Is the All-Clad Slow Cooker Worth It?
Based on tests by America's Test Kitchen (Nov 2025). How we score
Save $160Depends. Hamilton Beach for most people.
Amazon prices as of Sep 29, 9:38 PM EDT (details)
Why
America's Test Kitchen's favorite Dutch oven slow cooker made tender pot roast and chicken tikka masala, and "We loved that we could sauté aromatics right in the pot before transitioning to slow cooking." The pot doubles as a stovetop Dutch oven, so ATK says "if you're shopping for both a Dutch oven and a slow cooker (and don't mind a smaller pot), this model may be a good choice for you." If you just want a slow cooker, ATK's favorite traditional model, the Hamilton Beach Temp Tracker, rated as well or better and costs much less.
Cheaper alternatives, scored against the All-Clad
Temp Tracker 6-Quart Slow Cooker
From 1 tester: America's Test Kitchen
From 1 tester: America's Test Kitchen
America's Test Kitchen's favorite traditional slow cooker: "Every dish we made in this slow cooker emerged deeply flavorful and perfectly cooked," and "an attached temperature probe let us know exactly when our food was done." The lid latches for transport. It has no brown/sauté setting, and the crock isn't a Dutch oven. One wear note from ATK: "painted labels partly wore off two control buttons; this did not affect performance." Neither listing states a warranty.
| Criterion | All-Clad | Hamilton Beach |
|---|---|---|
| Cleanup | 2.5/3 | 2.5/3 |
| Cooking | 3/3 | 3/3 |
| Ease of use | 2.5/3 | 3/3 |
From America's Test Kitchen: The Best Slow Cookers (updated Nov. 5, 2025)
Sources: America's Test Kitchen: The Best Slow Cookers (updated Nov. 5, 2025)
Common questions
Can you use the All-Clad slow cooker pot on the stove?
Yes. Its enameled cast-iron crock works as a stand-alone Dutch oven, and America's Test Kitchen found it performed well that way. The rim isn't enameled, so dry it well and occasionally oil it to prevent rust.
All-Clad slow cooker or Hamilton Beach Temp Tracker?
America's Test Kitchen picked both: the Hamilton Beach as its favorite traditional slow cooker and the All-Clad as its favorite Dutch oven slow cooker. The Hamilton Beach has a temperature probe and a locking lid; the All-Clad lets you sear in the pot and use it on the stove.
Sources: America's Test Kitchen: The Best Slow Cookers (updated Nov. 5, 2025), Manufacturer specs via Amazon listing
