10 Best Hot Pots 2025 in the United States

The Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker is a versatile kitchen appliance with a generous 8-quart capacity, making it ideal for larger families or those who enjoy meal prepping. Its standout feature is the 7-in-1 functionality, which allows it to serve as a pressure cooker, slow cooker, rice cooker, steamer, sauté pan, yogurt maker, and food warmer. This multi-functionality can save valuable counter space and eliminate the need for multiple devices.

The appliance is made of durable stainless steel, which is both aesthetically pleasing and functional. The material is fingerprint-resistant and the inner pot is dishwasher safe, simplifying the cleaning process. Its tri-ply bottom ensures even cooking, particularly beneficial for sautéing.

With 13 customizable Smart Programs, this cooker offers quick one-touch cooking, which is especially useful for busy individuals who want to prepare meals quickly. Additionally, the Instant Brands Connect App provides over 800 recipes, offering users a wide variety of cooking ideas.

In terms of safety, the Instant Pot Duo is equipped with over 10 safety features, including overheat protection and a safe-locking lid, providing peace of mind during use. However, while the appliance excels in versatility and safety, the large size may not be suitable for smaller kitchens or households with limited storage space.

The Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 is an excellent choice for those seeking a multi-functional, efficient cooking appliance, particularly larger families or those who appreciate the convenience of rapid meal preparation. Its extensive features might be overwhelming for someone seeking a simple, straightforward cooking tool.

The Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 Mini Electric Pressure Cooker stands out in the hot-pot category with its multifunctionality and compact design. This appliance combines seven kitchen tools in one, making it a great fit for those with limited space or for smaller families. With its pressure cooking feature, you can whip up meals up to 70% faster than traditional methods, which is a significant time-saver for busy individuals or those who enjoy quick meals after a long day.

Temperature control is user-friendly, thanks to the 13 customizable Smart Programs, allowing you to easily prepare a variety of dishes like soups, beans, and even desserts. The appliance also offers the convenience of slow cooking, perfect for classic family recipes. The stainless steel material ensures durability and makes cleaning a breeze, as it is fingerprint-resistant and the inner pot is dishwasher-safe.

The 3-quart capacity may feel limiting for larger gatherings or families, as it only accommodates meals for about three people. If you're often cooking for more, you might need to consider a larger model. Additionally, while the safety features are robust, some users may find the initial learning curve a bit steep, especially if they are new to pressure cooking. The inclusion of the Instant Brands Connect App is a bonus for those looking to explore new recipes, but not everyone may find it necessary. The Instant Pot Duo Mini is ideal for small households or meal prep enthusiasts but may not be the best fit for larger families or those who entertain frequently.

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.