Instant Pot Duo vs Plus: Which One Should You Buy?
Tired of endless kitchen gadgets cluttering your countertops? Enter the world of Instant Pots, the multi-cookers that have taken the culinary world by storm! But with so many models, choosing the right one can be overwhelming. Today, we’re diving deep into a head-to-head comparison to help you make the perfect choice: the Instant Pot Duo vs Plus.
Both the Instant Pot Duo and Plus promise to simplify your cooking life, offering functions like pressure cooking, slow cooking, and more. They are designed to save you time and effort in the kitchen. Understanding the subtle differences between these two popular models is key to unlocking their full potential and finding the best fit for your needs.
We’ll explore their features, performance, and value, guiding you toward the Instant Pot that best suits your cooking style and budget. Get ready to discover which Instant Pot reigns supreme in this detailed comparison of the Duo and the Plus. Let’s get cooking!
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | Duo | Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Size Options | 3, 6, 8-quart | 3, 6, 8-quart |
| Smart Programs | 11 | 13 |
| Pressure Cook | Yes | Yes |
| Slow Cook | Yes | Yes |
| Sauté | Yes | Yes |
| Steam | Yes | Yes |
| Keep Warm | Yes | Yes |
| Yogurt Maker | Yes | Yes |
| Cake/Egg Program | No | Yes |
| Sterilize Program | No | Yes |
| Display | LED | LCD |
| Altitude Adjustment | No | Yes |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Cooking Programs/Presets
- Instant Pot Duo: Offers a variety of pre-programmed settings for common dishes like rice, soup, and meat. These presets simplify cooking for beginners, but may limit customization.
- Plus: Includes all the Duo’s presets, and adds a few more, offering slightly more options for specific recipes. It retains ease of use but provides a touch more flexibility.
- Winner: Plus
Display & Interface
- Instant Pot Duo: Features a basic LED display and a simple control panel. It’s easy to understand but may lack some advanced features found in newer models.
- Plus: Upgrades the display and interface, potentially offering a larger and more informative display. This can improve the user experience by making settings easier to see and adjust.
- Winner: Plus
Pressure Settings
- Instant Pot Duo: Provides high and low pressure settings, which are standard for most pressure cookers. This allows for a good range of cooking options.
- Plus: Likely offers the same high and low pressure settings as the Duo, ensuring compatibility with most recipes. The core pressure cooking functionality is consistent.
- Winner: Tie
Additional Features
- Instant Pot Duo: May have basic features like a keep-warm function and a delayed start timer, which are common for convenience.
- Plus: Might include additional features like sous vide capabilities, cake making, or other specialized functions. This expands the versatility of the appliance.
- Winner: Plus
Size/Capacity Options
- Instant Pot Duo: Available in several sizes, catering to different household needs, ranging from smaller 3-quart to larger 8-quart models.
- Plus: Also comes in various sizes, offering similar flexibility in capacity selection. You should be able to choose the size that fits your needs.
- Winner: Tie
Safety Features
- Instant Pot Duo: Includes standard safety features like lid lock, pressure release valve, and overheat protection. These are essential for safe pressure cooking.
- Plus: Similar to the Duo, the Plus incorporates all the necessary safety features, ensuring user protection during operation.
- Winner: Tie
Construction & Build Quality
- Instant Pot Duo: Generally well-built with a stainless steel inner pot and durable exterior. The quality is reliable for everyday use.
- Plus: Similar build quality to the Duo, using high-quality materials to ensure durability and longevity.
- Winner: Tie
Accessories Included
- Instant Pot Duo: Often includes a steam rack and a ladle, which are common accessories for pressure cookers.
- Plus: May include the same accessories as the Duo, but potentially adds other items, such as a silicone mitt or extra sealing rings.
- Winner: Tie
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Value | Duo |
| Features | Plus |
| Ease of Use | Tie |
| Versatility | Tie |
| Smart Programs | Plus |
What They Have in Common
- Pressure Cooking: Both models offer pressure cooking capabilities, allowing for faster cooking times compared to traditional methods.
- Slow Cooking: Both the Duo and Plus can also function as slow cookers, making them versatile for a wide range of recipes.
- Sauté Function: Both Instant Pots include a sauté function, which is useful for browning ingredients directly in the pot before pressure cooking or slow cooking.
- Keep Warm Setting: Both models feature a keep-warm function, which automatically keeps food at an ideal serving temperature after cooking.
- Multiple Size Options: Both models are available in the same three size options, catering to different household sizes and cooking needs.
Instant Pot Duo Vs Plus Buying Guide
Features Comparison
The Instant Pot Duo and Plus share many core functionalities, including pressure cooking, slow cooking, rice cooking, steaming, and sautéing. However, the Plus offers several upgrades. The Duo is a solid all-around performer, perfect for beginners and those seeking simplicity. It’s user-friendly and handles basic cooking tasks with ease. The Plus, on the other hand, boasts a slightly larger display, more customizable programs, and a few added features like the cake and egg programs. This makes it a better choice for experienced cooks or those who want more control.
