Hi! I am Frank. I’ve tested dozens of slow cookers and selected the 10 best slow cookers in the UK market to make the decision easier for you.
By Frank
As you may already know, we are big fans of good food (who isn’t?) and that is also the reason why a slow cooker, also known as a ‘crock pot’ is not missing in our kitchen. Cooking meat in a slow cooker/crock pot at a relatively low temperature intensifies the taste experience. Crock pot/slow cookers are also a great way to get a hot meal ready for dinner time without the hassle (especially useful after a busy day!). Whether you want a juicy chicken dinner or a beef stew for the whole family, the slow cooker is the way to go for flavourful results.
You can use them to cook all kinds of different ingredients. Most slow cookers are therefore often used for a nice piece of tender slowly cooked meat, a delicious stew, and many other dishes.
What are the 10 best slow cookers in the UK in 2024?
Below is a selection of the best-tested slow cookers from 2024. When compiling this TOP-10, we take different needs into account. And so you will find a slow cooker for every budget! Can’t figure it out? Then feel free to send us a message.
Best overall
For us, the best slow cooker is the Ninja Foodi 9-in-1 Multi-Cooker OP500UK This is truly a game-changer in the world of kitchen appliances. This versatile and innovative cooker combines the functionalities of multiple appliances into one, making it a fantastic all-in-one solution for any cooking enthusiast. From air frying to steaming to slow cooking, this is one of the best multi-cookers on the market.
It does it all with exceptional precision and efficiency. Its intuitive control panel and various cooking modes allow you to effortlessly prepare a wide range of recipes, such succulent meat and unforgettable family stews. The large capacity and non-stick pot make it perfect for feeding a crowd. With its high-quality construction and thoughtful design, the Ninja Foodi 9-in-1 Multi-Cooker OP500UK is undoubtedly the best overall choice for every kitchen. Read more..
- Versatile functionality
- Precise cooking
- Intuitive control panel
- Large capacity
- Glass lid
- Non-stick pot
- High-quality construction
- Thoughtful design
- Higher price point
- Bulky for smaller kitchens
Best buy
The Progress by WW Slow Cooker is the perfect appliance for anyone looking to simplify their cooking routine. With its sleek design and user-friendly features, it offers convenience and efficiency in the kitchen. This slow cooker has a generous capacity, allowing you to prepare easy one pot meals for the whole family. The programmable settings enable you to adjust the cooking time and temperature to suit your recipe. Additionally, its durable construction and easy-to-clean components make it a reliable and low-maintenance kitchen companion. Read more..
- Sleek design
- User-friendly features
- Large slow cooker
- Programmable settings
- Durable construction
- Easy to clean
- Reliable performance
- Limited availability
- No advanced features
Best on a budget
The DAEWOO SDA1363 1.5L Slow Cooker – Stainless Steel in stainless steel is an excellent budget-friendly option for those seeking a reliable and efficient slow cooker without breaking the bank. Despite its affordable price, this compact cooker offers impressive performance and versatility. With a 1.5L capacity, it is suitable for preparing meals for individuals or small households. The stainless steel construction ensures durability and easy cleaning. The simple temperature control allows you to adjust the heat according to your recipe requirements. If you’re on a tight budget and looking for a reliable slow cooker, the DAEWOO SDA1363 1.5L Slow Cooker is a great choice. Read more..
- Budget-friendly price
- Compact size
- Reliable performance
- Durable construction
- Easy to clean
- Suitable for small households
- Simple control
- Limited capacity
- Basic features
Best for convenience
The Crockpot Lift & Serve Digital Slow Cooker is a must-have appliance for anyone who enjoys the convenience of a good slow cooker. With its digital controls and programmable settings, it offers ease of use and precise cooking results. The unique lift and serve hinged lid design allows for convenient access to your food without the need for separate serving dishes. The generous capacity is perfect for preparing meals for large gatherings or batch cooking. The removable stoneware insert is dishwasher safe, making cleanup a breeze. The Crockpot Lift & Serve Digital Slow Cooker is a reliable and versatile addition to any kitchen. Read more..
