Best Programmable Slow Cooker with Delay Start of 2023

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A slow cooker is a great way to have a home-cooked meal waiting for you when you get home from work. The Best Programmable Slow Cooker with Delay Start will help make sure your food is ready at the perfect time. Unfortunately, most slow cookers on the market do not come with this feature. Those that do tend to be quite expensive and complicated for what they offer. We’ve taken the time to review some of these Best Programmable Slow Cookers with Delay Start so that you can find one right for your needs!

Delaying the start time on your slow cooker can make all the difference between a meal that’s hot and ready to eat when you get home from work or one that needs to be microwaved. We’re going to take a look at ten of our favorite programmable slow cookers with this feature, so you don’t have to!


Top 10 Programmable Slow Cooker with Delay Start – Comparison Table

Product NameItemMaterialItem dimension (inches)CapacityItem weight (lbs.)
1. Crock-Pot SCCPVL610-S-A Crock-Pot SCCPVL610-S-A 6-Quart Cook & Carry Programmable Slow Cooker with Digital Timer, Stainless SteelStainless Steel9.4 x 15.1
x
14.8
6 Quarts7.93
2. Instant Pot Aura 10-in-1 Instant Pot Aura 10-in-1 Multicooker Slow Cooker, 10 One-Touch Programs, 6 Qt, Silver (AURA 6Qt)Stainless Steel16.8 x 11.6
x
10.7
6 Quarts11.60
3. Crock-Pot 6-Quart Countdown Crock-Pot 6-Quart Countdown Programmable Oval Slow Cooker with Dipper, Stainless Steel, SCCPVC605-SStainless Steel14.5 x 9
x
14.5
6 Quarts8.00
4. Hamilton Beach Stay or Go Portable Hamilton Beach Stay or Go Portable 6-Quart Programmable Slow Cooker With FlexCook Dual Digital Timer for 2 Heat Settings, Lid Lock (33861)Stoneware11.22 x 17.13 x
10.94
6 Quarts11.21
5. Elite Gourmet MST-900D Elite Gourmet MST-900D Digital Programmable Slow Cooker, Oval Adjustable Temp, Entrees, Sauces, Stews & Dips, Dishwasher Safe Glass Lid & Crock (8.5 Quart, Stainless Steel)Aluminum16.34 x 11.73 x
11.81
2 Quarts14.55
6. Hamilton Beach Portable 6-Quart Set Hamilton Beach Portable 6-Quart Set & Forget Digital Programmable Slow Cooker With Temperature Probe, Lid Lock, Stainless Steel (33969A)Stainless Steel11.25 x 17.5
x
11.75
6 Quarts0.14
7. Hamilton Beach 4-Quart Hamilton Beach 4-Quart Programmable Slow Cooker With Dishwasher-Safe Crock and Lid, Silver (33443)Stainless Steel9.84 x 9.06
x
15.16
4-Quart8.30
8. Cuisinart PSC-350 3-1/2-Quart Cuisinart PSC-350 3-1/2-Quart Programmable Slow Cooker, Silver, 9-1/2 in H x 9.1 in W x 12.67 in LStainless Steel14.2 x 16.5
x
11.8
3.3 Liters11.75
9. Instant Pot Duo 7 in1 Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker, Slow Cooker, Rice Cooker, Steamer, Sauté, Yogurt Maker, Warmer & Sterilizer, 6 Quart, Stainless Steel/BlackStainless Steel13.38 x 12.2
x
12.48
5.68 Liters11.8
10. Hamilton Beach Extra Large 10 Quart Hamilton Beach Slow Cooker, Extra Large 10 Quart, Stay or Go Portable With Lid Lock, Dishwasher Safe Crock, Black (33195)Stoneware12.5 x 15.75
x
11.5
10 Quarts15.66

Reviews of 10 Best Programmable Slow Cooker with Delay Start of 2021


1. Crock-Pot SCCPVL610-S-A 6-Quart Cook & Carry Programmable Slow Cooker

Crock-Pot SCCPVL610-S-A 6-Quart Cook & Carry Programmable Slow Cooker with Digital Timer, Stainless Steel

Crock-Pot introduced the new slow cooker with all of its features to make your family gathering easy and enjoyable. This 6-quart capacity serves 7+ people, has a digital countdown timer allowing you 20 hours in advance programming up to 24-hour session if needed without changing settings; it also turns itself off after cooking time is complete so that food stays warm until ready for serving (just like an oven!).

