Best Pressure Cookers iMore 2021

Digital pressure cookers are incredibly popular kitchen appliances because they are versatile and easy to operate. You can make soups, stews, meats, vegetables, and grains more efficiently with them than traditional cooking methods. The preset options will also keep track of cooking times for you, letting you focus on other kitchen tasks. Not sure which to buy? We've gathered a collection of the best digital pressure cookers you'll want to add to your kitchen right now.

Instant Pot Ultra, 6 QT

Top-of-the-line: Instant Pot Ultra 10-in-1, 6 QT

Staff Pick

Instant Pot calls this their Ultra model, and for a good reason. The display is fully illuminated with an even larger blue LCD than previous models and includes settings for altitude, custom temperatures, and a cooking progress indicator. Some of the preset modes have slightly changed, and modes for eggs, cakes, sous vide, and sterilizing have been added.

$132 at Amazon
Instant Pot DUO, 6 QT

Upgraded original: Instant Pot DUO 7-in-1, 6 QT

Get seven features in one small appliance with this model of Instant Pot's famous pressure cooker. You can cook foods 2-6 times faster and save up to 70% energy, thanks to a microprocessor that constantly monitors and adjusts temperatures. This top-selling model also comes in 3-quart and 8-quart sizes.

$79 at Amazon
Instant Pot DUO Plus, 6 QT

Safety first: Instant Pot DUO Plus 9-in-1, 6 QT

Unlike the Duo, the Duo Plus includes a smart sous vide preset, as well as an easy-seal lid. The two largest versions of this model have 15 cooking presets, with modes for Cake and Beans included. You can relax when using this model because it has ten built-in safety features to prevent overheating and pressure issues.

$119 at Amazon
Instant Pot Duo Nova, 3 QT

Easy seal: Instant Pot Duo Nova 7-in-1, 3 QT

This slightly newer version of Instant Pot still offers 7-in-1 cooking, but some other conveniences as well. Instead of manually closing the steam release valve, this model will do it automatically. And when you're ready to release the pressure, there's a quick-release button available, so there's no more waiting.

$80 at Amazon
Ninja Foodi 7-in-1 Multi-Cooker, 3 QT

Crisp it up: Ninja Foodi 7-in-1 Multi-Cooker, 3 QT

Ninja takes the pressure cooker one step further by adding the ability to air fry foods. You could be eating crispy foods with up to 75% less fat than traditional deep frying in no time. This model supports five stovetop temperature settings, and the interior pot is non-stick, making it easy to clean after sauteing or cooking grains.

$168 at Amazon
Yedi Total Package Pressure Cooker, 6 QT

Starter kit: Yedi 9-in-1 Total Package Pressure Cooker, 6 QT

A steaming basket, a measuring cup, a glass lid, a ladle, a rice paddle, and two egg racks are included with this pressure cooker. In addition to conventional pressure cooking, you can also use this model from Yedi to make cakes, eggs, and yogurt. With everything included, this option makes a great housewarming or college dorm gift.

$79 at Amazon

Under pressure

Digital pressure cookers offer a variety of cooking options and settings that save time in the kitchen. For most people, we think the Instant Pot Ultra 10-in-1, 6 QT is the best option. It has all of Instant Pot's available cooking presets and an easy-to-read illuminated display. The settings allow for more fine-tuning than other models, with custom temperatures making sure food is perfect every time. Plus, it's from the original maker of digital pressure cookers.

Looking to spend a bit less or make smaller meals? The Instant Pot Duo Nova 7-in-1, 3 QT is also a great option. It makes meals for one or two people and features seven of the preset cooking modes the brand has to offer. You'll also enjoy the automatic steam valve on this model, so there's one less thing to remember in the kitchen.

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