The Instant Pot RIO is more than just a kitchen gadget — it’s an entire kitchen in a single sleek appliance. Designed to replace up to seven appliances, the RIO is a smart, space-saving solution for home cooks who want speed, flexibility, and consistent results.
With modes like Pressure Cook, Slow Cook, Rice, Steam, Sauté, Yogurt, and Keep Warm, this 6-quart model is ideal for busy families, meal preppers, or anyone looking to cook healthier meals with less hassle.
Key Features:
- 7-in-1 Functionality – Pressure Cooker, Slow Cooker, Rice Cooker, Steamer, Sauté Pan, Yogurt Maker, Warmer
 - 6-Quart Capacity – Perfect for families or meal prepping
 - Redesigned Cooking Progress Indicator – Know what your Instant Pot is doing in real time
 - One-Touch Smart Programs – Preset modes for rice, stew, poultry, yogurt, and more
 - Stainless Steel Inner Pot – Durable and dishwasher-safe
 - 800+ Free Recipes in App – Step-by-step guidance for all skill levels
 
First Impressions & Design
Out of the box, the Instant Pot RIO immediately feels like a premium product. With its modern matte black finish and updated interface, it looks more streamlined and user-friendly compared to older models like the Duo.
The control panel is clear and responsive, with no guesswork required. Everything is laid out logically, from pressure cooking to yogurt. It’s easy to see what’s happening during the cooking process thanks to the updated progress bar on the display.
The inner stainless steel pot feels solid and is easy to clean, and the lid automatically seals when you close it — no more fiddling with steam valves.
Cooking Performance
This is where the Instant Pot RIO really shines. Whether you’re pressure cooking a roast, making creamy risotto, or slow-cooking chili, the results are consistently excellent.
- Pressure Cook: Cuts cooking time dramatically. Pot roast that usually takes 4 hours? Done in 45 minutes, tender and flavorful.
 - Slow Cook: Performs just like a traditional slow cooker — set it and forget it.
 - Rice & Grains: Comes out fluffy and consistent every time.
 - Sauté: Pre-sear meats or soften onions before switching to another mode — all in the same pot.
 - Yogurt Maker: Once intimidating, now incredibly easy with built-in instructions.
 - Keep Warm: Automatically activates after cooking to maintain perfect serving temperature.
 
The real power lies in combining these features. You can sauté and then slow cook a stew, or pressure cook rice and steam veggies right after — all with one appliance and one pot to clean.
The Recipe App: A Hidden Gem
One of the best features that often gets overlooked is the Instant Brands Connect App. It offers over 800 recipes tailored for this model. Each recipe includes:
- Step-by-step cooking instructions
 - Ingredient lists with serving size control
 - Cooking time and pressure level
 - Photos and tips from real users
 
It’s like having a cookbook and personal chef in your pocket.
Pros
- Replaces 7 appliances
 - Compact footprint with a 6-quart capacity
 - Fast, consistent results across cooking modes
 - User-friendly display with cooking progress indicator
 - Free app with hundreds of tested recipes
 - Easy to clean (dishwasher-safe pot and lid components)
 
Cons
- Takes time to learn all modes if you’re new to Instant Pots
 - Steam release valve can be intimidating for beginners
 - Doesn’t include extra accessories like a steamer basket or glass lid (sold separately)
 
RIO vs Duo: What’s the Difference?
While the Duo is a beloved classic, the RIO offers a more modern design, a better display, and updated safety features. It also feels more beginner-friendly thanks to clearer on-screen prompts and the simplified lid locking system.
If you’re buying your first Instant Pot or upgrading from an older model, RIO is the better long-term investment.
Final Verdict
The Instant Pot RIO 7-in-1 Electric Multi-Cooker is a must-have for anyone looking to simplify mealtime. With fast, flexible cooking modes, a user-friendly interface, and a massive recipe library, it’s more than a time-saver — it’s a game-changer.
Whether you’re making a quick weeknight dinner or prepping meals for the week, the RIO is reliable, safe, and surprisingly fun to use.

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