10 Best Smart Slow Cooker 2025 in the United States

The Instant Pot Pro (8 QT) 10-in-1 Pressure Cooker is a versatile kitchen appliance that combines multiple functions, including pressure cooking, slow cooking, sous vide, sautéing, and more, making it a valuable addition for anyone looking to simplify meal preparation. With a generous 8-quart capacity, it's perfect for larger families or individuals who meal prep in bulk.

The device offers 5 programmable settings for personalized recipes and 28 preset options for convenience, which caters to both novice and experienced cooks. Additionally, the free Instant Brands Connect App provides access to over 800 recipes, enhancing its ease of use. The build quality is impressive, featuring a premium cookware-grade stainless steel inner pot with stay-cool silicone handles, ensuring durability and ease of handling. The inclusion of overheat protection, a safe locking lid, and a gentle steam release switch with a diffusing cover adds to the safety of the appliance.

However, the lack of advanced connectivity features, such as Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, might be a drawback for those who prefer remote control capabilities. Some users might also find the unit's weight (15.83 pounds) a bit cumbersome for regular handling. Despite these minor cons, the Instant Pot Pro delivers excellent performance with higher power for better sautéing and shorter preheating times, making it a strong contender in the smart-slow-cooker category. Its versatility, safety features, and robust build quality make it particularly suitable for families and cooking enthusiasts looking for a reliable and multifunctional kitchen tool.

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.

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.