Comparison: The Best Slow Cooker (Updated | Dec 9th)
Tired of coming home to a cold kitchen and hungry family? A slow cooker might just be your new best friend, transforming tough cuts into mouthwatering meals while you’re busy living life. But with so many options simmering on store shelves, how do you choose the perfect one? We’ve done the legwork, testing top models to find the crème de la crème of slow cookers. Whether you’re a meal prep pro or a set-it-and-forget-it beginner, we’ll help you discover the ideal pot to revolutionize your dinner routine.
Editor’s Choice
Best for a specific purpose
- Best for generous capacity: 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 smart programmable: Crock-Pot Large 8-Quart Programmable Slow Cooker with Auto Warm Setting Black Stainless Steel
- Best for party perfect: Hamilton Beach Slow Cooker
- Best for travel-ready design: Crock-Pot 7-Quart Slow Cooker
- Best for secure transport: Crock-Pot 6 Quart Cook & Carry Programmable Slow Cooker with Digital Timer Stainless Steel (CPSCVC60LL-S) pack of 1
- Best for compact casserole: Crock-Pot Small 2.5 Quart Casserole Slow Cooker in White/Blue
- Best for precision cooking: Hamilton Beach Portable 6 Quart Set & Forget Digital Programmable Slow Cooker with Lid Lock
- Best for premium versatility: All-Clad Stainless Steel Electric Slow Cooker 7-Quart
- Best for multi-function wonder: Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker
Product Comparison: The Best Slow Cooker
Generous 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
Ultimate Multi-Cooker
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
Ninja
- 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.
Smart Programmable
Crock-Pot Large 8-Quart Programmable Slow Cooker with Auto Warm Setting Black Stainless Steel
Crock-Pot
- 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.
Party Perfect
Hamilton Beach Slow Cooker, Extra Large 10 Quart, Stay or Go Portable With Lid Lock, Dishwasher Safe Crock, Black (33195)
Hamilton Beach
- 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.
Travel-Ready Design
Crock-Pot 7-Quart Slow Cooker, Portable Programmable with Timer, Locking Lid, Stainless Steel; an Essential Kitchen Appliance, Perfect for Families and Gatherings
Crock-Pot
- 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.
Secure Transport
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
Compact Casserole
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.
Precision Cooking
Hamilton Beach Portable 6 Quart Set & Forget Digital Programmable Slow Cooker with Lid Lock, Temperature Probe, Dishwasher Safe Crock & Lid, Stainless Steel (33969A)
Hamilton Beach
- 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.
Premium Versatility
All-Clad Stainless Steel Electric Slow Cooker 7-Quart, Programmable LCD Timer, Aluminum Insert, Slow Cookers, Small Kitchen Appliances, Silver
All-Clad
- FAMILY-SIZED CAPACITY: This slow cooker holds 7 quarts of food, perfect for cooking your family and friends their favorite dishes.
- 4 PRESET MODES: Features three slow cooking modes (Low, High, High/Low) and an automatic keep warm function keeping your food hot for six hours.
- MULTI-FUNCTIONAL SLOW COOKER:A removable cast aluminum insert with nonstick ceramic coating that can be used on the cooktop, in the oven or for serving.
- INTUITIVE LCD SCREEN: Monitor your cooking with the user-friendly digital screen of this slow cooker that displays your cooking mode and time.
- CONVENIENT COOKING EXPERIENCE: Experience the convenience of maintaining heat and moisture with the stainless-steel lid. Enjoy hassle-free cleanup with the dishwasher-safe insert, making post-cooking cleaning effortless.
Multi-Function Wonder
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
- 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
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 should I look for when buying a slow cooker?
Consider the size based on your household needs, typically ranging from 3 to 8 quarts. Look for programmable settings, a keep-warm function, and a removable, dishwasher-safe pot for easy cleaning.
How do manual and programmable slow cookers compare?
Manual slow cookers are simpler with basic low, high, and warm settings, while programmable models offer timers and automatic shut-off. Programmable options are ideal for busy schedules, but manual models are often more affordable.
Are oval or round slow cookers better?
Oval slow cookers are better for larger cuts of meat like roasts or whole chickens, while round models work well for soups, stews, and smaller batches. Choose based on the types of dishes you plan to cook most often.
What features add the most value to a slow cooker?
A locking lid is great for transport, while a sear function allows you to brown meat directly in the pot. Delay-start timers and multiple heat settings also enhance convenience and versatility.
How do I determine the right capacity for my needs?
A 3-4 quart slow cooker suits 1-2 people, while 6-7 quarts are ideal for families of 4-6. For large gatherings or batch cooking, an 8-quart model provides ample space.
Are expensive slow cookers worth the investment?
Higher-priced models often offer advanced features like multiple cooking modes and better build quality. If you cook frequently or need specialized functions, the investment can pay off in convenience and durability.
What’s the difference between a slow cooker and a multi-cooker?
A slow cooker specializes in low-and-slow cooking, while a multi-cooker combines slow cooking with pressure cooking, sautéing, and more. Multi-cookers are versatile but may lack the simplicity of a dedicated slow cooker.
How do I clean and maintain my slow cooker?
Most slow cooker pots are removable and dishwasher-safe, but always check the manufacturer’s guidelines. Avoid abrasive cleaners on the heating base to prevent damage.
Can I leave a slow cooker unattended?
Yes, slow cookers are designed for safe, unattended cooking, especially models with automatic keep-warm or shut-off features. Ensure the appliance is on a stable, heat-resistant surface and away from flammable items.