For a long time, Philips reigned supreme over the oil-free fryer kingdom. Then, competitors like Ninja arrived with a major innovation: the dual basket (Dual Zone). Philips took its time to react, but the Dutch brand is back today with a proposal that could well redefine the high-end standard: the Philips 5000 Series Airfryer.
Why is this model making so much noise? Because it doesn't just offer 9 liters of capacity or two cooking zones. It integrates hybrid technology allowing steam cooking. Crispy fries on one side, steamed green beans on the other? That's the promise.
We spent 15 days with this imposing machine on our countertop to see if the addition of steam justifies its premium price. Spoiler: your cooking habits might change.
Design and Ergonomics: A Kitchen Colossus
Out of the box, the 5000 Series commands respect... and requires space. With its 9-liter total capacity, it's a beast. The design is faithful to Philips: glossy black (watch out for fingerprints), curved lines, and premium finish. We are far from the creeking plastics of some entry-level brands.
The touch interface is located on top. It is complete, perhaps a bit too much at first glance with its many icons, but you quickly find your way thanks to the central dial which remains, in our opinion, more precise than "all touch".
Dimensions to consider
Warning, the machine is deep. Plan a space of at least 40cm deep on your countertop and avoid sticking it against a wall, as the hot air (and steam!) exhaust at the back is powerful.
The real ergonomic innovation lies in the flexibility of the baskets. You can use the full zone for a whole roast chicken, or divide the space to cook two different foods.
Technical Specifications
Philips didn't skimp on power to ensure that RapidAir technology works as well in a 9L tank as in small models.
Hybrid Air/Steam Technology
The Best of Both Worlds
This is the highlight of this model. Unlike a classic Airfryer which tends to dry out white meats or fish, the 5000 Series injects steam. Result: crispy chicken on the outside but juicy on the inside.
Cooking Performance: The Truth Test
We subjected the Philips 5000 Series to our usual test protocol, with particular attention to the steam promise.
1. Fries (Classic Airfryer Mode)
This is the baseline test. With fresh homemade fries and half a spoon of oil, the result is excellent. Philips' RapidAir technology remains, in our opinion, superior to the competition in terms of air circulation. The fries are evenly browned without needing to stir the basket every 5 minutes.
- ScanPricer Rating: 9/10
2. Salmon and Vegetables (Steam + Air Mode)
This is where the 5000 Series crushes the competition. We cooked a salmon steak with broccoli. Usually, in an Airfryer, broccoli comes out "burnt" or dry. Here, thanks to the water tank, the vegetables are steamed, keeping their green color and nutrients. The fish is pearly, melting, not dry at all.
- ScanPricer Rating: 10/10 (Unprecedented in this segment)
3. Dual Zone Management (Sync Finish)
Like Ninja, Philips offers a function to synchronize the end of cooking. You put a 45-min roast on the left and 20-min fries on the right: the machine will wait before starting the fries so that everything is ready at exactly 8:00 PM. It works perfectly, although it takes a little getting used to at first to not mistake the basket.
Noise and Ventilation
In "Steam" mode, the machine is a bit noisier than in classic Airfryer mode due to water management. Also, expect a plume of steam at the outlet: do not install the device under a wooden cupboard sensitive to humidity.
Cleaning and Maintenance
This is often the sore point of household appliances. Philips has made all removable parts (baskets, grids) dishwasher safe.
However, we recommend hand washing for the non-stick coating. It is of good quality, but the dishwasher always ends up wearing down Teflon coatings in the long run. The water tank is easy to empty and rinse, a good point for hygiene (no stagnant water).
Pros and Cons
After two weeks of intensive use, here is what to remember.
Advantages
- Extreme versatility: Fry and steam in the same device
- Philips cooking quality: RapidAir remains the reference for crispiness
- 9L Capacity: Sufficient for a family of 4 to 6 people
- Premium design and intuitive interface (once mastered)
- Sync Finish function to synchronize both dishes
Disadvantages
- Bulk: It's a monster on the countertop
- High price: Steam technology comes at a cost
- Power cable a bit short (80cm)
- Glossy black very messy (fingerprint magnet)
Verdict
The Philips 5000 Series Airfryer is not just another fryer. It is a successful attempt to replace both your oven and your steamer. If you are only looking to make fries and nuggets, turn to a cheaper Essential model.
On the other hand, if you are looking for an "all-in-one" device capable of cooking healthily (steam) on Monday and making a "pleasure" feast (fries/chicken) on Saturday, it is currently the most complete model on the market. It outperforms the Ninja Foodi on the finesse of vegetable and fish cooking thanks to the moisture contribution.
Our Final Opinion: The New Reference
It is an investment, certainly, but justified by versatility. Steam cooking is a game-changer and corrects the main defect of Airfryers (drying out food). For families concerned about eating healthily without sacrificing crispiness, it is a 2026 "Must Have".
Amazon Europe Price Comparison
Airfryer prices vary significantly by country. Use our ScanPricer comparator to check prices in real-time:
| Country | Indicative Price | Potential Saving |
|---|---|---|
| 🇩🇪 Germany | ~€280 | Up to -€30 |
| 🇪🇸 Spain | ~€290 | Up to -€20 |
| 🇫🇷 France | ~€310 | Reference Price |
| 🇮🇹 Italy | ~€295 | Up to -€15 |
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
The Philips integrates steam cooking, absent in Ninja. The Ninja is cheaper and more compact. For healthy versatility (steamed veggies + frying), the Philips wins. For fries only, the Ninja is enough.
Yes, up to 1.8 kg. Using the unified zone (full 9L), the chicken cooks perfectly with crispy skin thanks to the rotisserie mode.
In classic Airfryer mode: moderately (comparable to a fan oven). In steam mode: slightly noisier due to water vaporization.
2750W at full power, but rarely used at 100%. On average, count 1-1.5 kWh for a 30-minute cooking session, or ~€0.25.
Yes, the 2-year European Philips warranty applies throughout the EU. Learn more about EU warranty →
Read also: ScanPricer User Guide | Garmin Fenix 8 Review
