The 6 Qt Vs 8 Qt Instant Pot dilemma is a common kitchen question. Do you choose the popular standard size, or opt for the larger capacity electric pressure cooker? It can be a tough decision.
I faced this myself, wondering which electric Instant Pot best fits my cooking style. That is why we will go into a few details below on the two different Instant Pot sizes, and help you make a better decision based on what suits you better. Read on for more!
Jump to:
- 6 Qt Vs 8 Qt Instant Pot - What is the Difference?
- Instant Pot Models
- The Case for the 6-Quart Instant Pot
- The 8-Quart: When Size Matters
- Accessories
- Don't Forget the "Mini" – the 3-Quart Option
- Advanced Models & Features – Beyond the Basics
- Real User Experiences & Comparisons
- Maintenance and Longevity
- The "RIO" – A New Contender?
- FAQ's
- Conclusion
6 Qt Vs 8 Qt Instant Pot - What is the Difference?
The main difference is capacity. The 6-quart Instant Pot is often suggested for families of 3-5 people.
The 8-quart model is better for feeding 6+ people, or those who enjoy leftovers. The additional functions help those users make the most of their device.
You can prep meals or large recipes for your family, which might require more than a 6-quart capacity. With the smaller 6-quart size, you are limited in what you can cook. This includes many popular pressure cookers like the Instant Pot.
Cooking Space & Practicality
It’s not just about total volume. Think about the shape of the food you’re cooking. For example, meal prep might need more space.
A whole chicken or large roast fits better in an 8-quart Instant Pot. This also leads to better cooking because there is more room. Additionally, the size of the pot can affect cooking times, especially for thicker cuts of meat.
The "Footprint" Factor
Size also plays a very important role in determining where you can comfortably store your Instant Pot. The 6-quart Instant Pot, with its more compact design, is a great fit for countertops, making it an excellent choice for those with limited counter space. This size is ideal for quick access and convenient cooking sessions without rearranging your entire kitchen.
On the other hand, the 8-quart model, while offering greater cooking capacity, is taller and heavier, which can pose a challenge when trying to tuck it under a kitchen cupboard. It's perfect for those who don't mind dedicating a bit more storage space for the benefit of cooking larger meals.
And if you're considering models with an air fryer lid, be prepared for additional height and weight, adding a bit of a workout to your daily cooking routine! Whether you opt for the 6-quart or 8-quart Instant Pot, each comes with its own set of advantages, so choose the one that best aligns with your kitchen setup.
Instant Pot Models
Size isn’t the only thing to think about. The variety of model options, even within one size, can be overwhelming.
The stainless steel inner pot is an important component as it affects the volume capacity and the types of dishes you can prepare. The 6-quart Instant Pot Duo Plus 9-in-1 is popular. It’s seen as a versatile, entry-level model.
Features to Consider
- Pressure Cooking: This is the main function. High and low-pressure options provide flexibility.
- Slow Cooking: Not all models are effective at slow cooking. Check reviews for this feature.
- Sautéing: Use this for browning meat before pressure cooking.
- Specialty Functions: These include yogurt making, cake baking, or sterilizing. Think about whether you’ll actually use these.
- Yogurt Maker: The yogurt maker function simplifies the process of making yogurt at home.
Related: How To Make Yogurt In Instant Pot Without Yogurt Button
The Case for the 6-Quart Instant Pot
The 6 qt. is often called the “standard” size. It is seen as the best all-around size for first-time users, as it was for me. The size of the pot can affect the cooking time, with larger pots potentially requiring adjustments based on the type and amount of food.
Advantages of the 6-Quart
- More Compact: It's easier to store and potentially easier to clean. Some parts are dishwasher safe, but check the manual.
- Faster Heating: Smaller volume means it reaches pressure faster, which is great for busy weeknights.
- Widely Available: More accessories and recipes are available for this size.
The 8-Quart: When Size Matters
Choosing the 8-quart Instant Pot has real benefits. The size of the pot can affect the cooking time, as larger pots may require more time for pressure buildup and cooking. It’s important to explore these before making a decision. The pot size dictates the types of Instant Pot recipes you can easily make.
I sometimes cook for family events. Having an 8-quart capacity is helpful because I can use two devices to double the output.
The 8-quart Instant Pot Duo Plus 9-in-1 is great for preparing food for larger groups.
Benefits of Going Bigger:
- Leftover Potential: Perfect for meal prepping. Make a large quantity of soup or shredded chicken, then freeze it for future meals.
- Accommodates Large Cuts: Easily fit whole chickens, roasts, and ribs. There's less need to chop things to fit.
- Entertaining-Friendly: No need for multiple batches when hosting.
