Jumping into the world of air fryers can be confusing, with models, sub-models and sizes to consider before you have even decided if you need an air fryer. However, I have all the inside info and will lay everything out – By the end of this article, you will be certain of the differences and better prepared to jump into your next purchase!
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The Instant Pot Vortex can air fry, bake, reheat and roast. The Instant Pot Vortex Plus has the functionality of the Vortex with the added functions of dehydrating and broiling food. The Vortex Plus is currently retailing for
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Important Information:
For this article, we are comparing the 6 Quart versions for both. Both models have different sizes and come with other functions. Given the 6-quart models are the most popular and not to confuse (myself). We are sticking to the two best-selling models.
Also, it’s worth noting. The 6 quart (from my experience) is the ideal size for a fryer, 10. Quart fryers take much longer to reach optimum temperature and never quite hit the perfect cooking the 6 quarts can achieve.
| Feature | Instant Pot Vortex | Instant Pot Vortex Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 6 Quart | 6 Quart |
| Price | $119.99 | $139.99 |
| Cooking Functions | Air Fry, Bake, Reheat, Roast | Air Fry, Bake, Reheat, Roast, Dehydrate, Broil |
| Viewing Window | No | Yes (clear window) |
| Control Panel | Vertical | Angled for easier viewing |
| Odor Control | No | Yes (changeable OdorErase filters) |
| Noise Level | Louder | Quieter |
| Basket Material | Standard | Thicker for viewing window |
| Dimensions | 14.92″ x 12.36″ x 12.83″ | 14.92″ x 11.81″ x 12.99″ |
| Recommended for | Basic air frying needs | Those who cook daily or like extra functions |
PICK IT UP HERE (Update July ’23 – On SALE –43%) –
[amazon box=”B08V57P86Z” title=”Instant Vortex Standard 5.7QT.” description=”Perfect starter model for those getting into the game.”]
NB This is the best deal I have seen for the Vortex
At first glance, both units look comparable, but on a closer inspection, there are some significant design differences.
The first striking difference is the viewing window on the Vortex Plus, which solves the pain that most air fryer users (like myself) feel when repeatedly opening the unit to check on your food. It seems to be an obvious design choice for all air fryers, which leaves us begging the question – Why hasn’t anyone else thought of it?
Opening and closing air fryers cause the air fryer to lose heat and blast your freshly cooking food with cold air. With the perfect viewing window, you can check in on your food – or stare at it cooking for too long.
PICK IT UP HERE On Sale FOR 89.99! (Update July’23) -25%
[amazon box=”B096N3FTZP” title=”Instant Vortex Plus 6QT.” description=”Great for bigger families or those who like to have a cheeky peeky at their food cooking.”]
NB Such a great deal – This is the model I recommend to family
Those who stand by the statement that “size matters” will be happy to know the units come in almost identical, with the Vortex plus being (only significantly) slightly smaller.
Vortex Dimentions: 14.92” length x 12.36” wide x 12.83” height
Vortex Plus Dimentions: 14.92″ length x 11.81″ wide x 12.99″ height
The other big difference is the angles of the control panels. Both units have full touch control panels with a digital turn dial to precisely control times. However, the Vortex Plus sports an angled control panel, making it both more accessible to control – and easier to see.
One issue becomes more obvious the more you use appliances. Is the vertical displays most appliances sport. Most countertops are at waist height, meaning any appliances on top rarely meet eye level, leading to an awkward bend to view and control most.
With the slightly angled display, we can at last use the controls without the awkward bend of the knees. Making the Vortex plus the obvious choice for “older” users or those who will be using the unit regularly.
This is pretty much a non-issue if you plan on using the unit once a week or so. However, if you are cooking all day with appliances, the tilted display and accessibility are all welcome additions.
[amazon box=”B09R8TBSXJ” title=”Replacement Odor Ease Filter” description=”For use with the 6QT Vortex Plus”]
As briefly touched on, both units have the standard air fryer cooking methods we expect and a little more, with both units being able to air fry, bake, reheat and roast.
Undoubtedly, most people will be Air Frying most of the time. However, the make reheat and roast settings are welcome additions that can serve as handy features, especially on busy occasions when your regular oven may be in use.
These also serve as great oven alternatives for people travelling in RVs or camping.
The Vortex Plus has the above functions, with the added benefit of being able to dehydrate and broil food.
When using comparable functions, there is no difference between units. They have been reported to be identical in cooking quality and cooking time. The only difference is the Vortex Plus runs a little quieter than the Vortex, presumably due to the added filter and the thicker basket due to the viewing window.
Instant™ Vortex™ Plus 6-quart Clear Cook Air Fryer
Currently, as per the time of writing, the Instant Pot Vortex retails at $119.99, and the Vortex plus is sitting at $139.99, leaving a $20 difference between units.
While they are both comparable, the units have subtle quality of life improvements. While cooking is identical, not many will use the extra Broiling and Dehydration setting for the Plus. However…
The pull of the Vortex Plus comes threefold.
The viewing window is almost worth the upgrade alone.
The control panel angle may be a “Me” problem, but one of my irks in life has been solved. I no longer have to pop up and down to control my appliances. I now have everything at arm’s length and eye level, making life a little more straightforward.
Odor Ease Filters, Again, cooking smells are never a problem for me – I like the smell of food. I can see the pull for people who don’t want the smell of food all over the house (especially fried food) or live close to others and want to be considerate.
For the extra $20, the Vortex plus feels like a no-brainer. However, if you don’t particularly think you will be using the clear view window, don’t mind getting down to eye level. Either unit cooks perfectly and functions like good solid Air Fryers.
Final Note – If you are in the game for a Vortex – Amazon have seemingly rolled the prime day deals over – Dale
[amazon table=”11186″]
