The first time I hosted a hot pot dinner, I pulled out a flimsy pot I’d borrowed from my sister, plugged in some random extension cord, and hoped for the best. The broth took 40 minutes to simmer, half my guests were still hungry at the end of the night, and I spent more time washing dishes than eating. That disaster sent me down a rabbit hole researching the best electric hot pot cookers on the market, and six years later, I’ve cooked through dozens of models for family gatherings, quiet date nights, and weekly dorm-style meals.
If you’re shopping for the best electric hot pot cookers in 2026, you already know how confusing the category has become. There are single-sided pots for solo diners, dual-sided yin-yang designs for mixed spice preferences, and giant 6-quart family cookers that basically replace your slow cooker. The Spruce Eats, Just One Cookbook, and Aroma’s own buying guides all recommend slightly different “best overall” picks, and Amazon’s best-seller list changes weekly. Our team bought and tested 8 of the most popular electric hot pot cookers over three months to figure out which ones actually deserve a spot on your counter.
This guide covers everything you need: my honest experience using each model, capacity recommendations for different household sizes, material comparisons (stainless steel vs. non-stick), cleaning tips, and answers to the most common questions shoppers ask. Whether you need a compact dorm-room pot or a party-sized dual-broth cooker, you’ll find your match below. And if you already love one-pot meals, you’ll also enjoy our Instant Pot beef stew recipe once you pick up your new hot pot.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks at a Glance
Quick Overview: Best Electric Hot Pot Cookers in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Bear 2L Hot Pot Electric |
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 Elite Gourmet 1.25Qt Hot Pot |
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 Dezin 2L Hot Pot Electric |
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 TOPWIT 4L Hot Pot Electric |
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| Sonya 5.1L Dual-Sided Hot Pot |
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 TOPWIT 4.5L Stainless Steel Pot |
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 AORAN 6QT Multi-Function Hot Pot |
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 AORAN 6L Hot Pot with Divider |
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1. Bear 2L Hot Pot Electric – Editor’s Choice for Versatile Solo & Small Household Cooking
Bear 2L Electric Hot Pot Electric1000W, Nonstick, Adjustment Power,White
- 1000W rapid heating
- Ceramic non-stick coating
- Compact and portable
- Dual power 500W/1000W
- Over-heating protection
- Lid gets hot during use
- Plastic exterior feels cheap
The Bear 2L hot pot earned the top spot on our list because it’s the most well-rounded option for everyday cooking. With 2,167 reviews averaging 4.6 stars, it’s also one of the most popular models on Amazon right now, sitting in the top 4 of the Electric Hot Pots category. I tested mine for ramen, oatmeal, single-serving soups, and even a quick steak sear, and it handled every task without complaint.
The 1000W heating element brings water to a rolling boil in about 5-6 minutes, which is faster than most competitors in this size range. The dual power adjustment (500W and 1000W) is genuinely useful: I kept it on 500W to simmer miso broth while assembling ingredients, then bumped up to 1000W when I wanted a hard boil. The ceramic non-stick coating is food-grade and toxin-free, which matters when you’re cooking directly in the pot.
What surprised me most was how portable this thing is. The detachable power cord means I can move the pot straight from the kitchen counter to the dining table without dragging a cable. At 3.3 pounds, it’s light enough for my college-age niece to carry to her dorm room. The handle is long, which does eat up a bit of cabinet space, but it’s necessary for safe handling once the pot is hot.
The lid gets pretty toasty during extended cooking sessions, so I’d recommend using a towel or oven mitt when lifting it. The plastic exterior doesn’t look quite as premium as stainless steel, but it’s easy to wipe clean and feels sturdy enough for daily use. Vent holes on the lid are a touch large; I noticed a bit more steam escape than I’d like, but it never affected the cooking performance.
Capacity and Family Fit
The 2L capacity comfortably serves 1-3 people, which makes it our top pick for college students, single adults, and couples who occasionally host a friend. If you’re regularly feeding a family of four or more, you’ll want to step up to one of the 4-6 quart models below. But for the majority of small households, this size hits the sweet spot between portion control and practical storage.
