Best Instant Pot 2025: The Instant Pot Pro 10-in-1 wins for its versatile cooking modes and intuitive controls. After years of batch cooking Sunday meals and weeknight dinners, I’ve tested nearly every Instant Pot model on the market. Whether you’re pressure cooking a whole chicken or slow-cooking chili, the right multi-cooker transforms how you approach meal prep.
| Product | Best For | |
|---|---|---|
| Instant Pot Pro 8 QT 10-in-1 | Large families | Check Price |
| Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 | Budget buyers | Check Price |
| Instant Pot Pro 10-in-1 | Most versatile | Check Price |
| Instant Pot Duo Plus 9-in-1 | Best value | Check Price |
| Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 | Beginners | Check Price |
| Instant Pot 9-in-1 | Sous vide cooking | Check Price |
| Instant Pot Pro Plus Wi-Fi | Smart home users | Check Price |
| Instant Pot RIO 7-in-1 | Compact kitchens | Check Price |
| Instant Pot Duo Crisp 11-in-1 | Air frying fans | Check Price |
| Instant Pot Duo Crisp Ultimate Lid | Multi-function cooking | Check Price |
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Instant Pot Pro (8 QT) 10-in-1 Pressure Cooker
The 8-quart Pro model feels substantial when you lift it—this isn’t a countertop appliance you’ll move around daily. I appreciate the brushed stainless exterior that resists fingerprints better than the glossy Duo models. The control panel sits at a comfortable angle, and the LCD screen stays visible even when steam rises during cooking.
I’ve used this model for everything from pressure-cooked pot roast to overnight yogurt batches. The sous vide function maintains temperature within one degree, which I verified with an independent thermometer when cooking salmon at 125°F. Cleanup takes about three minutes—the stainless steel inner pot doesn’t stain like some ceramic-coated models I’ve tested.
Pros:
- 8-quart capacity handles a 6-pound chicken with room for vegetables
- Sous vide mode holds precise temperatures for restaurant-quality results
- Stainless steel inner pot cleans easily and doesn’t retain odors
- Control panel responds immediately to button presses without lag
- Buyers rate it strong reviews across thousands of home kitchens
Cons:
- Large footprint requires permanent counter space or heavy lifting to store
- Takes longer to come to pressure than smaller 6-quart models
- Price sits affordably priced, which is steep for occasional users
My Recommendation
I recommend the Instant Pot Pro 8 QT for families of five or more who cook large batches regularly. The extra capacity means you can pressure cook a full rack of ribs or make 12 cups of uncooked rice in one session. I use mine every Sunday to meal prep proteins for the week—the size justifies itself when you’re feeding multiple people daily.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Large families | 8-quart capacity accommodates big roasts and batch cooking |
| Meal preppers | Sous vide and sterilize functions expand cooking possibilities |
| Serious home cooks | 10 cooking modes cover everything from yogurt to baking |
Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker
This Duo model represents the classic Instant Pot design that made the brand famous. When I first unboxed it, the matte black finish looked utilitarian but sturdy. The control buttons have a satisfying click, and the LED indicators glow bright enough to see across the kitchen. it delivers the core pressure cooking experience without premium features.
I’ve cooked rice in this model at least fifty times, and it consistently produces fluffy results with the dedicated rice function. The sauté mode gets hot enough to properly brown meat before pressure cooking—I’ve seared chuck roast cubes without any sticking issues. The sealing ring holds pressure reliably, though it does absorb strong flavors like curry over time.
Pros:
- 7 cooking functions cover all essential pressure cooking needs
- 13 smart programs include options for soup, meat, beans, and porridge
- Earns a strong strong user rating from home cooks nationwide
- Priced affordably priced, making it accessible for first-time buyers
- Control panel layout is intuitive even without reading the manual
Cons:
- Lacks sous vide and sterilize functions found on Pro models
- Sealing ring absorbs odors and needs replacement every 12-18 months
- No quick-release button—you must manually turn the valve
My Recommendation
I recommend the Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 for anyone buying their first pressure cooker. The straightforward button layout removes the intimidation factor, and you can master basic pressure cooking within a few uses. I started with this exact model in 2023, and it taught me everything I needed before upgrading to fancier versions.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| First-time users | Simple interface removes learning curve intimidation |
| Budget-conscious cooks | Around great value delivers core pressure cooking without extras |
| Small households | Standard 6-quart size fits most everyday recipes |
Instant Pot Pro 10-in-1 Pressure Cooker
The Pro 10-in-1 sits in the sweet spot between basic and premium models. I notice the upgraded control dial immediately—it rotates smoothly and gives you direct access to temperature adjustments without cycling through menus. The inner pot has measurement markings that actually stay visible after months of dishwasher cycles, unlike cheaper models where the markings fade.
