Can the Instant Pot Replace Seven Countertop Appliances?
On February 25, 2026 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.
