The Instant Pot Duo Plus is a refined version of the original Duo, and the upgrades matter in daily use. The EasySeal lid automatically locks when pressure cooking, so there’s no guessing whether you’ve sealed it correctly. A cooking progress indicator on the display tells you exactly when it starts pressurizing, which removes the usual anxiety of wondering if the pot is actually working.

The 6-quart capacity handles meals for four to six people without taking over your countertop. It combines nine functions into one appliance, including pressure cooking, slow cooking, rice cooking, and a sterilizer mode. The ceramic non-stick inner pot is a welcome change from standard stainless steel. Food releases easily, and cleanup is straightforward since the pot is dishwasher safe.

The 15 one-touch programs cover common dishes like soup, meat, and beans. You still need to adjust cook times for specific recipes, but the presets get you close. The only real limitation is the 6-quart size. It works well for everyday dinners, but you will want the 8-quart version for batch cooking or large roasts.