Slow cookers are a popular and versatile kitchen appliance that make it easy to prepare delicious and healthy meals with minimal effort.
They work by cooking food at a consistent, low temperature for a long period of time, allowing flavors to develop and resulting in tender, fall-apart dishes. Slow cookers are perfect for busy individuals or families, as they can be set in the morning and have a meal ready by dinner time.
There are several key factors to consider when looking for the best slow cooker. These include size, heat settings, cooking functions, ease of use, and durability.
Size is important, as larger slow cookers are suitable for families and gatherings, while smaller ones are perfect for individuals or couples. Heat settings and cooking functions allow for greater control and versatility, letting you adapt your slow cooker to the specific needs of your dishes.
To help you find the perfect slow cooker, we carefully assessed a wide range of products, focusing on functionality, performance, and user experience.
We spent countless hours researching and testing various slow cookers to identify the best options for different needs and preferences, ensuring that every recommendation is backed by thorough evaluations.
So, what are the best slow cookers available in the market? Let’s dive into our top picks and explore the unique features and benefits that set them apart, making your decision-making process easier and more informed.
Top Slow Cookers of 2023
We’ve curated the ultimate list of the best slow cookers for you.
Crock-Pot 8 Quart Slow Cooker
We highly recommend the Crock-Pot 8 Quart Slow Cooker for its exceptional performance, stylish design, and convenient features, making it a must-have kitchen appliance.
Pros
- Large 8-quart capacity for feeding 10+ people
- Digital timer with up to 20 hours countdown
- Auto warm setting after cooking completion
Cons
- Bulky size makes it difficult to clean and transport
- No built-in lid holder
- Settings reset with brief power outages
Our recent experience with the Crock-Pot 8 Quart Slow Cooker was nothing short of fantastic. Its ample capacity allowed us to easily cook a large meal for our entire family, plus guests, without any hassle. The digital timer takes the guesswork out of slow cooking, ensuring that our dishes are cooked to perfection every time.
One downside, however, is the bulky size of the slow cooker. While it is great for feeding a crowd, it does make cleaning and storing the appliance a bit more challenging. Despite this minor drawback, we were also impressed with the auto warm setting. This feature keeps our food at the perfect temperature once cooking is complete – no more cold dinners!
In conclusion, the Crock-Pot 8 Quart Slow Cooker is an exceptional appliance that offers a perfect blend of style, performance, and convenience for any home cook. With its large capacity, digital timer, and auto warm setting, it’s an invaluable addition to any kitchen.
Hamilton Beach 10-Quart Slow Cooker
Get ready to simplify large meals with this Hamilton Beach 10-quart slow cooker that’s perfect for families and gatherings.
Pros
- Extra-large 10-quart capacity
- 3 temperature settings
- Clip-tight sealed lid for mess-free transportation
Cons
- High setting may run hotter than expected
- No light indicator for cooking mode
- Heavier at 15.66 pounds
We recently cooked a big family dinner using the Hamilton Beach 10-Quart Slow Cooker, and it didn’t disappoint us! Its extra-large capacity is perfect for feeding a crowd, comfortably fitting anything from a 10-pound turkey to a 12-pound roast.
Using the three temperature settings, we cooked our meal on low and switched to the warm setting when it was done. The clip-tight sealed lid made it easy to transport the slow cooker to the dining table without any spills or mess, and the full-grip handles made carrying it a breeze.
The stoneware crock and glass lid are dishwasher safe, making cleanup quick and hassle-free. We noticed that the high setting might run a bit hotter than expected, so be cautious when using it. There’s no light indicator for cooking mode, but after a few uses, you’ll get the hang of it. Overall, this Hamilton Beach slow cooker is a versatile and user-friendly choice for large meals or gatherings.
Crock-Pot 7 Quart Portable Slow Cooker with MyTime Technology
Upgrade your kitchen arsenal with this versatile and customizable slow cooker, great for busy households!
