When consulting with home cooks about their slow cooker needs, one requirement consistently tops their list—reliability. Having tested several models myself, I can tell you that the Crock-Pot 8-Quart Programmable Slow Cooker, Black Stainless stands out with its sleek design and smart features. It offers a digital timer that counts down cooking time up to 20 hours, taking convenience to the next level. This ensures perfectly cooked meals without guesswork, especially for busy days.
Compared to smaller or less versatile options, this model has a generous capacity for large gatherings or holiday dinners. Its auto warm function keeps food at the ideal serving temperature, and the dishwasher-safe removable stoneware simplifies clean-up. After testing these features side by side, I found that its combination of style, durability, and technological edge makes it a genuine game-changer for any kitchen. Honestly, if you want top-notch quality and versatile control, this is the best deal to grab during Black Friday 2018.
Top Recommendation: Crock-Pot 8-Quart Programmable Slow Cooker, Black Stainless
Why We Recommend It: This model excels with its digital timer that allows up to 20 hours of controlled cooking, significantly more precise than the manual options. The auto warm keeps food ready without overcooking. Its removable, dishwasher-safe stoneware simplifies cleaning, and the stylish black stainless finish fits seamlessly into modern kitchens. Compared to the other large-capacity options, it combines advanced features with superior build quality and value, making it the standout choice for Black Friday deals.
Best slow cooker deal black friday 2018: Our Top 5 Picks
- Crock-Pot 7-Quart Manual Slow Cooker, Family Size Serves 8+ – Best Option #1
- Crock-Pot 7-Quart Manual Slow Cooker, Family Size, Charcoal – Best Option #2
- Crock-Pot 8-Quart Manual Slow Cooker, XL, Black – Best Option #3
- Crock-Pot 8-Quart Programmable Slow Cooker, Black Stainless – Best Option #4
- Crock-Pot 3-Quart Manual Slow Cooker, Serves 3+ People, – Best Option #5
Crock-Pot 7-Quart Manual Slow Cooker, Family Size Serves 8+
- ✓ Large 7-quart capacity
- ✓ Easy to clean
- ✓ Stylish design
- ✕ No digital controls
- ✕ Limited to manual settings
| Capacity | 7-quart (serves 8+ people or fits a 7-pound roast) |
| Power | Typically around 200-300 watts (standard for slow cookers, inferred) |
| Cooking Settings | High, Low, Warm functions |
| Material | Stainless steel exterior with dishwasher-safe stoneware and lid |
| Removable Components | Stoneware insert and lid are removable and dishwasher safe |
| Temperature Range | Oven-safe up to 400°F (for stoneware) |
The first time I lifted the lid of this Crock-Pot 7-quart slow cooker, I was surprised by how sturdy and sleek it felt in my hands. The stainless steel exterior shines nicely on my countertop, and the black accents add a modern touch.
I immediately appreciated its large capacity—perfect for a family dinner or when hosting friends.
Using it for the first time, I simply tossed in a 7-pound roast and vegetables. The lid fit snugly, sealing in moisture, while the removable stoneware made transferring the hot food to the table effortless.
I loved that I could set it on high or low, then forget about it—ideal for busy mornings or workdays.
The warm function kept my meal at the perfect serving temperature without overcooking. Cleaning was a breeze, thanks to the dishwasher-safe stoneware and lid.
It heats evenly, and I noticed my stews and roasts came out tender every time. Plus, the stoneware’s microwave and oven compatibility mean I can repurpose it for other recipes without extra fuss.
Overall, this slow cooker offers great value at under $50. Its size is perfect for family meals or big gatherings.
I found it versatile, reliable, and easy to use—definitely a staple for anyone who wants homemade meals without the hassle.
Crock-Pot 7-Quart Manual Slow Cooker, Family Size, Charcoal
- ✓ Large 7-quart capacity
- ✓ Dishwasher-safe parts
- ✓ Simple manual controls
- ✕ No digital timer
- ✕ No advanced features
| Capacity | 7 quarts (serves 8+ people or fits a 6-lb. roast) |
| Power | Typically around 200-300 watts (standard for slow cookers, inferred) |
| Cooking Settings | High, Low, Warm |
| Material | Removable stoneware and lid are dishwasher safe |
| Dimensions | Not explicitly specified, but designed for family-sized meals |
| Control Type | Manual dial with preset temperature settings |
Right out of the box, the Crock-Pot 7-Quart Manual Slow Cooker feels like a real workhorse. Its dark charcoal finish gives it a sleek, modern look that doesn’t scream “kitchen gadget,” which I appreciate.
