10 Best Hot Pots 2025 in the United States

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.

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 Plus 9-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker is a versatile kitchen appliance that caters particularly well to families or anyone looking to streamline meal prep. With its 9-in-1 functionality, it can pressure cook, slow cook, and even make yogurt, among other things, which saves space and time. The easy-to-use interface features 15 customizable Smart Programs, allowing you to cook a variety of dishes with just a touch of a button. Its stainless steel inner pot ensures even cooking and makes cleaning easier since it's dishwasher safe.

One of the standout features is the improved stress-free venting system, making steam release safer and simpler. This cooker also boasts numerous safety features, such as overheat protection and a safe-locking lid, which add peace of mind while cooking.

The Instant Pot Duo Plus is a great choice for those who want a multi-functional cooker that can simplify meal preparation. Just keep in mind the potential initial learning curve and space requirements. It's a solid investment for those looking to enhance their cooking experience.