Comparison: Best Small Slow Cookers (Updated | Oct 22nd)
Looking for the perfect small slow cooker for solo meals, couples, or side dishes? Size matters when it comes to slow cooking, and a smaller appliance can be surprisingly versatile. This comparison explores some of the best small slow cookers on the market, highlighting their key features, pros, and cons. We’ll delve into aspects like capacity, temperature control, ease of cleaning, and overall performance to help you find the ideal slow cooker to suit your needs and kitchen. Let’s dive in and discover the best small slow cooker for you!
Editor’s Choice
Best for a specific purpose
-
Best for best overall:
Crockpot 2-Quart Classic Slow Cooker Small Slow Cooker Black -
Best for best budget:
Elite Gourmet MST-250XS Electric Slow Cooker Ceramic Pot -
Best for simple and reliable:
Crockpot Manual 3-Quart Slow Cooker Silver -
Best for casserole style:
Crock-Pot Small 2.5 Quart Casserole Slow Cooker in White/Blue -
Best for large capacity:
Crock-Pot 7 Quart Oval Manual Slow Cooker -
Best for programmable options:
Hamilton Beach 4 Quart Programmable Slow Cooker with Flexible Easy Programming -
Best for cook & carry:
Crock-Pot 6 Quart Cook & Carry Programmable Slow Cooker with Digital Timer Stainless Steel (CPSCVC60LL-S) pack of 1 -
Best for multi-functional:
Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker -
Best for compact design:
Elite Gourmet MST-275XS Electric Oval Slow Cooker -
Best for perfect for singles:
bella Electric Slow Cooker 1.5 Qt
Product Comparison: Best Small Slow Cookers
Best Overall
Crockpot 2-Quart Classic Slow Cooker Small Slow Cooker Black
Crock-Pot
- 3 Manual Heat Settings: Choose from high, low, and warm, for cooking flexibility no matter what you're making
- 2-Quart Capacity: Feeds 2+ people and is perfectly sized for preparing small meals, dips, and sides
- Keep Warm Setting: The manual warm setting allows you to keep your food at serving temperature when it's time to eat
- Oven-Safe Stoneware: Removable stoneware is oven-safe up to 400 degrees F
- Dishwasher-Safe: Stoneware and lid are both dishwasher-safe, for easy cleaning
- Modern Look: Sleek black finish
Best Budget
Elite Gourmet MST-250XS Electric Slow Cooker Ceramic Pot, Adjustable Temp, Entrees, Sauces, Stews & Dips, Dishwasher Safe Glass Lid & Crock, 1.5 Quart, Stainless Steel
Elite Gourmet
- PERSONAL 1.5 QUART slow cooker makes cooking fork-tender roasts and poultry a breeze. Cool-touch handles and knob protect hands and allow you to safely transport your slow cooker.
- ADJUSTABLE SETTINGS with versatile Low / High / Keep Warm settings, gives you ultimate control of meal preparation. Simply set it and forget it while you continue on with your busy day, entertain guests or prepare other dishes.
- FAST, EASY CLEAN-UP with our dishwasher-safe clear tempered glass lid and removable oval stoneware pot. The stainless steel exterior heating base can be wiped clean with a damp cloth to maintain its pristine appearance.
- STAINLESS STEEL FINISH for a sleek and stylish design, plus rust-proof and easy to clean.
- TRUSTED BRAND – As a trusted brand for 40 years, Elite Gourmet has delivered high quality and stylish kitchen products that are affordable & user friendly. Call, email, or live chat with us, our US-based support team responds quickly to all inquiries.