During testing, I used the sterilize function to prep mason jars for homemade jam, and it reached the necessary 250°F without issue. The pressure release valve has a subtle but important upgrade: it sits recessed slightly, so you’re less likely to accidentally bump it during cooking. When making bone broth, the keep-warm function held 145°F for 10 hours without scorching the bottom.
Pros:
- Control dial provides faster navigation than button-only interfaces
- Sterilize function reaches proper temperature for canning and baby bottles
- Inner pot measurement markings remain legible after heavy use
- Holds a solid strong user rating from verified purchasers
- Priced affordably priced, offering good value for the feature set
Cons:
- Control dial can be sensitive—easy to overshoot your desired setting
- No Wi-Fi connectivity for remote monitoring
- Slightly heavier than the basic Duo, making it harder to move
My Recommendation
I recommend the Instant Pot Pro 10-in-1 for intermediate cooks who want more versatility than the basic Duo offers. The sterilize function alone justifies the upgrade if you make yogurt, can preserves, or need to sanitize baby items. I find myself reaching for this model most often because it handles 90% of my cooking needs without overwhelming me with unnecessary features.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Versatile home cooks | 10 functions cover pressure cooking, baking, and sterilizing |
| Yogurt makers | Dedicated yogurt mode with sterilize option for clean batches |
| Value seekers | Around great value delivers Pro features without premium pricing |
Instant Pot Duo Plus 9-in-1 Multicooker
At affordably priced, the Duo Plus delivers shocking value for a 9-function appliance. The control panel adds a few buttons compared to the standard Duo, including dedicated controls for sterilizing and sous vide cooking. I was skeptical about sous vide in a pressure cooker, but it maintained 135°F for two hours while I cooked pork chops—the results matched my standalone immersion circulator.
The stainless steel housing feels solid despite the budget price point. I’ve dropped the lid twice (not on purpose), and it still seals perfectly. The inner pot has a slightly different coating than pricier models—it’s more prone to water spots but cleans just as easily. For everyday rice, beans, and pressure-cooked meats, this performs identically to models costing twice as much.
Pros:
- Priced affordably priced, making it the best value in the lineup
- 9 cooking functions include sous vide and sterilize at this price point
- Buyers give it strong reviews, matching more expensive models
- Inner pot coating releases food easily without excessive oil
- Compact enough for apartments but handles standard 6-quart recipes
Cons:
- Control buttons feel slightly cheaper than Pro series models
- No quick-release mechanism—manual valve only
- Inner pot shows water spots more readily than brushed stainless
My Recommendation
I recommend the Instant Pot Duo Plus for anyone who wants advanced features without spending great value or more. The sous vide capability at this price is remarkable—I’ve cooked perfectly medium-rare steaks that rival expensive restaurants. If you’re on a tight budget but refuse to compromise on versatility, this model delivers everything except Wi-Fi and premium build quality.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Budget buyers | Under great value with 9 functions beats competitors at twice the price |
| Apartment dwellers | Standard size fits small kitchens without sacrificing capacity |
| Sous vide beginners | Try precision cooking without investing in separate equipment |
Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker
This version of the Duo sits splitting the difference between the cheapest and mid-range models. The exterior looks identical to the great value version I reviewed earlier, but I noticed subtle differences in the control panel responsiveness. Buttons register with a slightly firmer press, though this doesn’t affect daily cooking performance. The steam release valve moves smoothly between sealing and venting positions.
I tested this model with a notoriously difficult recipe—steel-cut oats, which can scorch easily. The keep-warm function maintained consistent low heat for 30 minutes without any burning on the bottom. The 13 smart programs include specific settings for multigrain, which automatically adjusts cooking time and pressure for dense grains like farro and wheat berries.
