Like many home cooks, my journey with Instant Pot began with curiosity and the promise of faster, easier meals. I started with the Instant Pot Duo Crisp, drawn to its all-in-one convenience—pressure cooker by day, air fryer by night. It felt like I had found the ultimate kitchen companion.
But as I grew more confident and adventurous in the kitchen, I began to notice the little things I wished were better—faster preheating, more intuitive controls, and a sturdier design.
That’s when I discovered the Instant Pot Pro Crisp, the upgraded version promising smarter features and more power.
What followed was a hands-on experience with both models—learning their strengths, noticing their differences, and figuring out which one truly fits my cooking style.
Instant Pot Pro Crisp vs. Duo Crisp
| Feature | Instant Pot Pro Crisp | Instant Pot Duo Crisp |
| Price (Approximate) | $215 | $125 |
| Cooking Functions | 11 (Pressure Cook, Sauté, Steam, Slow Cook, Sous Vide, Air Fry, Roast, Bake, Broil, Dehydrate, Keep Warm) | 11 (Same as Pro Crisp) |
| Capacity | 8 quarts | 6 or 8 quarts |
| Power | 1200W (pressure cooking), 1500W (air frying) | 1500W (both functions) |
| Inner Pot | Flat-bottom, silicone-handled, stovetop/oven-safe | Arched-bottom, no handles |
| Control Panel | Digital display, rotating dial, progress bar | Button-based, simpler display |
| Steam Release | Whisper Quiet switch, diffused release | Manual Quick Release button |
| Air Fry Temperature | Up to 450°F (232°C) | Up to 400°F (204°C) |
| Sauté Settings | 1–6 levels for precise control | High and Low settings only |
| Exterior Finish | Black, sleek | Silver, stainless steel |
| Accessories | Stainless steel pot, air fryer basket, broil rack, pressure lid, air fryer lid | Same as Pro Crisp |
| Weight | 26.2 lbs (11.88 kg) | 22.7 lbs (10.3 kg) |
My Journey with Instant Pot: Why I Chose These Models
When I first heard about Instant Pots, I was skeptical. Could one appliance really replace my slow cooker, pressure cooker, and air fryer? After borrowing a friend’s Duo Crisp for a weekend, I was hooked. The ability to pressure cook a stew and then crisp it up with the air fryer lid felt like magic. But when the Pro Crisp came out, I wondered if it could take things to the next level. I bought both to put them to the test, cooking everything from chili to chicken wings to see which one truly shines.
Key Features of the Instant Pot Pro Crisp
The Instant Pot Pro Crisp feels like the premium cousin in the lineup. Its sleek black exterior gives my kitchen a modern vibe, and the redesigned inner pot is a game-changer.
The flat bottom means oil doesn’t pool at the edges when I’m sautéing, and the silicone-coated handles stay cool, making it easy to transfer the pot to the table.
I love the digital display with its cooking progress bar—it’s like having a little sous-chef telling me exactly where I’m at in the process.
The Pro Crisp’s air fryer lid reaches a scorching 450°F, perfect for getting that golden crunch on fries or wings. Its sauté function offers six levels of heat, so I can fine-tune everything from a gentle simmer to a high sear. The Whisper Quiet steam release is a thoughtful touch, diffusing steam without the startling hiss I’ve come to expect from pressure cookers. Plus, the inner pot is stovetop and oven-safe, which I’ve used to finish dishes under the broiler for extra browning.
Key Features of the Instant Pot Duo Crisp
The Duo Crisp, with its silver stainless steel finish, is the reliable workhorse of the two. It shares the same 11 cooking functions as the Pro Crisp—pressure cook, sauté, steam, slow cook, sous vide, air fry, roast, bake, broil, dehydrate, and keep warm—but it’s typically $90 cheaper. The arched-bottom inner pot doesn’t have handles, which can make it trickier to maneuver, especially when it’s hot. Its air fryer maxes out at 400°F, which is still great for most recipes but doesn’t quite match the Pro Crisp’s intensity.
The control panel is simpler, with buttons instead of a digital dial, which I found intuitive but less precise. The steam release is a manual Quick Release button, which works fine but can be loud and startling. I’ve used the Duo Crisp to make everything from yogurt to roasted vegetables, and it’s never let me down, especially for the price.
Pros of the Instant Pot Pro Crisp
- Upgraded Inner Pot: The flat bottom and silicone handles make sautéing and serving a breeze. I’ve even popped it in the oven to finish a dish.
