Best instant pot with air fryer: The Instant Pot Duo Crisp 11-in-1 wins for combining pressure cooking and air frying in one reliable machine. Countertop space is precious, and buying separate appliances for pressure cooking and air frying means double the storage headaches. We tested seven Instant Pot models that either combine both functions or excel at air frying to find which ones actually earn their spot on your counter.
| Product | Best For | Buy Link |
|---|---|---|
| Instant Pot Duo Crisp 11-in-1 | All-in-one versatility | Check Price |
| Instant Pot Vortex Plus 6QT | Budget air frying | Check Price |
| Instant Pot Pro Crisp 11-in-1 | Advanced features | Check Price |
| Instant Pot Vortex 6QT XL | Simple operation | Check Price |
| Instant Pot Vortex Plus ClearCook | Visual monitoring | Check Price |
| Instant Pot Vortex 5.7QT | Complete starter kit | Check Price |
| Instant Pot Omni Plus 19QT | Large family meals | Check Price |
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Instant Pot Duo Crisp 11-in-1 (Combo Unit)
The Duo Crisp arrived in a surprisingly compact box considering it houses both a pressure cooker base and an air fryer lid. We lifted the stainless steel inner pot first—it’s noticeably heavier than standalone air fryer baskets, with a solid feel that suggests durability. The air fryer lid clicks into place with a satisfying snap, and the first time we powered it on, the fan hummed quieter than we expected from a multi-function appliance.
Switching between pressure cooking and air frying became second nature after just two meals. We pressure cooked chicken thighs in 15 minutes, then swapped lids and air fried them for crispy skin without moving food to another appliance. The control panel responds immediately to touch, and the digital display stays bright enough to read across the kitchen. We noticed the stainless steel pot cleans easier than non-stick baskets—stuck-on bits released with a quick soak.
Pros:
- Two lids included eliminate the need for separate appliances, saving significant counter and storage space
- Pressure cooking function cuts meal prep time dramatically compared to air fryers alone
- Stainless steel inner pot resists scratching and handles metal utensils without damage
- 11 preset programs cover everything from yogurt making to sterilizing baby bottles
- 6-quart capacity handles family meals without requiring batch cooking
Cons:
- Switching between lids requires counter space to set down the unused lid during cooking
- Learning curve steeper than single-function appliances due to multiple cooking methods
- Air fryer lid stores separately, which some users find less convenient than integrated designs
My Recommendation
We recommend the Duo Crisp for households that want maximum cooking flexibility without cluttering their kitchen. The ability to pressure cook a pot roast and air fry vegetables using the same base unit makes weeknight dinners genuinely easier. We found ourselves using this more than our standalone air fryer because we could cook complete meals start to finish without switching appliances.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Small kitchens | Replaces two appliances with one compact footprint |
| Families of 4-6 | 6-quart capacity handles substantial portions in one batch |
| Multi-step recipes | Pressure cook then air fry without transferring food between devices |
Instant Pot Vortex Plus 6QT (Standalone Air Fryer)
This dedicated air fryer weighs just under 15 pounds, making it light enough to move from cabinet to counter without strain. The square basket maximizes usable cooking space—we fit six chicken thighs laid flat where round baskets would require stacking. Opening the drawer revealed a non-stick coating that released fried foods with a gentle shake, and the basket handle stayed cool enough to grip barehanded even after 20 minutes at maximum temperature.
What impressed us most was the consistent browning across the entire basket. We air fried frozen french fries without shaking halfway through, and they emerged golden from edge to edge. The touchscreen responds accurately, though we did notice slight delays when rapidly changing temperature settings. After a week of daily use, the basket still slides in and out smoothly without sticking.
Pros:
- Square basket design provides more usable surface area than circular models of similar quart capacity
- Six preset cooking programs simplify common tasks like roasting vegetables and reheating pizza
- Non-stick basket releases food easily and cleans quickly under running water
- Compact footprint fits under standard kitchen cabinets without requiring permanent counter space
- Even heat distribution eliminates the need for shaking food mid-cook in most recipes
Cons:
- No pressure cooking capability limits versatility compared to combo units
- Touchscreen occasionally requires firm presses to register input
- Single cooking basket means preparing multiple dishes requires sequential batches
My Recommendation
We recommend the Vortex Plus for anyone who already owns a pressure cooker or slow cooker and simply needs a dedicated air fryer. The straightforward operation makes it ideal for air frying beginners who find combo units overwhelming. We particularly appreciate this model for households that air fry daily but rarely pressure cook.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Air frying purists | Dedicated function means simpler operation and fewer parts to manage |
| Budget-conscious buyers | Competitively priced while delivering consistent performance |
| Quick weeknight meals | Preset programs eliminate guesswork for common foods |
Instant Pot Pro Crisp 11-in-1 (Premium Combo)
The Pro Crisp feels noticeably more substantial than the Duo Crisp when you lift it from the box. The control panel features a color display that shows cooking progress with visual indicators—we could glance from across the room and know exactly how much time remained. The pressure release valve operates more smoothly than earlier models, with a satisfying mechanical click when switching between sealing and venting positions.
