10 Best Hot Pots 2025 in the United States

The Crock-Pot 7 Quart Oval Manual Slow Cooker is an excellent choice for large families or those who frequently entertain, thanks to its generous 7-quart capacity that can serve over 9 people or fit a 7-pound roast. The slow cooker offers cooking flexibility with high and low settings, plus a convenient warm function to keep food at the ideal serving temperature. Its set-it-and-forget-it feature makes it perfect for busy individuals who want to prepare meals while handling other tasks.

The stoneware insert is versatile, being safe for use in the microwave and oven up to 400°F, and it’s also dishwasher safe for easy cleanup. The stainless steel exterior with black accents gives it a stylish look suitable for any kitchen decor, and the plastic handles make it practical to handle. It’s an economical and healthy way to prepare meals, reducing the need for multiple dishes and making clean-up straightforward.

However, it does have a manual control system, which might be less convenient compared to digital options available today. Additionally, at 12.55 pounds, it is relatively heavy and might be cumbersome to move around. Despite these minor drawbacks, its versatility, capacity, and ease of use make it a strong contender for anyone looking to invest in a slow cooker.

The Aroma Housewares AROMA® Professional Digital Rice Cooker is a versatile kitchen appliance ideal for families or anyone who enjoys cooking meals easily. With a capacity of 5 quarts, it can prepare up to 20 cups of cooked rice, making it suitable for larger gatherings or meal prepping. One standout feature is the 10 smart cooking modes, simplifying the cooking process for various dishes, from rice and grains to soups and cakes. This means you can simply select your desired mode and let the cooker do the work, which is great for those who might not feel confident in the kitchen.

The Sauté-then-Simmer technology is particularly beneficial, allowing users to sear meat or vegetables before simmering them in one pot. This reduces the need for multiple pots and pans, making cleanup easier. Additionally, the 15-hour delay timer lets users prep meals in advance—perfect for busy lifestyles.

However, there are some considerations to keep in mind. While the appliance is easy to clean with removable, dishwasher-safe components, the manual suggests hand washing, which some users might find inconvenient. The aluminum material can also be a drawback for those who prefer more durable materials like stainless steel. Furthermore, while the size is excellent for families, it may be too large for individuals or couples who don’t require such a capacity, leading to wasted space in smaller kitchens.

The Instant Pot Duo Plus 9-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker is a versatile kitchen appliance that caters particularly well to families or anyone looking to streamline meal prep. With its 9-in-1 functionality, it can pressure cook, slow cook, and even make yogurt, among other things, which saves space and time. The easy-to-use interface features 15 customizable Smart Programs, allowing you to cook a variety of dishes with just a touch of a button. Its stainless steel inner pot ensures even cooking and makes cleaning easier since it's dishwasher safe.

One of the standout features is the improved stress-free venting system, making steam release safer and simpler. This cooker also boasts numerous safety features, such as overheat protection and a safe-locking lid, which add peace of mind while cooking.

The Instant Pot Duo Plus is a great choice for those who want a multi-functional cooker that can simplify meal preparation. Just keep in mind the potential initial learning curve and space requirements. It's a solid investment for those looking to enhance their cooking experience.