Best Multi Cookers
- by Dino Paccino
- Last Updated: June 28, 2023
The best multi-cookers are denoted by key features and characteristics: price, size, ease of use, durability, and overall performance. They can be used for prolonged periods without overheating or power failures, which can also be judged by the food quality they produce.
Some of the most common use cases for multi cookers include the preparation of dishes such as rice, warming up food, steaming vegetables, roasting, and more. The core function of a multi cooker is its ability to cook a range of dishes with little no human intervention.
Buying top-rated multi-cookers is one of the best ways to get a worthwhile appliance. Leaning on multi-cooker reviews from other users helps avoid choosing the wrong product. They will express what they like and any pitfalls associated with a multi cooker. It is essential to compare use cases when reading reviews. For instance, if searching for the best home multi-cooker, you would not want to base your decision on a review from someone who used it in a commercial setting.
Looking at reliable brands such as Ninja, Tefal, Russell Hobbs, Instant Pot, Cuisinart, and Crock-Pot is a great way to narrow the selection process.
This article will explore some top multi cooker. It will look at their main features and functions.
Our Top Multi Cooker Picks
- 1. Best Overall - Wolf Gourmet 6-in-1
- 2. Best Portable - Toshiba Low Carb
- 3. Best Pressure - Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1
- 4. Best Dishwasher Safe - Cuisinart MSC-800
- 5. Best Voice Control - CUCKOO CMC-QAB501SB
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1. Cuisinart MSC-800 Cook Central 4-in-1 Multi-Cooker
- 6.62 liters capacity
- Dishwasher safe
- 1350 Watts
The Cuisinart MSC-800 boasts four programmable functions. These include slow cooking, roasting, browning, and steaming. It has a reasonably large LCD that makes it easy for users to keep track of the functions. The screen is divided into two sections. One section shows the timer, while the other shows the temperature. These two values can be adjusted with the press of a button.
Inside the device is a removable non-stick cast-iron pot. It features a teflon coating that makes it easy to clean. It is also dishwasher safe. The reversible roasting or steaming rack is a welcome addition. The retractable power cord makes it easy for the multi-cooker to be packed away when not in use. Users can engage the slow cooking functions for up to 24-hours. Roasting can run for up to 6 hours at temperatures between 250 degrees F, and 450 degrees F. Temperatures of up to 500 degrees F can be used for browning. There are two sets of handles on this device ice. One lifts the whole cooker while the other is useful for lifting just the cooking pot.
Pros
- Fairly easy to clean
- Provides accurate temperature control
- Easy to program
- Excellent browning function
Cons
- May overcook if settings are not well monitored
- Plastic handles could be more durable
2. Wolf Gourmet Programmable 6-in-1 Multi Cooker with Temperature Probe
- 220 Volts
- 6.6 Liters Capacity
- Three programmable setting
The inside is a 7 quarts stainless steel vessel that can be removed for cleaning. It features an interactive LCD panel for easy control and monitoring of the multicooker. It displays time and temperature. The sous vide rack enhances food sublimation to cook evenly.
The Wolf Gourmet WGSC120SR boasts a stainless steel finish. There are six cooking modes to choose from. These include three slow cook modes for making rice, sauté, and sous vide. Users can adjust the manual slow cooking temperature between low, medium, and high. This can be over a 24 hour period, ideal for slow-cooked meals. Users can also program the multi cooker for meals to be ready at a set mealtime. The temperature probe must be inserted into the appliance to monitor things.
Pros
- Easy to clean
- Provides great value for money
- Has a durable stainless steel pot
- Interactive and easy to use
Cons
- Low heat setting is hotter than expected
- Is fairly bulky
3. Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker
- Free Instant Pot App
- 13 built-in presets
- 1200 watts
There are ten safety features on this electric pressure cooker. The safe locking lid reduces the chances of spillage. It complements the overheating protection feature on this multi-cooker. The size of the appliances means it can cook for up to 6 people. This makes it ideal for cooking in batches or meal prepping.
The Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker features a wide range of capabilities, including slow cook, rice cooker, and yogurt making. There are 13 preset programs to choose from. In the center of the device is an LCD screen. It is surrounded by various buttons, which facilitate one-touch controls. A light indicates the program in use. Setting it up takes little time. Cleaning up is reasonably straightforward, thanks to fingerprint-resistant surfaces. The inner pot can be removed from the base for cleaning. It is also dishwasher safe.
Pros
- Fast cooking times
- Easy to use one-touch control
- Energy efficient
- Easy to clean
- Quieter than similar appliances
Cons
- A bit of a learning curve
- Pricy accessories
4. CUCKOO CMC-QAB501SB
- Scratch-resistant inner pot
- 1100 watts
- 5 Quarts capacity
A water drain system clears out waste to reduce the build-up of bacteria. It also makes it easier to clean up the appliance. This is aided by the auto steam clean function, which uses steam cleaning to manage odor. Users can also detach the inner lid for cleaning. The large control panel and LCD make it easy to use the device.
The CMC-QAB501SB features a smart cooking algorithm. It adjusts pressure and temperatures as you cook. This creates an optimal cooking environment for the specific dish. There are eight presets to choose from, including soup, porridge, steaming, and warming. The auto steam release feature ensures user safety by not letting pressure build up inside the appliance. Heat-resistant handles have been added to the inner pot to make it safe to pick up.
Pros
- Elegant design
- Has self-cleaning features
- Has a voice guide & control
- Reasonably priced
Cons
- Voice guide could do with more languages
- Does not have a clock timer
5. Ninja FD401 Foodi 12-in-1 Deluxe XL
- 1760 watts
- Reversible Rack
- 8 Quarts capacity
The FD401 has a generous 8-quart ceramic-coated pot with 5-quarts of cooking space. This is enough room to contain up to 7lb of food. The inside of the basket is nonstick and dishwasher safe. There are 12 programmable cooking presets to choose from. They include sous vide, air frying, and dehydrating. The control panel features an LCD screen, buttons, and a rotating control dial.
The Ninja FD401 Foodi is a multi-cooker that is also effective at crisping. It boasts tender-crisp technology, which is effective at cooking in little time. The pressure lid helps to contain and tenderize ingredients. There is a deluxe reversible rack that slides into the cooking basket. This fixture has two cooking layers to maximize the appliance’s capacity without restricting airflow. The top layer can be removed when steaming or reversed for broiling.
Pros
- Easy to handwash
- Comes with a 45 recipe cookbook
- Has two racks to maximize cooking space
- Wide range of features
- Easy to program
Cons
- High power consumption
- Lid does not fully detach
6. Crock-Pot 6-Quart 5-in-1 Multi-Cooker
- 1500 watts
- 6 Quarts capacity
- Ceramic material
The ceramic inner pot is relatively easy to clean. Its handles are heat resistant, making it safe to lift from its base. Besides the screen, users can also keep an eye on things through the glass lid.
The Crock-Pot 6-Quart 5-in-1 Multi-Cooker boasts a dual position rack that can be used for both roasting and steaming. It can be used for multistep cooking, making it ideal for meal prep. Other uses include sautés, slow cooking, roasting, and baking. Temperatures for baking range between 150°F – 450°F. It is easy to reposition for each use. The control panel is an LCD screen flanked by programmed buttons. Thanks to the one-touch system, switching from one program to another is straightforward.
Pros
- Fairly large cooking pot
- Has several cooking options
- Reasonably lightweight
- Buttons are easy to use
- Good temperature range
Cons
- Ceramic coating may scratch when scrub cleaning
- Not ideal for a countertop.
7. KitchenAid KMC4241SS Multi-Cooker
- 4 Quart capacity
- One year hassle-free warranty
- Over ten programmable settings
The stainless steel finish gives it a polished finish. There are ten cooking programs to choose from. This appliance benefits from an even heat distribution for consistent results. The 4-quart cooking pot has a scratch-resistant coating. It also has a pouring spout, ideal for soup and related dishes. The dual steam basket and roasting rack make it a versatile multi cooker.
