Electric cooking pot – find out what it can do and who should buy one

Don't have time to spend hours at the stove? Then electric cookers are made just for you. Fryers, rice cookers, multi-cookers, sous-vide and others are helpers that can cook, stew, bake or heat without you having to stir or check anything during the process. Just set the program and devote yourself to anything else (work, children or just your own doing nothing) and then just pick up the perfect result.

We'll show you what types of electric cookers there are, who they make sense for and what to choose according to.

What to (not) expect from an electric cooker?

In essence, electric cookers cook themselves, or rather, they do a remarkable part of the work for you. You take care of the ingredients, set the program, and then... wait. Which can be a win - or a bore. It depends on how you approach cooking.

What you can expect:

Even temperatures and precise cooking,
The option to cook, stew, bake, heat, sometimes even fry or make yoghurt
Time and energy savings

And what not to expect:

culinary ecstasy from stirring the sauce
space saving - some models are very large
miracles without reading the instructions

Electric pots

Most popular electric cookers based on our customers' ratings

Electric cookers under the microscope: Which type is right for you?

Not all electric cookers are the same. Each has different advantages and targets a slightly different cooking style – from slow-cooking stock to the precise science of sous-vide. Let's break them down nice and clearly.

Multi cookers

A universal solution for everyday cooking – they can cook, stew, bake, steam, prepare yoghurt, stock or even rice. Some models also offer the functions of a fryer or preserving pot, all in one compact device.

Who it's for: Ideal for those who want to save time, space and effort, while still maintaining control over the result.

Things to consider: The varied functions are often practical, but it’s worth thinking about which ones you’ll actually use.

Cutters

A compact appliance designed primarily for preparing perfectly cooked rice – without burning, guessing or watching. Many models can also handle other side dishes such as quinoa, couscous or steamed vegetables.

Who it's for: For those who eat rice regularly and appreciate simplicity, reliability and time savings.

Things to consider: A rice cooker is essentially a single-purpose device – if you’re looking for a versatile solution for the whole kitchen, opt for a multi-cooker.

Sous-vide

Cooking using the sous-vide method means maximum control over the temperature and the result. The ingredients are prepared in a vacuum bag at a low temperature, which preserves their flavour, juiciness and nutrients.

Who it's for: For chefs who appreciate precision and enjoy working with modern techniques. Ideal for meat, fish, as well as vegetables or eggs in perfect consistency.

Things to watch out for: Sous-vide is a technique that requires planning and patience. It won't work without a vacuum and preparation – but the result is worth it.

Fryers

Deep frying can take two forms. Classic deep fryers cook food submerged in oil – with the typical taste and texture we know from restaurants. Air fryer models use hot air circulation, achieving a similar effect with minimal fat and no unpleasant odours.

Who it's for: Those who want to enjoy home-cooked fried food.

Things to consider: Traditional fryers require a lot of oil and subsequent cleaning. Air fryer models are more practical, but the resulting texture may be a little drier.

Egg cookers

Soft-boiled, medium-boiled, or hard-boiled? Simply add water, insert the eggs, set the desired level, and switch it on. No arguments, no timing, no watching the pot on the hob.

Who it's for: For those who prepare eggs regularly and want to be sure that the result will always be perfect. Ideal for stress-free breakfast rituals.

Things to watch out for: It is a single-purpose appliance – but if you are serious about eggs, you will hardly want to cook any other way.

Our tip

How to choose an electric cooking pot?

Size and capacity: Bigger isn't always better

The volume plays a key role in some electric cooking pots, such as multifunctional, slow or pressure models. Elsewhere, for example with rice cookers or egg cookers, keep an eye on how many portions or pieces they can handle at once.

In general:

Smaller appliances (up to 3 l) are suitable for individuals or couples.
Medium sizes (4–6 l) will cover the needs of a normal household.
Larger models (over 6 l) will be appreciated by larger families or those who like to cook in bulk.

But remember – the larger the volume, the more space the appliance takes up on the counter (or in the cupboard). And if you're only cooking for yourself, you probably won't appreciate a cooking pot that can handle eight portions of goulash.

Materials: What's inside

The inner pots of electric cookers are made of different materials – each has its advantages and limitations. It's not just about appearance or price, but mainly about the way it conducts heat and how it works with maintenance.

Stainless steel – durable, versatile and easy to clean.
Ceramics – well accumulates heat and is suitable for longer, gradual cooking.
Non-stick surface (often aluminium) – practical for maintenance, but more sensitive to scratching.

Some appliances (e.g. egg cookers or sous-vide) do not work with an inner pot at all – there you look more at the quality of workmanship as a whole than at the specific material.

Control: Simply or with a program

The control of electric cookers ranges from minimalist to sophisticatedly smart. It depends on whether you just need to turn the dial, or you want to be able to precisely set each step.

Manual control – simple, intuitive, no display.
Digital interface – advanced settings, timers, preset programmes.
Touch panels or smart apps – some models even offer mobile control.

Each method has its advantages. While simpler controls are clear and 'foolproof', digital models offer greater comfort and precision.

Features you'll appreciate

Modern electric cookers can do more than just heat up. Some features you’ll use every day, others only when you realise you simply can't do without them:

Delayed start – set when the appliance should start cooking.
Temperature maintenance – food stays warm, even if you arrive late.
Automatic switch-off – safety and peace of mind.
Preset programmes – cooking rice, eggs, yoghurt, baking, stewing, preserving and more, depending on the type of appliance

Electric pots

It depends on how you cook. Multi-purpose cooking pots save time, space and energy - especially for dishes that require long cooking times or precise temperatures. It can be a pleasant addition for some, a fully-fledged alternative to traditional cooking for others.

Generally, they have lower consumption than an oven or hob – especially slow cookers or pressure cookers. Consumption naturally varies depending on the type, size and length of operation, but for most common dishes it remains within reasonable limits.

Yes, but it depends on the specific model. Multi-cookers and some air fryers can bake – for example, meat, vegetables, and even smaller cakes or bread. The key is the right programme and enough space in the container.

An air fryer is healthier and easier to maintain. A traditional fryer offers an authentic fried taste. It depends on what you expect from fried foods – speed, taste, or a compromise between the two.

Most internal containers (especially removable ones) are dishwasher safe. However, never wash the body of the appliance under running water – a damp cloth is sufficient. It’s always worth reading the manufacturer's instructions.

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