Choosing the right multicooker can be challenging with so many options on the market. The Instant Pot Duo and Instant Pot Duo Plus are two popular models, each offering a range of cooking functions and features. This comparison will help you understand their differences and decide which one suits your cooking style and household size.
Whether you need a compact appliance for small meals or a versatile cooker with advanced features, this full comparison covers everything you need to know about both models.
At a Glance
Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 Mini Electric Pressure Cooker
- ✔ Capacity: 3 Quarts
- ✔ Power: 700W
- ✔ Functions: 7
Instant Pot Duo Plus 9-in-1 Multicooker
- ✔ Capacity: 6 Quarts
- ✔ Power: 1000W
- ✔ Functions: 9
Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 Mini Electric Pressure Cooker, Slow Rice Cooker, Steamer, Sauté, Yogurt Maker, Warmer & Sterilizer, Includes Free App with over 1900 Recipes, Stainless Steel, 3 Quart
7 Cooking Functions: Pressure cook, slow cook, sauté, steam, make rice, yogurt, or simply keep your meal warm—all...
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Instant Pot Duo vs Instant Pot Duo Plus: Full Breakdown
Instant Pot Duo Plus 9-in-1 Multicooker, Pressure Cooker, Slow Cook, Rice Maker, Steamer, Sauté, Yogurt, Warmer & Sterilizer, Includes App with Over 800 Recipes, Stainless Steel, 6 Quarts
9 Cooking Functions: Pressure cook, slow cook, sauté, sous vide, steam, sterilize, keep warm, make rice and yogurt—all...
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Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 Mini Electric Pressure Cooker
The Instant Pot Duo offers a compact 3-quart size with 7 versatile functions, making it perfect for singles, couples, or small servings. Its stainless steel construction and dishwasher-safe parts ensure easy cleanup. While it lacks some advanced features, it provides reliable performance for everyday cooking.
Pros:
- Compact size fits small spaces
- 7-in-1 functionality
- Fast cooking times
- Dishwasher-safe parts
Cons:
- Limited 3-quart capacity
- Fewer smart programs
- No sous vide or sterilize functions
Best for: Small households, side dishes, quick meals
Not ideal for: Large families or those seeking advanced features
Bottom line: A compact, reliable option for small-scale cooking needs.
Instant Pot Duo Plus 9-in-1 Multicooker
The Instant Pot Duo Plus features a 6-quart capacity and 9 cooking functions, including sous vide and sterilize options. Its intuitive display and 15 smart programs make it easy to prepare a wide variety of dishes. It’s an excellent choice for those who want more versatility and capacity in one appliance.
Pros:
- Larger 6-quart capacity
- 9-in-1 functions including sous vide
- 15 smart programs
- Easy-to-read display
Cons:
- Slightly larger footprint
- Higher price
- Longer learning curve for advanced features
Best for: Large families, advanced cooks, meal prep
Not ideal for: Small households or minimalists
Bottom line: A highly versatile multicooker suited for larger households and more complex recipes.
| Feature | Instant Pot Duo | Instant Pot Duo Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 3 Quarts | 6 Quarts |
| Functions | 7-in-1 | 9-in-1 |
| App Support | Over 1900 recipes | Over 800 recipes |
| Display | Basic with indicator | Intuitive digital |
| Size | Mini | Standard |
| Power | 700W | 1000W |
The Verdict
For small households or side dishes, the Duo is compact and reliable. The Duo Plus suits larger families or those desiring advanced features and greater capacity.
Choosing the Right Instant Pot for Your Needs
If you’re cooking for one or two, the Duo’s smaller size and simpler interface make it a practical choice. For larger families or if you want more cooking versatility, the Duo Plus offers expanded functions like sous vide, sterilize, and a larger capacity, streamlining your kitchen needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I upgrade from the Duo to the Duo Plus?
No, these are separate models with different capacities and features. Upgrading typically involves purchasing the Duo Plus separately.
Is the dishwasher safe on both models?
Yes, both models feature dishwasher-safe lids and inner pots for easy cleaning.
Does the Duo Plus support sous vide cooking?
Yes, the Duo Plus includes a sous vide function, which is not available on the Duo.
Which model is better for beginners?
The Duo may be more suitable due to its simpler interface and smaller size, but the Duo Plus is also user-friendly with its digital display and smart programs.
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability are accurate as of the time of publishing.