Accessories
The right accessories can improve your cooking methods. The Instant Pot's slow cooker function adds to its ability as a multi-cooker. Both 6-quart and 8-quart models benefit from these additions.
They open up new cooking possibilities.
Essential Add-Ons
- Steamer basket: Such as this Instant Pot Official Silicone Steamer Basket. Great for vegetables, fish, or hard-boiled eggs.
- Glass lids: A glass lid is perfect for slow cooking, warming food, or serving.
- There's a glass lid for the 6 qt., and one for the 3 qt.
- Extra Sealing Rings: Sealing rings can hold odors. Having separate rings for savory and sweet dishes is useful.
Also read: Understanding Instant Pot Settings And Instructions
Don't Forget the "Mini" – the 3-Quart Option
The 3-quart Instant Pot is surprisingly useful, even for those who already own larger models like the 6-quart and 8-quart versions. Initially, it might seem unnecessary, but it becomes an important part of meal preparation, especially for smaller items such as vegetables.
The built-in smart programs increase its purpose. The 3-quart model is lightweight and serves as an excellent "assistant" device for meal prep.
Consider the mini 3-quart size. If you need a smaller option, the 3-quart Instant Pot Duo Plus 9-in-1 is affordable, at around $100.
When to consider this compact size
- Small households: Perfect for one person, a couple, or as a space-saving appliance.
- Side Dishes: My 3 qt. model didn't cook rice faster, but it looked great for serving.
- Specific Tasks: Great for yogurt, proofing bread, or melting chocolate (using the pot-in-pot method.).
Check out these delicious recipes: All Instant Pot Recipes | Mains, Sides, Vegan, Keto, Gluten-Free
Advanced Models & Features – Beyond the Basics
The "Duo" model is widely discussed, but there's more. Instant Pot's innovation continues beyond this popular option. Different pressure cooker models have features others do not.
Stepping Up in Features
It’s more than just different sizes. When choosing electric pressure cookers, it's important to consider the right size and features. Instant Pot offers models with specialized features. Here’s a table to better visualize it:
| Model | Key Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Instant Pot Pro | Sous Vide Function | Precise Cooking |
| Instant Pot Duo Crisp | Air Frying | Adds crispiness |
| Smart Models | WiFi Connectivity | Control with an App |
- Instant Pot Pro. The Instant Pot Pro 10-in-1, has a sous vide feature for precise cooking. It also includes a “cake maker” function.
- Air Frying Models: These add crispiness to your cooking capabilities. The Instant Pot Duo Crisp 11-in-1 Air Fryer and Electric Pressure Cooker Combo combines air frying with the usual Instant Pot functions. Consider getting the ultimate lid.
- Smart Models: Certain models offer WiFi, so you can control cooking through an app.
Real User Experiences & Comparisons
Recommendations are valuable. My experience with Instant Pots helps, but I also considered feedback from users who have compared models:
The Size Debate
Choosing between Duo models depends on various factors. Many popular models often get compared, so this is worth exploring deeper.
One factor that is worth considering is how much you cook at once. The Instant Pot Duo Plus 8-Quart Multi-Use Pressure Cooker is often favored for its size. Many also look for features including slow cooking.
On the other hand, the Instant Pot Duo Mini 3-Quart Pressure Cooker offers the full range of Instant Pot functions in a compact size, perfect for counter use and storage.
Maintenance and Longevity
Instant Pots are durable appliances. Proper care is very important to ensure they last.
Keeping it Clean
- Regular Cleaning: The inner pot, lid, and sealing ring are usually dishwasher safe, reducing the need to do manual cleaning.
- Dealing with Odors: Soak the sealing ring in vinegar if it absorbs strong smells. Or you can use separate rings for different types of dishes.
- Replacing Parts: The sealing ring may need replacing after a year or two, particularly with frequent use.
The "RIO" – A New Contender?
Instant Pot introduced the "RIO" model in 2022. This is a refresh of what was previously called the "DUO."
It features energy-saving elements and an improved body for easier user control. Currently, you can find the Instant Pot RIO on Amazon. The control panel is highly rated.
FAQ's
No, both sizes have similar cooking times. However, the 8 qt Instant Pot takes longer to pressurize due to the larger volume of liquid required.
The 8 qt Instant Pot is better for meal prepping since it can cook larger portions at once, making it ideal for batch cooking and freezing meals.
Yes, but you may need to adjust liquid amounts. The 8 qt Instant Pot requires a minimum of 2 cups of liquid, while the 6 qt Instant Pot only needs 1 cup.
Conclusion
The choice between a 6 Qt and the 8 Qt Instant Pot depends on your needs. There's no single best option. You will want to consider your cooking style, the number of people you cook for, and your available counter and storage space. Either one you choose, let me assure you that you will never look at cooking the same way again! Happy pressure cooking!
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