In addition, the removable stoneware insert can be used safely inside microwave ovens at 350 degrees F+, refrigerators, and freezers, even though some users have reported difficulty removing cover from the top because there are handles on both sides. This gives more flexibility than other similarly designed products that are limited to refrigerator use only.

Crock-Pot SCCPVL610-S-A 6-Quart Cook & Carry Programmable Slow Cooker with Digital Timer, Stainless Steel
What We Like
  • Large 6-quart capacity can easily cook enough food for a small family reunion or large party.
  • The ability to delay start up to 20 hours allows for better planning.
  • Ability to turn off when cooking is complete saves electricity and reduces the risk of burning your food.
What We Don’t Like
  • The “warm” setting is not very hot, so it will still be cooking your food once you get home.
  • Can be difficult to remove the cover from the top oven rack despite having handles on both sides.

Our Verdict: As one would expect with Crock-Pot, this slow cooker is great for large families or those who like to prepare meals in advance. If you’re looking for a full-sized slow cooker with many options, this is a great choice.


2. Instant Pot Aura 10-in-1 Multicooker Slow Cooker

Instant Pot Aura 10-in-1 Multicooker Slow Cooker, 10 One-Touch Programs, 6 Qt, Silver (AURA 6Qt)

We’ve had a chance to review Instant Pot pressure cookers in the past, but this is our first time with their slow cooker. This model includes all of the features of Instant Pot’s electric pressure cookers, including 10 built-in smart programs for up to 99 minutes cooking time, Dual pressure setting – prevents food from boiling over or drying out while multi cooking, Keep warm program that keeps the contents of the inner pot warm for up to 10 hours and automatically switches to a built-in environment-friendly, power-saving mode after cooking is complete.

The Aura also includes delay timer (2- 24 hours) and 3 temperatures (warm, low, and high) in manual mode. It also can be used to steam vegetables or fish after cooking your main course. The stainless steel inner pot has a 3-ply bottom for even heat distribution without hot spots.

Instant Pot Aura 10-in-1 Multicooker Slow Cooker, 10 One-Touch Programs, 6 Qt, Silver (AURA 6Qt)
What We Like
  • Dual pressure setting – prevents food from boiling over or drying out while multi cooking.
  • Delay timer (2- 24 hours) and 3 temperatures (warm, low and high) in manual mode.
  • Keep warm program that keeps the contents of the inner pot warm for up to 10 hours and automatically switches to a built-in environment-friendly, power-saving mode after cooking is complete.
What We Don’t Like
  • Hard for consumers to find replacement inner pots.
  • Some complaints that the locking mechanism works intermittently.
  • Difficult to remove cover for cleaning because it is completely attached to the inner pot.

Our verdict: While this is a decent product, we felt it didn’t quite live up to what its competitors offer. The features are good but the price seems high, considering you have to handle the cooking pot by hand. If you’re looking for a good slow cooker but don’t need all the bells and whistles, this might be a good choice for you.


3. Crock-Pot 6-Quart Countdown Programmable Oval Slow Cooker

Crock-Pot 6-Quart Countdown Programmable Oval Slow Cooker with Dipper, Stainless Steel, SCCPVC605-S

Deliciously prepare and serve your favorite dishes with the Crock-Pot 6-Quart Countdown Programmable Oval Slow Cooker. This unique oval shaped slow cooker allows you to cook large cuts of meat and a wide variety of foods. An adjustable digital countdown timer lets you precisely set cooking time up to 20 hours in advance, so you can confidently come home to a hot meal after a busy day.

The dishwasher-safe stoneware and lid are removable for straightforward cleanup and this programmable slow cooker comes with a user guide and recipe book for your convenience. Check out the reviews and ratings of this product at Amazon.

Crock-Pot 6-Quart Countdown Programmable Oval Slow Cooker with Dipper, Stainless Steel, SCCPVC605-S
What We Like
  • It’s oval shape is stylish for your table.
  • Dishwasher safe.
  • Comes with a Little Dipper Warmer.
  • Programmable Digital Control.
What We Don’t Like
  • This slow cooker is larger than most standard designs, so you may need to purchase a new one if storage space is an issue.

Our verdict: We suggest that the Crock-Pot 6-Quart Countdown Programmable Oval Slow Cooker would be an excellent purchase for anyone who requires a versatile slow cooker which is capable of cooking large cuts of meat. This programmable slow cooker will certainly provide you with many years of reliable service, and also comes with a 1-year warranty.


