10 Best Crock Pots 2026 in the United States

The Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 is more than just a crock-pot; it combines slow cooking with pressure cooking, sautéing, steaming, and more in one versatile appliance. Its large 8-quart stainless steel pot means you can cook enough food for a big family or batch meals easily. The stainless steel material with a tri-ply bottom makes it sturdy and great for even heating, including searing, which most traditional crock-pots don’t offer. The lid locks securely and has a safe steam release feature, which adds safety and convenience.

It also offers 13 smart, one-touch programs that let you cook a variety of dishes with minimal guesswork. The built-in timer and automatic operation make it easy to set and forget your meal. Cleanup is simpler thanks to the dishwasher-safe pot and lid. However, it’s larger and heavier than basic slow cookers, which might take up more kitchen space and be less portable. Because it’s a multi-cooker, the shape is more pot-like rather than the typical oval crock-pot shape some users prefer for even heat distribution in slow cooking.

If your main focus is slow cooking, this unit excels but with added benefits of faster cooking options and multifunctionality. It is an excellent choice for anyone who wants the flexibility of slow cooking alongside other cooking methods in one durable and user-friendly device.

The Ninja MC1001 Foodi PossibleCooker PRO is a versatile multi-cooker with an 8.5-quart capacity, ideal for preparing large meals—great for families or entertaining guests. Its round shape and sizable pot can handle significant quantities, such as chili for 20 people or pulled pork for 30 sliders. This cooker offers 8 different cooking functions including slow cook, sear/sauté, steam, braise, bake, sous vide, keep warm, and proof, making it more flexible than a traditional crock-pot. The pot is made of aluminum with a durable nonstick ceramic coating, which makes cleaning easier, although hand washing the pot is recommended to prolong its life. The glass lid with an integrated detachable spoon and utensil rest adds convenience during cooking and serving.

A standout feature is the oven-safe pot that can withstand temperatures up to 500°F, allowing you to finish dishes in the oven for a crispy finish—something most slow cookers can’t do. The triple fusion heat technology cooks faster by combining heat from the bottom, sides, and steam, saving time compared to conventional slow cookers. Controls are touch-based and straightforward to use, and the unit is free of harmful chemicals like PFOA, cadmium, and lead.

On the downside, the unit weighs over 12 pounds and is relatively large, so it might take up a good amount of counter or storage space. While the lid and utensil are dishwasher safe, the main pot is not, which means more hand washing. Also, with 8 cooking settings, beginners might need some time to get used to all the options compared to a simple slow cooker. This multi-cooker fits well for those looking for a highly versatile appliance that combines the functions of a slow cooker, sauté pan, steamer, and more, but it may be less suited for users wanting just a basic, straightforward slow cooker without extra features or size considerations.

The Crockpot® Manual 8-Quart Slow Cooker is a solid choice for those who need to prepare meals for large gatherings, thanks to its ample 8-quart capacity, which can serve over 10 people. Its oval shape is ideal for cooking large cuts of meat and fits well on most countertops. With three temperature settings—HIGH, LOW, and a WARM setting to keep food at serving temperature—this slow cooker offers basic but effective functionality.

It lacks a programmable timer, which means you'll need to be present to manually control the cooking time. The removable stoneware and glass lid make for easy cleaning, as both are dishwasher-safe, a convenient feature for any busy kitchen. Made of stainless steel with a polished red finish, it’s both durable and visually appealing.

While the manual control might be a drawback for some who prefer digital interfaces, it's straightforward and easy to use for those who prefer simplicity. Suitable for anyone needing a reliable and large-capacity slow cooker without too many bells and whistles, it is a practical addition to any home kitchen.