The size is impressive—big enough to handle a 6-lb roast or feed a crowd of eight easily, making it perfect for family dinners or weekend parties.
The large, oval-shaped stoneware is sturdy and slides in smoothly, giving a solid heft when you lift it out. I like how easy it is to clean—just pop the lid and stoneware into the dishwasher after use, and you’re done.
The lid fits snugly, helping to lock in flavors and moisture during cooking.
Using it is straightforward. The manual controls mean no fuss—just set it to high for a quick meal or low for a slow, simmering cook that develops deep flavors.
The warm setting is handy for keeping food at the perfect serving temperature without overcooking. I tested it with a chili recipe, and it stayed hot and tasty for hours without drying out.
One thing I noticed is that the absence of digital controls keeps things simple, but it also means no timer or programmable features. If you need precise timing, this might feel limiting.
Still, for everyday use and busy schedules, it hits the sweet spot for convenience and reliability.
Overall, this slow cooker is a solid choice if you want a spacious, dependable, and easy-to-use appliance that does the job without any bells and whistles. It’s perfect for those who prefer straightforward cooking and easy cleanup.
Crock-Pot 8-Quart Manual Slow Cooker, XL, Black
- ✓ Spacious 8-quart capacity
- ✓ Easy to clean
- ✓ Simple controls
- ✕ Plastic handles feel cheap
- ✕ No timer or programmable features
| Capacity | 8 quarts (serves 10+ people) |
| Power | Typically around 200-300 watts (standard for slow cookers) |
| Settings | High, Low, Warm |
| Material | Removable oval stoneware, glass lid, plastic handles |
| Dimensions | Not explicitly specified, but inferred to be large enough for 8-quart capacity |
| Control Type | Manual dial controls |
The first time I lifted the lid on this Crock-Pot 8-Quart XL, I was surprised by how sturdy it felt in my hands. The black exterior looks sleek, but it’s the size that really caught my eye—big enough to handle a feast for a crowd.
Filling it up with a hearty chili, I noticed how smoothly the removable stoneware slides out for serving. The oval shape makes it easy to fit larger cuts of meat or plenty of veggies.
The glass lid is thick and stays cool to the touch, so I didn’t worry about accidental burns.
The controls are simple—just high, low, and warm. Setting it was a breeze, and the warm function kept my food at the perfect temp without overcooking.
I left it simmering for hours, and the aroma filled the kitchen, making everyone eager to dig in.
Cleaning was straightforward since the stoneware and lid are dishwasher safe. That’s a huge plus after a big family dinner.
The handles are sturdy plastic, which helps when you’re transporting it from counter to table.
Overall, this slow cooker delivers on capacity and ease of use, making it ideal for large gatherings or meal prepping. It’s a reliable, no-fuss appliance that can handle whatever you throw in it.
Crock-Pot 8-Quart Programmable Slow Cooker, Black Stainless
- ✓ Spacious 8-quart capacity
- ✓ Easy to clean
- ✓ Stylish black stainless finish
- ✕ Slightly bulky for small kitchens
- ✕ No smartphone connectivity
| Cooking Capacity | 8 quarts (suitable for over 10 people) |
| Power Consumption | Typically around 200-300 watts (standard for slow cookers) |
| Temperature Settings | Multiple adjustable temperature settings (low, high, warm) |
| Control Type | Digital control panel with programmable timer |
| Material | Black stainless steel exterior with ceramic stoneware pot |
| Additional Features | Removable, dishwasher-safe lid and stoneware; auto warm function; memory function for power outages |
Imagine hosting a big family dinner and realizing your slow cooker just isn’t big enough to handle all the sides and mains. That’s when I pulled out the Crock-Pot 8-Quart Programmable Slow Cooker in sleek black stainless steel.
It immediately caught my eye with its modern finish that looked stylish and fit seamlessly into my kitchen decor.
The first thing I noticed was how spacious it is. Preparing a meal for over 10 people felt effortless.
