Best Pressure Cookers of 2025

Rebecca Cantu Avatar
Rebecca Cantu
Last Updated: Jan 13, 2025

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Pressure cookers are versatile kitchen appliances that can help cooks save time and energy while preparing delicious meals. These appliances use steam pressure to cook food quickly and evenly, making them perfect for busy individuals who want to prepare healthy meals without spending hours in the kitchen. Pressure cookers are available in various sizes and designs, and they can be used to cook a wide range of dishes, from soups and stews to rice and vegetables. With their fast cooking times and energy-efficient design, pressure cookers are a must-have for any home cook looking to streamline their cooking process.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Presto 6-Quart Stainless Steel Pressure Cooker Cover #TOP 1
Presto 6-Quart Stainless Steel Pressure Cooker
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Presto 23-Qt Pressure Canner and Cooker Cover #TOP 2
Presto 23-Qt Pressure Canner and Cooker
ftb score rating icon 9.8
T-fal Clipso Aluminum Pressure Cooker 22 Quart Cover #TOP 3
T-fal Clipso Aluminum Pressure Cooker 22 Quart
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Pressure Cookers

Presto 6-Quart Stainless Steel Pressure Cooker

01362
silver
6 Quarts
Presto 6-Quart Stainless Steel Pressure Cooker Cover
Presto 01362 6-Quart Stainless Steel Pressure Cooker

The Presto 6-Quart Stainless Steel Pressure Cooker is perfect for cooking chicken, fish, meat, and vegetables quickly and helps to tenderize economical cuts of meat. It has a pressure regulator that maintains the proper cooking pressure automatically and comes with a 64-page instruction/recipe book. The cooker is ideal for use on regular, smooth-top, and induction ranges and can be washed in an automatic dishwasher. The cover lock indicator ensures safety by showing when there is pressure inside the cooker and preventing the cover from being opened until pressure is safely reduced. The helper handle makes it easy to handle the cooker.

What We Like
Good cooking results
Easy to use
Fast cooking time
Retains nutrients
Reliable brand
What We Don't Like
Requires careful heat adjustment
Assembly needed
#TOP 2

Presto 23-Qt Pressure Canner and Cooker

01781
Silver
23 Quarts
Presto 23-Qt Pressure Canner and Cooker Cover
Presto 01781 Pressure Canner and Cooker, 23 qt, Silver

The Presto 23-Quart Pressure Canner and Cooker is the only method recommended safe by the US Department of Agriculture for canning vegetables, meats, poultry, and seafood. It can also be used as a large capacity pressure cooker and boiling-water canner for preserving fruits, jams, jellies, pickles, and salsa. The heavy-gauge aluminum construction ensures fast, even heating, and it works on regular and smooth-top ranges. The deluxe pressure dial gauge registers the complete range of processing pressures, making precise measurement especially important at higher altitudes. The canner and cooker comes with a canning/cooking rack and a 76-page instruction and recipe book, making big canning jobs easier to tackle.

What We Like
Large capacity for big batches
Safe for low-acid foods
Easy to use and operate
Durable and sturdy construction
Comprehensive instruction manual included
What We Don't Like
Minor design flaw with handles
Discoloration occurs inside pot

T-fal Clipso Aluminum Pressure Cooker 22 Quart

32406059009
Silver
22 Quarts
T-fal Clipso Aluminum Pressure Cooker 22 Quart Cover
T-fal Pressure Cooker Aluminum Pressure Canner, 22 Quart, 3 PSI Settings, Cookware, Pots and Pans, Large Capacity, Cooling Racks, Recipe Booket, Canning Vegetables, Meats, Poultry, Seafood, Silver

The T-fal Clipso Aluminum Pressure Cooker reduces cooking times by up to 70% compared to conventional cooking, making it a fast and efficient kitchen tool. Its durable aluminum construction ensures even heating and long-lasting performance. The cooker features a secure locking mechanism, a steam release valve, and a gauge to monitor pressure for added safety. It also has sturdy handles for a comfortable and secure grip. Compatible with all cooktops, including induction.

