Which Instant Pot Model Is Right For You In 2024 | Comparison Chart

Finding the perfect Instant Pot model can feel like a puzzle with many choices. Did you know all Instant Pots come with six standard cooking programs? This post will compare features, prices, and more to find the best fit for your kitchen adventures.

Let’s dive in and make sense of it all!

Key Takeaways

• Instant Pots can do many things like pressure cook, slow cook, and steam. They replace six kitchen tools.
• Some models make yogurt or have a wheat program for grains. Others can bake cakes or work with an app.
• Air Fryer models add more ways to cook food. Extra features include special lids and inner pots.
• Make sure the model you pick has the features you want. Check if it fits your cooking style and needs.
• Pro Plus is smart with Wi-Fi and apps for recipes. It’s suitable for people who love new tech in the kitchen.

Common Features Across Instant Pot Models

All Instant Pot models can pressure cook, slow cook, steam veggies, and more. They make cooking rice easy. Each one acts like six different kitchen tools. This means you don’t need other gadgets to do these jobs.

Instant Pots have buttons for each program and keep food warm after cooking it. They all help save time in the kitchen by doing many things with just one pot. Plus, they’re known for making meals fast without mess or fuss.

Model-Specific Features

Discover the unique features of each Instant Pot model, from yogurt-making to cake-baking functions. Find out which model is perfect for your cooking needs in 2024.

Yogurt making

Some Instant Pot models can make yogurt with a special setting. This is great if you love homemade yogurt. You pour the milk, add the starter bacteria, and set it to make yogurt.

The machine keeps the milk at just the right temperature for hours so that it turns into yummy yogurt.

But not all Instant Pots do this. The Duo Crisp and Pro Crisp models cannot make yogurt. They are made for different kinds of cooking, like air frying. So, if you want to make your own yogurt with an Instant Pot, you must pick a model with this feature.

Wheat program

Moving from yogurt to other homemade favorites, let’s talk about the wheat program in Instant Pots. This unique setting is excellent for those who love to make whole-grain dishes like wheat berries or bulgur.

But keep in mind that not all models have this feature. You won’t find the wheat program if you look at the Duo or Ultra models. So, if cooking with whole grains is important, double-check that the model you’re considering can handle these recipes!

Cake or bake function

The cake or bake function is unavailable in the Duo, Duo Plus V3, V4, and Pro Plus models. If you’re keen on using your Instant Pot for baking or making cakes, it’s important to consider this limitation when choosing a model.

However, if baking isn’t your priority, these models offer various other cooking features that might still meet your needs. When comparing different Instant Pot models for purchase, consider the availability of the cake or bake function if it’s something you desire.

New features exclusive to the Pro Plus model

The Pro Plus model has exclusive new features that set it apart from other Instant Pot models. It offers the convenience of canning and Nutri boost functions, making it a versatile choice for home cooks.

Additionally, the Pro Plus model stands out as the smartest multi-cooker in the lineup, featuring Wi-Fi capability and app-controlled cooking through the Instant Brands Connect app, which provides access to over 800 chef-curated recipes with various filter options.

Moving on to “Air Fryer Models”, let’s delve into how they compare functionality and performance.

Air Fryer Models

1. The Instant Pot Duo Crisp + Air Fryer integrates pressure cooking and air frying functions in one model, making it a versatile option for those seeking dual capabilities.

2. Certain models of the Instant Pot emphasize specific air fryer features such as roasting, broiling, and dehydrating, expanding cooking options beyond traditional pressure cooking.

3. The Pro Plus Instant Pot is well-suited for tech-savvy individuals, offering advanced Wi-Fi capability and app-controlled cooking with guided recipes.

Lid Features

The lid features across different Instant Pot models vary, with some including an automatic lid seal, quick cool tray compatibility, and a quick cool protective cover. These features can affect the convenience and functionality of the pressure cooker, making it important to consider when choosing the right model for you.

Automatic lid seal

The automatic lid seal is an important feature in several Instant Pot models, including Duo Plus V3, V4, Evo Plus, Pro Crisp, Pro, and Pro Plus. This feature ensures a secure and airtight seal when pressure cooking or using the sauté function, preventing any steam from escaping during the cooking process.

This helps to maintain the desired pressure levels inside the pot for efficient and effective cooking.

Moving on to another critical lid feature – “Quick cool tray compatibility” available in Evo Plus, Pro Crisp, Pro, and Pro Plus models.

Quick cool tray compatibility

The specified Instant Pot models like Evo Plus, Pro Crisp, Pro, and Pro Plus are compatible with the Quick Cool Tray to improve the steam release process. This tray aids in faster steam release after cooking by allowing cold water to be added for rapid depressurization.

The Quick Cool Tray is available for purchase separately on Amazon and instanthome.com.

