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Instant Pot DUO Plus: The Main Features

The DUO Plus appliance stands out with these 3 qualities:

• Large Capacity
• 9-in-1 Functionality
• Intuitive Buttons

It is a 1200W unit that is 120V~60Hz and features LCD controls. Pressure cook up to 4 hours with this programmable appliance.

Benefits of Owning the Instant Pot DUO Plus

A major benefit to note right away in our review is the Instant Pot DUO plus is that it will feed a large family or group with its big 8-quart capacity. For a family, this size is ideal; when full, it can make enough to feed 6 or more people. Make the meal all at one time, rather than having to cook it in installments if it had a smaller capacity.

Plus, the food is ready up to 70 percent faster with the special microprocessor-controlled programs. This pressure cooker has a total of 15 smart programs; simply press the digital button on the front of the modern-looking unit that corresponds to the food you want to cook including Pressure Cook, and Keep Warm. The fast cook saves you time in the kitchen, which is conducive to a busy modern lifestyle. And the food that comes from the pre-programmed settings is delicious too, as per many online reviewers.

What’s more, it has a more modern look to the display than the Instant Pot DUO. Seeing how the food is cooking is even easier now with the large, colorful buttons that are clearly labeled. It is much more intuitive than the previous version.

The UL standard is met too, giving you peace of mind in the safety of the kitchen appliance. The 10 safety components include temperature monitoring to help avoid burning anything.

Is it the Best Instant Pot? Pros and Cons

A big advantage of the DUO Plus is that this one device replaces 9 different appliances. Not only does it save space in the kitchen – which is especially useful if you have a small kitchen, such as in an apartment – but it easily preps a variety of meals for you. These are common functions too, rather than ones that barely get used in kitchens. The 9-in-1 model is a pressure cooker and so much more. It’s also a slow cooker, yogurt maker, egg cooker, rice cooker, steamer, warmer, sterilize, steamer, cake maker, and warms foods up.

So, it is certainly versatile – even more so than the 8 Qt. 7-in-1 Instant Pot. It even comes with a recipe booklet if you’re searching for new dishes to create and can pair up with an app for getting started videos and more.

Plus, the Instant Pot DUO Plus is quality made using food grade 304 stainless steel for the inner pot, steam rack, and lid. It does not have a chemical coating. Instead there is a brushed coat that resists fingerprints for a cleaner look. The cooking pot provides even heat too for the best food possible.

Some users have explained that their meals take longer than they had expected with the Instant Pot. To overcome this potential issue with achieving pressure, set the DUO Plus to sauté and toss in the onions or whatever is suitable for your dish and cut vegetables or do other food prep; then when you’re ready to pressure cook, the unit is hot and ready to go.

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Who is this Particular Instant Pot Made For?

In the discussion of whether it is the best instant pot, we must point out that the “best” unit will depend on the user’s needs. The Instant Pot DUO Plus 8 Qt. is ideal for a new cook as it is so easy to use with the big blue LCD buttons on the front that bear the names of its smart programs, such as “rice.” There is no more guessing about when the foods will be ready.

The appliance also will be appreciated by users who want to customize their dishes while still having the convenient smart programs. Each cook program has “less” “normal” and “more” settings so you can put it exactly how you want it. Select “high” or “low” pressure as well. Being able to get this customization at a lower price than the Lux80 is great for someone on a budget.

The fast cook time will also appeal to a busy household who wants to serve up healthy meals in less time. Now there is more space for relaxing after dinner, whether that’s putting your foot up with a good book, spending quality time with the kids, or something else. This is especially true with the steam racks, inner pot and lid all being dishwasher safe.

How the DUO Plus Differs From Pressure Cookers

By now you likely realize this Instant Pot has heightened functionality with its 9-in-1 functionality. Rather than being only a pressure cooker, it can also warm up items and even has a sanitize function. Sanitizing can be for disinfecting kitchen utensils, for example.

You can also change the DUO Plus’ cooking mode mid-way through the process, which isn’t possible with the DUO. This feature is great if you decide that you want to change the meal after it’s already started. In other words, you get more flexibility.

