The Hamilton Beach Stay or Go Portable 6-Quart Slow Cooker (33262) stands out as an exemplary basic slow cooker, praised for its simplicity and efficiency. This cooker’s large capacity is sufficient for a variety of dishes, and its user-friendly design with high, low, and warm settings is particularly appreciated. Users note that standard recipe times align perfectly with this cooker’s performance, highlighting its even heating capabilities.
Pros of this model include its large capacity, straightforward controls, even heating, dishwasher-safe crock, and excellent value for the price. However, some users have pointed out cons like its unwieldy nature in storage due to the lid clips.
Customers have reported mixed experiences over the years. One user, who replaced an older model with this one, missed the indicator light, a feature they considered essential for safety. Another highlighted the initial rubber seal smell on the lid, which was unpleasant but did not affect the food’s taste. The locking lid feature is generally seen as a positive, enhancing the cooker’s portability, though users are cautioned not to cook with the lid clamps on, as it may cause the glass to break.
The simplicity of the settings and the ease of cleaning (with a dishwasher-safe crock) are frequently mentioned positives. Its capacity to hold substantial quantities of food makes it ideal for meal prepping or serving at small gatherings. A notable advantage for some is the absence of digital displays or controls, emphasizing the cooker’s straightforwardness.
Despite its mostly positive reception, some users have experienced minor inconveniences, such as fewer temperature settings compared to other models or the absence of certain features like a delayed start function. Nevertheless, the cooker’s reliability over extended use is often highlighted, with users successfully preparing various dishes from chilis to roasts.
