Instant Pot designs each of its electric pressure cookers to be convenient, safe, and dependable. In September 2019 they released a new model, the Duo Evo Plus. With each model comes a different combination of variations that might change your thinking about which one you want. This new model has a lot of differences compared to the other Instant Pots available. Here’s a look at the Instant Pot Ultra vs Duo Evo Plus side by side.
What is the Instant Pot Electric Pressure Cooker?
An Instant Pot® is a smart multi-use Electric Pressure Cooker designed to be safe, convenient, and dependable. Safety is critical to any kitchen appliance. You’re able to cook your meals faster and using less energy by pressure cooking. If an energy-efficient kitchen is important to you, take a closer look at the Instant Pot.
Another bonus is you can cook hot meals without heating up your kitchen in the summer.
The Ultra and Duo Evo Plus are just two of the many pressure cooker models the company sells. And the Instant Pot Duo Evo Plus was one of several new models they added to the lineup in 2019.
Specifically, you may be considering the Instant Pot Duo Evo Plus vs Ultra and trying to figure out which one is better. Or maybe how they’re different if you already own an Ultra.
And one more note: this post contains affiliate links. This means I may receive a small commission if you buy through my link. You won’t pay any more if you use this link.
What is the difference between the Duo Evo Plus vs Ultra?
The Instant Pot Duo Evo Plus is the most innovative electric pressure cooker version they’ve released. Here’s a look at the key differences between the classic Instant Pot model and one of the models released in 2019.
The Duo Evo Plus inner liners are completely different than the other models
The new Duo Evo Plus has a different type of inner liner that is stovetop friendly and has built-in handles for easy lifting. These lines are not compatible with any of the other Instant Pot models, nor can the “standard” liners be used in the new model.
The liner is easier to lift with the handles, which is a great added feature! Grabbing the regular liner can be a challenge at times.
If you decide to buy a Duo Evo Plus, you’ll need to buy separate inner pots if you want to have spares.
You can check on Amazon for the availability of these special liners, or buy them directly from Instant Pot.
The Ultra technically has more smart programs but the Duo Evo Plus has 48 presets
With most of the Instant Pots, you can simply compare them side by side based on smart programs. So while it may look like one model has fewer cooking options, it actually has a lot more.
With the Duo Evo Plus, the presets add a whole new level of taking the guesswork out of cooking.
Adjust your cooking time based on Altitude with the Ultra
One feature you won’t find on other models is the ability to adjust your cooking time based on your altitude. The “altitude” adjustment eliminates the struggling with converting recipes to provide a more precise cooking time.
If you live at an elevation where you need to take that into account when cooking, take a closer look at the Ultra.
The control panels are slightly between the two models
The Ultra and Duo Evo Plus both have a turn dial to make selections. The Ultra makes all selections from the turn dial while the Duo Evo Plus also has buttons.
If you’re new to either of these models, don’t forget to hit the start button. Unlike other Instant Pot models that start a few seconds after pressing the program buttons, both of these models require you to press the start button to begin cooking.
The Duo Evo Plus has a completely different lid and sealing knob
In addition to a new style of inner liner, the Duo Evo Plus lid has a few interesting features. It has a controlled pressure release knob that you can flip to switch.
In addition to releasing pressure quicker with the QuickCool technology, it also manages the pressure steam better. If you’ve seen a quick-release on an electric pressure cooker and been a bit scared, check out this model instead.
The Ultra automatically sets pressure release valve to sealing with is a nice added feature.
The included accessories are different between the models
The Ultra comes with one sealing ring, the trivet, a measuring cup, and a few utensils. One of the things you’ll like want to buy if you decide to purchase this newer model is an additional sealing ring or two as they generally pick up cooking smells that can be difficult to get out.
With the Duo Evo Plus, it comes with two sealing rings and a trivet. So it comes with a few less accessories but the added sealing ring is one that really counts.
With a few key features, the Ultra will typically cost more
Compared to the Ultra model, the newer Duo Evo Plus actually costs a little bit less than the Duo Evo Plus. But always keep an eye out for flash sales and deals on the Ultra. You never know when you’ll be able to save money on purchase, even with the newer models.
The Ultra is available in a 3 quart mini size
The Duo is available in 3 sizes: 3 quart, 6 quart, and 8 quart, which gives you a lot of flexibility. If you have a smaller kitchen, or typically cook for one person, the 3 quart model might be a better option for you.
The Duo Evo Plus is available in 6 quart and 8 quart sizes. 6 quarts is the most popular size out of the models, and what most recipes are written for.
