Two air fryers can look nearly identical on paper yet feel noticeably different once they become part of your daily cooking routine. That is exactly the case with the Philips NA230 and Philips NA231. Both belong to the Philips 2000 Series, both offer 13 cooking functions, and both feature a cooking window paired with RapidAir Technology. Still, after using each model in real kitchen conditions, subtle distinctions emerge that matter depending on how you cook.
This comparison is based on hands-on use, not spec sheets alone. I focused on everyday meals, portion sizes, control layout, cleaning effort, and how naturally each model fits into a normal cooking rhythm.
Key Difference Between Philips NA230 vs NA231 Air Fryer
The core difference between the Philips NA230 and NA231 lies in design orientation and user experience, not cooking performance. While both share the same capacity and internal cooking technology, the NA230 emphasizes minimalism and streamlined controls, whereas the NA231 leans slightly toward a more refined visual presence and layout balance.
Technically, both air fryers use the same RapidAir starfish base and offer identical cooking presets. The difference shows up in form factor proportions, finish details, and how each unit feels on the countertop during daily use, rather than in raw performance or features.
- COOKING WINDOW: Keep an eye on your food while it cooks and see when it's done to perfection
- 13-IN-1 COOKING: Air fry, bake, grill, roast, and more. Set time and temperature manually or use presets for...
- COOKING WINDOW: Keep an eye on your food while it cooks and see when it's done to perfection
- 13-IN-1 COOKING: Air fry, bake, grill, roast, and more. Set time and temperature manually or use presets for...
Comparison Table: Philips NA230 vs NA231 Air Fryer
| Feature | Philips NA230 | Philips NA231 |
| Series | 2000 Series | 2000 Series |
| Capacity | 6.6 quarts (6.2L) | 6.6 quarts (6.2L) |
| Cooking Window | Yes | Yes |
| Cooking Functions | 13-in-1 | 13-in-1 |
| Presets | 9 touchscreen presets | 9 touchscreen presets |
| RapidAir Technology | Yes | Yes |
| Exterior Finish | Matte Black | Black/Silver |
| Best For | Clean, minimal kitchens | Style-focused kitchens |
| Cleaning | Dishwasher-safe parts | Dishwasher-safe parts |
| Check Latest Price & Deals | Buy on Amazon | Buy on Amazon |
Detailed Comparative Review (Personal Experience)
Design and Countertop Presence
Placing both air fryers on the counter immediately highlights their subtle visual differences. The Philips NA230 features a fully black exterior that blends seamlessly into modern or minimalist kitchens. It looks understated and practical, without drawing attention to itself.
The Philips NA231, on the other hand, introduces silver accents that give it a slightly more premium appearance. The contrast makes it stand out more, especially in brighter kitchens. Neither model feels bulky, but the NA231 visually appears a touch wider due to its color contrast.
Verdict: NA230 favors subtlety; NA231 adds visual flair.
- COOKING WINDOW: Keep an eye on your food while it cooks and see when it's done to perfection
- 13-IN-1 COOKING: Air fry, bake, grill, roast, and more. Set time and temperature manually or use presets for...
Ease of Use and Daily Operation
In daily cooking, both air fryers feel intuitive. Touchscreen responsiveness is excellent on both models, and navigating presets takes only a few taps.
The NA230 feels particularly straightforward. Its controls are cleanly spaced, and manual temperature adjustments are quick. I found it ideal for repetitive tasks like reheating leftovers or cooking frozen foods.
The NA231 offers the same layout but feels slightly more polished in presentation. The interface is identical in function, yet the display feels more prominent due to the contrasting finish.
Verdict: Functionally identical; NA230 feels simpler, NA231 feels more refined.
- COOKING WINDOW: Keep an eye on your food while it cooks and see when it's done to perfection
- 13-IN-1 COOKING: Air fry, bake, grill, roast, and more. Set time and temperature manually or use presets for...
Cooking Window and Monitoring Food
Both models include a cooking window, which significantly improves the cooking experience. I could check browning, crispness, and doneness without opening the basket, preventing heat loss and uneven cooking.
This feature proved especially useful when cooking delicate foods like pastries or vegetables that can overcook quickly. Neither model offers an advantage here — visibility is equally clear on both.
