10 Best Slow Cookers

The Instant Pot Pro 10-in-1 is a versatile multi-cooker with a 5.7-litre capacity, making it suitable for small families or batch cooking. Its compact and fairly square shape is designed to fit comfortably on kitchen countertops without taking up too much space. It offers 10 cooking functions, including slow cooking, pressure cooking, sous vide, and yoghurt making, adding significant value as an all-in-one appliance.

You can control the cooker remotely via an app, which provides flexibility to adjust cooking times and temperatures without being in the kitchen. This also enhances the precise and convenient timer feature for planning meals ahead. The cooker includes a locking lid and a keep-warm setting, both important for slow cooking safety and convenience. Constructed from metal, plastic, and stainless steel, it feels sturdy and durable, although its 6.67 kg weight makes it less portable.

Using 1200 watts, the Instant Pot allows for faster cooking compared to traditional slow cookers, saving time and energy. While some users might find the multi-cooker’s electric heating and app control more complex than a basic slow cooker, its dishwasher-safe parts make cleaning easier. If you mainly want a slow cooker for simple, long, slow simmering, this Instant Pot might be more than necessary, but for those who appreciate extra features like pressure cooking, sous vide, and smart controls, it combines convenience and efficiency effectively.

The Instant Pot Duo Plus is a versatile 5.7-litre multi-cooker that includes slow cooking among its nine functions. Its size is ideal for family meals or batch cooking, fitting well within the typical range for slow cookers. Made from stainless steel, it promises durability and easy cleaning. The device offers programmable temperature and timing controls via a touch panel, allowing you to set cooking precisely and benefit from features like delay start and automatic shut-off, which add convenience and safety.

One of its strengths is the wide range of cooking methods it supports, including pressure cooking, sautéing, steaming, and even sous vide, which makes it more than just a slow cooker. The slow cook function itself performs well, but some users might find the digital controls a bit complex if they prefer a simple dial. The WhisperQuiet steam release helps reduce noise, which is a plus for busy households. On the downside, the unit is relatively heavy at 5.58 kg and somewhat bulky, so it needs a dedicated spot in your kitchen.

Energy efficiency is another benefit, reportedly saving up to 80% compared to traditional ovens. For those looking for an all-in-one appliance that can replace several kitchen gadgets and who don’t mind the learning curve, this Instant Pot is a solid choice. However, if you only want a straightforward slow cooker, a simpler model might be easier to use and more affordable.

The Ninja Combi 12-In-1 Multi-Cooker is a versatile kitchen appliance that goes beyond a traditional slow cooker by combining 12 cooking functions, including slow cook, air fry, bake, steam, and more. With a large 12.5-litre capacity, it's well-suited for families or those who like to prepare meals for several people at once. This size means you can easily cook family-size meals, which is a strong point for busy households.

Its shape is compact and practical, with dimensions that fit comfortably on most kitchen countertops without taking up too much space. The device features an easy-access door with a viewing window, allowing you to monitor cooking progress without opening the door and losing heat, which is handy. In terms of temperature settings, the Ninja offers multiple precise cooking modes rather than just basic high, low, or keep-warm settings common in slow cookers. This gives you more control and flexibility but may require some learning if you are used to simple slow cookers. The built-in timer and recipe guide help simplify the process.

Made from aluminium and plastic, the materials are durable and easy to clean, though the appliance is relatively heavy at 10.5 kg, so it’s less portable than smaller slow cookers. Its biggest advantage is its multifunctionality—it replaces over ten kitchen appliances, saving space and money if you want an all-in-one device. If you are looking purely for a straightforward slow cooker without extra features, this might be more complex and pricier than needed. The Ninja Combi 12-In-1 is ideal for families or anyone interested in versatile cooking options beyond slow cooking, offering a large capacity and many functions in one compact unit. Those wanting simplicity and only slow cooking might find a basic slow cooker easier to use, but for flexibility and faster meal prep, this is a strong choice.