Buying a multicooker: which features, size and safety features really matter day to day

A multicooker can combine a rice cooker, steamer, slow cooker and electric cooking pot in one appliance. This saves space and can make it easier to prepare rice, soups, stews, pasta and steamed dishes. However, a long list of features doesn’t automatically mean an appliance is right for you.

If you focus only on the number of programmes or eye-catching marketing claims, it’s easy to overlook important details. Three common pitfalls are particularly worth bearing in mind:

1. Lots of features, but little practical control: A 7-in-1 multicooker sounds versatile. What matters, though, is whether the programmes suit the dishes you make and whether you can adjust the time, temperature or power level as needed.
2. The wrong capacity: The stated pot size doesn’t always match the amount you can actually use. For soups and pressure-cooking programmes, you must not exceed the maximum fill line.
3. Time-consuming cleaning: A fixed inner pot, hard-to-reach parts of the lid or non-removable steaming components can make everyday cleaning much more of a chore.

The key things to look for in a multicooker

1. Choose a capacity that suits your household

For one person or a couple, an appliance with a capacity of around 1.8 to 3.8 litres is often enough. A compact electric multicooker takes up less space and is ideal for small kitchens, student accommodation or the office.

Households with several people should look for a capacity of around 5 to 7.6 litres. The type of dishes you make matters as much as the volume. A smaller rice cooker may be enough for rice and side dishes, while stews, braised dishes and meal prep call for more space.

Important: depending on the programme, the usable capacity may be less than the total volume. With a pressure cooker, liquids and ingredients must not go above the marked fill line. Always follow the instruction manual rather than general guidelines.

2. Compare the functions and power rating

A rice cooker with a steamer is useful if you want to cook rice and vegetables at the same time. A slow cooker, on the other hand, cooks food over a longer period at a moderate temperature. If you regularly make soups, pasta and hot pot dishes, you may benefit from having several power levels.

Look out for the following:

• Rice programme: ideal for rice and grains, and sometimes porridge.
• Steaming function: requires a suitable insert and enough water.
• Slow-cooking programme: useful for braised dishes and longer cooking times.
• Searing or sauté function: lets you brown ingredients directly in the pot.
• Keep-warm function: useful when people are eating at different times, but it shouldn’t be mistaken for a way to store food indefinitely.
• Power in watts: higher power can speed up heating, but on its own it says nothing about the quality of the cooking results.

3. Materials, safety and cleaning

With coated pots, use only suitable plastic or wooden utensils. An stainless steel inner pot is often durable, and many models are dishwasher-safe. Ceramic and non-stick coatings can make cleaning easier, but they need to be treated with care.

For appliances with a pressure-cooking function, important safety features include a securely locking lid, controlled steam release and protection against overheating or boiling dry. Hot surfaces and steam can cause burns. Keep the steam vent clear, and don’t open the lid until the pressure has fully released.

Also check:

• Can the inner pot, lid and steaming basket be removed?
• Which parts are dishwasher-safe?
• Is an EU plug or compatible mains voltage specified?
• Is an instruction manual available in German?
• Which accessories are included?

Our picks for different needs

Best for: budget-conscious beginners

plodon One Touch Multi Cooking Pot, 2.3 l

Why this product suits this profile: According to the product details, its compact size is designed for one to three people. Presets for rice, soup, porridge and steaming make it easy to get started.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The programmes focus on everyday dishes you’re likely to make often. A stainless steel steaming insert lets you cook ingredients at the same time.

Key benefits and strengths

2.3-litre pot, touch controls, keep-warm function, and overheat protection and automatic shut-off, according to the product description.

Best for: buyers with high quality standards

Instant Pot 7-in-1 Multi Cooker, 5.7 l

Why this product suits this profile: According to the manufacturer, its capacity is designed for up to six people. Pressure cooking, slow cooking, steaming, searing, and egg and yoghurt programmes offer a range of cooking methods.

How this product avoids the pitfall

According to the manufacturer, safety features include a locking lid, steam release and overheat protection. You must still observe the maximum fill line.

Key benefits and strengths

5.7-litre capacity, stainless steel inner pot and dishwasher-safe components, according to the product description.

Best for: specific uses and frequent cooking

Instant Pot Pro Crisp 220V EU, 7.6 l

Why this product suits this profile: According to the manufacturer, this large appliance is aimed at families, households that meal prep and anyone cooking larger quantities. Two lids bring together pressure cooking and air frying.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The separate lids make it clear which cooking method to use. Check that you have enough storage space before buying.

Key benefits and strengths

7.6-litre capacity, stainless steel inner pot and a temperature range of 21 to 232 °C, according to the manufacturer.

Best for: smaller households and busy professionals

Instant Pot Mini Daydream Blue, 3.8 l

Why this product suits this profile: According to the product description, this compact model makes up to four portions and combines pressure cooking, slow cooking, steaming and keeping food warm.

How this product avoids the pitfall

Its manageable size helps avoid taking up more space than necessary. According to the manufacturer, the stainless steel pot and removable components make cleaning easier.

Key benefits and strengths

3.8-litre capacity, several automatic programmes and dishwasher-safe parts, according to the product details.

Multicooker FAQs

What capacity should I look for in a multicooker?

For one person or a couple, around 1.8 to 3.8 litres is usually enough. Families and households that need to meal prep should consider 5 to 7.6 litres. With pressure-cooking programmes, never exceed the maximum fill level.

Does a multicooker use a lot of electricity?

Energy consumption depends on the power rating, cooking time and programme. An appliance with a higher wattage doesn’t necessarily use more energy per meal if it shortens the heating-up time. For a realistic estimate, compare the power consumption with how long you actually use the appliance.

How long does a multicooker last?

Its lifespan depends on the materials, care and how often you use it. Don’t use metal utensils or abrasive cleaners on coated surfaces. Clean the sealing rings, lid and steam vents regularly, following the instructions, and replace them if they show signs of wear. With any electric cooking pot, unplug it before cleaning and never immerse the main unit in water.