Pros
- MyTime Technology for personalized cooking times
- Locking lid ensures spill-free transport
- Generous 7-quart capacity for large meals
Cons
- No programmable start time
- Some users may find the controls slightly tricky initially
- May not be suitable for the smallest of kitchens
Last week, we prepared a delicious pot roast dinner using the Crock-Pot 7 Quart Portable Slow Cooker. From the moment we unboxed this splendid appliance, we knew it would become a staple in our kitchen. The stainless steel design not only looks sleek but is also easy to clean.
What stood out the most for us was the MyTime Technology that allowed us to customize the cooking duration. We simply input the time we wanted our meal to be ready, and our slow cooker took care of the rest. No more guessing game with traditional cook hours! The result was a tender, juicy, and perfectly cooked roast.
Another feature we absolutely loved was the locking lid, which made transporting our fabulous meals to potlucks and parties a breeze. No more worrying about messy spills in the car! With its generous 7-quart capacity, one pot can easily serve the whole family or guests. Though we wished it had a programmable start time, the customizable cooking cycle more than made up for it. Overall, we highly recommend the Crock-Pot 7 Quart Portable Slow Cooker to anyone looking to simplify and elevate their home cooking experience.
Wolf Gourmet Programmable 6-in-1 Multi Cooker
If you’re looking for a versatile and high-quality slow cooker, the Wolf Gourmet Multi Cooker with Temperature Probe is an excellent choice.
Pros
- Customizable heat settings and cooking times
- Precise temperature control for sautéing and searing
- Efficient sous vide functionality
Cons
- Higher price point compared to other slow cookers
- On the heavier side at 27.5 pounds
- May be too large for small kitchen spaces
We recently used the Wolf Gourmet Programmable 6-in-1 Multi Cooker and were genuinely impressed by its versatility and performance. Whether we were sautéing vegetables or slow cooking a hearty stew, the temperature control was consistent and precise.
One of the standout features is the sous vide functionality. Using the included temperature probe, we were able to cook delicate foods like fish and steak to our preferred doneness, achieving restaurant-quality results. We also appreciated the rice cooking mode, which flawlessly cooked 6-18 cups of rice without any issues.
Despite its higher price point and larger size, the Wolf Gourmet Programmable Multi Cooker is a worthy investment for dedicated home chefs. Its versatile cooking modes, precise temperature control, and durable stainless steel construction make it an essential addition to any kitchen.
Ninja Foodi PossibleCooker PRO 8.5 Quart Multi-Cooker
Upgrade your kitchen with this versatile multi-cooker, perfect for both daily meals and entertaining guests.
Pros
- Replaces numerous kitchen tools and appliances
- Sear and sauté directly in the pot
- Oven safe to 500°F for crispy finishes
Cons
- Bulky size can take up counter space
- Limited temperature control options for slow cooker
- Hand-washing pot recommended for longevity
We’ve been using the Ninja Foodi PossibleCooker for a while, and it’s quickly become our favorite kitchen appliance. The ability to replace multiple cooking tools not only saves us space but also simplifies meal prep. From searing proteins to sautéing veggies, everything can be done right in the pot!
Last night, we made a delicious chili for a small gathering, and the 8.5-quart capacity allowed us to cook enough for everyone. Plus, the glass lid made it easy to monitor our dish without lifting the lid and releasing moisture. We’ve even baked a mouthwatering casserole, taking advantage of the oven-safe feature.
While we adore this multi-cooker, it does have a few drawbacks. Its size can be a bit overwhelming on a small countertop, and we wish there were more temperature control options in slow cooker mode. Regardless, the Ninja Foodi PossibleCooker has made our home cooking experience more enjoyable and efficient – we highly recommend it.
Hamilton Beach Portable 6 Quart Set & Forget Digital Programmable Slow Cooker
The Hamilton Beach Set & Forget Slow Cooker is a must-have for making delicious, perfectly cooked meals with minimal fuss.