Conclusions about the DUO Plus Instant Pot Model

In our search for the best Instant Pot, we focused on the DUO Plus 8 Quart. We like that is has a better screen the DUO, which is great for anyone who had trouble reading the buttons on the previous model. It also has more functionality than the 7-in-1 and is more affordable than the LUXE80. Our review of the Instant Pot DUO Plus leads us to the conclusion that it has a modern look, fast cook times, and a great, intuitive design for new cooks.

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Main Attributes of the DUO80 7-in-1

This 8-quart electric pressure cooker is part of the best-selling Instant Pot multi-cooker lineup. It is described as a “7-in-1” as it combines 7 kitchen appliances within 1 unit. This brushed stainless steel unit has a 120V – 60 Hz power supply and 1200W heating element.

The key features are:

• Biggest Cooking Pot in DUO Series
• 3rd Generation Technology
• 14 Smart Programs

What is Unique Here for Instant Pot?

Instant Pot continues to update its electric pressure cookers to refine how well it reliably cooks foods. This DUO80 model features 3rd generation technology. The cooker has a microprocessor that is even smarter than its predecessors. For example, the new multigrain cooking program includes a pre-soak of the grains before cooking for optimal results.

There is also better safety than the first generation tech, including Leaky Lid Protection; this means that its microprocessor stops heating if it detects pre-heating is going too long (due to the steam release being incorrectly turned open when cooking begins), thereby preventing food from spoiling.

The Benefits of the DUO 7-in-1 8 Quart

Being able to cook for a large group of people using just one smart program in one pot is a great time-saver. It also simplifies the cooking process. These are obvious benefits of the Instant Pot DUO80. It features an 8-quart cook pot capable of feeding 6 or more people, depending on appetites. If you have a family, then this pressure cooker can likely feed your kids without having to go back and use the smart program again to ensure you make enough food.

It also takes the place of 7 different kitchen appliances, all with just the one unit. We think the versatility is great, as well as freeing up space on your counter because you only need this one appliance now. It is more than a pressure cooker; it is also slow cooks, warms, sautés, and steams foods, and is a rice maker and yogurt maker.

Instant Pot DUO80 Review: Pros & Cons

Ease of cooking is a definite advantage of this Instant Pot model. There are a total of 14 smart programs. Simply press the button attached to the appliance that matches what you want to make, such as “Soup Broth” or “Meat Stew.” With these programs, your food is done correctly, and all you need to do is press a button. Just adjust the pressure level and time with other buttons on the front of the Instant Pot to customize the cooking intensity and how long it goes if you want a variation from the pre-sets.

This 8-quart appliance is bigger than the 6-quart Ultra. But it is slightly less functional as the Ultra model is a 10-in-1 rather than 7-in-1 and can pressure cook up to 6 hours rather than the 4-hour limit of the DUO80. Which one you will prefer will depend on your needs and what features you consider most important.

Instant Pot DUO80 vs. Instant Pot DUO Plus 60

In comparison to the Instant Pot DUO Plus 60 (6 Qt), the Plus 60 has 9-in-1 functionality but the same 4 hour pressure cooking time as the DUO80. On the other hand, the DUO Plus 60 has only a 6-quart capacity so it feeds less people than the 8-quart DUO80.

Other differences between the two models include their appearance. The DUO Plus Series has a more modern LCD screen than the DUO80. There are not the alarm clock-style numbers for the timer on the Plus 60 and it different colors to designate actions for easier usage. Then again, if cooking for more than 4 people, online reviewers recommend a bigger size, such as the 8 Qt. DUO.

Instant Pot DUO80 Review: Who is It Made For?

A new cook will appreciate the simplicity of this Instant Pot model. Just pressing one of the smart programs will deliver delicious foods, with the ability to adjust the time and pressure level (lower or higher) to get the exact meal you want. Many online reviewers explain that the foods turn out as they and their families would expect. Plus, if you customize a program, then the Instant Pot remembers the adjustments for the next time you go to make yogurt, porridge or another type of food with it.

Clean-up is easy too if you don’t want to spend time handwashing the parts. The lid, cooking pot, and steam rack are all safe to put in the dishwasher. The unit is also reasonably priced, especially given it is a 7-in-1 kitchen appliance; so it will appeal to a budget-conscious consumer. This 8-quart cooker even comes with a stainless steel steam rack with handles, soup spoon, rice paddle, recipe book, condensation collector, and measuring cup.

