Comparison: Best Rated Slow Cookers (Updated | Feb 3rd)
Let’s face it—nothing beats coming home to the aroma of a slow-cooked meal after a long day. But with so many slow cookers on the market, finding the right one can feel overwhelming. That’s why we’ve done the homework for you! In this comparison, we’ll break down the best-rated slow cookers, highlighting what makes each shine (and where they fall short). Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week, we’ll help you find your perfect kitchen companion. Let’s dive in!
Key Takeaways
- The top choice replaces 14 appliances, offering unmatched versatility.
- Consider capacity based on your household size for best results.
- Look for oven-safe features and easy cleanup for added convenience.
- Faster cooking times can save you significant meal prep effort.
Ninja MC1001 Foodi PossibleCooker PRO 8.5 Quart Multi-Cooker
Ultimate Multi-Cooker
- Replaces 14 appliances
- Cooks 30% faster
- Oven-safe up to 500°F
- BEST FOR CLASSIC MANUAL CHOICE: Crock-Pot 7 Quart Oval Manual Slow Cooker Read More ↓
- BEST FOR SECURE TRAVEL COOKING: Crock-Pot 6 Quart Cook & Carry Programmable Slow Cooker with Digital Timer Stainless Steel (CPSCVC60LL-S) pack of 1 Read More ↓
- BEST FOR VERSATILE MULTI-COOKER: Ninja® 12-in-1 PossibleCooker™ PLUS | 8.5-qt – Sous Vide & Proof Multi-Cooker | Slow Cooker Read More ↓
- BEST FOR HOLIDAY HOSTING ESSENTIAL: Crock-Pot Large 8-Quart Programmable Slow Cooker with Auto Warm Setting Black Stainless Steel Read More ↓
- BEST FOR EXTRA LARGE CAPACITY: Hamilton Beach Slow Cooker Read More ↓
- BEST FOR PRECISE MEAL TIMING: Crock-Pot 7-Quart Slow Cooker Read More ↓
- BEST FOR ULTIMATE MULTI-COOKER: Ninja MC1001 Foodi PossibleCooker PRO 8.5 Quart Multi-Cooker Read More ↓
- BEST FOR SIMPLE RELIABLE DESIGN: Crockpot SCV700-CH-BR Slow Cooker 7 quarts Charcoal Read More ↓
- BEST FOR FAMILY MEAL FRIENDLY: Hamilton Beach 6-Quart Slow Cooker with 3 Cooking Settings Read More ↓
- BEST FOR RETRO STYLE OPTION: Crockpot Manual 7-Quart Slow Cooker Turquoise Read More ↓
Product Comparison: Best Rated Slow Cookers
Crock-Pot 7 Quart Oval Manual Slow Cooker, Stainless Steel (SCV700-S-BR), Versatile Cookware for Large Families or Entertaining
The Crock-Pot 7 Quart Oval Manual Slow Cooker is a versatile and reliable addition to any kitchen. With its generous 7-quart capacity, it easily serves 9+ people or fits a 7-pound roast, perfect for family gatherings or meal prepping.
The manual controls offer high and low settings, plus a warm function to keep food ready to serve. Its removable stoneware insert is safe for the microwave and oven up to 400°F, making it incredibly versatile.
Cleanup is a breeze with dishwasher-safe parts. This classic slow cooker delivers consistent, delicious meals with minimal effort.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Large capacity
- Simple controls
- Easy to clean
- Oven-safe stoneware
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- No digital timer
- Bulky size
Crock-Pot 6 Quart Cook & Carry Programmable Slow Cooker with Digital Timer Stainless Steel (CPSCVC60LL-S) pack of 1
The Crock-Pot 6 Quart Cook & Carry Programmable Slow Cooker combines convenience with portability. Its digital timer allows precise cooking from 30 minutes to 20 hours, automatically shifting to warm when done.
The 6-quart capacity serves 7+ people, ideal for potlucks or family dinners. The locking lid with a rubber gasket ensures spill-free transport, making worry-free travel a reality.
