In today’s fast-paced world, we’re all looking for kitchen appliances that can do more with less fuss. Enter the magical world of the Instant Pot! For years, it’s been a game-changer for pressure cooking, slow cooking, and so much more. But what if you could add crispy, golden air-fried goodness to that list, all from one trusted brand? That’s where the Instant Pot plus air fryer combination comes into play, offering incredible versatility.
Whether you’re after a true multi-cooker that pressure cooks and air fries, or a dedicated air fryer from the Instant Pot family, you’re in for a treat. These innovative gadgets are designed to simplify meal prep, reduce cooking time, and help you whip up healthier versions of your favorite dishes. No more juggling multiple appliances or worrying about excessive oil!
We’ve scoured the best options from Instant Pot to bring you five fantastic choices, from ultimate multi-taskers to focused air-frying powerhouses. Let’s dive into what makes each of these countertop champions a must-have!
1. Instant Pot Duo Crisp 11-in-1 Air Fryer and Electric Pressure Cooker (6-Quart)
This 6-quart Instant Pot Duo Crisp truly lives up to its name, offering the best of both worlds: a top-notch pressure cooker and a fantastic air fryer, all in one space-saving appliance. It’s perfect for folks who love whipping up speedy, hearty meals and then finishing them off with a satisfying crunch. Imagine making tender pulled pork in minutes, then air frying it to get those crispy edges, all with one device! This model is a versatile appliance that makes healthy cooking a breeze, helping you achieve delicious results with minimal effort.
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Key Features:
- 11 Cooking Functions: Air fry, roast, bake, dehydrate, pressure cook, slow cook, sauté, steam, sterilize, warm, or cook rice.
- Customizable Smart Programs: 15 one-touch options for various recipes.
- Good Food Done Faster: Cooks up to 70% faster than traditional methods.
- EvenCrisp Technology: Achieves perfect crunch with 95% less oil.
- Family-Sized Capacity: 6-quart capacity, perfect for up to 6 servings.
- Quick Cleanup: Dishwasher-safe pressure cooking lid and inner pot.
- Power-Packed Performance: 1500 watts, UL & ULC Listed.
- Proven Peace of Mind: Over 10 safety mechanisms, including overheat protection.
- A Little Extra: Includes broil/dehydrator tray, air fryer basket, steam rack, and both lids.
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Pros:
- Incredibly versatile with 11 functions, truly a multi-cooker.
- Saves significant kitchen counter space by combining two essential appliances.
- EvenCrisp technology delivers excellent air frying results.
- Faster cooking for busy weeknights.
- Easy to clean with dishwasher-safe components.
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Cons:
- Can be bulky to store with two separate lids.
- Might have a learning curve for new users navigating all functions.
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User Impressions: Customers rave about its ability to replace several kitchen gadgets. They particularly love the crispy results from the air fryer function and the speed of pressure cooking. Many highlight its ease of use once you get the hang of it, calling it a true kitchen workhorse for healthy meal prep.
2. Instant Pot Duo Crisp 11-in-1 Air Fryer and Electric Pressure Cooker (8-Quart)
If you’re cooking for a larger crowd, doing extensive meal prep, or simply want more capacity, this 8-quart Instant Pot Duo Crisp is your go-to. It boasts all the incredible 11-in-1 functionality of its 6-quart sibling, but with extra room to spare. What really makes this model shine for the serious home cook is its pro-grade stainless-steel inner pot with a tri-ply bottom, making it durable enough for stovetop and oven use before going into the Instant Pot. This is a robust instant pot plus air fryer solution designed for families and batch cooking enthusiasts.
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Key Features:
- 11 Cooking Functions: Air fry, roast, bake, dehydrate, pressure cook, slow cook, sauté, steam, sterilize, warm, or cook rice.
- Customizable Smart Programs: 11 one-touch options for hearty meals.
- Good Food Done Faster: Cooks up to 70% faster.
- EvenCrisp Technology: Achieves the perfect crunch with 95% less oil.
- Customizable Air Fry Range: Temperature range of 70°F (21°C) to 450°F (232°C).
- Pro-Grade Cooking Pot: Durable stainless-steel (18/8) with a tri-ply bottom, stovetop- and oven-friendly.
- Family-Sized Capacity: 8-quart capacity, perfect for up to 8 servings.
- Quick Cleanup: Dishwasher-safe pressure cooking lid and inner pot.
- Power-Packed Performance and Proven Peace of Mind: 1500 watts, UL & ULC Listed, over 10 safety mechanisms.
