The Best 4-Quart Slow Cooker in 2025 [Top Picks by Editors]

1. Hamilton Beach 4-Quart Programmable Slow Cooker

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Pros:

• Acurrate thermostat
• Anti-splashing design 
• Automatic pressure release
• Multiple safety functions

Cons:

• The dial mechanism is not very precise

2. Hamilton Beach 4-Quart 33140V

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Pros:

• It comes with a roasting rack
• Perfect for slow-cooking
• Safe steam
• Can bring out the best flavor in any ingredient

Cons:

• The lid is not air-tight

3. Crock-Pot Red SCV401-TR 4-Quart Manual Slow

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Pros:

• Reasonable price
• Twenty options to consider
• Versatile presets
• Durable and secure knob
• It comes from a trusted Korean brand

Cons:

• The brim can trap dirt and dust 

4. Instant Pot Pro 10-in-1 Pressure Cooker Slow Cooker

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Pros:

• Build to last
• Removeable lid 
• Food-grade 304 stainless steel
• Available with two dishes at the same time

Cons:

• High price

5. Cuisinart MSC-400 3-In-1 Cook Central 4-Quart Multi-Cooker

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Pros:

• Solid stainless steel
• Low price
• Dishwasher safe
• Non-stick coat

Cons:

• Rice sticks to the bottom

6. Crock-Pot 4-Quart Smart-Pot Programmable Slow Cooker

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Pros:

• Simple digital panel
• Nonstick inner pot
• Automatically switches modes
• Multi cooker

Cons:

• A slightly shorter cord

There are several things you should care for when getting a slow cooker of your own. Let’s see what they are.  

Cleaning

Almost all slow cookers contain two main components: the outer section and the interior insert. To make the cleaning easier, you should go for one with a removable interior insert. You can wash it by hand or put it into the dishwasher. Remember to refer to the manual whether it is dishwasher-safe or not.

For the outer section, the cleanup is quite simple. Use a soapy cloth to wipe all the dust, but make sure to unplug it. 

Settings

There are two main kinds of slow cookers: ones with simple, straightforward settings and the others with modern, smart functions. Choosing which kind depends on your preference, and also your budget.

Minimum settings such as high, low, and warm allow users to change the heat and keep food warm for a certain amount of time. It is user-friendly and easy for all people to get used to.

On the contrary, people who are in love with high technology can go for one with smart functions. These smart functionalities may include browning or Wifi connectivity. With the former function, you will not need to use an extra pan or pot to sear the meat before adding it to the cooker. It will lessen your cleanup afterward.

Good quality

Similar to other kitchen appliances, a slow cooker is something you need to invest money in. There is no need to buy a too costly one. A reasonably-priced cooker from a prestigious brand can give you reliability. 

Be cautious of the material or the way it is built, because it will affect the quality of your cooker. Using a slow cooker means you will use it continuously for several hours, and the frequency of use might be high if you are cooking soups or porridge for your babies frequently. 

Therefore, you should pay attention to its quality if you do not want to send it to the repair center after some time of use.

Footprint

You should check if the space available for your slow cooker is big or small. Then you can choose a slow cooker with suitable dimensions. 

Shape

If you are cooking whole chickens or roasts frequently, an oval-shaped cooker is ideal. However, if your purpose is just making soups, porridges, and stews, the shape of the cooker doesn’t necessarily matter.

Can I keep the food in a slow cooker overnight?

Yes, you can, and the next morning, you should change into the “Keep warm” setting. It helps you save time preparing for breakfast or brunches.

Note that you cannot keep food in a warm setting all night.

What temperatures are low and high?

Generally, the low temperature is around 200 degrees Fahrenheit. Meanwhile, the high temperature is approximately 300 degrees. 

Can I put frozen food into a slow cooker?

If the food you say means meat, you shouldn’t do that. Before cooking meat, you ought to take it out of the refrigerator beforehand so that it will thaw gradually. Putting frozen meat without thawing it will extend the cooking time.

If you are looking for a kitchen appliance that helps you cook food safely while you are not at home, the best 4-quart slow cooker is a perfect choice.

Many people even name it a “set-and-forget” device because all you need to do is plug it in, press a few buttons and wait for some time before the dish is ready.