10 Best Instant Pots

Want the joy of a home-cooked meal, but don’t have the time to slave over a stove? Then you need the best instant pots on the market! Pressure cookers have been available for years, but the Instant Pot is a step above your average model. Most of the Instant Pot models do the work of seven or more kitchen appliances all in one! Not only is the Instant Pot versatile, but it is also convenient and very easy to use. There is a model out there for everyone, and we’re going to show you which options are the best, and the best for you! 

Top 10 Instant Pots

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1. Instant Pot Duo

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This product is overall one of the best Instant Pots on the market. Being a #1 Best Seller on Amazon, it is fully equipped with 14 one-touch programs. These programs allow for auto-pilot cooking of foods such as ribs, soups, poultry, beans, dessert, yogurt, and more! This pot does the work of seven other kitchen appliances, all in one! It can be a rice cooker, slow cooker, steamer, saute, pressure cooker, warmer, and even make yogurt. The stainless steel inner pot designs allow for this product to be dishwasher safe, and very durable. The easy-to-clean pot is also fingerprint-resistant. The Duo comes in three sizes to fit all types of living situations and spaces. The 3-quart model is perfect for dorm rooms! The pot also is programmed with three different temperature levels, temperature control, and the ability to recall old recipes! It is an excellent choice! 

Specifications

• Stainless steel inner pot
• “Delay Start” and “Keep Warm” tools
• Large handle on top for easy opening and closing
• Holds 5.89 Liters
• Safety lock
• Weights 11.8 Pounds
• Dishwasher safe

2. Instant Pot Ultra

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The Instant Pot Ultra is jam-packed with extra features that are perfect for experienced cookers who want to experiment with something new. Possessing 21 temperature settings, 16 one-touch programs, and 10 kitchen appliances all in one, this model has all the features a cook would need. The model has 11 safety features, including the steam release button for ultimate safety measures. The sleek blue LCD panel and center dial makes program selection and setting customization quick and easy. If you love to cook and are ready for more features, this option is for you! 

Specifications

• Dishwasher safe
• Altitude adjustments
• Customizable temperature settings 
• Cooking progress indicator 
• 11 safety features
• Comes with a steam rack, serving spoon, measuring cup, soup spoon, and recipe booklet 
• Incorporates 10 kitchen appliances all in one

Sample Customer Review… Love it! Instant Pot really outdid themselves this new upgrade. The home dial is so easy to use, just rotate and push for the program you want and customize from there. The pressure release button is the game-changer that I hoped they incorporated into their previous models and they did with this one. No more ducking steam – just a push of a button at the end of your program or 15 min natural release and you’re golden. I already own one instant pot and thought it would be wonderful to have one for veggies & desserts and one for meats. I purchased this on Sur La Table with a coupon and free shipping so that helped.

Read more reviews at Amazon.com.

3. Instant Pot Smart Wifi

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This Smart Wifi Multi-Cooker is by far one of the coolest models on the market. This model possesses all the usual features of an Instant Pot while also having the ability to connect to wifi and utilize Alexa. You can monitor the dish remotely through your phone, and the pot will send you alerts when your dish is almost finished. You can also add voice control and combine it with a pot with an Alexa device. Once downloading the Instant Pot, you unlock access to over 1,000 new recipes. The pot itself does the work over eight other home appliances such as a warmer, steamer, saute pan, slow cooker, pressure cooker, cake maker, rice cooker, and yogurt maker. It also offers ith 13 one-touch programs to make cooking as simple as pressing a button. 

Specifications

• Compatible with Amazon Alexa and wifi, just need to download the Instant Pot App or use voice with Alexa
• Comes with measuring cup, condensation collector, soup spoon, and stainless steel rack with handles 
• Comes with over 1,000 preprogrammed recipes via the Instant Pot App
• Smartphone alerts of dish status
• Dishwasher safe

Sample Customer Review… This is a wonderful addition to my kitchen and helped delete a couple. This isn’t your mother or grandmother’s pressure cooker. It is far easier to use, doesn’t “blow up” and is really easy to clean. One pan for sauteing, cook and keep warm. It is also the steamer and slow cooker. Granted, you can’t do two things at once so a little planning is required. Most of the time listed for prep is longer, but I am slow. I liked it so well, gave one to our daughter. She likes being able to get the meal on the table in just a short time. There are lots of recipes out there on the internet so buying a cookbook is only needed if you really want the book. You can find and some conversion instructions there as well. The timer lets you set up a time delay for the slow cooker part. You can go from frozen to cooked as well. I have had no problems with it.