The KitchenAid KMC4241SS features a smaller display than other multicookers on our list. This LCD shows the program name above the temperature. Several navigational buttons surround these two screens. The selection process is more intuitive than others, making for a minimalistic control panel. It facilitates accurate temperature regulation. Food can also be kept warm for up to 24 hours.
Pros
- Intuitive display
- Warms up for up to 24 hours
- The spout is practical for pouring
- Offers great versatility
- Compatible with the KitchenAid Stir Tower KitchenAid Stir Tower
Cons
- Timer requires some getting used to
- Programming could be made more accessible.
8. COMFEE' Rice Cooker, Slow Cooker, Steamer, Stewpot, Saute All in One
- BPA-free food-grade material
- 24-Hour Delay Timer
The digital control panel features a wide range of buttons for ease of use. Temperature can be customized and controlled with the click of a button.
The MB-M25 is a multifunction multi cooker with 12 cooking programs. It has a 5.2Qt capacity. The digital panel and LCD make it easy to pick programs to use. These can be delayed for up to 24 hours to enable flexible meal planning. Users can set these to complete at desired times. The cool-touch handle makes it safe to lift the pot out of the base. Having a non-stick coating makes it easy to clean after use. The stainless steel exterior can be wiped clean. This is a dishwasher-safe appliance.
Pros
- Foolproof ease of use
- Reasonably priced
- Comes with additional utensils
- Intuitive control panel
- Lightweight appliance
Cons
- Does not have a pressure cooking feature
- Instructions are worthless
9. Toshiba Low Carb Digital Programmable Multi-functional Rice Cooker
- Carb-Removing Basket
- 1130 watts
- Delay Timer
The display is a large LED smart digital one. It is set to blend in with the color of the appliance without being challenging to see. This cooker has a delay timer of up to 24 hours. The low-carb basket drains digestive starch, leaving a leaner pot of rice.
The Low Carb Digital boasts a 24-hour delay timer. There are eight preprogrammed settings, including quinoa, stew, steam, and oatmeal. The advanced fuzzy logic automates temperature and heating to produce the best rice. Induction heating allows even heat distribution for a fluffier output. The smart digital panel is located above the appliance. There are a handful of buttons for a clean-looking interface.
Pros
- Comes with a one-year warranty cover
- Has a non-stick inner pot
- Minimalist interface
- Easy to use
- Makes low carb rice
Cons
- May have a plastic odor
- Cord cannot be detached from the appliance
10. De'Longhi Livenza 7-in-1 Multi-Cooker
- 6 Quarts capacity
- Dishwasher Safe
Once cooking is completed, the multi-cooker switches automatically to keep warm. It has a self-regulating system. The pots, pans, steam rack, and lid can be pulled apart for easy cleaning.
The Livenza 7-in-1 Multi-Cooker features a large display flanked by two dials. On the right are one that controls time, temperature, and cup size. The one on the left can be used to select program presets, including steaming and baking. Programming can be set within a 24-hour window. The screen displays both time and temperature, with temperature underneath time. Both the lid’s handle and the ones on the pot are heat-resistant for safety when lifting.
Pros
- Comes with a 50 recipe app
- Has a one year warranty
- Provides good value for money
- Precise temperature control
- Reasonably lightweight
Cons
- The cookpot can be too hot to handle
- Could be more recipes in the app
11. Hamilton Beach (37571) Digital MultiCooker
- 4.5 Quarts capacity
- Non stick pot
This multi-cooker has a rinsing basket that can get rid of starch or wash vegetables before steaming. The basket is pretty heat tolerant, making it ideal for steaming. The heat-resistant handle makes it easy to open the multi cooker when hot. The inner cooking basket does not have the same features.
The Hamilton Beach (37571) features 14 pre-programmed settings, including a keep warm and a delayed start function. The small LCD screen is placed just above a wide range of buttons linked to the programs. Users can set it up to 15 hours in advance. This can be great for slow cooking or soup making.
Once done cooking, the non-stick basket is easy to handwash or clean up in the dishwasher.
