Updated: November 2025 | By Lily Clark
Lily Clark is a Test Kitchen Lead at shopbirdy and has tested more than 50 multi-cookers and pressure cookers over the past six years.
If you’ve ever wished your kitchen worked as efficiently as your smartphone, multi-cookers are the upgrade you didn’t know you needed.
Imagine replacing your rice cooker, slow cooker, pressure cooker, and sauté pan — all with one sleek, plug-and-play appliance.
Over the past few months, I’ve tested more than a dozen models right on my kitchen counter — tracking real cooking times, temperature consistency, sauté performance, and pressure release data.
This guide is based entirely on hands-on cooking — not product specs.
Let’s dig into which ones truly earn a spot on your countertop… and the one that didn’t make the cut.
What Is a Multi-Cooker?
A multi-cooker is like the Swiss Army knife of kitchen appliances — an electric pot that combines multiple cooking functions in one.
Depending on the model, it can pressure cook, slow cook, steam, sauté, make yogurt, or even air-fry — saving both space and effort.
The magic is in its sensors: it automatically regulates temperature and pressure to give consistent results without supervision.
You get perfectly cooked food, faster, and with less energy.
Why You’ll Love One
Benefit | Real-World Example |
Saves Time | My chicken curry cooked in 22 minutes instead of 45 on the stove. |
Healthier Meals | Uses less than 1 tbsp of oil for full flavor. |
Energy Efficient | Uses up to 70% less power than an oven. |
Hands-Off Convenience | Set-and-forget: auto “Keep Warm” after cooking. |
Space Saver | Replaces multiple single-use appliances. |
If you’re a busy parent, meal prepper, or someone who likes home-cooked food without the hassle — this category is made for you.
How I Tested
Each cooker stayed in my kitchen for at least two weeks. I cooked the same set of recipes in all of them to keep results fair and consistent.
My test menu:
- Chicken chili (pressure cook test)
- Brown rice and jasmine rice (grain setting)
- Beef stew (slow cook test)
- 1 lb beef sauté/sear test (browning speed)
- Yogurt (for models with that mode)
- Steamed vegetables (steam efficiency)
I measured preheat time, natural vs. quick pressure release, browning performance, and cleanup effort.
Below are my favorites — plus one that didn’t live up to its promises.
Multi-Cookers & Pressure Cookers Reviews
Instant Pot Duo Plus 9-in-1 — Best Overall Multi-Cooker
Price: ≈ $99 | Capacity: 6 qt | Power: 1000W | Functions: 9-in-1
The Instant Pot Duo Plus remains the best-selling multi-cooker in America for a reason. It’s intuitive, dependable, and does exactly what it promises — every single time.
It pressure cooks, slow cooks, steams, makes yogurt, sautés, and keeps food warm automatically.
What makes it stand out is consistency: no burned rice, no overcooked chicken, and no guesswork.
Real Cooking & Test Data
- Pressure Cook Test: Chicken chili finished in 22 minutes
- Natural Pressure Release: 11 minutes average
- Quick Release: 45 seconds
- Sauté Test: 1 lb beef seared in 4 minutes — nice browning for 1000W
- Rice: Jasmine rice cycle produced fluffy rice in 12 minutes
- Cleanup: Pot and lid dishwasher-safe; gasket removable
Pros
- Reliable and consistent results
- 15 smart programs simplify cooking
- Over 10 built-in safety features
- Stainless-steel inner pot (no coatings)
- Affordable and long-lasting
Cons
- Steam release is loud
- Condensation collects under the lid after storage
Verdict:
The Instant Pot Duo Plus 9-in-1 is still the best overall pick for 2025 — safe, affordable, and ideal for everyday cooking.
If you only buy one appliance this year, make it this.
Ninja Foodi OS300 — Best for Crispy Lovers
Price: ≈ $180 | Capacity: 6.5 qt | Power: 1460W | Functions: 9-in-1 + Air Fry
The Ninja Foodi is the multi-cooker for people who love texture — it pressure cooks, then crisps.
Its TenderCrisp Technology lets you cook a full chicken to juicy perfection, then finish it with a crackling golden crust — all in the same pot.
