The Instant Pot is a new and amazing invention that’s taking the kitchen appliance market by storm. With its extraordinary versatility and comparatively low price, this appliance really is something to be raved about by customers.
Instant Pot, the company, currently dominates the Instant Pot landscape. However, there are a few brands that are peeking out into the multi cooker space to introduce their own Instant Pots. Take a look at some of the best Instant Pots of 2020 to narrow down your buying choices!
Top 10 Best Instant Pot Reviews 2020
1. Instant Pot Ultra – Best Overall
The Ultra is one of Instant Pot’s most technologically advanced models. In comparison to other Instant Pot models, this unit has a sleeker and more stylish aesthetic. It clearly looks more refined and advanced on the surface, and given the 10-in-1 functionality, this is one of the best.
In terms of settings, this unit can replace a pressure cooker, slow cooker, rice/porridge cooker, yogurt maker, cake maker, egg cooker, sauté/searing, steamer, warmer, and sterilizer. Although this machine may be a bit large, overall it’s a major space saver.
The Instant Pot Ultra features a dial knob for adjusting settings, along with preset buttons, to make this unit very easy to use. Special features in this model include altitude adjustment, a cooking indicator, and a safety-improved steam release button.
For anyone worried about the safety of Instant Pots, you can put your worries behind you! The Ultra has 11 different safety mechanisms in place to keep users safe throughout the entire cooking process.
Pros
- 10-in-1 appliance (pressure cooker, slow cooker, rice/porridge cooker, yogurt maker, cake maker, egg cooker, sauté/searing, steamer, warmer, sterilizer)
- Altitude adjustment feature
- Cooking indicator
- Steam release button
- 11 safety features built-in
- Stylish control panel
- Stainless steel construction
- Digital settings screen
Cons
- Front dialing button gets stuck sometimes
- Very different from the standard Instant Pots; recipes may need revisions to compensate
2. TaoTronics TT-EE006 – Best Value
It might be a surprise to find an off-brand Instant Pot product at the top of this list as the best Instant Pot of 2020, but TaoTronics really packed in functionality, easy-of-use, and beauty into its TT-EE006 Instant Pot model.
To start with, the TaoTronics TT-EE006 Instant Pot has 10-in-1 functionality that includes egg maker, soup maker, and stew functions in addition the regular seven. Besides these 10 functions, this appliance also has 16 different built-in cooking settings to make your life easy.
This Instant Pot comes with some extra bonuses too, like a rice spoon, a meat spoon, measuring cup, steamer accessories, and a measuring cup. Also included with the purchase of this TaoTronics Instant Pot is an extra silicone seal and a recipe book.
Because of the extreme multifunctionality of this appliance, it’s possible to cook anything from brownies to lemon-rosemary chicken, all in the same machine (made separately, of course). Make sure to follow and test recipes carefully though, since most are made only for Instant Pot.
Pros
- 10-in-1 functionality
- Extras included (rice spoon, meat spoon, measuring cup, steamer accessories, measuring cup, extra silicone seal, recipe book)
- 16 built-in cooking settings
- Reasonably attractive stainless steel aesthetic
- Stainless steel cook pot
- Easy to clean
- Affordable
- Safety and cleanliness mechanisms built-in
Cons
- Not as sleek as some other models
- Off-brand product
- Some users have problems with the steam release valve
3. Instant Pot Lux 80 – Best for Budget
The Instant Pot Lux multi cooker model offers an 8-quart unit, one of the largest models on this list. This unit replaces fewer appliances than do other Instant Pot models, but it comes at a lower price point and offers a larger model that can be used for 6 or more people.
This particular Instant Pot has 6-in-1 functionality that includes a pressure cooker, rice cooker, steamer, slow cooker, sauté, steamer, and warmer. The sauté mode provides 3 heat levels (low, med., high) so that you can have control over the cooking process.
Unlike some of the other Instant Pots, which either have no sounds or are always fixed with the sound on, the Instant Pot Lux gives the user the choice to turn off/on sounds. This way, if you want to be quiet it’s more than possible to do so, but it’s just as fine to keep the sound on.
