I’ve spent countless hours in the kitchen, experimenting with gadgets that promise to make cooking easier, faster, and tastier. The Instant Pot Pro and Pro Plus are two heavyweights in the multicooker world, but which one deserves a spot on your counter?
In this article, I’ll break down their features, weigh their pros and cons, and share my real-world experience to help you decide. Whether you’re a busy parent or a culinary enthusiast, I’ll guide you through the differences to find the perfect fit for your kitchen.
A brief Comparison Table
| Feature | Instant Pot Pro | Instant Pot Pro Plus |
| Cooking Programs | 28 smart programs | 28 smart programs + app integration |
| Wi-Fi Connectivity | No | Yes, with Instant Pot app |
| Capacity | 6-quart, 8-quart | 6-quart only |
| Price (Approx.) | $130 (6-quart), $150 (8-quart) | $170-$200 (6-quart) |
| Baking Function | Yes | Yes |
| Lid Design | Upgraded with steam release switch | Same as Pro, plus app control |
| Cooking Functions | 10-in-1 (pressure cook, slow cook, etc.) | 10-in-1 + remote app control |
| Interface | Button-heavy, detailed control panel | Similar, but app simplifies settings |
| Accessories | Standard (steam rack, handles) | Same, plus app-guided recipes |
My Journey With Instant Pots
I’ve been an Instant Pot fan since I first unboxed one years ago. The idea of a single appliance handling everything from pressure cooking to yogurt making was a game-changer for me.
Over time, I’ve tested multiple models, and the Pro and Pro Plus stand out as premium options.
Both are packed with features, but their differences can make or break your decision depending on your cooking style. Let’s explore what sets them apart and how they performed in my kitchen.
Key Features of The Instant Pot Pro
The Instant Pot Pro feels like the brand’s attempt to refine its classic design.
It’s a 10-in-1 multicooker, meaning it handles pressure cooking, slow cooking, rice cooking, steaming, sautéing, yogurt making, warming, sous vide, sterilizing, and baking.
Yes, baking!
You can whip up cakes or breads right in the pot, which I found surprisingly fun for small batches.
The Pro boasts 28 smart programs, which are pre-set cooking modes for specific dishes like soup, beans, or poultry. These programs take the guesswork out of cooking by automatically adjusting time and pressure.
For example, I made a beef stew using the “Meat/Stew” program, and it came out tender in under 40 minutes—a fraction of the time it’d take on the stove.
The interface is detailed, with a button-heavy control panel that gives you granular control over settings. You can tweak pressure levels (high or low), adjust cooking times, and monitor progress with indicators for heating and cooking stages.
The upgraded lid design includes a steam release switch, which I found safer and easier to use than older models’ manual valves. The Pro comes in 6-quart and 8-quart sizes, making it versatile for small or large households. In my tests, the 6-quart was perfect for my family of four, while the 8-quart suited bigger gatherings.
Pros of The Instant Pot Pro
I found plenty to love about the Instant Pot Pro. First, its versatility is unmatched for the price. With 10 cooking functions and 28 smart programs, it handles everything from quick weeknight dinners to experimental sous vide.
I made a creamy yogurt batch that rivaled store-bought brands, and the baking function produced a surprisingly moist chocolate cake.
The control panel, while busy, gives you precise control. I adjusted the pressure and time for a chili recipe to get the beans just right, something less intuitive on simpler models. The two size options (6-quart and 8-quart) make it adaptable for different households.
For me, the 6-quart was ideal for daily meals, but I borrowed an 8-quart for a holiday potluck and appreciated the extra capacity.
The upgraded lid with its steam release switch is a safety win. I’ve used older Instant Pots where releasing steam felt like a gamble, but the Pro’s switch is smooth and controlled. At $130-$150, it’s also more budget-friendly than the Pro Plus, making it a great choice if you don’t need smart features.
