Instant Pot Duo Crisp 6‑Qt is my top pick for the best pressure cooker air fryer combo overall.
Picture this: You get home late, hungry, and want a roast that’s tender inside and crisp outside without heating the oven. A pressure cooker air fryer combo solves that—fast pressure cooking for depth, then a crisping lid to finish. I use one daily for weeknight meals, batch cooking, and even quick snacks. The best pressure cooker air fryer combo saves time, cuts dishes, and gives reliable results for busy homes.
Instant Pot Duo Crisp 11-in-1…
11 Cooking Functions: Air fry, roast, bake, dehydrate, pressure cook, slow cook, sauté, steam, sterilize, warm, or cook rice with ease. Customizable Smart Programs: Tackle every recipe with 15 one-touch…
Instant Pot Pro Crisp 11-in-1…
11 Cooking Functions: Pressure cook, air fry, slow cook, steam, sauté, sous vide, roast, bake, broil, dehydrate, or simply keep warm, all in one easy appliance. Two Lids, Total Flexibility:…
Instant Pot Duo Crisp 11-in-1…
11 Cooking Functions: Air fry, roast, bake, dehydrate, pressure cook, slow cook, sauté, steam, sterilize, warm, or cook rice with ease. Customizable Smart Programs: Tackle every recipe with 11 one-touch…
Instant Pot Duo Crisp 6‑Qt
I bought the Instant Pot Duo Crisp 6‑Qt to replace multiple appliances. It pressure cooks like a champ and the crisping lid delivers golden results. Setup is simple. Controls are intuitive and the included app has hundreds of recipes I use for ideas.
The inner pot is stainless and cleans up easily. I like cooking large cuts, soups, and weeknight chicken in pressure mode, then switching to air fry for texture. Heat is even and the crisping basket fits most family needs.
Pros:
- 11‑in‑1 functionality saves counter space and money
- Reliable pressure cooking and a strong crisping lid
- User‑friendly controls and helpful smartphone recipes
- Good 6‑quart capacity for typical families
- Easy to clean inner pot and dishwasher‑safe accessories
- Consistent results for roasts, fries, and baked goods
Cons:
- Lid swapping can interrupt flow during long cooks
- Air frying basket is smaller than dedicated fryers
- Unit takes counter space when both lids are kept
My Recommendation
I recommend the Instant Pot Duo Crisp 6‑Qt if you want a balanced all‑rounder. It’s best for families who need fast weeknight meals and occasional crisped dishes. The pressure functions reduce cook time while the air fryer lid gives a restaurant finish. Overall, this model ranks high among the best pressure cooker air fryer combo options for its mix of size, features, and price.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Weeknight families | 6‑qt fits dinners and leftovers easily |
| Beginner cooks | Simple interface and recipe app make learning easy |
| Small kitchens | Combines two appliances in one footprint |
Instant Pot Pro Crisp 8‑Qt
The Instant Pot Pro Crisp 8‑Qt is for larger households and meal preppers. I tested it with big cuts and found it holds heat well. Pressure cooking is fast and the air fryer lid crisps evenly over a larger area. Extra room lets me cook whole chickens without crowding.
Controls feel slightly more professional than entry models. The 8‑quart size is great for batch meals and parties. Accessories fit well and the pot’s brushed steel finish looks durable in my kitchen.
Pros:
- Larger 8‑quart capacity for crowds or batch cooking
- Robust crisping performance across a bigger surface
- More refined control options for precise cooking
- Great for roasts, casseroles, and meal prep
- Durable build and roomy inner pot
Cons:
- Heavier and takes more storage space
- Costs more than smaller models
- May be overkill for single cooks or couples
My Recommendation
If you feed a crowd or meal prep weekly, the Instant Pot Pro Crisp 8‑Qt is a smart step up. I suggest it for families who need the best pressure cooker air fryer combo capacity without losing crisping power. The larger size means fewer batches and less fuss. It’s a top choice when capacity and consistent results matter most.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Large families | 8‑qt capacity cooks bigger meals at once |
| Batch cooks | More room for meal prep containers and roasts |
| Entertainers | Better for party trays and bigger baked dishes |
Instant Pot Duo Crisp 8‑Qt
The Instant Pot Duo Crisp 8‑Qt mirrors the smaller Duo but adds space. I used it for family meals and found it balances speed and finishing texture. Pressure settings are reliable, and the air fryer lid seals well for crisping. It’s a solid pick if you need an 8‑quart but prefer the Duo feature set.
Cleaning was simple after heavy use. I appreciated the extra headroom for live steam and large pans. The overall experience matched expectations for an all‑in‑one that cooks fast and crisps well.
Pros:
- Roomy 8‑quart pot for larger recipes
- Good pressure and air crisping balance
- Proven Instant Pot reliability and safety features
- Works well for casseroles, whole poultry, and sides
- Easy to follow presets and manual modes
Cons:
- Bulky for smaller counters or storage
- Air fry basket limits for very large batches
- Both lids add to the number of parts to store
My Recommendation
The Instant Pot Duo Crisp 8‑Qt is my pick if you want the best pressure cooker air fryer combo size without splurging on pro models. I recommend it for families who desire a proven interface with extra capacity. You get fast pressure cooks plus reliable air frying in one unit. It’s an easy upgrade from 6‑qt models if you cook in larger quantities.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Growing families | 8‑qt handles bigger meals and batch sides |
| Weekly meal preppers | Less repetition and more batch capacity |
| Users wanting reliability | Instant Pot safety and support are well‑established |
Nuwave Duet Multicooker
The Nuwave Duet Multicooker is a newer contender that mixes pressure, air frying, and grilling techniques. I tested its three removable lids for different tasks; swapping lids is intuitive. It boasts many presets and includes useful accessories that expand what you can cook. The heavy stainless inner pot feels premium and cleans well.