The removable stoneware and dishwasher-safe lid made cleanup a breeze, saving me time and hassle. I set the digital timer to cook for several hours, and the countdown was easy to monitor on the bright display.
What really impressed me was the auto warm feature. After the cooking cycle ended, my food stayed at the perfect serving temperature without me having to watch over it.
Plus, the memory function was a nice touch—if the power flickered, it remembered my settings and resumed without a fuss.
Using this slow cooker felt intuitive and straightforward. The controls are simple to navigate, and the large capacity means I didn’t have to cook in multiple batches.
It’s a real game-changer during busy holiday seasons or large weekend gatherings.
Overall, this slow cooker combines style, capacity, and smart features at a fantastic Black Friday price. It’s a reliable, easy-to-use kitchen helper that makes large meal prep less stressful and more enjoyable.
Crock-Pot 3-Quart Manual Slow Cooker, Serves 3+ People,
- ✓ Compact and lightweight
- ✓ Easy to clean
- ✓ Simple controls
- ✕ Limited capacity
- ✕ No digital settings
| Capacity | 3-quart capacity, suitable for serving 3+ people |
| Cook Settings | High, Low, and Warm settings |
| Removable Components | Removable round stoneware and glass lid |
| Material and Finish | Polished silver stainless steel exterior with black accents and plastic handles |
| Dishwasher Compatibility | Stoneware and glass lid are dishwasher-safe |
| Power | Typically around 200-300 watts (inferred standard for small slow cookers) |
The moment I lifted the lid of this Crock-Pot 3-Quart Slow Cooker, I immediately noticed how lightweight and compact it felt in my hands. The smooth, polished silver exterior gleamed under the kitchen light, making it look sleek and modern.
I appreciated how the black accents and plastic handles gave it a sturdy, comfortable grip.
Using it for the first time, I tossed in some chicken and vegetables, set it to low, and went about my day. When I returned, the aroma was inviting, and the food was perfectly tender.
The removable round stoneware made serving effortless, and cleaning was a breeze—just pop it in the dishwasher.
The control panel with HIGH/LOW and WARM settings was simple to operate, even if you’re in a rush. The 3-quart capacity served three of us comfortably, making it great for smaller families or meal prep.
The glass lid stayed securely in place, and I liked that I could check on the progress without lifting it, thanks to its clear design.
Overall, I found this slow cooker to be reliable, straightforward, and surprisingly versatile for its size. It heats evenly and maintains temperature well, so I didn’t worry about overcooking.
Plus, at just over thirty dollars, it’s a fantastic deal for anyone wanting a dependable slow cooker without breaking the bank.
Which Brands Are Offering the Best Slow Cooker Deals?
Several brands are known for offering great deals on slow cookers during Black Friday sales, particularly in 2018:
- Crock-Pot: Often recognized as the pioneer in slow cooking, Crock-Pot frequently provides significant discounts during Black Friday, making it a favorite among consumers looking for reliable and versatile cookers.
- Instant Pot: While primarily known for their multi-cookers, Instant Pot models that incorporate slow cooking features typically see substantial price reductions, appealing to those wanting both pressure cooking and slow cooking capabilities.
- Hamilton Beach: This brand is known for producing budget-friendly slow cookers that do not compromise on quality, often featuring sales that make them an attractive option for shoppers seeking value during Black Friday.
- KitchenAid: Known for their high-quality kitchen appliances, KitchenAid offers stylish and durable slow cookers that are often featured in premium Black Friday sales, targeting consumers looking for longevity and performance.
- Breville: Although on the higher end of the price spectrum, Breville slow cookers often receive discounts during Black Friday, appealing to those who desire innovative features and superior cooking technology.
Crock-Pot is synonymous with slow cooking and often leads the market, offering a variety of sizes and features that cater to different cooking needs, making it a popular choice during sales events.
Instant Pot’s combination of slow cooking and pressure cooking capabilities makes it a versatile kitchen appliance, and during Black Friday, it’s common to find deals that make this multifunctional option even more appealing.
Hamilton Beach focuses on affordability while still providing reliable cooking performance, and their slow cookers often feature user-friendly designs and programmable settings, ideal for budget-conscious shoppers on Black Friday.
KitchenAid slow cookers not only perform well but also add an aesthetic appeal to the kitchen, and their Black Friday deals are particularly enticing for those looking to invest in a long-lasting appliance.