Instant Pot Conclusions

The DUO80 7-in-1 (8 Quart) is a powerful, smart cooker. It can replace 7 appliances in your kitchen, all at a good price point. The unit works easily via buttons, with 14 smart programs that make tasty meals for 6 or more people. While it is not as modern in appearance as some later versions of the Instant Pot, it is reliable and easy to use. The 3rd generation technology is a great selling point too.

Given that its advantages are far greater than any limitations, our Instant Pot DUO80 review is a favorable one. We recommend this product for a new cook or someone looking to simplify their meal-prep routine without falling short on flavor.

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What You’ll Get with the DUO Plus 60

Instant Pot delivers a multi-cooker with:

• 9 Kitchen Appliances in 1
• Cake Feature
• Big Blue LCD Screen

This electric unit has advanced microprocessor technology, a stainless steel inner pot, and 6-quart capacity. Included in the box with it are a steam rack with handles, soup spoon, serving spoon, measuring cup, and recipe book.

The Benefits of the 6 Qt. Instant Pot DUO Plus

A fantastic meal can be yours in a shorter amount of time with this DUO Series model. It is up to 70% faster than a traditional pressure cooker, so you’re ready to eat sooner, and most online reviewers describe the food as tasty that comes from it. What’s more, cleanup is easy as inner pot, steam rack, and lid all are dishwasher safe. Incidentally, the parts are solid food grade 304 stainless steel.

Another main benefit is that the Instant Pot DUO Plus 60 takes the place of 9 separate kitchen appliances. It is a pressure cooker, rice cooker, slow cooker, yogurt maker, egg cooker, steamer, sautés, sterilizer, warmer, and cake maker. The diverse food-prep functions make for a very useful kitchen device and just think of all the room you’ll save in the kitchen with only one appliance now!

DUO Plus 60’s Pros and Cons

The DUO Plus is a step up from the DUO before it. The DUO Plus 60 has a large blue screen for the time and temperature, for example. This feature makes reading the time and current settings easier than before. There are new status icons with the DUO Plus that also show up on the screen; see at a glance if the sound is on or off, when heating or cooking is in process, when the pressure cooker is turned on, and whether the warmer is on or off.

We like this style of the screen better than the Instant Pot Ultra 6 Qt. as the Ultra model has a much longer screen that has a lot of writing in it, making it look cluttered. The DUO Plus style is sleeker and simpler looking in design for better usability, in our opinion.

Also important to mention in our review of Instant Pot DUO Plus 60 is that it has new cook programs not available with the original DUO. These are the cake, egg, and sterilize programs. Being able to make cakes with the same appliance you can pressure cook foods with is pretty amazing. It also makes eggs and sterilizes utensils for the ultimate in convenience for family meals.

As for portion size, the 6 quart capacity of this Instant Pot will feed a family of 4-6. If you tend to serve this amount of people, then the pot makes for easy meals. But if you have a bigger family than 6 or often cook for a crowd, then you may want the 8 quart model of DUO Plus or the Instant Pot LUX80 instead. The LUX80 has an 8-quart cooking pot, although it does not have the sterilize function of the DUO Plus 60.

A few reviewers write online about having trouble opening the lid of their Instant Pot. One reason is that internal pressure must first be released. If this is the case, move the steam release handle to the venting position and then you should be able to open the lid once all steam has been released.

Review of Instant Pot DUO Plus 60: Is it Right for You?

The answer to this question will depend on your cooking needs at home. If you want a fast way to cook foods multiple ways, as well as a cake maker, sterilizer, warmer, and more, all in one appliance, then the Instant Pot DUO Plus 6 Qt. may be very useful for you. If your kitchen is small too, you’ll likely appreciate the amount of space it saves by taking the place of several gadgets, especially if you regularly use all of them.

For those people who are always on the lookout for the best value for their money, this Instant Pot will likely be welcomed. It offers so much help in the kitchen yet costs less than if you were to buy all of those other appliances separately. What’s more, the majority of online reviews of Instant Pot DUO Plus 60 are positive, so you know you’re getting a reliable kitchen unit. Its microprocessors also make cooking a cinch, and you can get the same results every time from the pre-programmed options.

