Instant Pot Duo Plus 9-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker
Made by Instant Pot · tested on the Simmer & Set bench
The Instant Pot Duo Plus is a reliable, feature-packed multicooker that simplifies everyday cooking with its intuitive presets and multiple functions.
Hands-on overview
The Instant Pot Duo Plus is a multicooker designed to simplify everyday cooking by combining nine kitchen appliances into one compact countertop unit. It functions as a pressure cooker, slow cooker, rice cooker, yogurt maker, steamer, sauté pan, food warmer, sterilizer, and cake maker, eliminating the need for multiple single-purpose gadgets. Built with a sturdy stainless steel inner pot, this multicooker heats food evenly and resists scratching or staining over years of regular use. Its sealed lid system builds and releases pressure efficiently, cutting cooking times dramatically compared to conventional stovetop methods while retaining more nutrients and flavor in meats, grains, and vegetables.
What sets the Duo Plus apart within the Instant Pot lineup is its refined control panel featuring fifteen customizable smart programs, allowing users to prepare everything from soups and beans to poultry and desserts with a single button press. The addition of an "Altitude Adjust" feature ensures consistent results regardless of elevation, while the improved venting knob and sealing mechanism offer quieter, safer pressure release than earlier Duo models. A sleek, easy-to-read display shows cooking progress and remaining time, and the delay start and keep-warm functions give home cooks flexibility to plan meals around busy schedules. Dishwasher-safe components, including the lid and inner pot, make cleanup straightforward after each use.
Compact yet spacious, the Instant Pot Duo Plus is available in multiple sizing options, typically ranging from three to eight quarts, catering to singles, couples, and larger families alike. Its stainless steel exterior and rounded design fit comfortably on most kitchen counters without overwhelming the space. Beyond convenience, the multicooker emphasizes safety with over ten built-in protective mechanisms, including overheat protection and safety lid lock, giving users peace of mind during pressure cooking. Whether steaming vegetables, slow-braising short ribs, or fermenting homemade yogurt, this multicooker adapts to a wide range of culinary tasks, making it a versatile centerpiece for anyone looking to streamline meal preparation without sacrificing quality or flavor.
Specifications
Figures tagged measured come from our bench; those tagged maker are the manufacturer’s published specification, printed as given.
Pros and cons
What works
- Cooks meals up to 70% faster than conventional methods
- Versatile enough to replace multiple kitchen appliances
- Easy-to-use display with pre-set programs for beginners
- Durable stainless steel pot resists staining and odors
- Quiet steam release compared to older Instant Pot models
- Compact footprint saves counter space
What grates
- Steam release can still be loud during manual venting
- Sealing ring may retain odors from strong-flavored foods
- Learning curve for altitude and time adjustments
- Lid storage can be awkward due to size
- App integration feels unnecessary for basic use
Key features
- 9-in-1 functionality: pressure cook, slow cook, rice cooker, yogurt maker, steamer, sauté, sterilizer, and warmer
- Third-generation microprocessor with 15 customizable Smart Programs
- EasySeal assembly-free steam release valve
- Sterilize function for baby bottles and canning jars
- Stainless steel inner pot, dishwasher safe
- Overheat protection and 10+ safety mechanisms
- Mobile app connectivity for recipes and remote monitoring
Gallery
Verdict
The Instant Pot Duo Plus is a reliable, feature-packed multicooker that simplifies everyday cooking with its intuitive presets and multiple functions. While it has minor quirks like sealing ring odor retention and occasional loud venting, its versatility and consistent performance make it an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced home cooks looking to streamline meal prep.