Some of the special features built into this Instant Pot is a 24-hour delayed start timer, a Keep Warm function that will stay on for up to 10 hours, and adjustable temperatures for slow cooking (and the aforementioned sautéing).
Pros
- 6-in-1 functionality (pressure cooker, rice cooker, steamer, slow cooker, sauté, steamer, warmer)
- Sound on/off function
- 3 heat levels for sautéing and slow cooking
- 24-hour delayed start timer
- Smudgeless stainless steel exterior (fingerprint resistant)
- 12 built-in cooking programs
- 10 safety mechanisms
Cons
- Only 4 hours of pressure cooking time
- Not as multifunctional as some other models on this list
4. Instant Pot Duo Mini – Best for Small Families
This is one of the smallest multi cookers produced by Instant Pot, and it’s perfect for small families or couples. It doesn’t have as many functions as some of the larger Instant Pots, but it still packs a punch in the realm of Instant Pots.
The Instant Pot Duo Mini is also ideal for travel because of its small size. It fits well in an RV or camper and can even be used on a camping trip. The unit emits no steam (there’s no uncomfortable window-fogging) and also is free of sound.
This unit provides users with cooking programs that are completely automatic, making this an easy-to-use machine. There are 3 settings for slow cooking as well as settings for sautéing, rice cooking, steaming, yogurt making, and automatic pressure cooking settings.
One cool feature of the Instant Pot Duo Mini is that it’s available in a few different colors. Depending on personal taste and/or kitchen aesthetic, customers can choose from a classic black or teal, white, or red (all combined with stainless steel for easy cleaning.
Pros
- Multiple color options available
- Emits no steam
- 7-in-1 (pressure cooker, slow cooker, sauté, rice cooker, steamer, yogurt maker, warmer)
- Automatic “Keep Warm” function
- Compact size
- Quiet when turned on
- Affordable
- 24-hour delay timer
- Built-in Smart programs
Cons
- Not ideal for large groups
- This particular unit will not work in Europe because it’s 110V and intended for use in North America.
5. Instant Pot Duo Plus – Least Complex Instructions
This Instant Pot is a 6-quart masterpiece that can perform 9 different functions completely by itself. With technology so advanced, it’s no surprise that this is one of the best Instant Pots on the market for 2020!
Like the Duo Mini, the Instant Pot Duo Plus is similar in style and functionality. But, as the “Plus” suggests, this unit replaces even more appliances. The Duo Plus is a pressure cooker, slow cooker, steamer, saute-er, rice cooker, yogurt maker, warmer, sterilizer, and egg/cake maker.
For people who don’t have the time to focus their attention on the settings of this machine, there are 15 different one-touch cooking presets for common types of food. This makes it possible to simply throw the ingredients in the pot and simply push the appropriate button to cook!
The Instant Pot Duo Plus also comes in an 8-quart size for people with bigger families. This 6-quart unit is good for families of four or small parties. With the use of this appliance, you’ll slowly find your diet changing to become healthier and your life will become more efficient.
Pros
- 15 one-touch cooking presets
- 9-in-1 appliance (pressure cooker, rice cooker, slow cooker, steamer, yogurt maker, sauté, egg/cake maker, sterilizer, warmer)
- Compact but roomy interior
- Easy-to-clean stainless steel exterior and interior
- 10 safety mechanisms built-in
- Dishwasher safe
- Comes with steam rack, inner pot, serving spoon, soup spoon, and measuring cup
Cons
- Instructions are lacking; some users had trouble with ease-of-use
- Outer rim cleanup is a bit difficult
6. Instant Pot Smart WiFi – Most Technologically Advanced
This is quite possibly one of the most unique Instant Pots available on the market this year. The Instant Pot Smart Wifi combines already high functionality with the possibility of controlling the unit from afar using a phone app, or even with Alexa using nothing more than your voice!
In essence, this unit is still very similar to other Instant Pots. It has 8-in-1 functionality with 13 preset cooking functions available to cooks. Besides the 7 normal functions, the Instant Pot Smart Wifi also has a cake maker function available.
With the Instant Pot app, which can be used with this appliance, customers are able to control their Instant Pot from afar. They receive cooking notifications and can share the updates with family members if needed, and everyone allowed access can check on cooking progress!
