Joybuy Insights

Buying an Instant Pot multicooker: how to find the right size and features

An Instant Pot multicooker can combine pressure cooking, slow cooking, steaming, sautéing and keeping food warm in one appliance. This makes it appealing to families, professionals, singles and meal-prep enthusiasts. However, a long list of functions does not automatically mean you are making the right purchase.

As Joybuy Product Recommendation Officers, we therefore focus on practical criteria rather than advertising claims alone. The most important factors include usable capacity, available safety features, cleaning requirements and whether the programmes genuinely suit your daily routine.

Common pitfalls when buying a multicooker

1. Confusing the stated litre capacity with the usable filling capacity

A 5.7-litre pot does not always hold 5.7 litres of food. Pressure cooking requires a safety margin. Soups, beans and other foods that foam heavily also need additional space. The key factor is therefore not just the gross capacity, but also the maximum fill level specified by the manufacturer.

As a guide:

  • 3.8 litres: suitable for singles, couples and smaller portions
  • 5.7 litres: a good choice for several people and regular meal prep
  • 7.1 litres: suitable for larger families or multiple portions
  • 7.6 litres: worth considering for large quantities and models with an additional air-fryer function

2. Assuming “7-in-1” or “9-in-1” means nine separate appliances

A 7-in-1 multicooker combines several cooking methods, but different programmes may require different settings and accessories. A 9-in-1 multicooker may offer additional functions such as sous vide, rice cooking or sterilising. Before buying, check which features are genuinely relevant to your everyday needs.

For example, a classic multicooker does not necessarily replace an air fryer. For that, you need a model such as the Instant Pot Pro Crisp with a separate air-fryer lid.

3. Promoting time savings without including heating and pressure-release time

Claims such as “up to 70% faster” refer, according to the product description, to specific cooking methods and traditional techniques. The actual duration also includes heating and pressure release. When planning your cooking, always take the complete preparation and cooking time into account.

Technical specifications you should check

Capacity and footprint

Measure the available space on your worktop. In addition to the appliance’s width, you need room to open the lid and allow steam to escape. A 7.1- or 7.6-litre model may take up more worktop space than a compact Instant Pot 3.8 litres.

For two people, 3.8 litres is often sufficient. Families and anyone who batch-cooks one-pot meals will generally have more flexibility with an Instant Pot 5.7 litres. Larger households may wish to consider an Instant Pot 7.1 litres or an Instant Pot 7.6 litres.

Programmes and controls

Look for clearly labelled programmes, adjustable cooking times and a keep-warm function. A programmable pressure cooker is particularly useful when ingredients can be prepared in advance and the meal needs to be ready at a specific time.

Also check whether the appliance you are considering offers the following functions:

  • Pressure cooking and slow cooking
  • Sautéing
  • Steaming
  • Yoghurt or egg programme
  • Keeping food warm
  • Rice or sous-vide function on selected 9-in-1 models
  • Air frying on a multicooker with air fryer

Cleaning and safety features

A removable stainless-steel pot makes cleaning easier. Dishwasher-safe parts can reduce the daily effort involved, but this should be expressly stated in the relevant product description.

With an electric pressure cooker, you should also look for a securely locking lid, controlled steam release, overheat protection and a visible pressure indicator. Read the German instruction manual and observe the maximum fill level. Never try to force the appliance open while it is under pressure.

Product selection by household size and usage

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
Instant Pot Multicooker Mini Seasalt White 3.8 litres

Instant Pot, Multicooker, Mini, Seasalt White, 3.8L

Why this product suits this profile: The compact 3.8-litre capacity is suitable for singles, couples and smaller portions. It offers seven functions for getting started with pressure cooking, slow cooking, steaming and keeping food warm.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The manageable capacity prevents an oversized appliance from taking up unnecessary worktop space and using excess energy for small portions.

Main benefit & strengths

3.8-litre pot, seven programmes and dishwasher-safe components according to the product description.

Suitable for: Buyers seeking high quality
Instant Pot Multicooker Plus 5.7 litres

Instant Pot, Multicooker Plus, 5.7L, Black

Why this product suits this profile: This model combines nine functions with a 5.7-litre capacity. App control, preset programmes and a stainless-steel inner pot are aimed at users with varied kitchen routines.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The list of functions is backed up by specific programmes such as slow cooking, steaming, sous vide and keeping food warm, rather than simply naming general modes.

Main benefit & strengths

9-in-1 functionality, 5.7-litre capacity and a dishwasher-safe pot and lid according to the product description.

Suitable for: Special uses & frequent users
Instant Pot Pro Crisp 7.6 litres with Air Fryer

Instant Pot MultiCooker Pro Crisp 220V EU, 7.6L

Why this product suits this profile: Two lids combine pressure cooking and air frying. This is ideal for anyone who wants to prepare crispy foods and slow-cooked dishes with one appliance.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The air-fryer function is not merely listed as a buzzword; it is delivered through a dedicated lid and a separate basket.

Main benefit & strengths

7.6 litres, a temperature range of 21 to 232 °C according to the product description, plus pressure cooking and air frying.

Looking for more options?

We have put together a complete, regularly updated list of products that fully meet these strict selection criteria and the safety regulations applicable in the EU.

Energy consumption and everyday practicality

A multicooker can affect energy consumption because cooking and cleaning take place in one pot. However, whether it offers energy-efficient cooking depends on the recipe, quantity, cooking time and electricity tariff. Claims such as “up to 80% less energy” should therefore be understood as product-specific maximum values and not applied to every meal.

Models with a sauté function are practical for one-pot dishes: onions or vegetables can be prepared directly in the inner pot before liquid and the remaining ingredients are added. This reduces the need for extra pans and washing-up. When meal prepping, you should also check whether the pot size is sufficient for the desired number of portions.

Instant Pot multicooker FAQs

How many litres should an Instant Pot multicooker hold?

For singles and couples, 3.8 litres is often sufficient. A 5.7-litre model provides more flexibility for family meals and meal prep. For larger households or multiple portions, 7.1 or 7.6 litres is a sensible choice, provided you have enough worktop space.

Is a multicooker with an air fryer a complete replacement for two appliances?

That depends on your expectations. A model with an air-fryer lid can combine pressure cooking and air frying. Before buying, check the basket size, temperature range, accessories and the space required for the two lids. If you regularly prepare large air-fryer portions, a separate appliance may still be more practical.

How long does an electric pressure cooker last?

Its lifespan depends on how it is used, cleaned and maintained. The sealing ring, steam valve and lid should be checked regularly and cleaned or replaced according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Only use the appliance within the specified filling limits and follow the instruction manual.