A multicooker can supplement or replace several kitchen appliances. Depending on its features, it can work as an electric pressure cooker, electric steam pressure cooker, slow cooker, rice cooker or steamer. The wide range of functions sounds practical, but it can also lead to poor purchasing decisions. What matters is not having as many programmes as possible, but choosing the right capacity, clear safety features and cleaning that is genuinely manageable in everyday use.
A large appliance takes up more worktop space, usually weighs more and is not automatically more efficient. For one person or a couple, a compact multicooker with a capacity of 1.8 or 3.8 litres may be sufficient. Families and households that prepare meals in advance are generally better suited to models with capacities of 5.7 to 7.6 litres.
Important: the stated pot capacity does not always correspond to the usable filling capacity. With a 6-litre appliance, for example, the actual usable capacity may be lower. Check the markings inside the pot and the manufacturer’s specifications before buying.
A pressure cooker with a 7-in-1 function may combine pressure cooking, slow cooking, browning, steaming, rice cooking, yoghurt making and keep-warm functions. This is only helpful if the controls, time settings and steam release process are clearly explained.
Before buying, check:
A multicooker’s lid, sealing ring, steam outlet and inner pot come into contact with food and steam. Not all parts can be fully immersed in water or cleaned in the dishwasher.
Look for a removable inner pot, easily accessible sealing areas and clear care instructions. A dishwasher-safe lid or inner pot can make daily cleaning easier. The housing itself must never be immersed in water.
As a general guide:
The amount of worktop space required should also be taken into account. Before buying, measure the available depth and height, particularly if the lid opens upwards.
A multifunction cooker with a pressure-cooking function can reduce cooking times for many dishes, but it also requires additional time to build up and release pressure. The actual duration is therefore longer than the programme time alone.
These functions are relevant when choosing a model:
An air fryer does not completely replace a multicooker model. It is primarily designed for dry hot air and crispy results, while a multicooker can also work with liquid, pressure or gentle heat over a longer period.
Safety features are particularly important in an electric pressure cooker. These include a locking lid, controlled steam release, overheat or boil-dry protection and a display that shows the pressure inside the appliance.
Never fill the pot beyond the maximum marking. Steam can be extremely hot and must not be touched directly. Do not open the lid until the pressure has been fully released. Before every use, check that the sealing ring is correctly positioned and that the steam outlet is clear.
Why this product suits this profile: According to the product specifications, this 1.8-litre model takes up relatively little space and is designed for one or two people. With a power rating of 500 watts, it is suitable for small kitchens, student accommodation and frequent moves.
The small capacity reduces the risk of buying an oversized appliance for single portions. The EU plug is intended for direct use in Europe.
Seven cooking functions, a ceramic inner pot, plus pressure-release and boil-dry protection according to the product description.
Why this product suits this profile: According to the product description, this 5.7-litre multicooker offers seven functions and is designed for up to six people. It is well suited to families, couples who plan meals in advance and anyone who regularly prepares larger quantities.
The capacity is clearly designed for larger portions. The product description lists a locking lid, controlled steam release and several safety features.
Stainless-steel inner pot, dishwasher-safe parts and functions for pressure cooking, steaming, browning and keeping food warm.
Why this product suits this profile: According to the product specifications, this appliance combines pressure cooking and air frying with two removable lids. It is aimed at households that want to use different cooking methods in a single appliance.
The two lids separate pressure cooking and air frying. This avoids having to improvise with unsuitable accessories. According to the description, the inner pot and other parts are dishwasher-safe.
7.6-litre capacity, a temperature range of 21 to 232 °C and a ceramic-coated air-fryer basket according to the product specifications.
Why this product suits this profile: According to the product description, the 7.1-litre inner pot is designed for up to eight portions. The wider cooking surface can be useful when browning food and preparing larger quantities.
The large capacity is suitable for batch-cooked portions and family meals, rather than requiring several small batches. An anti-rotation function is designed to keep the inner pot stable while stirring.
Seven cooking functions, more than ten listed safety features, plus a dishwasher-safe lid and stainless-steel inner pot according to the product description.
Energy consumption depends not only on the wattage, but also on the cooking time, quantity and programme. A small 500-watt multicooker may be suitable for individual portions. For larger quantities, a more powerful model may shorten preparation time. Manufacturer claims such as “up to 80 per cent less energy” refer to specific comparison scenarios and do not automatically apply to every dish.
This calculation can help you make a fair comparison:
Cost = power in kilowatts × operating time in hours × electricity price per kilowatt-hour
Also take the heating-up and pressure-release phases into account. The keep-warm function should not be left running unnecessarily long, as it increases energy consumption.
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.
For two people, 1.8 to 3.8 litres is often sufficient. If you regularly cook meals in advance for several days, a 5.7-litre multicooker may still be a sensible choice despite having a small household. Also plan for the storage space required and the minimum filling level.
Its lifespan depends on how it is used, how well it is maintained and whether replacement parts are available. Clean the sealing ring, lid and steam outlet according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Check the ring regularly for cracks or deformation, and do not use the appliance if the lid lock or pressure indicator does not work reliably.
That depends on which functions you actually use. If you regularly cook rice, steam food, slow-cook dishes and pressure-cook meals, a combination appliance can save worktop space. If you only prepare crispy foods, a separate air fryer may be more practical. Compare the range of functions, capacity, cleaning requirements and energy consumption rather than looking only at the purchase price.