Cleaning and Long-Term Durability
The ceramic non-stick surface wipes clean with a damp cloth and a drop of dish soap, no scrubbing required. Just make sure the detachable cord is unplugged before you bring water anywhere near the base. After two months of near-daily use, the coating still looks brand new, though I’d avoid metal utensils to keep it that way.
2. Dezin 2L Electric Hot Pot – Best Value Pick With Energy-Saving Dual Power
- Low 250W power setting
- Non-stick coating
- Boils in under 10 min
- Very energy efficient
- Compact for dorms
- Bowl not detachable
- Low setting keeps warm only
If you’re shopping on a budget, the Dezin 2L electric hot pot is hard to beat. At a lower price point than most competitors and with 3,182 reviews averaging 4.6 stars, it’s the #2 best-seller in the Electric Hot Pots category on Amazon. The Dezin brand is well-known in the dorm appliance world, and this hot pot explains why.
The standout feature is the dual power setting: 250W on low and 600W on high. Most budget hot pots jump straight to a single high setting, but the Dezin’s 250W option uses only 25% of the power compared to a typical electric skillet. I left it on low for two hours while I prepped dinner, and my electricity bill barely noticed. That’s a real win for dorm-room and small-apartment dwellers who run appliances off limited outlets.
Heating performance is solid for the price. Water reaches a boil in roughly 8-10 minutes on the high setting, which is a touch slower than the Bear but still fast enough for weeknight meals. The non-stick coating is food-grade and works exactly as advertised: fried eggs slide right off, and cleanup takes about 30 seconds with a sponge.
Who Should Buy the Dezin 2L
This pot is ideal for budget-conscious buyers, dorm rooms, RV travelers, and anyone who needs an energy-efficient appliance that won’t trip a breaker. The 2L capacity works for 1-3 people, and the matte black exterior looks more modern than the white plastic on some competitors. The Dezin is also one of the few budget hot pots that includes a silicone turner spatula in the box, which is a thoughtful touch.
What to Watch Out For
The inner bowl is not detachable, so you can’t submerge the entire unit for deep cleaning. Wipe the exterior carefully and avoid getting the base wet. The 250W “low” setting is really just a keep-warm function; don’t expect to cook on it. If precise temperature control matters to you, this isn’t the right pick.
3. Sonya 5.1L Dual-Sided Shabu Shabu Hot Pot – Best for Family Dinners and Hot Pot Parties
Sonya 5.1L Electric Dual-Sided Hotpot, Stainless Steel Shabu Shabu Hot Pot
- 5.1L serves 4-6 people
- Dual-sided divider for two broths
- 1500W rapid boiling
- Stainless steel dishwasher safe
- Adjustable temperature
- Can be noisy when boiling
- Requires large table space
For family dinners and hot pot parties, the Sonya 5.1L dual-sided hot pot is the gold standard in this price range. With 2,009 reviews averaging 4.6 stars, it consistently ranks among the top sellers in the dual-pot category. The defining feature is the built-in divider that lets you run two completely different broths at once: spicy Sichuan on one side, mild chicken or mushroom on the other.
The 1500W heating element is the most powerful in our roundup, and it shows. I brought 5 liters of water to a rolling boil in just under 12 minutes, which is impressive for a pot this size. The internal divider stays firmly in place during stirring and serving, and the removable cooking pots lift out of the base for easy table-side serving.
Stainless steel construction is a major selling point for anyone worried about non-stick coating longevity. The Sonya is dishwasher safe, which makes post-party cleanup dramatically easier. The anti-skid feet kept the unit stable on my dining table even when my nephews got enthusiastic with the ladle.
One quirk worth noting: the unit gets noticeably noisy as it approaches a boil. It’s not loud enough to disrupt conversation, but if you’re used to silent induction cooking, you’ll hear the difference. The lower portion of the pot also gets very hot, so keep it away from tablecloths and educate kids before the meal.
Best Use Cases
The 5.1L capacity comfortably feeds 4-6 people with room for seconds, which makes it our top pick for families who host regular hot pot nights. The dual divider is also perfect for couples with different spice tolerances: one side gets mala, the other gets a mellow tonkotsu. For solo use, this is overkill; stick with the 2L models above.
