Best 6-quart electric multi-cookers under $40

Top pick: the Haysky 16-in-1 6QT. It's the most capable 6-quart cooker here — digital display, non-stick pot, sixteen preset functions — and it has the strongest track record of the budget models, with a solid rating across more than a hundred reviews. Best for anyone who wants one pot to do pressure cooking, slow cooking, rice, yogurt and more.

Who the others suit:

• Simenmax 6qt — the simplest, most conventional pressure cooker; good if you just want to press a button and walk away.
• Elite Black 6qt — a plain, no-frills cooker for basic pressure and slow cooking.
• Dark Gray 6 Qt multi-cooker — a middle-of-the-road option if the Haysky's extras feel like overkill.

All are 6-quart and within your cap; watch shipping, which can add a lot on some listings.