Are you considering buying a blender? The Ninja Company offers a choice of versatile machines. They range from small single-serve sizes to mega countertop units for large families and people who entertain. Read on for a detailed informational guide on the best Ninja blenders.
Blenders are becoming an integral part of a modern lifestyle. They offer an easy way to create tasty, nutritious smoothies, drinks, soups, dips, baby foods, and meal-replacements at the touch of a button.
With so many models available, it becomes challenging to decide which one is best for you. In this post, I am focusing specifically on one of the most innovative brands people are talking about – Ninja Blenders.
I will simplify the options and review a range of their models to help you make an informed decision.
Contents
Ninja Company Overview
SharkNinja Operating LLC manufactures Ninja Blenders. The Ninja Range is part of their small appliance, kitchen appliances, and cleaning solutions division. SharkNinja Operating LLC was formed in 1998 and operated out of Needham, Massachusetts.
Their global reach has extended into eight countries, offering over 150 products. The business focuses on attracting talented and driven people from across the globe to further their vision.
What’s the Ninja brand and blenders’ reputation?
This product is fast becoming one of the top sellers internationally. The blenders are incredibly well-priced and durable. They feature innovative, cutting-edge technology that takes blending to new levels, while still keeping them affordable for an everyday home. Customer satisfaction is an obsession!
Why choose a Ninja blender over other brands?
Ninja Blenders offer exceptional value for money. You are buying a machine with state-of-the-art technology, affordable for your everyday kitchen. The appliances are compact and easy to use while offering extreme power and versatility. This brand has established an excellent reputation for quality, customer service, and innovation.
What are the advantages of Ninja blenders?
- Very affordable price range
- Cutting-edge blending and nutrition extraction technology
- The product range offers a choice for any size kitchen
- Customer service is a top priority
- One of the market leaders in small kitchen appliances
Who should purchase a Ninja blender?
Ninja Blenders offer a choice for everyone. If you want to explore healthy living and nutritious eating for yourself or your family, consider purchasing a Ninja Blender.
What Type of Ninja Blenders is Best Suited for You?
- Countertop blenders. Standard full-size machines are usually larger and heavier. They do not easily pack away and will have to remain out, taking up kitchen workspace. They are best suited for larger families and homes that entertain a lot.
- Personal blenders. These are smaller, more compact, lightweight single-serve blenders. They can stand on a countertop and pack away if necessary. The container capacity is more modest, designed to be suitable for a single on-the-go serving.
- Immersion blenders. Hand blenders pack away into a closet, pantry, or kitchen drawer. They blend ingredients in a container of your choice and require no countertop space. Because they are hand-held, they are not suitable for people with weak hands, hand pain, or arthritis.
Ninja Blender Lines
- Basic Blenders. Are you new to the Ninja Range and want to give it a try? Basic blenders are much like traditional blenders, allowing you to make smoothies and nutritious, healthy drinks. They do work faster than other brands and can easily crush the ice with their durable blades. They are ideal for veggies, giving you versatility and variety in a basic machine.
- Intelli-sense kitchen systems. The Ninja Range of Intelli-sense Systems offers the functions of a blender, food processor, and spiralizer in one. They operate with innovative Auto-iQ Technology programs. These pre-set programs combine the blend, pulse, and pause functions. By sensing the type of container you have attached, they adjust your program automatically.
- Ninja Chef. The Chef range leaves nothing out! These machines are powerful, fast, and have super strong blades with cyclonic force. They are ideal for making anything from soups to salsas, dips, baby food, smoothies, iced-drinks, baking dough, and more. Many come with extra containers. They also feature multiple advanced Auto-iQ Technology programs as well as manual programs.
- Nutri Ninja. The Nutri range offers a cutting-edge FreshVac Technology pump that extracts the oxygen out of your container before blending. This process locks in vitamins and essential nutrients and prevents oxidization. Drinks remain sealed and fresh for up to 8 hours after preparation — a must-have for health-aware people.