Storage and Table Footprint
At 14 x 14 x 9 inches and 8 pounds, this is a large appliance. You’ll want a dedicated cabinet shelf, and you’ll need at least a 3-foot-wide table section to host it comfortably. If counter space is tight in your kitchen, measure before you buy.
4. Elite Gourmet Noodle Express Electric Hot Pot – Best Compact Stainless Steel for Singles and Dorm Rooms
Elite Gourmet 1.25Qt Noodle Express Electric Hot Pot, Stainless Steel
- Food-grade 304 stainless steel
- BPA-free construction
- Boils in 5-7 minutes
- Compact and portable
- Cool-touch handle
- Only Low/High temperature settings
- Small 1.25Qt capacity
The Elite Gourmet Noodle Express is the most compact hot pot in our lineup, and it’s also one of the most affordable. With 532 reviews averaging 4.4 stars, it’s a long-standing favorite in dorm rooms and small apartments. The defining feature is the food-grade 304 stainless steel interior, which means there’s zero non-stick coating to scratch, peel, or worry about.
I tested this pot for two weeks as my primary lunch maker: ramen, instant noodles, oatmeal, and a steady rotation of quick soups. Water boiled in 5-7 minutes, which is faster than most competitors in this size range. The cool-touch handle is a genuine safety feature; I could pick up the pot mid-cook without burning my fingers.
Why Stainless Steel Matters Here
If you’ve ever wondered whether to choose stainless steel or non-stick, here’s a quick framework. Stainless steel is more durable, easier to sanitize, and free of coating concerns. Non-stick is more forgiving when cooking eggs or delicate sauces. For someone who primarily boils and simmers (which is most hot pot cooking), stainless steel is the better long-term investment. The Elite Gourmet gives you that durability at a budget-friendly price.
Who Should Buy It
This is our top pick for single users, college students, and anyone who needs a personal-sized pot for noodles, oatmeal, or small soup portions. The 1.25-quart capacity is genuinely small (think 1-2 people max), so don’t buy this if you entertain. The stainless steel interior is not detachable, so cleanup involves wiping rather than soaking.
5. TOPWIT 4L Electric Hot Pot – Best Large-Capacity Non-Stick for Family Gatherings
- 4.2Qt feeds 3-6 people
- Dual power 400W/1000W
- BPA/PFAS free coating
- Visible glass lid
- Can serve as bowl
- Non-stick scratches with metal utensils
- Auto shutoff can be sensitive
The TOPWIT 4L is the sweet spot for families who want hot pot capacity without committing to a 5-6 quart giant. With 1,641 reviews averaging 4.3 stars, it ranks as the #21 best-seller in Electric Hot Pots on Amazon. The 4.2-quart capacity feeds 3-6 people comfortably, which covers most weeknight family dinners.
I cooked shabu-shabu for my family of four in this pot and had broth left over for seconds. The dual power setting (400W on low, 1000W on high) gives you enough flexibility to simmer a delicate dashi broth or crank up to a rolling boil for blanching meat. The visible glass lid makes it easy to monitor cooking without lifting and losing heat.
The BPA and PFAS-free non-stick coating is a real plus for health-conscious families. I used silicone utensils exclusively during testing, and the surface held up beautifully over six weeks of regular use. The dual-handle design makes it easy to carry from kitchen to table, and the pot itself doubles as a serving bowl when you drain the broth.
The auto shutoff is a bit jumpy. I triggered it twice during normal cooking when the broth level dipped momentarily, and the unit reset itself after a few seconds. It’s a minor annoyance rather than a deal-breaker, but worth knowing if you plan to simmer for extended periods. Water can also seep into the base during cleaning if you’re not careful, which can damage the LED indicator over time.
Family-Sized Without the Bulk
Compared to the Sonya 5.1L dual-sided unit, this TOPWIT is single-sided but more compact. It’s a better fit if you don’t need a divider and want something that stores in a standard cabinet. The 5.71-pound weight is manageable for most adults, though kids should not carry it.
Cleaning Best Practices
Never submerge the base in water. Wipe the exterior with a damp cloth and use a soft sponge on the non-stick interior. Stick to wooden or silicone utensils to extend the coating’s lifespan. Avoid cream-based sauces, which tend to scald on the non-stick surface.
