10 Best Slow Cookers 2025 in the United States

The Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 is a versatile kitchen appliance that excels in the slow-cooking category while also offering additional functionalities like pressure cooking and rice cooking. With a generous 6-quart capacity, it's suitable for families or individuals looking to meal prep. One of its standout features is the ability to switch between quick pressure cooking and traditional slow cooking, allowing you to prepare meals in a time-efficient manner or embrace slower recipes that develop deeper flavors.

The user-friendly interface includes 13 Smart Programs, making it easy to cook various dishes at the touch of a button, which is great for those who may not be comfortable with complex cooking techniques. The stainless-steel insert is not only durable but also ensures even heat distribution, enhancing the cooking process.

On the practical side, this model is designed for easy cleaning, with dishwasher-safe components and a fingerprint-resistant exterior, which is a welcomed convenience for busy cooks. Safety is also a priority, with over 10 built-in safety features, including overheat protection and a secure locking lid, so you can cook without worry. The Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 is an excellent choice for those seeking a multi-functional slow cooker that can also pressure cook, providing flexibility in meal preparation. It is perfect for busy families and anyone interested in experimenting with various cooking styles.

The Instant Pot Duo Crisp is a versatile kitchen appliance that combines the functions of an air fryer and a pressure cooker, making it suitable for those who enjoy cooking a variety of meals. With its 11-in-1 functionality, it offers the ability to slow cook, pressure cook, sauté, and even air fry, which means it can cater to different cooking preferences and styles. This flexibility is great for families or individuals looking to prepare diverse meals without needing multiple appliances.

In terms of capacity, the 6-quart size is adequate for cooking meals for up to six people, making it a solid choice for growing families or meal prepping. The stainless-steel inner pot enhances durability and provides even cooking, which is a plus. It also features a range of temperature settings and a convenient timer, allowing for easy meal preparation.

One of the standout features is the EvenCrisp technology that enables air frying with significantly less oil, appealing to health-conscious users. The free app with over 1900 recipes is also a fantastic resource for those who appreciate guidance in the kitchen. The appliance is relatively heavy at 19.58 pounds, which may make it cumbersome to move or store. While it does have safety features, users might find the initial learning curve a bit steep, especially with all its functionalities. Some users may prefer a dedicated slow cooker for traditional slow-cooking tasks, as this device is more of a multi-cooker. Cleaning is generally straightforward, with many parts being dishwasher safe, though some users may find the parts complex to clean thoroughly after certain recipes.

The Instant Pot Duo Crisp offers a broad range of cooking options, making it an excellent fit for anyone looking for a multifunctional kitchen tool that can replace several appliances. It serves well in the slow-cooker category but may require some adjustment for those primarily used to simpler models.

The Crock-Pot 7 Quart Oval Manual Slow Cooker (SCV700-S-BR) is a solid choice for large families or those who enjoy entertaining, thanks to its generous 7-quart capacity, capable of serving over nine people or accommodating a 7-pound roast. The oval shape is practical for various types of meals, from stews to roasts. It offers basic but effective temperature settings – high, low, and a warm function, making it versatile for different cooking needs. The manual control is straightforward, although it might not appeal to those seeking more automated, programmable options.

One of its standout features is the removable stoneware insert, which can be used in the microwave or oven up to 400°F, adding to its versatility. Cleanup is relatively hassle-free since both the lid and the stoneware are dishwasher safe. The stainless steel exterior gives it a stylish appearance that can fit well in most kitchen decors. However, the plastic handles might feel less premium and could be a point of concern for some users regarding durability.

While it's not packed with modern tech features, its simplicity makes it user-friendly, especially for those who prefer a 'set it and forget it' approach. Given its economical price point, it also offers a cost-effective way to prepare healthy, home-cooked meals. It could benefit from more advanced timer settings, but its robust design and practical features make it a reliable tool in the kitchen.