Read more reviews at Amazon.com.

4. Instant Pot Lux

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This model is an excellent choice for beginners that want home-cooked meals fast and easy. Sometimes, less is more! This product can perform the tasks of six different appliances such as a warmer, steamer, saute, rice cooker, pressure cooker, and slow cooker. Cooking can be made simple by utilizing the autopilot feature to cook some of your favorite dishes. The stainless steel inner pot is dishwasher safe and very durable. The most popular model is the 6-quart, as it feeds up to 6 people! If you are new to the Instant Pot world, then this option is the best for you! 

Specifications

• Fingerprint resistant 
• Dishwasher safe
• Comes with a condensation collector, measuring cup, rice paddle, soup spoon, and stainless steel handled steam rack
• Comes in sizes 3-quart to 8-quart

Sample Customer Review… Oh my heavens this thing is amazing. It really does live up to the hype! I was extremely hesitant to purchase this but it was worth every last penny and more! I was nervous because I didn’t want to misuse this machine and waste money and I really didn’t want to end up with yet another dust-gathering item in my kitchen – but I was so glad to be proven wrong! The instant pot can replace most of the items I have lying around! My first attempt was a simple chicken and rice and it was the most tender, juicy, and delicious meal ever! I immediately called my mom and she has now bought her own. If you’re on the fence – just do it! You will not be sorry!

Read more reviews at Amazon.com.

5. Instant Pot Duo Nova

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This price-efficient and durable Instant Pot is perfect for larger families. The 10-quart model is one of the largest on the market and can make up to 10 servings. This model is a great choice for larger families or people who love to host a nice potluck! The pot does the work of seven appliances all in one (warmer, yogurt maker, saute pan, steamer, rice cooker, slow cooker, pressure cooker). The pressure settings are completely adjustable, so you can use high or low pressure for desired needs. Another great feature is the pot’s ability to remember cooking preferences and meals. If you love to cook a lot of food, this one is for you! 

Specifications

• Condensation collector, steam rack, sealing ring
• Comes in sizes 3-quart, 6-quart, 8-quart, 10 quart
• Intuitive controls 
• Dishwasher safe
• Smart Lid
• LCD  Screen

Sample Customer Review… Perfect addition to the Instant Pot family. This little pot does the same incredible job as its bigger brother and sisters. Great for making the side dishes or smaller main dishes. If you haven’t gotten on board the Instant Pot train, do not hesitate! This mini pot even makes yogurt. The benefits of pressure cooking are numerous, using the Instant Pot makes it incredibly easy. Can you tell I’m completely smitten with this little appliance?! It proudly sits on my counter and is used nearly every single day.

Read more reviews at Amazon.com.

6. Instant Pot Duo Crisp

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This Instant Pot with a built-in air fryer is the best of both worlds! The EvenCrisp Technology seamlessly air fry your food fast and easy. You can utilize the pressure cooker and then end the cooking process with a nice golden brown crisp coating. The model comes in an 8-quart model, which cooks for up to eight people. This model is equipped with 11-In-1 single-touch cooking programs as well as 10 plus built-in safety features. The new E asySeal lid automatically seals the pot for safe pressure cooking. 

Specifications

• Air fryer lid, protective pad, boil/ dehydrate tray, multi-level air fryer basket, steam rack, pressure cooking lid
• Dishwasher safe
• Cooks for up to 8 people 
• 10 plus built-in safety features, EasySeal automatic lid protects from unwanted spills

Sample Customer Review… What else can you say about this product? It will replace 3 appliances that I use on a regular basis-rice cooker, air fryer, and pressure cooker. That’s important to me because at this point kitchen space is at a premium. The packaging is great, the instructions are very clear and well written and it works very well. The first use was to make chicken bone broth using the pressure cooker feature. It worked flawlessly. 2 hours cook time. 10 min prep, 30 min to cool off. 3 hours later I had homemade bone broth in the refrigerator. And the whole house didn’t smell for 24 hours like it would with an open pot method. Anyway, the instant pot is a huge kitchen innovation in my opinion. Just get one, and use it!

Read more reviews at Amazon.com.

