⚡️ Quick Verdict - PHILIPS Airfryer XXL (2018)
- Best For: Large families, crispy results, healthier frying.
- Strengths: Generous capacity, effective fat reduction, consistent cooking.
- Drawbacks: Bulky size, higher energy consumption.
- Verdict: A powerful airfryer for family-sized meals.
⚖️ Pros & Cons Explained
| Aspect | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Cooking Performance | Users frequently report consistently crispy and evenly cooked food due to the powerful air circulation. It excels at browning and achieving a fried texture. | Some users note that achieving optimal results for certain delicate foods can take some trial and error with temperature and timing. |
| Capacity & Size | The XXL capacity is highly praised for its ability to cook large quantities, such as a whole chicken or two bags of fries, making it suitable for families or entertaining. | Its large footprint means it can take up significant counter space, and storage can be an issue in smaller kitchens. |
| Ease of Cleaning | Many components, including the basket and pan, are dishwasher-safe, which simplifies cleanup after use. | While parts are dishwasher-safe, the main unit and certain nooks can still require manual wiping, and the fat removal pan can be a bit more involved to clean thoroughly. |
| User Interface & Presets | The digital display and preset programs offer convenient and intuitive operation, allowing users to quickly start cooking various dishes. | A few users found the preset temperatures and times to be not always perfectly suited for every type of food, requiring manual adjustments. |
🔧 What’s Included? & Why It Matters
| Component | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Philips Airfryer XXL Main Unit | This is the core appliance, housing the heating element and fan that circulates hot air for frying, baking, grilling, and roasting. |
| Non-Stick Mesh Basket with Handle | The main cooking compartment where food is placed. Its non-stick coating and mesh design ensure even air circulation around food and easy food removal. |
| Fat Removal Pan | Located beneath the mesh basket, this unique feature is designed to capture excess fat from food, making meals healthier. |
| Recipe Book/Quick Start Guide | Provides initial cooking instructions, safety guidelines, and inspiration for various dishes, helping users get started quickly. |
💰 Is It Worth It? – Value & Cost Efficiency
| Aspect | Positive | Negative |
|---|---|---|
| Durability & Build Quality | Users frequently report the appliance feels robust and well-constructed, suggesting it's designed for long-term use. The materials used feel premium and can withstand regular cooking. | Some owners note that while the unit is durable, the non-stick coating on the basket requires careful handling to maintain its integrity over time. |
| Versatility in Cooking | The ability to air fry, bake, grill, roast, and even reheat means it can replace multiple kitchen appliances, offering a wide range of cooking options from a single device. | Despite its versatility, some specialized cooking tasks might still be better suited for dedicated appliances (e.g., deep frying for authentic results, slow cooking). |
| Health Benefits | The patented Fat Removal Technology is consistently highlighted as a key benefit, allowing for the preparation of meals with significantly less added oil and reduced fat compared to traditional frying methods. | While it reduces fat, the perception of health benefits is relative; it doesn't transform inherently less healthy foods into health foods, and some dishes still benefit from a small amount of oil for flavor and texture. |
🔁 Philips Comparison – How This Version Improves Over Previous Models
| Aspect | Philips Airfryer XXL (HD9630/90 - 2017) | Philips Airfryer XXL (HD9650/96 - 2018) |
|---|---|---|
| Core Technology | Rapid Air Technology for hot air circulation. | Rapid Air Technology + Fat Removal Technology (Starfish design for capturing fat). |
| Display/Controls | Analog dial with basic temperature and timer settings. | Digital display with preset programs and Keep Warm function. |
| Capacity | 1.4 kg / 7.3 L basket capacity. | 1.4 kg / 7.3 L basket capacity (same). |
| User Convenience | Simpler controls, manual adjustments. | More precise digital control and automated presets for common dishes. |
⚔️ Alternatives vs PHILIPS Airfryer XXL (2018)
| Aspect | COSORI Air Fryer Max XL (5.8-Quart) | Instant Pot Vortex 6-in-1 Air Fryer (6-Quart) | PHILIPS Airfryer XXL (2018) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 5.8 Quarts / 5.5 Liters | 6 Quarts / 5.7 Liters | 7.3 Liters / 1.4 kg |
| Key Technology | Rapid 360° Air Circulation | EvenCrisp Technology for even cooking | Rapid Air + Fat Removal Technology |
| User Interface | Digital touchscreen with 11 presets | Digital touchscreen with customizable smart programs | Digital display with presets and Keep Warm function |
| Cleaning | Non-stick, dishwasher-safe basket | Non-stick, dishwasher-safe basket and tray | Non-stick, dishwasher-safe basket and fat removal pan |
| Footprint | Moderate, fits standard counter space | Moderate, designed for counter space | Largest footprint among the three |
💡 FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
- Does the Philips Airfryer XXL require preheating?While not strictly required for all recipes, preheating is often recommended for best results, especially for items that benefit from immediate high heat, such as frozen foods or baked goods. It typically takes a few minutes.
