I’ve cooked with multiple Instant Pots over the years, and this article exists for one clear reason: to help you decide whether the Instant Pot Pro or the Pro Plus actually fits your cooking habits.
I’m writing this from firsthand use and careful analysis, focusing on real features, daily usability, and long-term value so you can confidently choose the right model for your kitchen without overpaying or underusing advanced tech.
| Feature | Instant Pot Pro | Instant Pot Pro Plus |
| Control type | Manual buttons and dial | App-based with Wi-Fi |
| Smart features | None | Built-in smart programs via app |
| Pressure levels | Customizable | Automated via recipes |
| Learning curve | Moderate | Higher for non-tech users |
| Best for | Hands-on cooks | Set-it-and-forget-it users |
| Price | Lower | Higher |
| App dependency | No | Yes |
Why I Compared the Instant Pot Pro and Pro Plus
I didn’t start this comparison out of curiosity.
I started it out of frustration.
After owning simpler Instant Pot models, I wanted something more powerful and flexible, but I didn’t want to pay for features I’d never use.
That’s where the Pro and Pro Plus enter the picture.
They look similar.
They promise professional-level results.
But they behave very differently in day-to-day cooking.
If you’re standing in the same decision zone I was, this comparison is meant to save you time, money, and buyer’s remorse.
Understanding the Instant Pot Pro at a Practical Level
The Instant Pot Pro feels like the evolution of traditional Instant Pot cooking.
It keeps manual control at the center of the experience.
What I noticed immediately was the upgraded inner pot, which has flat handles and thicker construction that works on stovetops.
That alone changes how you cook.
I can sauté directly, then pressure cook, without switching cookware.
The control panel uses buttons and a dial, which feels intuitive once you’ve used it a few times.
There’s no app involved.
Everything happens in front of you.
For someone like me who enjoys adjusting pressure levels, cooking times, and release methods manually, the Pro feels empowering rather than limiting.
What Makes the Instant Pot Pro Plus Different
The Pro Plus is a different philosophy altogether.
This model is designed around automation and connectivity.
Instead of manually setting pressure and time, you select recipes through the app.
The Instant Pot connects to Wi-Fi and handles the cooking process automatically.
When I first used it, the experience felt impressive but distant.
I wasn’t cooking so much as supervising.
The app walks you through steps, sends notifications, and controls pressure release.
For people who like structure and guidance, this can feel reassuring.
For people who enjoy hands-on control, it may feel restrictive.
Learning Curve and User Experience
The Instant Pot Pro has a learning curve, but it’s logical.
If you’ve used any pressure cooker before, the transition is smooth.
You learn through repetition.
The buttons become muscle memory.
The Pro Plus shifts that learning into the app.
You’re learning software, not cooking mechanics.
I found myself checking my phone more than the pot.
That’s not inherently bad, but it changes the relationship you have with the appliance.
If your Wi-Fi drops or the app updates unexpectedly, cooking can feel interrupted.
Cooking Performance in Real Meals
Performance is where both models shine, but in different ways.
The Instant Pot Pro gives consistent, repeatable results when you know what you’re doing.
I’ve cooked beans, stews, rice, yogurt, and even bread dough with excellent control.
The Pro Plus excels when following guided recipes.
I tested identical dishes side by side.
The Pro required my input.
The Pro Plus required my trust.
Both produced good food, but the Pro gave me more flexibility to adjust seasoning, timing, and texture on the fly.
Pressure Control and Customization
Pressure control is where I felt the biggest difference.
The Instant Pot Pro allows more manual customization.
You decide when to release pressure.
You decide how long to sauté.
You decide when to stop.
The Pro Plus automates pressure release in many recipes.
That’s convenient, but sometimes I wanted to intervene.
The app doesn’t always allow that.
If you like being in control, this matters more than you might expect.
Daily Convenience vs Long-Term Satisfaction
At first, the Pro Plus felt exciting.
New technology always does.
Over time, I gravitated back to the Pro.
Why?
Because convenience isn’t just about automation.
It’s about reliability.
The Pro works regardless of Wi-Fi, phone battery, or app updates.
It’s always ready.
That reliability becomes more valuable the longer you own it.
Maintenance Tips
- Clean the stainless steel inner pot after every use to prevent residue buildup and preserve cooking performance.
- Wash the sealing ring regularly and keep a spare ring for savory and sweet dishes to avoid flavor transfer.