The Quick Cool Tray compatibility is a feature that enhances user experience by speeding up the cooling down of pressure during cooking processes, ensuring safer handling and quicker access to your meals.

Quick cool protective cover

In addition to the quick, excellent tray compatibility, specific Instant Pot models also feature a quick, cool protective cover. This cover is designed to facilitate faster steam release, enhancing the overall cooking experience.

The quick, excellent protective cover can be purchased separately and is available on popular online platforms such as Amazon and instanthome.com.

When using an Instant Pot model with this feature, the quick, cool protective cover provides added convenience by expediting the steam release process and ensuring efficient operation.

Inner Pot Features

The inner pots with easy-grab silicone handles make handling and transferring food convenient. Read on to discover the best Instant Pot model for you in 2024!

Inner pots with easy grab silicone handles

Instant Pot models like Evo Plus, Pro Crisp, and Pro Plus have inner pots featuring easy-grab silicone handles. These pots are safe for stovetop and oven use up to 400°F.

The silicone handles allow a comfortable and secure grip, making it easier to handle the pot even when hot. This feature adds convenience and safety for users while cooking various recipes in these Instant Pot models.

These inner pots provide added convenience and safety due to the silicone handles, which offer a comfortable and secure grip. Users can confidently utilize these pots on stovetops or in ovens without drawbacks, allowing for versatile cooking options across different recipes.

Steam Release Features

The steam release cover and gentle steam release make for safer and more controlled pressure release. This ensures you can quickly and safely manage pressure build-up during cooking without risking burns or accidents.

Steam release cover and gentle steam release

Certain Instant Pot models, such as Duo Plus V4, Evo Plus, Pro Crisp, Pro, and Pro Plus, come with a steam release cover and gentle steam release feature. This results in a quieter and gentler steam release compared to other models.

The Evo Plus, Pro Crisp, Pro, and Pro Plus models offer quick cool tray compatibility for quicker steam release compatibility. However, it’s important to note that the Quick Cool tray must be purchased separately from platforms like Amazon or instanthome.com.

These features enhance the user experience by providing a more controlled and convenient cooking process. The option for quieter steam release can be particularly appealing in households where noise levels must be minimized during meal preparation.

Smartest Model: Pro Plus

The Pro Plus model is the smartest Instant Pot with its Wi-Fi capability and app-controlled cooking, allowing for more convenient and customizable meal preparation. With advanced technology features, this model offers a seamless and futuristic cooking experience.

Wi-Fi capability and app-controlled cooking

The Pro Plus model of Instant Pot comes with Wi-Fi capability and app-controlled cooking. This means you can control your cooking from anywhere using the Instant Brands Connect app, which offers 800+ chef-curated recipes.

The app also provides various filter options for recipe selection, making finding and cooking your favorite dishes convenient.

Next, let’s delve into the features of air fryer models..

Cleaning and Maintenance

The inner pot, lid, and sealing ring are all dishwasher safe to keep your Instant Pot in good shape. However, removing the steam release valve before placing it in the dishwasher is important.

This prevents any potential damage during cleaning. Additionally, be aware that power usage varies by model size: three-quart models consume 700 Watts, six-quart models consume 1000 Watts, and eight-quart models consume 1200 Watts.

These simple steps will ensure your Instant Pot stays clean and well-maintained for years of cooking enjoyment.

Power Consumption

Regarding power consumption, Instant Pot models vary based on their size and specific features. The three-quart models consume 700 Watts, while the six-quart models use 1000 Watts of power.

If you opt for an eight-quart model, be prepared for a higher power consumption of 1200 Watts. However, the Evo Plus, Pro Plus, and Pro models in the six-quart size all have a power requirement of 1200 Watts.

On the other hand, Evo Plus, Pro Plus, and Pro models in the larger eight-quart size consume an increased amount of 1400 Watts.

Price Comparison

Comparing prices of Instant Pot models ensures you get the best value for your needs. Below is a comparison chart for the six-quart models, which showcases the varying costs of the Instant Pot Duo as the most budget-friendly option to the feature-rich and pricier Pro Plus model.

Model	Instant Pot Duo	Instant Pot Pro Plus	Instant Pot Pro Crisp
Size	6 Quart	6 Quart	8 Quart (only size)
Price	$89.99	$169.99	$229.99
Availability	Amazon, instanthome.com, Retail Stores	Amazon, instanthome.com, Retail Stores	Amazon, instanthome.com, Retail Stores

Remember, prices may vary based on sales or special promotions. It’s recommended to check various sellers for the best deal. Keep an eye out for the Pro Crisp model, which comes only in an eight-quart size and may be ideal for larger families or those looking for the added air frying feature.