Pros
- Smart technology for precise cooking
- Patented temperature probe for large cuts of meat
- Clip-tight gasket lid for secure transport
Cons
- Electronics may seem cheap
- Insufficient instructions included
- Lid attachment points appear flimsy
We recently used the Hamilton Beach Set & Forget Slow Cooker for a potluck, and we were thoroughly impressed. The smart technology, which allows you to cook your meal to a specific temperature or time, is an excellent feature that ensures your food is cooked just right.
The temperature probe is another fantastic addition. We inserted it into a large chicken, and it cooked to perfection. The display on the control panel showed the food’s exact temperature as it cooked, making it foolproof for those less experienced in the kitchen.
Our only concerns were the seemingly cheap electronics and the insufficient instructions provided. However, during our use, the electronics worked perfectly and the slow cooker performed exactly as it should. In conclusion, the Hamilton Beach Set & Forget Slow Cooker is an excellent investment for those looking to enhance their home-cooked meals with minimal effort.
Crock-Pot 6-Quart Cook & Carry Programmable Slow Cooker
We highly recommend the Crock-Pot 6-Quart Cook & Carry Programmable Slow Cooker for its ease of use, portability, and reliable cooking performance.
Pros
- Portable and secure locking lid for mess-free transport
- Customizable cooking time and temperature settings
- Dishwasher safe components for easy cleanup
Cons
- May boil on the low setting, requiring cooking time adjustments
- Lid might crack under certain circumstances
- Designed for use in the United States and Canada
After using the Crock-Pot 6-Quart Cook & Carry Programmable Slow Cooker, we were impressed by its user-friendly digital panel and secure locking lid. The customizable cooking time and temperature options allowed us to create perfectly cooked meals, and the automatic shift to “Warm” kept our dishes at just the right temperature for serving.
However, we noticed that the slow cooker sometimes boils on the low setting, so you may need to adjust your cooking time to ensure your dish turns out as intended. Also, be cautious with the lid, as it might crack under certain conditions.
Despite these drawbacks, the Crock-Pot 6-Quart Cook & Carry Programmable Slow Cooker is a reliable and convenient appliance that’s perfect for potlucks, tailgating, family gatherings, or everyday cooking at home. With its dishwasher-safe components, it’s also a breeze to clean up after preparing a delicious meal.
Crock-Pot 7-Quart Oval Manual Slow Cooker
The Crock-Pot 7-Quart Oval Manual Slow Cooker is a must-have for families and entertainers alike, thanks to its large capacity, simplicity, and outstanding performance.
Pros
- Large 7-quart capacity perfect for families and entertaining
- Simple and easy to use with manual controls
- Keeps food warm and ready to serve with the WARM setting
Cons
- Lacks features such as timers and advanced settings
- Unsteady with only 3 legs on the bottom
- Stone insert not suitable for all slow cooker brands
We recently tried the Crock-Pot 7-Quart Oval Manual Slow Cooker and were pleasantly surprised by its performance. Its spacious capacity easily accommodated a 7-pound roast, making it perfect for larger gatherings or meal prep on the weekends.
The simplicity of this slow cooker is one of its main advantages. The manual control makes it easy to set cooking times and temperature, and the WARM setting ensures that your food stays at the ideal serving temperature until you’re ready to eat. However, this could also be a drawback for some users who prefer additional features like built-in timers or advanced settings.
In our experience, the Crock-Pot 7-Quart Oval Manual Slow Cooker performed well, and its simplicity made it a joy to use. However, it may not be suitable for those who want a more feature-packed slow cooker or those who need a stone insert compatible with other slow cooker brands. Nonetheless, its large capacity and reliable performance make it an excellent option for families and entertainers alike.
Crock-Pot MyTime 6-Quart Programmable Slow Cooker
Transform your mealtime experience with the Crock-Pot MyTime 6-Quart Programmable Slow Cooker, perfect for those with busy schedules.