Best Ninja Blenders Review
1. Nutri Ninja Blender with FreshVac Technology, 1100-Watt Auto-iQ Base, 2 Manual Speeds, and (2) Single-Serve FreshVac Cups with Lids (BL580)
The blender operates with an innovative FreshVac Technology, which removes the oxygen before blending. This ensures that your drink retains the full potential of the vitamins, nutrients, and flavors.
It features a powerful 1100 watt motor and comes with 2 x 24oz Single-Serve FreshVac cups with spout lids. It operates with 2 Auto-iQ Technology programs that combine blending, pulsing, and pausing patterns. It also has a pulse button and two manual speeds.
The machine measures 6.69 x 6.3 x 15.94 inches and weighs 7.58 lbs. Blades, cups, and lids are dishwasher safe.
The pump is a separate component that you attach and activate before blending. 6 x AA batteries come with the blender to power the pump.
Why I like it – The technology of extracting the oxygen before blending did intrigue me. It creates the ultimate healthy drink that stays fresh for up to 8 hours.
Pros
- Extra container – comes with 2 x 24oz containers.
- Features unique FreshVac Technology – extracts the oxygen before blending.
Cons
- Noisy – this blender was far louder than others I reviewed.
- Extractor pump – may not suit everyone as it requires an extra step in the process.
What others are saying:
People complained that the blender is excessively noisy. Another con was the design of the cups. They taper at the base, making them narrow and harder to clean. The work-around is to wash out the cup before the ingredients dry on the blades.
On the pro-side, the vacuum extractor function impressed those looking for exceptionally healthy drinks. They also said that the smoothie mixtures were perfectly blended and super smooth. The blender deals easily with leafy greens like kale.
Bottom Line:
The FreshVac pump extractor did catch my attention. But, I found that having to do two steps became extra work. One-step blending suits me better, especially when I am in a hurry.
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2. Ninja Professional 72 Oz Countertop Blender with 1000-Watt Base and Total Crushing Technology (BL610)
The Ninja Professional BL610 features a powerful 1000 watt motor and it has a 6-blade assembly, which is ideal for crushing ice and frozen fruits. There are four manual speeds and four automatic programs. It offers a pulse function for manual control when crushing or grinding.
The container is made of BPA-free plastic and is a large size at 64oz. ideal for entertaining. The blender measures 10.63 x 8.19 x 15.75 inches and weighs 9.51 lbs. It has a 1-Year Limited Warranty and comes with a handy 25-page recipe cookbook.
Why we like it – If you have a big family or are into entertaining, it has a huge container. This is a durable and robust machine that crushed up ice in a jiffy.
Pros
- Large container – holds 64oz, ideal for use when entertaining.
- BPA-free container – is also dishwasher safe.
Cons
- No extra cups – it would be useful to have extra smaller cups for a quick grab-and-go drink.
- Large size for home use – it is large and heavy and will have to stand on a countertop. Packing it away could become a challenge, especially for everyday use.
What others are saying:
Users said that the blade placement in the pitcher makes it challenging to clean. They are also very sharp, which is a problem when trying to get stuck items removed.
People complained about the pitcher quality and the fact that it cracked soon after buying. The manufacturer replaced the pitcher, but some clients experienced the same problem again. On the positive side, the blender is strong, durable, and ideal for mixing up larger quantities.
Bottom Line:
This machine is large for my kitchen. I prefer a blender with a slightly smaller container and also with the option of extra single-serving jars.
Click here >> to see the latest price and ratings on Amazon
3. Ninja Professional Countertop Blender BL660 with 1100-Watt Base, 72 Oz Total Crushing Pitcher and Cups
This is another big blender, but it does come with 2 extra smaller 16oz cups with lids, which got my attention. It has 1100 watts of professional performance power and offers three speeds, a pulse, and a single-serve function. It is extremely powerful and pulverizes ice in seconds.
The main container holds 72oz. Containers are dishwasher safe and BPA-free. The blades are strong and durable and worked well to crush up seeds, stems, and harder ingredients.