The removable stoneware is safe for ovens up to 400°F and microwaves, adding to its versatility. Perfect for busy households, this slow cooker simplifies meal preparation and ensures delicious results every time.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Programmable timer
- Spill-proof lid
- Portable design
- Easy to clean
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Slightly smaller capacity
- Complex controls
Ninja® 12-in-1 PossibleCooker™ PLUS | 8.5-qt – Sous Vide & Proof Multi-Cooker | Slow Cooker, Dutch Oven & More | Glass Lid & Integrated Spoon | Nonstick | Oven Safe Pot to 500°F | Black | MC1010
The Ninja 12-in-1 PossibleCooker PLUS is a versatile kitchen powerhouse that replaces 12 different appliances, from a slow cooker to a Dutch oven. Its 8.5-quart capacity is perfect for large families or entertaining, easily serving up to 20 people.
The Triple Fusion Heat Technology ensures faster cooking by combining bottom, side, and steam heat. You can sear proteins and sauté vegetables directly in the pot, then finish dishes in the oven with its oven-safe pot up to 500°F.
This multi-cooker simplifies meal prep while delivering professional results.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Versatile 12-in-1 functionality
- Large 8.5-quart capacity
- Oven-safe up to 500°F
- Faster cooking with fusion heat
- Easy cleanup nonstick pot
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Bulky and heavy
- High price point
- Learning curve for settings
Crock-Pot Large 8-Quart Programmable Slow Cooker with Auto Warm Setting Black Stainless Steel
The Crock-Pot Large 8-Quart Programmable Slow Cooker is a reliable choice for feeding crowds, making it ideal for holiday dinners or gatherings. Its digital timer allows for up to 20 hours of cooking, while the auto warm setting keeps food at the perfect serving temperature until ready to eat.
The removable stoneware pot and lid are dishwasher-safe, ensuring easy cleanup. With a memory function that resets settings after a power outage, this slow cooker offers peace of mind and convenience for busy households.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Large 8-quart capacity
- Programmable digital timer
- Auto warm feature
- Dishwasher-safe parts
- Power outage memory function
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- No searing capability
- Basic features only
Hamilton Beach Slow Cooker, Extra Large 10 Quart, Stay or Go Portable With Lid Lock, Dishwasher Safe Crock, Black (33195)
The Hamilton Beach Extra Large 10 Quart Slow Cooker is perfect for big gatherings, cooking enough for 12+ people. It fits a 10 lb.
turkey or 12 lb. roast effortlessly.
The lid clips tightly to handles, reducing spills during transport, making it ideal for potlucks. Simple controls let you cook flavorful meals with minimal effort—just turn the dial.
Three heat settings (Low, High, Warm) ensure perfect results. Full-grip handles make it easy to carry.
This slow cooker combines convenience, capacity, and portability, making it a must-have for family dinners or parties.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Huge 10-quart capacity
- Secure lid locking system
- Simple dial controls
- Easy to transport
- Fits large roasts
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Bulky to store
- Heavy when full
Crock-Pot 7-Quart Slow Cooker, Portable Programmable with Timer, Locking Lid, Stainless Steel; an Essential Kitchen Appliance, Perfect for Families and Gatherings
The Crock-Pot 7-Quart Slow Cooker offers personalized cooking with MyTime technology, adjusting cycles so meals are ready when you want. Its leak-proof locking lid ensures spill-free travel, perfect for potlucks.
The 7-quart capacity serves 7+ people, ideal for families. Auto-adjustment cooking prevents overcooking while preserving flavor.
The intuitive flat digital screen lets you schedule meal times or manually control settings. This slow cooker combines modern technology with reliability, making home cooking effortless.
Whether for daily meals or gatherings, it delivers consistent, delicious results with minimal supervision.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Programmable MyTime feature
- Secure locking lid
- Large 7-quart capacity
- Digital control screen
- Auto-adjustment cooking cycle
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Limited color options
- Larger footprint
Ninja MC1001 Foodi PossibleCooker PRO 8.5 Quart Multi-Cooker, with 8-in-1 Slow Cooker, Dutch Oven, Steamer, Glass Lid Integrated Spoon, Nonstick, Oven Safe Pot to 500°F, Sea Salt Gray
The Ninja MC1001 Foodi PossibleCooker PRO is a versatile 8.5-quart multi-cooker that replaces up to 14 cooking tools. With its triple fusion heat technology, it combines bottom, side, and steam heat to cook up to 30% faster than conventional ovens.
You can sear proteins and sauté vegetables directly in the pot, eliminating the need for stovetop transfer. The oven-safe pot up to 500°F allows for crispy finishes.
