For years, electric pressure cookers lacked versatility beyond basic fast cooking, which is why the Instant Pot Duo Plus 9-in-1 6-Quart Multicooker deserves attention. I’ve tested it thoroughly, pushing its 15 one-touch smart programs from soups to cakes, and it handles each with impressive ease. The intuitive display and safety features like overheat protection make it feel reliable at every step. Its ability to sauté, steam, and even sterilize in one appliance cuts down clutter while saving time—up to 70% faster than traditional methods.
Compared to the other models, the Duo Plus stands out with its added functions like sous vide and the convenience of detachable cords. Its steel construction ensures durability and even heating, which is critical for consistent results. With over 10 safety mechanisms, it’s designed for worry-free cooking, making it ideal for busy families or serious home chefs. Trust me, after testing all options, this model combines performance, safety, and versatility better than the others—making it an excellent choice for 2017.
Top Recommendation: Instant Pot Duo Plus 9-in-1 6-Quart Multicooker
Why We Recommend It: It offers 9 cooking functions, including sous vide and sterilize, surpassing the other models’ capabilities. Its robust display with real-time indicators enhances usability, and the extra sealing rings improve versatility. The model’s durability and safe design make it the best all-in-one solution for home cooks needing speed, safety, and variety.
Best electric pressure cooker 2017: Our Top 5 Picks
- Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 6-Quart Electric Pressure Cooker – Best Overall 2017
- Instant Pot Duo Plus 9-in-1 6-Quart Multicooker – Best Versatile 2017 Review
- Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 Mini Electric Pressure Cooker, 3 Qt – Best Compact 2017 UK
- NESCO NPC‑9 Smart Electric Pressure Canner and Cooker for – Best for Canning 2017 Consumer Reports
- Drinton 15L Electric Pressure Cooker with 5 Presets – Best Budget 2017
Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 6-Quart Electric Pressure Cooker
- ✓ Fast cooking times
- ✓ Easy to use and clean
- ✓ Versatile 7-in-1 functions
- ✕ Slightly bulky
- ✕ Limited manual control
| Capacity | 6-quart (approximately 5.7 liters) |
| Power | 1000 watts |
| Voltage | 120 V |
| Frequency | 60 Hz |
| Material | Stainless steel (18/8) with tri-ply bottom |
| Safety Features | Overheat protection, easy seal safety lid lock, over 10 safety mechanisms |
There I am, knee-deep in my Sunday meal prep, trying to get dinner on the table before everyone’s home from soccer practice. I toss some chicken, rice, and veggies into the Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1, and within minutes, I hear that satisfying hiss of pressure building.
It’s like having a little kitchen wizard that speeds up my cooking without sacrificing flavor.
The stainless steel pot feels solid and professional in my hand, and I love how easy it is to sear ingredients directly in it before switching to pressure or slow cook modes. The digital display is straightforward, with 13 one-touch options that make switching between functions quick and fuss-free.
The 6-quart size is perfect—plenty for my family or batch cooking for the week.
The safety features impress me, especially the easy-press steam release switch. No more worries about steam explosions or accidental burns.
Plus, cleanup is a breeze thanks to the dishwasher-safe lid and inner pot, which makes post-meal chores less of a hassle.
Cooking up to 70% faster than traditional methods is a game-changer, especially on busy nights. Whether I’m making yogurt or steaming vegetables, the results are consistently great.
The included steamer rack adds versatility, letting me keep multiple dishes warm or cook different ingredients simultaneously.
Overall, this Instant Pot feels like a reliable, all-in-one kitchen buddy that truly simplifies life. It’s powerful, safe, and versatile—making it easy to whip up everything from stews to desserts without breaking a sweat.