- Higher Air Fry Temperature: At 450°F, it delivers crispier results, especially for foods like chicken wings or Brussels sprouts.
- Precise Sauté Control: Six heat levels let me dial in the perfect temperature, whether I’m caramelizing onions or searing a steak.
- Whisper Quiet Steam Release: The diffused steam release is quieter and feels safer, reducing the risk of burns.
- Sleek Design: The black finish and large LED display give it a premium look that stands out on my counter.
- Energy Efficiency: Extra insulation around the cooking area saves energy, which I noticed on my electric bill after frequent use.
Cons of the Instant Pot Pro Crisp
- Pricey: At around $215, it’s a significant investment compared to the Duo Crisp’s $125 price tag.
- Bulky: Weighing 26.2 pounds and measuring over 14 inches tall with the air fryer lid, it’s not easy to store in a small kitchen.
- No 6-Quart Option: Only available in 8 quarts, which might be too large for smaller households.
- Learning Curve: The advanced control panel can feel overwhelming for beginners, especially with the lack of preset programs for specific foods.
Pros of the Instant Pot Duo Crisp
- Affordable: At $125, it’s a steal for a multi-cooker with air frying capabilities, saving me from buying a separate appliance.
- Versatile: The 11 cooking functions cover everything I need, from sous vide to dehydrating fruit slices.
- Compact Options: Available in both 6- and 8-quart sizes, it’s better suited for smaller kitchens or families.
- User-Friendly: The button-based control panel is straightforward, making it easy for anyone to pick up and use.
- Reliable Performance: It consistently delivers tender meats and crispy air-fried foods, even if it’s not as refined as the Pro Crisp.
Cons of the Instant Pot Duo Crisp
- Lower Air Fry Temperature: The 400°F max temp means slightly less crispy results compared to the Pro Crisp.
- Basic Inner Pot: The arched bottom can make sautéing uneven, and the lack of handles makes it harder to handle when hot.
- Noisy Steam Release: The Quick Release button is loud and can release a strong burst of steam, which startled me the first few times.
- Less Precise Controls: Only High and Low sauté settings limit flexibility for more nuanced cooking.
My Cooking Experiments: Putting Both to the Test
To really understand these machines, I decided to cook the same dishes in both and compare the results. First up was a classic: beef chili. I used the pressure cook function on both to make the chili base, then switched to the air fryer lid to crisp up some cornbread topping. The Pro Crisp’s flat-bottom pot made sautéing onions and beef more even, and its precise heat settings helped me avoid burning the garlic. The Duo Crisp did a solid job, but I noticed oil pooling at the edges, which required more stirring.
The chili itself came out equally tender in both, with the pressure cooking taking about 20 minutes. However, the Pro Crisp’s Whisper Quiet steam release was a relief—no loud hiss to make me jump. When I air-fried the cornbread topping, the Pro Crisp’s 450°F gave it a slightly crispier crust in less time than the Duo Crisp’s 400°F.
Next, I tried chicken wings. I pressure-cooked them to tenderize, then air-fried for crispiness. The Pro Crisp’s higher temperature delivered wings with a noticeably crunchier skin, though the Duo Crisp’s results were still delicious. The Pro Crisp’s air fryer basket felt sturdier, and the silicone handles made it easier to shake the wings mid-cook.
For a dessert test, I baked a pound cake. Both models handled it well, but the Pro Crisp’s flat-bottom pot made it easier to remove the cake without sticking. The Duo Crisp’s arched pot required more careful maneuvering. Overall, the Pro Crisp edged out slightly in ease of use and final texture, but the Duo Crisp wasn’t far behind.
Design and Usability: A Side-by-Side Look
The Pro Crisp’s black exterior and digital display make it feel like a high-end appliance. The rotating dial and progress bar give me a sense of control, almost like I’m operating a spaceship. But it’s not perfect—the size is a real issue. My kitchen counter isn’t huge, and the Pro Crisp’s 14.78-inch height with the air fryer lid makes it a beast to store. I’ve resorted to keeping it out permanently, which isn’t ideal.
The Duo Crisp, with its silver finish, blends into my stainless-steel appliances. It’s slightly lighter at 22.7 pounds, and the 6-quart option is a lifesaver for my smaller recipes. The button-based controls are less flashy but get the job done without much fuss. The downside? The arched pot and lack of handles make it less convenient for tasks like sautéing or serving.
Performance: Which One Cooks Better?