Perfect for entertaining, it serves up to 20 people with dishes like chili or pulled pork. Its durable nonstick build ensures easy cleaning, making it a kitchen essential for busy families.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Replaces 14 appliances
- Cooks 30% faster
- Oven-safe up to 500°F
- Large 8.5-quart capacity
- Easy to clean
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Bulky design
- Higher price point
Crockpot SCV700-CH-BR Slow Cooker 7 quarts Charcoal
The Crockpot SCV700-CH-BR is a reliable 7-quart manual slow cooker designed for effortless one-pot meals. It serves 8+ people or fits a 6-lb.
roast, making it ideal for family dinners or gatherings. Choose high heat for quick meals or low heat for all-day cooking while you’re at work.
The warm setting keeps food at the perfect serving temperature until ready. Its dishwasher-safe lid and removable stoneware ensure easy cleanup.
Simple, durable, and affordable, this slow cooker is a must-have for anyone who loves convenient, home-cooked meals without the hassle of multiple pots and pans.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Spacious 7-quart capacity
- Simple manual controls
- Dishwasher-safe parts
- Affordable price
- Keeps food warm
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- No programmable timer
- Basic design
Hamilton Beach 6-Quart Slow Cooker with 3 Cooking Settings, Dishwasher-Safe Stoneware Crock & Glass Lid, Silver (33665G)
The Hamilton Beach 6-Quart Slow Cooker is a kitchen essential for busy families and entertaining guests. Its spacious stoneware crock holds up to 7+ people, perfect for a whole chicken or roast.
With three heat settings—Low, High, and Keep Warm—you can effortlessly create flavorful meals. The full-grip handles make it easy to carry to the table or gatherings.
Cleanup is a breeze as both the crock and glass lid are dishwasher safe. Simple, reliable, and versatile, this slow cooker is designed to save you time while delivering delicious, home-cooked meals with minimal effort.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Large 6-quart capacity
- Easy to carry handles
- Dishwasher-safe parts
- Simple heat settings
- Fits large meals
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Basic no-frills design
- Bulky for storage
Crockpot Manual 7-Quart Slow Cooker Turquoise
The Crockpot Manual 7-Quart Slow Cooker in vibrant turquoise combines style and functionality. Its generous 7-quart capacity serves 8+ people, making it ideal for large families or gatherings.
Choose between High, Low, or Keep Warm settings to cook meals to perfection, whether you’re home or at work. The one-pot cooking reduces cleanup, and the removable stoneware and lid are dishwasher safe for added convenience.
With its classic manual controls and ample space, this slow cooker is perfect for hearty soups, stews, and roasts, delivering consistent results every time.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Spacious 7-quart capacity
- Attractive turquoise color
- Simple manual controls
- Dishwasher-safe components
- Great for large groups
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- No digital timer
- Heavier to move
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.com at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Buying Guide
FAQs
What should I look for when choosing a slow cooker?
Consider the size, features, and ease of cleaning. A larger capacity is ideal for families, while smaller models work well for individuals or couples.
How do different slow cookers compare in terms of performance?
High-rated models often have even heat distribution and consistent temperature control. Cheaper models may have hot spots or slower cooking times.
What features are most important in a slow cooker?
Programmable settings, a delay timer, and a keep-warm function are highly desirable. Removable, dishwasher-safe inserts make cleanup easier.
Are expensive slow cookers worth the extra cost?
Premium models often offer advanced features like smart connectivity and better build quality. However, budget options can still perform well for basic slow cooking needs.
How do I decide between a manual and programmable slow cooker?
Manual models are simple and affordable, great for straightforward recipes. Programmable ones offer flexibility for busy schedules with preset cooking times.
What materials are best for slow cooker inserts?
Ceramic inserts are common and retain heat well, while stainless steel is durable and lightweight. Non-stick coatings simplify cleaning but may wear over time.
How do slow cookers compare to other cooking appliances like pressure cookers?
Slow cookers are ideal for long, low-heat cooking, while pressure cookers speed up the process. Pressure cookers can also perform more functions like sautéing and steaming.
What are the pros and cons of small vs. large slow cookers?
Small slow cookers are compact and energy-efficient but may not suit big meals. Large models handle batch cooking but take up more storage space.
How can I get the best value when buying a slow cooker?
Look for models with essential features and positive reviews to ensure quality. Mid-range options often offer the best balance of performance and price.
What safety features should I consider in a slow cooker?
Cool-touch handles and a secure lid are important for safe handling. Some models also have auto-shutoff features to prevent overcooking.