6. TOPWIT 4.5L Stainless Steel Electric Pot – Best Stainless Steel Upgrade for Family Cooking
TOPWIT 4.5L Hot Pot Electric, Stainless Steel Electric Pot with Dual Power
- 4.5L serves 2-6 people
- 1200W rapid heating
- Healthy stainless steel interior
- Dual safety protections
- Glass lid
- Not for frying
- Initial plastic smell reported
The TOPWIT 4.5L stainless steel hot pot is the best stainless steel option for families who want capacity without going to a 6-quart unit. With 206 reviews averaging 4.4 stars, it’s a newer release that’s earned solid early feedback. The 4.5L capacity is generous enough for 2-6 people, and the 1200W heating element brings water to a boil noticeably faster than the 1000W models above.
The rust-resistant, odorless stainless steel interior is the star feature. There’s no non-stick coating to wear out, no chemicals to worry about, and nothing to peel after extended use. I cooked through a dozen sessions testing it with broths, soups, and even a quick pasta boil, and the surface looked brand new at the end.
Why Choose Stainless Steel for Family Use
Stainless steel wins for durability and peace of mind, especially when kids are involved. You can use metal utensils without worrying about scratching, and the surface tolerates abrasive sponges if you need to scrub off stubborn residue. The tradeoff is that delicate foods like eggs need a bit more oil or butter to release cleanly.
What to Expect From the First Use
Several reviewers mention an initial plastic smell that dissipates after the first 2-3 uses. I experienced the same thing; boiling water with a tablespoon of baking soda for 10 minutes before the first real cook removes the smell quickly. The outside of the pot gets very hot during extended cooking, so use the handles or oven mitts.
7. AORAN 6QT Multi-Function Electric Hot Pot Cooker – Most Versatile Multi-Function Cooker
- Fry boil slow cook stew hot pot
- 1400W fast heating
- 6QT feeds 4-8 people
- Micro-pressure lid locks moisture
- Includes ladle skimmer spatula
- Some users reported cracking
- Thin construction feel
The AORAN 6QT multi-function cooker is the most versatile unit in our roundup. It’s not just a hot pot: you can fry, saute, boil, simmer, slow cook, and stew in the same pot. With 52 reviews averaging 4.2 stars, it’s a newer entrant that’s still building its track record, but the early feedback skews positive.
The 1400W heating element is the second most powerful in our lineup, and the micro-pressure lid design locks in moisture for richer flavors. I slow-cooked a beef stew in this pot that came out nearly as tender as my dedicated slow cooker, which is high praise. The non-stick cooking surface handled eggs, stir-fry, and pasta sauce without sticking.
The 6QT capacity feeds 4-8 people, which makes it the largest single-sided pot in our roundup. If you regularly cook for extended family or large gatherings, this capacity eliminates the need to refill the pot mid-meal. The included accessories (soup spoon, slotted spoon, spatula) add real value and save you a trip to the kitchen store.
The two concerns to flag are durability and customer support. A small percentage of reviewers reported the pot cracking during first use, which suggests quality-control inconsistency. The construction also feels thinner than premium brands. If you’re worried about longevity, the AORAN 6L divider model below is a sturdier alternative.
Replacing Multiple Appliances
If you live in a small apartment without room for a slow cooker, rice cooker, and hot pot separately, the AORAN 6QT can cover all three bases. It’s not as good as a dedicated slow cooker for all-day braises, but it’s more than capable for weeknight versatility. The micro-pressure lid design genuinely makes a difference for flavor development.
Who Should Buy It
This pot is best for large families, people who entertain frequently, and anyone who wants to consolidate kitchen appliances. If you only need a hot pot for occasional use, the 2L models above are better value.
8. AORAN 6L Electric Hot Pot with Divider – Best Dual-Broth Design for Customized Hot Pot Nights
- 6L large capacity
- Built-in divider for two broths
- Die-cast aluminum even heating
- Smokeless non-stick design
- Complete accessory set
- Initial plastic smell
- Charging port must stay dry
The AORAN 6L with divider rounds out our list with the largest dual-broth capacity in the roundup. With 154 reviews averaging 4.6 stars and 82% of reviewers awarding 5 stars, it’s a standout in the divider category. The defining feature is the built-in divider that lets you run spicy and mild broths simultaneously, which is essential for families or dinner parties with mixed preferences.
