Buying a multicooker: how to choose a model that really suits your kitchen

A multicooker can cook rice, steam, simmer and, in some cases, cook under pressure or with hot air. That sounds convenient, but not every appliance automatically replaces several kitchen gadgets. If you only look at the number of programmes, you could end up with a large pot that rarely gets used.

So keep an eye out for these three common pitfalls:

1. More functions don’t always mean greater convenience. An appliance with 45 programmes may look appealing, but check whether it includes the dishes you cook every day and whether you can adjust the settings manually.
2. The stated capacity isn’t always the usable capacity. You can’t fill a 6-litre pressure cooker to the brim. Rice, beans and grains often have lower filling limits.
3. Claims about speed can be misleading. With an electric pressure cooker, the time it takes to heat up and build pressure is added to the official cooking time. Claims such as “up to 70% faster” come from the brand’s product information and don’t apply to every dish or situation.

Which specifications should you check?

1. Capacity: consider your household and the filling limit

A compact multicooker of around 1 to 3.8 litres may be enough for one or two people. Households of four to six people may prefer a 5 to 7.6-litre model. A 6-litre pressure cooker has room for larger portions, but its maximum usable capacity is lower than the capacity of the inner pot.

For foods that expand, such as rice, pulses and grains, follow the instructions for use. For example, Midea’s product information says not to fill the pot above the MAX line, and that a lower filling limit applies to ingredients that expand. This helps prevent food from boiling over and the steam valve from becoming blocked.

2. Choose functions to suit the way you cook

A multifunctional cooking pot can combine several appliances, but features vary between models. Look out for the differences between:

• Electric pressure cooker: suitable for stews, soup, pulses and meat, where pressure can speed up cooking.
• Electric rice cooker: mainly designed for white rice, brown rice, porridge and sometimes steaming.
• Slow cooker: designed for slow cooking at a low temperature.
• Steamer: handy for vegetables, fish and dumplings.
• Multicooker with air fryer: combines moist cooking methods with baking, roasting or crisping using a second lid.
• Wi-Fi multicooker: offers app control, but requires a suitable Wi-Fi connection and an app that suits the way you use it.

A rice cooker with several functions isn’t automatically a substitute for a pressure cooker. Check whether “pressure cook”, “slow cook”, “steam” and “sauté” are separate functions or just general marketing terms.

3. Check the materials, maintenance and safety features

A removable inner pot makes cleaning easier. Also check what it’s made of:

• Stainless steel is suitable for high temperatures and is often durable enough for everyday use.
• Non-stick coating can be handy for rice, porridge and preventing food from sticking, but you’ll need to use wooden or silicone utensils.
• Check which parts are dishwasher-safe. On some models, this applies only to the inner pot and accessories, not the base unit.
• A locking lid, automatic shut-off and overheating protection are useful practical features.

Never force the lid open when pressure cooking. Wait until the pressure has been fully released and the float valve has dropped. Keep your hands and face away from escaping steam, and place the appliance on a flat, heat-resistant surface.

Which multicooker suits your needs?

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners

Midea Electric Pressure Cooker, 6L, 1000W

Why it suits this profile: A straightforward choice for families who want to prepare soup, stews, rice and steamed meals in one pot. The product information lists a 6-litre capacity, 1000 watts and 14 cooking functions.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The capacity and functions are clearly listed. Be sure to observe the MAX line and the lower filling limit for rice, beans and grains.

Key benefit & highlights

6 litres, a stainless steel inner pot according to the product description, and functions including pressure cooking, steaming and slow cooking.

Suitable for: Shoppers looking for premium quality

Instant Pot Pro WiFi 5.7L 10-in-1

Why it suits this profile: For users who value app control, a range of cooking methods and a pot that can serve around four to six people.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The specifications list a 5.7-litre capacity, 220 volts, 1200 watts, Wi-Fi and dishwasher-safe parts. Before buying, consider whether app control would genuinely be useful for you.

Key benefit & highlights

10 functions, Wi-Fi and app control, sous vide and a stainless steel inner pot according to the product information.

Suitable for: Specific needs & frequent use

Instant Pot Duo Crisp 7.6L 11-in-1

Why it suits this profile: For families and keen cooks who want to air fry, bake, roast or dehydrate as well as pressure cook.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The two lids make it clear that pressure cooking and hot-air cooking are different methods. Bear in mind that you’ll need extra storage space for the air fryer lid.

Key benefit & highlights

7.6 litres, 11 functions and separate lids for pressure cooking and air frying according to the product description.

Frequently asked questions about multicookers

Is a multicooker more energy-efficient than cooking on the hob?

It depends on the dish, cooking time, power rating and amount of food. According to Instant Pot’s own information, some dishes can be cooked up to 70% faster, while energy use may be up to 80% lower. These are brand claims based on specific conditions, not guaranteed savings for every household. So compare the power rating with the actual cooking time.

How long does a multicooker last?

Its lifespan depends on how it’s used and maintained, as well as the quality of parts such as the silicone sealing ring, valve and inner pot. Check the ring regularly for cracks, deformation or lingering smells. Clean the steam valve and lid according to the instructions, and don’t use metal utensils on a non-stick coating.

Consumers in the EU are entitled to a minimum two-year legal guarantee. Some brands also offer their own guarantee or list the availability of spare parts. Keep your proof of purchase and check in advance how parts can be replaced.

Can I leave a multicooker cooking unattended?

Only use a programmable cooking pot according to the instructions. A keep-warm function or delayed start doesn’t mean that supervision is unnecessary. When pressure cooking, the appliance needs clear space around it, the vents must not be covered and the lid must stay closed. Keep children away while it’s cooking, especially when steam is being released.