Comparison: Best Slow-Cooker (Updated | Dec 8th)
Tired of coming home to a hungry family and no dinner in sight? Whether you’re a busy parent or a meal-prep enthusiast, our hands-on testing has uncovered the top performers that deliver mouthwatering meals with minimal effort. From budget-friendly options to high-tech wonders, we’ll help you find the perfect set-it-and-forget-it companion that’ll transform your weeknight dinners and weekend feasts alike.
- Best for family feast maker: Crock-Pot 7 Quart Oval Manual Slow Cooker
- Best for ultimate multi-cooker: Ninja® 12-in-1 PossibleCooker™ PLUS | 8.5-qt – Sous Vide & Proof Multi-Cooker | Slow Cooker
- Best for travel-ready timer: Crock-Pot 6 Quart Cook & Carry Programmable Slow Cooker with Digital Timer Stainless Steel (CPSCVC60LL-S) pack of 1
- Best for holiday host essential: Crock-Pot Large 8-Quart Programmable Slow Cooker with Auto Warm Setting Black Stainless Steel
- Best for extra large capacity: Hamilton Beach Slow Cooker
- Best for smart time control: Crock-Pot 7-Quart Slow Cooker
- Best for compact casserole: Crock-Pot Small 2.5 Quart Casserole Slow Cooker in White/Blue
- Best for precision temperature: Hamilton Beach Portable 6 Quart Set & Forget Digital Programmable Slow Cooker with Lid Lock
- Best for 7-in-1 versatility: Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker
- Best for simple set & forget: Crockpot SCV700-CH-BR Slow Cooker 7 quarts Charcoal
Product Comparison: Best Slow-Cooker
Crock-Pot 7 Quart Oval Manual Slow Cooker, Stainless Steel (SCV700-S-BR), Versatile Cookware for Large Families or Entertaining
- 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
Ninja® 12-in-1 PossibleCooker™ PLUS | 8.5-qt – Sous Vide & Proof Multi-Cooker | Slow Cooker, Dutch Oven & More | Glass Lid & Integrated Spoon | Nonstick | Oven Safe Pot to 500°F | Black | MC1010
- REPLACES 12 COOKING TOOLS & APPLIANCES: This cooker replaces the need for a slow cooker, food warmer, nonstick pot, sauté pan, cast iron skillet, saucier, saucepan, stock pot, Dutch oven, roasting pan, bread maker, and utensil.
- SEAR & SAUTÉ DIRECTLY IN THE POT: Using the bottom heating elements, you are able to sear proteins and sauté vegetables right in the cooking pot—no need to transfer to the stovetop.
- OVEN SAFE TO 500°F: Removable cooking pot is oven safe up to 500°F, so you can finish your meal in the oven for a crispy top.
- PERFECT FOR ENTERTAINING: 8.5-quart cooking capacity allows you to make chili for up to 20 people, 9 lbs of spaghetti and meatballs, or enough pulled pork for 30 sliders.
- TRIPLE FUSION HEAT TECHNOLOGY: Cook up to 30% faster* than conventional ovens by combining bottom, side, and steam heat. More heat, more possibilities. *Tested on 6-lb chickens.
- INCLUDED UTENSIL: Multi-functional utensil works as a ladle and pasta fork, plus it has its own utensil rest right in the lid handle.
- 6 COOKING FUNCTIONS: Slow Cook, Sear/Sauté, Keep Warm, Sous Vide, Braise, and Proof.
- EASY CLEANUP: Nonstick pot enables you to quickly wipe away messes and makes for a stress-free cleaning experience. Utensil & glass lid are dishwasher safe. Hand-washing pot recommended to extend its life.
- SAFE & EASY TO USE: Free of PFOA, cadmium, and lead.
- WHAT’S INCLUDED: 8.5-Quart Cooking Pot, PossibleCooker Base Unit, Integrated Detachable Spoon-Ladle, Glass Cooking Lid, Chef Curated Recipe Guide.
Crock-Pot 6 Quart Cook & Carry Programmable Slow Cooker with Digital Timer Stainless Steel (CPSCVC60LL-S) pack of 1
- 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
Crock-Pot Large 8-Quart Programmable Slow Cooker with Auto Warm Setting Black Stainless Steel
- Cooking Capacity: Prepares food for over 10 people, making it a holiday dinner hosting essential.
- Digital Timer: Counts down cooking time up to 20 hours for easy monitoring.
- Auto Warm: Automatically keeps food warm after cooking for optimal serving temperature.
- Easy Cleanup: Features a removable, dishwasher-safe lid and stoneware pot for convenient cleaning.
- Memory Function: Resets to previous settings in case of a power outage.
- Elegant Design: Black stainless steel finish is stylish, easy to clean, and fits any kitchen decor.
Hamilton Beach Slow Cooker, Extra Large 10 Quart, Stay or Go Portable With Lid Lock, Dishwasher Safe Crock, Black (33195)
- PERFECT FOR A LARGE GATHERING: The 10 quart slow cooker lets you cook enough food for a gathering of 12 or more people and fits a 10 lb. turkey or a 12 lb. roast.
- REDUCE SPILLS: The lid clips tightly to the slow cooker handles to reduce messy spills when transporting food. Carry hot meals to family gatherings, potlucks or to serve at the table without worrying about spills.
- COOK FLAVORFUL MEALS WITH MINIMAL EFFORT: This Hamilton Beach slow cooker has simple controls that make it easy for you to create flavorful meals with minimal effort and great results. Just turn the dial. No watching needed.
- MAINTAIN THE IDEAL TEMPERATURE WITH 3 HEAT SETTINGS: Just turn the dial to choose from 3 heat settings. Cook your meal on Low or High, and then switch to Warm when cooking is complete for food that’s warm and ready when it’s time to eat.