Best Time to Purchase

The best time to buy an Instant Pot is during Thanksgiving, Black Friday sales, or other major holidays because that’s when you can find the best deals and discounts. You can purchase Instant Pots from various places like Amazon, instanthome.com, and major retail stores.

Watch for special promotions and offers to get the most value for your money.

Instant Pot vs. Traditional Pressure Cookers

Instant Pot is gaining popularity due to its convenience and multitasking abilities. Unlike traditional pressure cookers, Instant Pot offers multiple functions in a single device, which includes pressure cooking, slow cooking, steaming, and even making yogurt.

It’s also safer with built-in safety features like lid-locking mechanisms and automatic steam release. Moreover, Instant Pot allows for precise temperature control and hands-free operation.

Compared to traditional pressure cookers that only offer one function – pressure cooking – the Instant Pot provides more versatility in the kitchen. Its ability to replace numerous appliances makes it an appealing option for those looking to simplify their cooking routine without sacrificing variety or taste.

Cooking with an Instant Pot

Cooking with an Instant Pot is easy, making it perfect for busy individuals. You can easily create delicious “dump and go” recipes or try pot-in-pot cooking for various dishes.

Easy cooking

Cooking with an Instant Pot is easy, requiring minimal hands-on time. You can prepare various dishes like curries, stews, soups, one-pot meals, biryanis, pot roasts, and pasta without much effort.

The “dump and go” recipes allow you to add all ingredients simultaneously without pre-cooking. The pot-in-pot cooking method lets you cook multiple dishes simultaneously using stackable pans or containers within the Instant Pot; this is especially useful for making a complete meal with the same cooking time.

The unattended pressure-cooking feature lets you set your Instant Pot and leave it to cook while attending to other tasks. Moreover,\u00A0the initial test run or “water run”\u00A0is recommended before first use\u2014a simple step that ensures seamless usage of your new appliance.\u00A0.

“Dump and go” recipes.

Shifting from easy cooking, Instant Pot’s “dump and go” recipes take convenience to the next level. This method makes unattended cooking possible once the pressure cook mode is set, freeing up time for other tasks.

Ingredients can be placed directly into the Instant Pot without pre-cooking, making it a hassle-free way to prepare delicious meals. This cooking style saves time and retains the taste and flavors of your dishes while allowing for pot-in-pot cooking so that multiple items can be prepared simultaneously.

Pot-in-pot cooking

Transitioning from the simplicity of “dump and go” recipes, pot-in-pot cooking is another ingenious method Instant Pot offers. This technique allows you to cook multiple dishes simultaneously with the same cooking duration.

Using separate containers within the main inner pot, you can simultaneously prepare different dishes that require similar cooking times, optimizing your Instant Pot’s capacity and saving time.

With pot-in-pot cooking, you can create a complete meal all at once without worrying about flavors mixing or compromising on precise cooking times.

This innovative feature expands your culinary possibilities and makes meal preparation more efficient. You can now quickly cook various foods for a well-balanced meal without overseeing multiple individual cooking processes.

Variety of dishes

The Instant Pot offers various cooking possibilities, including curries, stews, soups, biryanis, and pasta dishes. It is also suitable for preparing one-pot meals and pot roasts.

Certain models even have a cake function for pressure or steam-cooking cakes. However, the texture of cakes made in the Instant Pot may differ from those baked in an oven as they lack the crispy brown top and sides.

While it excels at many cooking methods, it’s not ideal for stir-frying or deep frying. On the bright side, you can easily make “dump and go” recipes with the Instant Pot – where ingredients are placed in the pot without pre-cooking.

Cautions and Limitations

When using an Instant Pot, be aware that the texture of cakes may differ from traditional baking methods. Additionally, it’s unsuitable for stir-frying or deep frying and may not be ideal for traveling due to its size and weight.

Texture of cakes

Instant Pot cakes have a soft and moist texture but lack the crispy exterior that oven-baked cakes typically have. This is because the Instant Pot uses steam to cook, resulting in a different texture for the cakes than traditional baking methods.

Despite not having the same texture as oven-baked cakes, many people enjoy the convenience and unique consistency of Instant Pot cakes.

Moving on to another key feature of Instant Pots – Lid Features.

Not suitable for stir-frying or deep-frying

Instant Pot is inappropriate for stir-frying or deep frying because it can quickly brown the food, affecting its taste and appearance. The Instant Pot uses moist heat and pressure to cook food, which differs from the high-heat cooking needed for stir-frying and deep frying.

Using it for these purposes may result in undesirable outcomes. An oven or traditional stovetop cooking methods are more suitable for getting crispy textures on foods like chicken or vegetables.

If you attempt to stir-fry or deep fry in your Instant Pot, the food might not achieve the desired texture and flavor due to its cooking technique based on pressure and steam.