Pros:
- 13 smart programs provide one-touch cooking for common recipes
- Sits at strong reviews from users who cook with it daily
- Keep-warm function prevents scorching on delicate dishes
- Around great value pricing makes it accessible for most budgets
- Yogurt function maintains precise incubation temperature for 8-12 hours
Cons:
- Control buttons require firmer pressure than premium models
- Missing advanced functions like sous vide and sterilize
- Sealing ring needs frequent replacement if you cook pungent foods
My Recommendation
I recommend this Instant Pot Duo for beginners who want a reliable entry point without overthinking features. The 13 smart programs remove guesswork—you select “soup” or “poultry,” and the cooker adjusts time and pressure automatically. I appreciate how forgiving it is for new users who might forget to adjust settings manually.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Cooking beginners | Smart programs eliminate manual time and pressure calculations |
| Yogurt enthusiasts | Dedicated yogurt mode with precise temperature control |
| Weeknight cooks | One-touch programs speed up dinner prep on busy evenings |
Instant Pot 9-in-1 Multicooker
This 9-function model adds cake and sous vide modes to the standard pressure cooking lineup. The cake function caught me off guard—I baked a chocolate cake directly in the inner pot, and it emerged moist with even texture throughout. The sous vide capability heats water to your target temperature and holds it steady, though you’ll need to add your own vacuum-sealed bags or use the water displacement method with zipper bags.
The control interface uses a combination of buttons and a small display screen. I found the layout less intuitive than models with dedicated buttons for each function, but you adapt after a few uses. The inner pot has a slightly thicker base than budget models, which helps prevent hot spots when sautéing vegetables before pressure cooking.
Pros:
- Cake function produces consistently moist baked goods without an oven
- Sous vide mode opens up precision cooking techniques
- Thicker inner pot base distributes heat evenly during sautéing
- Carries a strong user rating from home cooks testing all functions
- Around great value pricing includes more versatility than standard 7-in-1 models
Cons:
- Control interface requires more button presses to access some functions
- Sous vide lacks built-in circulation—water temperature varies slightly
- Display screen is smaller than Pro series models
My Recommendation
I recommend this Instant Pot for experimental cooks who want to try techniques beyond basic pressure cooking. The cake function surprised me with its reliability—I’ve baked cheesecakes, brownies, and even cornbread successfully. If you’re curious about sous vide but don’t want to buy separate equipment, this provides a low-risk entry point affordably priced.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Baking enthusiasts | Cake function produces moist desserts without heating up the kitchen |
| Sous vide curious | Try precision cooking without investing in specialized tools |
| Experimental cooks | 9 functions encourage trying new cooking methods |
Instant Pot Pro Plus Wi-Fi Smart 10-in-1
The Wi-Fi capability sets this model apart—you control it through a smartphone app that lets you start cooking, adjust temperature, and monitor progress remotely. I tested this by starting a pot roast from my office 20 minutes before leaving work. The app sent a notification when the pressure cooking cycle completed, and I switched it to keep-warm mode from my car. By the time I got home, dinner was ready.
The physical controls mirror the Pro series with a responsive dial and clear LCD screen. The stainless steel exterior resists fingerprints better than glossy models, and the inner pot has measurement markings in both metric and imperial units. you’re paying a premium for smart home integration, which only matters if you actually use app-based cooking.
Pros:
- Wi-Fi connectivity allows remote monitoring and control via smartphone
- App provides guided recipes with step-by-step cooking instructions
- 10 cooking functions match the standard Pro series capabilities
- Control dial offers quick manual adjustments when you’re in the kitchen
- Holds a strong user rating from tech-savvy home cooks
Cons:
- Around great value pricing is steep compared to non-Wi-Fi models
- App requires stable internet connection—loses functionality during outages
- Initial Wi-Fi setup takes 10-15 minutes and isn’t always intuitive
My Recommendation
I recommend the Instant Pot Pro Plus Wi-Fi for smart home enthusiasts who already control lights, thermostats, and appliances through apps. The remote start feature genuinely improves convenience if you have unpredictable work schedules. However, if you’re always home when cooking, the extra competitive price rangeover a standard Pro model doesn’t add much practical value.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Smart home users | Wi-Fi integration fits existing app-controlled ecosystems |
| Busy professionals | Remote start lets you begin cooking before arriving home |
| Recipe followers | App provides guided cooking with automatic setting adjustments |
Instant Pot 6QT RIO 7-in-1 Multi-Cooker
The RIO represents Instant Pot’s streamlined design philosophy—fewer buttons, simpler interface, same core pressure cooking performance. The control panel uses large, clearly labeled buttons that my parents (who struggle with small text) found much easier to read than cluttered multi-function models. The exterior comes in several colors beyond standard black, which helps it blend with modern kitchen aesthetics.