The blender measures 8 x 6 x 17 inches and weighs 7.6 lbs.
Why we like it – This is a mighty machine that was able to do everything I needed. It comes with two extra on-the-cups, which are ideal for mixing up a drink for the gym or the commute.
Pros
- Large container – holds 72oz, ideal for use when entertaining.
- BPA-free containers – also dishwasher safe.
- Extra cups – 2 extra 16oz single-serve cups with lids.
Cons
- Slightly higher price
- Large size – it is large and heavy and will have to stand on a countertop.
- Noisy – no special noise-dampening features.
What others are saying:
This blender received many 5-star reviews. People enjoyed having the large container as well as the extra smaller 16oz on-the-go cups. A con was that the pitcher cracked, and on replacement, some cracked again.
Others said that they had used the blender for years and did not experience this problem. People recommended not to use it for hot ingredients as some of the components warp and then leak. Solution – not all blenders are capable of holding very hot liquids, check first before trying this!
Bottom Line:
Although this blender is a significant size, I would not mind having one on my kitchen countertop. The smaller cups are handy and I have the blending power of a professional machine.
Click here >> to see the latest price and ratings on Amazon
4. Ninja Countertop Blender with 1000-Watt Auto-iQ Base with 72oz Total Crushing Pitcher (BL688)
The BL688 has a 1000 watt motor. It comes with a sizeable 72oz pitcher that is made of plastic and is BPA-free. The blender offers the Auto-iQ feature, which has pre-set programs for shakes, smoothies, and frozen drinks. This feature is easily controlled on the front panel and makes it very easy to use the machine.
The blades are strong and sharp and were able to crush ice and frozen fruits. This is a countertop model that measures 17.75 x 8 x 10 inches and weighs 9.04 lbs. The pitcher, blades, and lid are all dishwasher safe.
Why we like it – This model offers the Ninja Auto-iQ feature, which takes the guesswork out of blending. It has intelligent blending programs, doing the work for you. The large pitcher is great for entertaining.
Pros
- Large container – holds 72oz, ideal for use when entertaining.
- The BPA-free container is for health-aware people.
- Dishwasher safe – container, lid, and blades are dishwasher safe.
Cons
- Higher price
- Large size for home use – it is relatively heavy and will not be easy to pack up regularly.
- Only one pitcher offers no easy way to blend up a single-serve on-the-go smoothie.
- Very loud – like most big and powerful Ninja blenders, it is noisy.
What others are saying:
This blender received a high percentage of excellent reviews. One con is that it is noisy – but with a powerful motor and blades that crush ice, it would be! For some people, it was too large with only one 72oz pitcher.
They would have preferred to have a few smaller cups for single-serve options. People liked the BPA-free container that is dishwasher safe. There were very few cons to worry about, other than the size, which is big and powerful.
Bottom Line:
This is a no-nonsense heavy-duty blender with the beneficial Auto-iQ feature. It did a great job, and apart from only coming with one large pitcher, I could not find any worrying negatives.
Click here >> to see the latest price and ratings on Amazon
5. Ninja CT661V Smart Screen DUO Technology Blender with Freshvac
If the BL580 and the FreshVac Pump impressed you, the CT661V is a step up. It has an extra powerful 1400-Peak-Watt Motor Base and sharp, durable ice-crushing blades.
Also, it comes with a sizable 72 oz pitcher and a handy 20 oz single-serve cup. Blades, BPA-free plastic cup, and pitcher are all dishwasher safe.
The FreshVac pump is an additional attachment that is designed to preserve vitamins, flavors, and colors by removing oxygen before blending. Fill your container, attach the pump, and turn on. It sucks out the air, and then you blend! Your sealed mixture will last for up to 8 hours, keeping all the nutrients fresh.
For techno-geeks, this blender is a dream. It has 7 Pre-Set Auto-iQ Programs. The Smart Touchscreen reveals the automatic pre-set programs for drinks, smoothies, and shakes.