4. Hamilton Beach Stay or Go Portable 6-Quart Programmable Slow Cooker

Hamilton Beach Stay or Go Portable 6-Quart Programmable Slow Cooker With FlexCook Dual Digital Timer for 2 Heat Settings, Lid Lock (33861)

The Hamilton Beach Stay or Go Portable 6-Quart Programmable Slow Cooker may be a great option if you’re looking for a small crockpot that’s capable of cooking food while you’re away from home. The main advantage to this slow cooker is that it has a lid that doubles as a portable dish, so you can easily travel with your cooked food. It featured 6 quart removable, dishwasher safe ceramic cooking pot, convenient clip on lid so you can transport your food without spilling or leaking.

Programmable 120 minute timer with automatic warm setting for when the cooking time is up. It has Durable, stainless steel exterior and cool-touch handles. It has dishwasher safe removable stoneware and glass lid. Stay or Go lid is compatible with other 3 & 4 quart Hamilton Beach slow cookers.

Hamilton Beach Stay or Go Portable 6-Quart Programmable Slow Cooker With FlexCook Dual Digital Timer for 2 Heat Settings, Lid Lock (33861)
What We Like
  • This is a good option for those who want to use their slow cooker to transport food. The clip on lid and carry handle make this easy, and the overall design is more portable than the other options on the list.
What We Don’t Like
  • The slow cooker function of this unit isn’t very versatile; you can only choose from low, high, or warm heat settings.

Our Verdict: If you want a simple, portable slow cooker that’s easy to transport and clean, this is a good option. If you’re looking for something with a little more versatility, consider a different option on the list.


5. Elite Gourmet MST-900D Digital Programmable Slow Cooker

Elite Gourmet MST-900D Digital Programmable Slow Cooker, Oval Adjustable Temp, Entrees, Sauces, Stews & Dips, Dishwasher Safe Glass Lid & Crock (8.5 Quart, Stainless Steel)

 The Elite Gourmet MST-900D Digital Programmable Slow Cooker is our top pick. The 8.5 quart capacity offers plenty of room for large cuts of meat, while the four heat settings allow you to cook at high, low or keep warm temperatures depending on your needs. Durable and convenient, this slow cooker offers easy-to-use digital controls for those who want a high-end product that doesn’t require too much fuss.

It is an ideal kitchen appliance for preparing family meals. With its large capacity, you can cook a whole chicken or roast to perfection. The removable oval crock makes it easy to serve and also allows for effortless cleanup. This will become your favorite slow cooker!

Elite Gourmet MST-900D Digital Programmable Slow Cooker, Oval Adjustable Temp, Entrees, Sauces, Stews & Dips, Dishwasher Safe Glass Lid & Crock (8.5 Quart, Stainless Steel)
What We Like
  • 8.5 quart capacity.
  • Programmable up to 20 hours.
  • Large oval shape with 4 heat settings (high, low, warm, and keep warm).
  • Dishwasher safe glass lid and removable oval crock.
  • Durable stainless steel exterior.
What We Don’t Like
  • Quite heavy.
  • Some complaints of the digital display not working after a year or so.

Our verdict: This is our top pick for best slow cooker. For those who want a high-end model that doesn’t need too much fuss, this is one of the best. It provides all the basic features you’ll need at a price that won’t break the bank. If you do tend to cook on high heat for a long time, then you might want to look at something else. Also remember that the digital display is prone to problems. Otherwise, this is a solid product that will probably last you many years.


6. Hamilton Beach Portable 6-Quart Set & Forget Digital Programmable Slow Cooker

Hamilton Beach Portable 6-Quart Set & Forget Digital Programmable Slow Cooker With Temperature Probe, Lid Lock, Stainless Steel (33969A)

For a healthy lifestyle, it’s important to make a few smart changes. One of those changes is cooking with your slow cooker. Not only does this save you time, but it allows the flavors in your food to meld together for a more flavorful dish. The Hamilton Beach 6 Qt Set & Forget Digital Programmable Slow Cooker features Smart technology that allows you to cook a recipe to either a desired cooking time or specific temperature before automatically switching to warm when it’s done.

This makes it easy for anyone to create delicious recipes using fresh ingredients and have them ready when you are. Feel free to take the slow cooker with you on the go by using the clip-tight gasket lid that secures the lid in place and the stainless steel exterior that makes cleanup a breeze.

Hamilton Beach Portable 6-Quart Set & Forget Digital Programmable Slow Cooker With Temperature Probe, Lid Lock, Stainless Steel (33969A)
What We Like
  • Sleek and stylish design.
  • Lid locks in place.
  • User friendly interface.
What We Don’t Like
  • Lid doesn’t seal well, leaks liquid.
  • Difficult to clean.

