logo
Follow Us

Indoor Security Camera Buying Guide: Essential Tips to Choose the Right One

By Srishty Kumari | Updated Sep 10, 2024, 6:32 PM IST
Share

Indoor cameras are essential nowadays to keep your home or office safe. They are crucial for monitoring and protecting indoor spaces from theft, vandalism, and other security threats. With technological advancements, today's market offers various options with unique features and benefits. This buying guide for CCTV cameras will help you navigate these choices and select the best indoor security camera.

Indoor Security Camera Buying Guide Essential Tips to Choose the Right One
Indoor Security Camera Buying Guide: Essential Tips to Choose the Right One
In the modern world where safety and security are paramount, indoor cameras have become essential for safeguarding homes and businesses. Indoor CCTV cameras are crucial for monitoring and protecting indoor spaces from theft, vandalism, and other security threats. Unlike outdoor cameras, which need to withstand various weather conditions, home security cameras focus on providing clear and reliable surveillance within a controlled environment.

With many options available, selecting the right CCTV camera can be overwhelming. This indoor security camera buying guide aims to simplify the decision-making process by exploring critical factors to consider when purchasing an indoor camera, including types of cameras, resolution, features, connectivity, and installation. Of many shapes, Dome-shaped home security cameras are the most popular choice. By understanding these elements, you can make an informed choice that meets your security needs and budget.

Indoor Security Camera Buying Guide: Types of Cameras

1. Wired Cameras: Wired indoor security cameras connect to a recording device or network through physical cables. They offer reliable, consistent video feeds without the need for battery changes. While installation may be more involved due to cabling, wired cameras are less susceptible to interference and generally provide stable performance.

2. Wireless Cameras: Wireless security cameras transmit video signals via Wi-Fi, offering flexible placement without cables. These home security cameras are easy to install and relocate, but their performance depends on Wi-Fi signal strength and can be affected by network interference. They are ideal for areas where wiring is impractical.

3. BatteryPowered Cameras: Battery-powered cameras operate independently of electrical outlets, providing flexible placement anywhere. They are convenient for areas without power access but require regular battery maintenance or recharging. While offering installation freedom, their effectiveness can be limited by battery life and the need for periodic replacements.

4. Smart Cameras: Smart cameras integrate with smart home systems, offering advanced features like remote control and voice commands. They provide enhanced functionality and connectivity, allowing seamless interaction with other smart devices. Typically more expensive, they also require careful attention to software security and updates.

5. PanandTilt Cameras: Pan-and-tilt cameras offer adjustable viewing angles by rotating horizontally and vertically. This feature provides comprehensive coverage and the ability to remotely monitor large areas or specific points. They generally come at a higher cost and require precise setup to ensure optimal movement and performance.

Indoor Security Camera Buying Guide: Key Features to Consider

1. Resolution:
  • HD (720p): Basic quality, sufficient for general monitoring, but lacks detail.
  • Full HD (1080p): Offers more transparent and more detailed images, suitable for most indoor environments.
  • 4K (Ultra HD): Provides high-definition footage with exceptional detail, ideal for large areas or detailed monitoring.

2. Field of View:
  • Wide Angle: A CCTV camera's wider field of view covers a larger area, reducing the number of cameras needed.
  • Narrow-Angle: Provides a more focused view, which can be helpful in specific monitoring areas.

3. Night Vision:
  • IR LEDs: Provide home security cameras with clear footage in low light or complete darkness.
  • LowLight Sensitivity: Cameras with advanced sensors can produce clearer images in dimly lit conditions.

4. Motion Detection:
  • Basic Motion Detection: Triggers recording or alerts based on movement.
  • Advanced Motion Detection: This can differentiate between types of movement and reduce false alarms.

5. TwoWay Audio:
It enables communication through the camera, allowing you to listen and speak to individuals via its built-in microphone and speaker. TwoWay Audio is also useful for interacting with people or pets remotely.