What impressed me were the precise temperature controls and the versatile lid options. The grill lid gives a seared finish, and the air fryer lid crisps evenly. This model is a strong alternative when you want appliance consolidation in one machine.
Pros:
- Three lids cover pressure, air frying, and grilling
- Includes several accessories for versatile cooking
- Precise heat control improves delicate recipes
- Solid stainless inner pot builds confidence
- Good for users who like advanced cooking modes
Cons:
- Learning curve for using multiple lids effectively
- More parts mean more storage and cleaning
- Not as widely supported with recipe apps as larger brands
My Recommendation
I like the Nuwave Duet if you want a multifunctional approach beyond just pressure and air fry. It’s a top choice for enthusiasts who appreciate the best pressure cooker air fryer combo plus a built‑in grill function. Use it when you want seared steaks, crispy fries, and fast stews all from one unit. The added accessories deliver extra value for the adventurous cook.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Experimenters | Three lids unlock varied techniques |
| Accessory lovers | Comes with extra tools for flexible cooking |
| Stainless fans | 18/10 SS pot is durable and easy to clean |
Ninja Foodi PRO 6.5‑Qt
The Ninja Foodi PRO 6.5‑Qt brings TenderCrisp tech to combine pressure and air frying in one lid system. I found it excellent for juicy meats with a crispy finish. The cooking cycles are quick and the crisp is very close to pan‑fried textures. It’s straightforward to use and clean after heavy meals.
The 6.5‑quart size fits most family needs. I use it for ribs, chicken wings, and roasted vegetables. The Foodi handles searing, pressure stewing, and a fast crisp cycle without fuss.
Pros:
- TenderCrisp gives reliably crispy, juicy results
- Good balance of size and power in 6.5 qt
- Fast pressure cooking shortens meal time
- Solid presets for common dishes and textures
- Well‑designed lids make switching modes easy
Cons:
- Lid design can be bulky to store
- Air crisp basket may limit very large batches
- Some advanced settings need practice to master
My Recommendation
The Ninja Foodi PRO 6.5‑Qt is ideal for cooks who want consistent crisp and tender results. I recommend it as one of the best pressure cooker air fryer combo choices for cooks who prize texture. It shines for comfort foods and weeknight classics. Overall, its TenderCrisp tech makes it a reliable daily workhorse.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Texture seekers | Tender inside, crisp outside with TenderCrisp |
| Small families | 6.5 qt fits dinners without excess bulk |
| Busy cooks | Fast cycles for quick weeknight meals |
Instant Pot Duo Crisp Ultimate 6.5‑Qt
The Instant Pot Duo Crisp Ultimate 6.5‑Qt blends new features with more power at 1500W and a 13‑in‑1 function set. I tested its sous vide and proof modes in addition to pressure and air fry. The additional functions make it more than a two‑in‑one; it’s a kitchen command center. The unit responds quickly and holds temperature steady for delicate tasks.
The 6.5‑quart size offers flexibility without dominating the counter. I’ve used it for yogurt, proofing dough, and crisping a fast dinner. The app support and added programs help me explore new recipes with less trial and error.
Pros:
- 13‑in‑1 features including sous vide and proof
- Powerful 1500W heating for faster crisping
- Great mid‑size capacity at 6.5 qt
- App recipes help expand cooking options
- Versatile for both everyday and special recipes
Cons:
- More options mean steeper learning at first
- Higher wattage may be overkill for basic users
- Advanced features may not be used by casual cooks
My Recommendation
I recommend the Instant Pot Duo Crisp Ultimate 6.5‑Qt if you want the most versatile best pressure cooker air fryer combo with extra features. It fits cooks who want to sous vide, proof, and air crisp in one machine. If you enjoy testing recipes and exploring techniques, this model adds real value. For everyday cooks who want range, it’s a compelling choice.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Experimental cooks | Sous vide, proof, and more expand technique options |
| Mid‑size households | 6.5 qt offers room without being bulky |
| Tech‑forward users | App support and advanced presets make experimentation easy |
FAQs Of best pressure cooker air fryer combo
What is a pressure cooker air fryer combo and how does it work?
A pressure cooker air fryer combo pairs rapid steam pressure cooking with a high‑heat air crisping lid. I use pressure to soften and tenderize foods fast. Then I switch to air fry to remove moisture and add browning. The result is fast, tender inside and crispy outside in one appliance.
Are these combos safe to use daily?
Yes. Modern combos include multiple safety interlocks and pressure sensors. I follow the manual and check seals and valves often. Routine cleaning of the vent and gasket keeps them safe for daily use.
Which size should I pick: 6, 6.5, or 8 quarts?
Choose based on household size. I recommend 6‑6.5 qt for 2–4 people. Pick 8 qt if you entertain or batch cook weekly. Consider storage and counter space when upgrading to 8 qt.
Can I use both lids at once or switch during cooking?
You can switch lids between phases of cooking. I pressure cook first, then swap to the crisping lid. Don’t use both lids simultaneously. Always release pressure fully and follow the manual when changing lids.
How do I keep the crisping performance consistent?
I dry foods before air frying and avoid overcrowding the basket. A light spray of oil helps browning. Regularly clean the heating element and basket to maintain airflow and crisping quality.
Final Verdict: Which Should You Buy?
If you want a reliable, all‑rounder that fits most kitchens, the Instant Pot Duo Crisp 6‑Qt is my top pick for the best pressure cooker air fryer combo. It balances capacity, price, and ease of use.
For larger households, choose the Instant Pot Pro Crisp 8‑Qt. For experimental cooks, the Duo Crisp Ultimate and Nuwave Duet add features that expand what you can make. Each model delivers real value in 2026.