Pros
- Is dishwasher safe
- Comes with a rinsing basket
- Presets are easy to use
- Affordable appliance
Cons
- Stay warm feature may burn food if left too long
- Takes up a lot of space
12. T-fal RK705851
- Ten pre-set programs
- 24-hour delay start
- Nonstick inner pot
This multi-cooker has various accessories, including spoons, a steam basket, and a measuring cup. The swinging handle allows for safe handling. This makes it easy to move the appliance from one place to another safely.
The T-fal RK705851 boasts ten pre-set programs, including oatmeal and yogurt. It features the fuzzy logic technology for a fluffy finish when making rice. The small digital panel allows users to choose the presets. There is also a delayed start function for up to 24 hours. It has a micro pressure valve to facilitate flavor retention when cooking. The ceramic pot is ideal for heat retention. It is also dishwasher safe.
Pros
- Good value for money
- It is easy to clean up
- Relatively large cooking capacity
- Has a wide range of accessories
- Comes with 26 recipes
Cons
- Keep warm function can be difficult to control
- The ring on the lid may smell of plastic when cooking
What are the best types of multi-cookers?
There are several types of multicookers to choose from. Most of them can be categorized as follows:
- Portable multi-cooker: Portable multi-cookers are the smallest type on the market. Most of them are mainly for making rice. They do not hold a lot of ingredients.
- Pressure cooker: Pressure cookers are airtight multi-cookers. They are usually made with stainless steel or ceramic materials. They tend to be faster at cooking than other types of multicookers. This is due to pressure being contained around the food.
- Multi-use cooker: Multi-use multi-cookers are generalists. They have a variety of uses, including slow cooking, steaming, pressure cooking, or broiling.
- Slow multi-cooker: Slow multi-cookers have similar functionality to a slow cooker. They cook at a slower rate than other appliances.
What are the best portable multi-cookers?
The Toshiba Low Carb Digital Programmable Multi-functional Rice Cooker and TLOG Mini Rice Cooker 2 Cups Uncooked are two of the best portable multi-cookers. Both appliances feature a swinging handle that makes them easy to carry. They also have a wide range of programmable functions.https://www.amazon.com/Toshiba-Programmable-Multi-functional-Uncooked-One-Touch/dp/B091TLKF2H/?tag=kitcheninfini-20
What are the best pressure multi-cookers?
The CUCKOO CMC-QSB501S and Ninja OP401 Foodi XL TenderCrisp Pressure Multi Cooker are the best pressure multi-cookers on the market. They both feature large LCD screens and easy to use one button controls. The CUCKOO CMC-QSB501S is a 5 Quarts capacity pressure multi-cooker with a smart voice guide and 14 safety features. The Ninja OP401 Foodi XL TenderCrisp Pressure Multi-Cooker has an 8-quart capacity. It features a ceramic-coated non-stick cooking pot. It also has 14 safety features.
What are the best multi-use multi-cooker?
The Crock-Pot 8-Quart Multi-Use XL Express Crock Programmable Slow Cooker, Fissler FISS-03520006001 Pot, and COMFEE’ 6 Quart Pressure Cooker 12-in-1 are some of the best multi-use multicookers on the market. The Crock-Pot 8-Quart Multi-Use multi cooker allows manual pressure adjustments. It has an airtight locking lid. The Fissler FISS-03520006001 features a control panel with 18 one-touch cooking programs. It also has a pressure seal system and safety lock. The COMFEE’ 6 Quart Pressure Cooker 12-in-1 has a pressure limiting valve. This allows users to automate pressure and temperature control.
What are the best slow multi-cookers?
