Philips SmartChef XXL 9000: The Air Fryer of the Future is Here
In 2026, air fryers are no longer a novelty; they’re a kitchen staple. But not all air fryers are created equal. The Philips SmartChef XXL 9000 aims to be the king of the hill, boasting AI-powered cooking assistance, a massive capacity, and seamless smart home integration. After a month of rigorous testing, here’s my verdict.
Unboxing and First Impressions
The SmartChef XXL 9000 is undeniably large. Its brushed stainless steel exterior gives it a premium feel, and the intuitive touchscreen interface is a welcome upgrade from older models. The XXL capacity is genuinely impressive; I could easily fit a whole chicken or enough fries for a family of six. Setup was straightforward, connecting to my Wi-Fi network and Philips Hue lighting system without a hitch.
Performance: Smart Cooking at its Finest
The standout feature is the AI-powered cooking assistant. Using the companion app, you can select a dish from a vast library or even upload a photo of your ingredients. The SmartChef then analyzes the ingredients and suggests the optimal cooking time and temperature. This feature is surprisingly accurate and takes the guesswork out of air frying, especially for beginners.
Beyond the AI, the SmartChef XXL 9000 delivers exceptional cooking performance. Food is consistently crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. The rapid air technology ensures even cooking, eliminating cold spots. I’ve successfully cooked everything from chicken wings and french fries to vegetables and even baked a small cake.
Smart Home Integration: A Seamless Experience
The SmartChef integrates seamlessly with other smart home devices. I can start and stop the air fryer remotely using voice commands (Alexa, Google Assistant, and Siri are all supported). The integration with my Philips Hue lights is a nice touch, automatically dimming the lights when the air fryer is in use. You can also set up custom routines, such as automatically ordering groceries when you’re running low on ingredients.
Pros:
- Massive XXL capacity
- AI-powered cooking assistance is incredibly useful
- Excellent cooking performance: crispy and evenly cooked food
- Seamless smart home integration
- Intuitive touchscreen interface
- Easy to clean (dishwasher-safe parts)
Cons:
- The large size may be an issue for smaller kitchens
- Premium price point
- The AI assistant isn’t perfect; occasional adjustments are needed
Final Verdict
The Philips SmartChef XXL 9000 is undoubtedly one of the best air fryers on the market in 2026. Its AI-powered cooking assistance, massive capacity, and seamless smart home integration make it a worthwhile investment for those who value convenience and performance. While the price is steep and the size may be prohibitive for some, the SmartChef XXL 9000 delivers on its promises and elevates the air frying experience to a whole new level. I highly recommend it.