Instant Pot
Recommended 114× on r/BuyItForLife
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6qt 9-in-1 Pressure Cooker Bundle
Meet the Instant Pot 6-Quart Multi-Cooker—your kitchen’s new overachiever. Whether you're a total newbie or just over complicated cooking, this powerhouse bundle does the thinking...
Accu SV800 Sous Vide Immersion Circulator
Accu SV800 Immersion Circulator Sous Vide by Instant Pot is designed for the gourmet who strives to create ‘restaurant quality dishes’ in the comfort of their home. The Accu cooks...
Duo 7-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker
Used item that may show wear from use and/ or minor cosmetic damage but remains in good working condition and functions properly.
RIO 6-Quart 7-in-1 Electric Multi-Cooker
Experience the versatility of the Instant Pot RIO, a pressure multi cooker designed to make meal preparation easier and faster. With 13 different cooking programs, including functi...
RIO Chef Series 7-in-1 Multi-Cooker
The Instant Pot RIO Chef Series is the sleek, modern design from the makers of Americas #1 multi-cooker brand*. It makes cooking delicious meals simple, with 7 cooking functions, a...
Duo Plus Pressure Cooker
Experience culinary versatility with our 9-in-1 Multi-Cooker, a kitchen powerhouse that pressure cooks, slow cooks, sautés, steams, makes rice and yogurt, sterilizes, and warms foo...
Stainless Steel Inner Cooking Pot
Genuine Instant Pot inner cooking pot is stainless steel food grade 304 (18/8), with no chemical coating, 3-ply bottom for even heat distribution. The polished surface makes food s...
8Qt. Stainless Steel Inner Cooking Pot
Upgrade your cooking experience with the Instant Pot Stainless Steel Inner Pot for 8L Models. Expertly designed to fit 8L Instant Pot models, this stainless steel inner pot is a ha...
Vortex Mini Air Fryer
The Instant Pot Vortex Plus offers versatile cooking capabilities with its 3.79-liter capacity, making it a suitable addition to any kitchen. This hot air fryer features Evencrisp...
Duo Crisp + Air Fryer Electric Pressure Cooker
The pressure cooker lid offers 6 wet cooking functions to quickly pressure cook, steam, slow cook, sous vide and warm. The Air Fryer lid offers 5 dry cooking functions to quickly a...
Duo 7-in-1 Mini Electric Pressure Cooker
Dont let its size fool youthe Instant Pot Duo Mini is a small wonder with big results. With 7 cooking functions and 11 smart programs, this little powerhouse makes everything from...
Duo Crisp 8 qt 11-in-1 Air Fryer Electric Pressure Cooker
The pressure cooker lid offers 6 wet cooking functions to quickly pressure cook, steam, slow cook, sous vide and warm. The Air Fryer lid offers 5 dry cooking functions to quickly a...
Why r/BuyItForLife recommends Instant Pot
114 mentions from real owners
- #1Dec 31, 2025
Best air fryer and/or slow cooker
Consider a convection oven with air fry mode and an Instant Pot Pro Plus wifi. You get pressure cook, saute, slow cook, sous vide, canning, etc. all in one.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #2Dec 31, 2025
Best air fryer and/or slow cooker
Ninja dual zone air fryer is solid, still works great after 2 years. instant pot handles slow cooking with delay start. combo units usually suck at one or both functions
View on Redditopen_in_new - #3Dec 31, 2025
Looking for a rice cooker
I make rice in an instant pot. Water to rice is 1 to 1. If you want think pilaf rice add 1/4 cup extra water. Sticky style stray more 1 to 1. I do long grain white at 3 minutes pressure. 10-13 minutes natural release. This is just a preference thing. If you add oil and extra water like above you, you’re gonna get that really light white it doesn’t stick to itself type of rice all fluffy. But the one to one just with water is more the sticky rice. The big deal in the instant pot is not to cook it forever. You can easily do rice in these.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #4Dec 31, 2025
Looking for a rice cooker
We have one of the higher-end Zojirushi rice cookers, as well as an Instant Pot. If you're a college student on a tight budget, go with the Instant Pot. True, it won't make rice as good as the Zojirushi - but the pressure cooking feature will let you turn all sorts of cheap stuff into tasty food quickly. You can also sautee in it and the pot is stainless steel and nearly indestructible so no worries about scratching or teflon. Look at the Rio Mini model - it's small but the pot is nice and wide. If you've already got food prep covered and don't think you'll use the pressure cooker feature much, go with the Zojirushi. The rice they make really is excellent and very obviously better than what you'll get with a cheap pot-with-one-button rice cookers. Do be careful with the pot though and only use really soft things to clean it.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #5Dec 31, 2025
Looking for a rice cooker
I make rice in my Instant Pot pressure cooker. It’s 10 years old and still going strong.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #6Dec 31, 2025
What BIFL products have bought you your time back?
An Instant Pot or a high-end Slow Cooker
View on Redditopen_in_new - #7Dec 29, 2025
Help me choose between two slow cookers (GreenPan vs Ninja) — or should I upgrade?
I loved my slow cooker but when it was time to upgrade I instead got the instant pot duo plus with slow cook function- the reason I got it was so that I can saute/ brown meat & onion & then slow cook in the same container. I've had it for a few months & have not turned on my stove at all, or used the slow cooker function because the pressure cook is so much faster & better! I made an entire roast chicken with onion, carrots & potatoes in less than 20 minutes & it came out perfect! Add an instant pot to your research, you won't be sorry!
