Buying a Multicooker: Your Guide to Easier, Faster Cooking

Juggling a busy week? Short on time but still want to enjoy nutritious, home-cooked meals? You're not alone. A multicooker, also known as an all-in-one pot, can be the perfect solution. This appliance combines the functions of multiple kitchen gadgets, such as a pressure cooker, slow cooker, and sometimes even an air fryer. The result is fewer dishes, more counter space, and often a lower energy bill.

As a Joybuy Product Recommendation Officer, I'm here to help you navigate the specifications. In this guide, we'll compare features and highlight several popular choices, so you can find a model that fits your household and cooking style. No marketing fluff—just practical information.

What to Look for When Buying a Multicooker

Before you make a choice, it's helpful to consider a few key points. A multicooker is a versatile appliance, but not all models are created equal.

1. Capacity and Size

The capacity of the inner pot is crucial. Do you usually cook for yourself or a partner? In that case, a compact electric cooking pot of 1.5 to 3 liters is often sufficient. For a family of four or more, a capacity of 5.7 liters or larger is a more logical choice. Also, consider the storage space in your kitchen; a larger model will naturally have a bigger footprint.

2. Functions: From Pressure Cooker to Air Fryer

The term 'multi' says it all: these pots can do a lot. Think about which functions are essential for you. Standard functions often include:

• Pressure Cook: For meals that are ready in a fraction of the normal time.
• Slow Cook: Ideal for stews and braised meats.
• Sauté: For searing meat or vegetables directly in the pot.
• Steam: A healthy way to prepare vegetables and fish.

Some advanced models, like the Ninja Speedi, also offer an air fry function, which uses hot air to create a crispy finish. Others, like the Instant Pot, have dedicated programs for making yoghurt or rice.

3. Energy-Efficient Cooking

A key advantage of a multicooker is its efficiency. Because the pot is hermetically sealed, very little heat is lost. The pressure cooker function, in particular, ensures energy-efficient cooking. According to the brand Instant Pot, their appliance can prepare meals up to 70% faster and consume up to 80% less energy than traditional cooking methods. This makes it a smart choice for anyone looking to be more energy-conscious.

Our Product Recommendations

Below is a selection of multicookers with different features, suitable for various households and needs.

Instant Pot Classic 5.7L Multi-Cooker

Why it stands out: The Instant Pot is one of the most recognized names in the world of multicookers. This model is a modern take on the popular Duo series and is known as a reliable all-rounder. It combines seven appliances in one: pressure cooker, sauté pan, steamer, slow cooker, rice cooker, food warmer, and yoghurt maker.

Pros:

• 7-in-1 functionality: Highly versatile for a wide range of multicooker recipes.
• Large capacity: At 5.7 liters, it's spacious enough for meals for up to six people.
• Ease of use: Clear buttons and pre-programmed settings make cooking simple.

Who is it for? Ideal for families or those who enjoy batch cooking for the week. If you're looking for a reliable and versatile all-in-one pot without overly complex extras, this is a solid choice.

Bear Multi-Functional Electric Cooking Pot DRG-C16Z1, 1.6L

Why it stands out: This model from Bear is the definition of compact and practical. With its small footprint and focused functions, it's a perfect electric cooking pot for smaller kitchens, dorm rooms, or studios.

Pros:

• Compact size: The 1.6-liter capacity is perfect for one or two-person households.
• Simple controls: Two power settings for cooking and simmering, with no complicated menus.
• Non-stick coating: The inner pot has a non-stick coating, which makes cleanup effortless.

Who is it for? Perfect for students, singles, or couples looking for a simple solution for cooking noodles, soup, or a quick stew. It's also handy as an extra pot for side dishes.

Ninja Speedi ON400EU Rapid Cooker and Air Fryer

Why it stands out: The Ninja Speedi stands out with its Rapid Cooking technology, which combines steam and air frying. This allows you to cook a complete meal—for example, pasta, vegetables, and a crispy piece of chicken—in one pot in about 15 minutes.

Pros:

• 10-in-1 functionality: Includes air frying, baking, roasting, grilling, and slow cooking.
• Speed: The combination of steam and convection ensures extremely fast cooking times.
• Layering system: The included cooking rack lets you stack ingredients to prepare a full meal at once.
• Powerful: With 1760 watts of power, it heats up quickly.

Who is it for? For busy families and professionals who prioritise speed and convenience. It's also an excellent choice for anyone who wants an air fryer and a multicooker in a single, space-saving appliance.

Bear Electric Hot Pot DHG-B60R6 Dual Pot 6L

Why it stands out: This electric pot is specially designed for social dining. The large 6-liter pot is divided into two compartments, allowing you to prepare two different broths or sauces simultaneously. Perfect for a hot pot night with friends or family.

Pros:

• Dual pot: Ideal for serving two flavours, such as a spicy and a mild broth.
• Large capacity: At 6 liters, there's plenty for a large group.
• Precise temperature control: The temperature is continuously adjustable from 0 to 210°C.

Who is it for? For the social eater who loves hosting hot pot, fondue, or other communal meals. It's less of an everyday multicooker and more of a specialised pot for dinner parties.

Still Haven't Found What You're Looking For?

This selection is just a starting point. There are many more models with unique features and sizes. If you're looking for a different capacity or a specific cooking function not mentioned here, it's worth exploring further.

View all electric pots

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between a multicooker and a slow cooker?

A slow cooker has only one function: cooking food slowly at a low temperature. A multicooker is an all-in-one pot that, in addition to slow cooking, also has other functions like pressure cooking, baking, steaming, and sautéing. Therefore, a multicooker offers significantly more versatility.

Is cooking with a multicooker really more energy-efficient?

Generally, yes. The insulated, sealed pot retains heat and steam very efficiently. The pressure cooking function, in particular, drastically shortens cooking time, leading to lower energy consumption compared to a traditional oven or hob that needs to be on longer for the same dish.

Can I make any recipe in a multicooker?

While a multicooker is extremely versatile, it's not suitable for everything. It excels at stews, soups, curries, rice, grains, and complete one-pot meals. For dishes that require a large, dry, open cooking surface (like pizza) or very delicate preparations, an oven or frying pan is sometimes a better choice. There are countless multicooker recipes available online that are specifically designed for this appliance.