Instant Pot Duo Plus vs Pro. There is no question that both the Instant Pot Duo Plus and the Pro have convinced numerous home cooks that mealtimes can come without the added stress of headaches. Which instantaneous cooking gadget will win over your heart and stomach once and for all?
In the world of pressure cooking, the Instant Pot Duo Plus and Instant Pot Pro stand out as household names. But beyond their shared instant pot design, what sets these two electrical pressure cookers apart? Join me as I explore the subtle yet significant differences between them to help you make an informed choice.
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Instant Pot Duo Plus versus Pro
When it comes to deciding between the Instant Pot Duo Plus and the Instant Pot Pro, you’re likely to be spoiled for choice. As someone who’s personally tested both instant pots, I know firsthand how difficult it can be to pick the best one for your needs.
While instant pot models share some common ground, there are key differences that set them apart. Let’s take a closer look at how these two models stack up against each other.
Key Differences
The Pro air fryer gives itself an advantage with its exceptional baking capabilities, a feature the Duo Plus sadly lacks. The Instant Pot Duo Evo Plus also highlights improvements made in the newer Instant Pot Pro model. However, adding an air fryer attachment to the Duo Plus can easily expand its functions, closing the gap.
If you’re looking for versatility in your smart programs, the Pro is clearly the way to go, with an impressive 28 one-touch presets. Meanwhile, the Duo Plus trails behind with a respectable 15. If you crave customization, the Pro’s advanced settings might be the better choice.
Features
While both Instant Pot Duo and Duo Plus models have many similarities, including dishwasher-safe components and a handy progress display, the Duo Plus offers some enticing extras, like an innovative anti-spin inner pot and ultra-quiet steam release.
The Instant Pot Pro Plus makes the cook process easier with features such as the ability to adjust time or temperature before cooking and a cooking progress bar to indicate the phase of the cook process.
The inner pot of the Pro’s design is cleverly created to be stovetop-friendly for quick cooking and sauteing tasks. Meanwhile, the updated display screen is noticeably bigger and far easier to read, featuring a central dial for smoothly changing your settings.
Cooking Functions
The Pro’s chops are on full display with its 10 cooking functions, including pressure cook, slow cooking, rice/grain cooking, sauteing, making yogurt, sous vide cooking, keeping food warm, steaming, and baking, making it a versatile electrical pressure cooker.
The Duo Plus, meanwhile, has a strong lineup of its own, with nine functions, although it is missing the baking option.
The Duo Plus really shines with its sterilizing function, perfect for quick cleans of baby bottles, and a built-in sous vide program. In contrast, the Pro can sous vide too, but it’s not a separate one-touch function.
Also read: How Do Instant Pots Cook So Fast?
Sizes
The Pro appliance comes in two size options: 6-quart and 8-quart. If you're looking for something smaller, the Duo Plus is also available in these sizes, plus a compact 3-quart option perfect for tiny kitchens or shared living spaces.
Prices
Roughly speaking, the Pro is priced a notch higher than the Duo Plus. But, savvy shoppers, be on the lookout for special deals on Instant Pots as you might stumble upon a Pro at an unbeatable price.
Instant Pot Duo Plus: An Overview
If you’re looking for a pressure cooker that will make your daily routine easier, the Duo Plus is the best. Trust me; this electric device knows how to get the job done efficiently and deliciously.
Features
The Duo Plus takes the uncertainty out of cooking, providing you with a foolproof way to ensure perfect results. With the touchscreen display, you'll get exact timing updates, allowing you to be part of the meal the entire time.
In my kitchen, messy hands are a reality, which is why I appreciate the genius behind the Instant Pot's fingerprint-resistant exterior. No more constant wiping down - just me, my Instant Pot, and the rush of cooking up a meal for my family and friends.
Cooking Functions
The biggest advantage of the Duo Plus is its incredible range of cooking functions. Capable of everything from slow cooking and pressure cooking to sous vide and even sterilization, this appliance truly has something for every kind of home chef.
You don't need to be a chef master to cook with these brilliant smart programs. With 15 different modes at your disposal, you can whip up everything from fluffy rice to tender soup with the touch of a button.
The best part? No more wondering when your dish will be done as these smart programs take the guesswork out of cooking times and temperatures, so you can sit back and enjoy the fruits of your labor.
Sizes
In its clever design, the Duo Plus comes in three practical capacities: 3 quarts for baking and roasting, 6 quarts for cooking staple meals, and 8 quarts for feeding a small army or for families with teenagers with very big appetites. No matter the occasion, the Duo Plus has got you covered.
Advantages
One of the standout features of the Duo Plus is its updated roster of one-touch cooking programs, which includes sous vide cooking. Combine that with a redesign of the inner pot and improved steam release, and you've got a cooking solution that's nothing short of impressive.
Instant Pot Pro: A Closer Look
The crowning edition within Instant Pot family, the Instant Pot Pro leaves little undone with state-of-the-production features leaving you with no more guesswork on cooking times and which button to push. The cook process is simplified with the ability to adjust time or temperature before cooking and a cooking progress bar to indicate the phase of the cooking process.