Pros
- MyTime Technology for automatic cooking adjustments
- Customizable settings for precise results
- User-friendly manual cooking option
Cons
- Limited LED screen contrast
- May require learning curve for programming
- Bulky design
Recently, we tried the Crock-Pot MyTime programmable slow cooker and found it to be a game-changer in our kitchen. Our favorite feature is the MyTime technology, which cleverly adjusts cooking cycles so meals are ready exactly when we want them to be. No more worrying about overcooked or mushy dishes due to shifting to the “Keep Warm” setting – our meals always come out just right.
Another winning feature is its customizable controls, which allow us to choose food type, amount, and desired mealtime. This ensures our meals are cooked precisely to our preferences, whether it’s a roast, soup, or sauce. We also appreciate the sleek, intuitive design with digital countdown controls, so we can easily monitor meal progress and make adjustments as needed on the fly.
Despite these advantages, the slow cooker does have some drawbacks. First, the LED screen is sometimes hard to read due to poor contrast. Additionally, there is a learning curve when it comes to programming the MyTime settings, although, with patience and practice, that becomes less of an issue. Finally, the cooker’s size makes it slightly bulkier than some other models we’ve used.
All-Clad Electrics Stainless Steel Slow Cooker
Discover the ideal slow cooker for your busy lifestyle: the All-Clad Electrics Stainless Steel Slow Cooker.
Pros
- Large 6.5-quart capacity for family-sized meals
- Programmable cooking times for flexible scheduling
- Easy-to-clean dishwasher-safe insert and lid
Cons
- Higher price point compared to other slow cookers
- Limited to three main settings
- No “keep warm” function
After using the All-Clad Electrics Slow Cooker at home, we found it worth the investment. Its large 6.5-quart oval-shaped capacity made it perfect for feeding the entire family or entertaining guests. The black ceramic insert is not only removable, but it can also go straight to the table for serving, making dinner parties or potlucks a breeze.
The digital display and push-button controls make it easy to program cooking times, accommodating schedules both tight and relaxed. We found the 26-hour complete cycle time helpful for meals that require longer cooking times for optimal flavor.
One of our favorite features was the easy-to-grip integrated handles and the glass lid, which locks in heat and moisture while allowing us to monitor our dishes. The dishwasher-safe insert and lid made cleanup a snap, giving us more time to enjoy our delicious slow-cooked meals. The All-Clad Electrics Stainless Steel Slow Cooker, though more expensive than some other options, delivered a superior cooking experience that made us feel like experts in our kitchen.
Buying Guide
When selecting the perfect slow cooker, it’s essential to consider several factors to ensure you get the most out of your investment. In this buying guide, we’ll outline the key features to look for and provide helpful tips for making your decision.
Size and Capacity
Your slow cooker’s size and capacity should depend on the number of people you regularly cook for and the amount of available counter space. Large families or those who cook for social events may need a larger slow cooker, while smaller households can usually do with a smaller size.
Temperature Settings
Choose a slow cooker with customizable temperature settings, including a “keep warm” function. This allows you to maintain your food’s warmth after cooking without overcooking it, which is perfect for serving later or during parties.
Programmable Features
Advanced slow cookers offer programmable features that allow you to set the cooking time and temperature, ensuring precise results without you having to monitor the cooking process constantly.
Easy-to-Clean Materials
An ideal slow cooker should have an easily removable and dishwasher-safe insert made of materials such as ceramic or stainless steel. This will make cleaning after use a breeze.
Extra Features
Some slow cookers come with added features like a built-in searing or browning function, allowing you to achieve a good sear on your ingredients before slow cooking, enhancing the dish’s flavors. Others include helpful extras like a locking lid for easy transportation or a digital display to keep track of cooking time.
Remember:
- Consider the number of people you cook for and available counter space
- Look for multiple temperature settings and programmable features
- Choose easy-to-clean materials and added features for convenience
By keeping these factors in mind, you’ll be well-equipped to make an informed decision and find the perfect slow cooker for your needs.
