10 Best Slow Cookers 2025 in the United States

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.

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 Crock-Pot Large 8-Quart Programmable Slow Cooker is designed to cater to large gatherings, making it ideal for holiday dinners or serving over 10 people. Its substantial 8-quart capacity ensures you can cook enough food for a crowd. The oval shape is practical for fitting various food items, from whole chickens to roasts. The digital timer, which can count down up to 20 hours, offers great flexibility and ease of use, allowing you to monitor the cooking time effortlessly. Additionally, the auto warm feature is handy for keeping the food at the optimal serving temperature once the cooking is done, ensuring your meals stay warm and ready to serve.

Cleanup is simplified with a removable, dishwasher-safe lid and stoneware pot, which saves time and effort. The memory function is a thoughtful addition, as it restores previous settings in case of a power outage, preventing disruptions to your cooking process. The black stainless steel finish not only adds a touch of elegance to your kitchen but is also easy to clean and maintain. However, the appliance is relatively heavy at 6.5 kilograms, which might make it cumbersome to move around frequently. Additionally, the 1500-watt power consumption could be a consideration for energy-conscious users. This slow cooker is best suited for individuals who regularly cook for large groups and appreciate the convenience of programmable settings and easy maintenance.