The best pressure cooker
We have chosen the Tefal Secure 5 Neo pressure cooker as the best in the comparison, since it allows the pressure to be adjusted in three levels and incorporates five safety systems.
In contrast to the , the pressure cookers They help save time and energy in the kitchen. Likewise, its operation allows the vitamins and properties of food to be better preserved, resulting in healthier and more flavorful dishes. The best thing is that they are ideal for cooking all kinds of ingredients: vegetables, meats, fish, legumes and more. That is why in EL PAÍS Showcase we have tried and bought four pressure cookers stainless steel, in order to find the most suitable one for you.
| Features | Tefal | Amazon Basics | Stomach fesa | Monix |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ability | 6 L | 6 L | 6 L | 6 L |
| Material | Stainless steel | Stainless steel | Stainless steel | Stainless steel |
| Compatible kitchens | All | All | All | All |
| Pressure levels | 3 | 2 | 1 | 1 |
What pressure cookers have we chosen and how have we tested them?
The best pressure cookers on the market are those made of stainless steel, which is why it has been the only material we have considered for the models selected in this comparison. What does change, in addition to the available sizes, is the adjustment capacity they allow, which is why we have tested designs with different possibilities in this section. With these considerations in mind, the brands we have chosen are: Tefal, Amazon Basics, Magefesa y Monix.
Accordingly, to test these pressure cookers we have cooked legumes and meat in each of them to evaluate their results. In doing so, we have timed, first, the time it took to reach the proper cooking pressure and then how long it took to cook the food. We have also checked the operation of its closing and opening systems, in order to evaluate the safety of each model.
Which pressure cooker was the winner?
Thanks to the three adjustable pressure levels of the Tefal Secure 5 Neo pressure cooker, I have been able to cook almost any food during testing. This, plus its pressure control system and its five safety mechanisms, have made it my favorite in the comparison.
Does he cook well?
I liked the Tefal Secure 5 Neo pressure cooker for its stainless steel construction and its six-liter capacity. But beyond its design, I think the best thing is that it incorporates excess steam control. This system allows the valve to release steam when it has reached its maximum pressure, in order to avoid accidents during cooking. So, in addition to being safe, it also prevents leaks or splashes.
In this sense, I found it positive that it includes a selector built into the handle with three different pressure levels. These modes allow you to cook at different temperature ranges when necessary: high pressure for meat and fish, and low pressure for vegetables, rice or legumes. During the tests, all the results have been very convincing.
Of course, the pot is suitable for all types of cookers, including induction. In addition, it distributes heat with the same efficiency on any surface. I also found it convenient that it can be washed in the dishwasher, so cleaning is much easier. Either way, even if washed by hand, food does not stick to the pot, making it easy to remove.
Its easy opening and closing system stands out, as well as its five security systems, which provide an airtight closure and seal its interior completely.
Why do we recommend it?
The best:
- Pressure control system.
- Five security systems.
- Three pressure levels for different recipes.
- Suitable for all types of kitchens.
- It can be washed in the dishwasher.
To improve:
- I have not found negative aspects.
Other alternatives to the best pressure cooker
Amazon Basics Stainless Steel Pressure Cooker
Although it only has two pressure levels—one less than the winning model—the results of the Amazon Basics pressure cooker have also been excellent. On the other hand, it also has the disadvantage that it does not have a pressure indicator during cooking.
Does he cook well?
With the Amazon Basics pressure cooker I have been able to cook delicious and nutritious meals in a short time. It has two different pressure levels to be able to prepare dishes with two types of cooking (slow and fast). It is suitable for all types of heat sources, including induction and can be cleaned in the dishwasher, except for the lid.
The pot is available in two capacities, four and six liters, and It has a built-in valve that allows know when you can open the lid, once all the pressure has been released. I especially liked the design of its handles, since they are securely connected, and that it includes a steamer.
This model has a water level indicator to be able to fill the pot properly depending on what needs to be prepared. This guarantees more precise and safe food preparation. The only thing I have missed is an indicator of the exact pressure level during cooking, since the steam output is the only signal that can be taken as a reference.
