10 Best Slow Cookers 2025 in the United States

The Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 is a versatile kitchen appliance that excels in the slow-cooking category while also offering additional functionalities like pressure cooking and rice cooking. With a generous 6-quart capacity, it's suitable for families or individuals looking to meal prep. One of its standout features is the ability to switch between quick pressure cooking and traditional slow cooking, allowing you to prepare meals in a time-efficient manner or embrace slower recipes that develop deeper flavors.

The user-friendly interface includes 13 Smart Programs, making it easy to cook various dishes at the touch of a button, which is great for those who may not be comfortable with complex cooking techniques. The stainless-steel insert is not only durable but also ensures even heat distribution, enhancing the cooking process.

On the practical side, this model is designed for easy cleaning, with dishwasher-safe components and a fingerprint-resistant exterior, which is a welcomed convenience for busy cooks. Safety is also a priority, with over 10 built-in safety features, including overheat protection and a secure locking lid, so you can cook without worry. The Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 is an excellent choice for those seeking a multi-functional slow cooker that can also pressure cook, providing flexibility in meal preparation. It is perfect for busy families and anyone interested in experimenting with various cooking styles.

The Ninja MC1001 Foodi PossibleCooker PRO is a versatile 8.5-quart slow cooker that replaces 14 kitchen tools including slow cookers, steamers, and even an oven-safe pot. Its large round-shaped insert suits big batches, making it ideal for families or entertaining guests. The pot’s durable aluminum construction with a nonstick ceramic coating eases cleanup, though hand washing is recommended to maintain its condition. The glass lid allows you to watch your food without lifting it, and it includes a handy integrated spoon with a built-in rest.

This cooker offers 8 cooking functions including slow cook, sear/sauté, steam, and sous vide, providing flexibility beyond typical slow cookers. Its triple fusion heat technology cooks faster by heating from the bottom, sides, and steam, saving time without sacrificing flavor. Temperature controls are touch-based and user-friendly. The pot is oven safe up to 500°F, allowing you to finish dishes with a crispy top, a feature uncommon in many slow cookers.

The unit is fairly heavy (over 12 pounds) and its nonstick pot is not dishwasher safe, which might affect cleaning convenience. The price may be higher than basic slow cookers due to its multi-functionality. This slow cooker is an excellent choice for those seeking a large-capacity, versatile appliance capable of multiple cooking methods in one device.

The Instant Pot RIO Wide Base is a versatile 7-in-1 multi-cooker with a substantial 7.5-quart capacity, making it ideal for large families or meal prepping. Its wide shape is excellent for fitting larger ingredients like a whole chicken or multiple racks of ribs. The stainless steel insert with a tri-ply bottom ensures even cooking and is durable. The pot and lid are dishwasher-safe, simplifying cleanup.

This multi-cooker offers multiple cooking functions including slow cooking, pressure cooking, steaming, sautéing, and more, making it a jack-of-all-trades in the kitchen. The WhisperQuiet steam release feature is a thoughtful addition for quieter operation. A guided assistant and cooking progress indicator make it user-friendly, even for those not familiar with advanced kitchen gadgets.

On the downside, the device is heavy, weighing 17.86 pounds, and its glossy finish might require regular cleaning to maintain its appearance. Additionally, it does not support stovetop or oven use. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Instant Pot RIO Wide Base stands out for its wide searing base and modern design, promising efficiency and convenience for a variety of cooking needs.