So, you’re on a mission to make the perfect chips—and you know an air fryer is the key. But with a market flooded by options promising crispy results and healthier cooking, how do you choose the right one? No worries—we’ve done the legwork for you!

In this guide, we focus on the best air fryers for chips, whether you’re looking for lightning-fast cook times, a generous capacity, or a compact model that won’t take up too much space on your counter.

We tested a range of air fryers with one goal: golden, crunchy chips without the oil or hassle. From family-sized workhorses to smart space savers, we examined key features such as ease of use, crisp performance, cleaning convenience, and overall value.

Our Editor’s Pick, the Bosch Series 6 XXL Air Fryer, wowed us with its dual heating system, large capacity, and touchscreen simplicity—producing perfectly crisp chips every time, no shaking required.

Need something more versatile? The HYSapientia 24L Air Fryer Oven takes the Runner-Up spot with bonus functions like rotisserie and baking. On a budget? The Chefman 3.8L Air Fryer delivers solid chip performance without breaking the bank.

And yes—we’re even naming one to avoid, so you don’t waste your time or money. Let’s find your ideal air fryer and turn your chip cravings into crispy, golden reality!

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What Every Good Chip-Making Air Fryer Should Offer

When shopping for an air fryer specifically to make excellent chips, there are several key features that should be considered standard. These aren't “nice-to-haves”—they're the essentials you should expect from any model that claims to fry chips well.

Must-Have Features for Chip Frying

• Consistent Heat Distribution: Ensures even cooking and golden results without burnt edges or undercooked centres.
• Adjustable Temperature Control: Allows precision cooking to suit different chip styles—thin, thick, or crinkle-cut.
• Timer Function: Lets you set and forget without worrying about overcooking.
• High Maximum Temperature: A temp range up to 200°C (or more) is important for a crispy finish.
• Quick Preheat or No Preheat Needed: Modern air fryers should either heat rapidly or be ready to cook instantly.
• Shake or Stir Alerts: Prompts you to shake halfway through for more even results (especially in single-element fryers).
• Dishwasher-Safe Basket: Easy cleaning is essential for frequent use.
• Capacity that Matches Your Needs: A good fryer should suit your household size—anything from 3.5L for singles or couples, to 7L+ for families.

Design and Build Quality

A well-designed air fryer does more than just cook—it complements your kitchen, withstands regular use, and is built to last.

• Compact Footprint: Even larger capacity fryers should be designed with countertop space in mind.
• Sturdy Construction: Look for robust builds with minimal plastic flexing or rattling.
• Heat-Resistant Housing: External surfaces should stay cool to the touch, reducing burn risk.
• Smooth Drawer Mechanism: The basket or drawer should slide out easily and lock back securely.
• User-Friendly Interface: Whether it’s a digital touchscreen or manual dial, controls should be simple and intuitive.
• Quality Non-Stick Coating: Ensures chips don’t stick and simplifies cleaning. Avoid coatings that flake or degrade easily.
• Stable Base with Rubber Feet: Prevents wobbling or slipping during use.

The Little Extras That Take It Up a Notch

While not essential, these features can greatly enhance usability, performance, and the overall cooking experience, especially if you use your air fryer often.

• Dual Heating Elements: Speeds up cooking and often eliminates the need for shaking halfway through.
• Viewing Window with Internal Light: Lets you check on chips without interrupting cooking.
• Preset Programs: One-touch options for chips, roast veg, chicken, or even baking.
• Rotisserie Function: Adds versatility, especially for whole chickens or kebabs.
• Keep Warm Mode: Handy for holding food at serving temperature.
• Recipe App or Digital Integration: Some models connect via Wi-Fi or offer companion apps with guided recipes.
• Odour Filter or Venting System: Helps reduce kitchen smells from frequent frying.
• Included Accessories: Trays, racks, skewers, or crisper plates included in the box add real value.
• Warranty or Quality Assurance: At least 1–2 years' warranty is a sign of brand confidence and durability.

