Can the Instant Pot Replace Seven Countertop Appliances?

On February 16, 2025 By newsroom Topic: Appliance Buyers Guide

The Instant Pot DUO60 7-in-1 claims to replace several single-purpose appliances. Experts tested its performance against standalone devices. Here's how it fared:


1. Pressure Cooker

  • Competitor: T-Fal CY505E Electric Pressure Cooker ($70)
  • Result: Instant Pot wins by a nose
  • Instant Pot cooked tender ribs in 54 minutes; the T-Fal took 56 minutes.
  • Both delivered juicy, flavorful results.
  • Instant Pot offers more cooking options and has a stainless steel pot without nonstick coating.

2. Slow Cooker

  • Competitor: Crock-Pot SCCPVL610-S ($55)
  • Result: It’s a tie
  • Both cooked tender, delicious pulled pork.
  • The Crock-Pot’s oval shape accommodates larger cuts of meat better.

3. Rice Cooker

  • Competitor: Aroma ARC-914SBD Rice Cooker ($35)
  • Result: Instant Pot wins
  • Brown rice cooked in 45 minutes (Instant Pot) vs. 60 minutes (Aroma).
  • Rice tasted equally good from both devices.

4. Steamer

  • Competitor: Hamilton Beach 37530Z Steamer ($40)
  • Result: Steamer wins
  • Hamilton Beach produced crisp, colorful veggies.
  • Instant Pot's pressure-steaming resulted in mushy, faded vegetables.
  • The steamer’s clear lid and multilayer options made it more versatile.

5. Yogurt Maker

  • Competitor: Euro Cuisine YM100 Yogurt Maker ($40)
  • Result: It’s a tie
  • Both made delicious plain yogurt, but the Instant Pot can produce larger batches (up to 1 gallon).
  • The Instant Pot’s process requires slightly more effort.

6. Induction Cooktop (Sauté Function)

  • Competitor: Nu-Wave PIC Flex Precision Induction Cooktop ($70)
  • Result: Induction burner wins
  • Instant Pot struggled to sear and brown food effectively, affecting flavor.
  • Nu-Wave cooked faster and better browned ingredients for more flavorful results.

7. Warming Tray

  • Competitor: Oster Triple Warming Tray ($50)
  • Result: Warming tray wins
  • Oster offers temperature control (140°F–180°F) and three separate trays for better flexibility.
  • Instant Pot can keep food warm but lacks adjustable settings.

Experts' Verdict

  • While the Instant Pot didn’t always outperform standalone devices, it delivers versatility and saves counter space.
  • For those seeking convenience and multi-functionality, the Instant Pot is a practical all-in-one solution, even if it doesn’t replace every appliance perfectly.

Summing it all up

If you value space and versatility over single-task perfection, the Instant Pot is a strong contender for streamlining your kitchen setup.


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