If you’ve ever wished for one kitchen gadget that could replace half the appliances in your home, the Instant Pot is exactly that. Over the years, Instant Pot has become a household favorite because it’s versatile, efficient, and surprisingly easy to use. Whether you want to pressure cook, slow cook, sauté, steam, or even make yogurt, the Instant Pot does it all in one compact device.
But with so many models available, choosing the right one can be tricky. That’s why we’ve rounded up the three best Instant Pots you can buy in 2025—covering different needs, budgets, and cooking styles.
Why Choose an Instant Pot in 2025?
Instant Pot isn’t just a passing kitchen trend—it has proven to be a game-changer for busy home cooks. Here’s why it continues to dominate in 2025:
- Time-Saving: Pressure cooking cuts traditional cooking times in half (or more).
- Space-Saving: Replaces multiple appliances—like rice cookers, steamers, and slow cookers.
- Healthy Cooking: Retains nutrients while cutting down on excess oils and fats.
- Beginner-Friendly: Pre-programmed settings make cooking foolproof.
- Eco-Friendly: More energy-efficient than ovens and stovetops.
The 3 Best Instant Pots You Can Buy in 2025
1. Instant Pot Duo Plus (Best Overall)
The Duo Plus has long been a crowd favorite, and the 2025 model continues to deliver. It offers just the right balance of affordability, features, and ease of use—making it perfect for most households.
Key Features:
- 9-in-1 functionality (Pressure Cooker, Slow Cooker, Rice Cooker, Steamer, Sauté Pan, Food Warmer, Yogurt Maker, Sous Vide, and Sterilizer)
- Available in multiple sizes (3, 6, and 8 quarts)
- Intuitive LCD display with cooking progress indicators
- 15 customizable smart programs
- Dishwasher-safe inner pot and accessories
Why It’s the Best Overall:
The Duo Plus is a reliable, versatile option for beginners and experienced cooks alike. It covers everything you need without overwhelming you with too many extra features.
👉 Perfect for families, couples, or anyone who wants one device to handle daily cooking tasks with ease.
2. Instant Pot Pro Crisp + Air Fryer (Best Multi-Function Upgrade)
If you’re the kind of cook who wants everything in one appliance, the Pro Crisp + Air Fryer is your dream machine. This powerhouse combines all the cooking features of a standard Instant Pot with the ability to air fry, roast, bake, and dehydrate.
Key Features:
- 11-in-1 functionality, including Air Fryer and Roaster
- Stainless-steel inner pot with handles for easy lifting
- Large, user-friendly touch screen
- Precision temperature control for sous vide cooking
- Comes with both a pressure cooker lid and an air fryer lid
Why It’s the Best Upgrade:
The Pro Crisp + Air Fryer eliminates the need for a separate air fryer, oven, or dehydrator. It’s especially great for people who love crispy textures—think golden fries, roasted chicken, or crunchy veggies—without all the oil.
👉 Perfect for foodies who want more than the basics and don’t mind investing in a premium option.
3. Instant Pot Duo Nova (Best for Beginners)
The Duo Nova is a simplified version of the Duo Plus, designed with first-time Instant Pot users in mind. It’s affordable, easy to operate, and takes the intimidation out of pressure cooking.
Key Features:
- 7-in-1 functionality (Pressure Cooker, Slow Cooker, Rice Cooker, Steamer, Sauté Pan, Food Warmer, Yogurt Maker)
- One-touch control panel with 13 pre-set programs
- Easy-seal lid that automatically seals when closed
- Comes in larger sizes—up to 10 quarts—for big families
- Built-in safety features to prevent accidents
Why It’s the Best for Beginners:
The Duo Nova is user-friendly and budget-friendly, making it ideal for anyone new to Instant Pot cooking. The automatic sealing lid takes away one of the biggest learning curves.
👉 Perfect for individuals, couples, or big families who want stress-free cooking without a steep price tag.
How to Choose the Right Instant Pot for You
When deciding between models, think about:
- Cooking Needs – Do you just want everyday basics, or do you also want air frying, sous vide, and baking?
- Family Size – A 3-quart is perfect for singles, 6-quart works for most families, and 8–10 quarts are best for large households.
- Budget – Basic models like Duo Nova are affordable, while Pro Crisp is an investment.
- Kitchen Space – Multi-function devices save counter space, but larger models take up more storage.
Final Thoughts
Instant Pots have earned their place in modern kitchens, and the 2025 lineup makes cooking even easier, faster, and more versatile. Whether you’re a busy professional, a parent juggling family meals, or someone who just wants to cook healthier without the hassle, there’s an Instant Pot that fits your lifestyle.
- Duo Plus is the best all-around option.
- Pro Crisp + Air Fryer is the best upgrade for multi-function cooking.
- Duo Nova is the best choice for beginners.
Whichever you choose, you’ll be adding a powerhouse to your kitchen that simplifies cooking while expanding your recipe possibilities.