View on Redditopen_in_new - #8Dec 22, 2025
What was the best purchase you made this year?
Instant Pot; Ragg wool cardigan from L.L. Bean.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #9Dec 19, 2025
The Best Air Fryers on the Market to Buy? Recommendations?
* Front load Convection oven is the best overall. * 8qt Instant pot with air fry lid if I was in a tight space. . . or had to have "just one" as this machine has changed my life and gets used multiple times a day with extra pots and stuff. Big downside on the air fry is that it is bucket style... so some foods like sandwiches are more difficult to make VS a front loader. I have both and have tried dozens as I'm a bit of a gadget enthusiast, both get used a ton overall, if you go with a front loader, don't get the largest one due to limited heating capacity (1800w). Smaller ones heat faster and mid size is awesome... (one that can lay 4 bread slices flat is about perfect) Go with stainless where possible,
View on Redditopen_in_new - #10Dec 7, 2025
What’s a purchase that’s not fun, not flashy but now you swear by it?
Hand me down InstantPot that I use just for stock/broth, I’ve used it every couple of weeks for ten years. It makes the best stock, using bones is basically free, I can leave the house after turning it on. At some point I will need to replace the rubber seal but it’s held up so well.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #11Dec 6, 2025
What’s a purchase that’s not fun, not flashy but now you swear by it?
I've got an instant pot that I use for rice. Haven't cooked it on the stove in years now. I feel like the texture is better in the IP. My mom has a rice cooker and it's about the same experience. Both are a win because set and forget. If you're doing the same on your stove you're probably already having the same experience as long as you're happy with the texture of the rice
View on Redditopen_in_new - #12Dec 5, 2025
What’s a small upgrade you made that ended up being way more impactful than expected?
Instapot. I received this as a christmas gift a couple of years ago. I thought it would be a gimmick item that would not get much use. I was completely wrong! You can take a frozen piece of meat and cook it in a fraction of the time, it will not be overcooked and it comes out perfectly! I cook everything from chicken broth to molten lava chocolate desserts. Quebec style maple beans, chili, beef and broccoli, coq au vin, Bò Kho, ribs. The list is endless!
View on Redditopen_in_new - #13Dec 3, 2025
What have you used the most at home these two years?
Instant pot, so many great meals quickly. The deli containers you can buy online in different sizes - stackable and all the same lid; great for meal prepping and storage. Cast iron and Dutch oven. Open ear air buds. Quality skin care lotions. Nice pairs of shoes or workout pants. My Skechers slipins are go to lol.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #14Dec 3, 2025
What signs do you look for to tell if something will actually last years?
when the company does poorly because investors realize their product is perfect and there is no bullshit ad-ons that can be made that people will buy. In short - the Instant Pot. It is perfect. Buy one for life. Never replace and never need anything else for slow cooking/pressure cooking/rice cooking.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #15Dec 3, 2025
considering the Toshiba mini rice cooker at $76, but unsure if it’s the right moment
I'll second that an instant pot makes decent rice, and is more versatile for a small apartment kitchen. I use one when visiting my inlaws, since they don't have a dedicated rice cooker. I like my instant pot for dried beans, carnitas, rotisserie chicken stock, chili, etcetc.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #16Dec 2, 2025
considering the Toshiba mini rice cooker at $76, but unsure if it’s the right moment
I think my decision here isn't just about the device... It's the counter space! Technically I already have a instapot (which I highly recommend) it has a rice function too. Apparently can fully cook rice in 6 minutes.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #17Dec 2, 2025
considering the Toshiba mini rice cooker at $76, but unsure if it’s the right moment
I had a rice cooker. Now I have an instant pot. It takes up the same amount of room, but it can do a lot more. I'm a fan of taking up counter space with appliances that can do more than one thing.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #18Dec 2, 2025
What have you used the most at home these two years?
Instant pot. I have small size and a large one and both get used frequently. Still working good after 7 ish years.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #19Dec 1, 2025
Best Quality of life gift ideas under $150
100% disagree. Instapot done right makes the best rice IMHO
View on Redditopen_in_new - #20Dec 1, 2025
What have you used the most at home these two years?
Instant pot - practically a no brainer for anyone to own if you meal prep and want your meat to tenderise faster. Drip coffee maker - everyday use Air purifier - bedside every night helps with dust mite allergies if you got any. Shower Filters / Britta (or equivalent) filters for tap water filtering - depends on where you’re at. Humidifier
View on Redditopen_in_new - #21Dec 1, 2025
What have you used the most at home these two years?
KITCHEN: Vitamix 5200 w/ stainless steel pitcher; instant pot; high- end water filter for drinking water; enameled cast iron pot; stainless electric kettle, stainless or glass mixing bowls; crap tons of mason jars with all types of lids No recs for an automatic drip maker or a specific robot vacuum.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #22Dec 1, 2025
What have you used the most at home these two years?
Yes! You can make so much in the instantpot, we use it for everything from Pho to cochinita pibil to yogurt, incredible
View on Redditopen_in_new - #23Dec 1, 2025
What have you used the most at home these two years?