Simply choose the one you want and press the intuitive control pad. Measurements are 8.86 x 10.82 x 17.32 inches, and it weighs 11.4 lbs.
Why we like it – This model offers all the bells and whistles with the Ninja Auto-iQ feature, FreshVac Pump, seven pre-set programs, a large pitcher, and an extra smaller 20oz cup.
Pros
- Large container – holds 72oz, ideal for use when entertaining.
- Extra container – handy 20oz additional container for single-serve smoothies.
- The BPA-free container is for health-aware people.
- Dishwasher safe – container, lid, and blades are dishwasher safe.
Cons
- Higher price
- Large size for home use – it is relatively heavy and will have to stand on a countertop.
- Very loud – like most big Ninja blenders, it is noisy.
What others are saying:
This blender also received a high percentage of excellent reviews. It does require an extra step if you are going first to vacuum and then blend. But health-fans had no problem doing this!
On the con side, some users experienced a burning smell, and the machine stopped working. There didn’t seem to be an apparent reason why. One of the main cons, like most big Ninja blenders – is the noise!
Bottom Line:
This machine combines the FreshVac Pump and the Auto-iQ feature with seven programs. It is a must-have for tech-savvy and health-fanatic people. For me, it is a bit large and costly.
Click here >> to see the latest price and ratings on Amazon
6. Ninja Mega Kitchen System (BL770) Blender/Food Processor with 1500W Auto-iQ Base, 72oz Pitcher, 64oz Processor Bowl, (2) 16oz Cup
If you are serious about blending and nutrient extraction, the BL770 is a mega system, with all the bells and whistles. It measures 9.5 x 8.25 x 17.75 inches, and weighs 9.2 lbs.
The blender comes with a sizeable 72oz pitcher made of BPA-free plastic. The powerful 1500 watt motor is ideal for crushing ice and frozen fruits.
Also included in the set is an 8-cup food processor bowl, great for chopping. It has a unique dough blade and will make 2 lbs of dough in only 30 seconds.
For quick on-the-go drinks, shakes, and smoothies, there are two 16oz cups with drip-proof lids. All the containers are dishwasher safe. It also offers a reversible slicing/shredding disc and a grating disc.
With the 30-recipe inspiration guide, you are sure to have fun with this blender.
Why we like it – This model offers a choice of container sizes from extra large to single-serve sizes. It is potent and crushed ice in a jiffy. I enjoyed making the dough in the food processor bowl – something I have not tried to do in a blender.
Pros
- Very powerful motor – 1500 watts.
- Large container – holds 72oz, ideal for extended families.
- Extra containers – 8-cup food processor bowl and two 16oz cups.
- BPA-free and dishwasher safe cups are for health-aware people.
- Can make a dough – a perk for bakers!
Cons
- Higher price.
- Very loud – like most big Ninja blenders, it is noisy.
What others are saying:
Ninja blenders receive high ratings, and this one is no exception. People use it for a variety of functions and enjoy that it is both a food processor and a blender in one. They also made use of the dough blade and chopping bowl.
On the con side, there were complaints about noise and the fact that it is difficult to clean. The manufacturer recommends adding a drop of washing liquid, warm water, and running the machine.
Those who complained had allowed the ingredients to dry out on the blades. That was a challenge, as the blades are exceptionally sharp.
Bottom Line:
If you can spend more, this is a great choice. It offers both functions of a food processor and a blender, so you need not have two appliances. It makes an excellent gift for new homeowners.
Click here >> to see the latest price and ratings on Amazon
It is worth considering also highly-rated Professional Ninja Kitchen Systems:
Ninja BN801 Professional Plus Kitchen System with Auto-iQ, and 64 oz. max liquid capacity Total Crushing Pitcher
Ninja BL685 Professional Kitchen System 1200-watts with Auto-iQ, Powerful Blending, with 64 oz, Food Processor Bowl, 72 oz. Total Crushing Pitcher, and Single Serve
7. Ninja bl942 Nutri Ninja Auto-iQ Compact Blending System (BL492), New, Clear
This model caught my attention with the double-wall Stainless Steel cup. I love Stainless Steel – it is clean, durable, does not tarnish, and does not retain odors. This handy cup keeps smoothies extra cold for up to 4 hours!
