Whether you’re making comforting curries, casseroles or chilli con carne, we’ve tested the top slow cookers for serving up winter warmers

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As January beds in and our craving for cosiness increases, you may be minded to dig out the slow cooker. Coming home to a warm, bubbling meal – with very little effort – is a real treat in the cold and dark. Plus, slow cooking can be an economical method of cooking.

If you have yet to experience the comfort and joy of a slow cooker, or if your ancient model has finally died a death, it could be time to treat yourself to a season of stews, casseroles, curries and more. I’ve spent weeks testing slow cookers to compile a shortlist of the most functional, useful and well-designed recommendations to transform your dinner time.

Best overall slow cooker:
GreenPan slow cooker
_{£200 at GreenPan}

Best basic slow cooker:
ProCook digital slow cooker
_{£49 at ProCook}

Best multi-cooker:
Ninja Foodi 8-in-1 PossibleCooker
_{£120 at Argos}

Best pressure-cooking slow cooker:
Sage Fast Slo Pro
_{£179.95 at Sage Appliances}