Ninja Toaster Oven/Airfryer. Instapot. Bunn 10 cup coffee maker. Its water reservoir heats up the water. We buy whole beans and use a burr grinder. It takes very little time and cheap to make a pot of coffee.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #24Dec 1, 2025
Best Quality of life gift ideas under $150
Love my instapot w air fryer and don’t have counter space for a rice cooker on top of that. Anyone made rice in both, curious if it’s THAT much better than a pressure cooker - how would you describe the difference?
View on Redditopen_in_new - #25Nov 8, 2025
Should I buy a basic slow cooker or those 11-in-1 type pressure cooker/slow cooker/air fryer etc.
Thin instant pot is buy it for life as far as I'm concerned. That said, it's a shitty slow cooker. Get both.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #26Nov 8, 2025
Should I buy a basic slow cooker or those 11-in-1 type pressure cooker/slow cooker/air fryer etc.
I'm going to go against the grain and say if you were happy with your slow cooker to just get another slow cooker. Especially if you are a routine oriented person. I have a ninja air fryer multi cooker (that broke, btw) that I only use on air fry mode and occasionally grill mode. If it only air fried it would be fine. I had an instant pot that I only used to pressure cook, and eventually put it in storage because a dutch oven more or less replaced it. Some of these things are probably decently made, but they do have computers so are inherently fallible, plus like the instant pot has a gasket that needs to be replaced every once in a while. PS I used to make yogurt in my instant pot too. That was pretty cool I guess.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #27Nov 8, 2025
Should I buy a basic slow cooker or those 11-in-1 type pressure cooker/slow cooker/air fryer etc.
There is a reason almost nobody used pressure cookers before instant pots, but now pretty much everyone has an instant pot. They have none of the drawbacks of stovetop cookers. Mine is about 10 years old and still in great shape.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #28Nov 8, 2025
Should I buy a basic slow cooker or those 11-in-1 type pressure cooker/slow cooker/air fryer etc.
I have an Instant Pot Pro Crisp 11-in-1. I mostly use it for the pressure cooker, but the other features also work well. I bought it to use during a big kitchen reno and it was perfect. Its a good size but not heavy. The pot itself comes out, like you'd expect, so it isn't super heavy like most slow cookers. I mostly use it for rice and stews -- nothing crazy.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #29Nov 8, 2025
Should I buy a basic slow cooker or those 11-in-1 type pressure cooker/slow cooker/air fryer etc.
They seem gimmicky and I was sceptical but I did eventually get an Instant Pot and they're great. Had it for years now and still working perfectly. I mostly use it as a pressure cooker, occasionally as a slow cooker, but the cool thing is the saute function. You quite often need to fry some bits before they go in the slow cooker and being able to do that in the cooker itself and then just throw in the sauce just makes life easier.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #30Nov 8, 2025
Should I buy a basic slow cooker or those 11-in-1 type pressure cooker/slow cooker/air fryer etc.
Personally I would go with a pressure cooker. They can pretty much all slow cook. I would also look for the ability to set a specific temperature, some higher end models have this. Otherwise, InstantPots are pretty widely used and loved.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #31Nov 3, 2025
Looking to buy a popcorn popping machine. I really like the air popped ones but I've broken 2 in the last 5 years. As a movie lover it's time to invest in something more long term.
Pressure cooker works very well, Instant Pot too. You have to attend it--once popping slows vent and turn off heat.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #32Nov 3, 2025
What’s a purchase that’s not fun, not flashy but now you swear by it?
It’s pretty much mostly what I use my Instant Pot for these days. Consistent rice cooking, and keeps it warm. I’d only say a nice rice cooker is easier, but once you get the right the right recipe down for the type of rice it’s pretty easy.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #33Nov 3, 2025
Best slow cooker with higher than high mode?
You're talking about an instant pot
View on Redditopen_in_new - #34Nov 3, 2025
Best slow cooker with higher than high mode?
A multicooker such as Instapot brand, is meant to be cooked in, simmer, boil, brown, as well as putting on the lid, slow cooker style, and can run pressurized, mine goes to 11. You go from prep to cook to finish and serve, all in one.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #35Oct 5, 2025
What is the best kitchen gadget under $100 that you own?
Thermapen, good knife, scale, vacuum sealer, Sous vide, Instant pot, all clad saucier. Take your pick.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #36Oct 4, 2025
What is the best kitchen gadget under $100 that you own?
My instant pot
View on Redditopen_in_new - #37Oct 4, 2025
What is the best kitchen gadget under $100 that you own?
Instant pot, it’s very versatile and I love it for cooking beans, stews… everything turns out to be super flavorful.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #38Oct 3, 2025
What is the best kitchen gadget under $100 that you own?
Instant Pot. It was well under $100 when I bought it five years ago.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #39Oct 3, 2025
What is the best kitchen gadget under $100 that you own?
3qt instant pot. I use it every day(often along with an 8qt). I might only use the pressure feature once a week for chicken. For browning hamburger and simmering small to medium dishes, it is the perfect size and temperature. Because the simmer feature lasts 30 min, I have gotten good at timing around this and having very predictable cooking times. I mostly use the 8qt to boil pasta.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #40Oct 3, 2025
What is the best kitchen gadget under $100 that you own?