But, besides being wifi enabled, the Instant Pot Smart Wifi comes with some other goodies too. This appliance is packed with a steam rack, rice paddle, soup spoon, measuring cup, and a condensation collector. It has 10 safety mechanisms built-in.
Pros
- 8-in-1 appliance (pressure cooker, rice cooker, slow cooker, sauté, steamer, yogurt maker, warmer, cake maker)
- 13 cooking preset functions
- Can connect to wifi; accessible via a mobile device or Alexa
- Comes with accessories
- 10 safety mechanisms
- Stainless steel design
- Up to 6 hours of pressure cooking time
Cons
- Some customers struggled to set up wifi functionality
- App that goes with appliance has some problems
7. Mealthy MultiPot – Most Durable and Versatile
Mealthy is a kitchen appliance brand that is one of the few to create an off-brand Instant Pot. This MultiPot is fierce competition, and it offers up a unique appearance that may be preferable for some customers.
The construction of the Mealthy MultiPot makes it possible to cook 2 different meals at the same time, something that can’t be said of all Instant Pots. A 9-in-1 functionality makes this MultiPot a strong competitor with Instant Pot. Extra functions include a cake maker and pasteurizer.
The Mealthy MultiPot has 14 one-touch cooking presets to make cooking super easy. The presets cover some of the most popular meals, so it’s possible for busy cooks to get by with only these presets for a good period of time.
Some extras that come with the MultiPot include an extra silicone gasket, a steamer basket, silicone mitts, a ladle, steam rack, rice paddle, and measuring cup. With all these extras and the high functionality of the unit, it’s easy to consider this MultiPot as an Instant Pot alternative!
Pros
- 9-in-1 functionality
- Lots of useful extra pieces included
- 14 one-touch cooking presets
- Black exterior with sleek design
- Digital settings control
- Possible to cook 2 dishes at once
- 1-year warranty
Cons
- Not from the original Instant Pot brand
- Less functionality than some other models
8. Pioneer Woman – Best for Bakers
Two great brands combined into one on this Instant Pot. The Pioneer Woman brand and Instant Pot worked together to develop a vintage-style Instant Pot with all the style and all the modern technological functionality.
There are two patterns available with this Instant Pot: Breezy Blossom and Vintage Floral. As their names suggest, both of these themes are natural and feminine. A digital display with buttons for easy use adorns the front of the appliance.
Unlike most of the other pots on this list, the Pioneer Woman Instant Pot has fewer than 7 functions. This particular Instant Pot has only 6-in-1 functionality, which includes pressure cooker, slow cooker, rice cooker, sauté, steamer and warmer functions.
However, although there are fewer functions on this appliance, the 12 built-in programs allow the user to do things like baking and cooking eggs. Actually, this appliance excels at baking cakes, breads, and other similar sweet treats!
Pros
- Unique, vintage-style appearance with bright colors
- 12 built-in programs
- Ideal for baking
- 6-in-1 functionality (pressure cooker, slow cooker, rice cooker, sauté, steamer, warmer)
- Affordable
- Stainless steel cooking pot for easy clean up
- Easy to use
Cons
- Fewer functions and built-in settings than other Instant Pots on this list
- Not as much diverse functionality
9. Yedi Total Package – Most Sophisticated Aesthetic
This is a super sleek and good-looking machine. As one of the off-brand Instant Pots, the Yedi Total Package 9-in-1 multi cooker isn’t as popular, but that doesn’t mean that it’s not just as good (or even better) that the Instant Pot multi cookers.
Yedi has thought about what exactly customers would need to get the most out of their Instant Pot, and these accessories have been included. Two steam/egg racks and a steam pot, silicone mitts, an extra silicone ring, a measuring cup, a ladle, and a rice paddle are all a part of the set.
The Yedi Total Package has 9 functions, which are for pressure cooking, slow cooking, rice cooking, pasteurizing, yogurt making, steaming, warming, sautéing, and even for making cakes! The appliance has 15 one-touch settings for various foods in order to make cooking easier.
