By Billy G. · Founder & Lead EditorVerified May 21 by Billy G.
Potato
Potatovs
Onion
Onion
Worth-It Score: 73/100WAITOnion scores well, but current pricing sits above our fair-price band. Wait for a price drop before pulling the trigger.
✓VerifiedConfidence: 85%
Verdict: Onion for most savory dishes due to its ability to build flavor quickly, as noted in Bon Appétit and Serious Eats recipes. Potato delivers superior staying power and potassium (425 mg vs 146 mg per 100 g), making it better for standalone sides. Choose onion when you need aromatic depth and potato when you want filling bulk.
How we scored itSpec verificationOwner sentimentLive pricing (4h refresh)Editorial reviewOur methodology →
Winner: Onion
Potato: 7.5/10
Onion: 8/10
Spec-by-spec comparison
Potato
Onion
calories_per_100g
77 kcal
40 kcal
carbohydrates
17.5 g
9.3 g
fiber
2.1 g
1.7 g
potassium
425 mg
146 mg
Potato
What works
High satiety from complex carbs and fiber
Excellent source of potassium for blood pressure support
Extremely versatile for roasting, mashing, or frying
What doesn't
Higher glycemic impact when boiled or baked
Requires longer cooking time than many vegetables
Onion
What works
Adds deep flavor with minimal calories
Contains quercetin and other antioxidants
Quick to sauté or caramelize
What doesn't
Causes tearing when raw and chopped
Strong sulfur compounds can linger on breath and hands
Bottom line
Our pick: Onion. It edges out the alternative on adds deep flavor with minimal calories. That said, Potato still wins on high satiety from complex carbs and fiber — consider it if that single trade matters most for your use.