Instant Pot but the one with Airfryer 😬 £150
View on Redditopen_in_new - #41Oct 3, 2025
Which of these rice cookers is the best in terms of quality vs price?
Instantpot
View on Redditopen_in_new - #42Oct 2, 2025
If you had $300 for your kitchen, what would you buy that lasts?
An Instant Pot Duo Crisp or Pro Crisp (Pressure cooker + air fryer). The amount of hands off dishes you can make is unmatched; and because it's so popular, there's tons of recipes / books . Obv it won't last as long as a set of pans, so depends on your definition of "lasts."
View on Redditopen_in_new - #43Oct 2, 2025
Slow Cooker recommendations
I cook beans or rice in my instant pot every fucking day; that little shit has been the best small appliance purchase ever
View on Redditopen_in_new - #44Oct 1, 2025
Slow Cooker recommendations
I have fully moved into the Instant Pot camp. It slow cooks just as well as the old ceramic one I had, only I can do other things with it too. I pressure cook all beans and rice + other meals, so having it all in one device makes my minimalist self very happy.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #45Sep 5, 2025
What's a purchase under $50 that has genuinely improved your daily routine?
InstantPot*
View on Redditopen_in_new - #46Sep 1, 2025
Thought I Found a worthy bifl slow cooker. Now I have to test it for lead 🤣🙃
I'd test for this before I bothered with the lead test. My slow cooker still produced "cooked" food but when I checked the temperature, it was trying to kill me. My Buy It For Whatever Life I Can Get is an Instant Pot with a extra non-stick pot and a glass lid. Works as well as any cheap or fancy slow cooker I ever had.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #47Sep 1, 2025
Thought I Found a worthy bifl slow cooker. Now I have to test it for lead 🤣🙃
Just get an instant pot.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #48Aug 7, 2025
What is the best non teflon rice cooker?
Tatung is legit super durable and no nonstick coating to worry about. Instant Pot is also a solid option if you want more versatility and stainless steel
View on Redditopen_in_new - #49Aug 7, 2025
What is the best non teflon rice cooker?
They are much more BIFL than a rice cooker with a teflon coated pot. I have an Instant Pot that is over a decade old and is still going strong. I've only had to replace the silicone ring, and these are dirt cheap to get.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #50Aug 7, 2025
Looking to replace every single item we own
Cookware - [Heckles Capri Granitium skillets](https://www.costco.ca/henckels-capri-granitium-skillets%2c-3-piece.product.4000097206.html?langId=-24&province=AB&sh=true&nf=true) Costco. As indestructible as I could find for a mostly non stick pan - Instant pot - [Kitchenaid mixer](https://www.costco.ca/.product.4000104696.html?province=AB&langId=-24&preselect=colour:red&COSTID=iosapp_25.7.5&TRACKING=NO&sh=true&nf=true) Costco - [Kenmore Immersion Mixer](https://www.costco.ca/.product.4000240918.html?langId=-24&province=AB&COSTID=iosapp_25.7.5&TRACKING=NO&sh=true&nf=true) Costco. - Le Creuset mugs (sometimes at Costco) - Bodum double wall glasses (Zwilling is good too) - Brita water filter jug (still going 13 years later if cleaned properly) Beds - [Berkeley Ergonomics Matresses](https://berkeleyergo.com/?srsltid=AfmBOopev7Y-NptDlztyj7ZpFYnythozP7BXvZ5RSaTjf11U_S1v4K09) Spent 2 years hunting down the optimal mattress to maximize our sleep, best bed we’ve ever tried.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #51Aug 7, 2025
What is the best non teflon rice cooker?
Some instant pots have a rice function and it works perfectly. I use a 1:1 ratio and the rice function. No need to do the natural release step.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #52Aug 6, 2025
What is the best non teflon rice cooker?
Look up Instant Pot. Don’t buy rice cookers with Teflon coatings - they never last long
View on Redditopen_in_new - #53Aug 6, 2025
What is the best non teflon rice cooker?
ive been using my 3 qt instantpot for 7 years. i live in a semi so it has bounced around alot. when go home i transport it. i have a stainless stovetop pressure cooker at home that would last forever if maintained
View on Redditopen_in_new - #54Aug 6, 2025
What is the best non teflon rice cooker?
I can vouch for instant pots. I am an actual Asian cook and I take rice seriously. Cooking straight in the pot is a bit finnicky, I found the pot-in-pot method to be much more consistent and has some room for error. However I disliked my instant pot, I think I got a defective one. It keeps making clicking sounds when heating up which annoyed me.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #55Aug 6, 2025
What is the best non teflon rice cooker?
The Instant Pot is slept on as a rice cooker. You do have to follow the process *exactly*, which will probably actually be a bonus for your BIL. The pot is stainless steel so it won't flake off into your food. It's actually really easy: 1. Wash rice, drain thoroughly. 2. Add rice and water in *exactly* a 1:1 ratio. 3. Cook for 4 minutes on high pressure. 4. Let the pressure release naturally, for at least 15 minutes.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #56Aug 6, 2025
What is the best non teflon rice cooker?
Aroma makes a rice cooker with a stainless steel pot that’s inexpensive and available on the Walmart website, though not sure it’s really BIFL. Instant pots can make rice and have a stainless steel pot. The only downside to stainless steel is that the rice is likely to stick
View on Redditopen_in_new - #57Aug 6, 2025
What is the best non teflon rice cooker?