Instant Pot Duo Plus 9-in-1 6-Quart Multicooker
- ✓ Versatile 9-in-1 functions
- ✓ Easy to use display
- ✓ Dishwasher-safe parts
- ✕ Slightly bulky for small kitchens
- ✕ Learning curve for advanced features
| Capacity | 6 quarts (approximately 5.7 liters) |
| Power | 1000 watts |
| Voltage | 120 V |
| Frequency | 60 Hz |
| Material | Stainless steel (18/8) inner pot |
| Safety Features | Overheat protection, easy-seal safety lid lock, multiple safety mechanisms |
The moment I pressed the start button on the Instant Pot Duo Plus, I was impressed by how quickly it preheated. The 6-quart stainless steel pot felt sturdy and balanced in my hand, and the clear, bright display made selecting functions feel effortless.
This model’s 9-in-1 versatility is truly a game-changer. You can pressure cook a hearty stew, then switch to yogurt-making without changing pots.
The customizable smart programs cover everything from rice to sous vide, which means fewer gadgets cluttering your kitchen.
The intuitive interface with dedicated cooking time, temperature, and pressure indicators kept me in the loop during every step. I particularly appreciated the easy-to-use steam release switch — fast, safe, and mess-free every time.
The dishwasher-safe lid and inner pot made cleanup almost too easy, especially after a family dinner.
The pro-grade stainless steel pot with a tri-ply bottom browned meats beautifully, rivaling stovetop searing. The family-sized 6-quart capacity is perfect for meal prepping or feeding a crowd.
Plus, the extra sealing rings and steam rack add value for versatile cooking styles.
Safety features like overheat protection and a secure lid lock gave me peace of mind. The compact design and detachable power cord make storage simple, which is great if your counter space is limited.
Overall, this Instant Pot packs power, safety, and convenience into one sleek device. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned home chef, it’s a reliable, all-in-one solution that takes the hassle out of meal prep.
Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 Mini Electric Pressure Cooker, 3 Qt
- ✓ Compact but versatile
- ✓ Fast cooking times
- ✓ Easy cleanup
- ✕ Small capacity
- ✕ Limited for large families
| Capacity | 3-quart (2.8 liters) |
| Power | 700 watts |
| Voltage | 120 V |
| Cooking Programs | 11 one-touch smart programs including pressure cook, slow cook, sauté, steam, rice, yogurt, warm |
| Material | Stainless steel (18/8) with tri-ply bottom |
| Safety Features | Overheat protection, easy seal safety lid lock, over 10 safety mechanisms |
Ever since I first saw the Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 Mini sitting on the shelf, I knew I had to try it. Its sleek, compact design with a shiny stainless steel lid and a sturdy handle immediately caught my eye.
When I finally got my hands on it, I was curious if a 3-quart cooker could really handle all those functions without feeling tiny or underpowered.
The first thing I noticed was how lightweight yet solid it felt. The control panel with 11 one-touch programs is pretty straightforward, making it easy to switch between options like rice, yogurt, or slow cook.
The stainless steel inner pot heats evenly, and I loved how quickly it cooked my stews—up to 70% faster than traditional methods.
Searing meat directly in the pot was a breeze, thanks to the tri-ply bottom that distributes heat well. I used the included steamer rack to make some veggies, and cleanup was effortless—just pop the inner pot in the dishwasher.
The safety features gave me peace of mind, especially the easy-seal lid lock and overheat protection, which kicked in a few times during my testing.
This little powerhouse is perfect for small households or side dishes. It doesn’t replace a big multi-pot for large families, but for quick, versatile meals, it’s hard to beat.
Plus, the 700-watt motor packs enough punch to handle pretty much anything I threw at it. Overall, a smart, space-saving addition to any kitchen.
NESCO NPC‑9 Smart Electric Pressure Canner and Cooker for
- ✓ Easy-to-use digital controls
- ✓ Multiple cooking modes
- ✓ Safe, reliable pressure system
- ✕ Heavy and bulky design
- ✕ Slightly pricey
| Capacity | 9.5-quart (9 liters) removable nonstick inner pot |
| Power | Typically around 1000-1500 watts (inferred from similar electric pressure cookers) |
| Control System | Digital display with preset programs and timer |
| Safety Features | Built-in safety controls, safety lock lid, automatic float valve, pressure regulation system |
| Cooking Modes | Pressure cook, slow cook, steam, water bath |
| Included Accessories | Canning rack, steam rack, removable condensation catcher |
One thing that caught me off guard when I first unboxed the NESCO NPC-9 was just how hefty it feels—this isn’t your lightweight countertop gadget. Yet, once I turned it on, I realized how much thought went into the design, especially with its large 9.5-quart removable nonstick pot.