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Editors Pick

Bosch Series 6 Air Fryer XXL, MAF671B0GB, 7.2 L Capacity

The Bosch Series 6 Air Fryer XXL is a sleek, powerful appliance designed for easy, efficient cooking. With a large 7.2L capacity, dual heating, and simple touch controls, it’s ideal for preparing crispy chips and much more, without the oil, preheating, or hassle.

Key Features

• Dual Heating Elements: Delivers consistent, evenly crisped chips without needing to shake mid-cook.
• Illuminated Viewing Window: Lets you keep an eye on your food without opening the drawer.
• Generous 7.2L Capacity: Perfect for families, with room for up to five portions.
• Touchscreen Controls: Choose from 7 presets or manual settings with ease.
• Rapid Cooking: No preheat needed; cooks up to 65% faster than traditional ovens.
• Healthier Frying: Uses up to 95% less oil while retaining great taste.
• Easy Cleaning: Non-stick parts are dishwasher-safe for quick cleanup.

We recently put the Bosch Series 6 Air Fryer through its paces, and it’s now our go-to for chips. The dual heating system means we no longer need to shake the basket—everything comes out evenly golden and crisp.

We loved how the illuminated window allowed us to monitor progress without disrupting the cooking time. Despite its generous size, it didn’t crowd our worktop, and the touchscreen was a breeze to use. Whether we used presets or adjusted manually, the results were consistently excellent.

The speed was a game changer, too—no waiting around for it to heat up. Cleanup couldn’t have been easier. We popped the non-stick basket straight into the dishwasher. The minimal oil needed for crisp results made our chips lighter but just as satisfying.

If you're looking for an efficient, fuss-free air fryer that delivers top-tier chips, this is it.

Runner Up

HYSapientia® 24L Air Fryer Oven With Rotisserie Large XXL Digital Knob

The HYSapientia 24L Air Fryer Oven earns its spot as our Runner Up for its ability to produce consistently crispy chips while offering serious versatility.

Compact but powerful, it’s perfect for families needing an efficient, multi-function kitchen appliance that doesn’t compromise on performance or quality.

Key Features

• Compact 24L Capacity: Fits 3–5 person meals without taking up much space.
• Dual Heating Control: Upper and lower heat tubes for even results.
• 10 Cooking Modes: Air fry, rotisserie, grill, bake, dehydrate, and more.
• Rotisserie Feature: Juicy roasts with crisp, golden finishes.
• Stainless Steel Build: Non-toxic and easy to clean inside and out.
• Energy Efficient: Cooks fast, saves power, no need to preheat.
• Full Kit Included: Comes with trays, rack, basket, rotisserie, gloves, and cookbook.
• Safe to Use: Insulated glass, anti-scald handle, and clear interior lighting.

We put the HYSapientia oven through a wide variety of tests—from thick-cut chips to full roast dinners—and it performed impressively each time. The chips came out golden and fluffy inside with no preheating required, and the convection system ensured everything cooked evenly on every level.

Its rotisserie function was another standout, delivering crispy skin and moist chicken with ease. The appliance feels solid and well-made, with intuitive controls and a display that’s easy to read.

We also appreciated the safe, stainless steel construction, especially important for those avoiding toxic coatings in kitchenware.

Energy savings were noticeable during daily use, and the included accessories meant we didn’t need to buy extras. For anyone needing a reliable, versatile, and healthier alternative to traditional cooking methods, this oven covers nearly every base while keeping things simple and compact.

Budget Pick

Chefman 3.8L Air Fryer, Touch Controls with 4 Presets, Compact Air Fryer

The Chefman 3.8L Air Fryer is a compact, affordable kitchen essential that makes crisp, golden chips with ease. With user-friendly controls and a high-heat boost feature, it’s a standout choice for small households looking to enjoy healthier, low-oil cooking without compromising on taste or texture.