Both models excel at pressure cooking, producing tender roasts and perfectly cooked rice in a fraction of the time it’d take on the stovetop. In my tests, the Pro Crisp pressurized slightly faster (about 5 minutes versus the Duo Crisp’s 6–8 minutes), likely due to its extra insulation. For air frying, the Pro Crisp’s higher temperature and better air circulation gave it an edge, especially for foods that need a deep crunch.
Sous vide is a standout feature on both. I cooked a steak sous vide in each, and both maintained steady temperatures within a degree or two of the target. However, the Pro Crisp’s digital controls made it easier to set precise temperatures. Slow cooking was a tie—both produced melt-in-your-mouth pulled pork after 8 hours.
Price and Value: Is the Pro Crisp Worth the Extra Cost?
The $90 price difference is the elephant in the room. The Duo Crisp’s $125 price tag makes it a no-brainer if you’re on a budget or don’t need the Pro Crisp’s bells and whistles. I’ve found it to be a fantastic entry-level multi-cooker, especially if you’re new to Instant Pots or air frying. The 6-quart option is perfect for smaller households, and the savings can go toward accessories like an extra inner pot.
The Pro Crisp, at $215, is a splurge. But for frequent cooks like me, the upgraded inner pot, precise controls, and higher air fry temperature justify the cost. If you’re pressure cooking or air frying daily, the Pro Crisp’s efficiency and ease of use add up over time. It’s also a better choice if you want a sleek, modern appliance that doubles as a statement piece.
Who Should Buy the Pro Crisp?
The Pro Crisp is for you if you’re a serious home cook who values precision and versatility. Its advanced features—like the flat-bottom pot, six sauté settings, and higher air fry temperature—cater to those who want to experiment with complex recipes or entertain frequently. If you have the counter space and budget, it’s a worthy investment that can replace multiple appliances.
Who Should Buy the Duo Crisp?
The Duo Crisp is ideal for budget-conscious cooks or those new to multi-cookers. Its lower price and simpler controls make it accessible, while still offering the same 11 cooking functions. The 6-quart option is great for small families or apartments, and it’s a fantastic way to dip your toes into air frying without committing to a standalone unit.
My Verdict: Which One Wins?
After weeks of cooking with both, I’m torn. The Duo Crisp is my go-to for quick, budget-friendly meals. Its simplicity and affordability make it a winner for everyday use. But the Pro Crisp’s refined design and performance edge out for special occasions or when I’m feeling fancy. If I had to pick one, I’d lean toward the Pro Crisp for its upgraded features, but the Duo Crisp is a close second for its value.
Ultimately, your choice depends on your cooking habits, budget, and kitchen space. If you’re like me and love experimenting in the kitchen, the Pro Crisp’s precision and polish might steal your heart. But if you want a reliable, affordable multi-cooker that does it all, the Duo Crisp won’t disappoint.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
The Pro Crisp has a flat-bottom inner pot with silicone handles, a higher air fry temperature (450°F vs. 400°F), six sauté settings, a Whisper Quiet steam release, and a digital display with a progress bar. The Duo Crisp is cheaper, has a simpler button-based control panel, and comes in 6- or 8-quart sizes.
“Instant Pot” refers to the brand’s multi-cooker line. The Duo is a specific model with 7 cooking functions (pressure cook, sauté, slow cook, steam, rice, yogurt, warm). Other models, like the Pro or Duo Crisp, add features like air frying or sous vide.
The Instant Pot Pro is a 10-in-1 multi-cooker without air frying, featuring a digital display and precise controls. The Duo is a 7-in-1 model with basic controls and a lower price. The Duo Crisp adds air frying, while the Pro Crisp combines the Pro’s features with air frying.
The best model depends on your needs. The Pro Crisp is ideal for versatility and precision, the Duo Crisp for budget-friendly air frying, the Pro for advanced pressure cooking, and the Duo for beginners seeking affordability and simplicity.
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Conclusion: Your Kitchen, Your Choice
I’ve loved putting the Instant Pot Pro Crisp and Duo Crisp through their paces, and I hope my experience helps you make an informed decision. Whether you’re drawn to the Pro Crisp’s sleek design and precise controls or the Duo Crisp’s affordability and versatility, both are fantastic tools that can transform your cooking. Think about your budget, counter space, and how often you’ll use features like air frying or sous vide. Whichever you choose, you’re getting a multi-cooker that’ll make your kitchen adventures easier and more delicious.