For home cooks looking to streamline their kitchen without sacrificing functionality, the Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker is a solid choice. It combines multiple cooking methods—pressure cooking, slow cooking, steaming, sautéing, and even yogurt-making—into one appliance. While it’s not the most advanced model in Instant Pot’s lineup, its straightforward design, reliable performance, and reasonable price make it a practical addition to many kitchens.
Key Features
1. Seven Cooking Functions in One
The Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 replaces several appliances, functioning as a:
Pressure cooker (cuts cooking time significantly)
Slow cooker (for hands-off braising and stewing)
Rice cooker (with automatic adjustments for perfect rice)
Steamer (for vegetables, dumplings, and fish)
Sauté pan (for browning meats before pressure cooking)
Yogurt maker (ferments homemade yogurt easily)
Food warmer (keeps dishes at serving temperature)
This versatility means fewer gadgets cluttering your countertops while still providing flexibility in meal prep14.
2. Simple, Intuitive Controls
Unlike some more complex multi-cookers, the Duo 7-in-1 has a straightforward button-based interface. Each function (Soup, Meat/Stew, Rice, etc.) is clearly labeled, and adjustments for pressure level (High/Low) and time are easy to make. There’s also a Manual mode for custom cooking times, which experienced users may prefer39.
3. Safety Features
Safety is a major concern with pressure cookers, but the Duo 7-in-1 includes 10 safety mechanisms, such as:
Automatic pressure control (prevents over-pressurization)
Lid lock (prevents opening under pressure)
Overheat protection (shuts off if temperature gets too high)
Steam release handle (keeps hands away from hot steam)
These features make it much safer than traditional stovetop pressure cookers810.
4. Efficient and Energy-Saving
Because pressure cooking reduces cooking time by up to 70%, it also cuts energy use compared to conventional methods like slow cooking or oven roasting. The Instant Pot’s well-insulated design helps retain heat, further improving efficiency15.
Performance and Usability
Pressure Cooking: Fast and Consistent
The Duo 7-in-1 excels at pressure cooking, turning tough cuts of meat tender in under an hour. In testing, dishes like beef stew (35 minutes) and chicken soup (30 minutes) came out flavorful and well-cooked, with minimal supervision needed19.
Slow Cooking: Decent but Not Perfect
While it works as a slow cooker, some users find it less effective than dedicated models because the heating element is at the bottom rather than surrounding the pot. This can lead to uneven cooking if not stirred occasionally510.
Rice and Grains: Reliable Results
The Rice function adjusts automatically based on the amount of grains, producing fluffy white rice in about 16 minutes. For brown rice or multigrain blends, the Multigrain setting (40 minutes default) ensures thorough cooking without mushiness14.
Yogurt-Making: A Surprising Bonus
The Yogurt function is a standout, allowing you to pasteurize milk and ferment yogurt in the same pot. It’s a convenient way to make homemade yogurt without extra equipment18.
Drawbacks
1. No Air Frying or Baking
Unlike newer models (like the Duo Crisp), this version doesn’t include air frying or baking functions. If you want those features, you’ll need to upgrade23.
2. Learning Curve for Beginners
While the controls are straightforward, first-time pressure cooker users may need time to get comfortable with settings like natural vs. quick release and adjusting cooking times for different foods49.
3. Lid Design Could Be Better
The lid is heavy and lacks a built-in storage stand, making it awkward to place on the counter when open. Some users also note that the sealing ring absorbs odors from strongly flavored dishes14.
Who Should Buy This?
The Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 is best suited for:
Busy home cooks who want to save time on weeknight meals.
Small families (3-4 people)—the 6-quart size is ideal for most households.
Meal preppers who batch-cook soups, stews, and grains.
Yogurt makers who want an all-in-one solution.
It’s not the best choice if you:
Want air frying or baking (consider the Duo Crisp instead).
Need larger capacity (an 8-quart model would be better for big families).
Prefer touchscreen or app-controlled cooking (look at the Smart WiFi model).
Where to Buy
The Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 is widely available, but prices fluctuate. As of August 2025, you can find it at:
Amazon (SG) (check for current deals)
Costco (often has bundle deals with accessories)
Local appliance stores (for in-person purchase)
Final Verdict
The Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 is a reliable, versatile multi-cooker that delivers on its promises. While it lacks some of the bells and whistles of newer models, its simplicity, efficiency, and safety make it a great choice for anyone new to pressure cooking or looking for an all-in-one kitchen helper. If you don’t need air frying or smart features, this model remains a strong value in the crowded multi-cooker market.
Would we recommend it? Yes, especially for those who want a no-frills, dependable pressure cooker that can handle a variety of cooking tasks. Just be prepared for a slight learning curve and consider whether you might want additional functions like air frying before committing.
For those interested, you can check the latest price and availability here: Amazon SG - Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1.