The slow cooker has become our favorite for stews, chili, bean soups and similar recipes.
Ours has a warm setting in addition to high and low. Useful when we make up the contents one day but want to repeat the feast the next.
(Any left-over is frozen).

Many brand names in the stores, but most (like microwaves, toaster ovens and other counter-top appliances) have the same innards. If buying new, watch for a sale at your favorite superstore.

We also like the brown container, commented on above.