Instant Pot Duo Plus Review

The Instant Pot Duo Plus has become a staple in many kitchens, and for good reason. It is a multi cooker that combines pressure cooking, slow cooking, sautéing, steaming, rice cooking, yogurt making, sous vide, sterilizing, and warming in one appliance. Our editorial team compared specifications, buyer feedback, and key decision factors to give you an honest review. If you are considering this popular model, here is what you need to know before buying.

Design and Build Quality

The Duo Plus features a stainless steel outer shell that resists fingerprints and smudges. The control panel is intuitive, with a backlit LCD display that shows cooking progress as a horizontal bar. There are 17 one-touch smart programs, including Soup, Meat/Stew, Bean/Chili, and more. The lid is heavy and locks securely, with a steam release valve that is easy to turn. The inner pot is made of 3-ply stainless steel, which heats evenly and is durable. The handles on the sides stay cool during cooking, and the base has non-slip feet.

Available in 3, 6, and 8 quart capacities, the 6 quart model is the most popular for families. It weighs about 12 pounds, so it is not portable, but it is sturdy. The included accessories are a steam rack, rice paddle, soup spoon, and measuring cup. They are functional but basic, and some users upgrade to silicone sealing rings for easier cleaning.

Performance and Cooking Results

Pressure cooking is the Duo Plus's strongest function. It reaches pressure quickly, typically in 10 to 15 minutes, and maintains a steady temperature. Beans, tough cuts of meat, and grains come out tender and consistent. The sauté function heats well for browning meat or vegetables before pressure cooking, which adds depth of flavor. The rice function produces fluffy rice, though some users prefer a dedicated rice cooker for perfect results every time.

Slow cooking is functional but runs hotter than a traditional slow cooker. Many buyers report that recipes finish faster than expected, so you may need to adjust times. The sous vide mode is a bonus for those who want to try precision cooking, and the yogurt function works well for homemade yogurt. The sterilize mode is handy for baby bottles or canning jars. Overall, performance is reliable across all functions, though the slow cooker is the weakest link.

Ease of Use

The control panel is straightforward, with a dial and buttons for selecting programs. The display shows a progress bar that indicates preheating, cooking, and keep warm stages. First-time users will need to read the manual, but most get the hang of it after a few uses. The steam release is simple: turn the valve to venting, but be careful as it is loud and may sputter. The lid opens with a slight turn, and the inner pot lifts out easily for serving.

One common complaint is that the steam release can be messy, so always point it away from cabinets. The sealing ring absorbs odors, so you may want a separate ring for savory and sweet dishes. The buttons are responsive, and the keep warm function works well. For those who are new to pressure cooking, the included recipe booklet provides a good starting point.

Cleaning and Maintenance

The inner pot, steam rack, and accessories are dishwasher safe, which simplifies cleanup. The lid should be wiped with a damp cloth, and the sealing ring can be removed and washed by hand. The base should never be submerged; just wipe it down. The steam release valve and anti-block shield can be removed for thorough cleaning. Most buyers find the cleaning routine manageable, though the lid has many crevices that require attention.

To prevent odors, wash the sealing ring after each use and dry it completely. Some users recommend soaking the ring in vinegar or baking soda to remove stubborn smells. The inner pot is non-stick? No, it is stainless steel, so food may stick if you do not use enough liquid. A quick soak usually loosens residue.

Common Buyer Complaints

While the Duo Plus receives high ratings, some complaints appear repeatedly. The slow cooker mode is the biggest issue, as it tends to boil rather than simmer, leading to overcooked dishes. The steam release is noisy and can scare pets or children. The display can be hard to read in low light, though it is backlit. Some users wish the accessories were more robust, like a steamer basket with finer mesh. The unit is bulky and takes up significant counter space, which is a concern for small kitchens.

Another minor issue is that the sealing ring absorbs odors, so your yogurt may taste like chili if you do not switch rings. The cord is relatively short, so you may need an extension cord. A few users report that the buttons sometimes require a firm press, but this is not widespread. Overall, these complaints are not deal-breakers for most, but they are worth knowing.

Comparison with Alternatives

The Duo Plus competes with the Instant Pot Duo 60, which is a simpler version with fewer programs. The Duo Nova offers a different control panel with a dial and a quick-release button. The Ninja Foodi 9-in-1 adds air frying and a TenderCrisp function, making it more versatile but also more expensive. The Crock-Pot Express is a budget pressure cooker that lacks sous vide and yogurt modes. For most users, the Duo Plus strikes a good balance of features and value, but if you want air frying, consider the Ninja Foodi.

If you already own a dedicated slow cooker and only need pressure cooking, the Duo Plus may be overkill. However, for those starting from scratch, it replaces multiple appliances. The 6 quart size is ideal for families, while the 8 quart suits larger households. The 3 quart is compact for couples or small kitchens.

Final Verdict

The Instant Pot Duo Plus is a capable and versatile multi cooker that delivers consistent results. It excels at pressure cooking and offers a wide range of functions that justify its price. The learning curve is manageable, and cleaning is straightforward. Its slow cooker mode is not perfect, but it is a minor flaw in an otherwise excellent appliance. If you want a single device to handle many cooking tasks, the Duo Plus is a solid investment. Check the current price on Amazon to see if it fits your budget.