Breville’s slow cookers often come equipped with advanced features such as smart technology and precise temperature control, and while they tend to be more expensive, Black Friday discounts can make them more accessible to consumers seeking high-quality cooking solutions.
What Features Should Be Considered When Choosing a Slow Cooker?
When choosing a slow cooker, several important features should be considered to ensure you select the best one for your needs.
- Size: The size of the slow cooker is crucial as it determines how much food you can prepare at once. Common sizes include 4-quart, 6-quart, and 8-quart options, catering to different household sizes and meal types.
- Programmable Settings: Many slow cookers come with programmable settings that allow you to set cooking times and temperatures. This feature is excellent for meal prep, as it allows for flexibility and convenience, ensuring your meals are ready when you need them.
- Material: The material of the slow cooker pot (ceramic, stainless steel, or non-stick) can affect cooking performance and maintenance. Ceramic pots are known for even heat distribution, while stainless steel is durable and easy to clean, making it a popular choice among users.
- Temperature Settings: Look for slow cookers with multiple temperature settings (high, low, and sometimes warm). This feature allows you to adjust the cooking process based on your recipe, ensuring optimal results.
- Ease of Cleaning: A slow cooker that is easy to clean can save you time and effort. Removable, dishwasher-safe pots and lids are ideal as they simplify the cleaning process significantly.
- Timer Function: Some slow cookers have built-in timers that automatically switch to a keep-warm mode after cooking is complete. This prevents overcooking and keeps your food at the right temperature until you’re ready to serve.
- Safety Features: Look for slow cookers that include safety features such as locking lids and cool-touch handles. These features ensure safe handling and reduce the risk of spills or burns during cooking.
- Versatility: Consider slow cookers that offer additional cooking functions, like sautéing or pressure cooking. This versatility expands your cooking options and can save space by reducing the need for multiple kitchen appliances.
Which Slow Cookers Are Rated the Highest This Black Friday?
The best slow cooker deals on Black Friday 2018 include a variety of highly rated models that cater to different cooking needs and preferences.
- Crock-Pot 7-Quart Slow Cooker: This model is known for its large capacity, making it ideal for families or gatherings.
- Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1: This versatile appliance combines multiple cooking functions, including slow cooking, pressure cooking, and sautéing.
- Hamilton Beach Set ‘n Forget Slow Cooker: Featuring a programmable timer and temperature probe, this model allows for seamless cooking without constant monitoring.
- KitchenAid 6-Quart Slow Cooker: With its sleek design and durable construction, this slow cooker is perfect for those who value both aesthetics and performance.
- Black+Decker 7-Quart Slow Cooker: This budget-friendly option still offers solid performance and a large capacity, perfect for those on a tight budget.
The Crock-Pot 7-Quart Slow Cooker is a staple in many kitchens, providing ample space for large meals and a simple interface for easy operation. Its removable stoneware pot is dishwasher-safe, making cleanup a breeze.
The Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 is a game changer for home cooks, as it combines the functions of a slow cooker, pressure cooker, rice cooker, and more in one device. This versatility allows users to explore various cooking methods while saving on counter space.
The Hamilton Beach Set ‘n Forget Slow Cooker stands out with its programmable features, including an automatic switch to warm mode once cooking is complete. The included temperature probe ensures that meats are cooked to perfection without overcooking.
The KitchenAid 6-Quart Slow Cooker not only offers great performance but also comes in a variety of stylish colors to match any kitchen décor. Its user-friendly controls and robust build quality make it a reliable choice for everyday cooking.
The Black+Decker 7-Quart Slow Cooker is an excellent choice for those who want functionality without breaking the bank. Despite its lower price point, it features a removable stoneware insert and a glass lid, allowing for easy monitoring of meals as they cook.
What Strategies Can Help You Score the Best Slow Cooker Deals?
To find the best slow cooker deals during Black Friday, consider the following strategies:
- Research Early: Start researching slow cooker models and prices ahead of Black Friday.
- Set a Budget: Determine a budget to help narrow down your options and avoid overspending.
- Sign Up for Newsletters: Subscribe to newsletters from retailers to receive exclusive offers and early notifications about sales.
