10 Best Portable Slow Cookers 2025 in the United States

The Instant Pot Duo Plus is a versatile kitchen appliance that combines the functions of nine different devices, including a slow cooker, pressure cooker, and rice cooker. With an impressive 8-quart capacity, it is well-suited for larger families or those who enjoy meal prepping. The material is high-quality food-grade stainless steel, ensuring durability and even cooking. Its shape and design, however, make it somewhat bulky and less convenient for portability, which could be a drawback if you need to move it frequently or have limited counter space.

The device features multiple temperature settings and 15 smart cooking programs, offering flexibility and ease of use for a variety of dishes. The easy-to-read display and real-time feedback are especially helpful for monitoring the cooking progress. While it doesn't include batteries, the automated operation and touch controls make it user-friendly. The Instant Pot Duo Plus also includes safety features like overheat protection and a safe-locking lid, adding peace of mind.

Cleaning is straightforward with its dishwasher-safe components, though the unit's 15.56-pound weight might be cumbersome for some users. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Instant Pot Duo Plus stands out for its multifunctionality and efficiency, making it an excellent choice for those looking to simplify meal preparation with a reliable and robust appliance.

The Instant Pot Pro 10-in-1 is versatile, offering functionality beyond a traditional slow cooker. With a 6-quart capacity, it is suitable for larger families or meal prepping, which is a strength for those needing to cook large meals. The portability can be a bit challenging due to its weight (13.2 pounds) and dimensions, making it less convenient to transport compared to lighter slow cookers.

The device comes with customizable cooking programs and 5 programmable settings, giving users control over their recipes, which is a positive aspect for those looking for flexibility in cooking methods. Temperature settings are extensive with 10 different modes including sous vide, sauté, and more, catering to varied cooking needs. The programmable timer ensures meals can be cooked accurately and efficiently. The stainless steel material is durable and easy to clean, while the matte black finish offers a sleek look.

The shape is relatively compact, but the height may make it a bit awkward to store in smaller kitchen spaces. Safety features are robust, including overheat protection and a gentle steam release switch, providing peace of mind during use. Additionally, the Instant Pot app offers over 800 recipes, which is fantastic for users seeking new meal inspirations. Accessories like the extra sealing ring and steamer rack add to the convenience, although the optional QuickCool Tray is sold separately, which could be a drawback for some. This is a strong contender for those who need a multifunctional cooker with extensive features and safety options, though its portability might not be ideal for frequent movers.

The Crock-Pot 7-Quart Slow Cooker is an excellent choice for those in need of a portable and large-capacity slow cooker. It shines with its 7-quart capacity, making it ideal for families or gatherings as it can serve 7 or more people. The portability features are well thought out, with a travel-proof locking lid that prevents leaks and spills and convenient 'Cook and Carry' handles for easy transportation. Its oval shape ensures it can fit different types of food comfortably.

The material is stainless steel which is durable and recyclable, adding to its sustainability credentials. Additionally, the flat digital control screen is user-friendly, allowing you to schedule meal times and manually control cooking time and temperature, ensuring your meals are perfectly cooked every time. The auto-adjustment cooking cycle is a bonus for those who want a foolproof cooking experience.

The Crock-Pot also comes equipped with a dishwasher-safe feature, making clean-up a breeze. However, its weight of 5.9 kilograms might be a bit cumbersome for some users when transporting. The voltage and wattage (120 volts and 1500 watts respectively) are standard, but it’s always good to ensure compatibility with your kitchen’s electrical setup. This slow cooker excels in capacity, portability, user-friendliness, and sustainability, making it a great addition to any kitchen, particularly for those who frequently entertain or have larger families.