Besides having all this amazing versatility, this Yedi multi cooker allows the cook to input custom cook times and pressure levels if desired, which is a rare feature in the world of Instant Pots. The appliance is available in three different colors, which are black, copper, and stainless steel.
Pros
- 9-in-1 functionality (pressure cooker, rice cooker, steamer, slow cooker, sauté, warmer, yogurt maker, pasteurizer, cake maker)
- 15 one-touch cooking settings
- Deluxe accessory kit with all the necessary tools
- Ability to input custom cook times and pressure levels
- 3 colors available: black, copper, stainless steel
- Recipes and detailed instruction sheets included
- Ability to cook 2 dishes at once
- 10 built-in safety features
Cons
- Off-brand product
- Cook times may be longer than other Instant Pots
10. Power Pressure – Largest & Highest Functionality
The Power Pressure Instant Pot is the largest model on this list with a capacity of 10 quarts. The Instant Pot brand itself doesn’t yet make a model this large, so Power Pressure is filling a much needed niche with this product, which is ideal for very large families, parties, or gatherings.
This multi cooker is a 7-in-1 appliance with the ability to completely replace your 1-in-1 pressure cooker, rice cooker, slow cooker, and steamer, while also being able to sauté meat or vegetables with ease and efficiency.
There is a Keep Warm function available on this Instant Pot, which is perfect for making food ahead of time for a party. Plus, a delay time allows the cook to wait to start cooking a meal until just the right time. Never worry about overcooked or cold food ever again!
The Power Pressure Instant Pot was developed with the goal in mind to maintain as much nutrient content as possible in cooked foods. When foods emerge cooked from this multi cooker, they indeed maintain their freshness and many of their nutrients while still being fully cooked.
Pros
- 7-in-1 appliance
- 10-quart capacity
- Keep Warm function available
- Delay timer
- Stainless steel inner pot
- Easy to clean
- Smudgeless stainless steel exterior
Cons
- Not as much functionality as some other Instant Pots
- Aluminum lid
- Minimal information and recipes in user manual
What is an Instant Pot?
Instant pots are quickly becoming a major trend in the cooking appliance world. This appliance is similar to a pressure cooker in a lot of ways, but instead of being only one appliance it’s actually multiple appliances in one. So, you can cook almost anything with just one tool!
Because the instant pot is a multiple-in-one appliance, it saves counter space and money along with being more efficient. Modern instant pots are sleek and attractive, so besides decluttering the countertop they also add a bit of stylish flair to your kitchen aesthetic.
In terms of the name of this product, Instant Pot is actually in itself a brand and company name. Instant Pot pioneered the instant pot trend (of course), so some of the best quality models are from this company. However, there are a few other brands taking up the torch as well.
The thing to remember with Instant Pots is that, underneath all the frills, they’re multi-functional pressure cookers. Extraordinarily functional pressure cookers with an exceptional splay of uses, but for anybody confused by the Instant Pot, this is a good way to imagine it.
What Does an Instant Pot Do?
An instant pot is an extraordinarily versatile appliance. It is capable of handling a wide range of cooking tasks from pressure cooking to making yogurt. Different models have different functions, but most instant pots have some standard functions that are always included.
For example, most instant pots can function as slow cookers, rice cookers, pressure cookers, steamers, or even as a way to sauté or brown different foods. Certain types of instant pots have bonus features not included with most other models, so keep a lookout for unique functions.
The instant pot combines the functionality and technical specifications of various kitchen appliances in order to make one highly functional and efficient machine. This is a truly genius creation for many reasons.
Types of Instant Pot
There are a few different kinds of Instant Pots currently available on the market. The vast majority of Instant Pots are produced by Instant Pot, the originator of the appliance. But there are a variety of types of Instant Pots on the market, nonetheless.
Here are a few types:
- Instant Pot Ultra
- Instant Pot Max
- Instant Pot Nova
- Instant Pot Nova Plus
- Instant Pot Duo
- Instant Pot Duo Plus
- Instant Pot Lux
- Instant Pot Viva
- Instant Pot Smart Bluetooth (upgraded to Smart Wifi)
- Aura
- Aura Pro
Each of these models has slightly different functions along with different sizes, settings, and even color options. Of course, they all have similarities as well, but these different types of Instant Pots are different enough that some suit certain people more than others.