6. Storage Options:
  • Local Storage: It uses SD cards or hard drives to store footage. It offers control over data but may require physical access.
  • Cloud Storage: Stores footage online, allowing access from anywhere, though it typically involves a subscription fee.

7. Integration and Compatibility:
  • Smart Home Integration: Ensure the camera is compatible with smart home systems like Alexa or Google Assistant for seamless control.
  • App Support: A dedicated app can enhance the functionality by providing remote access and notifications.

Indoor Security Camera Buying Guide: Connectivity and Installation

1. WiFi and Ethernet:
  • WiFi: This provides wireless connectivity but requires a stable network to function optimally. It is ideal for home security cameras in locations without easy access to wired connections.
  • Ethernet: This provides a stable connection and is less susceptible to interference. It is preferred for areas where network reliability is crucial.

2. Power Source:
  • AC Power: Requires a constant power source suitable for CCTV cameras in fixed locations.
  • BatteryPowered: Offers flexibility in placement but requires maintenance to ensure the batteries remain charged.

3. Installation:
  • DIY Installation: Many cameras come with easy-to-follow instructions for self-installation.
  • Professional Installation: Consider hiring a professional if you need extensive setup or more time to get comfortable with the installation process.

Indoor Security Camera Buying Guide: Budget

  • EntryLevel: Basic models with lower resolution and fewer features are generally more affordable.
  • MidRange: Offers better resolution, additional features like night vision and motion detection, and greater reliability.
  • High-end: This category includes advanced features such as 4K resolution, pan and tilt capabilities, and smart home integration. Generally, these models have a higher price tag but offer superior performance and functionality.

Indoor Security Camera Buying Guide: Privacy and Security

  • Data Encryption: Ensure the home security cameras support encryption to protect your footage from unauthorised access.
  • Secure Passwords: Change default passwords and use strong, unique passwords to enhance security.
  • Regular Updates: Keep the CCTV camera’s firmware updated to protect against vulnerabilities and ensure optimal performance.

FAQs
1. How do you choose an indoor camera?
To choose an indoor camera that is clear, consider factors like resolution, field of view, and night vision. Evaluate connectivity options (Wi-Fi or wired), storage solutions (local or cloud), and additional features like motion detection or two-way audio. Ensure compatibility with smart home systems and check for reliable security measures.

2. Where should I put my indoor security camera?
Place your indoor security camera in high-traffic areas like entryways, living rooms, and hallways for optimal monitoring. Ensure the CCTV camera covers key points such as entrances and exits. Avoid positioning near windows to prevent glare, and mount it at an angle to capture wide views. Ensure the camera is out of reach to prevent tampering.

3. How many indoor security cameras do I need?
The number of home security cameras you need depends on your home's layout and security requirements. Covering key areas such as entryways, main living spaces, and high-traffic zones is essential. Assess your home’s size and vulnerability points to determine the optimal number for comprehensive coverage.

Disclaimer: Times Shopping Guide is committed to bringing you the latest products from the best brands. Our selection is based on market research and positive consumer feedback. Times Shopping Guide is also a part of an affiliate partnership. In line with this, we may receive a portion of the revenue from your purchases. Please note that the product prices are subject to change based on the retailer's deals.




Next Article

Printer Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Printer for You

By Srishty Kumari | Updated Sep 4, 2024, 7:39 PM IST
Share

In today's digital age, printers remain essential tools for personal and professional tasks. Whether you need to print important documents, high-quality photos, or creative projects, selecting the right printer is crucial. With various printer types and features, making an informed decision can save you time, money, and frustration. This printer buying guide provides a detailed overview of choosing the best printer for your needs, considering factors such as printer type, print quality, connectivity, and ongoing costs.

Printer Buying Guide How to Choose the Best Printer for You
Printer Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Printer for You
Choosing the best printer for you can be daunting with the many options available. This comprehensive printer buying guide helps you navigate decision-making by breaking down essential factors such as printer types, features, and costs. It provides insights into how to match a printer to your specific needs, whether for home, office, or creative projects. Key topics include understanding printer types (inkjet vs. laser), evaluating print quality, assessing connectivity options, and considering ongoing costs like ink and paper.