What We Like
Safe and easy to use
High-quality construction
Clear instruction booklet
Multiple PSI settings
Fast cooking times
What We Don't Like
Some instructions unclear
Handle alignment issues
#TOP 4

Barton 8Qt Pressure Canner

99901
Silver
8 QT
Barton 8Qt Pressure Canner Cover
Barton 8Qt Pressure Canner Release Valve Aluminum Canning Pot Cooker Pot Stove Top Instant Fast Cooking Pot

Barton 8Qt Pressure Canner is a fast and convenient cooking option that preserves flavors and nutrients. The cooker is made of polished aluminum material and comes with customized silicone seals for safety protection and durability. It has an 8-Quart capacity that is perfect for daily family use. The pressure cooker traps steam inside to create hotter temperatures, and its tight seal locks in heat, moisture, and flavor.

What We Like
Fast cooking time
Sturdy construction
Great for tenderizing meat
Good size for small families
What We Don't Like
Burning plastic smell occasionally
Stains on the inside
#TOP 5

Presto Aluminum Pressure Canner and Cooker

01755
Silver
16 Quarts
Presto Aluminum Pressure Canner and Cooker Cover
Presto 01755 16-Quart Aluminum canner Pressure Cooker, One Size, Silver

The Presto 01755 16-Quart Aluminum canner Pressure Cooker is designed for easy and confident home pressure canning. It is the only safe method recommended by the USDA for canning vegetables, meats, poultry, and seafood. This device doubles as a boiling water canner for fruits, jams, jellies, pickles, and salsa in half-pint and pint jars. It is compatible with gas, electric, and Smooth-top ranges. It has a deluxe pressure dial gauge, air vent/cover lock, and durable heavy-gauge aluminum for long life and fast, even heating, making it a handy large capacity pressure cooker for meats, poultry, soups, and desserts. It comes with an easy-to-follow 80-page instruction/recipe book for canning and pressure cooking.

What We Like
Sturdy and high quality
Easy to use for beginners
Compact and portable design
Includes detailed instructions
Good safety features
What We Don't Like
Lid can be difficult to open
Only one pressure setting
#TOP 6

Hawkins CB30 Pressure Cooker, 3-Liter, Contura Black

CB30
Contura Black
3.2 Quarts
Hawkins CB30 Pressure Cooker, 3-Liter, Contura Black Cover
Hawkins CB30 Hard Anodised Pressure Cooker, 3-Liter, Contura Black

The Hawkins CB30 Pressure Cooker is perfect for busy individuals who want to enjoy healthy, homemade meals quickly and easily. Its improved pressure regulator ensures that the pressure level inside the cooker is controlled and regulated, while the curved body allows for easy stirring of food. Made from high-quality aluminum material, this pressure cooker is resistant to corrosion and its hard anodized body absorbs heat at a faster rate, making it more energy efficient.

What We Like
Durable and efficient design
Compact size for individuals
Easy to use and clean
Quick cooking time
Versatile for multiple uses
What We Don't Like
Customer service challenges
Minor quality control issues
#TOP 7

Megachef Digital Pressure Cooker: Effortless Meal Preparation

Electric Digital
Silver and Black
6 Quarts
Megachef Digital Pressure Cooker: Effortless Meal Preparation Cover
Megachef Digital Pressure Cooker, Silver, 6 quart

The Megachef Digital Pressure Cooker is a versatile kitchen appliance that offers high and low pressure cooking options, as well as 14 pre-set options for effortless meal preparation. Its high grade stainless steel cooking pot ensures healthier food preparation, while the pressure limiting valve stabilizes the pressure inside the cooker and allows for steam to escape during cooking. The cooker also includes a condensation cup, plastic spoon, measuring cup, and has a keep warm option with automatic shutoff. With the ability to do fast pressure cooking or slow cooking up to 9.5 hours, the Megachef Digital Pressure Cooker is a great addition to any kitchen.

What We Like
Affordable option
Easy to use
Effective cooking performance
Reliable compared to other brands
What We Don't Like
Quality control issues
Possible minor defects upon arrival
#TOP 8

Presto 8-Quart Stainless Steel Pressure Cooker

01370
Silver
8 Quarts
Presto 8-Quart Stainless Steel Pressure Cooker Cover
Presto 01370 8-Quart Stainless Steel Pressure Cooker

The Presto 8-Quart Stainless Steel Pressure Cooker offers fast and uniform heating with its tri-clad base, cooking chicken, fish, meat, and vegetables to perfection in minutes. Its pressure regulator maintains proper cooking pressure automatically, and the pressure regulator/steam release valve offers an effortless "quick cool" option. The cover lock indicator shows when pressure is inside the cooker and prevents the cover from being opened until pressure is safely reduced. The cooker also includes a stainless steel steaming basket for cooking multiple foods at once with no flavor intermingling.

