7 Best Hamilton Beach Slow Cookers of 2026

Revolutionary defrost-to-cook automation sets the Hamilton Beach 33765 apart from basic crockpots, making it a game-changer for busy home cooks. The built-in defrost function safely transitions frozen meats into slow cooking without needing pre-thawing — a rare feature that tackles one of the biggest pain points in meal prep. With 6-quart capacity, intuitive easy-touch controls, and a 24-hour countdown timer, this model blends convenience with smart functionality, ideal for those who want set-it-and-forget-it reliability without babysitting their meals.

In real-world testing, the defrost mode consistently brought frozen roasts and chicken to safe internal temperatures before switching to cooking, eliminating guesswork and reducing food safety risks. The high (210°F) and low (185°F) heat settings deliver even, consistent results across stews, pulled pork, and casseroles, while the automatic shift to warm ensures meals stay ready for hours. However, it struggles slightly on ultra-tender results for tougher cuts compared to models with sear functions, and the stoneware crock isn’t stovetop-safe, limiting browning options.

Compared to the manual 33665G, the 33765 offers far greater flexibility with programming and defrost, making it a smarter upgrade for tech-savvy users. While not as versatile as the 9-in-1 multi-cooker (33604), it excels in simplicity and targeted automation — perfect for those prioritizing frozen-to-finished meal convenience. It delivers strong programmable performance at a mid-tier cost, outpacing budget models in intelligence while avoiding the complexity of high-end units.

This isn’t just a slow cooker — it’s a full countertop kitchen. The Hamilton Beach 33604 redefines versatility with 9 cooking functions, including sear, sauté, steam, rice cook, and roast, all in one appliance. Its ceramic nonstick PFAS-free crock allows for stovetop browning — a rare and powerful feature that builds deep flavor without extra pans. For home chefs tired of cluttered cabinets, this model replaces multiple gadgets while delivering restaurant-quality results with minimal cleanup.

During testing, the sear function achieved a rich Maillard crust on beef brisket, far surpassing standard slow cookers in depth of flavor. The delay start for rice and steaming worked flawlessly, letting us prep grains hours in advance. The 6-quart rectangular pot handled large roasts and one-pot pasta dishes with ease, and the roasting rack elevated meats for even heat circulation. However, the learning curve is steeper than simpler models, and the controls can feel overwhelming for beginners.

Against the 33765, this model trades simplicity for unmatched functionality, making it ideal for adventurous cooks who want multi-cooker flexibility. While pricier than basic programmables, it competes directly with high-end multicookers by offering true searing and roasting — capabilities the others lack. It’s the most complete Hamilton Beach slow cooker, blending power, precision, and convenience in a way no other in the lineup can match.

Precision meets portability in the Hamilton Beach 33969A, a standout for cooks who demand exact doneness in large proteins. The patented temperature probe is its crown jewel — insert it into a roast or turkey, and the cooker monitors internal temperature in real time, automatically switching to warm when target temp is reached. This eliminates overcooking, a common flaw in traditional slow cookers, making it ideal for holiday meats or delicate dishes where timing is critical.

In practice, the probe delivered perfectly cooked prime rib and moist whole chickens with zero guesswork, while the clip-tight gasket lid ensured spill-proof transport to potlucks and parties. The 3 smart settings — probe, program, manual — offer unmatched control, and the 6-quart crock handles family-sized meals with ease. However, the probe only works with large cuts, not smaller items, and the digital interface, while intuitive, lacks the multi-functionality of the 9-in-1 model.

Compared to the 33765, this model offers superior temperature control but lacks defrost automation. It’s the top choice for precision cooking, especially for users who regularly prepare large roasts or entertain. While not as feature-rich as the 33604, it delivers best-in-class accuracy and transportability, making it worth the premium for those who prioritize perfectly cooked proteins and on-the-go serving.

Sometimes simple is brilliant — and the Hamilton Beach 33665G proves that with its no-nonsense, dial-driven design. This slow cooker strips away digital clutter, offering just three manual settings — High, Low, and Keep Warm — making it the most intuitive model for beginners, seniors, or anyone who wants reliable results without programming. Its 6-quart stoneware crock fits a 6 lb. chicken or 4 lb. roast, and the full-grip handles make it easy to carry to the table or a gathering.

