A multi-cooker with pressure cooker function can combine pressure cooking, steaming, searing and slow cooking in one appliance. This could save worktop space and reduce the washing-up. However, models vary considerably in capacity, ease of use, safety features and cleaning requirements.
If you focus only on a long list of programmes or promises of significant time savings, you could miss important details. The points below will help you choose an electric pressure cooker or multi-function cooker that suits your household.
A 6-litre pressure cooker does not automatically hold 6 litres of food. You need to leave space when pressure cooking for safety. The Cecotec Programmable Cooker Model D has a stated internal capacity of 6 litres, but a usable capacity of 5 litres, according to the product details. This matters when planning soups, stews or meal-prep portions.
When choosing a 6-litre pressure cooker, check:
A programmable cooker may offer plenty of menus, but could be missing useful functions such as manual time and pressure settings. If you often cook your own recipes, look for multiple pressure settings, a freely adjustable cooking time and a clear display.
You should also check carefully what is meant by multi-cooker with air fryer. Some appliances need a second lid for the hot-air function. This adds versatility but takes up extra storage space. Other models have no hot-air frying function at all, despite being advertised as multi-function appliances.
Pressure cookers use hot steam and must not be forced open while pressure is building. Important features include a secure lid lock, controlled steam release and overpressure protection. Check the product description and instruction manual for the specific features of each model.
Cleaning matters, too. Is the inner pot dishwasher-safe? Can you remove the sealing ring, lid and steam outlet? A fiddly clean-up can make an appliance much less convenient day to day.
A compact appliance of around 3.8 litres may be enough for one person or a couple. Families and anyone who regularly meal-preps may prefer a capacity of 5.7 to 6 litres. A 7.6-litre model could be useful for larger quantities or entertaining. Remember to check the appliance’s external dimensions and allow space for the lids, too.
A traditional induction-compatible pressure cooker is used directly on the hob. According to the product details, models such as the ZWILLING EcoQuick II and Fissler Vitaquick have bases suitable for different hob types, including induction. However, they require a separate hob and do not offer the automatic programmes found on an electric multi-cooker.
An electric pressure cooker, on the other hand, needs a power socket. Depending on the model, it can control cooking time, temperature or pressure automatically. This can be handy in a small kitchen, but you’ll need to make room for it on your worktop.
18/10 stainless steel is used in several traditional pressure cookers. Features you can check objectively include the stated material, base construction, diameter, pressure settings and availability of spare parts. For example, two pressure settings let you adjust the cooking to suit different ingredients and results.
For automatic appliances, these features are also worth considering:
Treat manufacturer claims about faster or more energy-efficient cooking as guidelines. Actual energy use depends on factors such as the recipe, quantity, preheating time and electricity tariff.
Why this product suits this profile: This 5.7-litre appliance combines pressure cooking, slow cooking, searing, steaming, yoghurt-making and keeping food warm in one appliance.
The product details list specific programmes and more than ten safety features, including overheating protection and a locking lid.
5.7-litre inner pot, stainless steel and dishwasher-safe parts, according to the product description.
Why this product suits this profile: This traditional pressure cooker is designed for households that value induction compatibility, stainless steel and manual pressure control.
The product details state a 6-litre capacity, two cooking settings, a Superthermic base and a locking indicator.
18/10 stainless steel, induction compatibility and a removable handle, according to the product description.
Why this product suits this profile: With pressure cooker and air fryer lids, this appliance is suited to larger quantities, crispy food and a range of cooking methods.
The two removable lids make it clear how the pressure and hot-air functions work. However, the extra lid needs storage space.
7.6-litre capacity, stainless steel inner pot and a temperature range of 21 to 232 °C, according to the product details.
Why this product suits this profile: Nine menus, a 24-hour timer and two pressure settings help families and busy professionals plan meals ahead.
The product details distinguish between a 6-litre internal capacity and a usable capacity of 5 litres. They also list twelve safety systems.
Timer, nine cooking menus, frying function and pressure settings up to 60 kPa, according to the manufacturer.
We’ve put together a complete, regularly updated list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and fully comply with the safety regulations in force in the EU.
An electric multi-cooker usually sits on the worktop, independently of the hob. With a traditional pressure cooker, the product details must explicitly state that its base is suitable for induction. Descriptions such as “suitable for all hob types” usually include induction, but check the details for the specific model.
Its lifespan depends on how often you use it, and how well you clean and maintain it. Check the sealing ring, steam outlet and valves regularly. If parts become worn, it’s important to use original or compatible replacements. Only open the lid once all the pressure has been released.
Pressure cooking can reduce the cooking time for certain foods. Whether this actually saves electricity or energy depends on the amount of food, recipe, appliance and preheating time. For a fair comparison, consider the entire cooking process, not just the advertised cooking time.