Instant Pot Duo Plus 8QT vs Instant Pot Duo 8QT
By Chris Weller ·Updated June 2026 ·Affiliate disclosure
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Duo Plus 8QT
Instant Pot Duo Plus 8QT Multi-Use Pressure Cooker
Wins 5 specs
Duo 8QT
Instant Pot Duo 8QT Multi-Use Pressure Cooker
Wins 0 specs
Quick Verdict
Duo Plus 8QT adds 9-in-1 features and quieter steam release; Duo 8QT keeps the simpler 7-in-1 base.
- Best 8 Qt Feature Set Duo Plus 8QT
- Best Simple Large Duo Duo 8QT
- Best Steam Release Duo Plus 8QT
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Full Spec Comparison
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| Spec | Duo Plus 8QT | Duo 8QT |
|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 8 qt / 7.6 L | 8 qt / 7.6 L |
| Cooking Functions | 9-in-1 | 7-in-1 |
| Smart Programs | 25 customizable programs | 13-14 by version |
| Wattage | 1200 W | 1200 W |
| Pressure Levels | Low and high pressure | Low and high pressure |
| Sous Vide | Yes | No |
| Steam Release | WhisperQuiet steam release | Manual steam release handle |
| Inner Pot | Stainless steel, anti-spin | Stainless steel |
| Dimensions | 14.6 x 14.6 x 14.0 in | 14.8 x 13.3 x 14.2 in |
| Weight | 15.9 lb | 15.79 lb |
| Warranty | 1 year limited | 1 year limited |
Want the wider view? See all the pressure cookers we have compared in one spec table, or the pressure cookers statistics (medians, ranges, feature adoption).
Analysis
The Instant Pot Duo Plus 8QT and Duo 8QT are both large-capacity pressure cookers with 8 qt pots and 1200 W heating. The Plus model is not about more capacity; it is about adding newer controls and extra cooking functions to the same large-family size.
Duo Plus 8QT wins the feature comparison. It adds 9-in-1 cooking, sous vide, WhisperQuiet steam release, an anti-spin stainless steel pot, and 25 customizable programs. Those upgrades matter if you want an 8 qt cooker that behaves more like a full multi-cooker.
The Duo 8QT makes the simpler argument. It keeps the same 8 qt capacity, the same 1200 W power class, and low and high pressure without adding extra menus. It is easier to understand if you mainly pressure cook beans, meat, broth, soups, and stews.
If you use sous vide, rely on preset programs, or dislike loud steam venting, Duo Plus 8QT is the better long-term model. If you want a large Instant Pot for batch pressure cooking and do not need modern release hardware, the Duo 8QT covers the core job.
Choose Duo Plus 8QT for the broader function set and quieter release. Choose Duo 8QT for simpler controls and the same 8 qt pressure-cooking foundation.
Who Should Buy Which
Instant Pot Duo Plus 8QT Multi-Use Pressure Cooker
Duo Plus 8QT adds 9-in-1 cooking, sous vide, WhisperQuiet steam release, and 25 customizable programs. It is the stronger pick when you want the large pot plus modern controls.
Instant Pot Duo 8QT Multi-Use Pressure Cooker
The Duo 8QT keeps 8 qt capacity and 1200 W power in the simpler 7-in-1 layout. Pick it if pressure cooking and slow cooking matter more than extra modes.
Instant Pot Duo Plus 8QT Multi-Use Pressure Cooker
The Duo Plus WhisperQuiet steam release is the clearest usability upgrade over the standard Duo. It also moves the release control away from the steam path.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Duo Plus 8QT have that the Duo 8QT doesn’t?
The Duo Plus 8QT adds 9-in-1 cooking, sous vide, WhisperQuiet steam release, and an anti-spin stainless steel pot that the Duo 8QT lacks. It also lists 25 customizable programs versus 13 to 14 on the Duo 8QT. Both share the same 8 qt capacity and 1200 W power.
Is the Duo 8QT loud when releasing steam?
The Duo 8QT uses a manual steam release handle rather than the WhisperQuiet steam release found on the Duo Plus 8QT. If quieter venting matters, the Duo Plus is the better pick since its release hardware is built specifically to reduce noise. Both cookers still vent the same 8 qt capacity.
Do the Duo Plus 8QT and Duo 8QT hold the same amount of food?
Yes, both cookers hold 8 qt / 7.6 L and run at 1200 W, so capacity and power aren’t the deciding factor. The Duo Plus 8QT instead separates itself through 9-in-1 cooking, sous vide, and a quieter, anti-spin pot design. Choose based on those extra functions rather than size.
Does the Duo 8QT have an anti-spin inner pot?
No, the Duo 8QT uses a standard stainless steel inner pot without anti-spin construction, while the Duo Plus 8QT adds an anti-spin stainless steel pot. The anti-spin design keeps the pot seated while sauteing or stirring. It’s one of several usability upgrades the Plus model includes.
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