7. Instant Pot Duo Mini

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This model is a great option for singles or one to two people. It still has all of the other features of an Instant Pot, just at a smaller size. It possesses 14 single-touch cooking functions as well as being dishwasher safe. The compact nature of this pot makes it perfect for smaller settings such as a dorm room or small apartment.

Specifications 

• Compact Size, but still cooks a moderate amount of food 
• Has features of the Duo60, but in a smaller size
• Combines 7 kitchen appliances all in one (steamer, warmer, yogurt maker, saute, slow cooker, pressure cooker, rice cooker)
• Comes with condensation collector, stainless steel rack, measuring cup, recipe booklet
• Smart timer, keep warm setting

What else can you say about an Instant Pot except “perfection.” I already had a 6 quart Instant Pot which I love and another brand 3-quart pressure cooker. Although I used the 3 quarts a lot, it had a non-stick inner pot. I decided to buy this 3 quart Instant Pot because of the stainless steel pot which I prefer. I am only cooking for myself, but I like to make large portions of whatever I’m making so I can freeze and reheat it later. I make lots of homemade soups in my larger Instant Pot but love this 3 quart for making smaller portions, especially steel-cut oats for breakfast or a rice dish for dinner.

Read more reviews at Amazon.com.

8. Instant Pot Duo Plus

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For those who love the features of the instant pot duo but are looking for a little more, the Instant Pot Duo Plus boasts the added ability to make eggs, cakes and the ability to sterilize. Also helpful for those who have struggled to see previous instant pot screens, the Duo Plus has one of the brightest, biggest, and bluest screens to have been released so far. Do you often start cooking and realize that the cooking time or temperature you inputted is incorrect? This is no longer a worry with the Duo Plus as it allows the user to alter either input before or during cooking.

Specifications

• Comes with 15 built-in smart cooking programs
• Option of 3, 6, or 8-quart model
• Sterilization feature
• Dishwasher safe
• Access to instant pot recipes through the android or ios app

Sample Customer Review… I have had the Instant Pot for just over a week now. I love it. It has made cooking fun and although it is not always quicker, it is easier. I don’t have to stand over the stove to make sure my food won’t burn, it simply cooks and tells me when it’s done. Everything I’ve made in it so far has been a success including perfect hard-boiled eggs that peel very easily every time, oatmeal, delicious yogurt from a gallon of milk, the best rice I’ve ever made, and some terrific soups and even a pot roast. I really like my new appliance and will be using it frequently. One hint though does buy extra sealing rings, especially if you are going to be cooking sweet and savory items. the ring will retain odors and you don’t want your yogurt or oatmeal tasting like last night’s minestrone!

Read more reviews at Amazon.com.

9. Instant Pot Max

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This is the perfect model for the home chef looking to spend more in order to get the most out of their instant pot. At one of the highest price points, this option has the highest psi of the instant pot line at 15 psi. Offering the ability to do the job of nine kitchen appliances in one, the Instant Pot Max has features such as an LCD touchscreen, NutriBoost technology, and a steam release that can be programmed. Although using new technology can be intimidating, this upgraded version of the instant pot offers 13 safety mechanisms to help ease your mind when navigating the machine for the first time.

Specifications

• 6qt size
• 1,100 watts
• The automatic quick release feature
• NutriBoost technology
• Temperature control for sous vide within 1.8 degrees Fahrenheit
• Dishwasher safe

Sample Customer Review… I am no chef in the kitchen, my husband does all of the cooking for us. This instant pot was recommended by my friend’s mother, who makes Indian food, and has been teaching me how to cook properly. Since purchasing this, we have cooked a lot more diverse foods that would otherwise be time-consuming and complex. Instant pot max is my preferred model, with the automatic pressure release, it’s nearly foolproof. We have since purchased two of these, as we love to make large batches for eating later.

Read more reviews at Amazon.com.

10. Instant Pot Viva

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Very similar to the Duo but only offered through QVC, the Instant Pot Viva is offered in a different variety of colors than the duo. Also, along with the traditional instant pot features such as rice cooking and steaming, the Viva also has the ability to sear and make cakes. Like many of the other instant pots, it also comes with an LED screen. The fourteen smart programs and over ten built-in safety features on the Instant Pot Viva hold up to the quality of the Instant Pot name.

