If you’re new to cooking and finally getting the hang of all the types of appliances, this stovetop pressure cooker vs. electric pressure cooker guide will be perfect for you.
Pressure cookers have a bad reputation because of stories of them blowing up.
But that is far worse than reality.
Yes, pressure cookers can explode if not used properly.
But with the electric pressure cookers as an option, having multiple safety features, pressure building up to unsafe levels is almost eliminated.
So does that mean we should opt for electric pressure cookers? Not exactly. Stovetop pressure cookers have their own pros.
To settle this debate, read this comparison guide and find out which pressure cooker is the better option for you.
In this article I will discuss:
Stovetop Pressure Cookers
Stovetop pressure cookers are extremely versatile cooking appliances.
Because they have a separate lid that is used to seal the pot and build up pressure, they can also be used as regular cooking pots, eliminating the need to buy more pots than necessary.
They also come in a variety of sizes.
Pros
- They can heat up faster as they use a direct source of heating
- Stovetop pressure cookers can build up and handle higher pressure
- These pressure cookers are easy to store
Cons
- Stovetop pressure cookers don’t have many safety features
Electric Pressure Cookers
Electric pressure cookers are the more advanced and more secure version of stovetop pressure cookers.
It’s perfect for people who have their doubts about the more traditional pressure cookers.
They come with a number of built-in safety features like backup vents, pressure regulators and a lid-locking mechanism.
They also produce less steam and make less noise.
Pros
- They are manufactured using advanced machining
- Electric pressure cookers are safer to use
- These pressure cookers have different cooking modes
Cons
- They take longer to heat up which leads to increased cooking times
Stovetop Pressure Cookers vs. Electric Pressure Cookers: Major Differences
A pressure cooker is definitely an appliance you should have in your kitchen. But before you decide on which one to buy, it’s best to look at these stovetop vs. electric pressure cooker differences first.
Cooking Time
If faster cooking times is what you have in mind when browsing for a pressure cooker, I suggest going for a stovetop pressure cooker.
Why?
Because stovetop pressure cookers use direct heat, they can reach their maximum pressure and desired temperature in approximately 11 minutes.
In comparison, electric pressure cookers use their own heating element and take approximately 14 minutes.
These times vary depending on what you’re cooking, but the fact remains that electric pressure cookers take longer to reach their maximum pressure and desired temperature and they take longer to cool down as well.
Cooking Pressure
Another major difference between stovetop and electric pressure cookers is their pressure range.
Stovetop pressure cookers come in two pressure settings, low (6-8 psi) and high (12-15 psi). On the other hand, electric pressure cookers have multiple pressure options and regulators, which means you have control over your cooking and can change the pressure depending on what you’re cooking.
But they do have limitations.
Electric pressure cookers can work around 6-13 psi, which means longer cooking times.
So stovetop vs. electric pressure cooker in terms of pressure range?
Stovetop pressure cookers are better as they can handle higher pressures and help you quickly prepare meals.
Durability
Nobody wants to buy a kitchen appliance that won’t last, so durability is an important factor when it comes to pressure cookers.
Stovetop pressure cookers are made from mostly stainless steel and aluminum, making them very durable.
Similarly, newer electric pressure cookers are also manufactured using stainless steel.
On the other hand, though, their other parts like valves, thermal resistant outer layers and non-stick coatings can be easily damaged and would be considerably less durable.
So stovetop vs. electric pressure cooker in terms of durability?
Stovetop pressure cookers wins hands down.
Timers and Features
This is where electric pressure cookers shine and why most people prefer convenience over durability.
Electric pressure cookers come with multiple features like timers and smart scheduling.
Timers provide ease of mind and prevent your food from being overcooked.
With smart scheduling, you can delay the cooking time, allowing you to perform multiple tasks at once.
On the other hand, stovetop pressure cookers come with no timers or special features.
Stovetop pressure cooker vs. electric pressure cooker in terms of features? Electric pressure cookers wins this one by a mile.
Heat Regulation
Heat regulation is extremely tricky when you’re using a stovetop pressure cooker.
If you don’t have the time to sit around the kitchen all day, go for electric pressure cookers.
Why?
Because their heat regulation is completely automated and it will automatically adjust the heat according to your desired settings.
On the other hand, with the stovetop pressure cookers, you need to maintain constant heating levels at the beginning to prevent overcooking or building up lower pressure and this can take up to 15 minutes.
Stovetop pressure cooker vs. electric pressure cooker in terms of heat regulation?
Electric pressure cookers have the upper hand in this regard.
Price
This stovetop vs. electric pressure cooker comparison won’t be complete if I don’t include price as well.
Generally, stovetop pressure cookers are higher in cost than electric ones.
You can find a high-quality stovetop pressure cooker for $250, although you can buy budget models for as low as $80.
On the other hand, you can buy a top-quality electric pressure cooker for less than $150.
Stovetop pressure cooker vs. electric pressure cooker in terms of affordability?
Electric pressure cookers are in general more affordable than their stovetop counterparts.
Storage
When it comes to storage, stovetop pressure cookers take the lead.
They come in various sizes and can be stored with other pots and pans without easily being damaged.
In comparison, electric pressure cookers are bulky, require more counter-space and must be placed near an electrical outlet.
But if counter-space isn’t an issue, electric pressure cookers don’t only look good, but they also eliminate the need for certain other appliances as they perform multiple tasks.
Stovetop pressure cooker vs. electric pressure cooker in terms of storage space and bulkiness?
Well it’s a bit of tie with each having it’s own pros and cons.
Final Thoughts
So which pressure cooker came out on top in the showdown of stovetop pressure cookers vs. electric pressure cookers?
You have probably already made up you mind, but if that isn’t the case, let’s summarise.
If you prefer speed and durability, I recommend you opt for a stovetop pressure cooker.
But if you prefer convenience, advanced features, extra safety features and versatility, you should buy an electric pressure cooker.
If you’ve decided to buy a pressure cooker, have a look at these pressure cookers I recommend!