Instant Pot Duo Plus Review (2026)
8.9 / 10
The Instant Pot Duo Plus is the best value Instant Pot for most people. It improves on the classic Duo with a better display, more programs, and solid everyday performance while remaining more affordable than the Pro series.
Key Specs
- Type 9-in-1 Multicooker / Pressure Cooker
- Capacity 6 or 8 quart
- Key Functions Pressure Cook, Slow Cook, Sauté, Steam, Rice, Yogurt, Sterilize, Sous Vide, Keep Warm
- Standout Features Progress bar display, extra programs vs classic Duo
- Best for Best overall value Instant Pot
What We Like & What Could Be Better
✓ Pros
- Excellent everyday pressure cooking performance
- Clear progress-bar display
- More programs than the basic Duo
- Strong value for the price
- Huge recipe ecosystem and community support
- Reliable and easy to use
– Cons
- No air-frying capability
- Not as refined as the Instant Pot Pro
- Slow-cook performance is average
- Plastic lid handle feels less premium
Who It’s For
The Instant Pot Duo Plus is ideal if you:
- Want the best balance of features and price
- Primarily need reliable pressure cooking
- Prefer the Instant Pot ecosystem and recipes
- Don’t need air frying built in
It’s less ideal if you want the most premium Instant Pot experience (go for the Pro) or built-in air frying.
Verdict
8.9 / 10
The Instant Pot Duo Plus remains one of the smartest buys in the multicooker category in 2026. It delivers everything most people actually need from an Instant Pot at a very reasonable price.
Buy if: You want the best value Instant Pot with solid everyday performance.
Skip if: You want air frying or the most premium Instant Pot features.