An instant pot would work. I've had mine for a decade now no problems and the inside is stainless steel.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #58Jul 10, 2025
Is there a best handheld milk frother for oat milk?
Golde superwhisk has blown other handhelds that we have tried out of the water. We also have the Instant magic froth, not hand held but a fairly compact package overall and gives you a bit more frothing power. However, we almost always use the handheld one.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #59Jul 9, 2025
Important Kitchen Essentials?
Crockpot. Instant Pot. Air fryer.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #60Jul 7, 2025
Going to university for 5+ years – what are the best affordable BIFL items I should invest in?
\- An electric pressure cooker: makes rice, bone broth, pulled meat, steamed veggies. Even yogurt. I love my "instant pot" and have had it for a decade now. best purchase during my college years. \- a wide stainless steel griddle pan with a lid. versatile and can be used for everything: grilling chicken breasts; making pasta, stir fry; or stew. Also: \- A good mattress is undeniably one of the most important investments you should make. \- i have a great robot vacuum that saved me a lot of time and effort. \- A dozen of glass food containers and mason jars for meal prepping. \- an electric tooth brush; and if you are a woman: \- an electric epilator for hair removal. Quick and saved hundreds of dollars in waxing services until i have gotten laser hair removal later in life.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #61Jul 7, 2025
Crock Pot, Instant Pot, Pressure cooker
Also, OP, I see instant pots at the thrift store every time I go. Seems like everyone was getting one for xmas a few years ago whether they wanted/had one or not. Save some $ (if you’re just trying it out) by getting a used one first. It’ll almost certainly be in perfect shape, donated bc someone wanted to free up cabinet space.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #62Jul 7, 2025
Crock Pot, Instant Pot, Pressure cooker
I'd say Inatant Pot. I've had mine for 6 years now, and before that used my parents for several more (and they still have theirs). They're fantastic. Do note that you can't take slow cooker recipes exactly to the instant pot and get the same results, but you can often find instant pot specific recipes for slow cooking. Qll in all, the instant pot is a 7-8/10 slow cooker, a 9/10 pressure cooker, an 8/10 rice cooker, and so much more. The space and hassle you save by only having one appliance is huge. And, IF you end up actually having use for an individual appliance outside the instant pot, IMO the easiest way to learn that is to have the IP, and if you are doing slow cooker recipes 3x/week for 6 straight weeks with no signs of stopping, then maybe you need a slow cooker. But no reason to take the space if you don't need it.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #63Jul 7, 2025
Crock Pot, Instant Pot, Pressure cooker
Instant Pot, 100%. The pot I currently have is a 6 quart, which is ample for either two people or just me for meal prep. It's probably... ten years old now? I literally use it multiple times a week, and it's great. You can usually find the basic, "original" model for under $100 if you keep an eye on sales and such. I'm about to move internationally and can't take the OG Instan Pot with me, and a replacement is on my list of immediate purchases on arrival. The *only* reason I might tell someone to go with a slow cooker over an Instant Pot is if you're really big into cooking things low and slow over the course of the day. Instant Pot can also function as a slow cooker, but I've heard anecdotally that the slow cook function isn't *quite* as good as the one on, say, a Crock Pot. But I think that's an edge case, and for most people, the Instant Pot is far and away the better buy for something like this. For my use cases, I could get by with an Instant Pot, an air fryer, and a food processor and need basically no other appliances at all.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #64Jul 7, 2025
Crock Pot, Instant Pot, Pressure cooker
I would go instant pot myself. I used to have a slow cooker and putting ingredients in before work was a slog (I would forget). A lot of things come out kind of runny as well. Instant pot is like a slow cooker done fast. You can put the same stuff in after work and it does 4 hours cooking in one hour.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #65Jul 7, 2025
Crock Pot, Instant Pot, Pressure cooker
I have a crock pot for all day things, and a stainless pressure cooker for fast meals. The stovetop pressure cooker is about twice as fast as the instapot.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #66Jul 7, 2025
Crock Pot, Instant Pot, Pressure cooker
I’ve made things in the Instant Pot that were as good as it gets. French dips, Kalua pig with cabbage, egg salad/deviled eggs, chili, much more. You get out of it what you put into it.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #67Jul 7, 2025
Crock Pot, Instant Pot, Pressure cooker
They mean Instant Pot.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #68Jul 7, 2025
Crock Pot, Instant Pot, Pressure cooker
Instant Pot Duo Evo. Does great pressure cooking and sautéing, pretty good slow cooking plus yogurt and canning if you’re into that.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #69Jul 7, 2025
Crock Pot, Instant Pot, Pressure cooker
Yeah it's not GREAT, but if I had to choose just one I'd probably choose the instant pot
View on Redditopen_in_new - #70Jul 7, 2025
Crock Pot, Instant Pot, Pressure cooker
We have an instant pot and a crock pot. We never use the crock pot anymore, but keep it around just in case.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #71Jul 7, 2025
Crock Pot, Instant Pot, Pressure cooker