Features
The first thing you'll notice about the Pro is its gleaming black stainless steel exterior, where durability and ease of cleaning converge. This dazzling armor of a design keeps fingerprints at bay, even when subjected to daily use.
Straight away, you'll notice the bold display screen, illuminating the room with its bright blue glow. The larger-than-usual screen lets you easily glance at the selected smart program, followed by the cooking progress and status updates thanks to the user-friendly control panel that makes operating the Duo a smooth experience.
Cooking Functions
With this Pro beauty, you can effortlessly pressure cook with the pressure cooker function, gradually slow cook with the slow cooker function, refine your sous vide skills, and even whip up a moist and delicious cake.
With a total of 28 customizable smart programs at your disposal, you'll be experimenting with new recipes and saying goodbye to other kitchen appliances in no time.
The specially designed aluminum layer allows for optimal heat distribution and consistent cooking temperatures, setting the stage for flawlessly seared meats and vegetables.
Sizes
Total kitchen supremacy starts with the 6 quart pro model, designed to satisfy most household needs. But for larger broods or the crowd-loving type of cook, the 8-quart giant takes the crown.
Advantages
The Pro model's sleek and upgraded lid automatically secures itself, ensuring precise pressure cooking results. Additionally, the steam release mechanism has been tweaked to dispense steam in a more tranquil and less noisy manner.
When using the Pro, the five favorite buttons allow you to save your frequently used settings. This is super convenient when making a familiar recipe, like your signature dish.
You'll love the convenient extras that come with the Pro - a spare sealing ring and a stainless steel steamer rack, perfect for hassle-free cooking. And, the silicone-coated handles make lifting the inner pots a cinch.
Cooking Performance: Duo Plus vs Pro
In getting down to brass tacks, I’m here to dish out the dirt on how the Duo Plus and Pro really cook in terms of performance.
The Instant Pot Pro Plus features an advanced cooking process, allowing you to adjust time or temperature before cooking, and includes a cooking progress bar to indicate the phase of the cooking process. I’ve extensively tested both models and let me tell you, I’ve got the scoop:
Pressure Cooking
A quick pressure release is all it takes to get ready for a sumptuous meal with the Duo Plus and Pro, which dishes out succulent meals with the capability to reach high pressures of up to 12 psi.
If you're on the hunt for tender, savory dishes, rest assured that both models get the job done. While the Pro has a unique bonus feature in its supreme-quality inner cooking pot, the temperature distribution yields significantly flavorful meals.
Slow Cooking
When it comes to slow cooking, some Instant Pot models really excel at the task. The Duo Plus and Pro, in particular, have dedicated slow cook functions that closely mimic the experience of using a traditional slow cooker. While you can certainly cook at a low temperature with other Instant Pot models, these two devices take slow cooking up a notch.
In just a few clicks, the Instant Pot does the rest, providing you with delicious cooked meals. For individuals who adore slow-cooked meals like pulled pork and heartwarming stews, these remarkably precise time and temperature controls can easily create a hearty batch with minimal intervention.
Sous Vide
Sous vide cooking has gained popularity in recent years, and for good reason. It allows you to precisely cook foods to a specific temperature, resulting in perfectly cooked meats and veggies every time.
A precision temperature system is just a key press away with the Duo Plus' dedicated sous vide function. But the Pro takes customization up a notch with its "Ultra" program, giving you total control over your cooking endeavors.
Air Frying
The Duo Plus and Pro Instant Pots don't have built-in air frying capabilities, but Instant Pot does offer a separate air fryer lid that's compatible with the 6-quart Duo Plus. Users can use this lid to cook their favorite fried foods with much less oil.
Incredible convenience is what the lid brings to the table. By essentially transforming your Instant Pot into an air fryer, you can cook a wide range of crispy, mouth-watering dishes without the need for a separate appliance. Keep in mind that the Pro model doesn't offer this option currently.
Related: How To Use Instant Pot Air Fryer Features & Functions
Safety Features
In an age where safety in the kitchen is of utmost importance, the Duo Plus and Pro take no chances. With multiple built-in safety features, including overheat protection, a secure locking lid, and automated pressure control, these powerful cookers ensure a safe and stress-free cooking experience every time.
When it comes to safety, the Pro takes it seriously by incorporating a state-of-the-art steam release valve. This ingenious mechanism automatically closes the valve when the lid is securely locked, minimizing the risk of accidental pressure releases.
The edge in cooking performance is a closely contested competition, but I'd give the Pro the slightest nod for its lightning-fast heating, innovative safety features, and custom-programmable settings. The Duo Plus, however, is no slacker and can easily hold its own in the kitchen.
Ease of Use and Convenience: Which Model Wins?
When it comes to the Instant Pot Duo Plus versus the Instant Pot Pro, both models are popular choices within the electric pressure cooker category, offering a range of features designed to make your cooking experience as effortless as possible. But which one truly excels in terms of ease of use and convenience?