Concluding Remarks

The DUO Plus 60 has a lot of value given its 9-in-1 capabilities within the kitchen. It sets itself apart from many other Instant Pot models with features such as the cake maker and sterilizer. While the 6-quart size may not meet everyone’s needs, it will satisfy a family of 4-6. The meal-making process is much easier with this Instant Pot, and its blue LCD screen makes using it simpler than ever. We conclude our review of Instant Pot DUO Plus 60 with a solid recommendation.

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First Impressions of the LUX80

We immediately like that this appliance can replace 6 separate machines in the kitchen. As this writer has only a small kitchen, it’s nice to be able to make the most of it with just one cooker. Plus, the brushed stainless steel exterior is fingerprint-resistant and rounded shape make for an attractive appearance, which is important if you keep the appliance out on the countertop rather than in a cupboard.

Instant Pot LUX 8 qt. Review: Top Features

The leading features are:

• 6-in-1 capability
• Easy-to-Use Interface
• 3 Adjustable Modes

This unit is UL and ULC certified, including 10 safety mechanisms to provide you confidence in its abilities. It is made of food grade 304 stainless steel and measures 14.50 x 13.18 x 13.50 inches. It runs on a 120V – 60 Hz power supply, using only 1200 watts of power. In the box with the LUX 8 Qt., you get a stainless steel steam rack, soup spoon, rice paddle, measuring cup, and cookbook.

Benefits of the Best Instant Pot

The IP-LUX is a programmable pressure cooker that can run up to 4 hours and reduces overall cooking time by 70 percent. As earlier noted, it combines 6 appliances; in addition to the pressure-cooking function, it is also a slow cooker, warmer, and sautés foods, not to mention being a rice cooker and steamer.

Another key benefit is that the LUX80 is faster cooking than a traditional pressure cooker and easy to use. Its interface has been upgraded since the original Instant Pot so that it is simpler and more intuitive. The one-button operation buttons provide frequent cooking actions, with a total of 12 smart built-in programs. Just press the button aligning to what you want to do, such as “saute” or “rice.”

As earlier noted, it cooks very fast too with its high pressure that is possible with the unit’s integrated 3rd generation technology. And the majority of online reviewers write that the food turns out delicious, especially with the adjustable modes we discuss in the next section of this Instant Pot LUX 8 Qt. review.

Advantages of Owning the IP-LUX 8 Qt.

Obviously the biggest pros are for the audience who this Instant Pot LUX Series is designed for: a beginner cooker or someone looking for a faster way to make healthy meals at home. The quick meal time frees you up for other tasks, whether that is running errands or taking time to relax on the couch with your favorite TV show.

It’s also important to note that we are focusing here on the 8-quart model. It is the largest of the LUX Series, so if you’re feeding a group of 6 or more, you’ll want this bigger size rather than the 6, 5 or 3-quart models. Its cook pot is the same size as the Instant Pot DUO80, with the DUO having the additional ability to pasteurize yogurt.

Lastly, the programmable options of the LUX80 put it in the running for the best Instant Pot. It is a rice cooker and more, in addition to a pressure cooker. The use of buttons makes for simple cooking, with the option to customize the sautéing to exactly how you want your food done, using the “Less,” “Normal,” and “More” temperature options. The cook time easily shows on the front of the pot, and you can even turn off the sound if you want.

Are There Any Issues?

The LUX80 may require a few uses to get to know exactly how you to set it to get your rice or other ingredients cooked exactly how you want them. If you find your rice is too soft, for example, adjust the dry rice and water ratio by cutting back on water.

Most appliances are like this, where you can alter the recipe over time to perfection. Also, some online users state that the lid does not close properly. If this happens to you, try opening the lid and then closing it to fit it back on snugly.

Is The LUX80 The Best Instant Pot?

The answer may depend on what you are looking for in your kitchen appliance. For example, the DUO Plus 8 Quart model has all the smart programs of the LUX Series 8 Quart as well as being able to sterilize kitchen utensils. If you wouldn’t normally use the sterilizing function, then the absence of this function in the LUX80 wouldn’t be a problem.