By the end, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge to select the best printer for home or office that effectively meets your requirements and budget.

Printer Buying Guide: Types of Printer

There are three main types of printers—laser, inkjet, and all-in-one printers—available in the market to make your work easier. Apart from these types, the best mini photo printers are also available to provide you with portability.

1. Inkjet Printers: Inkjet printers are versatile and well-suited for home use. They use liquid ink sprayed through tiny nozzles onto the paper, which allows them to produce high-quality color prints. This makes them ideal for photo printing and documents with rich color graphics.

2. Laser Printers: A laser printer is a type of printer that uses toner powder and a laser beam to produce sharp text and graphics on paper. It is typically faster and more efficient for high-volume printing tasks, making it a popular office choice.

3. All-in-One Printers: All-in-one printers, also known as multifunction printers (MFPs), combine printing, scanning, copying, and sometimes faxing functions into a single device. They are convenient for users who need multiple tasks from one machine.

Printer Buying Guide: Evaluating Print Quality

Print quality is a crucial factor when choosing the best printer for home or office use. This includes the printer's resolution, measured in dots per inch (DPI), which affects the prints' sharpness and detail.

For Text: Laser printers generally offer superior text quality with crisp and clear characters, which is ideal for professional documents and reports.
For Photos: Inkjet printers excel at photo printing, providing vibrant colors and detailed images. For optimal results, look for printers with higher DPI and those that support photo paper.
For Graphics: If your primary need is to print graphics or marketing materials, consider a printer that offers high resolution and color accuracy.

Printer Buying Guide: Connectivity Options

Modern printers come with various connectivity options that can impact ease of use and integration with your devices.

1. Wired Connections:
USB: It is standard for most printers and offers a direct and reliable connection to a computer. It is ideal for single-device use.

2. Wireless Connections
Wi-Fi: This allows for printing from multiple devices over a wireless network. It is suitable for home and office environments where multiple users need access.
Bluetooth: Offers direct wireless printing from smartphones and tablets without a network.

3. Cloud Printing:
Google Cloud Print: Enables printing from anywhere using a cloud-based service. Useful for remote printing needs.
Apple AirPrint: Allows iOS device users to print directly from their devices without additional software.

Printer Buying Guide: Ongoing Costs

When choosing the best printer, it's essential to consider the cost of consumables such as ink toner and paper.

1. Ink Costs: Inkjet printers have higher ongoing costs due to the price of ink cartridges. Some models offer high-yield cartridges or ink subscription services to reduce expenses.

2. Toner Costs: Laser printers typically have lower ongoing costs due to the longer-lasting toner cartridges. However, color laser printers can still be expensive to maintain.

3. Paper Costs: Consider the types of paper your printer supports (e.g., glossy, matte, speciality papers) and their associated costs. Ensure the printer can handle the paper types you intend to use.

Printer Buying Guide: Additional Features

Consider additional features that may enhance the functionality of your printer:

1. Automatic Document Feeder (ADF): Useful for scanning or copying multiple pages quickly without manual intervention.

2. Duplex Printing: Allows automatic double-sided printing, saving paper and reducing manual handling.

3. Touchscreen Interfaces: User-friendly screens that make navigation and setup easier, especially for multifunction printers.

4. Print Speed: For high-volume printing needs, consider printers with higher print speeds to increase efficiency.

Printer Buying Guide: Brand and Model Considerations

Reputable brands like HP, Canon, Epson, Brother, and Xerox offer a range of reliable printers with varying features and price points. Researching specific models and reading user reviews can provide insight into performance, reliability, and customer satisfaction.

Printer Buying Guide: Budget and Cost

Setting a budget helps narrow down your options. Determine what features are essential for your needs and how much you’re willing to spend to get the best printer for home use or office use. Remember to factor in the cost of consumables and potential maintenance.

