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 Sea Salt offers a stylish option for your kitchen. It has seven cooking functions, making it versatile for daily cooking tasks. The compact design is perfect for small kitchens or limited storage.
This model is similar to other mini options but comes in a fun color. It can handle various cooking styles, but it lacks the advanced features of larger models. It is a solid choice if you want a stylish yet functional mini pot.
One downside is that the limited capacity may not suit larger families. If you need to prepare meals for more than four people, look for a larger model. It works well for individuals and couples, though.
Pros
- Stylish design in Sea Salt color
- Compact 4-quart size for easy storage
- 7 cooking functions for daily meal prep
Cons
- Limited capacity for larger families
- Similar features to other mini models
- Not ideal for batch cooking
Best for: Individuals who value design. Not ideal for: Families needing larger capacities.
The Instant Pot Rio Mini in Sea Salt is a stylish choice for compact cooking.
7. Best Budget
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 in Black is a reliable option for everyday cooking. It combines seven cooking functions with a 6-quart capacity. This makes it great for family meals and meal prep.
Compared to other models, it offers similar features but in a classic black color. This makes it a solid, no-fuss option for those who want a dependable cooker. However, it shares limitations with other 7-in-1 models, which may not satisfy users looking for more advanced features.
One limitation is that it lacks any unique features. While it performs well, you may find it does not stand out from the competition. This model is good for practical everyday cooking.
Pros
- Classic black design fits any kitchen
- 6-quart capacity for family meals
- 7 cooking functions for versatile cooking
Cons
- No standout features compared to others
- Limited to basic cooking functions
- Not ideal for more advanced recipes
Best for: Everyday use and meal prep. Not ideal for: Those seeking unique or advanced capabilities.
The Instant Pot Rio 6 Qt is a dependable choice for everyday meal preparation.
8. Best Splurge
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 adds a pop of color to your kitchen. This model offers seven cooking functions in a compact size. The 4-quart capacity is suitable for small meals or side dishes.
Compared to other mini pots, this one stands out with its unique color. It still provides the same functionality, but its color adds charm to your kitchen. However, just like other mini versions, it may not be suitable for larger meals.
One limitation is the capacity. If you often cook for larger groups, consider a bigger model. This mini pot is perfect for small households or those who want a stylish cooking device.
Pros
- Charming Rosewater Pink color adds style
- Compact 4-quart size for easy storage
- 7 cooking functions for versatile meal preparation
Cons
- Limited capacity for larger families
- Not ideal for batch cooking
- Similar features to other mini models
Best for: Style-conscious individuals or small households. Not ideal for: Those who need more cooking space.
The Instant Pot Rio Mini in Rosewater Pink is a stylish compact option for small meal prep.
Instant Pots Compared Side by Side
The following table compares the best instant pot app options. The columns show cooking functions, special features, and sizes. If you have specific needs, look closely at each row to find the best instant pot app for you.
| # | Product | Best for | Brand | Price | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Instant Pot Duo Plus 6 Qt 9-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker | Best Overall | Instant Pot | $94.98 | Check |
| 2 | Instant Pot Duo 6 Qt 7-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker | Best for Small Spaces | Instant Pot | $79 | Check |
| 3 | Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 Mini Electric Pressure Cooker | Best for Daily Use | Instant Pot | $89.99 | Check |
| 4 | Instant Pot Rio Wide 7.5 Qt 7-in-1 Electric Pressure… | Best Compact | Instant Pot | $139.95 | Check |
| 5 | Instant Pot Rio Mini 4 Qt 7-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker | Best Premium | Instant Pot | $69.95 | Check |
| 6 | Instant Pot Rio Mini 4 Qt 7-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker | Best Design | Instant Pot | $89.99 | Check |
| 7 | Instant Pot Rio 6 Qt 7-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker | Best Budget | Instant Pot | $99.99 | Check |
| 8 | Instant Pot Rio Mini 4 Qt 7-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker | Best Splurge | 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 to Choose Instant Pots
Consider Cooking Functions
Think about how you want to cook. If you want more options, look for models with at least 9 functions. This allows for versatility in cooking. If you only need basic tasks, 7 functions may be enough.
Check Capacity
Capacity matters for meal planning. A 6-quart model works for most families. A 3-quart model is better for small households. Choose based on how many people you usually cook for.
Look for Smart Programs
Smart programs make cooking easier. Check for models with at least 11 one-touch options. These help you tackle a variety of recipes without much effort.
Material Quality
Stainless steel is the best material for durability and cooking performance. Plastic parts might wear out faster. Look for models with a stainless steel inner pot.
Ease of Use
A clear display and simple buttons make for a better experience. Choose models with intuitive controls. This reduces confusion and makes cooking a breeze.
How We Reviewed
Where our data comes from
We gathered information from several trusted sources. These include product websites, user reviews, and cooking blogs. This data helped us build a clear picture of what each model offers.
How we built this shortlist
We looked at over 20 instant pot models. We filtered based on features, user ratings, and popularity. This helped us narrow down to the top choices presented here.
What we ruled out and why
Models with less than 7 cooking functions were eliminated. We also ruled out those with poor user reviews or unclear specifications. This ensures you see only reliable options.
What we did not do
No hands-on testing was done for this review. We did not take lab measurements or create scores. All information is based on available data and user feedback.
How often this page is updated
This page is reviewed regularly. We update it every few months to ensure that all information remains accurate. You can trust that the products listed are current.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best instant pot app for beginners?
The Instant Pot Duo Plus is great for beginners. It has easy-to-use features and multiple cooking functions.
How many cooking functions do I need?
Seven functions are enough for simple meals. For more variety, look for at least nine functions.
Can I make yogurt in an instant pot?
Yes, many instant pots have a yogurt-making function. This allows you to prepare yogurt at home easily.
What is the best size for an instant pot?
A 6-quart size works well for families. Smaller households might prefer a 3-quart size.
Are instant pots safe to use?
Yes, instant pots come with safety features. These include steam release valves and pressure indicators.
What to look for
Cooking Functions
Different instant pots come with various cooking functions. Standard models usually have 7 functions, while more advanced ones offer 9 or more. Look for a model that fits your cooking style. If you want versatility, choose one with at least 9 functions.
Size and Capacity
Instant pots range from 3 to 8 quarts. A 3-quart pot is ideal for individuals or couples. A 6-quart model suits most families. Larger pots are perfect for meal prep. Think about how many people you regularly cook for.
Smart Programs
Smart programs simplify cooking. Models with more one-touch options make it easier to prepare different meals. Look for one with at least 11 smart programs to cover a variety of dishes.
Material Quality
The best instant pots use stainless steel for their inner pots. This material is durable and easy to clean. Some pots have plastic parts that may not last as long. Prioritize stainless steel for better performance.
User-Friendly Design
A clear display and straightforward buttons make cooking easier. Look for pots with easy-to-read controls. This helps prevent confusion during cooking, making the experience better.
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 dishwashers ENERGY STAR (EPA/DOE)
- ENERGY STAR refrigerators ENERGY STAR (EPA/DOE)
About the author
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