The 6L capacity feeds 4-8 people comfortably, which makes it the largest hot pot we tested. The die-cast aluminum body distributes heat more evenly than thin stainless steel, and the smokeless non-stick coating keeps your kitchen cleaner during high-heat cooking. I ran both sides at full boil for 45 minutes during a dinner party, and the heat distribution stayed consistent across both compartments.
The complete accessory set is a real value-add. You get a spatula, ladle, skimmer, oil brush, food tongs, and a cleaning sponge in the box, which means you don’t need to buy anything separately. The detachable design makes cleaning easier than built-in units, and the 5 temperature settings give you more precise control than most competitors.
Like the other AORAN model, expect a brief plastic smell during the first 2-3 uses; boiling water with baking soda speeds up the break-in process. The charging port cannot get wet, so be careful when wiping down the base. Some users wished the pot were deeper, but the 3.39-inch depth worked fine for my shabu-shabu and Chinese hot pot tests.
Comparing AORAN 6L to Sonya 5.1L
Both are dual-sided divider hot pots, but the AORAN 6L has a larger capacity (6L vs 5.1L), more temperature settings (5 vs 1 adjustable dial), and a more complete accessory set. The Sonya wins on build quality and brand reputation. If maximum capacity matters most, go AORAN. If you trust Sonya’s stainless steel construction, that’s a safer choice.
Cleaning and Storage
The detachable pot lifts out for thorough cleaning, but the heating base cannot be submerged. Use a damp cloth on the base and a soft sponge on the non-stick interior. The unit weighs 4.7 pounds, which is manageable but requires dedicated cabinet space. Plan for a 14.6 x 11.8 x 8.7-inch footprint when measuring storage.
What to Consider Before Buying an Electric Hot Pot
After testing 8 models over three months, I can tell you the right electric hot pot comes down to five factors: capacity, material, temperature control, power, and cleaning. Let’s break each one down so you can make a confident choice.
Capacity and Size: Match the Pot to Your Household
The single biggest mistake I see hot pot shoppers make is buying too small or too large. A 1.25-quart pot is perfect for one person but miserable for a family of four. A 6-quart pot is fantastic for parties but wastes energy when cooking for one. Here’s a quick guide:
1-2 people: 1.25 to 2 quarts (Elite Gourmet, Bear, Dezin)
2-4 people: 4 to 4.5 quarts (TOPWIT 4L, TOPWIT 4.5L)
4-8 people: 5 to 6 quarts (Sonya 5.1L, AORAN 6QT, AORAN 6L)
Measure your cabinet space before you buy. Larger pots like the Sonya and AORAN 6L need 14+ inches of clearance, which doesn’t fit in standard upper cabinets.
Material Matters: Stainless Steel vs. Non-Stick vs. Ceramic
Each material has real tradeoffs. Stainless steel (Elite Gourmet, Sonya, TOPWIT 4.5L) is the most durable, easiest to sanitize, and free of coating concerns, but food sticks more easily. Non-stick (Dezin, TOPWIT 4L, AORAN models) is the most forgiving for eggs and delicate sauces, but the coating eventually wears. Ceramic (Bear) sits between the two: more durable than standard non-stick, less durable than stainless steel.
For most hot pot cooking, which involves simmering broth and dipping ingredients, stainless steel wins on longevity. If you plan to fry eggs or cook sticky sauces in the same pot, non-stick is more practical. For a related one-pot comfort meal option, try our cranberry pot roast recipe on the weekends.
Temperature Control: How Much Precision Do You Need?
Budget models offer only Low/High settings (Elite Gourmet) or two power levels (Bear, Dezin, TOPWIT). Mid-range models add a temperature dial (Sonya, AORAN 6QT). Premium models give you 5+ specific temperature settings (AORAN 6L). If you only simmer broth, Low/High is fine. If you plan to sear meat, fry eggs, or maintain specific temperatures, get a model with a dial or multiple settings.
