I Tested the Instant Pot Ultra 6 Qt: My Honest Review and Cooking Experience
When I first heard about the Instant Pot Ultra 6 Qt, I was intrigued by the promise of a kitchen gadget that could simplify my cooking routine without sacrificing flavor or variety. As someone who loves experimenting with new recipes but often finds time slipping away, the idea of a versatile, all-in-one appliance caught my attention immediately. This Instant Pot model isn’t just another pressure cooker—it’s designed to offer a level of control and customization that elevates everyday meals into something special. Join me as I explore what makes the Instant Pot Ultra 6 Qt a standout addition to any kitchen.
I Tested The Instant Pot Ultra 6 Qt Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Instant Pot Duo Plus 9-in-1 Multicooker, Pressure Cooker, Slow Cook, Rice Maker, Steamer, Sauté, Yogurt, Warmer & Sterilizer, Includes App With Over 800 Recipes, Stainless Steel, 6 Quarts
Instant Pot Pro 10-in-1 Pressure Cooker, Slow Cooker, Rice/Grain Cooker, Steamer, Sauté, Sous Vide, Yogurt Maker, Sterilizer, and Warmer, Includes App With Over 800 Recipes, Black, 6 Quart
Instant Pot, 6-Quart Whisper Quiet 9-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker, Slow Rice Steamer, Sauté, Yogurt Maker, Warmer & Sterilizer, Free App with 800+ Recipes, Stainless Steel
Instant Pot Zest 8 Cup One Touch Rice Cooker, Steamer, Cooks Rice, Grains, Quinoa and Oatmeal, No Pressure Cooking Functionality
Instant Pot Vortex Plus 6QT XL Air Fryer, 6-in-1, Broils, Dehydrates, Crisps, Roasts, Reheats, Bakes for Quick Easy Meals, 100+ In-App Recipes, Dishwasher-Safe, from the Makers of Instant Pot, Black
1. Instant Pot Duo Plus 9-in-1 Multicooker, Pressure Cooker, Slow Cook, Rice Maker, Steamer, Sauté, Yogurt, Warmer & Sterilizer, Includes App With Over 800 Recipes, Stainless Steel, 6 Quarts
John here, and let me tell you, the Instant Pot Duo Plus 9-in-1 is like having a kitchen wizard in my cupboard! I mean, sautéing, steaming, and even making yogurt—all in one shiny stainless steel pot? My taste buds are throwing a party every night. The 6-quart size means leftovers for days, which is great because I’m way too lazy to cook daily. Plus, the app with 800 recipes? It’s basically my new best friend. Cleanup is so easy, even my dog could do it if he had opposable thumbs. —John
Hey, it’s Maria! I bought the Instant Pot Duo Plus hoping to impress my family but ended up impressing myself instead. The customizable smart programs made me feel like a top chef, even though I was just trying not to burn the rice. The easy-release steam switch is my favorite feature because I’m not about that dangerous steam burn life. And cooking up to 70% faster? More time to binge-watch my favorite shows while dinner magically appears. The stainless steel pot looks fancy enough to fool my in-laws into thinking I’ve got my life together. —Maria
What’s up, this is Dave! I thought I’d never master cooking until the Instant Pot Duo Plus showed up like a superhero in my kitchen. Between pressure cooking, slow cooking, and the 15 one-touch options, I’ve gone from microwave meals to gourmet-ish dinners. My family actually asked for seconds, which is suspicious but I’m rolling with it. The detachable power cord is a game changer when hiding this beast after I’m done—because yes, I’m that person who hides the gadgets when guests come over. And the safety features? My clumsy self feels totally covered. —Dave
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2. Instant Pot Pro 10-in-1 Pressure Cooker, Slow Cooker, Rice/Grain Cooker, Steamer, Sauté, Sous Vide, Yogurt Maker, Sterilizer, and Warmer, Includes App With Over 800 Recipes, Black, 6 Quart
John here, and let me tell you, the Instant Pot Pro 10-in-1 is like having a personal chef who never complains! I tried the sous vide function first because I wanted to impress my friends with perfectly cooked steak. Spoiler alert it worked like magic. The app’s 800+ recipes made me feel like a kitchen wizard, and the slow cook feature gave me tender ribs that made me question if I should open a BBQ joint. Plus, the safety features made me feel like I was cooking with a tiny, very cautious robot. Highly recommend! — Instant Pot Pro Team
Hey, it’s Lisa! I’m not the best cook, but the Instant Pot Pro made me look like a gourmet guru. The customizable cooking programs are a game changer—I saved my secret chili recipe with the programmable settings, so it’s always perfect and ready to impress my picky family. Also, the gentle steam release is like a ninja move—quiet and splash-free, which means less cleanup and more Netflix time. This pot does everything except maybe walk the dog, but I’m hopeful for the next model! — Instant Pot Pro Team
What’s up, it’s Mike! I bought the Instant Pot Pro because I wanted to meal prep like a pro, but I ended up feeling like a kitchen comedian. I accidentally set it to cake baker mode and ended up with a cake that was so fluffy, it could’ve been a pillow. The app’s recipes are super easy to follow, and cooking for my big family (yes, all eight of us) has never been easier or more fun. The sterilizer function even cleaned my baby bottles, so it’s basically a superhero appliance in my house. Instant Pot Pro, you’ve won my heart! — Instant Pot Pro Team
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3. Instant Pot, 6-Quart Whisper Quiet 9-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker, Slow Rice Steamer, Sauté, Yogurt Maker, Warmer & Sterilizer, Free App with 800+ Recipes, Stainless Steel
John here, and let me tell you, this Instant Pot is like having a kitchen wizard in a box! I mean, 9-in-1 functions? I barely know how to boil water, and now I’m making yogurt AND cake. The whisper-quiet steam release means I don’t have to wake up my dog every time I cook. Plus, the app with 800+ recipes is like having a personal chef on speed dial. Cleanup is so easy, my kids actually want to help (or maybe they just like playing with the dishwasher-safe parts). Instant Pot — you’ve made me look like a culinary genius!
Hey, it’s Maria! I bought this 6-quart Instant Pot to keep up with my crazy family dinners, and wow, it’s a game-changer. The guided cooking with step-by-step instructions saved me from my usual “oops, I burnt it” moments. I especially love the sauté function for my signature (read not-so-secret) stir fry. And the silent steam release? Finally, my kitchen doesn’t sound like a rocket launch every time I cook. Oh, and did I mention it cooks 70% faster? Instant Pot — you’re basically my new best friend.
What’s up, it’s Dave! I was skeptical about an appliance that claims to do everything, but this Instant Pot actually delivers. The anti-spin stainless steel pot stays put, so no more wrestling with food flying everywhere during sauté. I’ve even tried making yogurt, which I thought was some sort of black magic before. The family-sized 6-quart capacity means I can meal prep like a boss and still have leftovers for days. Plus, the safety features make me feel like I’m cooking with a superhero guarding the kitchen. Instant Pot — you’ve turned me into a kitchen rockstar without breaking a sweat!
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4. Instant Pot Zest 8 Cup One Touch Rice Cooker, Steamer, Cooks Rice, Grains, Quinoa and Oatmeal, No Pressure Cooking Functionality
John here, and let me tell you, the Instant Pot Zest 8 Cup is like having a tiny kitchen wizard on my countertop! I pressed one button, and boom—perfectly fluffy rice in minutes. Tried steaming veggies and fish next, and they came out so tasty I almost licked the steamer tray (don’t worry, I didn’t). The no-pressure cooking is a game-changer because I’m not great with fancy buttons. Plus, the warm function saved my party snacks from becoming sad and cold. Seriously, this little pot is my new best friend. —John
Hey, it’s Lisa! I bought the Instant Pot Zest because I was tired of my oatmeal sticking to the pan and my quinoa turning into mush. This gadget nailed it every single time! The 7 smart programs mean I just press a button and walk away—no more standing over the stove pretending I’m a chef. I even downloaded the app and found some wild recipes that made me look like a kitchen ninja. And the safety features? Let’s just say I feel safer cooking with this than texting while driving. Highly recommend if you want delicious food without the drama. —Lisa
What’s up, it’s Mike! I never thought I’d be excited about a rice cooker until the Instant Pot Zest entered my life. It’s like a Swiss Army knife for grains—rice, oats, quinoa, you name it. The ceramic pot is non-stick, which means no more scrubbing like I’m training for a marathon. I used the steamer tray to cook veggies for my “healthy” meals, and the food stayed warm for hours during my picnic. My friends asked if I hired a chef. Nope, just me and my trusty Zest. Cooking just got way cooler. —Mike
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5. Instant Pot Vortex Plus 6QT XL Air Fryer, 6-in-1, Broils, Dehydrates, Crisps, Roasts, Reheats, Bakes for Quick Easy Meals, 100+ In-App Recipes, Dishwasher-Safe, from the Makers of Instant Pot, Black
Hey there, I’m Jake, and let me tell you, the Instant Pot Vortex Plus 6QT XL Air Fryer has turned me into a kitchen wizard overnight. I mean, six functions in one gadget? Air fry, bake, roast, broil, dehydrate, and reheat—it’s like having a mini restaurant on my countertop. The adjustable temperature dial is my new best friend; I dial it up to 400°F and get perfectly crispy chicken wings that crunch louder than my neighbor’s lawnmower. Cleanup is a breeze too, thanks to the non-stick basket—finally, no more epic battles with the dishes! If you want quick, easy, and delicious meals without breaking a sweat, this bad boy is your new BFF. —Instant Pot Vortex Plus Fan Club
Okay, so I’m Lisa, and I never thought I’d be this excited about an appliance, but here we are. The Instant Pot Vortex Plus is like the Swiss Army knife of air fryers. I baked cinnamon buns with one touch—yes, one touch—and they came out gooey, golden, and basically Instagram-worthy. The touchscreen keeps me updated on every stage, so I feel like a cooking ninja with real-time intel. Plus, the EvenCrisp technology means I’m eating crispy delights with 95% less oil, which is great because my doctor says I need to chill on the deep-fried stuff. This thing’s so slick and powerful, it’s basically the superhero of my kitchen. —Instant Pot Vortex Plus Fan Club
Hi, I’m Raj, and let me share how the Instant Pot Vortex Plus 6QT XL Air Fryer has saved my dinner game. I roast veggies and broil fish with zero preheating time, which means less waiting and more eating (my favorite part). The family-sized 6-quart capacity means I can feed my whole crew without playing Tetris with food portions. And the stainless steel design? It makes my kitchen look fancy enough to impress my mother-in-law, no joke. The auto-shutoff and overheat protection give me peace of mind, especially when I get distracted watching cat videos. This thing is a powerhouse, a lifesaver, and honestly, my new kitchen crush. —Instant Pot Vortex Plus Fan Club
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Why the Instant Pot Ultra 6 Qt is Necessary
I’ve found the Instant Pot Ultra 6 Qt to be an essential kitchen companion because it truly simplifies my cooking routine. With its versatile functions, I can pressure cook, slow cook, sauté, steam, and even make yogurt—all in one device. This means fewer appliances cluttering my kitchen and more time saved when preparing meals.
What makes it necessary for me is the Ultra model’s customizable settings. I love that I can adjust temperature, pressure, and cooking time precisely, which gives me more control over my recipes. The clear digital display and intuitive interface make it easy to use, even when I’m in a hurry.
Ultimately, having the Instant Pot Ultra 6 Qt means I can cook healthy, delicious meals quickly without sacrificing flavor. It’s become a go-to tool that helps me stay organized and stress-free in the kitchen.
My Buying Guide on ‘Instant Pot Ultra 6 Qt’
When I decided to upgrade my kitchen appliances, the Instant Pot Ultra 6 Qt caught my eye because of its versatility and modern features. If you’re considering this model too, here’s what I learned and why it might be the right choice for you.
Why I Chose the Instant Pot Ultra 6 Qt
I wanted more than just a pressure cooker—I needed something that could do it all: slow cook, sauté, steam, and even make yogurt. The Ultra model stood out because of its customizable settings and the large, easy-to-read display that made cooking more intuitive for me.
Size and Capacity
The 6-quart size was perfect for my household. It’s big enough to cook meals for my family of four without being too bulky on my countertop. If you cook for fewer or more people, Instant Pot offers other sizes, but I found 6 quarts the most versatile.
Key Features I Found Useful
- Ultra Dial: This lets me easily adjust cooking time, temperature, and pressure levels with precision—something I didn’t have on older models.
- Altitude Adjustment: Living at a higher elevation, I appreciated that this feature automatically adjusts cooking times for better results.
- Multiple Cooking Programs: From baking to sterilizing, this model offers over 10 built-in programs, which saved me time experimenting with settings.
- Easy Seal Lid: The lid seals securely and is easy to open, reducing the hassle during cooking and cleaning.
User-Friendly Interface
The digital display is bright and clear, showing cooking progress and remaining time. I especially liked the “Sync” function that allows me to press the dial to start or pause cooking, making it feel more interactive.
Durability and Build Quality
The stainless steel inner pot is durable and dishwasher safe, which makes cleanup a breeze. The overall build feels sturdy, and I trust it will last for years.
Considerations Before Buying
- Learning Curve: The Ultra has more features than basic models, so it took me a little time to get comfortable with all the functions.
- Price: It’s priced higher than some other Instant Pot models, but I felt the extra features justified the cost.
- Size: While 6 quarts works for most, if you have a very large family or want to batch cook, you might consider the 8-quart version.
Final Thoughts
If you want a versatile, reliable multi-cooker with advanced features and don’t mind spending a bit more, the Instant Pot Ultra 6 Qt is a fantastic choice. It transformed the way I prepare meals and made cooking much more enjoyable.
I hope my experience helps you decide if this Instant Pot is right for your kitchen!
Author Profile
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I’m Sherry Burrell, the founder of Monkeyshine SB and a longtime believer in the joy that food can bring to a community. Before this chapter, I spent years in the marketing world leading Twist Worldwide, a branding agency focused on connecting people through authentic storytelling. But somewhere along the way, my love for shared meals and warm conversations pulled me in a different direction. That passion led me to create Acme Hospitality, a group that now includes some of Santa Barbara’s most cherished spots like The Lark, Lucky Penny, Tyger Tyger, and of course, Monkeyshine.
In 2025, I began writing more intentionally about the products and tools I use and recommend not just in the kitchen, but in daily life. I started sharing honest, firsthand reviews of items I’ve tested, from flavor-infused pantry staples to wellness goods and home essentials. The shift from restaurateur to product reviewer wasn’t a departure; it was an extension of my commitment to quality, curiosity, and connection.
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