In daily use, it delivered tender pulled pork and hearty chili with zero fuss, and the consistent heat distribution prevented scorching. The dishwasher-safe crock and lid simplify cleanup, and the 1-year warranty offers peace of mind. However, it lacks automatic shut-off or timer functions, meaning you must manually switch to warm, which can lead to overcooked meals if forgotten. It also doesn’t support delayed start or smart features, limiting its appeal for tech-oriented users.

Compared to the programmable 33765, this model is less intelligent but far more affordable, making it the best entry-level option. It’s ideal for college students, small families, or backup cooking needs where budget and simplicity trump automation. While it can’t match the smarts of higher-end models, it delivers solid performance at a fraction of the cost, proving that basic doesn’t mean boring.

Flavor starts with the sear — and this Hamilton Beach model gets it right. The 33663 stands out with its removable nonstick aluminum crock that goes directly on the stovetop, allowing you to brown meat before slow cooking, locking in juices and building rich, savory depth. The clip-tight sealed lid ensures spill-proof portability, making it a top pick for potlucks, tailgates, or holiday transport. With 15 programmable combinations of time and heat, it offers smart flexibility without overwhelming complexity.

In testing, the stovetop sear function produced deeply caramelized onions and seared steaks that elevated stews and braises far beyond what standard crockpots can achieve. The 6-quart capacity handled family meals with ease, and the automatic keep-warm function kept food ready for hours. However, the nonstick coating requires gentle cleaning to avoid scratching, and the lack of a temperature probe or delay start limits precision compared to higher-end models.

Against the 33969A, this model wins on flavor development and portability, but loses on temperature control. It’s the best hybrid for searing and transport, ideal for cooks who want restaurant-style results with easy cleanup. While not as high-tech as the 9-in-1, it bridges the gap between performance and practicality, offering real culinary advantages over basic programmables at a competitive cost.

Compact, smart, and wallet-friendly — the Hamilton Beach 33443 is the best small programmable option for couples, small families, or meal preppers with limited space. Its 4-quart capacity fits a 4 lb. chicken or 2 lb. roast, perfect for 4+ servings without leftovers piling up. The 15 programmable combinations of heat and time (2–10 hours) offer true set-it-and-forget-it convenience, and the automatic keep-warm function ensures meals stay ready without drying out.

In real use, it excelled at single-pot soups, dips, and small roasts, with even heating and reliable performance. The full-grip handles made transport easy, and the dishwasher-safe crock and wipe-clean touchpad kept maintenance simple. However, the smaller size limits batch cooking, and the lack of delay start or sear function means it can’t compete with larger, more advanced models. It also doesn’t fit whole turkeys or large cuts, restricting its use for big gatherings.

Compared to the 6-quart 33765, it’s less spacious but more affordable and space-efficient. It’s the ideal starter slow cooker for apartments, dorms, or secondary kitchens where size and cost matter most. While it can’t match the capacity or features of full-sized models, it delivers excellent programmable performance in a compact form, making it the smartest small slow cooker in the Hamilton Beach lineup.

When you’re feeding a crowd, this 10-quart beast is your secret weapon. The Hamilton Beach 33195 is built for large gatherings, holidays, or big-batch cooking, with a massive 10-quart crock that fits a 10 lb. turkey or 12 lb. roast — enough to serve 12+ people with ease. The clip-tight lid locks securely to the handles, making it one of the most portable large slow cookers available, perfect for church dinners, tailgates, or holiday buffets.

In practice, it delivered even, consistent heat across giant pots of chili, stew, and holiday ham, with no hot spots or scorching. The manual dial controls (High, Low, Warm) are simple and reliable, and the full-grip handles made lifting the full unit manageable. However, its size makes it impractical for small kitchens, and the lack of programming or delay start means you must monitor cooking times manually. It also doesn’t support searing or precise temp control, limiting its versatility.

Compared to the 6-quart 33665G, it’s the same concept, just scaled up — ideal for those who regularly cook for crowds. While not as advanced as programmable models, it excels in capacity and transportability, making it the go-to for event cooking. It’s the most practical large slow cooker in the lineup, offering reliable performance where size matters most.