How to Choose the Best Instant Pot?
Although the Instant Pot brand Instant Pots may all seem the same on the surface, the truth is that these appliances have some important differences. And, with other companies starting to compete with Instant Pot, it’s necessary to know what to look for before buying.
Here are some of the most important things to consider before making a final Instant Pot purchase:
Size
Instant Pots come in different sizes ranging from small to large. Of course, it’s possible to find Instant Pots in other sizes as well, but most frequently these appliances have capacities ranging from 3 – 10-quarts, with 6-, 8-, and even 6.5-quart options available on the market.
Large models like the 10-quart Power Pressure model listed above are best for large families or parties and gatherings. As you might imagine, these appliances can be quite bulky, so they’re not the best choice for a small kitchen. But, because they’re multi-use, they save some space.
Couples, singles, and small families will appreciate the 3-quart Instant Pots. These are the most compact Instant Pot models currently on the market, and they’re perfect for cooking up amazing dishes for a small crowd.
Before choosing an Instant Pot, make sure that you take some time to think about how much food you’re planning to cook and for whom you’re planning to cook it. Even if you’re single, if you throw parties regularly you may choose a larger model, for example. Your needs are key.
Price
Instant Pots vary in price, although most are fairly affordable for the average person. Because this particular appliance combines a huge variety of appliances into one, the savings go beyond the already affordable price because it’s possible to invest in only one machine.
The Instant Pot brand alone offers customers an array of different models all with different prices to suit people with low or high budgets. Most people will be able to find an Instant Pot that will work well for them that they can easily purchase without breaking the bank.
Functionality
Some Instant Pots have more functions than others, and this is extremely important to keep in mind as you narrow down your choices. Even though a lot of Instant Pots share certain functions, there are a few that have more or less than average.
It’s possible to find an Instant Pot with 13-in-1 capabilities, while it’s also just as likely to locate one that has only 7-in-1 appliance functionality. Take a look at the specifications of each appliance to get a feel for what it can do and how you’d be able to use it in your kitchen.
The differences can be surprisingly dramatic, but the similarities remain the same. Instant Pots all have pressure cooking, slow cooking, rice cooking, and steaming capabilities, along with a few other features. Look closely and take stock before buying so that you know what to get.
Aesthetic
This may seem like a strange consideration, but it’s an essential part of the purchasing process with an Instant Pot. Because it’s very likely that this appliance will be a regular feature on your countertop, you want to make sure that it’s appearance will match your kitchen aesthetic.
The majority of Instant Pots are black and stainless steel with a digital display and buttons to control the settings. A few models provide other colors or slightly different design arrangements. If appearance is especially important to you, make sure to think about this carefully.
Frequently Asked Question’s About Instant Pot
Q: What can I cook in an Instant Pot?
Instant Pots are highly functional and can be used to cook many different dishes. Specifically, though, they’re able to cook anything a pressure cooker or slow cooker can handle! But, they’re also able to steam vegetables, sauté foods, or even do air frying!
In an Instant Pot, users can cook everything from banana bread and creamy yogurt to spaghetti, chicken and rice. The options are infinite! Be sure to take a look at online recipes to make sure that you’re using the Instant Pot in the right way.
Q: Is an Instant Pot the same as a pressure cooker?
Yes and no. Instant Pots can function as pressure cookers (and they do an excellent job in this capacity), but they aren’t only pressure cookers. An Instant Pot is a multi-cooker that can perform a variety of functions including — but not limited to — pressure cooking.
Q: What are the disadvantages of the Instant Pot?
Just like any appliance, the Instant Pot has its shortcomings. Despite being extremely functional, safe, and intuitive, there are certain things that users have complained about or noted as being a disadvantage of this tool.
The main disadvantage is that when cooking with the Instant Pot, like a pressure cooker, the cook cannot taste the food during the cooking process. As such, certain cooking techniques must be adjusted so that the cook achieves good-tasting results with this appliance.
Conclusion
The Instant Pot is a must-have kitchen appliance for the modern age. Multi-functional appliances are all the rage, especially right now, so this tool is extremely popular and has become a central feature of many kitchens across the world.