The Instant Pot has become a household name over the years, winning the hearts of millions with its versatile functionality and convenience. While the company has numerous successful models under its belt, the latest Instant Pot Max has fallen short in meeting the expectations of its fans. In this review, we’ll dissect the reasons why this particular model left users feeling let down.

Appearance and Design:

On the exterior, the Instant Pot Max looks like an upgraded version of older Instant Pot models. The stainless steel finish and slick touch display give it an aesthetically pleasing appearance. However, it’s what’s beneath the surface that matters.

Capacity:

One critical factor that sets apart different Instant Pot models is their capacity. Many fans were expecting a bigger cooking capacity from the Instant Pot Max in comparison to previous offerings. Unfortunately, this model only offers a 6-quart cooking capacity, just like most other older models. This similarity in size leaves users wanting more.

Pressure Settings:

An essential selling point of Instant Pots is their ability to cook meals at high pressure quickly. The Max model boasts 15 psi pressure, which is higher than its predecessors; however, this increased pressure ultimately fails to make a difference to cooking times or meal qualities.

The Steam Release Valve:

A notable issue with this model is its steam release valve. Many users found it challenging to deal with and more finicky when compared to previous designs. The steam release valve on the Instant Pot Max requires manual handling (with a provided device), but it’s less user-friendly than models that allow you to control steam from a distance.

Feature Complications:

While previous models of Instant Pots are known for their simplicity and ease of use, the Instant Pot Max attempts to pack in too many features and customizations—ultimately making it less user-friendly. The complicated interface can be perplexing for first-time users and adds to the learning curve.

Price:

The Instant Pot Max is priced significantly higher than other models, with little to show for as far as improvements or innovation. Many users aren’t convinced that the few additional features and
enhancements warrant a higher price tag.

Conclusion:

As seen, the Instant Pot Max leaves much to be desired. Due to limited capacity, an unwieldy steam release valve, and an unnecessarily complex interface, loyal fans of Instant Pot may find this model disappointing. Considering the higher price tag compared to older models with similar features and better user-friendliness, the Instant Pot Max is not highly recommended to existing or prospective fans of the famous pressure cooker.