The Best Instant Pots
Instant Pot Lux 6-in-1
The Lux model is a 6-in-1 appliance designed to act as a pressure cooker, slow cooker, rice cooker, steamer, and warmer while also being able to sauté. As the base model, the Lux has a non-detachable cord and has only a high pressure mode unlike other models that also include a low pressure mode and will pressure cook for up to four hours. If you are not that adventurous in the kitchen and don’t need the added features of the other models, you can save some money and get all of the primary benefits out of an Instant Pot with the Lux.
Pros
- Lowest priced model
- One-touch controls
- Dishwasher safe cooking pot, lid, and steam rack
Cons
- Fewer cooking options than other models
- No lid holder
Key Features
- 6-in-1 Appliance
- 12 built-in programs
- LED Display
Specifications
- Brand: Instant Pot
- Capacity: 3, 6, and 8 quart options
- Dimensions: 13.2 x 12.2 x 12.5 inches (6 quart)
- Weight: 11.5 pounds (6 quart)
Instant Pot Ultra 10-in-1
The Ultra 10-in-1 is designed to replace the following appliances: pressure cooker, slow cooker, rice cooker, steamer, sauté pan, yogurt maker, cake maker, egg cooker, sterilizer, and warmer. This model includes all of the features of other models with the exception of WiFi compatibility, canning, and sous vide making it a great value for the money IF you don’t need one of those features. The variable temperature control is great for pros who want to experiment with their meals and portion sizes rather than relying on preset configurations. Features a sterilize option which is only found on this model and the Duo Plus which is highly useful for cleaning baby bottles. The only real difference between the Ultra and the Duo Plus is that the Ultra comes with the adjustable temperature control, otherwise the units are mostly the same.
Pros
- Sterilize setting (1 of 2 models with this feature)
- Custom temperature options (1 of 2 models with this feature)
- Both high and low pressure settings up to 6 hours
- Dishwasher safe cooking pot, lid, and steam rack
Cons
- More expensive than all but the Max model
Key Features
- 10-in-1 appliance
- 16 built-in cooking programs
- LCD Display and selection dial
Specifications
- Brand: Instant Pot
- Capacity: 3, 6, and 8 quart options
- Dimensions: 13.0 × 12.5 × 12.5 inches (6 quart)
- Weight: 11.8 pounds (6 quart)
Instant Pot Max 9-in-1
The Max 9-in-1 is a highly specialized device designed for a user looking to use it for canning and sous vide. This is the only model designed for these two functions. In addition to these two functions, the Max will act as an electric pressure cooker, slow cooker, rice cooker, steamer, sauté pan, yogurt maker, and warmer. For the cost, if you do not plan on using these two functions, it would would be wiser to go with the Ultra which is less expensive and will fulfill the needs of most kitchens shy of these two very specific tasks. The touchscreen is a nice feature as are the unlimited built in cooking programs that do set it apart from other models however.
Pros
- 3 pressure settings for up to 8 hours
- Designed with canning and sous vide in mind
- Custom temperature options (1 of 2 models with this feature)
- Dishwasher safe cooking pot, lid, and steam rack
Cons
- Most expensive
Key Features
- 9-in-1 appliance
- Unlimited preset temperatures/cooking programs
- LCD touchscreen display with dial and button controls
Specifications
- Brand: Instant Pot
- Capacity: 6 quart
- Dimensions: 13.8 × 13.8 × 13.0 inches
- Weight: 13.3 pounds
Instant Pot Buying Guide
Instant Pot has numerous models of their now beloved multi-function pressure cooker on the market and choosing between them can be a real challenge. Ultimately, the biggest differences between the models comes not from the actual cooking ability of the pot, but rather the preset cooking options that are programmed into them. The Oola team has looked through the various model lines and combed through online reviews to help showcase the differences between their top models. Here are the biggest features to consider when making your Instant Pot purchase.
Features
All models come with food-grade stainless steal cooking pot, as well as a steam rack, soup spoon, rice paddle, and measuring cup. Each of these — along with the lid — is dishwasher safe. Additionally, all models come with a delay start feature for up to 24 hours so that you can program your cooker before leaving for work for instance. The biggest difference between most of the models are the pre-set option buttons programmed in, so check out which features your model comes with to avoid manual updates for common foods.
Size
All of their models come in a traditional six quart option, while the Lux, Duo, Duo Plus, and Ultra models can also be purchased in either a three or eight quart size. A six quart should be able to accommodate a family of four relatively easily and up to a six person family depending on portion size, though some users have claimed that an eight quart is necessary for larger portions and/or families. Determine the size you need and choose a model with that capacity option.
Screen
The two lower-end models come with a basic LED display for temperature and timing readings. However, the other models feature a more robust LCD display, and at least one model with touchscreen capabilities.