The bl942 measures 16.42 x 10.51 x 15.75 inches and weighs 15.75 lbs. It is larger and heavier than some of the other models I reviewed.
For smoothie-lovers, it comes with Auto-iQ Pro Complete, which includes Smooth Boost Technology, allowing you to customize your drink-making.
It also offers innovative Nutrient & Vitamin Extraction with Pro Extractor Blades, which breaks down whole fruits, seeds, and stems.
The blender comes with a 40oz container, 2 Regular Tritan Nutri Ninja Cups with Sip & Seal Lids, and the extra Stainless Steel container.
Why we like it – This model offers a choice of container sizes. It also has a handy double-wall Stainless Steel cup, which keeps drinks cold for up to 4 hours.
Pros
- Medium size container – holds 40oz, ideal for big families.
- Extra containers – 2 extra Tritan Nutri Ninja Cups with Sip & Seal Lids
- Stainless Steel container – double-walled to keep cold drinks cold!
Cons
- Higher price.
- Noisy – it is loud when operating.
What others are saying:
It’s another Ninja blender that received high ratings. There were the usual complaints that a few of the machines burnt out or stopped working after a short time, but these seem to be a minority.
In general, people are pleased with this model and enjoyed the extra cups and Stainless Steel container for on-the-go cold smoothies.
Bottom Line:
I enjoyed using this blender. It is quite heavy but looked stylish on my kitchen counter. The price is high, but not excessive, and it did everything I needed. The touch control panel is easy to operate and easy to keep clean.
Click here >> to see the latest price and ratings on Amazon
8. Ninja Nutri Pro BL456 Compact Personal Blender, with To Go Cups
If you are looking for a smaller, cheaper blender that is super easy to operate – this is it! It has no buttons or controls. Push down on the container, and the blender does its job. Fast, easy, and ideal for single-serve drinks to take on a commute.
The BL456 has a single 24oz cup that is made of BPA-free plastic and is dishwasher safe. The container has a twist-on lid with a spout for easy drinking.
The motor is 900 watts, and the strong blades are capable of breaking down fruits and veggies. It has powerful Nutrient & Vitamin Extraction performance to extract the maximum nutrition from whole fruits and vegetables, ideal for making meal-replacements and on-the-run drinks.
You also have a manual pulse option to control the blender, which is ideal for crushing ice, seeds, stems, skins, and frozen ingredients to a smooth consistency. This handy machine measures 6 x 6 x 14 inches and weighs 7.65 lbs.
Why we like it – Great price, easy to use with no-fussy techno-programs or buttons. It is perfect for quick on-the-run healthy drinks.
Pros
- Well priced.
- Small container – ideal for single-serve drinks.
- BPA-free and dishwasher safe is a must-have for any modern appliance.
Cons
- Too simple? – if you are looking for a heavy-duty machine with many functions, this will not be a great choice.
- Not for big families – the container is not large enough when making blends for a family or when entertaining.
- Not suitable for weak hands – if you suffer from hand pain or arthritis, blenders with a push-down action are not a good option for you.
What others are saying:
On the con side, people complained about leaking and the fact the mold collected under the gasket. Not great! On the pro side, this blender got a high 4.4 rating from users who found it easy to operate and easy to clean. It is light and perfect for taking along on the weekend away or even to the office.
Bottom Line:
It’s small, compact, and straightforward to use. I enjoyed blending up quick smoothies with minimal fuss. I would certainly add this model to my kitchen island!