Specifications

• LED screen
• Over 10 Safety features
• 14 Smart Features
• Searing
• Cake Making
• Dishwasher safe

Sample Customer Review… This is the third instant pot that I’ve bought because I’m getting ready to move and I don’t want to leave my son’s father without his own instant pot. It’s easy to clean, it’s very versatile and very easy to use. I just love it … Gave it to my grandson for Christmas and he’s in college and has used it so much! He loves it and the young men that share the apartment love the meals

Read more reviews at Amazon.com.

The Total Instant Pot Buying Guide

Before diving into the Instant Pot world, it is important to note what it is exactly. Essentially, it is a fully versatile cooking machine that conveniently prepares dishes to your desired speed. The Instant Pot is both a slow cooker and a pressure cooker that is created to cater to various cooking needs, while also designed to eliminate uncertainty in the kitchen. Cooking times, cooking temperatures, desired pressures, are made simple with the assistance of the Instant Pot. You don’t have to be an experienced cook to use an Instant Pot, and it proves to be very convenient for almost any scenario. You have a dinner party coming up, weekly meal prep, or even just craving a home-cooked home-cooked meal, The Instant Pot is here to help! 

What Size Do I Need?

Currently, there are four Instant Pot sizes on the market: 3-quart, 6 quarts, 8 quarts, and 10 quarts. When deciding what size is best for you, a great way to start is with household size. If you live by yourself or want to cook for only 1-2 people, then the Mini or the 3-quart is the one for you. Out of all the models, the 6-quart proves to be the most popular. This model can feed an average of 3-6 people, and many of the recipes cater to this size. The 8 and 10 quarts are ideal for large families or meal prep. If you want to make your meals for the week in one sitting, then the 10-quart would be perfect for you. Also, if you are the go-to cook for big family parties, then the bigger quart models are also your perfect choice.

Special Features

Each Instant Pot is fully equipped with special features. The amount varies per model, but all Instant Pots come with single-touch features that make cooking easy. Some of these features are: pressure cook, air dry, dehydrate, broil, sous vide, saute, slow cook, cake maker, yogurt maker, and more! When choosing your Instant Pot it is very important to note which special features you would like, and then see which models have those options. If you are someone who loves to air fry, then the Instant Pot Duo Crisp Pressure Cooker would be perfect for you. Most of the core features are the same among models, and the fancier pots have fancier settings. 

Accessories

There are so many accessories that are compatible with the Instant Pot, that it is almost overwhelming, but thankfully we’re here to tell you some of our must-haves. 

Instant Pot Ceramic Non-Stick Interior Coated Inner Cooking Pot: All of the Instant Pots come fully equipped with stainless steel inside the cooking pot. If you tend to be a fan of non-stick cooking pots and pans, then this insert is a great choice. This product is easy to clean and dishwasher safe. 

Steamer Basket: This steamer basket comes in all sizes meant to fit whichever Instant Pot you have. The handle and feet are coated in a protective silicone to protect your hands from heat or steam. It makes straining your recipes comfortable and easy. 

Springform Pans: These pans come in a cake shape or a loaf shape. They are designed to make baking easier, as you can place the batter into the pan and then cook the pan in the pot. They also fit on steam racks, and are easy to clean!

Sealing Rings: These are perfect for when you decide to utilize the pressure and multi-cooker. The rings are designed to be heat resistant and to make cooking safer. This is a product that should be replaced about once a year to avoid cross-contamination,  as the food odors and residue can often stick. 

Maintenance

Perhaps one of the most convenient features of the Instant Pots is that they are easy to clean. The stainless steel inner pot, sealing rings, lid, and stream racks are dishwasher safe. Before cleaning, it is integral to ensure that the machine is not plugged in, and has had time to cool down after use. Cleaning the exterior is very simple, and a damp towel or wipe can do the trick. One helpful tip to getting rid of food that has hardened is to use a warm toothbrush to scrub all the food particles away. A good way to get rid of stains on the pot is to use a rinse of white vinegar and water! When cleaning the lid it is important to place it upside down until it is completely dry. You should wash it in warm water with soap, and let it soak. 

Conclusion

The best way to ensure a home-cooked meal is by using any of these best instant pots. There is virtually an Instant Pot for anyone and any space. Before making your purchase make sure to cross-reference all the ones that you like, to ensure your choice is the best. If you are a new cook, then choosing a basic model at first and then eventually graduating to a more advanced Instant Pot is always an option for you. Whichever model you end up choosing, it will be sure to help ensure you always have a home-cooked meal waiting for you.

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Written by Michaela Kayal and Tess Howard