Not ideal for traveling

While the Instant Pot is versatile for cooking various dishes, it’s not ideal for traveling. Due to its size and weight, taking vacations or trips is not convenient. Additionally, the inner pot and delicate parts could be at risk of damage during transportation.

This limitation is essential to consider when deciding to purchase an Instant Pot.

Power Consumption

Instant Pots consume different amounts of power depending on their size and model:

– Three-quart models use 700 Watts.

– Six-quart models use 1000 Watts.

– Eight-quart models use 1200 Watts.

– Evo Plus, Pro Plus, and Pro models in the six-quart size use 1200 Watts.

– Evo Plus, Pro Plus, and Pro models in the eight-quart size consume 1400 Watts.

Initial Use and Recipe Alterations

Before using your Instant Pot for the first time, it’s best to conduct an initial test run, also known as a “water run.” This helps familiarize you with the appliance and ensures everything is functioning correctly.

– When adjusting recipe quantity, the pressure cooking time generally remains consistent. This means that the pressure cooking time won’t change significantly whether you’re cooking a small or large batch.

– If you’re working with more extensive or thicker cuts of meat or cooking frozen meat, adjusted cooking times will be needed to ensure thorough and safe cooking.

– For those new to Instant Pot, the Duo model is recommended due to its user-friendly nature and versatility in recipes.

– Individuals seeking more advanced features may find that upgrading to the Pro model offers additional settings and capabilities tailored to their needs.

Recommendations for Beginners and Upgraders

1. Instant Pot Duo is great for beginners due to its comprehensive functions and affordability.

2. Consider the Instant Pot Pro if you want to upgrade, as it offers advanced features and settings.

Now, let’s discuss choosing the right size Instant Pot.

Choosing the Right Size

The 3-quart Instant Pot is for 1-2 people, suitable for smaller households.

For 3-5 people, the 6-quart Instant Pot is recommended, providing ample servings.

Ideal for larger families or frequent entertaining, the 8-quart Instant Pot is perfect for 5-8 people.

Starting with a New Instant Pot

Now that you’ve chosen the right size for your Instant Pot, here’s how to get started with your new appliance:

1. Do a water test run before using your new Instant Pot. This ensures that everything is working correctly.
2. Begin with simple dishes like rice or soup. This helps you get comfortable with using the different functions.
3. Familiarize yourself with the buttons and settings on your Instant Pot. Each model may have unique features.
4. Adjust cooking times as needed when trying new recipes or altering quantities. Larger or thicker cuts of meat may require longer cooking times.
5. Pay attention to safety precautions and guidelines provided in the user manual.
6. Join online communities or watch instructional videos to learn more about using your specific Instant Pot model.
7. Experiment with pot-in-pot cooking to prepare multiple dishes or ingredients simultaneously.
8. Use the sauté function to brown meats or sauté onions and garlic before pressure cooking for added flavor.

Instant Pot Cooking Videos

Get inspired and learn new cooking techniques with our Instant Pot cooking videos collection. From beginner-friendly recipes to advanced tips and tricks, our videos will help you maximize the potential of your Instant Pot.

Subscribe to our channel for weekly updates and engage with a community of fellow Instant Pot enthusiasts.

Encouragement to subscribe and engage

Join our community of Instant Pot enthusiasts by subscribing to our channel for the latest reviews and cooking videos. Share your favorite Instant Pot model in the comments below, and let’s start a conversation about which features you love the most.

We’re here to answer your questions and provide more information about how to get the most out of your Instant Pot experience. Let’s connect over our love for hassle-free cooking and innovative kitchen appliances.

Detailed Model Reviews

The Instant Pot Pro Plus features Wi-Fi capability and can be controlled through the Instant Brands Connect app. It also provides access to over 800 chef-curated recipes, making it a smart choice for tech-savvy cooks seeking inspiration.

Additionally, prices have been compared for six-quart models, except for the Pro Crisp, which is only available in eight quarts. The Duo model is the most affordable option, while the Pro Plus is the highest-priced model.

When considering power consumption, Evo Plus, Pro Plus, and Pro models in six-quart sizes consume 1200 Watts, and eight-quart size consume 1400 Watts. For those on a budget or looking for a deal, purchasing an Instant Pot during Thanksgiving sales or major holidays is recommended.

Moving on from detailed model reviews, let’s delve into the lid features of these popular instant pots that play a crucial role in their functionality and convenience.

Conclusion

Finding the suitable Instant Pot model in 2024 involves considering your specific cooking needs and preferences. Each model offers unique features, from air frying to yogurt making, so it’s essential to weigh what matters most to you.

Whether it’s the convenience of app-controlled cooking with the Pro Plus or the versatility of a standard multi-cooker, there’s an Instant Pot for everyone. Understanding these distinctions and taking advantage of comparison charts can help you make an informed decision that suits your lifestyle and culinary aspirations as we head into 2024.

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