CHEF iQ Smart Pressure Cooker Review (2026): Smart, Safe, and Surprisingly Easy
By Ben Carter
9.1
Consumer's Best Score
Consumers Best Verdict: CHEF iQ Smart Pressure Cooker Highlights
In 2026, the chef iq smart pressure cooker still stands out for smart touches that matter in real life. You get app-based step‑by‑step cooking, precise weighing right in the pot, multiple pressure release modes, and firmware updates that keep it sharp. Performance is strong across pressure, slow cook, sauté, steam, and even sous vide. Add in a helpful app and a robust safety system, and you’ve got a dependable, modern multicooker that’s genuinely beginner‑friendly.
Look, after cooking everything from weeknight chili to Sunday risotto, my takeaway is simple: the CHEF iQ Smart Pressure Cooker makes home cooking feel a lot less stressful—and a lot more consistent. The built‑in scale and guided recipes mean you’re not guessing. Auto steam release keeps things calm, even when you’re multitasking. It’s not the cheapest multicooker, sure, but the brains and polish justify the price. For me, it’s the rare kitchen gadget that actually earns its counter space.
In-Depth Look: CHEF iQ Smart Pressure Cooker Features & Considerations
Core Features & Consumer Benefits
Here’s where the CHEF iQ Smart Pressure Cooker pulls ahead—and why those details actually help at dinnertime.
Built‑in smart scale
Weigh ingredients directly in the pot, which cuts down measuring cups and improves consistency—great for baking‑style precision and one‑pot meals.
Guided cooking via app
Step‑by‑step recipes (with auto time/temp) take the nerves out of pressure cooking. If you’re new, it’s like having a coach on the counter.
Auto steam release options
Choose quick, pulse, or natural release. It’s safer, quieter, and—bonus—you don’t have to hover over the vent.
Versatile modes that actually perform
Pressure cook, sauté/sear, slow cook, steam, and sous vide. The sear is hot enough to develop color; pressure results are tender and fast.
Smart connectivity & updates
Wi‑Fi/Bluetooth setup, remote monitoring, and over‑the‑air improvements keep the experience fresh without buying a new machine.
Important Considerations & Potential Downsides
- App reliance and pairing quirks
Initial setup needs stable Wi‑Fi/Bluetooth, and occasional reconnects can be a thing—rare, but it happens.
- Learning curve
There are lots of modes and features. You’ll cruise after a few cooks, but day one can feel feature‑heavy.
- Counter footprint
The 6‑quart body is sizable and not ultra‑light. Measure your cabinet height if you plan to store it away.
- Nonstick pot care
The coating keeps cleanup easy, but it does ask for silicone/wood utensils and gentle sponges to stay pristine.
Who Is the CHEF iQ Smart Pressure Cooker Best For?
Busy home cooks
Set‑and‑forget meals with auto release and notifications make weeknights smoother.
Beginners to pressure cooking
Guided recipes and the built‑in scale remove guesswork right from the start.
Meal preppers
Batch beans, grains, broths, and proteins fast—with consistent results you can rely on.
Tech‑friendly foodies
If you love precise control and app updates, this scratches the itch.
Small families and couples
The 6‑quart size hits a sweet spot—feeds 2–5 without hogging the whole kitchen.
Who Might Want to Explore Other Options?
- Minimalists who avoid apps
If you want a purely manual cooker, a simpler, cheaper pressure cooker may suit you better.
- Ultra‑budget shoppers
You can find basic multicookers for less—though you’ll give up smart features.
- Large households or frequent entertainers
If you routinely cook for 6+ people, consider an 8‑quart model.
- Nonstick‑averse users
Prefer stainless steel pots? Look for models with stainless inner pots out of the box.
