Instant Pot Duo Crisp Review

The Instant Pot Duo Crisp has become a bestseller in the pressure cooker category, and for good reason. It promises to replace both a pressure cooker and an air fryer, saving precious counter space. But does it deliver on that promise? Our editorial team compared specifications, buyer feedback and key decision factors to give you an honest review. We did not test it in a lab, but we analyzed thousands of user reviews and expert opinions to help you decide if this 8-in-1 appliance is right for your kitchen.

Design and Build Quality

The Duo Crisp has a familiar Instant Pot design: a stainless steel body, a control panel with a digital display, and a sturdy handle. It comes in two sizes, 6.5 quarts and 8 quarts, and the 8-quart model we focus on is large and heavy. It measures about 15.4 inches wide and 14.2 inches tall, so it needs a permanent spot on your counter. The unit includes two lids: the standard pressure cooking lid and a separate air fryer lid with a heating element and fan. The lids are not interchangeable while the pot is hot, which is a key design consideration.

The stainless steel inner pot is durable and has a tri-ply bottom for even heating. It is dishwasher safe, but the outer body and lids must be wiped clean. The air fryer lid is heavier than expected and has a detachable basket that is easy to handle. The control panel has buttons for each function, but the layout can be overwhelming at first. The display is clear, and the buttons are responsive, but you need to read the manual to understand the multi-step processes.

Performance: Pressure Cooking and Air Frying

As a pressure cooker, the Duo Crisp performs like a standard Instant Pot. It reaches pressure quickly, cooks evenly, and the results are consistent. The 8-quart capacity is generous for family meals, and you can cook a whole chicken or a large batch of chili. The sauté function is powerful enough to brown meat before pressure cooking, which adds depth to stews and curries. The slow cooker function works, but some users report that it runs hotter than a dedicated slow cooker, so you may need to adjust times.

The air fryer function is where the Duo Crisp shines, but with limitations. The air fryer lid uses EvenCrisp technology to circulate hot air, and it does produce crispy results. French fries, chicken wings, and roasted vegetables come out golden and crunchy. However, the basket is shallow and holds less food than a dedicated air fryer of similar size. For an 8-quart pot, the air fryer basket holds about 4 to 5 quarts of food, which is enough for a small family but not for entertaining. You also need to shake the basket halfway through cooking for even browning, and the cooking times are similar to a standalone air fryer.

One major downside is the transition between functions. If a recipe calls for pressure cooking and then air frying, you must wait for the pot to cool down before switching lids. This can add 10 to 15 minutes to the process, which is frustrating if you are in a hurry. Some buyers have found workarounds, like using the air fryer lid on a separate pot, but that defeats the purpose of a single appliance.

Ease of Use and Learning Curve

The Duo Crisp is not a set-and-forget appliance. It has multiple functions, and each one has its own settings and timing. The pressure cooking function is familiar to Instant Pot users, but the air fryer requires you to select the temperature and time manually. The control panel has a delay start, a keep warm function, and a pressure level selector, but the buttons are not intuitive. New users will need to consult the manual or watch online tutorials. The included recipe booklet is helpful, but it only covers basic dishes.

Once you learn the ropes, the Duo Crisp becomes easier to use. The presets for soup, meat, and rice are convenient, and you can adjust the time and temperature. The air fryer lid has a built-in timer and a reminder to shake the basket, which is a nice touch. The steam release on the pressure lid is loud and can be startling, but that is common for all pressure cookers. The lid locks securely, and the safety features are robust, including overheat protection and a pressure regulator.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Cleaning the Duo Crisp is manageable, but it requires some effort. The inner pot and air fryer basket are dishwasher safe, which is a plus. The air fryer basket has a nonstick coating, but it can scratch if you use metal utensils, so hand washing is recommended to extend its life. The pressure cooking lid has a silicone sealing ring that absorbs odors and may need to be replaced every few months. The lid also has a steam release valve and a float valve that need to be cleaned regularly to prevent clogging.

The air fryer lid is the most challenging to clean. The heating element and fan are exposed, and food splatters can bake onto them. You must wipe the lid with a damp cloth after each use, and you cannot submerge it in water. Some buyers have found that using a brush to clean the fan blades is necessary. The exterior of the unit is easy to wipe down, but the control panel can collect fingerprints. Overall, cleaning is not a dealbreaker, but it is more involved than a dedicated air fryer.

Common Buyer Complaints and How to Avoid Them

We analyzed thousands of user reviews to identify recurring issues. The most common complaint is the size and weight. The 8-quart model is bulky and heavy, making it difficult to store. If you have limited counter space, consider the 6.5-quart version, which is lighter but still large. Another frequent complaint is the air fryer capacity. Many buyers expected a larger basket, but the shallow design means you can only cook small batches. To maximize efficiency, use the air fryer for side dishes and cook the main dish in the pressure cooker.

Some users report a plastic smell when using the air fryer function for the first few times. This is common with new appliances and usually dissipates after a few uses. Running the air fryer empty for 10 minutes at 400°F can help eliminate the odor. Another issue is the loud steam release, which can be startling. To reduce noise, use a kitchen towel over the steam valve or wait for natural pressure release. Finally, some buyers find the control panel confusing. Take the time to read the manual and practice with simple recipes before attempting complex dishes.

How Does It Compare to Alternatives?

The Instant Pot Duo Crisp competes with other multi-cookers like the Ninja Foodi and the Instant Pot Pro Crisp. The Ninja Foodi has a similar design but offers a larger air fryer basket and a more intuitive control panel. It also has a TenderCrisp function that allows you to pressure cook and air fry in one step, which saves time. However, the Ninja Foodi is more expensive and has a smaller pressure cooking capacity in some models. The Instant Pot Pro Crisp is a newer version with a built-in thermometer and a more powerful air fryer, but it is also pricier.

If you are on a budget, the standard Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 is a good alternative if you do not need air frying. It is cheaper and simpler to use, but you will need a separate air fryer. For most families, the Duo Crisp offers the best balance of functionality and price, especially if you can find it on sale. Check the current price on Amazon to see if it fits your budget.

Value and Final Verdict

The Instant Pot Duo Crisp is a versatile appliance that can replace several kitchen gadgets. It is ideal for families who want to pressure cook and air fry without cluttering their counters. The build quality is solid, and the performance is reliable, though the air fryer capacity is limited. The learning curve is steep, but once you master it, the possibilities are endless. If you have the space and patience, the Duo Crisp is a worthwhile investment. However, if you are primarily an air fryer user, you may be better off with a dedicated air fryer or the Ninja Foodi. Our rating is 4.6 out of 5, reflecting its strengths and minor drawbacks.