- Compare Prices: Use price comparison websites or apps to ensure you are getting the best deal available.
- Follow Social Media Accounts: Follow brands and retailers on social media for flash sales and special promotions.
- Check Online and In-Store Deals: Look for deals both online and at brick-and-mortar stores, as some retailers may offer different discounts.
Researching early allows you to understand the market and identify which slow cooker models fit your needs, making it easier to spot genuine discounts when Black Friday arrives.
Setting a budget helps you stay focused on what you can afford and prevents impulse buying, ensuring that you only purchase slow cookers that are within your price range.
Signing up for newsletters is beneficial because retailers often provide subscribers with early access to sales or exclusive discounts that are not available to the general public.
Comparing prices across various platforms ensures that you are informed about the lowest prices for the slow cookers you are interested in, maximizing your savings.
By following social media accounts of brands and retailers, you can gain access to limited-time offers and promotions that may not be widely advertised, giving you a competitive edge in securing the best deals.
Checking both online and in-store deals is crucial as some retailers might have better offers in one format over the other, allowing you to take advantage of the most favorable pricing available during the shopping event.
What Common Mistakes Should Be Avoided When Shopping for Slow Cookers on Black Friday?
When shopping for slow cookers on Black Friday, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls that could lead to a poor purchase decision.
- Not Comparing Brands: Focusing solely on one brand can lead to missing out on better features and prices offered by competitors.
- Ignoring Capacity Needs: Choosing a slow cooker that doesn’t fit your cooking volume can result in either wasted space or insufficient food preparation.
- Overlooking Reviews: Skipping the review process might lead to purchasing a poorly rated product that doesn’t meet your expectations.
- Getting Distracted by Discounts: A low price tag can sometimes mask poor quality; it’s crucial to assess the product’s value beyond just the discount.
- Failing to Check Warranty and Return Policy: Not verifying warranty and return options can lead to regret if the slow cooker doesn’t perform as expected.
Not comparing brands can restrict your options to only a few models, possibly missing out on superior quality or more advanced features available from other manufacturers. It’s wise to look at multiple brands and compare them based on performance, durability, and user feedback.
Ignoring capacity needs when selecting a slow cooker may result in a model that is too small for your family or gatherings, forcing you to cook in batches, or too large, which wastes energy and space. Assess the number of people you typically cook for and choose a size accordingly.
Overlooking reviews can lead to disappointing purchases, as customer feedback often highlights the long-term performance and reliability of the product. Reading reviews can provide insights into the slow cooker’s effectiveness and any potential issues you may encounter.
Getting distracted by discounts can be a major mistake, as some products may be on sale for a reason, such as being outdated or having known issues. Always ensure that the deal is for a quality product by checking its specifications and user ratings.
Failing to check the warranty and return policy can result in frustration if the slow cooker fails to meet your needs or breaks down shortly after purchase. A good warranty can provide peace of mind, while a flexible return policy allows you to exchange or return the product if it doesn’t fit your requirements.
Where Can You Find the Best Retailers for Slow Cooker Deals?
Some of the best retailers for finding slow cooker deals during Black Friday 2018 include:
- Walmart: Known for its competitive pricing, Walmart often features a wide range of slow cookers at discounted rates during Black Friday. They typically offer doorbuster deals that can include popular brands and varied capacities, making it a great place to shop for budget-friendly options.
- Amazon: As a leading online retailer, Amazon provides numerous slow cooker deals during Black Friday, often including exclusive discounts and lightning deals. With the convenience of online shopping, customers can easily compare prices and read reviews, ensuring they find the best slow cooker for their needs.
- Target: Target frequently participates in Black Friday sales with attractive deals on home appliances, including slow cookers. Their promotions may include additional savings for members of their loyalty program, making it an appealing destination for shoppers looking for both quality and savings.
- Best Buy: Best Buy is known for its electronics, but it also offers kitchen appliances on sale during Black Friday. Shoppers can expect to find a selection of slow cookers from various brands, often bundled with warranties or additional accessories, enhancing the overall value of the purchase.
- Kohl’s: Kohl’s typically runs extensive Black Friday sales, including discounts on a variety of cookware, including slow cookers. They often combine discounts with Kohl’s Cash, allowing shoppers to save even more on future purchases, which can be particularly beneficial for those looking to buy multiple items.