- EASY TO CARRY WITH FULL-GRIP HANDLES: The large slow cooker is easy to lift and hold onto when carrying to the table to serve a meal or when taking food to gatherings.
- SIMPLE TO CLEAN: The removable stoneware crock and glass lid are dishwasher safe for easy cleanup.
Crock-Pot 7-Quart Slow Cooker, Portable Programmable with Timer, Locking Lid, Stainless Steel; an Essential Kitchen Appliance, Perfect for Families and Gatherings
- Personalized Cooking: MyTime adjusts the cooking cycle so your meal is ready exactly when you want it
- Leak-proof Lid: Travel-proof locking lid provides a tight seal to prevent leaks and spills
- Large Capacity: Fitted with a 7-quart bowl that serves 7+ people – perfect for families or gatherings
- Temperature Control: Auto-adjustment cooking cycle ensures meals are never overcooked but always flavor-filled
- Intuitive Control: Flat digital control screen lets you schedule meal times, and manually control cook time and temperature
- Convenient Handles: ‘Cook and Carry’ handles for hassle-free lifting and carrying
- Sustainable Materials: Made of Aluminum, Stainless Steel (Iron, Chromium, Nickel, Manganese, Copper, Phosphorus), and is 100% recyclable.
Crock-Pot Small 2.5 Quart Casserole Slow Cooker in White/Blue, Enjoy Eye-Catching Quick Meals, Durable and Compact
- 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.
Hamilton Beach Portable 6 Quart Set & Forget Digital Programmable Slow Cooker with Lid Lock, Temperature Probe, Dishwasher Safe Crock & Lid, Stainless Steel (33969A)
- NOT YOUR MOM’S SLOW COOKER: Smart technology allows you to cook a recipe to either a desired cooking time or specific temperature, before automatically switching to Warm when it’s done.
- PATENTED TEMPERATURE PROBE: Place the temperature probe into large cuts of meat to cook to a precise temperature. The control panel will display the food’s exact temperature as it cooks.
- CLIP-TIGHT GASKET LID: The lid clips securely in place, perfect for taking the slow cooker to a party, potluck or tailgate. The tight seal helps prevent messy spills along the way.
- EASY TO CLEAN: Removable and dishwasher safe crock and glass lid make cleanup simple.
- 6 QUART CAPACITY: Spacious size is perfect for a 6 lb. chicken or 4 lb. roast.
- YOUR CHOICE COOKING: Three smart settings – probe, program and manual – allow you to cook foods to a specific temperature, for a set number of hours or on High, Low or Warm settings for up to 24 hrs
- POWER INTERRUPT PROTECTION: During a momentary power interruption of 5 seconds or less, the slow cooker will remember the programmed heat and time settings and continue cooking.
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
- 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
- Proven Peace of Mind: Features over 10 safety mechanisms, including overheat protection, an easy seal safety lid lock, and more to keep cooking worry-free
- A Little Extra: Includes a stainless steel steamer rack to keep you ready for anything
Crockpot SCV700-CH-BR Slow Cooker 7 quarts Charcoal
- Spacious 7-quart manual slow cooker serves 8+ people or fits a 6-lb. roast
- Set cooking time to high and get a hot meal in no time or set it on low and tonight’s dinner can cook while you’re at work
- Keep food at an ideal serving temperature for as long as you need to with the convenient warm setting
- One-pot cooking means there are less dishes to clean, plus the lid and removable stoneware are dishwasher safe
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’s the difference between a slow cooker and a Crock-Pot?
Crock-Pot is a brand name that has become synonymous with slow cookers, much like Kleenex is for tissues. While all Crock-Pots are slow cookers, not all slow cookers are made by the Crock-Pot brand. Functionally, they operate on the same principle of low-and-slow cooking, but features and performance can vary between different brands and models.
What size slow cooker do I need for my family?
A 3-4 quart slow cooker is ideal for singles or couples, while a 5-6 quart size is perfect for an average family of four. For larger families, batch cooking, or making big roasts, you should consider a 7-8 quart model. It’s often better to have a little extra capacity than to not have enough.
Are programmable slow cookers worth the extra cost?
Yes, for most people, a programmable model offers significant convenience and peace of mind. It allows you to set a specific cook time, after which the machine automatically switches to a ‘keep warm’ setting. This prevents your food from overcooking if you’re stuck in traffic or held up at work.
What key features should I look for when comparing models?
Beyond programmability, look for a model with a warm setting, a secure-fitting lid, and a removable, dishwasher-safe stoneware insert for easy cleanup. Some advanced models offer searing functions, temperature probes, or digital timers. Consider which of these features align with your cooking style.
What does ‘keep warm’ mean and is it important?
The ‘keep warm’ function automatically switches on after the programmed cooking time is complete. It maintains the food at a safe, serving-ready temperature without continuing to cook it. This is a crucial feature for flexibility, ensuring your meal is perfectly cooked and hot whenever you’re ready to eat.
Should I choose a model with a locking lid?
A locking lid is an excellent feature if you plan to transport your slow cooker to potlucks, parties, or family gatherings. It prevents messy spills and keeps the heat in during travel. For everyday home use, it’s less critical, but it can still provide a more secure seal.
How do oval and round slow cookers compare?
The shape you choose depends on what you cook most often. Round slow cookers are great for soups, stews, and chilis. Oval models are more versatile, as their shape is better suited for cooking larger cuts of meat like roasts, whole chickens, or racks of ribs.
What’s the benefit of a slow cooker with a searing function?
A searing function allows the pot to get hot enough to brown meat directly in the base before you begin slow cooking. This eliminates the need to use a separate pan on the stove, saving you time and cleanup. Searing meat adds a deeper, richer flavor to your final dish.