Overall the LUX80 is a dependable programmable pressure cooker with several additional functions, including sauté and rice maker. It is reasonably priced, especially given all the functions, the fast cook time, ability to customize the temperature, and ease of use. We complete our Instant Pot LUX 8 Qt. review by stating that we stand confidently behind the Instant Pot LUX 8 Quart.

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Instant Pot Ultra 6 Quart Benefits

This electric pressure cooker is the latest in kitchen appliances. In addition to being a programmable pressure cooker, it is also a slow cooker, rice cooker, cake maker, yogurt maker, steamer, sauté, egg cooker, sterilizer, and warmer. Its multi-functionality is clear by the ability to provide all of these food tasks. Plus, when you add up the price of all of those appliances separately, you’ll see that the Instant Pot that replaces them is affordable. Being a 10-in-1 device also saves you room in a small kitchen where space is at a premium.

Also, cooking is a breeze with this appliance, which is why so many people consider it the best Instant Pot. Just press the buttons on the front of it to select the cooking process you want and it is pre-programmed for time and temperature. There’s no more guessing about how long it will take to cook rice, for example.

Instant Pot Review: Assessing the Top Features   

The leading features of the Ultra 6 Qt. 10-in-1 are:

• Central Dial for Added Precision
• Up to 6 Hour Pressure Cooking
• Sterilizer Included

What is Unique about This Instant Pot Ultra?

If you look at other Instant Pot models, you will notice that the Ultra Series has a central dial that the DUO80 and other DUO models do not have. This special dial on the front of the appliance is one that you turn for simpler, more precise cooking for the particular program you select. The custom options on the Ultra are great for the home chef who wants to make their dishes with excellent precision; options include none, low, or high for pressure, low, medium, or high for temperature, and sound on or off.

What are the Pros? Are There Any Cons?

Immediately we liked the way this Instant Pot looks. It has a brushed stainless steel exterior that gives it a modern appearance. Plus, it is fingerprint resistant, so it’ll stay attractive even if you touch it during cooking. There are a lot of safety features too, including the food grade 304 material of the inner pot. Another safety feature is that the lid locks in place to safeguard against accidentally opening it during the pressure process. Plus, cleanup is a cinch after you’re done making the meal; the pot, included steam rack, and lid can all go into the dishwasher.

There is an impressive number of preset temperatures too: 21 in total. It also can pressure cook up to 6 hours, which is 2 hours more than the Instant Pot LUX80 8 Qt. However, the LUX80 has an 8-quart cooking pot, which is bigger than the 6 Quart capacity of this Ultra. Ultimately the best one for your needs will depend on what you use it for and how many people you regularly feed. The 6-quart pot will feed a 4-person family easily.

Who is the Ultra 6 Qt. the Best Instant Pot For?

This Instant Pot review includes discussion of the target audience for the Ultra Series 10-in-1 appliance. It will appeal to someone who is looking to customize their cook times and wants to be very precise re time and temperature. Most of the reviews online say that the food is flavorsome that comes from the machine and is to personal taste with the custom dial. Also, a home cook who wants to make yogurt will appreciate that this machine can do so and quite easily too.

For a busy professional or parent, this Instant Pot is a great choice too. It speeds up cooking time by as much as 70% for its slow cook meals and other meal-prep tasks. Less time in the kitchen will be a blessing for some people as they now have more time to relax or play with their kids.

This unit will also impress those people looking for the latest in kitchen gadgets. The Ultra uses 3rd generation technology. Its microprocessors keep food warm up to 24 hours (auto) or up to 99 hours and 50 minutes (manual).

Final Thoughts on the Instant Pot Review

For convenience and to save time, the Ultra 6 Qt. 10-in-1 is one of the leaders for the best Instant Pot. While it is not the largest Instant Pot out there, it will still feed 4 people and is a great option for a beginner cook. It heats quickly and is more than just a pressure cooker, having a total of 10 functions it can perform. Given its many tasks, including making yogurt, and the ability to customize the programs, this item is of high value. We wholeheartedly recommend the Ultra 6 Qt. 10-in-1.

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