Le Creuset Braiser vs Crock-Pot Artisan
Based on tests by America's Test Kitchen (Nov 2025). How we score
Save $381Depends. The Crock-Pot Artisan for most people.
Buy the Le Creuset Braiser if you want enamel that resists chips and stains.
From 1 tester: America's Test Kitchen
From 1 tester: America's Test Kitchen
Amazon prices as of Sep 30, 2:51 AM EDT (details)
What the testers found
America's Test Kitchen's Best Buy 5-quart braiser, with the same full marks for performance as the Le Creuset: "this inexpensive model performed well, cooking meatballs, short ribs, and green beans perfectly." Its light interior makes browning easy to watch, but its straight walls are a touch harder to reach over. Durability scored 2 of 3 against the Le Creuset's 3: "The white enamel stained a bit after we cooked short ribs in it," and "The enamel also chipped slightly when we clapped the lid on the base."
| Criterion | Le Creuset Braiser | Crock-Pot Artisan |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 3/3 | 3/3 |
| Durability | 3/3 | 2/3 |
| Ease of use | 3/3 | 2.5/3 |
From America's Test Kitchen: The Best Braisers (updated Nov. 19, 2025)
Specs side by side
| Spec | Le Creuset Braiser | Crock-Pot Artisan |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $449.95 | $68.63 |
| Cost per year | — | — |
| Warranty | — | — |
| Cooking surface | 10.5 in (America's Test Kitchen) | 10.5 in (America's Test Kitchen) |
| Wall height | 2.75 in (America's Test Kitchen) | 3 in (America's Test Kitchen) |
| Weight | 15 lb 5 oz (America's Test Kitchen) | 15 lb 2.5 oz (America's Test Kitchen) |
| Interior | Light enamel | Light enamel |
Sources: America's Test Kitchen: The Best Braisers (updated Nov. 19, 2025), Manufacturer specs via Amazon listing