- Wipe the lid, steam release valve, and float valve after each cooking session to prevent clogging and ensure safe pressure release.
- Remove and clean the anti-block shield monthly to stop food particles from affecting pressure regulation.
- Allow all components to dry completely before reassembling to prevent odors and moisture-related issues.
- For the Pro Plus, keep the mobile app updated to maintain stable connectivity and proper function of smart features.
- Periodically check the power cord and base for dust or moisture and clean with a dry cloth only.
- Store the lid upside down on the cooker or rack to allow airflow and reduce lingering smells.
Instant Pot Pro Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Manual control allows precise cooking adjustments, which is ideal for experienced home cooks.
- No reliance on Wi-Fi or apps, making it dependable in any kitchen environment.
- Upgraded inner pot works on stovetops, adding flexibility.
- Faster workflow for users who already understand pressure cooking.
- Lower price compared to the Pro Plus, offering strong value.
Cons: - Less guidance for beginners who prefer step-by-step instructions.
- No smart notifications or remote monitoring.
- Requires active decision-making during cooking.
Instant Pot Pro Plus Pros and Cons
Pros:
- App-guided recipes reduce guesswork and stress for beginners.
- Automatic pressure release increases safety and consistency.
- Remote monitoring lets you check cooking progress from anywhere.
- Smart programs adjust settings dynamically for better results.
Cons: - Heavy reliance on Wi-Fi and app stability.
- Less flexibility for manual adjustments.
- Higher price without improving core cooking hardware.
- Can feel disconnected for hands-on cooks.
Also Read: Comparison Of Miele Vs. Bosch Induction Cooktops
Price, Value, and Who Each Model Is Really For
Price alone doesn’t determine value.
What matters is how much of the machine you’ll actually use.
The Instant Pot Pro delivers value through function.
You pay for hardware and performance.
The Pro Plus delivers value through experience.
You’re paying for software and guidance.
If you enjoy cooking and want to grow your skills, the Pro feels like a better long-term investment.
If cooking feels overwhelming, the Pro Plus can act as a helpful bridge.
Why Some People Are Moving Away from Instant Pots
I’ve noticed more people selling or giving away Instant Pots lately.
The reason isn’t failure.
It’s expectation mismatch.
Some people buy them hoping for instant meals with zero involvement.
That’s unrealistic.
Others upgrade to smart models only to realize they prefer manual control.
Choosing the right model upfront prevents that regret.
How This Decision Impacts Your Cooking Habits
The choice between the Instant Pot Pro and the Pro Plus quietly shapes how you cook more than you might expect.
I noticed this shift almost immediately after switching between the two models.
With the Instant Pot Pro, I became more involved in the cooking process.
I paid closer attention to pressure levels, sauté timing, and natural versus quick release.
That hands-on approach made me more confident and flexible in the kitchen.
I started adjusting recipes based on taste, texture, and even mood rather than following instructions word for word.
Cooking felt like an active skill I was developing rather than a task I was completing.
The Pro Plus created a very different rhythm.
Instead of thinking about how long to pressure cook or when to release steam, I focused on selecting the right recipe in the app.
That structure reduced mental load, especially on busy days.
I cooked more consistently but experimented less.
Over time, I realized the Pro Plus nudged me toward routine meals rather than creative ones.
Neither habit is better or worse.
If you want cooking to feel effortless and predictable, the Pro Plus naturally supports that mindset.
If you want to learn, adapt, and feel ownership over the results, the Pro encourages growth.
Your appliance becomes a silent partner in shaping your confidence.
When your tool aligns with how you think and move in the kitchen, cooking feels natural instead of forced.
That alignment is what ultimately determines whether your Instant Pot becomes a daily essential or an occasional gadget.
Also Read: My Thoughts On Beko Gas Range
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The best version depends on whether you prefer manual control or app-guided cooking.
Many people realize they don’t use all the features or choose the wrong model for their habits.
Yes, if you value manual control, durability, and cooking flexibility.
The Duo Plus offers more presets, while the Duo is simpler and more budget-friendly.
Final Thoughts
After using both models extensively, I’ve learned that the Instant Pot Pro and Pro Plus serve two very different types of cooks.
If you value control, reliability, and long-term satisfaction, the Pro is likely the better fit for you.
If you want structure, automation, and guided cooking, the Pro Plus may suit you better.
You deserve an appliance that works with you, not one that complicates your routine.
Choose based on how you actually cook, not how you think you should cook.