The Instant Pot Duo Evo Plus and Ultra compared side-by-side
To go deeper on each model, take a look at the appliances combined, smart programs included, and sizes available compared side-by-side. Aside from looking at a summary of the differences, looking at the key model aspect in detail will help you decide which is better for you.
The appliances combined in each model
You save counter and storage space because each Instant Pot combines multiple kitchen appliances into one. And you also save money by buying one appliance to cover multiple cooking methods.
Let’s take a look at the appliances combined in the Instant Pot Duo Evo Plus vs Ultra:
| Instant Pot Duo Evo Plus | Instant Pot Ultra | |
| Number of Appliances Combined | 10 | 10 |
| Pressure Cooker | Yes | Yes |
| Slow Cooker | Yes | Yes |
| Rice Cooker | Yes | Yes |
| Steamer | Yes | Yes |
| Sauté/Searing | Yes | Yes |
| Yogurt Maker | Yes | Yes |
| Sous Vide | Yes | |
| Warmer | Yes | Yes |
| Cake Maker | Yes | Yes |
| Stock Pot | Yes | |
| Sterilizer | Yes |
While both the Ultra and Duo Evo Plus combine the same number of appliances, they have a few differences between them.
Smart Programs included in the Ultra and Duo Evo Plus
Instant Pot created smart programs to help the home chef be able to cook with the press of a button. The smart programs were created based on extensive testing, control heat intensity, temperature, pressure, and duration.
Not all smart programs are included in each Instant Pot series. And the mini 3 quart models generally don’t have all the smart programs included the same series. For example, the 3 quart mini models usually have a few fewer programs than its larger 6- and 8-quart siblings have.
One thing to call out with the Duo Evo Plus is the number of included smart programs is a bit deceiving. The Duo Evo Plus has a large number of presets to further control time and temperature as part of the main smart programs. So while the chili, for example, isn’t a smart program, it is a preset option within both the Pressure Cook and Slow Cook functions. You can make chili with and without pressure.
| Instant Pot Duo Evo Plus | Instant Pot Ultra | |
| Number of Smart Programs | 9 | 16 |
| Soup/Broth | Yes | |
| Meat/Stew | Yes | |
| Bean/Chili | Yes | |
| Sauté | Yes | Yes |
| Rice | Yes | Yes |
| Multigrain | Yes* | |
| Porridge | Yes | |
| Yogurt | Yes | Yes |
| Pressure Cook | Yes | Yes |
| Steam | Yes | Yes |
| Keep Warm | Yes | Yes |
| Slow Cook | Yes | Yes |
| Pasteurize** | Yes | Yes |
| Bake* | Yes | |
| Cake* | Yes | |
| Sous Vide | Yes | |
| Ultra | Yes | |
| Egg | Yes |
* These programs (Cake and Multigrain) may not be available in the 3-quart versions of this Instant Pot.
** Pasteurize is a program that’s included in the Yogurt Smart Program
While the Mini Ultra does not have the Cake Setting, don’t worry as you can still make cakes using the pressure cook setting and adjusting the time.
Looking at the model sizes side-by-side, the models larger than the 3 quart have two additional smart programs: multigrain and poultry.
Don’t forget the accessories! Regardless of which Instant Pot you buy, don’t forget the accessories. Most of the Instant Pot Duo Evo Plus accessories will also work for the Ultra, except for the inner liner. Make sure you buy the right one for your Instant Pot Model.
Which sizes the Duo Evo Plus and Ultra available in?
Many Instant Pot models are available in the core three sizes: 3 quart, 6 quart, and 8 quart. Currently, the Duo Evo Plus is available in 2 sizes: 6 quarts and 8 Quart. If you’re looking for the mini 3 quart model, take a closer look at the Ultra.
| Instant Pot Duo Evo Plus | Instant Pot Ultra | |
| 3 Quarts | Yes | |
| 6 Quarts | Yes | Yes |
| 8 Quarts | Yes | Yes |
If you’re looking for an Instant Pot larger than 8 quarts, the Duo Nova 10 quart might be an option for you.
What are your thoughts on the Instant Pot Duo Evo Plus vs Ultra?
Whenever you buy a new Instant Pot you need to decide which features and size make the most sense for your needs. If you already have an Ultra, there are a few interesting features in the new Duo Evo Plus that could make it an attractive addition to your kitchen.
Given the versatility of the Instant Pot, having more than one in your kitchen wouldn’t be unusual. Or if you’re looking to try a different size, switching to a new model gives you the best of both worlds.
As part of your research, what are you looking for in an Instant Pot Ultra vs Duo Evo Plus?
Learn more about the Instant Pot Models
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