Printer Buying Guide: Final Tips to Buy a Printer

1. Test Prints: Test print samples to evaluate print quality before purchasing.
2. Warranty and Support: Check the warranty and customer support options to ensure you have assistance if needed.
3. Future-Proofing: Consider future needs and whether the printer can adapt to changes in technology or your usage patterns.

Printer Buying Guide: How to Maintain Printer?

  • To maintain your printer, regularly clean it by dusting the exterior and using a soft cloth for the interior components.
  • Replace ink or toner cartridges as needed and ensure they are installed correctly.
  • Use high-quality paper to prevent paper jams and maintain print quality.
  • Run the printer’s built-in cleaning utility periodically to prevent clogs in the printhead.
  • Check for firmware updates to enhance performance and security.
  • Store the printer in a dust-free environment and handle it gently.
  • Regular maintenance will ensure reliable performance and extend the lifespan of your printer.

FAQs
1. How do I know what printer to buy?
Determining the best printer for home or office use based on requirements. Choose between inkjet for high-quality color prints and laser for fast, cost-effective text printing. Consider features like wireless connectivity and multifunction capabilities, and budget for ongoing costs. Match these factors to your specific requirements.

2. What are the 3 main factors to consider when buying a printer?
When buying a printer, consider print quality for your needs (documents vs. photos), the cost of consumables (ink or toner), and functionality (single vs. multifunction). Also, evaluate connectivity options (wired or wireless) and long-term maintenance costs to ensure the printer effectively meets your specific requirements.

3. Is inkjet or laser better?
Inkjet printers are better for high-quality color prints and photos, offering vibrant results. Laser printers excel in speed and cost-efficiency for text-heavy documents, providing crisp, sharp output. Choose inkjet for versatile color needs and laser for high-volume, text-focused printing. Your choice depends on your specific printing requirements.




Disclaimer: Times Shopping Guide is committed to bringing you the latest products from the best brands. Our selection is based on market research and positive consumer feedback. Times Shopping Guide is also a part of an affiliate partnership. In line with this, we may receive a portion of the revenue from your purchases. Please note that the product prices are subject to change based on the retailer's deals.




Next Article

Buying Guide for Laptop: How to Choose the Best Laptop for Your Needs

By Krishika Bhan | Updated Sep 24, 2024, 10:00 AM IST
Share

Ever found yourself needing to unwind after a busy weekend, with little desire to spend extra time on tech setups? A laptop could be just what you need. These versatile devices offer a range of features to streamline your work and entertainment, making them essential for both productivity and relaxation. Check out our buying guide to find the perfect laptop for your needs.

Buying Guide for Laptop How to Choose the Best Laptop for Your Needs

In today’s fast-paced world, a laptop is not a luxury. It’s a necessity for personal and professional use. Whether you're a student, a professional, or a casual user, selecting the right laptop can significantly impact your productivity and overall experience. This guide will help you understand the essential aspects of buying a laptop, including types, features, specifications, and what to consider when making an informed decision.



1. Understanding the Need for a Laptop
Before diving into the technical details, it's crucial to identify your needs and how a laptop fits into your lifestyle. Here are some common scenarios:

a. Students
A laptop is essential for students to research, write papers, and attend virtual classes. The right laptop should be lightweight, portable, and have enough processing power to handle educational software.

b. Professionals
Professionals often require laptops for data analysis, software development, graphic design, or video editing. These users need robust performance, high storage capacity, and good display quality.

c. Casual Users
Casual users might need a laptop for browsing the web, watching movies, or light office work. A basic model with standard features would usually suffice for these purposes.

2. Types of Laptops
Understanding the different types of laptops available will help you choose the one that best suits your needs. Each type offers unique features tailored for specific uses, from lightweight ultrabooks to powerful gaming laptops.

a. Ultrabooks
Ultrabooks are known for their slim, lightweight design and long battery life. They are ideal for users who prioritize portability and aesthetics. They typically come with solid-state drives (SSDs) for faster performance.

b. Gaming Laptops
Gaming laptops have high-end graphics cards, powerful processors, and advanced cooling systems to handle intensive games. They also have high-resolution displays and enhanced audio systems for an immersive experience.

c. Business Laptops
Business laptops focus on durability, security, and performance. They often feature fingerprint scanners, robust build quality, and extensive connectivity options.

d. 2-in-1 Laptops
2-in-1 laptops, or convertible laptops, can be used as traditional laptops and tablets. They are versatile and convenient for users who need a flexible device for various tasks.

e. Budget Laptops
Budget laptops are designed for basic tasks such as browsing, word processing, and streaming. They offer good value for money but may have limited processing power and features.