Simple and Reliable
Crockpot Manual 3-Quart Slow Cooker Silver
Crock-Pot
- Serves 3+ people
- 3-quart capacity
- HIGH/LOW cook settings
- Convenient WARM setting
- Removable round stoneware
- Dishwasher-safe stoneware and glass lid
- Polished silver, stainless steel exterior with black accents and plastic handles
Casserole Style
Crock-Pot Small 2.5 Quart Casserole Slow Cooker in White/Blue, Enjoy Eye-Catching Quick Meals, Durable and Compact
Crock-Pot
- Compact 2.5 Quart Capacity: Perfect for dinners, potlucks and parties
- Oven-Safe Stoneware: Removable and casserole-shaped for easy serving
- High, Low and Warm Settings: Precision cooking and keeping food warm
- Cook & Carry locking lid system: For hassle-free and neat transportation
- Dishwasher Safe: Stoneware and lid for easy clean-up
- Robust Material: Contains Aluminum, Stainless Steel for durability
- Versatility: Great for make-ahead meals, entertaining, and when conventional oven space is limited.
Large Capacity
Crock-Pot 7 Quart Oval Manual Slow Cooker, Stainless Steel (SCV700-S-BR), Versatile Cookware for Large Families or Entertaining
Crock-Pot
- Generous Capacity: 7-quart slow cooker that comfortably serves 9+ people or fits a 7-pound roast
- Cooking Flexibility: High or low slow cooking settings, with convenient warm function for ideal serving temperature
- Convenient: Set it and forget it feature enables you to cook while at work or performing daily tasks
- Minimal Clean-Up: One-pot cooking reduces dishes; lid and removable stoneware are dishwasher safe
- Versatile: Removable stoneware insert can be used in the microwave or an oven up to 400°F
- Stylish: Stainless steel exterior with black accents and practical plastic handles
- Economical & Healthy: Provides a cost-efficient way to prepare nutritious, home-cooked meals
Programmable Options
Hamilton Beach 4 Quart Programmable Slow Cooker with Flexible Easy Programming, 5 Cooking Times, Dishwasher-Safe Crock & Lid, Silver (33443)
Hamilton Beach
- VERSATILE COOKING WITH 15 PROGRAMMABLE OPTIONS: Mix and match warm, low or high heat settings with your choice of 2, 4, 6, 8 or 10 hours of cooking time.
- SET IT AND FORGET IT: The programmable slow cooker automatically switches to keep warm after cooking is complete. No watching or stirring needed. You can set it and forget it.
- PERFECT FOR FAMILY MEALS, POTLUCKS AND PARTIES: The 4 quart slow cooker has a stoneware crock that can fit a variety of foods, from lasagna and desserts to meat. It will hold a 4 lb. chicken or a 2 lb. roast. Serves 4 plus people.
- EASY TO CARRY: This Hamilton Beach slow cooker has full-grip handles that make it easy to carry.
- EASY TO CLEAN: This Hamilton Beach slow cooker has a removable stoneware crock and glass lid that are dishwasher safe, and the touchpad easily wipes clean.
Cook & Carry
Crock-Pot 6 Quart Cook & Carry Programmable Slow Cooker with Digital Timer Stainless Steel (CPSCVC60LL-S) pack of 1
Crock-Pot
- Programmable Digital Timer: Control cooking times from 30 minutes up to 20 hours
- Serve a Crowd: 6 quart Cook & Carry Slow Cooker serves 7 plus people
- Locking Lid: Lid gasket provides extra seal for less mess during transport
- Interactive Cooking: Safe for use in oven up to 400 degree F, and microwave
- Worry-free Travel: Secure locking lid and rubber gasket prevent spills
- Material: Contains Aluminum, Stainless Steel (Iron, Chromium, Nickel, Manganese, Copper, Phosphorus)
- Environmentally Friendly: Energy efficient at 240 Watts at 120V A.C; and 60Hz
Multi-functional
Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker, Slow Cooker, Rice, Steamer, Sauté, Yogurt Maker, Warmer & Sterilizer, Includes App With Over 800 Recipes, Stainless Steel, 6 Quart
Instant Pot
- 7 Cooking Functions: Pressure cook, slow cook, sauté, steam, make rice, yogurt, or simply keep your meal warm—all in one appliance
- Customizable Smart Programs: Tackle every recipe with 13 one-touch options, from hearty soups to decadent cakes
- Safe & Easy Steam Release: The Easy-Release steam switch ensures fast, safe, and simple steam release every time
- Good Food Done Faster: Cook up to 70% faster compared to slow cooking methods
- Pro-Grade Cooking Pot: Crafted from stainless steel (18/8) with a tri-ply bottom—perfect for searing and sautéing like a pro
- Family-Sized Capacity: The 6-quart capacity is perfect for up to 6 servings—ideal for families, meal prep, and batch cooking
- Quick Cleanup: No more fighting about who has to do the dishes. The dishwasher-safe lid and inner pot make clean-up a breeze
- Power-Packed Performance: 1000 watts, 120 V 60 Hz, UL & ULC Listed
Compact Design
Elite Gourmet MST-275XS Electric Oval Slow Cooker, Adjustable Temp, Entrees, Sauces, Stews & Dips, Dishwasher Safe Glass Lid & Crock (2 Quart, Stainless Steel)
Elite Gourmet
- PERSONAL 2 QUART slow cooker makes cooking fork-tender roasts and poultry a breeze. Cool-touch handles and knob protect hands and allow you to safely transport your slow cooker.