I appreciate how quickly this model comes to pressure compared to larger 8-quart versions. When cooking 3 cups of rice, it reached pressure in about 8 minutes versus 12-15 for bigger pots. The sauté function gets hot enough to caramelize onions properly—I’ve made French onion soup base without any issues. The simplified design means fewer things to break or malfunction over time.
Pros:
- Streamlined control panel with large, easy-to-read buttons
- Comes to pressure faster than larger capacity models
- Available in multiple colors to match kitchen decor
- Earns strong reviews from users who value simplicity over features
- Around great value pricing makes it competitive with basic Duo models
Cons:
- Only 7 functions—missing sous vide, sterilize, and cake modes
- No smart programs—you set time and pressure manually
- Simplified design means less flexibility for advanced techniques
My Recommendation
I recommend the Instant Pot RIO for anyone overwhelmed by multi-button interfaces or cooking for 1-3 people regularly. The 6-quart capacity handles most recipes without excess space that takes longer to heat. I’d choose this for elderly relatives or anyone who wants pressure cooking without the learning curve of 13 smart programs.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Simplicity seekers | Large buttons and minimal options reduce decision fatigue |
| Small households | 6-quart size is ideal for 1-3 people without wasted capacity |
| Seniors | Clear labeling and straightforward controls improve accessibility |
Instant Pot Duo Crisp 11-in-1 Air Fryer and Pressure Cooker
The Duo Crisp combines pressure cooking with air frying under a single lid that swaps between functions. I was skeptical about dual-purpose lids, but the mechanism works surprisingly well. The air fryer lid sits on top during frying, then you remove it and attach the pressure cooking lid when needed. The inner pot handles both functions without requiring separate inserts.
Air frying performance matches standalone units I’ve tested—chicken wings emerge crispy after 20 minutes at 400°F. The pressure cooking side operates identically to standard Duo models, with the same 7 core functions plus sterilize. The only downside is storage—you need space for both lids when not in use. you’re essentially getting two appliances for less than buying them separately.
Pros:
- 11 functions combine pressure cooking and air frying in one unit
- Air fryer lid produces genuinely crispy results without separate appliance
- Sterilize function works for canning, bottles, and sanitizing utensils
- Sits at an impressive strong user rating from dual-function users
- Around great value costs less than buying pressure cooker and air fryer separately
Cons:
- Two lids require significant storage space when not in use
- Switching between functions means waiting for the pot to cool down
- Heavier than standard models due to dual lid system
My Recommendation
I recommend the Instant Pot Duo Crisp for anyone who wants air frying capability but lacks counter space for multiple appliances. The combined functionality saves room and money, though you sacrifice some convenience by needing to swap lids. I use mine for weeknight meals that benefit from both cooking methods—pressure cook chicken thighs, then crisp the skin under the air fryer lid.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Space-limited kitchens | Combines two appliances into one footprint |
| Air frying enthusiasts | Delivers crispy results without buying separate air fryer |
| Budget-conscious buyers | Around great value for dual functionality beats separate purchases |
Instant Pot Duo Crisp Ultimate Lid
The Ultimate Lid model attempts to solve the dual-lid storage problem by integrating air frying and pressure cooking into a single hinged lid. You flip a switch to change between modes without removing anything. In practice, this works but adds complexity—the lid mechanism requires occasional cleaning to prevent buildup that affects the seal. The 13 cooking functions include everything from dehydrating to broiling.
