10 Best Instant Pots 2026 in the United States

The Instant Pot Pro 10-in-1 Pressure Cooker is a versatile kitchen appliance that delivers a wide range of cooking functions, making it a great fit for anyone looking to simplify meal preparation. With its capability to pressure cook, slow cook, and even make yogurt, this model truly shines in its multifunctionality. The included 28 customizable cooking programs and 5 programmable favorites mean that users can easily prepare their go-to meals with minimal hassle. Its 6-quart capacity is perfect for larger families or for meal prepping, allowing you to cook enough food for multiple servings at once.

One of the standout features is its advanced safety system, which includes overheat protection and a gentle steam release to minimize mess. This added safety is beneficial for those who may be new to using pressure cookers, making it less intimidating.

While it excels in many areas, there are a few drawbacks. The size and weight (13.2 pounds) may not be ideal for everyone, especially those with limited counter or storage space. Additionally, while the user interface is touch-controlled and generally straightforward, some may find it a bit overwhelming given the variety of functions available. Cleaning is made easier since the components are dishwasher safe, but some might still find it a bit cumbersome to navigate around the various parts after cooking. For those who enjoy cooking and want a reliable, multifunctional appliance that caters to diverse meal options, the Instant Pot Pro is a strong contender, provided they have enough space and are willing to invest a little time in learning its full range of capabilities.

The Instant Pot Duo Plus 9-in-1 is a versatile kitchen appliance that combines nine cooking functions including pressure cooking, slow cooking, sautéing, steaming, rice cooking, yogurt making, warming, sterilizing, and even sous vide. Its 3-quart size is compact, making it a smart choice for small households or those who want a smaller secondary cooker for side dishes. The stainless steel cooking pot with a tri-ply bottom is a great feature for even heating and professional-style searing. You’ll appreciate the quick cooking times—up to 70% faster than traditional slow cooking—and the 13 one-touch smart programs simplify meal preparation. The user interface is straightforward with touch controls and status lights that keep you informed about the cooking progress.

Safety is well covered with over 10 built-in mechanisms like overheat protection and a secure lid lock, which adds peace of mind during use. Cleanup is hassle-free too, thanks to the dishwasher-safe inner pot and lid. On the downside, the smaller capacity may not suit larger families or those who like to batch cook. Also, while the touch controls are easy, some users might find the setup and assembly a bit fiddly at first.

This Instant Pot is a strong choice if you want a compact, multi-functional cooker with reliable safety features and easy maintenance, especially for small kitchens or limited cooking needs.

The Instant Pot Duo Crisp combines the functionalities of an air fryer and an electric pressure cooker, making it a versatile choice for home cooks. Its 11-in-1 capacity allows you to steam, sauté, slow cook, and even make yogurt, catering well to those who enjoy experimenting with a variety of cooking methods. The 6-quart size is ideal for families and meal prepping, comfortably serving up to 6 people.

One of the standout features is the EvenCrisp technology, which allows for air frying with significantly less oil, making meals healthier without sacrificing taste. The quick one-touch cooking options make it easy for anyone, even those who may not be experienced in the kitchen, to prepare delicious dishes with minimal hassle. Additionally, the included app with over 1900 recipes is a fantastic resource for exploring new meal ideas and maximizing the appliance's capabilities.

On the downside, some users might find the 19.6-pound weight a bit cumbersome for frequent handling or storage, especially in smaller kitchens. While the cleaning process is generally easy, the two different lids could require extra effort to keep everything organized. Moreover, a few have reported initial learning curves with the user interface, which can be a bit complex for those who prefer simpler appliances. In terms of safety, it comes equipped with over 10 features, which is reassuring for those concerned about pressure cooking. The Instant Pot Duo Crisp is an excellent choice for families and cooking enthusiasts looking for versatility and efficiency in the kitchen.