Key Features

• Hi-Fry Technology: A 235°C boost crisps chips perfectly in the last two minutes of cooking.
• Touch Controls: Four presets and a digital display make it simple to set time and temperature.
• Compact Design: Space-saving yet holds enough for 2–4 portions.
• Shake Reminder: Midway alerts ensure even cooking and better crunch.
• Easy Cleaning: Dishwasher-safe nonstick basket and tray for quick clean-up.
• Safe Operation: Auto shut-off when cooking ends or basket is removed.
• Matte Finish: Sleek black look that’s easy to wipe clean.
• Durable Build: UKCA approved and backed by a 2-year assurance.

We recently tested the Chefman 3.8L Air Fryer and found it to be a great fit for small kitchens and quick weekday dinners. Chips turned out golden and crisp thanks to the Hi-Fry boost, and the shake alert ensured they cooked evenly without burning.

The touchscreen controls are intuitive, and the four presets cover basic meals like fries and chicken. Its compact form factor is ideal if you’re tight on space, yet the capacity is more than enough for 2–4 servings. We especially liked the dishwasher-safe basket, which made clean-up a breeze.

Despite being a budget option, it feels sturdy and well-built, with added safety features like auto shut-off for peace of mind. Whether you’re new to air fryers or want a simple, cost-effective unit for everyday use, this model does the job reliably. For chip lovers on a budget, it’s hard to go wrong here.

Most Compact Air Fryer Pick

Midea Compact 2L Air Fryer – 12 Preset Menus, Adjustable Timer, 80-200°C Temperature Control

The Midea Compact 2L Air Fryer is perfect for anyone short on kitchen space but keen on crispy, low-oil chips. With a small footprint and straightforward controls, it’s a practical addition to small homes, flats, or caravans where space-saving and quick meals are a priority.

Key Features

• Space-Saving Design: Measures just 21.8cm wide by 23.2cm high—ideal for tight countertops and easy storage.
• Manual Controls: Two simple knobs control temperature (80–200°C) and time (up to 60 minutes).
• Efficient Cooking: 1150W of power and 360° hot air circulation deliver even, crispy results.
• Healthier Frying: Achieve the crunch of deep frying using up to 90% less oil.
• 5-in-1 Versatility: Roast, bake, grill, reheat, or air fry with the 2L non-stick basket.
• Safe Operation: Auto shut-off, overheat protection, BPA/PFA-free materials, and dishwasher-safe basket.

We tested the Midea Compact 2L Air Fryer in a small kitchen, and it quickly earned its spot. It fit neatly beside our kettle, leaving room to work, and was light enough to move and store with ease. The knob controls are refreshingly simple—perfect for quick meals without fiddling with digital presets.

Cooking chips took less than 15 minutes, and they came out evenly golden and crispy. We also tried jacket potatoes and roasted veg, all cooked evenly with barely a drop of oil. Cleaning was hassle-free, thanks to the dishwasher-safe basket.

Its safety features, including auto shut-off and overheat protection, gave us peace of mind. Whether you’re cooking for one or two, or want an easy solution in a caravan or studio, the Midea Compact Air Fryer delivers. For compact performance, this one stands out.

Best All-in-One Air Fryer For Chips

Ninja Air Fryer, 3.8L, 4-in-1, Uses No Oil, Air Fry, Roast, Reheat, Dehydrate, Non-Stick

The Ninja Air Fryer 3.8L is our top choice for anyone serious about homemade chips. With rapid cooking, versatile functions, and an oil-free crisp every time, it delivers reliable results while saving on energy and space. Ideal for small households looking to cook smarter and eat better.

Key Features

• 4-in-1 Cooking: Air Fry, Roast, Reheat, and Dehydrate in one appliance.
• Oil-Free Crisp: Achieves golden chips using little to no oil.
• Faster Meals: Cooks up to 50% quicker than fan ovens.
• Energy Saver: Reduces energy use by up to 55% versus conventional ovens.
• Compact Design: Fits neatly on your counter while holding up to 900g of chips.
• Non-Stick Basket: 3.8L capacity, dishwasher-safe and easy to clean.
• Included Extras: Comes with crisper plate and recipe guide to get started.