- Can I cook fresh vegetables in this airfryer?Yes, the Philips Airfryer XXL is highly effective for cooking fresh vegetables, often yielding tender interiors with crispy exteriors. A small amount of oil and seasoning is usually sufficient.
- How often should the fat removal pan be cleaned?The fat removal pan should be cleaned after every use to prevent buildup and ensure optimal performance of the fat removal technology. It is dishwasher-safe for convenience.
- Is it loud during operation?The Philips Airfryer XXL produces fan noise during operation, similar to a powerful kitchen exhaust fan or a conventional oven fan. User perception of loudness can vary, but it's generally within expected levels for such an appliance.
👍 Positive Reviews - What Users Love
- This airfryer really delivers on crispiness without all the oil. We've made everything from chicken wings to roasted vegetables, and it consistently turns out great. The large size is perfect for our family.
- Cleaning is surprisingly easy. The parts pop right into the dishwasher, which is a huge plus after making dinner.
- The fat removal feature actually works! I’ve noticed less grease in the pan, and the food still tastes fantastic. It feels like a healthier way to enjoy fried foods.
- The digital controls are intuitive, and the presets are helpful for getting started quickly with common meals.
- It heats up fast and cooks food evenly. No more soggy fries, everything comes out perfectly golden.
👎 Negative Reviews - What Could Be Better
- While the capacity is great, the physical size of this airfryer is quite large. It takes up a significant amount of counter space and is a bit of a challenge to store.
- I found that the pre-set cooking times aren't always accurate for my preferences, so I often have to manually adjust them. It's not a major issue, but something to note.
- It does produce a fair amount of noise when running, which can be noticeable in a quiet kitchen.
- The price point felt a bit high compared to other airfryers on the market, though the build quality does seem superior.
- After several months of use, the non-stick coating on the basket seems to be showing some wear, despite following cleaning instructions.
📋 Key Details & Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model Year | 2018 |
| Capacity | 1.4 kg (3 lbs) food capacity / 7.3 Liters (XXL) |
| Technology | Rapid Air Technology, Fat Removal Technology |
| Power | Approximately 2200 Watts |
| Temperature Range | 80°C to 200°C (175°F to 400°F) |
| Timer | Up to 60 minutes with auto-off function |
| Display | Digital LED display |
| Programs | 5 preset cooking programs |
| Special Features | Keep Warm function (up to 30 minutes), Dishwasher-safe parts |
| Product Dimensions (LxWxH) | Approximately 43.3 x 32.2 x 31.6 cm (17.05 x 12.68 x 12.44 inches) |
| Weight | Approximately 7.93 kg (17.5 lbs) |
| Color | Black with silver accents (common variant) |
🔚 Summary – Is This the Right Choice for You?
- The PHILIPS Airfryer XXL (2018) stands out for its substantial cooking capacity and the unique Fat Removal Technology, making it an excellent choice for individuals or families prioritizing healthier frying without sacrificing taste or texture.
- Its ability to consistently deliver crispy results across a wide range of foods, from whole chickens to large batches of fries, is a major advantage. The digital interface and dishwasher-safe components add to its user-friendly appeal.
- However, its generous size means it demands considerable counter and storage space. While powerful, some users might find the operational noise noticeable and the initial investment higher than smaller alternatives.
- Ultimately, if you frequently cook large portions, value reduced fat in your meals, and have the kitchen space to accommodate it, this Airfryer XXL offers a robust and effective solution for versatile cooking.