3. Key Features to Consider While Purchasing a Laptop
When selecting a laptop, several features and specifications should be considered to ensure it meets your needs. These include the processor's performance, which affects speed and efficiency; the amount of RAM, which determines how well the laptop handles multitasking; and the type of storage, which influences the speed and capacity for storing files.

Additionally, the display quality impacts your viewing experience, while battery life determines how long the laptop will last on a single charge. Ports and connectivity options are crucial for connecting peripherals, and the build quality and design affect the laptop’s durability and portability. Carefully evaluating these features will help you find a laptop that offers the best balance of performance, functionality, and value for your specific requirements.

a. Processor (CPU)
The processor is the brain of your laptop, affecting its overall performance. Common processors include:

  • Intel Core i3/i5/i7/i9: These range from essential to high-performance processors. An Intel Core i5 is usually a good balance between performance and price for most users.
  • AMD Ryzen: Ryzen processors are known for their multi-core solid performance, making them a good choice for multitasking and more demanding applications.

b. Memory (RAM)
RAM affects how smoothly your laptop handles multiple tasks:

  • 4GB RAM: Suitable for light use, like web browsing and word processing.
  • 8GB RAM: A good standard for moderate multitasking and general use.
  • 16GB RAM: Ideal for heavy multitasking, gaming, and professional applications like video editing.

c. Storage
Storage determines how much data you can keep on your laptop and impacts its speed:

  • HDD (Hard Disk Drive): Traditional storage offers more space at a lower cost but is slower than SSDs
  • SSD (Solid State Drive): Faster and more reliable, resulting in quicker boot times and better overall performance
  • Hybrid Drives: Combine HDD and SSD technology to balance speed and storage capacity

d. Display
The display affects your overall viewing experience:

  • Size: Laptops come in various sizes, typically 11 inches to 17 inches. Larger screens are better for multitasking and media consumption, while smaller screens are more portable.
  • Resolution: Higher resolutions like Full HD (1920x1080) or 4K (3840x2160) offer clearer and sharper images. Full HD is generally sufficient for most users, while 4K is beneficial for graphic-intensive tasks.
  • Panel Type: IPS panels provide better colour accuracy and wider viewing angles compared to TN panels, making them preferable for tasks requiring precise colour representation.

e. Battery Life
Consider how long the laptop’s battery lasts on a single charge:

  • 6-8 Hours: Standard for most laptops and adequate for work or study.
  • 10+ Hours: This is ideal if you need extended usage without frequent recharging. It is especially useful for travel or long classes.

f. Keyboard and Trackpad
Comfortable input methods are crucial for productivity:

  • Keyboard: If you often work in dim environments, look for good key travel, comfortable spacing, and backlighting
  • Trackpad: Ensure it’s responsive and supports multi-touch gestures for easy navigation

g. Ports and Connectivity
The availability of ports and connectivity options affects your ability to connect external devices:

  • USB Ports: Multiple USB ports, including USB 3.0 or USB-C, are useful for connecting peripherals.
  • HDMI: Useful for connecting to external monitors or projectors.
  • SD Card Reader: Convenient for transferring files from cameras or other devices.
  • Wi-Fi and Bluetooth: Ensure the laptop supports the latest standards for faster and more reliable connections.

h. Build Quality and Design
The laptop’s build affects its durability and overall user experience:

  • Material: Laptops made from metal or high-quality plastic are more durable than those made from cheaper materials
  • Weight and Thickness: Lighter and thinner laptops are more portable but may sacrifice performance or battery life

i. Operating System
The operating system impacts how you interact with the laptop:

  • Windows: Versatile and compatible with a wide range of software and peripherals.
  • macOS: Known for its sleek interface and integration with other Apple products.
  • Chrome OS: Simplified for users who rely on web-based applications and cloud storage.