Cons of The Instant Pot Pro
However, the Pro isn’t perfect. The button-heavy interface can feel overwhelming at first. I spent a few minutes figuring out which button did what, especially when switching between functions like sauté and pressure cook.
If you’re not tech-savvy or prefer simplicity, this might frustrate you.
The lack of Wi-Fi connectivity means you’re tethered to the kitchen. I didn’t miss this feature much, but there were times—like when I was juggling laundry and cooking—when remote control would’ve been nice.
Also, while the 28 programs are great, I rarely used more than a handful. Some, like the “Multigrain” setting, felt redundant for my cooking needs.
Key Features of The Instant Pot Pro Plus
The Pro Plus takes everything I love about the Pro and adds a modern twist: Wi-Fi connectivity.
This “smart” multicooker connects to the Instant Pot app, letting you control it from your phone.
I was skeptical at first—do I really need to start my pressure cooker from my couch?
But after testing it, I found the app useful for specific scenarios.
For instance, I set up a batch of mashed potatoes using the app’s recipe guide, sent the settings to the pot, and worked in another room while it cooked.
The app notified me when it reached pressure and finished cooking, which was a nice touch.
Like the Pro, the Pro Plus is a 10-in-1 multicooker with the same 28 smart programs and baking function. It shares the same upgraded lid and stainless steel inner pot, but it’s only available in a 6-quart size.
The app also offers step-by-step recipes, which I found handy for complex dishes like risotto, though I sometimes preferred googling simpler recipes tailored to my pantry staples. The Pro Plus’s price is higher—around $170-$200 compared to the Pro’s $130-$150—which makes its smart features the main differentiator.
Pros of The Instant Pot Pro Plus
The Pro Plus shines with its smart features. The Wi-Fi connectivity and app integration are game-changers for tech lovers. I loved setting up a recipe on my phone and letting the pot do its thing while I worked.
The app’s recipe library, while not perfect, offers guided cooking that simplifies complex dishes. For example, I followed a curry recipe that walked me through each step, from sautéing spices to pressure cooking the meat.
The Pro Plus retains all the Pro’s cooking prowess—same 10 functions, same 28 programs, same baking capability. I made a cheesecake in it, and the results were impressively creamy, rivaling my oven-baked versions.
The app also lets you monitor cooking progress remotely, which I found useful when I stepped out to grab groceries but wanted to check on my pot roast.
Despite its higher price, the Pro Plus feels premium. The mirrored display panel looks sleek, though it’s a fingerprint magnet. If you’re into modern kitchen tech, this model’s connectivity makes it stand out.
Cons of The Instant Pot Pro Plus
The Pro Plus’s biggest drawback is its price. At $170-$200, it’s a significant jump from the Pro, and I’m not convinced the smart features justify the cost for everyone. The app, while useful, isn’t flawless.
I found its recipe selection limited, especially for quick meals using basic ingredients. I often resorted to online recipes instead, which made the app feel less essential.
The Wi-Fi feature also has niche appeal. I rarely needed to start cooking remotely, and leaving ingredients in the pot for hours before cooking raised concerns about food safety. For example, I wouldn’t feel comfortable setting up raw chicken in the morning and starting it from my office.
The Pro Plus is also limited to a 6-quart size, which might not suit larger families.
How Instant Pot Pro And Pro Plus Compare In Action?
To get a true sense of how these models perform, I put them through a series of tests in my kitchen.
First up: a classic beef stew. Both the Pro and Pro Plus handled it beautifully, using the “Meat/Stew” program.
The Pro took 35 minutes to produce tender beef and perfectly cooked vegetables.
The Pro Plus did the same, but I used the app to set it up, which saved me a few button presses.
Both delivered rich, flavorful results, with no noticeable difference in taste or texture.
Next, I tried baking. I made a small vanilla cake in each, using the baking function. Both produced moist, evenly cooked cakes, though I had to tweak the Pro’s settings manually, while the Pro Plus’s app guided me through the process. The app’s step-by-step instructions were helpful, but I didn’t find the end result superior enough to warrant the price difference.