You should be able to get an instant pot for under 20 at goodwill. At least here in Seattle they are everywhere.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #72Jul 7, 2025
Crock Pot, Instant Pot, Pressure cooker
I have the large instant pot. It is ideal for what you are looking for. Mine has lasted 5+ years and still works great. We do some meal prep stuff for the week. If you want some ideas: seasoned chicken breads (shred when done for wraps, etc), refried beans, hard boiled eggs (easy peel every time!), shredded beef. So many other things but those are our every week items.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #73Jul 7, 2025
Crock Pot, Instant Pot, Pressure cooker
A better rice cooker unless your instant pot does good and holds it all day. I hold in favor hi end zojirushi, delonghi. Instant pot is OK too.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #74Jul 7, 2025
Crock Pot, Instant Pot, Pressure cooker
Two schools of thought. I have a cheap crock pot not branded as such. I got it at job lot for like 20 bucks. It's a heating element and a ceramic insert. There's not much complicated to go wrong. So I'd recommend one of those. But I'd also recommend an instant pot. I use the thing for yogurt, baked potatoes, stews, pulled pork, bunch of stuff. There are things I've made that i don't LOVE. Ribs was meh, but acceptable. I'd do it again if I need to. Whole chicken was cool but just all shredded. I'd rather quarter it raw, roast the legs, shred the breast, etc. Mine doesn't have the sous vide option but I've also heard that's a mediocre attempt at a sous vide, if you need it once - cool, otherwise if you're doing sous vide cooking a lot, get a real one. I make so much baked potatoes in that thing. 22ish minutes and the whole pot is cooked, 6-8 potatoes, without heating up the whole house for an hour in the oven. I've used it for carmelized onions - they lost their form a bit, but came out great - 20 minutes. But the long slow cooks - i still like the crock pot. For me the instant pot is awesome but it still can take an hour to 90 minutes. Whereas a crockpot in the morning before you leave and then it's done when you're home. I have both and use both a ton.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #75Jul 7, 2025
Crock Pot, Instant Pot, Pressure cooker
Instant Pots have been so good they literally harm their business because the units are tanks. Love my 7 in 1!
View on Redditopen_in_new - #76Jul 7, 2025
Crock Pot, Instant Pot, Pressure cooker
I find the instant pot doesn't make a great slow cooker, so I have a dedicated 6qt slow cooker for the 5+ hour cooks and use the instant pot as a pressure cooker
View on Redditopen_in_new - #77Jul 7, 2025
Crock Pot, Instant Pot, Pressure cooker
Second this! I got my Instant Pot about 5 years ago and honestly, it was a total game changer for busy days. I use it for everything from soups to rice to stews.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #78Jul 7, 2025
Crock Pot, Instant Pot, Pressure cooker
Instant Pot, for two people a six quart is fine, the 9 in 1 or the 7 in one. Have mine for a decade almost, given it as gifts. Check prices at Amazon, Costco etc. For me it is my slow cooker, pressure cooker, yogurt maker, rice cooker, egg boiler. That and my air-fryer are go to for cooking.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #79Jul 7, 2025
Crock Pot, Instant Pot, Pressure cooker
I've had the cheapest 3-qt Instant Pot crap out on me, but my current higher end Instant Pot (I think it's the Pro) has been going strong for five years now. Would definitely recommend. That said, I think any multicooker from any big brand will be just as good. Breville, Instant Pot, Crock Pot, Ninja, etc. You can also get a manual stovetop pressure cooker, but it's not much cheaper.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #80Jul 6, 2025
What BIFL items would you add to your wedding registry?
Vitamix blender, kitchenaid mixer, le creuset Dutch oven, instant pot, Rowena iron to name a few
View on Redditopen_in_new - #81Jul 5, 2025
Ever Bought Something That Quietly Changed You?
Love reading through this thread! Made me think of some things that have been impactful for me over the years (not all necessarily BIFL, but long-lasting + hard to imagine going without): Kitchen -Ninja grill (grills/air-fries/dehydrates/roasts/bakes! Easily use this everyday since it lowers the barrier to cook, also easy to clean in dishwasher) -Instant pot -Electric water kettle (also daily! We’ve gotten into looseleaf tea as a result) Bathroom -Electric toothbrush -Squatty potty -Menstrual cup and/or disc -Stainless steel tongue scraper -Safety razor & electric shaver Comforts -Kindle (combined with free Libby app 🤌) -insulated, leakproof travel tumbler (keeps tea hot for hours, perfect for long shifts) -Weighted blanket & stuffed animals -Blackout curtain that Velcros to the window (no gaps!) -sunrise alarm clock -Handkerchiefs -Merlin Bird ID app (free, opened so many doors with birding!) -embroidery scissors & crochet hooks
View on Redditopen_in_new - #82Jul 5, 2025
What's a good budget multi-cooker* ?
I recently purchased this [Instant Pot Duo Plus](https://x.com/ohletsshop/status/1941524066101575884?s=46) 6 Qt 9-in-1 and it has exceeded all my expectations! It truly delivers on every promise. I've successfully made everything from rice and soups to meat and yogurt, and even sterilized jars with ease. The standout feature for me is its speed; it cooks significantly faster than conventional methods, saving me valuable time without compromising on taste. It's incredibly user-friendly, perfect even for pressure cooker novices. The 6-quart capacity is ideal for a medium family or for meal prepping. Plus, the slow cook function means it's a versatile, all-in-one appliance. Highly recommend!
View on Redditopen_in_new - #83Jul 3, 2025
Ever Bought Something That Quietly Changed You?
