How We Test

Our testing is built to answer the only question that matters: Will this cooker deliver safe, predictable meals—fast—week after week in a real kitchen?

Test Environment and Instruments

Timing: We record total time to eat (preheat + pressure time + release) using synchronized timers.
Temperature/Pressure: Thermocouples and pressure sensors verify target pressure and stability across cycles.
Energy: Plug‑level watt‑hour meters for electric models; fuel/utility readings or calibrated sensors for gas. We compute energy per meal.
Noise/Safety: We note venting noise, steam patterns, and safety event logs (lock faults, over‑temp warnings, BURN errors).

Core Protocols

Time–Thickness Mapping: We test proteins, legumes, and roots across thickness bands to produce reliable baselines.
Altitude & Release Adjustments: Each baseline is validated at multiple altitudes and with natural, quick, and pulse releases; the Timing Converter encodes these adjustments.
Capacity & Batch Scaling: We vary pot size and load (including pot‑in‑pot) to ensure times scale predictably without texture loss.
Error Recovery: We reproduce sealing problems and BURN conditions, then document safe, stepwise recovery.

Scoring Rubric (What We Measure)

Speed to Table (30%): Total time including preheat and release across a six‑recipe suite.
Consistency (25%): Variance across batches and altitudes.
Safety & Failsafes (20%): Locking, venting control, thermal protection, and clear error messaging.
Ownership Cost (15%): Gasket/ring longevity, spare‑part availability, cleaning effort, and energy per meal.
Ease of Use (10%): Controls, labeling, condensation management, and included accessories that matter.

Verification and Updates

We cross‑check against manufacturer manuals and food‑safety guidance. Firmware updates and new gasket formulations trigger retests. Methodology notes and change logs are date‑stamped so you can track what changed and why.

Ethics

We buy retail units whenever feasible; loaners receive the same protocols and disclosure. No sponsored placements. Affiliate revenue, when present, never dictates results.