Hamilton Beach Stay-or-Go 33162

When it comes to budget slow cookers, the 6-quart Hamilton Beach Stay-or-Go 33162 gets the best reviews in its price range. Experts love the wraparound heating element, a feature more often found in pricier models, resulting in more even cooking. The three temperature settings, including a warming mode, also get high marks, as does the locking lid with a sturdy gasket. Although this slow cooker lacks a timer, making it less suitable for working families, it compensates with other features, such as a dishwasher-safe stoneware insert and the best durability ratings we found among budget slow cookers. If you want a programmable slow cooker, reviewers recommend the All-Clad 99009 (*Est. $200).

The Hamilton Beach Stay-or-Go is well reviewed by several experts, including those at ConsumerReports.org, Cook's Illustrated magazine and ConsumerGuide.com. Because testing methods are clearly explained, the reviews at ConsumerReports.org and Cook's Illustrated have a high level of reliability. This model gets its highest marks from consumers, who give it near-perfect scores at Amazon.com and Cooking.com.