- Digital controls
- Adjustable serving temperature
- Lift and serve hinged lid design
- Convenient access to food
- Removable stoneware insert
- Dishwasher safe
- Reliable and versatile
- Keeping food warm function
- Relatively large size
- Limited colour options
Best for easy cleaning
The Crockpot SCCPRC507B-060 Slow Cooker is a reliable and straightforward kitchen appliance that delivers excellent results. With its 4.7L capacity, it is suitable for preparing meals for small to medium-sized households. The simple dial control allows for easy temperature adjustment, giving you the flexibility to cook a variety of recipes. The removable stoneware insert is both oven and dishwasher safe, making it convenient to cook and clean up. While it may lack advanced features, the Crockpot SCCPRC507B-060 Slow Cooker is a dependable choice for those seeking a no-frills, efficient slow cooker. Read more..
- Reliable performance
- Suitable capacity
- Simple dial control
- Removable stoneware insert
- Oven and dishwasher safe
- Efficient cooking
- Limited features
- No programmable settings
Most versatile
The Sage Fast Slow Cooker Pro is the ultimate kitchen companion for those seeking versatility and precision in their cooking. With its innovative combination of pressure cook and slow cook functions, this appliance offers a wide range of cooking options to suit any recipe. The intuitive control panel and LCD screen make it easy to navigate and adjust settings. The large capacity allows for batch cooking or preparing meals for larger gatherings. The durable stainless steel construction ensures long-lasting performance, while the removable cooking bowl simplifies cleaning. The Sage Fast Slow Cooker Pro is a top-notch choice for anyone looking for a versatile and reliable cooking solution. Read more..
- Versatile pressure cooking
- Slow cooking functions
- Intuitive control panel
- Large capacity
- Durable stainless steel construction
- Removable cooking bowl
- Reliable cooking performance
- Easy to clean
- Higher price point
- Learning curve for beginners
Best design
The best slow cooker design is the Salter EK2842 Chalkboard Slow Cooker This is a delightful combination of functionality and creativity. Its standout feature is the chalkboard exterior, which allows you to write down recipes, cooking instructions, or fun messages directly on the cooker itself. The unique design adds a playful touch to your kitchen while also serving as a handy reminder. In terms of performance, this slow cooker does not disappoint. It offers a generous capacity, multiple heat settings, and a removable ceramic pot for easy serving and cleaning. The Salter EK2842 Chalkboard Slow Cooker is the perfect choice for those who appreciate a stylish and interactive kitchen appliance. Read more..
- Unique chalkboard design
- Personalised functions
- Generous capacity
- Multiple heat settings
- Removable ceramic pot
- Easy to serve and clean
- Limited availability
- May need frequent cleaning
Best mini slow cooker
Cookworks 1.5L Compact Slow Cooker
The Cookworks 1.5L Compact Slow Cooker is the perfect choice for those seeking a small and compact slow cooker. Despite its size, it doesn’t compromise on performance. The 1.5L capacity is suitable for individuals or small households, allowing for easy preparation of meals. The simple dial control ensures hassle-free operation, and the removable ceramic pot simplifies cleaning. With its affordable price point, the Cookworks 1.5L Compact Slow Cooker offers great value for money.
- Small and compact size
- Best slow cooker for one
- Easy to use dial control
- Removable ceramic pot
- Affordable price
- Limited capacity
- Basic features
Best easy-to-use
The GreenPan Slow Cooker CC005308-001 is the epitome of user-friendliness and simplicity. This easy-to-use slow cooker is designed to make your cooking experience effortless and enjoyable. With its intuitive control panel and clearly labeled buttons, you can effortlessly set the desired cooking time and temperature. The 5.5L capacity provides ample space for preparing meals for the whole family. The ceramic cooking pot ensures even heat distribution and is dishwasher safe for easy cleaning. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced cook, the GreenPan Slow Cooker CC005308-001 offers a hassle-free cooking experience. Read more..
- User-friendly and intuitive
- Simple settings
- Clearly labeled buttons
- Generous 5.5L capacity
- Even heat distribution
- Dishwasher safe
- Suitable for all skill levels
- Limited advanced features
- Relatively larger size
Best technology
Crock-Pot 5.6L TimeSelect Digital Slow Cooker CSC066
The Crock-Pot 5.6L TimeSelect Digital Slow Cooker CSC066 is the pinnacle of technological advancement in the world of slow cookers. With its innovative TimeSelect feature, you have precise control over the cooking duration, allowing you to set specific cooking times for your recipes. The digital display provides clear visibility and easy navigation through the various settings. The spacious 5.6L capacity is perfect for larger families or entertaining guests. The durable construction and high-quality materials ensure long-lasting performance. For those who appreciate advanced technology in their kitchen appliances, the Crock-Pot 5.6L TimeSelect Digital Slow Cooker CSC066 is the ultimate choice.