Real Cooking & Test Data
- Frozen Chicken Thighs: Fully cooked and crisped in 20 minutes
- Air Fry Fries: Golden brown in 12 minutes
- Sauté Test: 1 lb beef seared in 3.5 minutes (faster than Instant Pot)
- Natural Pressure Release: 9 minutes
- Quick Release: 40 seconds
- Cleanup: Ceramic-coated nonstick wipes clean effortlessly
Pros
- Combines pressure and air-fry modes
- Crisps food beautifully — real golden crust
- Handles frozen meats with ease
- Ceramic pot is PTFE/PFOA-free
Cons
- Large and heavy footprint
- Pricier than most entry models
Verdict:
The Ninja Foodi OS300 is the go-to for those who want their food tender inside and crispy outside.
If you love that fried finish without oil, this is your dream machine.
Crock-Pot 6-Quart Cook & Carry — Best Slow Cooker Alternative (For Potlucks)
Price: ≈ $65 | Capacity: 6 qt | Power: 240W | Function: Slow Cook Only
Let’s be clear — this is a pure slow cooker, not a pressure cooker.
But if you value low-and-slow flavor or bring dishes to potlucks, the Crock-Pot still earns a top spot.
Real Cooking & Test Data
- Beef Stew: 8 hours on Low — fall-apart texture
- Lasagna:5 hours — evenly cooked with caramelized edges
- Pressure Release: Not applicable
- Cleanup: Ceramic pot lifts out easily and is dishwasher-safe
Pros
- Excellent for set-and-forget cooking
- Locking lid perfect for travel
- Energy-efficient and simple to use
Cons
- Single function (slow cook only)
- Exterior gets warm after long sessions
Verdict:
If comfort food and convenience are your priorities, the Crock-Pot 6 Qt Digital remains the gold standard for slow cooking.
Zavor LUX LCD 8-Quart Multi-Cooker — Best for Large Families
Price: ≈ $160 | Capacity: 8 qt | Power: 1300W | Functions: 10+ (33 presets)
The Zavor LUX LCD feels like a premium appliance. It can pressure cook, slow cook, sauté, steam, and even make desserts — and it’s built like a tank.
This one’s perfect for meal preppers or anyone cooking for 5+ people.
Real Cooking & Test Data
- Whole Chicken: 35 minutes + 12 min natural release = perfect texture
- Brown Rice: 24 minutes
- Yogurt: 8 hours, thick and creamy
- Sauté Test: 1 lb beef browned in 3 minutes
- Natural Pressure Release: 12 minutes
- Quick Release: 50 seconds
Pros
- Huge 8-quart capacity
- Bright, easy-to-read LCD display
- 33 programmable settings
- Excellent safety and pressure regulation
Cons
- Takes longer to preheat due to size
- Slightly heavy for small counters
Verdict:
For big families or serious meal preppers, the Zavor LUX LCD offers unbeatable versatility and control.
The Cooker That Went Back: ChefPro X7 Smart Pot
Every test series needs a loser — and for me, that was the ChefPro X7.
Within a week, the lid seal loosened, steam release jammed, and the nonstick coating started chipping.
After three uses, I boxed it up. For $120, build quality this poor is unacceptable.
It’s proof that not every “multi-cooker” deserves a spot in your kitchen.
Performance Comparison Table
Model | Capacity | Power | Functions | Pressure Release (NPR/QR) | Best For | Key Highlights |
Instant Pot Duo Plus 9-in-1 | 6 qt | 1000W | 9-in-1 | 11 min / 45 sec | Everyday use | Safe, reliable, under $100 |
Ninja Foodi OS300 | 6.5 qt | 1460W | 9-in-1 + Air Fry | 9 min / 40 sec | Crispy & frozen foods | Pressure + air-fry combo |
Crock-Pot 6 Qt Digital | 6 qt | 240W | Slow Cook Only | — | Comfort meals | Best traditional slow cooker |
Zavor LUX LCD 8-Qt | 8 qt | 1300W | 10+ | 12 min / 50 sec | Big families | 33 presets, premium LCD |
Real Dishes I Cooked & Timing Notes
Dish | Cooker Used | Total Time | Result |
Chicken Curry | Instant Pot Duo Plus | 22 min | Thick, flavorful sauce, tender chicken |
Frozen Chicken Thighs | Ninja Foodi OS300 | 20 min | Juicy center, crisp skin |
Beef Stew | Crock-Pot 6 Qt | 8 hrs (Low) | Deep, slow-cooked flavor |
Brown Rice | Zavor LUX LCD | 24 min | Even texture, no sticking |
Yogurt | Zavor LUX LCD | 8 hrs | Creamy, consistent results |
Cleaning & Maintenance Tips
- Always cool before removing the lid and gasket.