The Instant Pot Aura 10-in-1 Multicooker Slow Cooker, Cuisinart MSC-800 Cook Central 4-in-1 Multi-Cooker, and Wolf Gourmet Programmable 6-in-1 Multi Cooker are three of the best slow multi-cookers. The Instant Pot Aura 10-in-1 Multicooker Slow Cooker features ten innovative preset programs. It has a 24-hour delay timer. The Cuisinart MSC-800 Cook Central 4-in-1 Multi-Cooker features a nonstick cast-aluminum cooking pot with teflon coating. It can slow cook on high or low temperatures. Users can also set it to simmer or warm food for 24 hours. The Wolf Gourmet Programmable 6-in-1 Multi Cooker features a large screen and a control knob. It can also be programmed to slow cook and have food ready for a set mealtime.
What functionality should you expect from a multi-cooker?
A person can expect a good range of useful presets, ease of use, and accurate temperature control from their multi cooker. Useful presets will make it easy for users to choose one best suited to what they are making. This also ties into ease of use. A good multi-cooker should not be difficult to control. The user interface must be intuitive without being overwhelming. Accurate temperature control assures users that their food is prepared at the right temperatures for the best possible taste. This also helps prevent burning the food when cooking.
What should you know before buying a multi-cooker?
There are various things that users should look at before buying a multi-cooker. One of the most important things to consider is the material that it is made of. This will influence some of its functionality. For instance, a multi-cooker with a ceramic pot will have good heat retention properties. It would also be easy to clean. Other materials such as coatings are liable to scratching when cleaning.
The overall price of the multi-cooker should also be considered. This would involve comparing appliances with similar features to find one with the best value for money. The priciest ones are not necessarily the best.
Heat range is worth looking at. This is even more important when working with recipes that require certain temperatures to be maintained. It is also worth considering how accurate the temperature adjustments can be. This may involve looking at the possible increments in temperature when using the buttons or knobs provided.
Several conditions can be hidden from users. One should look at the placement of handles and how they are built to handle heat. Poor handle placement on some appliances may lead to melting handles. It may also present a hazard when handling the multi-cooker.
How do you intend to use the multi-cooker? Usage style and cases need to be matched to the device before purchasing it. This may involve checking that the appliance has sufficient cooking space, the right presets, and other required functionalities for the intended use case.
The main safety features to look out for include the handles’ placement and heat resistance, the pressure release mechanism, and overheating prevention mechanisms.
Size plays a massive role when choosing a multi-cooker. It determines whether it can be placed on a countertop or elsewhere. It also plays a role in cooking that the appliance can carry out. Large multi-cookers can prepare meals for a bigger group of people than smaller ones. They are ideal for meal prep and cooking large things such as a whole chicken.
Small multi cookers are great for their portability. One can easily pack them away when they are not in use.
One of the most common issues with some multi-cookers is the smell of burning plastic or rubber on initial use. In most cases, this smell will fade away with use. This can be due to the user not having removed all packaging. It can also be down to manufacturing oversights.
What is the average price range for the best multi-cookers?
Multi-cookers have a price range of between $50-$2000. They can go slightly lower or higher than that, depending on functionality. Multi-cookers with ceramic pots tend to be more expensive than other types. The material is synonymous with durability and consistent heat distribution when cooking.
The size of a multi cooker influences the price range. A large ceramic multi-cooker will cost more than a similar product that is smaller. On the other hand, a large coated multi-cooker may cost less than a smaller ceramic one.
What is the main difference between a multi-cooker and an instant pot?
The main difference between a multi-cooker and an instant pot is what they are. A multi-cooker is an appliance that can be used to cook various dishes at the click of a button. Instant Pot is a kitchenware brand that makes products that include multi-cookers. It is common for people to confuse this as a type of appliance when it isn’t.
What multi-cooker type is considered superior?
Pressure cooker multi cookers are considered to be superior to other types. While they do not have the same number of functions as multi-use cookers, they excel at producing consistently good results in less time. They are usually made of ceramic and stainless steel materials, making them durable.
What are the common mistakes for using a multi-cooker?
While learning to use a multi-cooker, most users have several mistakes in common. One of the main issues is not reading the literature provided with the device. This often leads to unexpected outcomes such as burnt or overcooked food. Most users will assume this to be a machine malfunction when it is human error.
Another mistake that users make is using the wrong presets. It is essential to use the right presets for each dish. Where this is not possible, users are encouraged to test things out until they find one that works.
