Our criteria for choosing a slow cooker

	Meg’s Criteria	Jane’s Criteria
Cooking insert type	Cast Iron insert that can be used on the stoveproof for browning and also ovenproof for finishing off dishes under the broiler or reheating in the oven	Cast Iron insert no need to brown meat in a separate pan since the insert can be used on the stovetop, reducing the need for washing up!
Timer	Timer setting which works in ½ hour increments	Simple settings with a “keep warm” feature
Size	6 quart to feed a family of 5	6 quart to feed a family of 4, cook large pieces of meat and allow for freezing extra portions
Cost	durability more important than cost	under $100
Durability	important for frequent use	important
Slow Cooker	All-Clad 6 quart programmable stovetop slow cooker	Hamilton Beach 6 quart programmable stovetop slow cooker

The well known Cooks Illustrated magazine presented the results of tests done by Cook’s Country on a series of slow cookers. Their “highly recommended” slow cooker is the Crock Pot Touchscreen available for around $80. There are many other choices and reviews can be found online. Meg and I both love our All Clad and Hamilton Beach models.

Crock Pot Touchscreen

Williams and Sonoma for All Clad Slow Cooker

Crate and Barrel for All Clad Slow Cooker

Hamilton Beach Stovetop friendly Slow Cooker at Amazon