A programmable multicooker is a good choice if you want to start a range of dishes and spend less time keeping an eye on them as they cook. A slow cooker may suit you better if slow cooking fits your routine, while an electric pressure cooker is worth considering if you want to cook under pressure and are happy to follow its filling and pressure-release instructions. Whichever you choose, check the usable capacity, how much attention your recipes need and which parts require cleaning. No programme can replace preparing the meal.
If you prepare dinner while juggling other activities, a programme and timer can mean less time monitoring the cooking. Bear in mind, though, that your dishes may still need preparation, occasional stirring and cleaning afterwards.
For family meals or leftovers, compare the amount your recipes can actually cook rather than relying on the capacity printed on the bowl. UFC-Que Choisir gives the example of a 6 L Cookeo bowl with a maximum cooking capacity of 4 L.
Cooking in a single bowl may suit you, but also check the lid, seals, accessories and the appliance’s dimensions. Check dishwasher compatibility for each part individually.
Start with the dishes you make and the times when you need to be able to step away. A slow cooker is mainly for slow cooking; a multicooker brings together different functions, depending on the model, while an electric pressure cooker adds the specific requirements of pressure cooking. Saucepans and the oven are still an option if you prefer to control the cooking directly or don’t want another appliance.
| Feature | What to check before buying | What consumers are looking for |
|---|---|---|
| Monitoring the cooking | Programmes to suit your dishes, time and temperature settings, and a keep-warm function if you need one. | When I need to get on with something else, I want the appliance to manage the cooking once it’s started, without assuming it will prepare the ingredients for me. Around 33% of consumers prioritise this level of independence. |
| Capacity for your portions | Nominal capacity, filling marks and the permitted capacity for the recipes you plan to make. | If I’m cooking several portions at once, I need to know how much will actually fit in the bowl. Usable capacity comes first for around 27% of consumers. |
| Pressure cooking | Available functions, minimum liquid requirement, and the model’s filling and pressure-release instructions. | If my dishes are suitable for pressure cooking, I’m happy to follow the instructions for using this function. Around 20% of consumers prioritise it. |
| Cleaning and storage space | The appliance’s dimensions and cleaning instructions for the bowl, lid and accessories. | When space is limited and the washing-up is piling up after a meal, I want to know which parts need storing and washing. It’s the top priority for around 20% of consumers. |
Filling limits and recipe requirements can reduce the usable capacity. UFC-Que Choisir gives the example of a 6 L Cookeo bowl that can hold a maximum of 4 L for cooking.
Compare the stated capacity with the fill marks and limits in the manual for the dishes you usually make.
You’ll still need to prepare the ingredients, choose a suitable setting and carry out any steps required by the recipe.
Read the instructions for a few dishes you often make before deciding which programmes and accessories you need.
Filling, liquid levels and pressure release all need particular care. Pressure cooking isn’t the same as ordinary slow cooking.
Read the manual for your chosen model and make sure you understand how to close it, release the pressure and maintain the safety components before use.
A non-stick or dishwasher-safe bowl doesn’t tell you how to clean the lid, seals and accessories.
Check which parts can be removed and which need to be cleaned by hand. For example, Moulinex says the inside of the lid on the Cookeo+ Connect should be wiped clean.
The Cookeo range includes guided electric multicookers, with functions and capacity varying by model.
The brand offers pressure cookers as well as multifunction cookers designed for rice or slow cooking.
According to Russell Hobbs, the Good To Go 28270-56 combines slow cooking, steaming, rice cooking and keep-warm functions.
These appliances offer pressure cooking and programmable functions. Compare their stated capacities with the filling limits for your recipes. Their inclusion here doesn’t mean a pressure cooker will suit you better than a slow cooker or your saucepans.
Image unavailable
Worth considering if you’re looking for a pressure cooker advertised for up to four portions. This 7-in-1 multicooker has a 3.8 L bowl. Check the permitted fill level for your recipes and follow the pressure-release instructions.
Image unavailable
Compare this model if you prepare several portions and want a choice of presets. The model name indicates a 5.7 L bowl, seven functions and four customisable presets. Check the manual for usable capacity and pressure-cooking instructions.
Image unavailable
Worth considering if you’re looking for these functions in one appliance. The stated capacity is 6 L. Check the permitted capacity for your dishes, how much space the components need, and the cleaning and pressure-cooking instructions.
Image unavailable
Compare this model if you’re considering a large-capacity bowl for cooking several portions. It’s listed as having an 8 L capacity, 1 200 W of power and 12 preset menus. Check the permitted quantity for each recipe, the dimensions and how to clean the lid.
Image unavailable
Worth considering if programmability and a choice of pressure settings matter for your meals. The model name lists nine menus, two pressure settings and a 24-hour timer. Check the manual for fill limits, the keep-warm function if you need it, and cleaning requirements.
No. Once started, a programme can manage the heat and cooking time, but you’ll still need to prepare the ingredients, choose a suitable setting and follow the recipe steps. Check the manual for the model’s quantities and operating instructions, too.
No. UFC-Que Choisir says that a 6 L Cookeo bowl may have a maximum cooking capacity of 4 L. Check the fill marks and the limits for your recipe and the model you’re considering.
Follow your appliance’s manual for the minimum amount of liquid, fill levels, closing the lid and releasing the pressure. Pay particular attention to instructions for foods that expand or froth, and don’t open the appliance until the pressure has been released as directed.
Check the bowl, lid, seals and accessories individually: dishwasher compatibility may apply to only some parts. The manual will also tell you which components need to be removed or washed by hand.