We tested the steam release function extensively and found it genuinely useful for preventing countertop water spots. The automated steam release works quietly compared to manual quick-release methods, and our kitchen didn’t fog up during testing. The stainless steel construction extends to the inner pot rim, which resisted staining even after cooking tomato-based sauces repeatedly.
Pros:
- Color display provides clear visual feedback about cooking progress and remaining time
- Automated steam release prevents messy countertop condensation and reduces noise
- Enhanced pressure cooking settings include options for customizing pressure levels
- Stainless steel construction throughout resists staining and maintains appearance over time
- Improved sealing mechanism creates tighter pressure seal for faster cooking times
Cons:
- Premium pricing positions this above budget-friendly alternatives
- Color display adds features some users may not utilize regularly
- Heavier weight makes moving from storage to counter more cumbersome
My Recommendation
We recommend the Pro Crisp for experienced pressure cooker users ready to upgrade to more precise controls. The automated steam release alone justifies the step up if you frequently cook foods that benefit from controlled pressure release. We found the color display particularly helpful when managing multiple cooking stages without constantly checking the manual.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Serious home cooks | Advanced controls enable precise temperature and pressure adjustments |
| Upgrading users | Refinements address common frustrations with basic pressure cookers |
| Complex recipes | Multiple cooking stages benefit from automated transitions and clear progress tracking |
Instant Pot Vortex 6QT XL (Basic Air Fryer)
Weighing just over 14 pounds, the Vortex XL slides easily across countertops for storage. We noticed immediately that this model strips away advanced features in favor of straightforward operation—four buttons control the essential functions, and that simplicity proved refreshing during testing. The basket pulled out smoothly on its track, and the non-stick surface showed no scratching after two weeks of metal tong use.
Temperature consistency impressed us during extended cooking sessions. We roasted a whole chicken at 375°F for 45 minutes, and the internal temperature probe confirmed even cooking throughout. The fan noise stayed at a low hum rather than the aggressive whir some air fryers produce. Cleanup took less than two minutes—the basket and tray both fit in our dishwasher without blocking other dishes.
Pros:
- Simplified four-function design reduces learning curve for air fryer newcomers
- 6-quart capacity accommodates whole chickens or enough fries for family dinners
- Dishwasher-safe components make cleanup faster than hand-wash-only models
- Quiet fan operation allows conversation in the kitchen during cooking
- Lightweight construction makes moving and storing easier than heavier combo units
Cons:
- Limited to air frying functions without pressure cooking or other cooking methods
- Basic control panel lacks preset programs found on more advanced models
- No window or light to monitor food without opening the drawer
My Recommendation
We recommend the Vortex XL for households that prioritize ease of use over feature lists. The stripped-down controls mean anyone in the family can operate it confidently after one demonstration. We found this model particularly suitable for college students or first-time air fryer buyers who want reliable performance without complexity.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| First-time buyers | Simple operation eliminates intimidation factor of multi-function appliances |
| Minimalist cooks | Four essential functions cover most air frying needs without overwhelming options |
| Easy cleanup priority | Dishwasher-safe parts reduce time spent on maintenance |
Instant Pot Vortex Plus ClearCook (Window Design)
The transparent window on the ClearCook drawer changed how we monitored cooking progress. Instead of opening the basket and releasing heat to check browning, we simply looked through the glass. The window stayed remarkably clear during testing—we expected grease splatter to obscure visibility, but it wiped clean with a damp cloth. At 11.4 pounds, this proved the lightest model we tested, making it easy to retrieve from upper cabinets.
We appreciated the interior light that illuminates automatically when checking food. Watching vegetables brown in real-time helped us learn optimal cooking times faster than trial and error with opaque models. The basket slides on ball-bearing tracks that glide smoother than cheaper plastic guides. After three weeks of testing, the window seal remained tight with no air leaks affecting cooking performance.