Our Verdict: If you want an affordable slow cooker with smart technology and a clip-tight lid, this is the product for you. Although it has some cons that could be improved, the user-friendly interface and other great features make this product worth it.


7. Hamilton Beach 4-Quart Programmable Slow Cooker

Hamilton Beach 4-Quart Programmable Slow Cooker With Dishwasher-Safe Crock and Lid, Silver (33443)

The Hamilton Beach 4-Quart Programmable Slow Cooker can help you get dinner on the table even when you’re running late. With three choices of cooking temperature, you can choose the ideal heat level for your recipe. A pre-programmed digital control panel lets you select high, low or warm settings for your dishes, and then go about your day knowing that dinner is cooking.

The large four-quart removable stoneware pot comes out of the cooker easily with a dishwasher-safe glass lid that lets you keep an eye on your cooking. The removable pot doubles as a serving dish, so you can serve right at the table or buffet. It will accommodate a 5-pound chicken or 4- to 6-pound roast. It’s easy to travel with, too. When you’re taking it to a potluck or party, the hinged lid stays secure with stay-cool handles, and it locks to protect against breakage. It can also be plugged into any standard electrical outlet.

Hamilton Beach 4-Quart Programmable Slow Cooker With Dishwasher-Safe Crock and Lid, Silver (33443)
What We Like
  • Comes with very good user reviews.
  • Easy to program and operate.
  • Removable stoneware pot doubles as a serving dish for buffet or travel.
  • Programmable temperature can be set to high, low or warm.
  • Comes with a removable stoneware pot and glass lid.
What We Don’t Like
  • No cons have been noted.

Our Verdict: The Hamilton Beach 4-Quart Programmable Slow Cooker is a great choice for those who want to make their own meals and save money. It’s easy to use, and it gives you three cooking options for the ideal heat level. The removable pot doubles as a serving dish, so you can get your food to the table without having to transfer it.


8. Cuisinart PSC-350 3-1/2-Quart Programmable Slow Cooker

Cuisinart PSC-350 3-1/2-Quart Programmable Slow Cooker, Silver, 9-1/2 in H x 9.1 in W x 12.67 in L

The Cuisinart 3-1/2 Quart Programmable Slow Cooker, Silver (PSC-350), has a oval shape and white color, with a silver lid. It is certified by the North American electrical standard. When shipped brand new, it comes in basic white box packaging with a limited one-year warranty.

The stainless steel exterior and ceramic pot is dishwasher safe, but hand-washing is recommended to prolong the exterior’s shiny appearance. The ceramic pot is also oven safe and can be used to cook soups or sauces, such as the Nutty Pumpkin-Apple Butter shown in the instruction manual, with just an extra potholder for protection. The pot is also grill safe, but only on the unplugged cooker.

There are three buttons for controls on the front panel, with an LED timer. The upper left button is to select the cooking mode (Off/On, Keep Warm, Low and High Settings), the upper right button is to set the cooking time (hours and minutes) with the time display starting at 0, and the bottom button turns the unit on/off. The touchpad control panel is very easy to navigate through, and even a child could do so without any problem.

As an oval-shaped slow cooker, there are handles on either side of the unit for safety. There is also an automatic warm function that prevents overcooking after the cooking time has elapsed, which can be found at the bottom of the unit, along with the power cord storage.

The package comes with a user manual that includes recipes and tips for cooking various dishes in the slow cooker. There is also a toll-free number within the user manual for product support and assistance.

Cuisinart PSC-350 3-1/2-Quart Programmable Slow Cooker, Silver, 9-1/2 in H x 9.1 in W x 12.67 in L
What We Like
  • Oval shape provides more area to cook larger meats.
  • Digital controls are easy to navigate through, even for children.
  • Lightweight with a removable pot for easy cleaning.
  • Programmable cooking modes (Off/On, Keep Warm, Low and High Settings).
  • Onboard 24-hour timer.
What We Don’t Like
  • There is no glass lid to see the pot contents, but this is common with slow cookers.

Our Verdict: The Cuisinart 3-1/2 Quart Programmable Slow Cooker, Silver (CSC-350), is a great product for those who enjoy slow cooking, as it automatically shifts from cooking to Keep Warm after the food has been cooked. It is a great size for a family of 4-6, and the oval shape provides more cooking space for larger cuts of meat.


9. Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1

Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker, Slow Cooker, Rice Cooker, Steamer, Sauté, Yogurt Maker, Warmer & Sterilizer, 6 Quart, Stainless Steel/Black

The Instant Pot is a 7 in 1 multi-use programmable pressure cooker that combines 9 kitchen appliances in one: Pressure Cooker, Slow Cooker, Rice/Porridge Cooker, Yogurt Maker, Steamer, Sauté/Searing Pan and Food Warmer. It is designed to replace your current rice cooker, steamer and slow cooker. The Instant Pot provides fast and nutritious meals for the whole family with minimal effort!

Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker, Slow Cooker, Rice Cooker, Steamer, Sauté, Yogurt Maker, Warmer & Sterilizer, 6 Quart, Stainless Steel/Black
What We Like
  • Extremely fast cooking times.
  • Ability to saute and sear before slow cooking or pressure cooking.
  • Slow cook feature has 4 options: Warm, Low, Medium, High.
  • Languages supported are English and Chinese (Simplified) only.
  • Inner cooking pot is stainless steel.
What We Don’t Like
  • Only a stainless steel pot is included, not a nonstick pot.
  • Slow cook feature can only be set for 4 hrs or less.

Our Verdict: If you are looking for a kitchen appliance that does it all, this is the one.


10. Hamilton Beach Extra Large 10 Quart Slow Cooker

Hamilton Beach Slow Cooker, Extra Large 10 Quart, Stay or Go Portable With Lid Lock, Dishwasher Safe Crock, Black (33195)

For families that love to entertain or host big holiday dinners, this extra-large Hamilton Beach slow cooker is the perfect oven-free solution for everything from juicy turkey breast to flavorful stews and crispy chicken wings. The locking lid securely seals the cool-touch dishwasher-safe ceramic crock, so you can easily transport your dish to a friend’s house or a potluck. It has three temperature settings, including warm mode that continues to cook food as long as your guests are still eating, so you don’t have to worry about overcooked or dried-out leftovers.

Perfect for everything from juicy turkey breast to flavorful stews and crispy chicken wings, this extra-large Hamilton Beach slow cooker is the perfect oven-free solution for your holiday meals.

Hamilton Beach Slow Cooker, Extra Large 10 Quart, Stay or Go Portable With Lid Lock, Dishwasher Safe Crock, Black (33195)
What We Like
  • Large Capacity.
  • Multiple Temperature Settings.
  • Dishwasher Safe.
What We Don’t Like
  • Lid handle is small making, it difficult to carry and use in the shorter term.

Our Verdict: For all the families who love to entertain and host big holiday dinners, this extra-large Hamilton Beach slow cooker is the perfect.


Frequently Asked Question:

Do you have to brown meat before slow cooker?

Answer: Ground meat should be browned before you add it to the slow cooker, but not all recipes require this step. Some may call for a rich and full flavor from caramelized surfaces of meats by either pan-frying or sautéing them beforehand in oil first before transferring onto your crockpot dish where they will cook away during both hours on low heat setting as well as if using an instant pot/pressure cooking method which needs very little time at all since food cooks under pressure so fast!

Can you put raw meat in a slow cooker?

Answer: A slow cooker is the perfect tool for heating up meats that are otherwise difficult to cook. You can even put raw meat in this appliance, although it will take longer than when cooked on other surfaces because of its low heat output/rated capacity–the name says all! But there’s one thing you should know before using your trusty Crockpot: don’t mix frozen with fresh or chilled foods as they won’t get heated through properly due their properties alone being different types inside without enough contact time needed before cooking which could lead not only frustrating results but food waste too if left unchecked long enough while risking potentially dangerous bacteria build-up from having been stored incorrectly at some point during the process. If you’re going to use frozen foods, you must prep and partially or fully thaw them before proceeding.

What is the best size slow cooker to buy?

Answer: For most people, a five- to six quart slow cooker will be more than enough. This size can feed a couple and provide leftovers for the fridge or freezer with room in between meals if necessary. If you have larger family members who require lots of food storage options though (or live far away from your future home’s kitchen), opt instead for an eight quarts model that feels like quite spacious cooking space when using all its surface area!

Do slow cookers use a lot of electricity?

Answer: Modern slow cookers use a lot less electricity than other cooking appliances. Electric stovetop, oven and pressure cooker all consume more energy in comparison to the same appliance set on low for eight hours!

Final Thought

If you’re looking for a slow cooker with a delay start, we hope our reviews of some of the Best Programmable Slow Cooker with Delay Start out there have been helpful. We found that most models on the market require an app to work and can be expensive when compared to other features they offer. The one exception is Elite Gourmet MST-900D Digital Programmable Slow Cooker which offers all these benefits in a sleek design at an affordable price point! This model has received rave customer ratings online so it might just be your best option if you’re after this feature specifically!

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