- Precise cooking duration
- Clear digital display
- Easy navigation of settings
- Spacious 5.6L capacity
- Durable construction
- High-quality materials
- Advanced technological features
- Higher price point
- Learning curve
The Top 10 Slow Cookers
Buying a slow cooker, what to look for?
When buying a slow cooker, there are several key factors to consider:
- Size: Consider the capacity based on the number of people you typically cook for.
- Programmable Settings: Look for options to adjust cooking time and temperature for versatility.
- Removable Insert: A removable insert makes cleaning easier.
- Material: Consider a ceramic insert for even heat distribution.
- Handles and Secure Lid: Ensure the cooker has sturdy handles and a secure lid for safe transportation.
- Additional Features: Check for a timer, keep-warm function, and digital display for added convenience.
Conclusion: What slow cooker to buy?
In conclusion, when it comes to choosing the perfect slow cooker, there are various options available to suit different needs and preferences. The Crock-Pot SCCPVL610-S Programmable Cook and Carry Oval Slow Cooker stands out for its versatility and convenient features. For those on a budget, the DAEWOO SDA1363 1.5L Slow Cooker offers reliable performance at an affordable price point.
The Ninja Foodi 9-in-1 Multi-Cooker OP500UK takes the crown for being the best overall choice with its impressive functionality. The Salter EK2842 Chalkboard Slow Cooker combines practicality and creativity with its unique design. Looking for something easy to use? The GreenPan Slow Cooker CC005308-001 is a fantastic option.
Lastly, for those who appreciate advanced technology, the Crock-Pot 5.6L TimeSelect Digital Slow Cooker CSC066 offers cutting-edge features. Consider your needs, preferences, and the pros and cons of each product to find the perfect slow cooker that will elevate your cooking experience. Happy slow cooking!
FAQ
Got more questions? We’ve got your answers!
Delicate foods like seafood or quick-cooking ingredients like pasta should not be cooked in a slow cooker
Compared to other methods of cooking, slow cookers are designed to be energy efficient, using a relatively small amount of electricity compared to other kitchen appliances.
The point of a slow cooker/crock pot is to provide a convenient and hands-off cooking method that allows for long, low-temperature cooking, resulting in tender and flavourful dishes.
Yes, you can cook raw meat and achieve a tender texture as long as it reaches the appropriate internal temperature.
The terms “slow cooker” and “crock pot” are often used interchangeably, and there is no significant difference between the two. Crock-Pot is a brand of slow cooker, though many people refer to any type of slow cooker as a crock pot.
A 3.5 litre slow cooker is highly convenient for 4 people, allowing for a variety of meals and portion sizes.
When choosing a slow cooker in the UK, consider factors such as size, programmable settings, and additional features like timers or keep-warm functions. Don’t forget to check out our suggestions from the leading brands above.
A small slow cooker is typically available in around 1.5 litres, which is suitable for cooking small portions or individual meals.
A slow cooker size of 2-3 litres has a generally adequate working capacity for preparing meals for 2 people, allowing for leftovers if desired.
A 1.5 litre slow cooker can be suitable for cooking small portions or individual meals, but may have limitations when it comes to larger slow cooker recipes or cuts of meat.
A slow cooker size of 1.5 to 2 litres is often recommended for 1 to 2 people, providing ample space for smaller portions.
Yes, slow cookers are available in various sizes, including smaller ones designed for individuals or small households.
The best slow cooker for 2 people depends on personal preferences and cooking needs, but a capacity of 2-4 litres is typically sufficient.
Smaller slow cookers tend to use less electricity compared to larger ones, but the exact energy usage depends on factors such as cooking time and temperature.
The smallest slow cooker size can range from around 1.5 to 2 litres, ideal for individual servings or small recipes.
1.5 litre mini slow cookers can provide enough space for cooking small to moderate-sized meals or dishes for one or two people.
The cooking time can vary depending on the recipe and the desired level of tenderness, but generally, it can take anywhere from 4 to 10 hours.
There is no difference between a crockpot and a slow cooker. “Crockpot” is a trademarked name that has become synonymous with slow cookers in general.
A crock pot/slow cooker can be used as a makeshift sous vide cooker by controlling the water temperature manually, although it may not provide the same precision and consistency as a dedicated sous vide machine.