Are you confused about countertop slow cookers? Overall, there are three different types of slow cookers to choose from: ceramic, searing, and multicookers. Deciding which style best meets your needs is the first step in buying a slow cooker.
We prefer a slow cooker with a sauté function, but you’ll want to consider the pros and cons of each type to choose the “best” option for your kitchen. Below we list our top pick within each category and you can also learn more in our slow cooker recommendations article.
3 Types of Slow Cookers
1. “Traditional” slow cookers with ceramic inserts
These stoneware crock pot models are the least expensive type. Large models are oblong in shape, while small slow cookers are round.
Within this category, you’ll find manual slow cookers and programmable slow cookers. Manual slow cookers are fine for warming sauces or dips, but they require extra monitoring so we don’t recommend them for unattended cooking (learn why a “slow cooker timer” is not the solution). Programmable slow cookers allow you to cook for a set time and usually offer a Keep Warm function—this is what you need to cook dinner.
Best for: If you are looking for a budget slow cooker or want to avoid coated nonstick cooking surfaces, this category provides the best value.
Consider: Ceramic pots can break, so make sure whatever brand you choose offers replacement parts.
Our Favorite: KitchenAid Slow Cooker, see more options.
2. Slow cookers with sear/sauté function and metal inserts
These devices are often called multi-cookers. These programmable cookers have larger, oblong-shaped metal pots. In general, searing pots tend to cook slightly faster than the ceramic pots discussed above.
Best for: If you want one-pot convenience, this category is the winner.
We like this style because these large slow cookers can brown meat and sauté vegetables all in the same pot. One less pan to clean is very helpful on busy days (i.e. the days we tend to use a slow cooker).
Consider: The drawback here is that most models in this category have nonstick pots—which many people like to avoid due to issues with chipping, peeling, and bubbling.
Best: Wolf Gourmet Multi Cooker (stainless steel cooking pot), see more options.
Note: There are also round enameled cast iron electric dutch ovens on the market that fit this same “searing” category, but none are our top pick.
3. Electric pressure cookers offering a slow cook mode
Also called multi-cookers. These programmable devices are usually round and deep. Pressure cooking is their primary role, with slow cooking offered as a secondary function. But these pots also allow for searing and sautéing.
Before buying a pressure cooker, learn more about slow cookers versus pressure cookers—you might decide a pressure cooker is overly-complicated for your needs.
Best for: If you don’t plan to slow cook often, these appliances offer more versatility with multiple cooking functions.
Consider: The taller, round shape of these pots can make it difficult to sear large roasts. And the “Slow Cook” setting on many instant pot style cookers often doesn’t work as well as a dedicated slow cooker.
Highly-rated for Slow Cooking: Zavor LUX and Breville Fast Slow Pro, see more options.
