Instant Pots have become one of the most popular kitchen appliances in recent years. With their ability to perform multiple cooking functions like pressure cooking, slow cooking, steaming, sautéing, and more, all in one device, it’s easy to see why busy home cooks love them. But with so many different Instant Pot models available, it can be tricky to figure out which one is right for you.
In this article, we’ll compare some of the most popular Instant Pot models across different price points to help you determine the best Instant Pot that can tackle all your cooking needs.
Key Factors to Consider
Here are some of the key factors to keep in mind when choosing an Instant Pot:
- Size – Instant Pots typically come in 3 qt, 6 qt, and 8 qt sizes. The 6 qt is the most popular for most families.
- Functions – Make sure the functions you need like pressure cooking, slow cooking, sautéing, etc. are included.
- Budget – Instant Pots range from $50 to $200+ depending on features.
- Reviews – Check reviews to ensure there are no common issues or defects.
- Safety features – Models with more safety mechanisms in place tend to be more expensive.
- Accessories – Some come with extra accessories like steam racks or egg bite molds.
Under $100 Instant Pots
Here are some top-rated budget-friendly Instant Pot models under $100:
Instant Pot Duo
- 6 qt and 8 qt sizes
- 14 one-touch cooking programs
- Pressure cook, slow cook, rice cooker, yogurt maker, steamer, sauté, and warmer
- Under $100 for 6 qt size
The Instant Pot Duo is Instant Pot’s most popular basic model with all the main cooking functions you need at an affordable price point. It’s a great option for beginners.
Instant Pot Lux
- 6 qt size
- 12 one-touch programs
- Pressure cook, slow cook, rice cooker, sauté, steam, and warmer
- Usually under $80
The Instant Pot Lux is very similar to the Duo but without the yogurt making function. However, it’s usually a bit cheaper than the Duo.
Instant Pot Duo Nova
- 3 qt, 6 qt, and 8 qt sizes
- 10 one-touch programs
- Pressure cook, slow cook, sous vide, sauté, steam, warm, and pulse
- Around $80 for 6 qt
The Duo Nova has a more updated design with a pressure release button on the lid. It also comes with a few extra functions like sous vide and pulse (for chopping or mixing).
Mid-Range Instant Pots $100-$200
These mid-range models have some more advanced features and add-ons:
Instant Pot Pro
- 6 qt, 8 qt sizes
- 28 customizable programming options
- Pressure cook, slow cook, sous vide, sauté, steam, warm, and pulse
- Typically $130-$150
The Instant Pot Pro allows you to customize programming with an LCD screen and gives you precise control over pressure and temperature settings. It’s great for intermediate and advanced users.
Instant Pot Pro Plus
- 6 qt, 8 qt sizes
- 28 customizable programs
- All functions of Pro model
- Comes with extra accessories
- Around $170
The Pro Plus has all the same core functions as the Pro but also comes with some handy accessories like a silicone steam rack, stainless steel steam rack, and a stainless steel inner pot.
Higher-End Instant Pots $200+
The most expensive Instant Pot models have the most advanced features and technology:
Instant Pot Max
- 6 qt size
- 15 psi pressure compared to 12 psi on most models
- Nutriboost technology for extracting more nutrients
- Completely stainless steel inner pot
- Large touchscreen with customizable programs
- Typically over $200
The Max is Instant Pot’s most advanced model with extra safety features and the ability to hit higher pressures. It’s ideal for serious home cooks looking for maximum functionality.
Instant Pot Smart WiFi
- 6 qt and 8 qt sizes
- Control via smartphone app
- 1000+ preprogrammed recipes
- Monitor cooking remotely
- Schedule cooking in advance
- Around $150
The Smart WiFi model connects to your home WiFi and allows you to control and monitor through an app on your smartphone, even when away from home.
Comparison Table
| Model | Sizes | Key Functions | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Duo | 6 qt, 8 qt | Pressure cook, slow cook, rice cooker, yogurt maker, steamer, sauté, warmer | $70 – $100 |
| Lux | 6 qt | Pressure cook, slow cook, rice cooker, steamer, sauté, warmer | $70 – $90 |
| Duo Nova | 3 qt, 6 qt, 8 qt | Pressure cook, slow cook, sous vide, steamer, sauté, warm, pulse | $80 – $100 |
| Pro | 6 qt, 8 qt | Pressure cook, slow cook, sous vide, steamer, sauté, warm, pulse + customizable programming | $130 – $150 |
| Pro Plus | 6 qt, 8 qt | All Pro functions + accessories | $170 |
| Max | 6 qt | 15 psi pressure, stainless steel pot, advanced programming | $200+ |
| Smart WiFi | 6 qt, 8 qt | App control, remote monitoring, scheduling | $150 |
Conclusion
So which Instant Pot is best for you? Here are some quick recommendations based on your needs and budget:
- Best entry-level model: Instant Pot Duo or Lux (under $100)
- Best mid-range all-rounder: Instant Pot Pro Plus ($150-170)
- Best for custom programming: Instant Pot Pro ($130-150)
- Best for serious cooks: Instant Pot Max ($200+)
- Best for tech lovers: Instant Pot Smart WiFi ($150)
The Duo and Lux are great affordable basic models, while the Pro and Pro Plus provide some more advanced functionality. The Max is ideal for someone looking for maximum power and performance, while the Smart WiFi adds technology connectivity.
No matter which you choose, any Instant Pot is sure to be a versatile addition to your kitchen that can replace several other appliances. Be sure to think about your budget, cooking needs, and how “high-tech” you want your model before deciding which is the best Instant Pot for you.