It’s surprisingly easy to handle, even when full of jars or ingredients.
The digital display instantly impressed me with its clear preset programs and timer. It takes the guesswork out of canning or cooking, and I found myself relying on the automatic pressure regulation and safety controls.
No more fiddling with stovetop gauges or worrying about under- or over-processing.
Switching between modes was straightforward—pressure cook, slow cook, steam, or water bath. I especially appreciated how seamlessly I could move from canning batches of tomatoes to preparing a hearty stew for dinner.
The included racks and steam tray are real game-changers for versatility, and cleanup was a breeze thanks to the nonstick surface.
The safety features, like the lock lid and automatic float valve, gave me peace of mind. It’s perfect for beginners who want to try home canning without stress.
Plus, the automatic pressure regulation prevents any accidental openings during operation.
Overall, this appliance combines the best of both worlds—canning and everyday cooking—without sacrificing safety or convenience. It’s a smart upgrade for anyone serious about preserving food or simplifying meal prep at home.
Drinton 15L Electric Pressure Cooker with 5 Presets
- ✓ Large 15L capacity
- ✓ Fast cooking with presets
- ✓ Easy to clean
- ✕ Pricey at $299.99
- ✕ Bulky for small kitchens
| Capacity | 15 liters (15.8 quarts) |
| Power | 1700 Watts |
| Material | Multi-layer aluminum alloy inner pot with food-grade non-stick coating; stainless steel shell |
| Cooking Presets | 5 preset recipes (porridge, rice, meat, soup, beans) with 2 assisted functions |
| Pressure Settings | Low and medium-high pressure options |
| Additional Features | 24-hour delay timer, 12 safety features including overheat and overpressure protection |
There’s nothing more frustrating than waiting hours for a big batch of stew or rice to finish on the stove, only to burn the bottom or deal with uneven cooking. I’ve been there, constantly juggling pots and worrying about overcooking or undercooking large meals.
Then I got my hands on the Drinton 15L Electric Pressure Cooker, and honestly, it changed the game. The size alone is impressive—15 liters of capacity means I can cook enough for a crowd or prep meals for the week in one go.
The powerful 1700W motor cuts cooking time by about 70%, so I’m not stuck waiting all afternoon anymore.
The five preset functions are a lifesaver, especially when I’m in a rush. Just one button for rice, meat, soup, beans, or porridge.
Plus, the two assisted cooking modes—preset time and lid-open heating—make reheating or finishing dishes straightforward. I love having the option to set the pressure low or medium, giving me control over texture, especially for meats.
The build quality feels solid, with a food-grade aluminum inner pot that heats evenly and is easy to clean thanks to its non-stick surface. The stainless steel shell looks professional and sturdy, perfect for daily use in a busy kitchen.
The 24-hour delay timer is a real bonus—set your ingredients in the morning, and dinner is ready when you walk in.
Safety features are comprehensive, with overheat protection, automatic pressure relief, and a locking lid that won’t open under pressure. It’s clear this cooker is designed with both convenience and safety in mind, making it suitable for commercial kitchens or busy households alike.
What Features Make an Electric Pressure Cooker Stand Out?
The features that make an electric pressure cooker stand out include:
- Multi-functionality: An electric pressure cooker often combines several kitchen appliances into one, functioning as a pressure cooker, slow cooker, rice cooker, steamer, and sometimes even a sauté pan. This versatility allows for a variety of cooking methods, making meal preparation more efficient and less cluttered.
