If you cook for 1‑2 people, a 3‑quart model like the Instant Pot Duo Mini is sufficient for side dishes and small meals. For families of 4‑6, a 6‑quart cooker such as the DUMOS 12‑in‑1 or COSORI offers enough room for stews, roasts, and larger batches of rice. Larger gatherings may benefit from an 8‑quart unit like the DUMOS 16‑in‑1, which can handle up to 20 cups of cooked rice.

Both brands provide core functions—pressure cook, slow cook, steam, sauté, and rice—but DUMOS models add extra presets such as sterilize, sous‑vide, and ferment, giving more specialized options. Instant Pot focuses on a streamlined set of 7‑9 functions with intuitive one‑touch programs, while DUMOS emphasizes a broader 12‑16‑preset menu for advanced users.

Stainless steel pots, found in most Instant Pot and DUMOS models, deliver even heat distribution and durability, which helps prevent scorching of rice. Non‑stick interiors, like those in the DUMOS 12‑in‑1, make cleanup easier but can wear over time; they also may not sear as well as stainless steel. Choose stainless steel if you value long‑term performance and occasional browning, or non‑stick for quick clean‑up.

All listed units include basic safety mechanisms such as lid‑lock, over‑heat protection, and automatic pressure release. The COMFEE’ 16‑in‑1 and COSORI models stand out with multiple vent designs, double‑layer anti‑scald lids, and 10‑12 safety sensors, providing extra peace of mind for beginners. If you prioritize safety above all, look for models that list a higher count of independent safety features.

Smart connectivity, like the Chef iQ’s Wi‑Fi and built‑in scale, offers guided cooking, recipe updates, and remote monitoring, which can simplify complex dishes. However, basic models without connectivity still deliver reliable pressure cooking and rice functions at a lower price. If you enjoy experimenting with new recipes and want hands‑free monitoring, a smart model adds value; otherwise, a standard unit works perfectly well.

Preset programs automate time, pressure, and temperature settings, reducing guesswork and ensuring consistent results, especially for rice and beans. They also help achieve the advertised 70% faster cooking compared to traditional stovetop methods because the cooker optimizes pressure cycles automatically. While they don’t magically speed up physics, they make the process more efficient and user‑friendly.

For most households, the Instant Pot Duo 7‑in‑1 (6‑quart) balances price, versatility, and reliability, offering enough functions for daily meals without excess complexity. If you need a larger capacity and extra presets, the DUMOS 16‑in‑1 provides more features at a comparable price point, but its larger size may be unnecessary for smaller kitchens. Consider how often you’ll use the specialty functions when assessing value.

Models with dishwasher‑safe lids and inner pots, such as the Instant Pot Duo Mini and COSORI, simplify cleanup to a single cycle. DUMOS units feature non‑stick interiors and removable accessories that can be rinsed quickly, while the Chef iQ’s built‑in scale requires occasional wiping of the sensor area. In general, stainless steel pots need a bit more hand‑washing to avoid food residue, but all models are designed for easy maintenance.