I used to think all pressure cookers were the same. That changed when I tested the Instant Pot Duo Plus vs Pro. These two helped me cook faster, easier meals—and sometimes even better ones. Whether I had little time or wanted slow, tasty food, both models did well. But knowing which to choose took time and testing.
I used both, read the guides, and made real meals. I had wins (and spills). In this guide, I’ll share what I liked, what I didn’t, and what matters most. If you’re unsure which model fits you best, let’s figure it out together.
Table of Contents
Instant Pot Duo Plus Review
I’ve been testing Instant Pot cookers in real home meals, from weeknight rice to big-batch soups. I’m sharing what felt smooth, what felt odd, and what I’d tell a friend before they buy.
What I Like
I’ve cooked enough “set it and hope” meals to know when a tool really helps. These are the things I keep coming back to with Instant Pot as a brand.
- It saves my attention, not just my time. I can load the pot, lock the lid, and step away. That’s huge on busy nights when my brain is already full.
- Fast pressure release feels calmer and safer. The steam switch is far from the valve, so my hands stay away from the blast zone. It feels less like a jump-scare and more like a normal step.
- Soups and broths taste deep and rich. The ham bone soup came out dark and bold, like it simmered all day. It’s like getting “slow-cooked flavor” without babysitting a stove.
- The brand’s recipe ecosystem is helpful. I like that many Instant Pot recipes are easy to share or save. When a dish hits, it’s simple to repeat it later.
- Great for batch cooking and leftovers. I can make a full pot and eat for days. It’s like cooking once and buying time back for later.
- It handles different meal styles well. Rice, soup, pasta, and Thai-style soup all worked. That range is why people stick with Instant Pot.
What Could Be Better
I still like Instant Pot overall, but a few things can trip you up. These are fixable with small tweaks and the right expectations.
- Pressure build time is real time. “8 minutes” cooking can mean more like 17–30 minutes total. It’s not a deal breaker, but you should plan for it.
- Thick sauces can trigger a burn warning. One rice-and-salsa style meal threw a “food burn” message during preheat. I’d rather see clearer guidance from the brand on layering sauces and liquids.
- Starchy foods can leave a stubborn layer. Rice can stick and need a soak. It’s normal, but a bit annoying if you want a quick cleanup.
- Some setups can feel light or simple. The included rack works, but it can feel flimsy. Instant Pot has many add-ons, but I wish the basic setup felt more “ready” for steaming layers.
- The pot can shift while stirring. When mixing pasta or cheese, the inner pot can spin. It’s not a deal breaker, but I notice it every time.
My Personal Experience
I’ve been using Instant Pot-style cookers long enough to trust them for real meals, not just “test runs.” Over time, I learned what they do best, and where they need a little help from the cook.
Design
The design matters most when you’re tired and hungry. This is where Instant Pot feels like a steady kitchen buddy.
Instant Pot keeps things simple: clear buttons, a clear lid lock, and obvious safety cues. I also like that the steam release is easier to manage than older pressure cookers. It feels like the brand grew up with its users. Less drama. More dinner.
The best part is how it fits real life. It sits on the counter like a small appliance that earns its space. Not flashy. Just useful.
Performance
Performance is where Instant Pot wins people over. It’s not magic, but it can feel like it’s in the right recipe.
When it hits, it really hits. The Thai coconut shrimp soup was the kind of meal that makes you pause mid-bite. The flavor came out bright, rich, and layered. It felt like the pot held the flavors close, like a sealed room that keeps all the good smells inside.
And the chicken cook was spot on. Tender. Not dry. That matters, because dry chicken is the fastest way to turn dinner into “fine, I’ll eat cereal.”
The one performance hiccup is the burn warning with thicker mixes. But once I treat sauces with respect, add enough liquid, and avoid heavy stirring at the wrong time, it behaves.
Build Quality
Build quality is not just about metal and weight. It’s also about trust. Can I count on it on a cold night when I want soup now?
Instant Pot feels dependable as a brand. The lid lock, the pressure cues, and the “don’t open” warnings do their job. Even when you cancel a cook, it still reminds you the pot is under pressure. That’s the kind of boring safety I love.
The inner pot cleanup can be a little messy with starch. But the core parts feel made for regular use. It’s like a good pair of work shoes. You may scuff them, but they keep showing up and doing the job.
Instant Pot Pro Review
I’ve been testing the Instant Pot Pro for over a year now. I’ve made everything from soups to yogurt. It’s been a real joy to use. If you’re thinking about getting one, this review will help.
What I Like
These are the things that make me love using the Instant Pot Pro. They save time, help me cook better, and make the whole process easier.
- Faster Cooking With Pressure
This model gets to pressure faster than the older ones. That means I spend less time waiting and more time eating. Great for busy nights! - Steam Release Button is Safer
No need to touch the valve. Just press a button. I feel much safer, and it’s less scary for new users. - I Can Save My Favorite Settings
I’ve set Button #2 for my steel-cut oats. I just press and go in the morning— even before my coffee! - Handles That Stay Cool
The pot has handles that don’t get hot. I can lift it with care, even when it’s full. No more burnt fingers. - Better Control While Sautéing
I can pick from five heat levels. I leave mine on 4. If things get too hot, I can turn it down fast—just like a stove. - Great For Rice, Yogurt, and Steaming
My rice comes out light and fluffy. My yogurt passes the spoon test. And it’s perfect for a quick steam of veggies.
What Could Be Better
No product is perfect, but these are small things. They don’t take away from how good this cooker is.
