An electric multi-cooker can replace an electric pressure cooker, slow cooker, rice cooker and steamer all on its own. Some models go even further, offering an air fryer function, sous vide cooking or even a yoghurt-making mode.
The range is vast, and manufacturers’ promises alone are not enough to guarantee the right choice. An incorrectly assessed capacity, programmes you never use or awkward cleaning can quickly turn this versatile appliance into a bulky nuisance. Here are the key criteria to consider before you buy.
An 8 L appliance does not necessarily allow you to pressure-cook 8 L of food. To prevent splashes and allow steam to circulate properly, the cooking pot should generally not be filled to the brim. Ingredients that expand during cooking, such as rice, lentils and beans, require even more room.
Choose the capacity based on the number of portions you usually prepare:
An appliance advertised as « 7-in-1» or « 9-in-1» may combine pressure cooking, slow cooking, browning, steaming, keeping food warm, rice cooking and yoghurt making. However, a long list of programmes does not guarantee intuitive operation or convincing results for every recipe.
Instead, focus on the functions you will genuinely use. The air fryer mode often requires an additional lid, along with the storage space that entails. Sous vide cooking, meanwhile, requires precise temperature control and suitable bags.
A family-sized multi-cooker can be heavy and particularly deep. The Instant Pot Pro Crisp 7.6 L, for example, is listed as measuring 39 cm high, 36.16 cm wide and weighing 11.88 kg. Before ordering, measure the available space, remembering to allow enough height to open the lid and sufficient clearance around the air vents.
Dishwasher-safe components make cleaning considerably easier, but the electrical base must never be immersed in water. The sealing ring, valve and lid must also be cleaned regularly.
The stated capacity does not always correspond to the volume genuinely available for pressure cooking. For a couple, a compact 3.8 L multi-cooker may be perfectly adequate while taking up less space on the worktop. The Instant Pot Rio 3.8 L offers seven functions, including pressure cooking, slow cooking, steaming, egg cooking, yoghurt making and keeping food warm.
For preparing around six portions, 5.7 L models are often the best compromise. They are suitable for family meals and batch cooking without reaching the imposing size of 7.6 L or 8 L appliances.
A stainless steel cooking pot generally withstands high temperatures well and is relatively easy to clean. According to its product listing, the Instant Pot Pro uses a 304 stainless steel inner pot. Some models use a non-stick cooking pot instead. This can make cleaning easier, but means you must use non-metal utensils to prevent scratches.
Also check the quality of the handles, whether a steaming basket is included, dishwasher compatibility and the availability of accessories and replacement parts.
A pressure-capable multi-cooker should have a lockable lid, an easily accessible pressure-release valve and mechanisms that prevent the lid from being opened until the pressure has dropped. These safety features do not replace reading the instruction manual.
The essential precautions are as follows:
Why this choice suits this profile : Its 3.8 L capacity is ideal for couples and small kitchens. With 12 advertised programmes, it makes it easy to get started with everyday recipes without needing several different appliances.
Its compact capacity reduces the risk of choosing an oversized appliance that is difficult to fit into a small kitchen.
Stainless steel cooking pot, a wide range of cooking programmes and components listed as dishwasher-safe.
Why this choice suits this profile : Its 5.7 L capacity, 28 advertised programmes and Wi-Fi connectivity are ideal for users who want greater control and personalisation when preparing meals.
The product listing details the functions, capacity and safety mechanisms instead of relying on a simple promise of versatility.
Stainless steel cooking pot, sous vide cooking, keep-warm function and digital controls, according to the product description.
Why this choice suits this profile : Its 7.6 L capacity and two lids meet the needs of large households, batch cooking and crispy preparations.
The functions rely on two separate lids: one for moist cooking and the other for air frying. You will therefore need enough space to store them.
11 advertised functions, an air fryer basket with a ceramic coating and capacity suited to preparing large quantities of food.
We have put together a comprehensive, real-time-updated selection of products that meet these demanding selection criteria and European safety standards.
An electric pressure cooker does not eliminate preparation time. It mainly reduces the amount of supervision required and can speed up certain cooking processes. To compare energy consumption, look at the power rating, the actual usage time and the mode selected. A higher power rating does not automatically mean a higher bill if the programme is short.
For batch cooking, divide the ingredients into several portions without exceeding the fill indicators. When steaming, use enough water and check that the basket does not touch the heating element directly. After each use, clean the cooking pot, lid and valve, then allow the components to dry completely before putting them back in place.
Automatic programmes reduce the number of times you need to intervene, but the appliance heats up and some models operate under pressure. It is best to stay nearby, keep the steam vents clear and prevent children from approaching while it is cooking.
A 5.7 L model is generally suitable for a medium-sized family. To prepare around eight portions or cook in large quantities, a 7.1 L to 8 L appliance will be more suitable. For one person or a couple, 3.8 L is usually sufficient and avoids taking up space with an unnecessarily large appliance.
Its lifespan depends on how often it is used, how well it is cleaned and the condition of the sealing ring. Inspect the valve, lid and power cord regularly. A worn or cracked component must be replaced before further use, in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations.