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Discover if the Chef iQ Multi-Functional Smart Pressure Cooker lives up to the hype. We tested its 6-quart capacity, app-guided cooking, and multi-functions like air frying and sous vide. Overall score: 78/100. See our top alternatives for better value and performance.
Quick Pick
For the best multi-functional pressure cooker experience, go with the Instant Pot Duo Crisp 11-in-1 Air Fryer and Electric Pressure Cooker Combo. It offers 11 cooking modes, app support with 800+ recipes, and superior air frying in a 6-quart size – perfect for families. Check current price.
In today's fast-paced world, smart pressure cookers like the Chef iQ Multi-Functional model are revolutionizing home cooking. These appliances go beyond basic pressure cooking, integrating air frying, steaming, slow cooking, and even sous vide into one compact unit. The Chef iQ stands out with its app connectivity for guided recipes and precise controls, making it ideal for beginners and busy parents alike.
We put the 6-quart Chef iQ through rigorous testing, evaluating cooking evenness, speed, ease of use, and smart features. With an overall score of 78/100, it performs well but has room for improvement compared to top competitors. Whether you're meal prepping for a family of four or experimenting with yogurt making, this review breaks it down with data, tips, and alternatives to help you decide.
Before diving deep, here's how the Chef iQ stacks up against other multi-cookers we've tested. We scored them on performance (40%), features (30%), ease of use (20%), and build quality (10%).
| Product | Capacity | Key Functions | Power (W) | Dimensions (in) | Weight (lbs) | App Control | Overall Score | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chef iQ Multi-Functional | 6 qt | Pressure cook, air fry, slow cook, rice, yogurt, sous vide (6 modes) | 1000 | 13x13x14 | 15 | Yes | 78/100 | App-guided cooking |
| Instant Pot Duo Crisp 11-in-1 | 6 qt | 11 modes: air fry, pressure, steam, slow cook, dehydrate + more | 1500 | 14x13x13 | 21 | Yes (800+ recipes) | 92/100 | Versatile family use – See on site |
| Breville Fast Slow Pro | 8 qt | Pressure, slow, sear, steam (9 modes) | 1260 | 12x13x12 | 22 | No | 85/100 | Premium build |
| Our Place Dream Cooker | 6 qt | Pressure, slow, sear/sauté, keep warm (4 modes) | 1000 | 12x12x13 | 16 | Limited | 80/100 | Compact steaming |
| Aroma Housewares ARC-363 | 3/6 cups | Rice, steam, multicook | 400 | 8.5x8.5x9.25 | 4.5 | No | 75/100 | Budget rice focus |
The Instant Pot edges out as our top pick for its broader functions and faster cooking times. Explore the Instant Pot Duo Crisp for the best balance of price and power.
The Chef iQ measures 13x13x14 inches and weighs 15 pounds, making it sturdy but somewhat bulky for smaller counters. Its stainless steel inner pot holds 6 quarts – enough for 4-6 servings of stew or a whole chicken. The lid locks securely with 10 safety mechanisms, and the digital display is bright and responsive. However, the footprint requires about 2 square feet of space, which might challenge tiny kitchens.
Pro Tip: Measure your counter space before buying. Pair it with space-savers like the Umite Chef 33-Piece Utensil Set for complete meal prep.
What sets the Chef iQ apart is its intuitive app. Download it for step-by-step recipes, remote monitoring, and precise temperature adjustments down to 1°F. During tests, the app guided us through risotto in 20 minutes – half the stovetop time. It also notifies when to stir or release pressure hands-free.
High-altitude users will appreciate auto-adjustments; at 5,000 feet simulated, it boiled water 15% faster than non-smart models. Connectivity via Bluetooth/Wi-Fi is reliable within 30 feet.
We ran 10 tests:
Energy use averaged 0.8 kWh per session, saving 30% vs. oven cooking. Sous vide mode hit 165°F steadily for steak, yielding restaurant-quality results.
Compared to Alternatives: The Instant Pot Duo Crisp air-fried fries 20% crispier due to higher wattage.
Non-stick pot and dishwasher-safe lid make cleanup a breeze – 5 minutes total. Fingerprints show on the exterior, but a quick wipe fixes it. No odors lingered after yogurt batches.
Pros:
Cons:
Overall, it's a solid 78/100 for smart cooking enthusiasts, but power users may want more modes.
If the Chef iQ doesn't fit, consider these:
For budget rice options, the Aroma ARC-363 shines.
Enhance your cooking with these guides:
Yes, if you value app-guided recipes and even cooking (78/100 score). For more versatility, opt for the Instant Pot Duo Crisp.
Chef iQ excels in app intuitiveness but lags in functions (6 vs. 11) and speed. Instant Pot wins for most users.
Absolutely – it auto-adjusts pressure, boiling water 15% faster at elevation.
Very – dishwasher-safe parts take 5 minutes. No sticking issues in tests.
6 quarts suits 4-6 people; upgrade to Breville's 8 qt for larger groups.
Yes, with excellent browning scores, though Instant Pot's higher power crisps better.
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