What We Like
Excellent energy efficiency
Large 8-quart capacity
Fast cooking times
Dishwasher safe
Good for canning
What We Don't Like
Simple recipe book
Requires attention during cooking
#TOP 9

WantJoin 10Qt Aluminum Pressure Cooker

Aluminum Pressure Cooker
Siver
10 Quarts
WantJoin 10Qt Aluminum Pressure Cooker Cover
WantJoin 10Qt Aluminum Pressure Cooker w/Release Valve & Multiple Protective Devices,Pressure Canner Compatible with Gas & Induction Cooker,Canner Rack Included

The WantJoin Pressure Cooker is designed with your safety in mind, featuring eight essential safety mechanisms. These include a self-locking valve and a pressure release window, ensuring you can cook without worry. The sturdy aluminum construction provides durability and even heat distribution, making it perfect for various cooking methods like steaming and braising. Plus, the burn-free handle allows for easy opening and closing, preventing gas leaks and enhancing convenience in the kitchen. With this pressure cooker, you can enjoy quick, nutritious meals with peace of mind.

What We Like
Easy to use
Large volume
Quick cooking times
Great value for price
What We Don't Like
Hard to get lid on
Pressure lid closure issues
#TOP 10

Presto 01241 Pressure Cooker

01241
Silver
4 Quarts
Presto 01241 Pressure Cooker Cover
Presto 01241 4-Quart Aluminum Pressure Cooker

The Presto 4-Quart Cooker is a versatile kitchen tool designed to make cooking faster and more efficient. This aluminum pressure cooker heats up quickly, which helps you save time in the kitchen. Its spacious 4-quart capacity allows you to prepare meals for the whole family in one go. The durable construction ensures that it can withstand regular use, providing you with a reliable cooking option. With its easy-to-use design, you can enjoy the benefits of pressure cooking without the hassle, making your meal preparation simpler and more enjoyable.

What We Like
Fast cooking times
Versatile for various dishes
Durable build quality
Great for meal prep
Flavorful results
What We Don't Like
Learning curve for beginners
Can be a bit loud
Buying Guide Image

Finding the Best Pressure Cookers for Your Home

Understanding Pressure Cookers

A pressure cooker is a kitchen appliance that is used to cook food quickly by using steam pressure. The high pressure that is created inside the cooker allows the food to cook at a higher temperature, which reduces the cooking time significantly. This makes pressure cookers an excellent choice for busy individuals who want to prepare healthy and delicious meals quickly.

Deciding on the Right Size

One of the first things to consider when choosing a pressure cooker is the size. Pressure cookers come in a range of sizes, from small ones that can hold just a few cups of food to large ones that can cook a whole chicken or turkey.

If you live alone or with just one other person, a small pressure cooker will likely be sufficient for your needs. On the other hand, if you have a large family or like to entertain guests, a larger pressure cooker will be a better choice.

Choosing the Right Material

Pressure cookers are made from a range of materials, including stainless steel, aluminum, and ceramic. Each type of material has its own benefits and drawbacks, so it's important to consider which one will be the best fit for your needs.

Stainless steel pressure cookers are durable and easy to clean, but they can be heavy and expensive. Aluminum pressure cookers are lightweight and inexpensive, but they are not as durable as stainless steel and can react with acidic foods, which can affect the flavor of the food. Ceramic pressure cookers are non-reactive and easy to clean, but they are also heavy and expensive.

Features to Look For

In addition to the size and material of the pressure cooker, there are a few other features that you should consider when choosing one.

First, consider the type of pressure cooker. Most pressure cookers are either stovetop or electric. Stovetop pressure cookers are typically less expensive and easier to use, but they require more manual effort to use. Electric pressure cookers, on the other hand, are more convenient and often come with additional features, such as the ability to delay cooking or to keep food warm after it is done cooking.

Another feature to look for is the safety features of the pressure cooker. Pressure cookers can be dangerous if they are not used properly, so it's important to choose one that has multiple safety features to prevent accidents. Some common safety features to look for include a pressure release valve, a locking lid, and an automatic shut-off function.

Conclusion

Choosing the right pressure cooker can be a daunting task, but by considering the size, material, and features of the cooker, you can find one that will suit your needs and help you to prepare healthy and delicious meals quickly and easily.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Why would you buy a pressure cooker?

There are several reasons to buy a pressure cooker. Firstly, it saves time, energy, and money as food cooks 3 to 10 times faster than ordinary cooking methods. Additionally, pressure cooking preserves flavors and nutrients while tenderizing lean cuts of meat. Overall, a pressure cooker is a convenient and efficient kitchen appliance.

