Instant Pot Pro Plus Review 2025
The Ultimate 10-in-1 Smart Pressure Cooker
Quick Verdict
The Instant Pot Pro Plus is the most advanced pressure cooker from the pioneering brand, offering WiFi connectivity, comprehensive cooking programs, and excellent build quality. While the smart features add convenience, the core pressure cooking performance remains exceptional. It's an excellent choice for busy families and cooking enthusiasts who want maximum versatility.
Pros
- Excellent pressure cooking performance
- 10 cooking functions in one appliance
- WiFi connectivity and app control
- Large 8-quart capacity
- Comprehensive safety features
- Easy to clean stainless steel pot
- Intuitive control panel
- Great value for money
Cons
- Large footprint takes up counter space
- Learning curve for new users
- WiFi setup can be finicky
- App could use more features
- Loud pressure release
- Heavy when full (23 lbs empty)
In-Depth Review
Design and Build Quality
The Instant Pot Pro Plus showcases excellent build quality with a robust stainless steel construction and a sleek black exterior. The 8-quart capacity is perfect for families of 4-8 people, easily handling large roasts, whole chickens, or batch cooking for meal prep.
The control panel features a large, clear display with intuitive buttons for each cooking function. The interface is well-designed with logical groupings and easy-to-read labels. Build quality feels premium throughout, with solid construction that should last for years of regular use.
The inner pot is made from food-grade stainless steel with a tri-ply bottom for even heat distribution. It's dishwasher safe and remarkably easy to clean. The silicone sealing ring is removable and replaceable, which is essential for long-term maintenance.
Cooking Performance
Pressure cooking performance is exceptional. The Pro Plus reaches pressure quickly and maintains it consistently throughout the cooking cycle. Rice comes out perfectly fluffy, beans cook evenly without splitting, and tough cuts of meat become tender and flavorful.
The sauté function works well for browning ingredients before pressure cooking, though the heating element could be slightly more powerful for serious searing. Slow cooking performance is good, though dedicated slow cookers may offer more precise temperature control.
Steam cooking produces excellent results for vegetables and fish, maintaining nutrients and texture. The yogurt function is particularly impressive, maintaining precise temperatures for consistent results. The cake function works well for simple desserts and steamed puddings.
Smart Features and App
WiFi connectivity allows remote monitoring and control through the Instant Pot app. You can start cooking, adjust settings, and receive notifications when cooking is complete. The app includes recipe suggestions and cooking guides, though the selection could be more extensive.
Setup is straightforward but occasionally requires patience to establish a stable connection. Once connected, the system works reliably, though it's not essential for basic operation. The smart features are more convenience than necessity.
Voice control integration with Alexa and Google Assistant works well for basic functions like starting pre-programmed cycles or checking cooking status. The integration feels natural and adds genuine convenience for hands-free operation.
Cooking Programs and Versatility
The 10-in-1 functionality includes pressure cooking, slow cooking, rice cooking, steaming, sautéing, yogurt making, warming, sous vide, fermentation, and cake making. Each function works well, though some are more useful than others depending on your cooking style.
Pre-programmed settings for common foods like chicken, beef, rice, and beans take the guesswork out of cooking times and pressure levels. Advanced users can easily customize time and pressure settings for specific recipes or preferences.
The sous vide function maintains precise temperatures for restaurant-quality results, while the fermentation setting is perfect for making homemade yogurt, pickles, or sourdough starter. These specialized functions add significant value for adventurous cooks.
Safety Features
Safety is paramount with multiple redundant systems preventing accidents. The lid locks securely during pressure cooking and won't open until pressure is fully released. Pressure sensors prevent over-pressurization, while temperature sensors protect against overheating.
The pressure release valve is easy to operate and clearly indicates pressure status. Automatic keep-warm function prevents food from sitting at dangerous temperatures, while the delay start feature allows timed cooking with safety interlocks.
All safety certifications are current, including UL listing and FDA compliance for food contact surfaces. The comprehensive safety system provides peace of mind for pressure cooking novices.
Ease of Use and Cleaning
Operation is intuitive once you understand the basic principles of pressure cooking. The control panel is logically laid out, and the included quick-start guide covers essential functions. The learning curve is manageable for most users.
Cleaning is straightforward with the removable inner pot, lid, and sealing ring all dishwasher safe. The exterior wipes clean easily, though the black finish shows fingerprints. Regular maintenance involves cleaning the sealing ring and occasionally replacing it.
The condensation collector is a thoughtful addition that catches steam during operation. It's removable and dishwasher safe, preventing moisture buildup around the appliance.
What Users Are Saying
"This has revolutionized my meal prep. I can cook a week's worth of meals in Sunday afternoon. The WiFi features let me start dinner from the office. Rice comes out perfect every time."
"As a beginner cook, this makes complex dishes achievable. The preset programs take the guesswork out. Made perfect risotto and tender beef stew on my first tries."
"Great cooker but takes up significant counter space. WiFi setup was tricky, but once working, it's convenient. Love the yogurt function - saves money on store-bought."
"Replaced multiple appliances with this one unit. The sous vide function produces restaurant-quality steaks. Build quality is excellent - feels like it will last decades."
Technical Specifications
Capacity & Dimensions
- 8-quart capacity (7.6 liters)
- Serves 4-8 people
- 13.4" W x 12.2" D x 12.8" H
- Weight: 23 lbs (empty)
- Stainless steel inner pot
Cooking Functions
- Pressure cooking (High/Low)
- Slow cooking (High/Low/Medium)
- Rice cooking (White/Brown)
- Steam cooking
- Sauté/Browning
- Yogurt making
- Sous vide
- Fermentation
- Cake baking
- Keep warm
Smart Features
- WiFi connectivity (2.4GHz)
- Instant Pot app control
- Alexa & Google Assistant
- Remote monitoring
- Recipe database access
- Cooking notifications
Safety & Power
- 1200W power consumption
- UL listed safety certified
- 10 safety mechanisms
- Overheat protection
- Pressure monitoring system
- Automatic keep warm
Price Comparison
| Retailer | Price | Warranty | Availability | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Instant Pot Direct | $179 | 1 Year | In Stock | Buy Now |
| Amazon | $149 | 1 Year | In Stock | Check Price |
| Target | $159 | 1 Year | Limited Stock | View Deal |
| Walmart | $154 | 1 Year | Online Only | Shop Now |
Recipe Performance Test
Perfect Rice (White)
Time: 12 minutes pressure + 10 min natural release
Result: Fluffy, separate grains every time
Rating: ★★★★★
Beef Stew
Time: 35 minutes pressure + sauté browning
Result: Tender meat, well-integrated flavors
Rating: ★★★★★
Greek Yogurt
Time: 8 hours total (mostly hands-off)
Result: Thick, creamy, perfect consistency
Rating: ★★★★★
Sous Vide Steak
Time: 2 hours at 130°F
Result: Edge-to-edge medium rare
Rating: ★★★★☆
Photo Gallery
Alternatives to Consider
Ninja Foodi 14-in-1
Adds air frying capability
$199Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1
Basic model without WiFi
$79Breville Fast Slow Pro
Premium build, auto pressure release
$249