10 Best Smart Slow Cooker 2025 in the United States

The Ninja MC1001 Foodi PossibleCooker PRO is an impressive multi-cooker designed to replace several kitchen appliances, making it ideal for those who enjoy cooking but want to save space. With a generous 8.5-quart capacity, it can effortlessly prepare meals for large gatherings, accommodating up to 20 servings, which is perfect for families or entertaining guests.

One of its standout features is the ability to sear and sauté directly in the pot, eliminating the need to transfer food to the stovetop. This is not only convenient but also speeds up meal prep. The cooker’s triple fusion heat technology cooks food up to 30% faster than traditional methods, providing added efficiency. Additionally, with eight cooking functions including slow cook, steam, and sous vide, it offers versatility that suits various culinary needs.

In terms of materials, the nonstick pot is oven safe up to 500°F, allowing for finishing touches like a crispy top on casseroles or baked dishes. The easy cleanup process is a major plus, as the nonstick surface simplifies maintenance, although hand-washing is recommended to prolong the pot’s lifespan. The inclusion of a multifunctional utensil also enhances the user experience. The product is not dishwasher safe, which may be a dealbreaker for some users accustomed to hassle-free cleaning. Additionally, while it replaces many appliances, it may not entirely meet the needs of those who prefer specialized tools for specific cooking methods. The 12-pound weight could also be cumbersome for some when maneuvering in the kitchen.

The Hamilton Beach Slow Cooker, with its 10-quart capacity, is ideal for large gatherings, easily accommodating a 10 lb. turkey or a 12 lb. roast, making it perfect for feeding a crowd of 12 or more. The standout feature is the Stay or Go Portable Lid Lock, which helps reduce spills during transportation, ensuring minimal mess. The cooker is user-friendly, with simple dial controls allowing for minimal effort in cooking. It offers three heat settings—Low, High, and Warm—to maintain the ideal temperature for your meals without constant monitoring.

Safety and convenience are further highlighted with its full-grip handles that make it easy to transport and serve food directly at the table. Additionally, the removable stoneware crock and glass lid are dishwasher safe, simplifying the cleaning process. However, it's important to note that the slow cooker lacks advanced programmable settings and connectivity options, which some users might expect in a 'smart' slow cooker.

The material and build quality, featuring stoneware and glass, are sturdy but add to the overall weight of 15.7 pounds, making it slightly cumbersome. Despite these drawbacks, the Hamilton Beach Slow Cooker shines in its primary function of slow cooking large meals efficiently and safely, making it an excellent choice for families and those who frequently host gatherings.

The Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker offers impressive versatility with its multifunctionality, including slow cooking, pressure cooking, steaming, and more. With a substantial 8-quart capacity, it's ideal for large families or those who enjoy meal prepping. The stainless steel build ensures durability and ease of cleaning, as the inner pot and accessories are dishwasher-safe.

Connectivity is enhanced through the Instant Brands Connect App, which provides a vast array of recipes for users to explore. The device includes numerous safety features such as overheat protection and a safe-locking lid, prioritizing user safety. Programmability is a significant strength, with 13 customizable Smart Programs that simplify cooking various dishes with one-touch controls.

However, for those looking strictly for a slow cooker, the multitude of features might be overwhelming and unnecessary. Additionally, the product's weight (10.1 pounds) and size might require considerable storage space in the kitchen. The Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 is a robust option for users seeking an all-in-one kitchen appliance that goes beyond slow cooking, offering versatility and convenience in meal preparation.