4. Additional Considerations
a. Thermal Management
Good thermal management prevents overheating and ensures smooth performance. Look for laptops with effective cooling systems, such as multiple fans or heat pipes.

b. Audio Quality
Clear audio is essential for media consumption and video calls. Check for high-quality speakers and a good microphone for clear communication and enjoyable multimedia experiences.

c. Upgrade Options
Consider laptops that easily upgrade RAM, storage, or other components. This flexibility can extend the laptop’s lifespan and adapt to future needs.

d. Security Features
Enhanced security features protect your data:

1. Biometric Authentication:Fingerprint scanners or facial recognition for secure and easy login
2. TPM (Trusted Platform Module): Hardware-based encryption for data protection

e. Repair and Replacement Parts
Ensure that replacement parts and repair services are accessible. This can make a significant difference if you need repairs or upgrades

f. Software and Ecosystem
Evaluate the pre-installed software and its relevance to your needs. Also, consider how well the laptop integrates with other devices and services you use


Conclusion
Choosing the right laptop involves evaluating your needs, understanding key features, and setting a budget. You can find a laptop that fits seamlessly into your lifestyle by considering factors such as processor, memory, storage, display, and battery life. The right laptop will enhance your productivity and enjoyment for work, study, or leisure.
If you’re still not sure which laptop to choose, here is a list of some of the best laptops that are perfect for your needs:

  • HP Laptop 15s, AMD Ryzen 3 5300U, 15.6-inch (39.6 cm), FHD, 8GB DDR4, 512GB SSD, AMD Radeon Graphics, Thin & Light, Dual Speakers
  • Acer ALG 12th Gen Intel Core i5 Gaming Laptop
  • Dell [Smartchoice] 14 Thin & Light Laptop, Intel 12th Gen Core i5
  • ASUS Vivobook 15, Intel Core i3-1220P 12th Gen
  • HP Victus Gaming Laptop, 12th Gen Intel Core i5-12450H,4GB RTX 2050 GPU,15.6-inch

FAQs:
What should I consider when choosing a laptop for gaming?
For gaming, focus on a laptop with a powerful GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), a fast processor (like Intel Core i7 or AMD Ryzen 7), at least 16GB of RAM, and a high-refresh-rate display. Ensure it also has sound cooling systems to manage heat during extended gaming sessions.

How much RAM is ideal for everyday tasks?
8 GB of RAM is typically sufficient for most everyday tasks, such as browsing the web, streaming videos, and working on documents. However, if you frequently multitask or run more demanding applications, consider upgrading to 16GB for smoother performance.

What is the difference between SSD and HDD storage?
SSD (Solid State Drive) offers faster performance, quicker boot times, and better durability because it has no moving parts. HDD (Hard Disk Drive) provides more storage capacity at a lower cost but is slower and more prone to mechanical failure. For faster performance, choose a laptop with an SSD.

Disclaimer: Times Shopping Guide is committed to bringing you the latest products from the best brands. Our selection is based on market research and positive consumer feedback. Times Shopping Guide is also a part of an affiliate partnership. In line with this, we may receive a portion of the revenue from your purchases. Please note that the product prices are subject to change based on the retailer's deals.




Next Article

Buying Guide for Multi-Cooker: How to Make the Best Food for your Kitchen

By TSG Desk | Updated Jul 15, 2024, 12:08 PM IST
Share

Has it ever happened to you that after a busy weekend, all you want to do is relax and not spend extra time cooking? Multi-cookers are just what you’re looking for. Besides saving you some time, these appliances also offer you several other features, so you can use one appliance to make a variety of dishes. Here is a buying guide that will help you pick the perfect multi-cooker for your kitchen.

