(checked 2026-10-10)About 186,000 ratings on a long-running listing that likely spans several Duo generations and sizes.
The best-selling classic, with about 186,000 Amazon ratings and a reputation for lasting years, but it lacks the start button, progress bar and easy lid of newer models, and Serious Eats dropped it partly for its steam release.
Top complaints
- Lid can be hard to lock; no on/off button
Food Network's only listed cons are a lid that can be difficult to lock and no on/off button. Wirecutter notes the Duo starts automatically once you choose a program.
Source: Food Network, Wirecutter (NYT) - Dated controls and steam release
Serious Eats left it out because it lacks a start button and progress bar and its steam release felt dangerous. Wirecutter says the newer Rio's panel is more intuitive.
- Occasional failures (lid errors, melting)
A few 1-star Walmart reviews on the Duo listing describe a sudden 'Lid' error that couldn't be fixed and plastic on the base melting after a few uses. That Walmart listing also mixes in reviews of other Instant Pot models.
Source: Walmart reviews (lowest rated)
What owners love
- Reliable all-round results
Food Network's best overall: fluffy rice, moist chicken and hummus-ready chickpeas. Amazon shoppers praise its 'set and forget' ease and quick cooking.
- Long-lasting
Wirecutter says many people, including staffers, have used their Duo for years and still love it.
Source: Wirecutter (NYT) - Low pressure and air-fryer lid option
Unlike the Rio, the Duo has a low-pressure setting and is compatible with Instant's air-fryer lid (Wirecutter).
Source: Wirecutter (NYT)
- You want a progress bar and start button
- Steam release makes you nervous
- You want a pot with handles
- Following the many recipes written for the Duo
- People who want a low-pressure setting
- Adding an air-fryer lid later
Scores (tap for why)
What experts say
- Food Network: Best overall (Feb 2025): performed very well in every test; cons are a lid that can be hard to lock and no on/off button.
- Wirecutter (NYT): Former top pick, still recommended if you want low pressure; long-lasting, though it lacks the Rio's improvements.
- Serious Eats (Instant Pots): Not recommended: no start button or progress bar, and a dangerous-feeling steam release.