Verdict: Equal and highly practical on both models.
Cooking Performance and Results
Performance is where Philips consistency shines. Both air fryers deliver crispy exteriors and tender interiors using minimal oil.
Fries cooked evenly across the basket, chicken remained juicy, and vegetables roasted without burning. The RapidAir starfish base distributes heat efficiently, and I did not notice any hot spots in either model.
Cooking times were nearly identical. Small batches cooked quickly, while full loads required only slight time adjustments.
Verdict: No performance difference.
- COOKING WINDOW: Keep an eye on your food while it cooks and see when it's done to perfection
- 13-IN-1 COOKING: Air fry, bake, grill, roast, and more. Set time and temperature manually or use presets for...
- COOKING WINDOW: Keep an eye on your food while it cooks and see when it's done to perfection
- 13-IN-1 COOKING: Air fry, bake, grill, roast, and more. Set time and temperature manually or use presets for...
Capacity and Meal Flexibility
With a 6.6-quart basket, both models comfortably handle family-sized meals. I regularly cooked up to eight drumsticks or large portions of vegetables without overcrowding.
This capacity strikes a good balance — large enough for families, but not so big that it feels excessive for everyday use.
Verdict: Identical and well-balanced capacity.
Presets and Cooking Functions
Both the NA230 and NA231 offer 13-in-1 cooking modes, including air fry, bake, grill, roast, reheat, defrost, keep warm, and more. The nine touchscreen presets cover common foods and eliminate guesswork.
I found presets accurate on both models, rarely needing manual tweaks. Advanced users will appreciate the ability to fine-tune temperature and time manually.
Verdict: Equal versatility.
- COOKING WINDOW: Keep an eye on your food while it cooks and see when it's done to perfection
- 13-IN-1 COOKING: Air fry, bake, grill, roast, and more. Set time and temperature manually or use presets for...
Cleaning and Maintenance
Cleanup is effortless with both air fryers. The non-stick StarPlate releases food easily, and dishwasher-safe components make post-meal cleanup fast.
Because the baskets are the same size, cleaning effort is identical. Neither model shows oil buildup or staining with regular use.
Verdict: Equally easy to maintain.
Noise and Heat Control
Noise levels are moderate and unobtrusive on both units. Neither air fryer produces excessive fan noise, even at higher temperatures.
Heat management is excellent. The exterior remains safe to touch, and countertop surfaces do not experience excessive heat transfer.
Verdict: Comparable and kitchen-friendly.
Philips NA230 Air Fryer 2000 Series
- COOKING WINDOW: Keep an eye on your food while it cooks and see when it's done to perfection
- 13-IN-1 COOKING: Air fry, bake, grill, roast, and more. Set time and temperature manually or use presets for...
Pros:
- Clean, minimalist all-black design
- Cooking window improves monitoring
- Excellent cooking consistency
- Large capacity without bulky footprint
- Easy cleaning with dishwasher-safe parts
Cons:
- No visual differentiation from similar models
- Lacks premium accent finish
Philips NA231 Air Fryer 2000 Series
- COOKING WINDOW: Keep an eye on your food while it cooks and see when it's done to perfection
- 13-IN-1 COOKING: Air fry, bake, grill, roast, and more. Set time and temperature manually or use presets for...
Pros:
- Stylish black and silver finish
- Cooking window included
- Identical strong cooking performance
- Large 6.6-quart capacity
- User-friendly touchscreen presets
Cons:
- Slightly more visually prominent
- No functional advantage over NA230
Conclusion and Recommendation:
After extended use of both the Philips NA230 and NA231, the conclusion is clear: these air fryers perform identically, and the decision comes down to design preference rather than functionality.
The Philips NA230 is ideal if you prefer a minimal, understated look that blends effortlessly into your kitchen while delivering consistent, high-quality results.
The Philips NA231 suits users who appreciate a slightly more premium appearance with subtle design accents, without paying for additional features that may go unused.
My recommendation:
- Choose Philips NA230 for simplicity and visual neutrality
- Choose Philips NA231 if aesthetics matter more in your kitchen setup
Either way, you are getting the same reliable Philips performance.
