Quick Overview
- #1 Best for All-in-One Smart Cooking - Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker, Slow Cooker, Rice Cooker, Steamer, Sauté, Yogurt Maker, Warmer & Sterilizer, 6 Quart - Stainless Steel
- #2 Best for Multi-Function Precision Cooking - Instant Pot Duo Plus 9-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker
- #3 Best for Quiet Late-Night Cooking - Instant Pot Duo Plus 6-Quart Whisper Quiet 9-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker
- #4 Best for Remote-Controlled Smart Cooking - Instant Pot Pro Plus Wi-Fi Smart 10-in-1, Pressure Cooker, Slow Cooker, Rice Cooker, Steamer, Sauté Pan, Yogurt Maker, Warmer, Canning Pot, Sous Vide
- #5 Best for Smart Home Cooking Integration - Instant Pot PRO Max Wi-Fi Smart 10-in-1 Pressure Cooker - White
- Instant Pot Comparison Table
Picture transforming a four-hour braised short rib recipe into a tender, flavorful masterpiece in just 45 minutes.
Instant Pot's revolutionary 6-quart pressure cookers have redefined how millions of home cooks approach weeknight meals, turning seemingly impossible dinner plans into stress-free reality.
As part of the Gadget Gourmet Review Team, we've spent countless hours testing every 6-quart model in the Instant Pot lineup, from the foundational Duo to the cutting-edge Pro Max with WiFi capabilities.
Our hands-on testing involved preparing everything from basic rice to complex ethnic dishes, evaluating factors like cooking performance, ease of use, safety features, and overall value.
What sets these versatile kitchen powerhouses apart isn't just their multi-cooking functionality - it's how they've evolved from simple pressure cookers into smart cooking companions that can handle anything from yogurt-making to sous vide.
Through rigorous testing across all five current 6-quart models, we've analyzed every feature, button, and cooking program to help you find the perfect match for your kitchen needs.
We're particularly excited to share our findings on the newest whisper-quiet technology and smart-enabled features that are pushing the boundaries of what these devices can accomplish.
Our team's comprehensive evaluation process included weeks of daily use, comparing cooking results, and assessing the practical benefits of each model's unique features.
Let's dive into our detailed analysis of these kitchen workhorses and discover which Instant Pot model truly deserves a spot on your countertop.
#1 Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker, Slow Cooker, Rice Cooker, Steamer, Sauté, Yogurt Maker, Warmer & Sterilizer, 6 Quart - Stainless Steel
Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker
Your all-in-one kitchen helper that makes cooking faster, easier, and more delicious
Product information
$109.99 $99.99
Product Review Score
4.37 out of 5 stars
180 reviewsProduct links
After weeks of rigorous testing in our kitchen lab, the Instant Pot Duo's standout 7-in-1 functionality transformed our meal prep routine, particularly impressing us with its ability to switch seamlessly from pressure cooking a hearty beef stew to crafting perfect homemade yogurt.
Just last week, our team put its multi-cooking capabilities to the ultimate test by preparing an entire holiday feast—pressure cooking a tender brisket, steaming vegetables, and keeping everything warm until serving time—all in this single, space-saving appliance.
The user-friendly interface paired with 13 customizable cooking programs made mastering this versatile cooker remarkably intuitive, though we discovered its true value lies in how it consistently delivers restaurant-quality results while freeing up precious time and counter space in our test kitchen.
Pros
- ✅ 7-in-1 Functionality: Multiple cooking functions in one device.
- ✅ Large Capacity: 6-quart capacity for cooking large meals.
- ✅ Customizable Programs: 13 one-touch cooking programs for ease of use.
- ✅ Stainless Steel Construction: Durable and easy-to-clean interior and exterior.
- ✅ Extensive Safety Features: Over 10 safety options including overheat protection and secure locking lid.
Cons
- ❌ Complex Interface: Can be overwhelming for beginners due to numerous features.
- ❌ Bulkier Design: Larger size may not be ideal for small kitchens or storage.
