Instant Pot IP-LUX60

Bottom Line

Reviewers agree: Electric pressure cookers are not as powerful as stovetop pressure cookers. It takes electric models longer to reach pressure and longer to cook foods. However, they are safer to leave unattended. For owners who prefer the convenience of an electric pressure cooker, the Instant Pot IP-LUX60 is a good option. It functions as a steamer, rice cooker and slow cooker, and boasts enough safety features that even a worrywart would feel confident using it.

Performance

Slow for a pressure cooker. For an electric pressure cooker, the Instant Pot performs exceptionally well according to Amazon.com reviewers. Some owners say it's even replaced their stovetop cookers. However, several owners and one professional reviewer say this pot is more like a slow cooker than a stovetop cooker. Moreover, owners say foods don't cook as quickly with this unit.

Ease of Use

Overly complicated operation. In her review for HipPressureCooking.com, Laura Pazzaglia explains that the unit has easy-to-use features, but isn't so easy to use in reality. The lid can be difficult to put on and secure, she says, and if not properly secured, the cooker won't reach pressure. As a safety feature, if the cooker doesn't reach pressure within a certain amount of time, it will turn itself off and switch to "keep warm" mode. Pazzaglia says this requires babysitting the pot to ensure it's still at pressure.

Appearance

On-par with other models. With its stainless-steel exterior, the Instant Pot IP-LUX60 is styled like many other sleek, modern countertop appliances. Like other electric pressure cookers, the unit has a large capacity but is similar in size to a slow cooker. While the insert is dishwasher-safe and the outside can be wiped clean with a cloth, the lid must be disassembled and hand-washed, which Pazzaglia says is a challenge.

Safety

Excessive precautions. The Instant Pot IP-LUX60 has numerous safety features, including a safety lid lock, excess pressure sensors and vents, high temperature monitoring and electricity shut-off if internal or external temperatures get too high. However, it seems these precautions may be excessive, as they sometimes prevent the pot from cooking food as expected under normal conditions.