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An Instant Pot or electric pressure cooker is one of the most versatile appliances you can own. It replaces your slow cooker, steamer, rice cooker, and saute pan – and cooks food dramatically faster than conventional methods. Here are the best options for 2026.
Best Instant Pots and Pressure Cookers
| Model | Best For | Capacity | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 | Best overall value | 6 qt | ~$80 |
| Instant Pot Pro 10-in-1 | Advanced users | 6 qt | ~$100 |
| Ninja Foodi OL701 | Air fryer + pressure | 8 qt | ~$180 |
| Breville Fast Slow Pro | Premium pick | 6 qt | ~$200 |
1. Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 – Best Overall
The Instant Pot Duo remains the best all-around electric pressure cooker for most people. It pressure cooks, slow cooks, sautes, steams, makes rice, makes yogurt, and keeps food warm – all in one pot. Simple interface, huge community of recipes online. Check Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 on Amazon
2. Ninja Foodi – Best for Air Frying + Pressure Cooking
The Ninja Foodi combines pressure cooking with air frying – pressure cook your chicken, then air fry it to get crispy skin. If you want both functions without buying two appliances, this is the best option. Check Ninja Foodi on Amazon
Best Dishes for Instant Pot
- Pot roast (1.5 hours of oven time reduced to 60 minutes)
- Chicken stock (4-6 hours simmering reduced to 45 minutes)
- Dried beans (no soaking needed, ready in 30-40 minutes)
- Rice (perfect every time, 3 minutes on high pressure)
- Cheesecake (steaming produces a crack-free result)
For most households, the Instant Pot Duo 6 quart is the ideal starting size. If you regularly cook for 6+ people, consider the 8-quart version.
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