- A Little Extra: Includes broil/dehydrator tray, air fryer basket, steam rack, both lids, protective pad, and storage cover.
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Pros:
- Larger 8-quart capacity is ideal for big families or meal prepping.
- Pro-grade inner pot offers superior durability and versatility.
- Wider air fry temperature range for more precise cooking.
- Combines pressure cooking and air frying seamlessly.
- Excellent safety features and easy cleanup.
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Cons:
- Takes up a significant amount of counter and storage space.
- Higher price point due to increased capacity and pro-grade features.
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User Impressions: Reviewers frequently praise the massive capacity, allowing them to cook entire chickens or large batches of food. The pro-grade pot is a standout feature for many, appreciated for its quality and ease of transfer. Users find it indispensable for healthy and efficient cooking, especially when entertaining.
3. Instant Pot Vortex Plus 4QT Air Fryer, Custom Program Smart Cooking
Now, shifting gears slightly! While not an “Instant Pot plus air fryer” in the sense of combining pressure cooking, the Instant Pot Vortex Plus 4QT is a phenomenal dedicated air fryer from the same trusted brand. If you’re primarily looking to add healthy, crispy cooking to your routine without needing the pressure cooking function, this compact gem is perfect. Its 4-quart capacity makes it ideal for smaller households, students, or singles looking to whip up quick snacks and meals with incredible ease and minimal oil. It’s all about compact convenience and great results.
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Key Features:
- 6 Cooking Functions: Air fry, bake, roast, broil, dehydrate or reheat.
- Adjustable Temperature: Dial it in from 95 to 400°F (35 to 205°C).
- User-Friendly Operation: One-touch settings and intuitive touchscreen.
- Compact Yet Capable: 4-quart capacity, perfect for up to 4 servings.
- EvenCrisp Technology: Achieves perfect crunch with 95% less oil.
- Quick Cleanup: Non-stick air fryer basket for effortless washing.
- Proven Peace of Mind: Safety features like overheat protection and auto-shutoff.
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Pros:
- Space-saving design, great for smaller kitchens or dorms.
- Excellent dedicated air frying performance with EvenCrisp technology.
- Extremely user-friendly with one-touch controls.
- Versatile for a compact unit, handling 6 different cooking functions.
- Easy to clean non-stick basket.
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Cons:
- No pressure cooking or other multi-cooker functions.
- Smaller capacity limits cooking larger meals.
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User Impressions: This air fryer gets high marks for its compact size, quick cooking times, and consistent results. Users love how easy it is to use for everyday items like fries, chicken nuggets, or roasted vegetables. It’s often recommended as a great entry-level air fryer or for those with limited kitchen space.
4. Instant Pot Vortex Plus 6QT Air Fryer with Odor Erase & ClearCook
Stepping up in size and features for dedicated air frying is the Instant Pot Vortex Plus 6QT with Odor Erase. This model is a game-changer for anyone who loves air frying but hates lingering kitchen smells. The built-in OdorErase air filters tackle cooking odors head-on, keeping your home smelling fresh. Plus, the ClearCook window lets you peek at your food’s progress without opening the basket and disrupting the cooking process. It’s a smart kitchen appliance designed for convenience and a pleasant cooking experience.
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Key Features:
- 6 Cooking Functions: Air fry, roast, broil, bake, reheat, and dehydrate.
- EvenCrisp Technology: Achieves the perfect crunch with 95% less oil.
- Sneak a Peak: ClearCook window for easy monitoring without opening.
- So-Long Smells: Built-in OdorErase air filters remove cooking odors.
- Your Favorites, Saved: 6 customizable presets for quick cooking.
- Family-Sized Capacity: 6-quart capacity handles up to 6 portions.
- Quick Cleanup: Dishwasher-safe cooking baskets and trays.
- Power Packed Performance: 1700 watts, ETL Certified.
- Proven Peace of Mind: Built-in safety features like overheat protection.
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Pros:
- OdorErase technology is a huge bonus, especially for strong-smelling foods.
- ClearCook window allows for visual monitoring, preventing overcooking.
- Good 6-quart capacity for families and larger portions.
- Customizable presets simplify repetitive cooking tasks.
- Healthy cooking with EvenCrisp technology.
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Cons:
- Dedicated air fryer, so no pressure cooking functionality.
- The OdorErase filters need occasional replacement.