Control Panel, Display, Smart Programs, Pressure Release, Delay Start
The Instant Pot Duo Plus features a sleek blue LCD display panel that's easy to read and navigate. It clearly shows the cooking progress indicator, so you always know what stage your meal is at.
The Instant Pot Pro, on the other hand, features a larger LCD screen with even more info like the selected smart programs and temperature.
On both the Duo Plus and Instant Pot Pro models, smart cooking programs abound. The Duo Plus features 15 built-in settings, while the Pro offers 28, giving home cooks a wide range of recipe options to choose from.
Safety is paramount when it comes to cooking meals under pressure. The Instant Pot Duo Plus and Pro both have automatic pressure release features to prevent any mishaps.
The Duo Plus' quiet steam release gradually releases pressure to minimize noise and mess, while the Pro allows you to release pressure naturally or quickly using the steam release valve.
Busy schedules call for convenient features like delay start. Whether you're using the Duo Plus or Pro, you can easily program your Instant Pot to begin cooking at a later time. This is perfect for prepping ingredients in the morning and coming home to a delicious, ready-to-eat meal.
Related: Instant Pot Rio vs Duo: Which One Reigns Supreme?
Design and Durability: A Side-by-Side Comparison
While the Instant Pot Duo Plus and Pro share many similarities under the hood, there are some notable differences in their design and construction as electric pressure cookers:
Materials, Lid Design, Sealing Ring, Pot Size
Both models are crafted with durable stainless steel, ensuring they can withstand frequent use. However, the Instant Pot Pro takes it a step further with a fingerprint-resistant surface that's a breeze to clean. The Pro's inner cooking pot also features an extra-thick aluminum layer for faster, more even heating.
One of the most significant design differences between the Instant Pot Duo Plus vs Pro is the lid. The Duo Plus has a standard manual sealing lid, while the Pro introduces an innovative auto-sealing redesigned lid that automatically locks into place.
The silicone sealing ring is crucial for creating an airtight seal during cooking under pressure. The Duo Plus has a standard ring, while the Pro's is slightly wider and features a quick-release tab for easy removal and cleaning.
When it comes to choosing the right size for your needs, the Instant Pot Duo Plus offers more options in 3-quart, 6-quart, and 8-quart sizes, while the Pro currently only comes in 6-quart and 8-quart versions.
Also read: How To Get Smell Out Of Instant Pot Ring - 5 Easy Hacks
Which Instant Pot is Right for You?
Ready to find your perfect kitchen companion among the various instant pots? Below you will find factors to consider before making your decision:
Budget
If affordability is key, the Duo Plus should be at the top of your list. This incredibly capable kitchen companion has a vast array of features at a price that won't break the bank.
Cooking Needs
Consider how you plan to use your Instant Pot. If you want maximum versatility, the Pro's 28 smart programs offer more pre-set options for specific dishes and ingredients. However, the 15 programs on the Duo Plus are more than enough for most home cooks.
Related: Instant Pot Settings & Buttons Explained (Not Just For Beginners!)
Family Size
The size of your household should influence which Instant Pot model you choose. For smaller families, the 3-quart Duo Plus is a great compact option, while larger families will appreciate the spacious 8-quart size available in both models. Your available kitchen storage space may also determine which size Instant Pot you can accommodate.
Kitchen Space
Consider the space needed for your Instant Pot before making a choice:
| Factor | Instant Pot Duo Plus | Instant Pot Pro |
| Budget | More affordable | Premium price |
| Smart Programs | 15 one-touch options | 28 pre-set options |
| Sizes Available | 3-quart, 6-quart, 8-quart | 6-quart, 8-quart |
FAQ's
Yes, both models function effectively as rice cookers. They provide specific settings for cooking various types of rice, including white and brown rice, ensuring perfect results with the touch of a button.
Yes, the inner cooking pots of Instant Pot models are generally interchangeable, allowing you to use them across different models within the same size range. They are typically made of stainless steel for durability and easy cleaning.
Both models include settings for cooking brown rice, ensuring thorough and even cooking to achieve perfectly tender grains. The Pro's additional presets may offer more tailored options for cooking brown rice based on specific preferences.
Instant Pot models are generally standalone products, each designed with unique features and functionalities. While they share the Instant Brands lineage, they are distinct in their capabilities and intended use, focusing on providing versatile and efficient cooking solutions.
Yes, both models are versatile and can replace multiple kitchen appliances such as a rice cooker, slow cooker, steamer, and pressure cooker. This versatility saves counter space and simplifies meal preparation.
Conclusion
When it comes to the Instant Pot Duo Plus versus the Pro, both models offer a range of features and benefits that can make cooking faster, easier, and more convenient. However, the right choice for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences.
At the end of the day, it really remains your choice on which Instant Pot model to purchase. Happy pressure cooking!
Max
"Which Model Wins? But which one truly excels in terms of ease of use and convenience?"
It would be good if you answered these questions!