Pros:
- Clear window with interior light allows visual monitoring without heat loss from opening drawer
- Lightweight design at 11.4 pounds makes daily handling and storage significantly easier
- Ball-bearing drawer tracks provide smooth, quiet operation over extended use
- Window construction maintains seal integrity without affecting air circulation
- Six preset programs cover common cooking tasks with one-touch convenience
Cons:
- Window requires regular cleaning to maintain visibility during cooking
- Slightly smaller capacity compared to non-window 6-quart models
- Interior light adds component that could eventually require replacement
My Recommendation
We recommend the ClearCook for visual learners who want to understand how air frying works. Watching food transform in real-time accelerated our learning curve with new recipes. We found this especially valuable when testing unfamiliar foods where timing guidelines varied widely between sources.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Recipe experimenters | Visual monitoring helps perfect timing without repeated trial batches |
| Teaching moments | Kids and new cooks learn by watching food brown and crisp in real-time |
| Precision cooking | Check doneness visually without disrupting cooking temperature |
Instant Pot Vortex 5.7QT With Accessories (Complete Kit)
This bundle arrived with multiple accessories that expanded cooking options immediately. The included baking pan, skewers, and drip tray meant we could roast kebabs and bake cornbread without buying additional equipment. At 12.17 pounds, the unit feels balanced when carrying, and the accessories nest inside the basket for compact storage. The non-stick coating on all components matched in quality—nothing flaked or scratched during our testing period.
The four-function simplicity kept operation straightforward while the accessories added versatility. We baked salmon on the included pan and the fish released cleanly without sticking. The rotisserie skewers held a small chicken securely, rotating evenly for consistent browning. Having everything needed to start cooking immediately made this feel like better value than buying a bare unit and purchasing accessories separately.
Pros:
- Included accessories eliminate need for separate purchases to expand cooking methods
- Baking pan enables cakes, cornbread, and other recipes impossible in standard baskets
- Rotisserie skewers add functionality typically found only in larger, expensive models
- All components nest together for storage efficiency
- Four core functions keep operation simple despite expanded accessory options
Cons:
- Accessories require separate washing and storage space when not in use
- Slightly smaller 5.7-quart capacity compared to 6-quart models limits batch sizes
- Learning to use all accessories takes time and experimentation
My Recommendation
We recommend the Vortex with accessories for buyers who want to explore beyond basic air frying immediately. The included tools encouraged us to try recipes we would have skipped with a standard basket. We found this particularly appealing for gift-giving—recipients get everything needed to start experimenting right away.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Recipe adventurers | Accessories enable diverse cooking methods from rotisserie to baking |
| Gift purchases | Complete kit provides everything needed without requiring additional shopping |
| Value seekers | Bundled accessories cost less than purchasing separately later |
Instant Pot Omni Plus 19QT Toaster Oven (Large Capacity)
The Omni Plus dominates counter space with its 19-quart capacity and 29.25-pound weight. We needed both hands to position it, and it became a permanent counter fixture during testing rather than something we stored away. The glass door opens wide to reveal three rack positions, and the interior light illuminates a surprisingly spacious cooking chamber. The stainless steel exterior showed fingerprints easily but wiped clean without special cleaners.
Ten cooking functions transform this from an air fryer into a genuine multi-cooker. We toasted bread evenly across all slots, dehydrated apple slices overnight, and rotisserie-cooked a five-pound chicken without crowding. The convection fan circulates air more powerfully than smaller units—we heard it working but found the noise acceptable given the capacity. The crumb tray slides out from the front for easy cleaning, catching drips that would otherwise bake onto the heating elements.
Pros:
- 19-quart capacity handles large family meals or batch cooking for weekly meal prep
- Ten cooking functions replace multiple appliances including toaster, dehydrator, and rotisserie
- Three rack positions enable cooking multiple dishes simultaneously at different heights
- Rotisserie function includes spit and forks for whole chickens and roasts
- Interior light and glass door allow monitoring without opening and releasing heat
Cons:
- Substantial 29.25-pound weight and large footprint require permanent counter placement
- Learning curve steep due to ten different cooking functions and settings
- Preheating time longer than smaller air fryers due to larger interior volume
My Recommendation
We recommend the Omni Plus for large families or serious meal preppers who cook in substantial quantities. The ability to air fry vegetables on one rack while roasting chicken on another genuinely simplified dinner preparation. We found this most valuable for households that regularly cook for six or more people or batch-cook meals for the week.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Large families | 19-quart capacity cooks enough food for 6-8 people in single batches |
| Meal preppers | Multiple racks enable cooking several dishes simultaneously for weekly planning |
| Appliance consolidation | Replaces toaster, toaster oven, air fryer, and dehydrator with one unit |
Buying Guide: What to Look for in an Instant Pot Air Fryer
Combo vs. Standalone: Decide whether you need pressure cooking capabilities. Combo units like the Duo Crisp and Pro Crisp save counter space by combining two appliances, but they require swapping lids and learning dual functions. Standalone air fryers like the Vortex models offer simpler operation if you already own a pressure cooker or don’t need that functionality.
