This Philips air fryer is guaranteed to fix an issue in my kitchen — and it’s not the one you think

An air fryer has become a necessity in the kitchen. The sheer convenience it offers in being a space-saving appliance capable of cooking food as well, and often faster, than a conventional oven – and therefore saving energy – there is virtually no reason to do so. not have one.

I can certainly attest to this, as I use my Instant Vortex Air Fryer almost daily. I published my Instant Vortex Air Fryer with Versazone review in April 2024 and it is still relevant today. I have no real reason or need to replace it, but having recently laid eyes on the Philips Series 3000 Air Fryer, I’m not so sure anymore. Add to that the fact that it’s been reduced to just AU$197 on Amazon (from AU$399), I think I might find myself adding it to my cart.

A great first impression

A lot of my decision to swap my air fryer allegiance comes down to looks. I like the look of my current Instant Vortex air fryer — the angled top panel is a bit more interesting than a simple black box — but the fact that the Philips model comes in an attractive white with champagne accents on the handles has me hooked.

My kitchen is predominantly white, so the Philips machine will definitely blend in better with the decor, making the space look “open” or “lighter”. And who can say no to a little champagne gold? I think it looks even more premium than my current setup (which, incidentally, retails for the same price of AU$399, but is currently marked down to AU$299.99 on Amazon), and while it may just be a humble cooking machine, if I can add a little extra luxury to my home in any way, you best believe I’m going to do it.

Not just a pretty face

Now, while we haven’t yet reviewed the Philips 3000 Series Air Fryer here at TechRadar, we have reviewed the 1000 and 5000 Series, which fall on either side in terms of features and usability. Both of these models received positive reviews from us, especially when it comes to delivering perfectly cooked meals – ultimately what you’d expect from any air fryer.

On paper, the 3000 Series has more in common with the 5000 Series, although it lacks the higher-end model’s ability to cook (and clean) with the power of steam.

And since this model only comes in black, I’m happy to forgo that extra functionality in favor of aesthetic appeal. The 3000 Series adopts a similar double basket design, where one basket is larger than the other, for a total cooking space of 9 liters.

The only small problem here is that the baskets are individual. My Instant Vortex has a large 8.5L cooking basket that can be split in two if needed, with a divider that allows me to adjust the size of each as needed. I like having a large basket, so there would be some compromises and a brief period of learning a new way of cooking, but given that the Philips’ largest drawer is a respectable 6L, I think I’ll do just fine.

Otherwise, the two machines look virtually identical. Both offer the ability to finish cooking two separate dishes at the same time and both offer a number of cooking methods. However, since I tend to rely solely on the main air fry function, this is almost not an issue.

And, as mentioned, now that it’s down 51% to a rather affordable AU$197, my decision is that much easier.