For a tech-focused test, I used the Pro Plus to cook rice while I was in another room. The app notified me when it was done, which was convenient, but I realized I could achieve the same result with the Pro by setting a timer on my phone. The Pro Plus’s remote control felt like a luxury, not a necessity.
Finally, I tested yogurt making. Both models excelled, producing thick, tangy yogurt after an 8-hour cycle. The Pro required more manual setup, but the process was straightforward once I got the hang of it. The Pro Plus’s app made it slightly easier by pre-setting the temperature and time, but again, the results were identical.
Which One Fits Your Kitchen?
Choosing between the Pro and Pro Plus depends on your cooking habits and tech preferences. If you’re like me and love tinkering with settings, the Pro’s detailed control panel is a joy.
Its lower price and two size options make it versatile for most households. I’d recommend it for anyone who wants a reliable, feature-packed multicooker without breaking the bank.
The Pro Plus, on the other hand, is for tech enthusiasts or those who value convenience. The app integration is slick, and remote control can be a lifesaver if you’re multitasking. However, its higher price and single size option make it less appealing for budget-conscious buyers or larger families.
In my experience, the Pro is the better all-around choice. The smart features of the Pro Plus are nice but not essential, especially if you’re comfortable with manual controls. That said, if you’re already invested in a smart kitchen—think Wi-Fi-enabled ovens or fridges—the Pro Plus fits right in.
- Comparing To Other Instant Pot Models
To put the Pro and Pro Plus in context, I compared them to other popular models like the Duo Plus and Vortex Plus.
The Duo Plus, a step below the Pro, offers 15 smart programs and 9-in-1 functionality (no baking).
It’s budget-friendly but lacks the Pro’s advanced lid and granular controls.
The Vortex Plus is an air fryer-focused model, great for crispy foods but less versatile for pressure cooking or baking.
The Pro and Pro Plus feel like premium upgrades, especially for baking and sous vide enthusiasts.
- Tips For Getting The Most Out of Your Instant Pot
Whichever model you choose, a few tips can elevate your experience. First, experiment with the smart programs—they’re designed to simplify cooking, but don’t be afraid to adjust settings for your taste.
I found that tweaking the “Soup” program’s time gave me a thicker broth. Second, invest in accessories like a silicone steam rack or extra inner pot for easier cleanup.
Finally, clean the lid and sealing ring regularly to prevent odor buildup—I learned this the hard way after a curry left its mark.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
The Instant Pot Pro is the best for most users due to its versatility, two size options, and lower price. The Pro Plus is ideal if you want smart features, but the Pro offers the best value.
Yes, the Pro Plus has a baking function, allowing you to make cakes, breads, and more. It performs identically to the Pro’s baking feature.
The Vortex Plus is an air fryer with some pressure cooking capabilities, focusing on crispy foods. The Pro is a true multicooker with 10 functions, including baking and sous vide, making it more versatile.
The Duo Plus is a 9-in-1 multicooker with 15 smart programs, lacking the Pro’s baking function and advanced lid. It’s a budget-friendly option for basic pressure cooking and slow cooking.
Conclusion: Your Perfect Instant Pot Awaits
After testing both the Instant Pot Pro and Pro Plus, I’m confident you’ll find a model that fits your kitchen. If you want a reliable, versatile multicooker without the extra cost, the Pro is your go-to. Its 10 functions, 28 programs, and two size options make it a workhorse for any home cook.
If you’re drawn to smart tech and love the idea of controlling your pot from your phone, the Pro Plus delivers a premium experience—though it comes at a premium price. Whichever you choose, you’re getting a tool that’ll save time and spark creativity in your cooking.
So, what’s it going to be? Grab the Pro for value or the Pro Plus for flair, and let me know how it transforms your meals!