Checklist

There are plenty of good reasons to invest in a pressure cooker, as they suit quick cooking of economical and healthy foods that usually need much longer cooking times.

Their short cooking times mean they use minimal energy. And because they cook with little added liquid, they retain water-soluble vitamins - although that'd also happen with a slow cooker or conventional casserole cooking.

However, there's the initial investment to consider: the models we tested ranged in price from $195 to $499. (The most expensive model wasn't the best in our test, either.)

What to look for

• Pressure-release valve: Most (but not all) models have one. It means you don't have to bother about cooling down the cooker before you open it - by carrying it to the sink to run water over it or allowing extra cool-down time at the end of cooking.
  
  
• Locking lid: A lid that locks is safer than a lid that simply twists on to the top of the cooker.
  
  
• Pressure indicator: This lets you know when the cooker has reached the correct pressure for cooking; and also when it's safe to open it.
  
  
• Pressure settings: The higher the pressure, the quicker the cooking time - check the high and low operating pressures before you buy a cooker. More than one setting allows you to adjust the amount of time it takes to cook different dishes.
  
  
• Size: We tested the popular 6- to 6.5-litre size. This won't fit a whole chicken but you can buy larger sizes.
  
  
• Gasket: Check that replacement gaskets are available and how much they cost. The rubber rim around the edge of the lid deteriorates - so to extend its life you need to oil it regularly and keep it clean. Store the lid upside-down on the pot so the gasket doesn't deform.