Why do we recommend it?
The best:
- Two pressure levels.
- Suitable for all types of cuisine.
- A valve signals when the pot can be opened.
- Water level indicators.
To improve:
- There is nothing to indicate the pressure level during cooking.
Magefesa Star Straight traditional pressure cooker
If in the two previous models I had highlighted their adjustable pressure levels, in the Magefesa Star Recta pressure cooker it is what I miss the most. Even so, the results are satisfactory, as long as the cooking times are well controlled.
Does he cook well?
The lack of different pressure levels is the only thing that puts me off with the Magefesa Star Recta pressure cooker. This is, without a doubt, its main disadvantage compared to the rest of the models in the comparison, since it does not allow the pressure to be adjusted according to the type of food being cooked, so you have to be much more aware of the time.
Beyond that, the results I have achieved with this pot have been satisfactory. In all tests, the food has been tender and well cooked. In addition, the valve is clear and intuitive and incorporates three safety systems to avoid accidents: rotating valve, depressor valve and closing bar.
The pot is compatible with all types of stoves, but I must say that I have noticed that it behaves better in distributing heat when used on ceramic or induction hobs. Finally, one of its best features is that it is available in many sizes: four, six, ten, twelve and fourteen liters.
Why do we recommend it?
The best:
- Three security systems.
- Compatible with all types of kitchens.
- Five different measurements.
To improve:
- It does not have different pressure levels.
- Works best on induction and glass-ceramic cooktops.
Monix Classica traditional pressure cooker
The only thing to consider about the Monix Classica pressure cooker is that it works really well on induction and ceramic hobs. In both cases, their closing systems seemed very secure to me, but they lack pressure level adjustment.
Does he cook well?
The best thing about the Monix Classica pressure cooker is that it incorporates a bridge-shaped closure and has a capacity of four, six or eight liters. However, it lacks a pressure level adjustment to cook different ingredients at their proper point, so it only has its pressure valve to release the steam in a controlled manner.
Another positive aspect of this pot is that it can be used in all types of kitchens. However, I have noticed that it distributes heat best on induction and ceramic hobs, so it is more recommended for users with these kitchens. Either way, their closure systems are secure and the materials have not lost their shape with use.
Why do we recommend it?
The best:
- It has three pressure levels.
- It can be used in all types of kitchens.
- Good security systems.
To improve:
- Works best on induction and glass-ceramic cooktops.
Pressure Cooker FAQs
What is the difference between a pressure cooker and a pressure cooker?
The difference between pressure cooker and pressure cooker is mainly terminological and evolutionary. Pressure cooker is the generic term that describes any container that cooks food under high pressure to reduce cooking time. Meanwhile, the term “pressure cooker” was popularized by a commercial brand. Modern pots, often known as super-fast pots, are an evolution of the original design. These new utensils operate at higher pressure and have more advanced safety systems, allowing food to be cooked much faster than older models. In short, both names refer to the same type of cooking appliance.
How long should you cook in a pressure cooker?
Cooking time in a pressure cooker is drastically reduced, which represents a huge saving in time and energy. The exact duration depends on the food and the container model. In general, cooking times are cut by 50% or up to 70% compared to traditional preparation. For example, some legumes that require an hour in the pot only need 15 or 20 minutes in this appliance. The time always starts counting once the cooker valve reaches maximum pressure. Either way, we recommend consulting your model’s chart for accurate times.
What foods should not be cooked in a pressure cooker?
There are certain foods that should not be cooked in a pressure cooker. For example, pasta, couscous or very quick-cooking cereals are not suitable, as they tend to overcook and disintegrate. Another group to avoid includes foods that produce a lot of foam or thicken excessively, such as oatmeal, applesauce or some very thick sauces. These ingredients sometimes clog the steam release valve, compromising the safety of the equipment. The ideal is to always prepare these foods with a conventional cooking method.
[Recuerda que si eres usuario de Amazon Prime, todas las compras tienen gastos de envío gratuitos. Amazon ofrece un período de prueba gratuito y sin compromiso durante 30 días.]
*All purchase prices included in this article are current as of December 9, 2025.
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