Finally, users also mistake assuming that all multi-cooker handles are heat resistant. This is a risky assumption to make. Checking the manufacturer’s manual and trying the handles before they are too hot helps avoid injury.
What criteria define the best multi-cooker?
The best multi-cooker is defined by various criteria, including material, price, programmability, presets, functionality, and size. The material determines how well a device will perform and how long it will last. Getting the right appliance at the best possible price is another critical criterion. This should be done without compromising quality or performance.
Programmability influences what input the user can have in automating the multi-cooker’s functionality. A good set of presets would help this to start with.
Functionality considers what the multi-cooker can do. The best multi-cookers are not necessarily the ones that can do the most things. They tend to be the ones that can do a handful of things well.
Size may be a matter of use case. The best multi-cookers are available in various sizes, allowing users to choose the ideal one for themselves.
What type of reviews do the best multi-cookers have?
The most common complaint about all multi-cookers across the board is how confusing their functionality can be. Users often complain that multi-cookers do not do what they are supposed to. This may be in the form of thermoregulation. In some cases, this is down to user error.
Users often complain of the smell of plastic when using their portable multi-cookers. This is usually down to manufacturers using plastic to reduce the product’s weight. Users praise portable multi-cookers for their ease of use.
Pressure cookers are usually praised for how quickly and consistently they cook. They are often criticized for their prices.
Multi-use cookers usually receive great reviews for their extensive range of functions. They are often criticized for not performing well at all these functions, with a handful of them being awful or underwhelming.
Slow multi cookers are usually praised in reviews for their delayed start feature. They are often criticized for inaccurate temperatures. This makes it easier for users to plan their meals.
What are the best multi-cooker brands?
Below are some of the best multi cooker brands on the market:
- KitchenAid
KitchenAid is one of the leading kitchenware brands in the world. They are known for their moderately priced products, including multi cookers.
- Oster
Oster is known for its extensive range of kitchenware. Their products include juicers & blenders, countertop ovens, toasters, and multi-cookers. They are low to medium in the price range.
- Hamilton Beach
Hamilton Beach is known for its budget-friendly kitchen appliances. Their most popular appliance is the blender. They also make other devices such as multi-cookers and food processors.
- Black & Decker
Black&Decker is known for making high-quality, budget-friendly kitchen appliances. They have an extensive range of products.
- Vitamix
Vitamix specializes in high-end blenders. Their products tend to be pricey but durable. They provide good value for money.
How long do the top multi-cookers last?
Top multi-cookers can last up to a decade with moderate use. Those made of ceramic and stainless steel material may last an additional five years if well cared for.
Multi-cookers used in a commercial environment have an average lifespan of between 3-7 years.
Where to buy a multi-cooker?
Customers can buy multi-cookers online or in-store. Here are some of the best places to buy:
Walmart: Average Prices range between $59.00 and $234.00+. Delivers in 2-3 days.
Amazon: Average Prices range between $29.99 and $220.00+. Delivers in 1-2 days.
Best Buy: Average Prices range around $32.00 and $299.99. Delivers in up to 5 days.
Home Depot: Average Price ranges between $40.00 to $500. Delivers in 2 days
Some of them are directly available to buy from their manufacturers.
What are the other best kitchen tools?
This article has covered various multi cookers. There are other kitchen tools that you can use together with your microwave oven. Some of them are:
- Food processors
- Blenders
- Coffee machines
These can be purchased from the same brand or color to complement existing decor.
Why Trust Kitchen Infinity?
Our writers and reviewers thoroughly research every aspect of kitchen appliances or home improvement products so you can make a well-informed decision when investing in these products. We evaluate top quality products from several brands within budget friendly price ranges and contrast consumer reviews, surveys, satisfaction forms, brand performance, and annual appliance rankings. We go to great lengths to ensure that your next buy is worth every penny!
Dino Paccino
Dino is a lifelong writer and home improvement specialist. He enjoys bringing cutting-edge information on home renovation and remodeling to Kitchen Infinity.