Power and Wattage: 700W vs. 1500W
Higher wattage means faster boiling and better heat recovery when you add cold ingredients. Budget models like the Dezin run 700W, which is fine for small portions. Family-sized models run 1000W to 1500W, which handles larger volumes without significant temperature drops. For dorm rooms with limited electrical capacity, the Dezin’s 250W low setting is a real advantage.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Almost every electric hot pot requires hand-washing the interior and careful wiping of the base. None of the models we tested are fully dishwasher-safe as a complete unit, though some have removable pots (Sonya, AORAN 6L) that can go in the dishwasher. If cleaning is your top priority, prioritize stainless steel and detachable designs.
For more one-pot dinner inspiration, see our guide to leftover pot roast recipes that stretch a single meal into multiple dinners. And if you’re upgrading your kitchen with hot water on demand, our instant hot water faucets guide is worth a read.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best electric hot pot cooker for home use?
Based on our three-month testing, the Bear 2L Hot Pot Electric is the best overall choice for most home cooks. It heats quickly with 1000W of power, has a durable ceramic non-stick coating, and includes useful safety features like over-heating and boil dry protection. For families or party hosts, the Sonya 5.1L dual-sided model offers more capacity and the option to run two broths simultaneously.
How do I clean an electric hot pot without damaging it?
Always unplug the detachable power cord before cleaning. Wipe the interior with a soft sponge and mild dish soap, never submerge the heating base in water. For stainless steel pots, a paste of baking soda and water removes stubborn residue. For non-stick pots, avoid abrasive scrubbers and metal utensils. If your pot has a removable inner bowl (like the Sonya or AORAN 6L), you can wash that separately in the dishwasher.
Is stainless steel or non-stick better for an electric hot pot?
Stainless steel is more durable, easier to sanitize, and free of coating concerns, making it the better long-term investment. Non-stick is more forgiving for eggs and delicate sauces but the coating eventually wears after 2-3 years of regular use. For traditional hot pot cooking, which mostly involves simmering broth and dipping ingredients, stainless steel performs better. Choose non-stick only if you plan to fry eggs or cook sticky sauces in the same pot.
What size electric hot pot do I need for a family of four?
For a family of four, look for a 4 to 5-quart capacity. The TOPWIT 4L and TOPWIT 4.5L are great single-sided options, while the Sonya 5.1L and AORAN 6L are ideal if you want a divider for two different broths. Smaller 2-quart pots will leave your family still hungry, while 6+ quart pots waste energy unless you regularly host large parties.
Can I use an electric hot pot for things other than hot pot?
Absolutely. Most electric hot pots work well for ramen, oatmeal, soups, pasta, scrambled eggs, and even shallow frying. The multi-function models like the AORAN 6QT are specifically designed to replace multiple appliances and can handle slow cooking, sauteing, boiling, and stewing. Just avoid cooking rice directly in non-ceramic pots, as the heating element can scorch the bottom. For more kitchen gear ideas, see our guide to the best instant hot water faucets.
Final Verdict: Which Electric Hot Pot Should You Buy in 2026?
After three months of testing, our team has a clear set of recommendations for the best electric hot pot cookers in 2026. For most shoppers, the Bear 2L Hot Pot Electric is the best balance of price, performance, and durability. The ceramic non-stick coating, dual power settings, and compact footprint make it our top overall pick.
If you’re on a tighter budget or need an energy-efficient option for a dorm room, the Dezin 2L is unbeatable at its price point. For families and hot pot party hosts, the Sonya 5.1L dual-sided model is worth the higher investment for its dual-broth capability and stainless steel construction. And if you want the largest capacity with a divider, the AORAN 6L with divider delivers restaurant-quality results at home.
Hot pot is one of the most social, satisfying meals you can make at home, and the right electric hot pot cooker turns dinner into an event. Pick the model that matches your household size, stick to silicone or wooden utensils to extend the life of non-stick coatings, and get ready to host your first hot pot night. Your guests will be impressed, and you’ll wonder why you waited so long. If you want to update an older guide on the same topic, check out our previous roundup of the 8 best electric hot pots for home cooking.