Slow cookers and crock pots are often used interchangeably, but there are some differences between the two. Both are countertop appliances used for long, slow cooking of foods like roasts, stews, and chilies. However, slow cookers and crock pots operate a bit differently and have some unique features.
What is a Slow Cooker?
A slow cooker is an electric countertop appliance with a heated ceramic or stoneware pot that is surrounded by a metal housing. The pot can be removed from the housing for serving and cleaning. Slow cookers cook foods slowly at low temperatures for long periods of time.
Here are some key features of slow cookers:
- Come in sizes ranging from 1-7 quarts.
- Cooking temperatures range from 170-280°F.
- Most have basic High, Low, and Warm settings.
- Removable ceramic or stoneware insert that can be brought to the table.
- Food cooks unattended for up to 12 hours.
- Enclosed heating coils in metal housing heat the pot.
- Lid seals in heat and moisture.
- Can be oval or round in shape.
Slow cookers are ideal for simmering stews, making chili, cooking beans, roasting meats, and preparing other dishes that benefit from long, slow cooking. The moist, steady heat tenderizes meats and melds flavors over time. They are a hands-off way to prepare dinner that’s ready when you are.
What is a Crock Pot?
A crock pot is a specific brand and type of slow cooker. The words “crock pot” and “slow cooker” are often used interchangeably. However, Rival owns the Crock-Pot trademark for their line of slow cookers.
Here are some features of Crock-Pot brand slow cookers:
- Come in sizes ranging from 2-7 quarts.
- 3 basic heat settings: High, Low, Warm.
- Removable stoneware crock insert.
- Exteriors come in various styles like oval, round, or rectangular.
- Lid clamps down firmly to seal in moisture.
- Cooking times from 4-10 hours on High or 6-14 hours on Low.
The original Crock-Pot slow cooker was first introduced in 1971 and helped make slow cooking popular. While other brands of slow cookers are now available, “Crock-Pot” has become synonymous with slow cooking.
Similarities Between Slow Cookers and Crock Pots
While Crock-Pot is a brand name, its slow cookers share many similarities with generic slow cookers:
- Removable stoneware or ceramic cooking pot.
- Heating element in metal housing heats pot contents.
- Low wattage for energy efficiency.
- Lid seals in heat and moisture.
- High, Low, and Warm temperature settings.
- Can cook foods unattended for hours.
- Broad range of sizes from 1-7+ quarts.
- Ideal for cooking stews, roasts, beans, chilis, and more.
Both Crock-Pot slow cookers and other slow cooker brands employ the same types of features and technology. Both allow you to simply add ingredients to the pot, set the temperature, and let it cook all day.
Differences Between Slow Cookers and Crock Pots
While Crock-Pots may be used synonymously with slow cookers, there are some differences:
- Branding – Crock-Pot is a brand name, slow cooker is a generic term.
- History – Crock-Pot was the original back in 1971, other brands came later.
- Quality – Some perceive Crock-Pot as higher quality than other brands.
- Features – Other brands offer more tech features like digital displays.
- Shapes – Crock Pots tend to be oval, others can be round.
- Lids – Crock Pots have clamp-down lids vs. loose lids.
While they operate on the same principles, Crock-Pots may be seen by some as better brand name recognition. However, other brands offer more versatility in features and settings.
Comparing Popular Slow Cooker Models
Here is a comparison of some top-rated and best-selling slow cooker models:
| Brand | Model | Size | Features | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Crock-Pot | Manual Slow Cooker | 4 qt | High, Low, Warm settings; oval stoneware insert | $25 |
| Instant Pot | Duo 7-in-1 | 6 qt | Functions as pressure cooker, slow cooker, rice cooker, etc. | $100 |
| Elite Platinum | Programmable Slow Cooker | 8 qt | Digital programmable timer, oval ceramic insert | $35 |
| Hamilton Beach | Set & Forget | 6 qt | Programmable, probes for meat temperature | $60 |
This table shows some of the options available from leading slow cooker brands. While Crock-Pot is the original, other brands like Instant Pot and Elite Platinum offer more versatility and features.
Common Features of Slow Cookers and Crock Pots
Despite some differences, most slow cookers and Crock Pots share these common features:
- Low wattage – Typically 200-300 watts for 8-10 hours of cooking.
- Removable insert – Usually stoneware or ceramic that can go from cooker to table.
- Heating element – Wrapped around metal housing to heat stoneware insert.
- Manual controls – Basic High, Low and Warm settings.
- Tight-fitting lid – Traps heat and moisture for tender, flavorful meals.
- Affordable price – Usually $25-$100 USD depending on size and features.
- Oval or round shape – Oval may fit roasts better.
Most slow cookers share the same general construction and components. The main differences come down to size, shape, and additional features.
Tips for Choosing Between a Slow Cooker and Crock Pot
If you’re trying to decide between a Crock-Pot vs. another brand of slow cooker, here are some tips:
- Consider size and shape based on family size and your cooking needs.
- Determine if you want basic manual operation or digital programming options.
- Decide whether multi-function appliances like Instant Pot suit your needs.
- Look at dishwasher and oven safe options for the insert.
- Check reviews on performance, ease of use, and durability.
- Compare prices and warranties to get the best value.
- Go for trusted, best-selling models that have stood the test of time.
While the Crock-Pot brand carries legacy and reputation, consider your budget, needs, and kitchen space when choosing between the many slow cooker options out there.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it better to use a slow cooker or a crockpot?
There is no difference between using a slow cooker vs. a crockpot. Crock-Pot is just one brand of slow cookers. Both will cook your food at low temperatures over a long period of time. Crock-Pots may be seen as higher quality, but other brands offer more features.
What are the advantages of a crockpot?
Advantages of crockpots and slow cookers in general include:
- Dishes cook unattended for hours.
- Tender, moist dishes even with inexpensive cuts of meat.
- Meals are ready when you get home.
- Energy efficient and safe to leave on all day.
- Stoneware insert transitions from cooker to table.
- Easy cleanup compared to oven or stovetop.
What are the drawbacks of slow cookers?
Some drawbacks of slow cookers include:
- Less versatile than stovetop or oven.
- Can’t properly brown or sear meats.
- Cooks at one steady temperature.
- Manual models lack ability to program cook times.
- Stoneware insert can break if dropped.
- Food may overcook on Warm setting if left too long.
Should I buy a Crock-Pot brand slow cooker?
Crock-Pot is a reputable brand and the original slow cooker, but you don’t necessarily need to buy Crock-Pot. There are many comparable slow cooker options from other brands. Consider your budget, size needs, and features like digital timers or multi-cookers. Crock-Pot offers classic, quality slow cookers, but read reviews and compare before deciding.
Conclusion
Slow cookers and Crock-Pots both allow you to cook foods low and slow all day long. While “Crock-Pot” is often used synonymously with “slow cooker,” it is just one brand. Other brands offer more tech features and versatility. Consider size, shape, settings, and budget when choosing a model. Both let you simmer stews and roasts to tender perfection with ease.