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User Impressions: This model consistently receives praise for its OdorErase feature, which many users consider a game-changer. The ClearCook window is also a huge hit, making it easy to check on food without losing heat. Customers appreciate the consistent crispiness and the convenience of the customizable presets.
5. Instant Pot Vortex Plus 6QT ClearCook Air Fryer
Rounding out our list is another 6-quart powerhouse: the Instant Pot Vortex Plus 6QT ClearCook Air Fryer. This model shares many fantastic features with its OdorErase sibling, offering the same generous capacity and a clear view of your cooking. If the OdorErase feature isn’t a top priority for you, but you still want the convenience of the ClearCook window and the reliable performance of an Instant Pot air fryer, this unit is an excellent choice. It’s perfect for families who prioritize visible cooking and quick, delicious air-fried meals.
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Key Features:
- 6 Cooking Functions: Air fry, roast, broil, bake, reheat, and dehydrate.
- EvenCrisp Technology: Achieves the perfect crunch with 95% less oil.
- Sneak a Peak: ClearCook window lets you check your food without opening the basket.
- Your Favorites, Saved: 6 Customizable presets for even quicker cooking.
- Family-Sized Capacity: 6-quart capacity handles up to 6 portions.
- Quick Cleanup: Dishwasher-safe cooking baskets and trays.
- Power Packed Performance: 1700 watts, ETL Certified.
- Proven Peace of Mind: Built-in safety features like overheat protection and auto-off.
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Pros:
- ClearCook window allows for easy visual monitoring of food.
- Good 6-quart capacity suitable for most families.
- EvenCrisp technology ensures consistently crispy results.
- Customizable presets add significant convenience for frequently made dishes.
- Easy cleanup with dishwasher-safe parts.
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Cons:
- No pressure cooking functionality (dedicated air fryer).
- Lacks the OdorErase feature found in some other Vortex Plus models.
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User Impressions: Users love the practicality of the ClearCook window, finding it invaluable for preventing burnt food and achieving perfect crispiness. The capacity is frequently mentioned as ideal for family meals and snacks. It’s praised for its straightforward operation and consistent performance in delivering delicious, healthy air-fried dishes.
FAQ Section
Q1: What exactly does “Instant Pot plus air fryer” mean?
A: When we talk about an “Instant Pot plus air fryer,” we’re generally referring to multi-cookers, like the Instant Pot Duo Crisp models, that combine the functions of a pressure cooker, slow cooker, sauté pan, and more, with the added ability to air fry food using a specialized lid. It’s about getting two major kitchen appliances in one.
Q2: Are all Instant Pot air fryers also pressure cookers?
A: No, not all of them. While models like the Instant Pot Duo Crisp offer both pressure cooking and air frying capabilities, Instant Pot also makes dedicated air fryers under the “Vortex” line. These Vortex models focus solely on air frying and other dry cooking methods (like roasting, baking, dehydrating) and do not have pressure cooking functionality.
Q3: What are the main benefits of having an Instant Pot that air fries?
A: The biggest benefit is versatility and space-saving. You can cook entire meals, from tender stews to crispy chicken wings, all in one appliance. It speeds up cooking, promotes healthier eating by using less oil, and significantly declutters your kitchen by replacing multiple single-function devices.
Q4: Is air frying healthier than traditional deep frying?
A: Absolutely! Air frying typically uses up to 95% less oil than traditional deep frying. Instead of submerging food in oil, air fryers circulate hot air to achieve a crispy, golden-brown finish, leading to much lower fat content in your meals.
Q5: What kind of foods can I make with an Instant Pot air fryer?
A: The possibilities are endless! You can air fry anything from crispy fries, chicken wings, and roasted vegetables to baking cakes, dehydrating fruits, or even cooking a whole chicken. With the multi-cooker functions of a Duo Crisp, you can also pressure cook stews, rice, yogurt, and much more, then crisp them up.
Q6: How do I clean an Instant Pot air fryer combo?
A: Cleaning is usually pretty straightforward! Most Instant Pot air fryer models come with dishwasher-safe components like the inner pot and air fryer basket/trays. For the main unit and lids, a simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is all that’s needed. Always refer to your specific model’s manual for detailed cleaning instructions.
Q7: Is an “Instant Pot plus air fryer” a good investment for a small kitchen?
A: Yes, it can be a fantastic investment for a small kitchen! While the appliance itself might be larger than a single-function device, it replaces several other tools (pressure cooker, slow cooker, air fryer, steamer, etc.), ultimately saving you more counter and storage space in the long run.