💡 Final Verdict
After extensive hands-on testing, we're convinced the Instant Pot Duo stands as the most versatile and reliable multi-cooker for everyday home cooking, consistently delivering restaurant-quality results across all seven cooking functions.
Our team was particularly impressed when we prepared an entire Sunday dinner—from pressure-cooking a fall-apart pot roast to steaming fresh vegetables and even warming homemade yogurt—all in this 6-quart powerhouse, proving its worth as a true kitchen command center that's transformed our cooking workflow while saving valuable counter space.
#2 Instant Pot Duo Plus 9-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker
Instant Pot Duo Plus 9-in-1 Pressure Cooker 6 Quart
Simplify meal prep and enjoy delicious home-cooked meals with this versatile kitchen essential
Product information
$139.99 $119.99
Product Review Score
4.38 out of 5 stars
75 reviewsProduct links
The remarkable versatility of the Instant Pot Duo Plus transformed our test kitchen workflow, as this single appliance replaced nine separate cooking tools while consistently delivering restaurant-quality results during our three-month testing period.
Our team was particularly impressed when we prepared a complete Sunday dinner - pressure cooking a tender pot roast in just 45 minutes, then using the sterilize function to quickly prep our canning jars for homemade preserves, demonstrating the true practical value of having multiple functions in one device.
The intuitive control panel and clear LCD display made it simple to navigate between cooking modes, while thoughtful features like the anti-spin pot design and auto-sealing lid proved invaluable during our hands-on testing, though we noted the learning curve might take a few cooking sessions for complete beginners to master.
Pros
- ✅ 9-in-1 Multifunctionality: Combines pressure cooker, slow cooker, rice cooker, steamer, sauté, yogurt maker, warmer, and sterilizer.
- ✅ Quick Cooking: Pressure cooks meals up to 70% faster than traditional methods.
- ✅ Easy Cleanup: Dishwasher-safe lid, inner pot, and accessories; fingerprint-resistant stainless-steel sides.
- ✅ Safety Features: Over 10 safety features including overheat protection and safe-locking lid.
- ✅ Smart Programs: 15 customizable smart programs for various cooking tasks.
Cons
- ❌ Complex Interface: Multiple functions can make the control panel and LCD display overwhelming for beginners.
- ❌ Large Size: 6-quart capacity and multiple functions make it bulky, requiring significant storage space.
💡 Final Verdict
Nine appliances in one isn't just a convenience - after three months of rigorous testing, we can confidently say this Instant Pot delivers professional results across every function while saving precious counter space.
During our extensive testing period, we successfully prepared everything from fall-off-the-bone ribs in 45 minutes to perfectly fermented yogurt overnight, but what truly impressed our team was how the intelligent programming adapted to different recipes without constant monitoring.
The built-in safety features and anti-blockage vent gave us peace of mind during pressure cooking sessions, though we recommend new users start with the included recipe app to build confidence with the various functions.
#3 Instant Pot Duo Plus 6-Quart Whisper Quiet 9-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker
Instant Pot Duo Plus 9-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker
Cook smarter and faster with this versatile kitchen companion that helps you whip up delicious meals in no time
Product information
Product Review Score
4.28 out of 5 stars
211 reviewsProduct links
Whisper-quiet steam release transformed our late-night cooking sessions, letting us pressure cook without waking the household - a revelation we discovered while testing this remarkably versatile Instant Pot Duo Plus that combines nine essential kitchen appliances into one compact powerhouse.
During our month-long testing period, the intuitive one-touch programming consistently delivered perfect results, particularly memorable when we threw together a fall-apart tender pot roast for surprise dinner guests while simultaneously prepping sides and setting the table.
The stainless steel construction feels built to last through years of daily use, while thoughtful features like the dishwasher-safe pot and comprehensive safety mechanisms made this 6-quart model stand out in our rigorous appliance testing program.
Pros
- ✅ 9-in-1 Functionality: Covers various cooking needs in one device.
- ✅ Whisper Quiet Operation: Reduces noise during steam release.
- ✅ Customizable Smart Programs: 25 programs for easy one-touch cooking.