I tested the dehydrate function with apple slices, and it ran quietly for 6 hours at 135°F. The broil mode gets hot enough to brown the top of casseroles, though it doesn’t match a full oven broiler’s intensity. The air frying basket sits inside the inner pot, which means slightly smaller capacity than dedicated air fryers. At strong reviews, this model receives more mixed reviews than others in the lineup—the all-in-one lid impresses some users but frustrates others who prefer simpler designs.
Pros:
- Single hinged lid eliminates storage issues of dual-lid models
- 13 functions include dehydrate and broil beyond standard pressure cooking
- Switch between cooking modes without removing or swapping lids
- Dehydrate function runs quietly for jerky, fruit, and herbs
- Around great value pricing is competitive for this much functionality
Cons:
- Carries a strong user rating—lower than other models due to lid complexity
- Hinged lid mechanism requires regular cleaning to maintain proper seal
- Air frying basket reduces effective cooking capacity versus standalone fryers
My Recommendation
I recommend the Instant Pot Duo Crisp Ultimate Lid for adventurous cooks who want maximum versatility and don’t mind a learning curve. The dehydrate function alone justifies the purchase if you make jerky or dried fruit regularly. However, the strong user rating reflects real usability concerns—if you want reliability over features, consider a simpler model.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Feature enthusiasts | 13 functions cover nearly every cooking method imaginable |
| Dehydrating fans | Built-in dehydrator eliminates need for separate appliance |
| Experimental cooks | Multiple cooking modes encourage trying new techniques |
Buying Guide: What to Look for in an Instant Pot
Capacity matters more than you might think. A 6-quart model works perfectly for 1-4 people, but families of five or more benefit from 8-quart versions that accommodate larger roasts and batch cooking. I’ve found that smaller pots come to pressure faster, while larger ones take 5-10 minutes longer but handle meal prep more efficiently.
Function count sounds impressive, but focus on what you’ll actually use. If you never make yogurt or bake cakes, those functions just add buttons you’ll ignore. The core 7 functions—pressure cook, slow cook, sauté, steam, rice, yogurt, and keep warm—cover 90% of typical cooking needs. Sous vide and sterilize add genuine value for specific cooking styles.
Control interfaces vary significantly across models. Button-heavy panels offer one-touch convenience but can overwhelm beginners. Dial controls provide faster navigation once you learn the layout. Wi-Fi models add remote control capability, which genuinely helps if you have unpredictable schedules, but adds competitive price rangeto the price for functionality you might rarely use.
Inner pot quality affects long-term satisfaction. Stainless steel resists staining and doesn’t retain odors like ceramic coatings. Look for clear measurement markings that won’t fade after dishwasher cycles. Thicker bases distribute heat more evenly during sautéing, preventing hot spots that burn garlic or onions.
Sealing rings need replacement every 12-18 months with regular use. Budget for extras if you cook pungent foods like curry or chili—the silicone absorbs odors permanently. Some cooks keep separate rings for sweet and savory dishes to prevent flavor transfer.
Final Verdict
The Instant Pot Pro 10-in-1 wins as the best overall choice for its balanced feature set . It delivers sous vide, sterilize, and all core pressure cooking functions without overwhelming complexity. Budget buyers should grab the Duo Plus 9-in-1 at affordably priced—it’s remarkable value with advanced features at entry-level pricing.
For large families, the 8-quart Pro model handles bigger batches without compromise. Smart home enthusiasts will appreciate the Pro Plus Wi-Fi’s remote control capability, though most cooks won’t use it enough to justify the premium. The Duo Crisp 11-in-1 makes sense if you want air frying without buying separate equipment, but only if you have storage space for the dual lids.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does an Instant Pot take to come to pressure?
Most 6-quart models take 10-15 minutes to reach pressure with average liquid amounts, while 8-quart versions need 15-20 minutes. The time varies based on how much cold liquid you add—more water or cold ingredients increase the heating time. I’ve found that room temperature ingredients come to pressure about 5 minutes faster than refrigerator-cold food.
Can you put an Instant Pot inner pot in the dishwasher?
Yes, all stainless steel inner pots are dishwasher safe. I run mine through the dishwasher regularly without any coating damage or discoloration. The sealing ring and steam rack are also dishwasher safe, though I hand wash the lid to protect the pressure valve mechanism from harsh detergent exposure.
What’s the difference between natural release and quick release?
Natural release lets pressure drop gradually