- Slow Cook Settings Need Tweaks
I had to play with the time and temp to get it right. It works well for me now, but be ready to test it a bit. - No Zero Minute Cook Time
I used to set zero minutes to steam things like broccoli. Now I just watch as it comes to pressure, then release. It’s a small fix. - The Beeping Sound is High
At first, it bugged me. It’s louder than the other models. But you can mute it in the settings, which I did. Easy fix!
My Personal Experience
I have been using Instant Pots for over two years. I use them several times a week. I’m not a chef—I’m just someone who loves to cook good food fast.
Design
The design is clean, modern, and smart.
It fits well in my kitchen and looks nice on the counter. The control panel feels easy to use, even for new cooks. I love the five custom buttons. I use them to save time, and it feels like the pot knows what I love to cook. The pot itself has a flat bottom and cool-touch handles, which is smart thinking.
Performance
This is what makes me excited to cook again.
Soup, chili, rice—you name it. This cooker makes food fast and tasty. It reaches pressure quicker than my last one. That means less waiting and less stress. I never worry about food coming out uneven. Each meal feels like a win.
Build Quality
Solid. That’s the word that comes to mind.
It feels strong, safe, and well-made. The pot inside is thick steel, and the lid locks with ease. Even two years in, it still looks new. The cool-touch handles, auto-seal lid, and sturdy parts all show good care in the build. I don’t feel like I’m using a cheap machine—it feels like a tool I can trust.
Instant Pot Duo Plus vs Instant Pot Pro – Full Comparison Table
I’ve been testing both the Instant Pot Duo Plus and Instant Pot Pro in my kitchen, and I’ve learned a lot. These two multi-cookers have many things in common, but also some key differences that might help you decide which one is best for your needs. Below is a friendly, honest comparison to guide you.
| Category | Feature | Instant Pot Duo Plus | Instant Pot Pro |
| Material & Durability | Inner Pot | Stainless steel | Upgraded stainless steel with anti-spin base |
| Exterior | Brushed steel | Matte finish, more premium feel | |
| Handles on Pot | No | Yes (safe and sturdy) | |
| Rating | 8/10 | 9.5/10 | |
| Design & Size | Size (6 Quart) | 13.4″ x 12.2″ x 12.9″ | 13″ x 12.7″ x 12.8″ |
| Display Style | Button-based | Dial + digital screen | |
| Aesthetic Appeal | Classic Instant Pot look | Sleek and sturdy | |
| Rating | 8/10 | 9/10 | |
| Capacity | Main Capacity | 6 Quarts | 6 Quarts |
| Other Sizes Available | 3, 8 Quart options | 8 Quart version also available | |
| Rating | 9/10 | 9/10 | |
| Cooking Functions | Number of Modes | 9 functions | 10 functions |
| Examples | Pressure Cook, Steam, Saute, Rice, Yogurt | All Duo Plus modes + Bake + Better Saute | |
| Custom Programs | No | Yes (5 saving slots) | |
| Rating | 8.5/10 | 9.5/10 | |
| Cooking Speed | Preheat Time | Moderate | Faster (about 20% quicker) |
| Release Options | Quick, Manual | Quick + Custom Timer Alerts | |
| Rating | 8/10 | 9.5/10 | |
| Keep Warm Feature | Keep Warm Mode | Automatic (Basic) | Adjustable with memory |
| Rating | 8.5/10 | 9/10 | |
| Inner Pot Coating | Non-stick Coating | No | No |
| Easy to Clean | Yes | Easier (flat bottom) | |
| Rating | 7.5/10 | 9/10 | |
| Wattage & Voltage | Wattage | 1000 Watts | 1200 Watts |
| Voltage | 120V / 60Hz | 120V / 60Hz | |
| Rating | 8/10 | 9/10 | |
| Ease of Use | User Interface | Buttons | Dial + Screen |
| Preset Memory | No | Yes | |
| Beep Customization | No | Yes (can mute) | |
| Rating | 8/10 | 9.5/10 | |
| Price & Warranty | Price Range (6qt) | $139 USD | $99–$169 USD (sale-dependent) |
| Warranty | 1 Year | 1 Year | |
| Rating | 9/10 | 8.5/10 |
Final Thoughts
The Instant Pot Duo Plus is perfect for someone who wants a solid pressure cooker without all the bells and whistles. It gets the job done, and it’s reliable.
The Instant Pot Pro steps things up. It cooks faster, gives you more control, and makes daily use feel easier. The inner pot is the unsung hero—it’s easy to grab, clean, and even use on the stove.
If you love cooking, or want more smart features, the Pro might be worth the higher price. But if you’re new to pressure cooking, the Duo Plus is a great starting point without being confusing.
FAQ: Instant Pot Duo Plus vs Pro
1. Is the Instant Pot Pro better than the Duo Plus?
The Pro offers more control, heats faster, and has a better pot. The Duo Plus is great too, just simpler. Learn more about which one fits your needs.
2. What’s the main difference between Duo Plus and Pro?
The Pro has better build, faster heat-up, and lets you save custom presets. The Duo Plus is more beginner-friendly. Learn how they compare in real use.
3. Can I use the Instant Pot Duo Plus manual for the Pro model?
Not fully. Each model has different features. It’s best to use the right guide for each. Learn more about the differences in how they work.
4. Is the Instant Pot Pro good for daily use?
Yes, it’s fast, safe, and gives you more cooking control. It works great for both quick meals and big batches. Learn how it handles real-life cooking.
5. Which Instant Pot is easier for beginners?
The Duo Plus is easier to learn for first-timers. The Pro has more tools but needs time to master. Learn which is better for your cooking style.