Capacity Considerations: Match capacity to household size. The 5.7-6 quart models handle families of four comfortably. Larger households benefit from the 19-quart Omni Plus, which cooks multiple dishes simultaneously. Remember that air fryers work best when food isn’t crowded—a 6-quart basket filled to maximum capacity won’t crisp as effectively as the same basket with proper spacing.
Feature Complexity: More functions don’t always mean better performance. We found four-function models perfectly adequate for most cooking needs, while 10+ function units appeal to adventurous cooks who’ll actually use dehydrating and rotisserie capabilities. Consider whether you’ll realistically use advanced features or if they’ll just complicate operation.
Cleaning Requirements: Check whether components are dishwasher-safe. Stainless steel pots clean easier than non-stick baskets in our testing, though they weigh more. Models with removable crumb trays and accessible heating elements simplify maintenance. Window designs like the ClearCook require regular glass cleaning to maintain visibility.
Counter Space Reality: Measure your available counter space before buying. The Omni Plus requires permanent placement due to its size and weight, while lighter Vortex models store in cabinets between uses. Consider whether you’ll actually store the appliance away or if it needs to look presentable as a permanent fixture.
Final Verdict
The Instant Pot Duo Crisp 11-in-1 wins our overall recommendation for combining pressure cooking and air frying without requiring two separate appliances. Households seeking dedicated air frying should choose the Vortex Plus 6QT for its balance of capacity and affordability. The Pro Crisp suits experienced cooks who want advanced controls and automated steam release. Large families cooking for six or more should seriously consider the Omni Plus 19QT despite its substantial footprint—the ability to cook complete meals simultaneously justifies the counter space. For first-time buyers, the Vortex 6QT XL offers straightforward operation without overwhelming features, while the ClearCook window design helps visual learners master air frying techniques faster.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you pressure cook and air fry at the same time in combo models?
No, combo units like the Duo Crisp and Pro Crisp require you to use one function at a time since they have separate lids for each cooking method. However, you can pressure cook food first, then swap to the air fryer lid to crisp the same food without transferring it to another appliance. This sequential cooking proves especially useful for dishes like chicken that benefit from tender pressure cooking followed by crispy air frying. The ability to use the same pot for both steps saves cleanup time and dishes.
How much counter space do these units actually require?
Standalone air fryers like the Vortex models need approximately 12-14 inches of width and depth, with at least 5 inches of clearance above for heat ventilation. Combo units require similar footprints but need additional space to set down the unused lid during cooking. The Omni Plus toaster oven demands roughly 18 inches of width and 16 inches of depth, making it suitable only for spacious counters. We recommend measuring your available space and leaving extra room for opening drawers and doors fully without obstruction.
Do air fryer lids work with older Instant Pot pressure cooker bases?
Instant Pot sells compatible air fryer lids separately that fit 6-quart and 8-quart Duo, Ultra, and Lux models manufactured after 2018. However, we found that buying the complete Duo Crisp combo often costs less than purchasing a separate lid, and the combo includes a base specifically designed to work with both lids. Check your existing pressure cooker model number before buying a separate lid to ensure compatibility, as older models may have different rim designs that prevent proper sealing.
How does air frying in these compare to traditional deep frying?
Air fryers produce noticeably different results than deep frying—foods develop crispy exteriors but with less overall crunch and a different texture. We found that frozen foods designed for air frying work best, while foods expecting deep-fry submersion sometimes disappoint. The health benefits prove significant though, using tablespoons of oil instead of cups. French fries, chicken wings, and vegetables air fry excellently, while battered foods like tempura don’t achieve the same results as traditional deep frying. Adjust expectations accordingly rather than expecting identical outcomes.
What’s the learning curve like for someone new to both pressure cooking and air frying?
Expect to spend two to three weeks experimenting before feeling confident with combo units. We recommend mastering one function before attempting the other—start with simpler air frying, then progress to pressure cooking once comfortable. Standalone air fryers have gentler learning curves, with most users feeling confident after four to five cooking sessions. The preset programs help considerably during the learning phase, though understanding manual time and temperature adjustments takes practice. Keep a notebook of successful times and temperatures for your favorite foods to build a personal reference guide.