100x an instantpot. the joy and felex to making healthy low work meals is beyond "why didn't i buy earlier" ^(think crock pot but turbo!) 1,000x a good blender for my morning healthy breakfast shake to go. tremendous time saver and better diet! 1,000,000x a usable every day bike. exercise and fun utility with added meditation and relaxing. 1Billion x a decent set of trail running shoes. exercise and utility with meditation, and i find it relaxing, ymmv lol.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #84Jul 1, 2025
College Student's Studio Apartment Concern!
Get an air fryer. It's not going to completely eliminate cooking smells, but it will drastically reduce them. Similar with an instant pot. If you're cooking on a stovetop, especially any heavily-spiced foods, you're probably going to wind up with food smells seeping into your bedding. Because an air fryer and/or instant pot is more self contained, it will mitigate that a bit.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #85Jun 12, 2025
The Best Air Fryer available now? Recommendation
If you're only considering those under $100, then I'd go with the Instant Vortex. Its well within your budget and is the recommended budget option on Wirecutter.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #86Jun 3, 2025
What’s one thing you bought once and it’s still going strong years later?
My Instant Pot. I bought it ~10? years ago and JUST replaced it, and only because I dropped and broke it. It was still going strong. It seemed like one of those trendy appliances that would come and go, but I still regularly use it and swear by that thing.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #87May 11, 2025
What are some items under $500 you’ve made so far that changed your life?
I got my instant pot that does like 8 different settings for $20
View on Redditopen_in_new - #88May 8, 2025
What did you wish you had at 21?
An instant pot! Could’ve saved so much money cooking for myself more often.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #89May 6, 2025
[Request] Looking for a good Sous Vide recommendation
I'm using the Instant Pot sous vide unit - seems well made and easy to set.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #90May 6, 2025
[Request] Looking for a good Sous Vide recommendation
I’ve been happy with my instant pot sous vide. Put several hundred cooking hours on it and it’s been pretty accurate.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #91May 6, 2025
[Request] Looking for a good Sous Vide recommendation
I think the best advice is to stick with a “dumb” sous vide. No need to spend a crazy amount on something WiFi connected with a bunch of other features imo. I have an instant pot sous vide I got for ~$80 and it’s been going strong for about 4 years. I semi recently upgraded from ziploc bags to a vacuum sealer from Costco which has also helped speed up my process and also store meats and such in a better way. I just use any pot and weigh stuff down with a bowl or plate. In terms of meat, I think the absolute best use for a sous vide is pork. Perfect temp and as moist as possible. Second best would probably be chicken breast for the same reason. You can also do stuff like cheesecake though I’ve never tried. Check out the chef Kenji Alt-Lopez I believe his name is. He’s got a metric ton of sous vide guides and they’re really good.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #92Apr 12, 2025
Best Air Fryers to Buy?
I was also looking for an air fryer and came across [this Reddit thread](https://www.reddit.com/r/AirFryers/comments/1jb0m19/best_air_fryers_recommended_by_redditors_in_2025/). I ended up buying the Instant Vortex, and it was honestly the best decision I made!
View on Redditopen_in_new - #93Apr 12, 2025
Best Air Fryers to Buy?
I have an [Instant Vortex air fryer](https://www.reddit.com/r/AirFryers/comments/1jb0m19/best_air_fryers_recommended_by_redditors_in_2025/) that I bought a few months ago. I use it all the time to make things like crispy chicken wings, roasted veggies, and even homemade sweet potato fries. It’s been super handy!
View on Redditopen_in_new - #94Apr 12, 2025
Best Air Fryers to Buy?
I was also looking for an air fryer and came across [this Reddit thread](https://www.reddit.com/r/AirFryers/comments/1jb0m19/best_air_fryers_recommended_by_redditors_in_2025/). I ended up buying the Instant Vortex, and it was honestly the best decision I made!
View on Redditopen_in_new - #95Apr 11, 2025
This is why I've always encouraged people to buy Japan made rice cooker - so satisfying to watch
No I'm not saying one is worse than the other. I can live my whole life cooking rice from an instant pot but with an instant pot or stovetop boiling, you have to be more mindful of timing, steam release, and ratios. Those are obviated when using a ricecooker which condenses and simplifies the experience which is why most people prefer using a rice cooker. What I mean is I would prefer using my instant pot to cook soups, broths, stock vegetables while also cooking rice in a rice cooker at the same time but between my two instant pots I could reasonably do both but I'd rather leverage the versatility of the instant pot doing more than just rice and have a dedicated rice cooker to make rice while I focus on cooking other things.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #96Apr 11, 2025
This is why I've always encouraged people to buy Japan made rice cooker - so satisfying to watch
I have an Instant Pot pressure cooler that does a great job with rice. If you have a pressure cooker, use that instead. It will save you room and money.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #97Apr 10, 2025
This is why I've always encouraged people to buy Japan made rice cooker - so satisfying to watch
An instant pot. Makes great rice, stainless steel pot instead of nonstick, less expensive then a Zojirushi and you can use it for a wider array of food.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #98Apr 10, 2025
Items that made your life so much easier/saved time?
My Instapot is the hero of the house
View on Redditopen_in_new - #99Apr 10, 2025
Items that made your life so much easier/saved time?
