That’s one of the best prices we’ve seen on the high-capacity multi-cooker. (Not to be confused with the Duo Nova released in 2019.) It has since been replaced with the Duo Gourmet, discussed above. The Instant Pot Duo SV is another Costco-exclusive Instant Pot model. It has been replaced by the Duo Gourmet and is in the process of being phased out.
However, the DUO Nova is undoubtedly still in the minority, offering a pressure release button. The pressure release button is our absolute favorite thing about the DUO Nova’s user experience. This button sits about two inches from the pressure valve and allows you to open that valve without actually touching it. Thus, having a button that makes this process quicker, easier, and safer is a welcome addition. The number of Instant Pot models has grown over the years to the point that there’s almost a confusing number of these devices available. Some are more straightforward than others, like the Duo Crisp, which includes an air-fry mode and comes with the appropriate lid for it.
Even for singles or couples I still think a 6 qt is the best choice for one’s first or only IP. The VAST majority of recipes online or in books are written for 6 qt. Also you may initially THINK you aren’t going to make some of the recipes moosoo air fryer that require a 6 qt but may soon really “get into” pressure cooking and wish you had the 6 quart. The only time I recommend a 3 quart is as a second pressure cooker. There are only two of us and our primary Instant Pot is a 6 quart.
Instant Pot is the standard-bearer of top-tier pressure cookers, and the addition of a pressure release button to the DUO Nova makes it one of the best cookers that we’ve ever tested. Plus, this all comes at a relatively reasonable, middle-of-the-road level price. The exterior of the Instant Pot pressure cooker is comprised of brushed stainless steel, and it can be cleaned with a damp cloth.
For basic, everyday cooking, it functions similarly to the others. The Instant Pot Duo’s exterior is has been available in mint, white, and coral. You can also get the Duo in the exclusive Pioneer Woman floral design and in black or red stainless steel through Walmart. The Instant Pot Duo is the most popular, best-selling Instant Pot of all time.
Using my Nova in my RV, the only issue is there is no place to safely release pressure. My coach is older with lower ceiling which is some sort of fabric, and I can’t release pressure without unplugging and moving it to the table where there is nothing overhead but the ceiling. It’s a bit disconcerting but we are remodeling our kitchen instant vortex and it’s been a real godsend overall. When the weather improves I may use it outside on a sturdy table. Meanwhile I’m using it with only a couple inches between the top and the bottom of the microwave oven. I suppose I could close the folding top on the three burner stove and put it there but that defeats the purpose of having a stove.