- Use wooden or silicone utensils to protect nonstick interiors.
- Wash the sealing ring after each use (absorbs food odors).
- Never submerge the electric base; wipe dry only.
- Stainless-steel pots (Instant Pot, Zavor) last longest with daily use.
Pro Tip: For lingering smells in silicone rings, soak in white vinegar for 10 minutes — works every time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between a multi-cooker and a pressure cooker?
A pressure cooker uses steam pressure to cook food quickly, while a multi-cooker includes that function plus others like sauté, slow cook, and steam. In short, every multi-cooker can pressure cook, but not every pressure cooker can multi-cook.
Can I fry food in a multi-cooker?
Not exactly. You can sauté or lightly brown food in most models, but for true deep frying, you need higher temperatures than multi-cookers are designed for. The Ninja Foodi, however, has an air-fry mode that crisps food beautifully with minimal oil.
What size multi-cooker should I buy?
- 3–4 qt: Ideal for singles or couples
- 6 qt: The most versatile “family” size
- 8 qt+: Best for large families or meal prepping
If you’re unsure, go 6 qt — it’s the sweet spot for most recipes and households.
How long does it take to release pressure after cooking?
It varies by model and meal.
- Instant Pot Duo Plus: ~11 minutes natural release
- Ninja Foodi OS300: ~9 minutes
- Zavor LUX: ~12 minutes
For quick release, most models vent completely within 45–60 seconds.
Are nonstick multi-cooker pots safe?
Yes, as long as they’re PTFE and PFOA-free. Models like Ninja Foodi use ceramic nonstick coatings that are food-safe. If you prefer zero coating, go for stainless steel inserts like those in the Instant Pot and Zavor.
Can I cook frozen meat in a multi-cooker?
Yes! Pressure cooking handles frozen meats extremely well. The Ninja Foodi can turn frozen chicken thighs into tender, ready-to-eat meals in about 20 minutes total.
How long do multi-cookers last?
A quality unit (like Instant Pot or Zavor) lasts 4–6 years with regular use — longer if you replace gaskets annually and clean the valves properly. Avoid cheap unknown brands with poor sealing components.
What’s the easiest model to clean?
The Instant Pot and Zavor both have dishwasher-safe stainless inserts and removable gaskets. The Ninja Foodi’s crisping lid needs a quick wipe after every use, but its nonstick surface makes that simple.
Are multi-cookers safe?
Modern models are incredibly safe compared to old stovetop pressure cookers. They have multiple fail-safes, including locking lids, temperature sensors, and automatic pressure release systems.
Can I bake desserts in a multi-cooker?
Yes! Most models support cake or dessert settings. I’ve baked brownies and cheesecakes in the Instant Pot — they turn out moist and evenly cooked because of the even heat distribution.
Final Verdict
After testing and tasting across weeks of stews, rice, and crispy chicken, here’s the bottom line:
- Best Overall: Instant Pot Duo Plus 9-in-1 — the perfect mix of price, performance, and reliability.
- Best for Crisp Lovers: Ninja Foodi OS300 — unbeatable for pressure + air-fry combos.
- Best for Families: Zavor LUX LCD 8-Qt — large, powerful, and built to last.
- Best Slow-Cook Alternative: Crock-Pot 6 Qt Digital — still the comfort-food legend.
- Avoid: ChefPro X7 — poor build and unsafe sealing.
Multi-cookers don’t just make cooking easier — they give you your time back.
Dinner’s faster, healthier, and (most importantly) foolproof.
Legal Information
Shopbirdy.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.
About the Author
Lily is passionate about helping home cooks make smarter kitchen purchases. She researches cookware, appliances, and gadgets across trusted sources — comparing real customer experiences, brand specs, and expert reviews. Her goal is to simplify your shopping decisions with unbiased, easy-to-read comparisons.
How I Research
This guide comes straight from my kitchen counter.
Every appliance here was cooked with, not just unboxed. I note pressure times, temperature spreads, lid ergonomics, and cleanup effort during real use.
Each product stays in my rotation for at least two weeks before I decide whether it makes the list.
I also check verified buyer reviews, warranty updates, and brand reliability so the data reflects what’s actually shipping today, not last year’s version.
![T-Fal vs Calphalon [Head To Head Comparison]](https://shopbirdy.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/T-Fal-vs-Calphalon-.jpg)