Yes! I just learned i can use my instant pot as a rice cooker and it’s been game changer. Will never boil on the stove again.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #100Apr 9, 2025
Items that made your life so much easier/saved time?
I second the Instantpot. I make beans, yogurt, soups, rice, boiled eggs, steamed veggies, sterilizing, reheating....It's a real workhorse. Plus you can delay the cooking so that you can put in a meal at breakfast, and come home with dinner mostly set. Best $40 (craigslist) I ever spent honestly. I'm debating buying a second one but I don't have the space right now.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #101Apr 9, 2025
Items that made your life so much easier/saved time?
- Instapot (15 years old, use it 5+ times a week) - olukai flip flops (10 years old and counting) - Merrill rain jacket (18 years old!!) - 100% cotton quilts (I have multiple, ranging in age from 5-20 years old) - kindle e-reader. I recently upgraded but I still have my 1st one and it’s working well at 10 years - le cruset cookware - stainless steel pots and pans - copper kettle
View on Redditopen_in_new - #102Apr 9, 2025
Items that made your life so much easier/saved time?
Our place pressure cooker/instant pot - I can cook chicken breasts from frozen to shredded in 15 min! And my kindle, I read 60 books on it last year, carry it around constantly and mostly read library books so it pays for itself quickly. I'd much rather read on the subway then scroll anyways!
View on Redditopen_in_new - #103Apr 9, 2025
What’s your best lazy-but-functional home upgrade?
Instant pot over rice cooker every time. The instant pot is stainless steal and does far more than a rice cooker. If you like real bread a bread maker is great. Not lazy but having a well seasoned cast iron frying pan is definitely a kitchen essential. Can't make a good steak indoors without a cast iron frying pan.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #104Apr 9, 2025
Items that made your life so much easier/saved time?
Instant Pot. Saves me so much time for meal prepping.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #105Apr 9, 2025
Items that made your life so much easier/saved time?
Instant pot. You can cook damn near anything in it, in very little time. I use it most for cooking frozen meat, rice and my mom uses it for ribs. In addition, that swirly chicken shredder tool has been super helpful for shredding taco/burrito meat without a knife and fork.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #106Apr 7, 2025
What’s your best lazy-but-functional home upgrade?
If you meal prep, you can make and freeze Instant Pot meals that can go directly in and cook from frozen. Just make sure you freeze it into a shape that fits in your IP, like in a freezer bag set inside a round food container.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #107Mar 12, 2025
Looking for an air fryer/mini oven combo?
I can't speak to any airfryer being buy it for life. I do see convection ovens around that were from the 1960s That said I have an Instant Vortex Pro that's used to airfryer, bake, broil, toast etc........it's in constant use in our home---breakfast lunch and dinner for two years now. I like the oven door style it has. if i replace I'll get one that is similar but larger with the two doors that open left and right.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #108Mar 2, 2025
Rice cooker with stainless steel or ceramic bowl for EU
I love my instant pot and have a ceramic-lined insert that makes great rice. Been using this combo for 5 years with no sign of stopping.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #109Feb 7, 2025
Best Air Fryers to Buy?
I heard some good things about instant pot
View on Redditopen_in_new - #110Feb 7, 2025
Best Air Fryers to Buy?
I used to have the ninja with the lift top lid and I loved it! Way more convenient getting food in and out than the basket style. I currently have the Insta pot brand (because I did not have the money to buy the ninja) and it works extremely well.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #111Feb 3, 2025
What brand / type of pots & pans are worth investing in as a young adult?
I really love Mafter Bourgeat carbon steel. Lighter than cast iron, and in my opinion easier to season than cast iron. It is generally more expensive than Lodge but less expensive than cast iron such as Staub or Le Crueset. Although for braising/baking/high acid sauces I do love my enameled cast iron. I actually have some stainless steel Rachel Ray stock pots from 2008 that have gone the distance. For a stock pot I actually got a smaller random one at Home Goods for boiling noodles since we have the 6qt Le Creuset as well as my instant pot liner for larger options. Which reminds me, if small cooking appliances are on your list, look for brands like Instant Pot that have models can do double duty since the pot liner can be used on the stove. When I first got my house (at 21!) I specifically got a Crock Pot brand slow cooker that had a heavy ceramic liner that could be also used in the oven for roasting. Just be aware that they have to be specific models with these brands. Not every IP or Crock liner can be used this way
View on Redditopen_in_new - #112Feb 2, 2025
Rice Cooker Recommendations
I would get an instant pot mini . rice cooker and more
View on Redditopen_in_new - #113Jan 8, 2025
What are some BIFL Wedding Gifts?
Not all appliances but kitchen related: A nice Dutch oven (I like Staub). Kitchenaid mixer. Vitamix blender. Zojirushi rice cooker. Crockpot. Instapot. Tramontina tri-ply stainless steel pans. Shun chef knife. A good air fryer if that’s your thing. Staub casserole dish set. These all get heavy use in my kitchen and I plan/hope to have them forever or at least a very long time.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #114Jan 5, 2025
Im I’m desperate need of a proper milk frother/foamer that isn’t a fill up design
I love this frother. It is also perfect for heating water for a cup of tea instead of using the big kettle. Instant Pot Instant Milk Frother,... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B7TZD36Z?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
View on Redditopen_in_new