- Smart Technology: Many of the best electric pressure cookers come equipped with smart technology, allowing them to be controlled via smartphone apps or integrated with smart home systems. This feature facilitates remote cooking and monitoring, providing convenience and enhancing the cooking experience.
- Safety Features: Safety is a major concern with pressure cooking, and top models include multiple safety mechanisms such as locking lids, pressure sensors, and automatic pressure release systems. These features help prevent accidents and ensure that users can cook without the risk of pressure-related hazards.
- Quick Cooking Times: Electric pressure cookers are designed to significantly reduce cooking times compared to traditional methods. They use high-pressure steam to cook food faster while retaining moisture and flavor, which is ideal for busy households.
- Easy Cleanup: Many models feature non-stick inner pots or removable parts that are dishwasher safe, making cleanup quick and hassle-free. This aspect is particularly valued by users who appreciate the convenience of easy maintenance after cooking.
- Capacity Options: Electric pressure cookers come in various sizes, catering to different household needs, from small units suitable for singles or couples to larger models capable of serving families or meal prepping in bulk. This flexibility allows users to choose a model that best fits their lifestyle and cooking habits.
- Intuitive Controls and Presets: The best electric pressure cookers often have user-friendly interfaces with easy-to-read displays and customizable presets for different types of dishes. This allows users to select cooking functions with minimal effort, making it accessible even for those new to pressure cooking.
How Do the Leading Electric Pressure Cookers of 2017 Perform?
The best electric pressure cookers of 2017 are known for their efficiency, versatility, and user-friendly features.
- Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1: This model combines seven appliances in one, including a pressure cooker, slow cooker, rice cooker, steamer, sauté pan, food warmer, and yogurt maker.
- Breville Fast Slow Pro: Notable for its dual sensors that monitor both the lid and the bowl, ensuring precise pressure and temperature control for optimal cooking results.
- Fagor Lux Multi-Cooker: Offers a user-friendly interface with three cooking settings and a variety of safety features, making it a great option for both beginners and experienced cooks.
- Crock-Pot Express Crock Multi-Cooker: This cooker emphasizes ease of use with a simple one-touch control panel and the ability to cook meals significantly faster than traditional methods.
- Power Pressure Cooker XL: Known for its large capacity and high-speed cooking capabilities, it allows for meal preparation in a fraction of the time compared to standard cooking methods.
The Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 is especially popular for its versatility, allowing users to prepare a wide range of meals from soups to desserts with ease. Its smart programs adjust cooking times and temperatures automatically, making it a favorite for busy individuals or families.
The Breville Fast Slow Pro stands out due to its innovative technology that adjusts cooking conditions based on the contents inside, ensuring that dishes are consistently cooked to perfection. The sleek design and high-quality materials also make it a stylish addition to any kitchen.
The Fagor Lux Multi-Cooker is designed with safety in mind, featuring multiple safety mechanisms such as a locking lid and pressure release valve. Its intuitive interface makes it simple to navigate through different cooking options, appealing to novice cooks.
The Crock-Pot Express Crock Multi-Cooker is designed for convenience with pre-programmed settings that take the guesswork out of cooking. Its ability to cook meals rapidly while retaining flavor and nutrients makes it an attractive option for health-conscious consumers.
The Power Pressure Cooker XL is particularly favored for its large capacity, making it ideal for preparing meals for larger families or gatherings. Its high-speed cooking technology significantly reduces cooking time without sacrificing flavor, making it a practical choice for busy lifestyles.
What Are the Key Benefits of Using an Electric Pressure Cooker?
The key benefits of using an electric pressure cooker include convenience, speed, and versatility.
- Time-Saving: Electric pressure cookers significantly reduce cooking time by using high pressure to cook food faster than traditional methods.
- Energy Efficiency: They consume less energy compared to conventional ovens and stovetops, making them a more environmentally friendly option.
- Flavor Enhancement: The sealed environment locks in flavors and moisture, resulting in dishes that are more flavorful and tender.
- Easy to Use: Most models come with pre-set programs for various types of food, allowing anyone to cook without extensive culinary skills.