Buying Guide for Multi-Cooker How to Make the Best Food for your Kitchen
Cook In Minutes Buying Guide to Buy an Efficient Multi-Cooker
Multi-cookers have become quite popular in today’s world. In this fast-paced world we are living in, convenience is the key, and with multi-cookers, you can make almost anything. From cooking rice to making slow-cooked dishes, this appliance will let you do it all. These appliances can even pressure cook and air fry. Getting this product can easily help you save the time and money you will use to get different appliances, as it can replace many appliances that one may need in one's house. Ideal for all those who want to maximize their kitchen space, these multi-cookers are just the things that you need in your house. Here is what you should look out for while buying a multi-cooker.

Functions
When we talk about multi-cookers there are quite a few types available in the market. So, it is important that you go for one that best suits your needs. Here is a list of some of the basic functions that a multi-cooker has to offer:

Pressure Cooking:
Multi-cookers also act as pressure cookers. It helps trap steam inside the cookers, which results in creating high pressure and taking it to a certain boiling point that helps cook food faster. You can use it to cook multiple recipes and experiment in the kitchen.

Slow Cooking:
These cookers can be great for making dishes like biryani or cooking meat. Slow cooking allows the food to fully absorb all the spices, which results in a burst of flavors when you eat the food.

Sautéing:
Many multi-cookers include a sauté option, which allows you to brown onions, seasonings, and vegetables before pressure or slow cooking. This helps improve the flavor of all the curries and dals that you will make.

Pre-Set Menus:
Many advanced multi-cookers include a bunch of pre-set menu options for famous cuisines such as biryani, khichdi, and dal makhani. These settings help you save time trying to find the perfect setting as you can cook them with just a click of a button.

Size:
Multicookers come in a variety of sizes. You will need to consider your family size, i.e., how many people you regularly cook for, in order to decide which size is best for your household. Here are some different sizes that multi-cookers are available in for you to choose from:

1-2 liters
A multi-cooker of this size is ideal for individuals or people with small families (two people). These are great for cooking rice, lentils, and curries.

3-5 liters
These medium-sized multi-cookers are great for families which have 3-5 people in them. A multi-cooker this size will allow you to make a wide range of dishes such as dals, pulao, soups, etc.

6 liters or more
These multi-cookers are perfect for households with families of 6 or more people. Using this multi-cooker, you can easily make large portions of food, so you never have to worry about the food portion being less. It is great for making dishes like biryani, gravies, and meat.

Inner Pot Material:
The inner pot material is also really important and needs to be considered while buying a multi-cooker. Here are 2 of the most common materials found in India:

Stainless Steel:
Stainless steel is a great material for the inner pot. It is durable in nature and has great heat retention quality. It is also seen as a safer choice. However, you will need to put in more efforts cleaning cooker made from this material as food sticks to this material more quickly. You will also need to use more cooking oil to avoid food sticking to the appliance.

Non-stick Material:
This is the most common material available when it comes to multi-cookers. It is affordable and you can easily clean it without any extra effort. However, non-stick material is not scratch-resistant, and over time with usage, it can get scratched. So, you might have to replace it in the long run.

Warranty:
While buying an appliance, it is important that you consider the warranty period it will offer you. The warranty period depends on brand to brand, so it is recommended to go for the one that provides you with the longest period. This makes sure that if the cooker ever breaks and needs a replacement or repair, you can easily get that done within the warranty period without having to spend any extra bucks.

Price:
There are multiple things that you should check out while buying a multi-cooker. Ultimately, if it doesn't fall within your budget, then there is no point; thus, you should always check the price of the multi-cooker that you are interested in buying. There are 3 price ranges when it comes to multi-cookers. If you want a cooker with basic features like cooking rice, steaming, etc., then you should go for a cooker that is budget friendly. If you want one that offers a variety of features but is not that expensive, then go for something mid-range. If you want a cooker that is packed with smart features and makes cooking a breeze for you, then a high-end multi-cooker is recommended.

Which Brand Should You Consider?