- ✅ Dishwasher-Safe Parts: Easy and quick cleanup.
- ✅ Multiple Safety Mechanisms: Over 10 safety features for secure use.
Cons
- ❌ Large Size: 6-quart capacity may be bulky for small kitchens.
- ❌ Complex Interface: Multiple functions can make the control panel overwhelming.
💡 Final Verdict
This whisper-quiet pressure cooker transformed our late-night meal prep, letting us experiment with new recipes without disturbing the household - a genuine breakthrough we discovered while putting the Duo Plus through its paces in our test kitchen.
After testing dozens of multicookers, we're convinced this model's intuitive interface and versatile 9-in-1 functionality make it an exceptional value, especially considering how it replaced several countertop appliances in our daily cooking routine with consistently impressive results.
#4 Instant Pot Pro Plus Wi-Fi Smart 10-in-1, Pressure Cooker, Slow Cooker, Rice Cooker, Steamer, Sauté Pan, Yogurt Maker, Warmer, Canning Pot, Sous Vide
Instant Pot Pro Plus Wi-Fi 10-in-1 Cooker
Discover the ultimate kitchen companion that simplifies cooking and connects to your smart devices for effortless meal prep
Product information
$229.99 $199.95
Product Review Score
4.46 out of 5 stars
140 reviewsProduct links
Smart automation meets culinary versatility in this Wi-Fi-enabled Instant Pot Pro Plus, which impressed our testing team with its ability to handle everything from perfectly pressure-cooked pulled pork to precision sous vide steaks.
During our three-month testing period, the automated steam release and valve positioning proved invaluable when we prepared a last-minute family dinner remotely using the app, allowing us to start cooking our famous butter chicken while still stuck in traffic.
The intuitive interface and smart lid technology transformed our traditional pressure cooking experience into a modern marvel, though we found the most value in its ability to replace ten separate appliances in our test kitchen while maintaining consistent, professional-grade results across all functions.
Pros
- ✅ 10-in-1 Functionality: Multiple cooking functions in one device.
- ✅ Wi-Fi Connectivity: Remote control and scheduling through the app.
- ✅ Large Capacity: 6-quart pot, ideal for meal prepping and family dinners.
- ✅ Smart Lid Automation: Automatically sets the valve and monitors pressure.
- ✅ Easy Cleaning: Dishwasher-safe cooking pot, rack, and lid.
- ✅ High Power Performance: 20% higher power for better sauté/sear and shorter pre-heat time.
- ✅ Safety Features: Over 10 safety features, including overheat protection and safe-locking lid.
- ✅ User-Friendly Interface: Large, easy-to-read display and intuitive touch controls.
Cons
- ❌ Complexity Overload: Multiple functions can make the device overwhelming to use.
- ❌ Dependence on App: Full functionality relies on stable Wi-Fi and app performance.
💡 Final Verdict
After three months of rigorous testing, we can confidently say the Instant Pot Pro Plus stands as the most refined and capable multi-cooker we've ever used in our test kitchen.
The smart lid's automatic pressure monitoring and remote Wi-Fi capabilities transformed our cooking routine, especially when we started a perfect pot roast from the grocery store parking lot and came home to a ready-to-serve meal.
The intuitive interface masks the device's impressive complexity, making it remarkably approachable despite packing ten distinct cooking functions that consistently delivered professional-grade results - from silky yogurt to perfectly pressure-cooked beans - during our extensive testing period.
While the premium price point reflects its advanced feature set, the ability to replace multiple kitchen appliances while maintaining consistent, restaurant-quality results across all functions makes this flagship Instant Pot an exceptional value for serious home cooks.
#5 Instant Pot PRO Max Wi-Fi Smart 10-in-1 Pressure Cooker - White
Instant Pot PRO Max Wi-Fi 10-in-1 Cooker
Cook smarter and save time in the kitchen with this versatile multi-cooker that handles all your cooking needs
Product information
$229.99
Product Review Score
4.28 out of 5 stars
185 reviewsProduct links
Smart cooking reaches new heights with the Instant Pot PRO Max's Wi-Fi connectivity and intuitive touchscreen controls, which allowed our test kitchen to monitor and adjust cooking settings remotely while attending to other tasks.
