Price Point: Mid-to-High
There’s no question that slow cookers are versatile kitchen tools. They can cook stews, soups, casseroles, roasts and a virtually limitless number of other recipes, all in one pot and with very little cleanup.
But if you want a slow cooker that offers more than just basic functionality, take a look at the Calphalon 7 Quart Digital Slow Cooker. With an extra-large 7-quart capacity, this model is perfect for larger families and those who like to prepare a lot of food at one time to freeze for later use.
There are many other features that make this extended capacity slow cooker attractive as well, so let’s take a look…
Slow cookers are great because you simply plug them in, add your ingredients, and walk away. You return after a hard, long day at work or play, and your food is ready. But unlike entry-level models, the 7-Quart Digital Slow Cooker from Calphalon comes equipped with an intelligent 24-hour digital timer which automatically switches to a warming mode at the end of your programmed cooking cycle. Another nice feature not found on less expensive models is the easy-to-read, high-contrast LCD display, which you can quickly read with just a glance across your kitchen.
After looking at the online reviews left by actual buyers of the Calphalon 7 Quart Digital Slow Cooker, you understand quickly how it earned a respectable 4.3 (out of 5.0) customer satisfaction rating. Overall, buyers repeatedly stated that they were happy with the dishwasher-safe 7-quart ceramic pot, because it makes cleanup so much easier. Also, as part of the Calphalon Kitchen Electrics collection, this slow cooker features the exclusive Opti-Heat System. Buyers pointed out that this feature gives much more precise and accurate temperature control and even heat delivery than other slow cookers they have used in the past.
In addition, the exterior stays cool to the touch and it includes a convenient auto setting option, which cooks for two hours on high and then switches to low for the remainder of the cook time.
No product is 100% perfect, however. The extra-large 7-quart capacity makes for a big unit, which means sufficient storage and counter top space is needed. You’ll definitely want to keep this in mind if space is at a premium in your kitchen. Otherwise, for large families and those who like to cook a lot at one time, this is a great slow cooker with a lot of high-end features.
Bottom Line:
If you are looking for a slow cooker with maximum capacity, a “keep cool” exterior, digital temperature control and easy to clean, dishwasher-safe components, the Calphalon 7 Quart Digital Slow Cooker deserves your consideration. Attractively designed with a stainless steel outer shell, the mid-level price tag reflects excellent value for the features and benefits you receive.
However, if you prefer decent capacity and no-mess, lid-locking transportability in a lower-priced entry-level slow cooker, you may want to check out the Hamilton Beach Stay or Go 6 Quart Slow Cooker.