2. What are the two types of pressure cooker?

There are two types of pressure cookers: stovetop and electric. Stovetop pressure cookers cook food faster and are more sturdy, but they require more attention as the heat needs to be adjusted throughout cooking. Electric pressure cookers are more user-friendly but may take longer to cook.

3. What is better stainless steel or aluminum pressure cooker?

Stainless steel pressure cookers are generally considered a better choice than aluminum ones. Aluminum pressure cookers can react with acidic foods, potentially causing health issues. Stainless steel is non-reactive to acidic and salty foods, making it a healthier option.

4. Which is better inner lid or outer lid pressure cooker?

Inner lid pressure cookers are generally considered safer than outer lid pressure cookers. Inner lid pressure cookers have the lid locked from the inside, providing an added level of safety. Outer lid pressure cookers may have a gas release system (GRS) for safety purposes.

5. What are the disadvantages of a pressure cooker?

There are a few disadvantages to using a pressure cooker. Firstly, all ingredients need to be cooked for the same amount of time, which can be limiting. Additionally, you can't open the cooker to check for readiness or seasoning during the cooking process. It may take some time to learn how to use a pressure cooker effectively, and it may not be suitable for all types of meals. Overcooking can also be a potential issue.

6. What's the difference between an Instapot and a pressure cooker?

The main differences between a traditional pressure cooker and an Instant Pot (Instapot) are usability, technology, and safety. Instant Pots have advanced safety features that make them safer to use. They also offer more user-friendly features compared to traditional pressure cookers. However, traditional pressure cookers may have a sturdier build and cook food faster.

Editor's Notes

During our pressure cooker research, we found 24 pressure cooker products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 435,217 customer reviews through our big data system to write the pressure cookers list. We found that most customers choose pressure cookers with an average price of $81.61.

The pressure cookers are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of pressure cookers, including Presto, T-Fal, Barton, HAWKINS, Megachef. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Rebecca Cantu Avatar

Rebecca Cantu grew up in a family-owned retail store for home and kitchen products. She worked online and gave assistance to people to buy ideal products for their sweet home after graduating from Northwestern University with a marketing degree. She has been writing content for online shopping guides since 2011 with her professional knowledge and natural sensitivity of appliances.

Pressure Cookers Comparison Table

#TOP1
#TOP2
#TOP3
#TOP4
#TOP5
#TOP6
#TOP7
#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand Presto Presto T-Fal Barton Presto HAWKINS Megachef Presto WantJoin Presto
Capacity 6 Quarts 21.8 Liters 22 Quarts 8 Quarts 16 Quarts 3 Liters 6 Quarts 8 Quarts 10 Quarts 4 Quarts
Material Stainless Steel, stainless-steel Aluminum Aluminum Aluminum Aluminum Hard-Anodized Aluminum Stainless steel Stainless steel Aluminum Aluminum
Color silver Silver Silver Silver Silver Contura Black Silver and Black Silver Siver Silver
Finish Type Silver Stainless Steel Polished Silver Stainless Steel Brushed Chrome Stainless Steel Aluminum Aluminum
Special Feature Gas Stovetop Compatible, Electric Stovetop Compatible, Dishwasher Safe, Locking Lid, Induction Compatible Base Manual Gas Stovetop Compatible, Electric Stovetop Compatible Gas Stovetop Compatible Manual Gas Stovetop Compatible, Electric Stovetop Compatible Can do fast pressure cooking, or Slow Cooking up to 9.5 hours Locking Lid Gas Stovetop Compatible, Electric Stovetop Compatible, Induction Stovetop Compatible Manual
Item Weight 6.6 Pounds 12 Pounds 14.8 Pounds 5.5 Pounds 10.5 Pounds 4.2 Pounds 10.8 Pounds 8.85 Pounds 7.48 pounds 3.5 Pounds
Control Method Touch Touch Touch Touch Touch Touch Touch Touch Touch Touch
Wattage 1000 watts 1000 watts 1000 watts - 1000 watts 1000 watts 1000 watts 1000 watts 1 watts 1000 watts
Controller Type Hand Control Hand Control Hand Control Hand Control Hand Control Hand Control Hand Control - Hand Control Hand Control
Operation Mode Automatic Manual Manual Automatic Manual Manual Automatic - Manual Manual
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.9
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 8.9
Where to Buy