How to Choose the Perfect Pressure Cooker in India (Beginner’s Pressure Cooker Buying Guide 2025)
Pressure cookers are essential in Indian kitchens — from cooking dals and rice to preparing curries and steamed dishes quickly and efficiently. But with so many options available, how do you choose the right one?
This beginner-friendly pressure cooker buying guide breaks it down for you.
What Is a Pressure Cooker?
A pressure cooker is a sealed pot that uses steam pressure to cook food faster than conventional methods. It’s a time-saving and energy-efficient solution, ideal for Indian cooking styles that involve boiling, steaming, or simmering.
Types of Pressure Cookers
🔸 Aluminium
- Lightweight and affordable
- Heats up quickly
- Not as durable over time
- Reacts with acidic foods (like tamarind or tomatoes)
🔸 Stainless Steel
- More durable and scratch-resistant
- Doesn’t react with food
- Slightly heavier and more expensive
🔸 Hard-Anodized Aluminium
- Durable like stainless steel, lighter than it
- Non-reactive surface
- Often priced mid-range
Sizes: How Big Should You Go?
Here’s a simple guide:
| Size | Ideal For |
|---|---|
| 1.5L – 2L | Singles or couples |
| 3L – 5L | Families of 3–5 |
| 6L and above | Larger families or meal prep |
💡 Tip: If you mostly cook dals or rice, a 3–5L cooker is usually sufficient.
Popular Pressure Cooker Brands in India
You can’t go wrong with these trusted names:
- Hawkins – Classic, reliable, with inner lid design
- Prestige – Wide variety, good after-sales service
- Butterfly – Affordable and stylish
- Pigeon – Budget-friendly options
- Borosil – Growing in popularity for modern homes
Must-Have Features to Look For
✅ ISI Certification (for safety)
✅ Rubber gasket & safety valve
✅ Comfortable, heat-resistant handles
✅ Compatible with your stove (gas/induction)
Stovetop vs Induction Base
Many pressure cookers now come with dual compatibility — they work on both gas stoves and induction cooktops. If you’re planning to upgrade your kitchen in the future, it’s smart to buy a cooker that supports both.
Price Ranges (Approx.)
| Type | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Aluminium | ₹700 – ₹1,500 |
| Stainless Steel | ₹1,500 – ₹3,500 |
| Hard-Anodized | ₹2,000 – ₹4,000 |
Don’t just buy the cheapest option — invest in durability and safety.
Here are a few Pressure Cookers by Prestige sold on Amazon. Buy the size suitable for you. You cant go wrong!
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right pressure cooker isn’t just about price — it’s about what fits your cooking habits, family size, and kitchen setup. For most Indian households, a 3–5L stainless steel cooker offers the best balance of safety, performance, and longevity.
Once you have bought a pressure cooker, you can test it out using one of our simple recipes like simple steamed rice or yellow dal tadka.