Price and Value
The Duo generally comes at a more affordable price point, making it an excellent value for budget-conscious consumers. Its lower cost doesn’t compromise on essential functions, providing a great entry point into multi-cookers. The Plus typically costs a bit more due to its added features and upgrades. While the price difference may not be substantial, it’s worth considering your cooking needs and budget. If you don’t need the extra programs, the Duo offers exceptional value. Consider your long-term cooking goals when making your decision.
User Interface and Ease of Use
Both models are designed for ease of use, with intuitive control panels and pre-programmed settings. The Duo’s interface is straightforward and uncluttered, making it easy to learn and operate quickly. The Plus features a slightly more sophisticated interface, with a larger display that provides more information. This can be beneficial for those who prefer to have more control over their cooking process. Both models include clear instructions and safety features, ensuring a safe and user-friendly experience for all users.
Cooking Programs and Settings
Both the Duo and Plus offer a range of pre-programmed cooking settings for common dishes. These settings take the guesswork out of cooking and simplify the process. The Plus includes a few additional programs, like the cake and egg settings, which cater to specific recipes. The Duo offers a solid selection of programs for everyday cooking needs. While both offer manual settings for customized cooking, the Plus provides a bit more flexibility with its additional pre-sets. Consider which program options meet your cooking style.
Size and Capacity
Both the Duo and Plus are available in various sizes, from 3-quart to 8-quart models. The appropriate size depends on your household size and cooking needs. The 6-quart model is a popular choice, suitable for families of 3-5 people. The larger 8-quart models are ideal for batch cooking or preparing meals for larger groups. Consider the available counter space and storage space when choosing the size. Both models have similar dimensions within their respective size categories, so the choice primarily rests on capacity requirements.
Durability and Build Quality
Both the Duo and Plus are built with high-quality materials, ensuring durability and longevity. The stainless steel inner pot is a common feature, providing even heating and easy cleaning. The exterior construction is also robust, designed to withstand regular use. Instant Pots are known for their reliability, and both models are expected to last for years with proper care. The Plus model may have a slight edge in terms of build quality due to its upgraded components, but both models are generally very well-made.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy instant pot duo If…
- You want a reliable and popular Instant Pot model.
- You are looking for a more affordable option.
- You primarily need the core Instant Pot functions like pressure cooking, slow cooking, and sautéing.
Buy plus If…
- You want additional smart programs like Cake/Egg and Sterilize.
- You prefer a more advanced LCD display.
- You want altitude adjustment for optimal cooking performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main differences between the Duo and Plus?
The Plus offers several enhancements over the Duo, including a larger display, more customizable programs (like cake and egg settings), and potentially a more powerful processor. The Duo focuses on simplicity and affordability, making it easier for beginners. The Plus provides more control and versatility, with a slightly more sophisticated interface and added features.
Which Instant Pot is better for beginners?
The Duo is generally recommended for beginners due to its simplicity and user-friendly interface. It has a straightforward control panel and pre-programmed settings that make it easy to learn and operate. The Duo’s lower price point also makes it an accessible entry point into multi-cookers. The Plus is also easy to use, but the Duo is simpler.
Does the Plus have a yogurt making function?
Yes, the Instant Pot Plus does include a yogurt-making function, allowing you to easily prepare homemade yogurt. This is a feature not found on all Instant Pot models, so it’s a significant advantage for those who enjoy making yogurt. The Duo does not have this specific function. This function can be used to make a variety of yogurt types.
Is the Plus worth the extra cost?
Whether the Plus is worth the extra cost depends on your individual needs and cooking style. If you value the added features, such as the cake and egg programs, or the larger display, the Plus might be a worthwhile investment. If you prefer simplicity and are on a budget, the Duo offers excellent value. Consider your cooking habits.
Are the Duo and Plus easy to clean?
Yes, both the Duo and Plus are designed for easy cleaning. The inner cooking pot is made of stainless steel and is dishwasher-safe. The lid and sealing ring are also easy to remove and clean. Regular cleaning helps maintain the performance and longevity of your Instant Pot, and both models make this process simple. Cleaning is quick and easy.
What sizes are available for each model?
Both the Duo and Plus are available in a variety of sizes, including 3-quart, 6-quart, and 8-quart models. The appropriate size depends on your household size and cooking needs. Consider the number of people you typically cook for and the types of dishes you prepare when selecting the size. Choose a size that suits your needs.
Can I use the Duo and Plus for canning?
No, neither the Duo nor the Plus are specifically designed or approved for canning. While they can be used for pressure cooking, they do not meet the safety requirements for preserving food through canning. It’s important to use proper canning methods to prevent foodborne illnesses. Use only approved canning methods.
Final Verdict
The Instant Pot Duo and Plus are both excellent multi-cookers, each catering to slightly different needs. The Duo excels in simplicity and affordability, making it ideal for beginners. The Plus offers added features and a more customizable experience, appealing to those seeking more control. Choosing between them comes down to personal preference and cooking habits. Both deliver reliable performance and ease of use.
Winner: [Instant Pot Plus]