We recently tested the Ninja Air Fryer 3.8L and found it an ideal fit for smaller kitchens and households of 2–4 people. It’s compact, looks sleek on the worktop, and is extremely easy to use. Chips came out evenly cooked, crisp, and golden — no oil needed.

The speed of cooking impressed us, as meals were ready in nearly half the time of our oven.

Clean-up was quick thanks to the non-stick, dishwasher-safe basket. Although it lacks a ‘max crisp’ setting, it didn’t affect the quality of results. We also appreciated the energy-saving performance and the helpful recipe guide included. For saucy dishes, we added silicone liners to keep things tidy.

Overall, the Ninja 3.8L is a strong, efficient option — especially if you make chips regularly and want healthier results without sacrificing flavour or texture.

One To Avoid

Tefal - Actifry Extra Black FZ7228 Healthy Air Fryer, 1.2 kg Capacity

We put the Tefal Actifry Extra through its paces with a range of family meals, and while it has a few redeeming features, we ultimately found it to be one to avoid.

It does have some positives—the 1.2kg capacity is suitable for up to six people, and the low-oil cooking method delivers healthier results without greasy smells. The automatic paddle was a helpful touch, evenly rotating food without us having to stir, and the app’s recipe library offered decent inspiration.

However, these benefits are overshadowed by a list of frustrating issues. Ours arrived with a European plug (no UK adaptor included), which meant added cost and inconvenience straight away.

The build quality was disappointing—the scoop and handle felt flimsy, and the overall construction didn’t instil confidence. Heating control was another major letdown. It occasionally continued cooking after the timer ended, resulting in inconsistent results.

And with its bulky design, it demands more counter space than most kitchens can spare.

Even with the helpful app and dishwasher-safe parts, we couldn’t overlook the practical problems. In our view, it’s one of the most disappointing kitchen appliances we’ve tested in recent months. Unless you're prepared for adaptors and compromises, this is one best left on the shelf.

How We Tested and Chose the Best Air Fryers for Chips

When it comes to picking the best air fryer for chips, we didn’t just rely on product specs or marketing claims. We put each model through a series of hands-on tests to evaluate what really matters: performance, ease of use, consistency, and overall value. Here's how we did it:

Chip Performance and Cooking Tests

We focused first on how well each air fryer cooked chips—uniformly golden, crispy on the outside, and fluffy inside. We used the same type of potato (like Maris Piper), cut chips to an even 10mm thickness, and soaked and dried them to reduce starch.

Every unit was tested with both manual settings and chip presets where available, using a consistent oil amount. We ran small and full-capacity batches to see how each model handled volume. We judged browning, crispness, cook time, preheat needs, and consistency across multiple batches.

Usability and Design Evaluation

Next, we looked at how intuitive and practical each air fryer was to use. We assessed how easy it was to set up and operate, how clearly the controls were labelled, and whether the drawer or basket opened and closed smoothly.

We also considered overall design—was it compact enough for countertop use, and did it feel sturdy and well-built? Cleaning was key, too. We checked whether the parts were genuinely non-stick, if they were dishwasher-safe, and whether oil or crumbs got trapped in hard-to-reach places.

Safety and Sound Testing

We tested safety by checking how hot the outer casing became during use and whether it included automatic shut-off functions. This was particularly important for families or busy kitchens. We also checked if the fryer stopped cooking when the basket was removed.

Sound levels were noted too—some units were whisper-quiet, while others were noticeably loud. We measured noise using a decibel meter to fairly compare models. Overall, safety and noise weren’t deal-breakers, but they did help highlight models that were more pleasant to use on a daily basis.