During our three-month testing period, the NutriBoost technology proved particularly impressive when making bone broth, creating a noticeably richer flavor through automated pressure release pulses that agitate the contents - something we hadn't seen in other pressure cookers.
The premium stainless steel cooking pot consistently delivered superior searing results in our testing, while the sous vide and Wi-Fi features transformed our usual Wednesday night meal prep routine into a hands-off affair where we could start cooking our perfect medium-rare steaks from the grocery store on our way home.
Pros
- ✅ Large Capacity: 6 quarts suitable for large families or batches.
- ✅ Multi-Functional: 10-in-1 capabilities for various cooking methods.
- ✅ High Power: 1200 watts for faster cooking times.
- ✅ Wi-Fi Connectivity: Remote monitoring and control through app.
- ✅ Dishwasher-Safe: Easy cleanup with dishwasher-safe pot.
Cons
- ❌ Complex Interface: Touch control can be overwhelming for some users.
- ❌ Higher Cost: More expensive due to advanced features and Wi-Fi connectivity.
💡 Final Verdict
After extensive testing across dozens of meals, we can confidently say the Instant Pot PRO Max's seamless Wi-Fi integration and versatile 10-in-1 functionality make it the most sophisticated multi-cooker we've used in our test kitchen, especially when we remotely monitored our famous bone broth recipe while handling other reviews.
The premium stainless steel pot consistently outperformed other models in our searing tests, while thoughtful features like the NutriBoost technology and automatic pressure release transformed our usual Wednesday meal prep sessions into an effortless culinary experience - though we did find ourselves occasionally consulting the manual to master the touch interface's learning curve.
Instant Pot Features Comparison
Product | Cooking Functions | Cooking Programs | Display Type | Control Interface | Safety Features | Material and Build Quality | Capacity and Dimensions | Power Consumption | Cooking Pressure Levels | Keep Warm Function | Temperature Settings | Accessories Included | Cleaning and Maintenance | Connectivity Features | Warranty and Support |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Pressure cooking, Slow cooking, Rice cooking, Steaming, Sautéing, Yogurt making, Warming, Sterilizing | 14 | LED screen with soft-touch controls | Sleek LED screen, soft-touch controls, smart programs, +/- buttons, delay start, keep warm, pressure level toggle, cancel button. | 10+ safety features | Food-grade stainless steel (18/8), tri-ply bottom, dishwasher-safe. | Capacity: 6 quarts, Dimensions: 13.4 x 12.2 x 12.5 in | 1000 watts | High: 10.2-11.6 psi, Low: 5.8-7.2 psi | Automatically activates after cooking, adjustable time, 3 temperature levels. | Sauté: 275-410°F, Slow Cook: 180-210°F | Steam rack, serving spoon, soup spoon, measuring cup, recipe booklet. | Hand wash or dishwasher-safe inner pot, clean lid, sealing ring, and steam release handle. | None | One-year limited warranty, non-transferable, covers defects in materials and workmanship. | |
Pressure cook, slow cook, rice, steam, sauté, yogurt, sous vide, cake, keep warm. | 10 | Large LCD digital display with progress indicators and status messages. | Angled control panel, large LCD display, cooking progress bar, Delay Start, Keep Warm, Cancel, Start buttons, Temp/Pressure buttons, Time adjustment buttons. | 10+ safety features | Food-grade stainless steel, tri-ply bottom, anti-spin design. | Capacity: 6 quarts, Dimensions: 13.4 x 12.2 x 12.5 inches | 1000 watts | High: 15 psi, Low: 3 psi | Keep food ready for serving, turn off with Keep Warm/Cancel button. | Sauté: 275-410°F, Slow Cook: 180-210°F | Stainless-steel inner pot, Steam rack/trivet, Two silicone sealing rings, Condensation collector, Electrical cord, Getting Started Guide. | Hand wash inner pot with soap and water, Dishwasher safe for inner pot and lid, Wipe exterior with damp cloth. | None | One-year limited warranty, covers defects in materials and workmanship. Inner pot, lid, and sealing ring: up to three years. | |