- ADJUSTABLE SETTINGS with versatile Low / High / Keep Warm settings, gives you ultimate control of meal preparation. Simply set it and forget it while you continue on with your busy day, entertain guests or prepare other dishes.
- FAST, EASY CLEAN-UP with our dishwasher-safe clear tempered glass lid and removable oval stoneware pot. The exterior heating base can be wiped clean with a damp cloth to maintain its pristine appearance.
- STAINLESS STEEL FINISH for a sleek and stylish design, plus rust-proof and easy to clean.
- ETL LISTED for your safety, 120 Watts, 1 YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY and U.S. based customer support team means you can buy with confidence.
Perfect for Singles
bella Electric Slow Cooker 1.5 Qt, Dishwasher Safe Removable Stoneware Pot and Glass Lid, Adjustable Temperature & Cool Touch Handles, Portable Mini Rice Cooker, Baby Food Steamer & Soup Warmer, Black
BELLA
- Perfectly Sized for Petite Options: Enjoy cooking small meals effortlessly with the BELLA 1.5qt slow cooker and mini crock pot. Its compact size is ideal for solo dining or cozy gatherings, making it a useful kitchen essential for many occasions
- Customizable Cooking Convenience: With three temperature control settings, Low, High, and Warm, you can cook your meals just the way you like them. From slow-cooked stews to quick appetizers, our simmer pot adapts to your culinary needs with ease
- Party Food Warmer: Keep your guests always satisfied with tasty appetizers like queso, spinach dip, or personal-size chili, served directly from the removable stoneware pot. The Warm setting ensures your dishes stay heated until it's time to serve
- Safety First: Designed with cool-touch side handles and knobs, the BELLA mini rice pot and multi cooker prioritizes your safety while cooking and serving. Say goodbye to burns and hello to hassle-free entertaining
- Effortless Cleanup: After the party's over, cleaning up is a breeze with the dishwasher-safe stoneware pot and tempered glass lid. Spend less time scrubbing and more time enjoying the memories you've made with your BELLA small portable cooker
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.com at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Buying Guide
FAQs
What size slow cooker is best for one or two people?
A slow cooker between 1.5 and 3 quarts is generally suitable for individuals or couples.
What are the benefits of a ceramic pot slow cooker?
Ceramic pots offer even heat distribution and retention, and are easy to clean.
What does "programmable" mean in a slow cooker?
A programmable slow cooker allows you to set a cooking time, after which it automatically switches to a "keep warm" setting.
Is a slow cooker with a locking lid worth it?
A locking lid is beneficial if you plan to transport your slow cooker, preventing spills.
What is the difference between manual and digital slow cookers?
Manual slow cookers have basic low, high, and warm settings, while digital slow cookers offer precise temperature and time control.
Can I use a multi-cooker as a slow cooker?
Yes, many multi-cookers like the Instant Pot have a slow cook function.
Are slow cooker stoneware pots dishwasher safe?
Most stoneware pots are dishwasher safe, but it's best to check the manufacturer's instructions.
What is a casserole slow cooker?
A casserole slow cooker is designed with a rectangular shape, ideal for baking casseroles and similar dishes.