Prestige
Prestige is a well-known brand in India, popular for selling a variety of kitchen appliances. This brand is also known for delivering good-quality appliances, so you don't have to worry about the product having any issues. Prestige also sells multi-cookers, which are known to be affordable and durable. It is available in a variety of sizes, so you can easily find one that is best for you. It also offers a variety of features that will make cooking much easier; thus, prestige is a brand that you should consider when you go to buy a multi-cooker.

Wonderchef
Another well-known brand in India, Wonderchef, is a brand that delivers good-quality products. Multi-cookers from this brand are designed with functionality in mind. The sleek exterior is also a plus. Multi-cookers from this brand offer you a bunch of special features that allow you to cook food and save time. So, get ready to cook delicious meals with multi-cookers from Wonderchef.

Pigeon
If you are looking for a multi-cooker for your house, then you should definitely consider Pigeon. Known for producing excellent-quality kitchen appliances, Pigeon is a brand that has made quite a name for itself over the years. Offering you a good multi-cooker at an affordable rate, this brand is also among the top brands to consider while buying a cooker.

Conclusion
When it comes to multi-cookers, you need to get one that best suits your needs. Always consider the capacity of the appliance; select one that is perfect for your family. Check out all the additional features that the application has to offer. Take everything into consideration, from the model to the price, and only after that should you make the decision. Go for the product that you think best suits all your and your family's requirements.

If you’re still not sure about which multi-cooker to get, here is a list of some of the best multi-cookers that are perfect for your kitchen:

  • Prestige Multi Cooker 1 Litre
  • Wonderchef Nutri-Pot Electric Pressure Cooker
  • Butterfly Stainless Steel Matchless Multi Kettle
  • Pigeon by Stovekraft Swift Multi-Cook Kettle
  • InstaCuppa Stainless Steel 3-In-1 Multi Cooker
  • AGARO Esteem Multi Kettle

FAQs

Is multi-cooker better than pressure cooker?
It all depends on what you’re looking for. If you want an appliance that offers a variety of features, then you should go for a multi-cooker. It offers you a bunch of features, like slow cooking, a rice cooker, an air fryer, and even a pressure cooker. With this, you can easily reduce your kitchen space as it can easily replace multiple appliances. But if you want better quality pressure cooking, then it is recommended to go for an actual pressure cooker, as it is solely dedicated to just that. Again, at the end of the day, you should go for the one that best suits all your needs and requirements and makes cooking easy for you.

Is multi-cooker good for Indian cooking?
Yes, multi-cookers are great for Indian cooking. It comes with a variety of features that allow you to create a lot of Indian dishes easily at home. For example, you can use the pressure cooker feature to make delicious dals, curries, and even biryani. The slow-cooking feature is perfect for all those who love to cook meat, as this feature allows your food to properly soak in all the spices and leaves your food full of flavors, ready to be devoured. You can also use this to steam and sauté vegetables. It helps you save the time and energy that usually go into making these Indian dishes.

What are the advantages of a multicooker?
Multi-cookers are a lifesaver when it comes to cooking. These appliances offer you a bunch of features that make cooking super easy and convenient. Here are some of the advantages that a multi-cooker has to offer:

  • Versatile: These cookers allow you to cook rice, make dal and meat, and some even offer you the feature to air fry your food.
  • Saves Time: Cooking can be time consuming, especially when you are having a busy day. Multi-cookers help save time and energy when it comes to cooking and are a great pick for your kitchen.
  • Saves Space: They offer you a variety of features all in one appliance. This saves you space as it can easily replace several other appliances that one might have in one's kitchen. So, get ready to have spacious counters.
  • Easy to use: These cookers are super easy to use. It offers you a variety of pre-set features, so you can easily cook things like dal, biryani, and other food items with just a click of a button.

Disclaimer: Times Shopping Guide is committed to bringing you the latest products from the best brands. Our selection is based on market research and positive consumer feedback. Times Shopping Guide is also a part of an affiliate partnership. In line with this, we may receive a portion of the revenue from your purchases. Please note that the product prices are subject to change based on the retailer's deals.