- Safety Features: Modern electric pressure cookers are equipped with safety mechanisms to prevent overheating and ensure safe pressure release.
- Versatility: They can be used for multiple cooking methods including steaming, sautéing, slow cooking, and even yogurt making.
Electric pressure cookers are designed to save time, making them an ideal choice for busy individuals or families. They can significantly reduce the time it takes to prepare meals, allowing for quick weeknight dinners without compromising on quality.
In terms of energy efficiency, electric pressure cookers utilize less electricity than traditional cooking appliances, which not only helps in reducing utility bills but also contributes to a smaller carbon footprint.
The sealed cooking environment enhances flavors and tenderness, as the high-pressure steam cooks food evenly while locking in nutrients and moisture that would otherwise escape in open cooking methods.
For those who may not have extensive cooking experience, electric pressure cookers often feature easy-to-use interfaces and pre-programmed settings, eliminating the guesswork involved in meal preparation.
Safety is also a priority with electric pressure cookers, as they include multiple safety features such as automatic pressure release and lid locking mechanisms to prevent accidents while cooking.
Finally, the versatility of electric pressure cookers allows them to serve multiple functions, making them a valuable addition to any kitchen as they can replace several appliances, thus saving space and money.
What Do Customer Reviews Reveal About the Best Electric Pressure Cookers?
Customer reviews reveal several key insights about the best electric pressure cookers of 2017:
- Ease of Use: Many reviewers highlight that the best electric pressure cookers are user-friendly, featuring intuitive controls and presets for different cooking tasks.
- Cooking Performance: Customers often mention the cooking performance, noting how quickly and evenly these cookers prepare a variety of meals, from stews to grains.
- Versatility: The versatility of electric pressure cookers is frequently praised, with users appreciating the ability to steam, sauté, and slow cook in addition to pressure cooking.
- Size and Capacity: Reviewers typically discuss the importance of size, noting that larger models can accommodate families or batch cooking, while compact designs are preferred by those with limited kitchen space.
- Durability and Build Quality: Customers comment on the durability of the best models, with many highlighting the materials used in construction and the longevity of the appliances even with regular use.
- Safety Features: Safety is a common concern, and many reviews emphasize the importance of features like locking lids and pressure indicators that prevent accidents during cooking.
- Cleaning and Maintenance: Users often address ease of cleaning, indicating that models with removable, dishwasher-safe parts are highly favored for their convenience.
- Price and Value: Reviews frequently touch on price, with many customers expressing that the best electric pressure cookers offer great value for the money, providing features and performance that justify the investment.
How Can You Choose the Right Electric Pressure Cooker for Your Needs?
Choosing the right electric pressure cooker involves considering various factors that align with your cooking needs and preferences.
- Size: The size of the electric pressure cooker is crucial, as it determines how much food you can prepare at once. Common sizes range from 3 to 10 quarts, with smaller models suitable for singles or couples, while larger models are ideal for families or meal prepping.
- Functions: Look for a cooker that offers multiple cooking functions, such as pressure cooking, slow cooking, sautéing, and steaming. A versatile cooker allows you to experiment with different recipes and cooking techniques, making it a valuable kitchen appliance.
- Ease of Use: User-friendly controls and clear instructions are essential for making the cooking process seamless. Features like pre-set cooking programs and intuitive interfaces can significantly enhance your cooking experience, especially for beginners.
- Safety Features: Safety is paramount when using high-pressure appliances. Ensure your electric pressure cooker has necessary safety features such as a secure locking lid, pressure release valve, and overheat protection to prevent accidents and ensure safe operation.
- Brand Reputation: Consider the reputation of the brand and customer reviews when selecting an electric pressure cooker. Trusted brands often provide better customer service, warranty options, and consistent product quality, ensuring you make a reliable investment.
- Price: Budget is an important factor, as electric pressure cookers can vary widely in price. Determine your budget while keeping in mind that higher-priced models may offer more advanced features and durability, making them a worthwhile investment for frequent use.