There are kitchen appliances you use occasionally, and then there are the ones that somehow end up working every single day. For me, multi-cookers fall into that second category. Whether I’m frying a quick batch of fries, steaming vegetables, simmering soup, or boiling pasta, a good multi-cooker saves both time and counter space. That’s exactly why I tested the Presto 06006 and Presto 06003 side by side—two extremely popular models that look similar at first glance but behave quite differently in real-world use.
After weeks of cooking, frying, and cleaning both units, I’ve put together this in-depth comparison to help you decide which one truly fits your kitchen routine.
Main Difference Between Presto 06006 vs 06003 Multi-Cooker Steamer
The main difference between the Presto 06006 and 06003 is capacity and heating performance.
- Presto 06003 is a larger 6-quart cooker, offering better heat distribution due to its heavy cast aluminum base and includes a more ergonomic basket that hooks onto the rim for draining.
- Presto 06006, while versatile, is a slightly older-style model that’s more compact but lacks the upgraded heating consistency found in the 06003.
In simple terms:
Choose the 06003 for bigger meals, better frying, and more even heat.
Choose the 06006 for a compact, budget-friendly daily cooker for smaller families.
- Deep fries up to six servings of french fries
- Makes soups and casseroles, cooks rice and pasta, steams fish and vegetables, roasts beef, pork, and poultry
- Makes soups and casseroles, cooks rice and pasta, steams fish and vegetables, and roasts beef, pork, and poultry
- Deep fries up to six servings of french fries
Comparison Table: Presto 06006 vs 06003 Multi-Cooker Steamer
| Feature | Presto 06006 | Presto 06003 |
| Capacity | 6 servings (approx.) | 6-quart big capacity |
| Material | Aluminum | Heavy Cast Aluminum |
| Weight | 1 lb | 0.5 lb |
| Basket | Included (basic) | Basket with rim-hook drain |
| Surface | Ceramic nonstick, PFAS-free | Ceramic nonstick, PFAS-free |
| Heating | Standard | Control Master Heat Control + better heat distribution |
| Fully Immersible | Yes (heat control removed) | Yes (heat control removed) |
| Best For | Daily small meals | Larger batches & even cooking |
| Latest Price, Deals & Offers | Buy on Amazon | Buy on Amazon |
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Design & Build Quality
After unboxing both units, the design differences stood out immediately. The 06006 has a straightforward, classic Presto black-pot look. It’s light, easy to lift, and feels like the kind of cooker you pull out for everyday tasks.
The 06003, however, feels more substantial even though it’s technically lighter. The heavy cast aluminum base makes all the difference—heat spreads more evenly, and the pot retains temperature better when frying.
The bigger 6-quart capacity of the 06003 also gives it a noticeable advantage when cooking for 3–6 people or preparing meals in batches.
Winner: Presto 06003 (more solid, better heat distribution)
- Deep fries up to six servings of french fries
- Makes soups and casseroles, cooks rice and pasta, steams fish and vegetables, roasts beef, pork, and poultry
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Ease of Use
Both models are extremely simple—plug, set the temperature using the heat control, and cook. But in everyday use, I noticed a few things:
Presto 06006
- Heats up quickly
- Lightweight and easy to move around
- Great for steaming and frying smaller portions
- The basket is functional but not as convenient for draining
Presto 06003
- The Control Master heat control maintains temperature better (especially for deep frying)
- The basket hooks onto the rim, which helps drain fried food easily
- The large capacity makes it easier to stir soups or boil pasta without mess
- Because heat spreads better, nothing scorches at the bottom during slow simmering
For beginners or people who want a no-stress cooker, both work great. But if you want a more polished experience, the 06003 feels more refined.
Winner: Presto 06003
- Deep fries up to six servings of french fries
- Makes soups and casseroles, cooks rice and pasta, steams fish and vegetables, roasts beef, pork, and poultry
- Makes soups and casseroles, cooks rice and pasta, steams fish and vegetables, and roasts beef, pork, and poultry
- Deep fries up to six servings of french fries
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Cooking Performance
This is where the real difference shows.
Deep Frying
Frying fries, wings, and nuggets is noticeably better in the 06003. The heat stays consistent even when adding cold food, so the oil temperature doesn’t drop too fast.
The 06006 does a good job, but the temperature fluctuates more.
Steaming
Both steam beautifully, but the 06003’s rim-hook basket just makes the workflow smoother.
Soups & Casseroles
The 06006 tends to stick slightly if the heat is too high, but the 06003 avoids this thanks to its heavyweight base.
Pasta & Rice
Both models perform equally well here.
Roasting
Again, the 06003 cooks more evenly across the surface.
Winner: Presto 06003
- Makes soups and casseroles, cooks rice and pasta, steams fish and vegetables, and roasts beef, pork, and poultry
- Deep fries up to six servings of french fries
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Versatility
Both models can:
- Deep fry
- Steam
- Make casseroles
- Cook rice
- Boil pasta
- Roast meats
- Reheat leftovers
- Serve as a buffet server
However, the 06003 has:
- Bigger capacity
- Better basket design
- Improved heat regulation
…which makes it more versatile for large families.
The 06006, on the other hand, is more compact and practical for small kitchens.
Winner: Tie — depending on your need.
For families: 06003
For smaller kitchens: 06006
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Cleaning & Maintenance
Both units have PFAS-free ceramic nonstick surfaces, and both are fully immersible once you remove the heat control. Cleaning is extremely easy on both models.
The only difference I felt in daily use:
- 06003’s heavier base takes slightly longer to cool down, so cleaning requires waiting a bit longer.
- 06006 cools down faster and is easier to maneuver in the sink.
Winner: Presto 06006 (slightly more convenient)
Presto 06006 Kitchen Kettle Multi-Cooker/Steamer
- Deep fries up to six servings of french fries
- Makes soups and casseroles, cooks rice and pasta, steams fish and vegetables, roasts beef, pork, and poultry
Pros:
- Lightweight and easy to handle
- Great nonstick surface
- Quick heating
- Compact design fits small kitchens
- Perfect for everyday cooking tasks
- Fully immersible for easy cleaning
Cons:
- Heat fluctuates more during frying
- Basket design is basic
- Not ideal for large families
Presto 06003 Electric Multi-Cooker & Steamer
- Makes soups and casseroles, cooks rice and pasta, steams fish and vegetables, and roasts beef, pork, and poultry
- Deep fries up to six servings of french fries
Pros:
- Larger 6-quart capacity
- Superior heat distribution
- More consistent frying performance
- Basket hooks to rim for easy draining
- PFAS-free ceramic nonstick
- Great for family-sized cooking
Cons:
- Slightly bulkier
- Takes longer to cool down
- Requires more storage space
Conclusion & Recommendation:
After testing both models extensively, I can say they each serve a different type of kitchen.
Choose the Presto 06006 if:
- You live alone or have a small household
- You prefer lightweight appliances
- You need a budget-friendly multi-cooker
- You want something easy to clean and store
Choose the Presto 06003 if:
- You cook for 3–6 people
- You need consistent temperature control for frying
- You want a bigger, more durable cooker
- You prepare soups, stews, and large batches frequently
If I had to pick only one for everyday use, I’d go with the Presto 06003. The larger capacity, better heat distribution, and improved usability give it the edge. It simply feels more capable during tougher cooking tasks.
But if you prefer portability and simplicity, the 06006 is still a solid, reliable choice for smaller kitchens.