Durability and Long-Term Use

Although long-term use takes months to test fully, we simulated wear by cooking multiple batches in a row. This allowed us to spot signs of early wear like flaking non-stick coatings, warping, or performance drop-off.

We noted whether the fryer continued delivering the same quality chips over time, and whether touchscreens or dials became less responsive after repeated use. Build quality was also taken into account—some units felt solid and premium, while others rattled or flexed with basic handling.

The most durable models held up well under pressure.

Assessing Extra Features

Air fryers often come with extras like dual heating, shake reminders, and built-in lights. We tested each feature to see whether it actually improved the chip-making process or just added unnecessary complexity.

Dual heating was especially valuable for even crisping, while shake reminders helped improve consistency in single-element units. Features like rotisserie and baking modes added versatility but didn’t always impact chip quality.

We prioritised features that added convenience or improved results, rather than just inflating the spec sheet. A few gimmicky additions were nice, but not essential.

Weighing Value for Money

Finally, we compared price against performance to decide which models offered true value. A higher price tag didn’t guarantee better chips, so we considered how each model balanced quality, convenience, and cost.

We also factored in energy efficiency by noting how quickly and economically a unit cooked a full batch. Models that delivered excellent results without using excessive power or needing constant supervision ranked highest.

If an air fryer delivered top-tier chips and was easy to clean and store—without a sky-high price—it earned serious points for value.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What Are the Best Chips to Do in an Air Fryer?

The best chips to do in an air fryer are freshly cut potato chips made from starchy varieties like Maris Piper or Russet. These potatoes provide a fluffy interior and crisp exterior. While frozen chips can also work well, hand-cut chips offer better control over texture and seasoning.

How Do I Get My Chips Crispy in the Air Fryer?

To get your chips crispy in the air fryer, soak them in water for 30 minutes to remove excess starch, then dry thoroughly. Toss with a small amount of oil, spread evenly in the basket, and avoid overcrowding. Cook at a high temperature and shake or stir midway for even crisping.

Should I Boil Chips Before Air Frying?

Boiling chips before air frying, known as parboiling, can help achieve a fluffier interior and a crispier exterior. While not essential, it’s especially useful for thicker chips. Boil for 4–5 minutes, drain, and dry thoroughly before air frying to improve texture and reduce cooking time.

Which Oil Is Best for Air Fryer Chips?

The best oil for air fryer chips is one with a high smoke point and neutral flavour, such as sunflower, vegetable, or canola oil. These oils promote even browning and crispiness without overpowering the taste of the chips. Use sparingly—just 1–2 teaspoons is usually enough.

Why Do My Chips Go Soggy in the Air Fryer?

Your chips go soggy in the air fryer likely due to excess moisture or overcrowding in the basket. Ensure chips are dried thoroughly after washing or boiling, and cook in a single layer with space between each piece. Using too little heat or oil can also affect crispness.

How to Make Chips Not Dry in an Air Fryer?

To make chips not dry in an air fryer, avoid overcooking and always add a small amount of oil to retain moisture. Choose the right potato variety, and don’t slice chips too thin. Soaking and drying before cooking helps balance internal softness with exterior crispness.

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Final Word

We hope our guide to the best air fryers for chips has helped you find the perfect match for your kitchen. With so many impressive models to choose from, it’s no small task—but for us, the Bosch Series 6 Air Fryer XXL stands out.

Its dual heating, speedy cook times, and generous capacity made it our top pick for consistently crispy, golden chips with zero fuss.

The HYSapientia 24L Air Fryer Oven was another strong performer, offering exceptional versatility, while the Chefman 3.8L Air Fryer proved you don’t need to spend big to enjoy great results.

That said, not every model hit the mark. The Tefal Actifry Extra disappointed with its flimsy build, bulky design, and frustrating plug issues. It’s one we suggest skipping.

Already picturing your next batch of perfect chips? Or still weighing your options? Let us know your thoughts in the comments—we’d love to hear from you!