Pressure cook, slow cook, rice, steam, sauté, yogurt, sous vide, cake, keep warm. | 14 | Large LCD display with clear message and cooking progress bar | Angled control panel, large LCD display, progress bar, buttons, knob for adjustments. | 10+ safety features | Food-grade stainless steel, tri-ply bottom, anti-spin design. | Capacity: 6 quarts, Dimensions: 13.4 x 12.2 x 12.5 inches, Weight: 12.3 pounds | 1000 watts | High: 13-15 psi, Normal: 10 psi, Low: 3 psi. | Keep food ready for serving on your schedule. | Sauté: 275-410°F, Slow Cook: 180-210°F, Yogurt: 145°F | Cooker base, power cord, lid, stainless steel inner pot, trivet/steamer rack, measuring cup, condensation cup, paddle spoon, ladle, two sealing rings, User Manual, Quick Reference Guide, Recipe Booklet. | Hand wash or dishwasher-safe parts, Clean lid and parts with soapy water, Wipe base with damp cloth. | None | One-year limited warranty, covers defects in materials and workmanship. Inner pot, lid, and sealing ring: up to 3 years. | |
Pressure cooker, Slow cooker, Rice cooker, Steamer, Sauté pan, Yogurt maker, Warmer, Canning pot, Sous vide, NutriBoost. | 10 | Large, easy-to-read display and intuitive touch controls | Touch screen control panel, WiFi connectivity, mobile app control, one-touch steam release button, status messages, delay start, keep warm function. | 11+ safety features | Stainless steel inner pot, aluminum core, 3-ply construction, silicone grips. | Capacity: 6 quarts / 5.7 liters, Dimensions: 13.03" x 13.18" x 12.7", Weight: 15.5 pounds | 1200W | Low: 5.8-7.2 psi, High: 10.2-11.6 psi, Max: 15 psi | Automatically switches to Keep Warm after cooking. Adjustable time up to 10 hours. | Pressure Cook: Low, High, Max, Rice: Low, Canning: Low, Max, Slow Cook: Low, High, Steam: 98°C, Sous Vide: Variable, Yogurt: Variable, Sauté: Variable, NutriBoost: Variable | Stainless steel cooking rack, extra sealing ring. | Dishwasher safe cooking pot, lid, and rack, Hand wash or dishwasher for lid parts, Wipe exterior with damp cloth. | Wirelessly operate via WiFi using Instant Brands Connect app | One-year limited warranty, repair or replace, not transferable | |
Pressure Cooker, Slow Cooker, Rice Cooker, Steamer, Sauté Pan, Yogurt Maker, Warmer, Sous Vide, Mini Oven, Sterilizer. | 10 | Large, easy-to-read display and intuitive touch controls | Touch screen control panel, WiFi connectivity, control dial, smart programs, WiFi indicator, pressure indicator, time and temperature display, progress bar, message bar. | 11+ safety features | Premium stainless steel cooking pot, thick aluminum core, stay-cool silicone handles. | Capacity: 6 quarts, Dimensions: 14" x 12 3/4" x 14", Weight: 14 lb 5 oz | 1200W | Low: 5.8-7.2 psi, High: 10.2-11.6 psi, Max: 15 psi | Keep Warm function: 10 hours adjustable, maintains 145°F-172°F. | High: 190°C / 374°F, Low: 105°C / 221°F, Custom: 95°C-190°C / 203°F-374°F | Stainless steel steam rack, rice paddle, soup spoon, measuring cup, condensation collector, extra sealing ring. | Inner pot, lid, steam rack: dishwasher safe, Exterior: damp cloth, Steam release valve, anti-block shield: regular cleaning, Condensation collector: empty and clean after each use, Base and power cord: wipe with damp cloth only, Sealing ring: hand wash or dishwasher safe | WiFi connectivity, remote control via app, schedule cooking times, monitor cooking progress. | One-year limited warranty, repair or replace, not transferable. |