Air Fryer Showdown Which One Cooks the Crispiest Fries

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  • Source:OrientDeck

Let’s get real—air fryers are kind of a big deal now. Everyone from college students to grandmas is hopping on the crispy, golden-brown bandwagon. But here’s the million-dollar question: which air fryer actually makes the crispiest fries? We put three top contenders head-to-head to find out.

The Contenders

We tested the Ninja AF161, Philips Premium Airfryer HD9650, and Cosori Pro II using the same batch of frozen french fries (Ore-Ida Crinkles, because consistency matters). Each machine ran at 400°F for 15 minutes, shaken halfway through. Judges? A panel of snack lovers with zero chill when it comes to crispiness.

The Results: Crunch Off

After taste tests, texture scoring, and way too much ketchup, here’s how they stacked up:

Air Fryer Crispiness Score (1-10) Cook Time (min) Evenness User Friendliness
Ninja AF161 8.7 15 Good Easy
Philips HD9650 9.5 16 Excellent Moderate
Cosori Pro II 8.9 15 Very Good Very Easy

Yep, the Philips HD9650 took the crown. Its patented TurboStar tech circulates hot air like a mini tornado, giving fries that deep crunch without dryness. The Ninja came close, but had a few soft spots. The Cosori? Super intuitive app control and sleek design—but just a hair less crispy than Philips.

Why Crispiness Wins

Crispy fries aren’t just about taste—they’re about texture contrast. That magic happens when moisture escapes fast while the outside caramelizes. Airflow is king, and Philips’ 360° system dominates here.

Fun fact: In a 2023 consumer survey, 78% of air fryer owners said crispiness was their #1 factor when choosing a model. Performance > pretty buttons.

Pro Tips for Perfect Fries

  • Don’t overcrowd—spread fries in a single layer.
  • Shake halfway—it’s non-negotiable for even browning.
  • Spray lightly with oil—even frozen fries benefit from a mist of avocado oil.
  • Preheat when possible—gives that instant sizzle for max crunch.

The Verdict

If you're chasing that chef's kiss crunch, go with the Philips Premium Airfryer HD9650. It’s pricier (~$249), but delivers restaurant-level crisp every time. For budget-savvy foodies, the Cosori Pro II ($89.99) offers killer performance with smart features. And the Ninja? Solid mid-tier pick if you want versatility (it roasts, reheats, and dehydrates like a champ).

At the end of the day, great fries aren’t just about the spud—they’re about the science. Pick the fryer that respects both.