Click here >> to see the latest price and ratings on Amazon
9. Ninja Nutri Bowl Duo with Auto-iQ Boost (NN102)
The Ninja NN102 is a powerful blender with a 1200 watt motor. It has 5 Auto-iQ Programs for smoothies, extraction, mixing, chopping, and making a dough. It also offers two manual programs – Start/Stop and Pulse. The Auto-iQ programs make blending easy, providing the correct settings, and taking away the guesswork.
The Pro Extractor Blades can extract vitamins and nutrients from fruits and vegetables, quickly breaking down whole foods, seeds, stems, ice, and frozen fruits.
It comes with two 24oz Tritan Nutri Ninja Cups, each with a spout lid. There is also a Nutri Bowl, Precision Prep Blades, and a special blade for mixing up the dough. The containers are made of BPA-free plastic and are dishwasher safe.
This blender measures 14.4 x 10.4 x 16.1 inches and weighs 6.14 lbs. Also supplied with the set is an innovative 75-page recipe book.
Why we like it – Although it is a heavy-duty machine, it is compact and lighter than others I reviewed. The containers are the right size at 24oz, and there are two – a real bonus!
Pros
- Two containers – 24oz each, ideal for a family.
- BPA-free and dishwasher safe – a must-have for any modern appliance.
- Special dough blade – great for bakers.
- 5 Auto-iQ Programs and two manual programs – quickly make smoothies, extracts, mixes, chops, and blends the dough.
Cons
- Higher price.
- Noisy – like most big blenders, it is noisy.
What others are saying:
On the con side, people complained about the loud noise. Some machines leaked, and the manufacturer-supplied replacement parts. This appeared to solve the problem in some instances.
Overall, this blender is one of the most popular. People found it to be well made and sturdy. It is heavy-duty enough to deal with crushing ice, frozen fruits, seeds, skins, and stems in a jiffy.
Bottom Line:
If my budget allows, this is the model I would choose. It is mighty but not bulky. It comes with a range of programs and manual functions, giving me the best of both options. The containers are a perfect size, not too big and not too small.
Click here >> to see the latest price and ratings on Amazon
The Latest Technology Used by Ninja Blenders
For those who enjoy techno-talk, Ninja Blenders offer innovative technology not found in any other brand. FreshVac Technology ensures that your drinks are full of essential nutrients and vitamins.
The biggest threat to fresh food is oxidization! FreshVac offers a pump that you use to extract the oxygen out of your container before blending.
After blending, the container seals, ensuring that you get the maximum benefit of your healthy ingredients. Fresh drinks will last for up to 8 hours.
Things to Consider Before Buying a Ninja Blender
Read on for the key features I considered before buying a Ninja Blender.
- What do you plan on blending? Your first decision is – what do you want to do with the blender? If you plan on making smoothies, a blender that makes cocktails is probably unnecessary. If you’re going to make icy drinks, you will need a powerful machine with strong blades. For a family, you want a large container, not a single-serve size. Make a list and match the machine to your requirements.
- Weight and Dimensions. Extra space is not something I have in my kitchen. And, a new appliance needs to be put somewhere. If you cannot leave your blender out on a countertop, it must be light enough to be picked up and packed away. Check the dimensions and ensure that it can stand without obstruction and will not topple off the edge of a countertop when in use.
- Motor Power. The number of watts determines the strength of your blender. Smaller blenders range from 300 watts upwards. Larger machines offer 700 to 100 watts or more.
- Pulse Feature / Various Speeds. A blender with variable speeds is convenient. It allows you to control the machine, especially when blending harder ingredients. For me, the Pulse Feature is a must-have. It allows you to manually stop and start the machine by pressing and releasing a button. This is ideal if you want to add liquid; mix the ingredients to taste while making.
- Blade Design and Material. The best blades are made of Stainless Steel. It is durable, strong, and long-lasting. Stainless Steel is easy to clean, does absorb odors, does not tarnish, and will not encourage bacteria’s growth. Easily removable blades are great, as you can ensure that they remain clean and hygienic.
- Pitcher Material and Capacity. The choice of pitcher material is usually glass or plastic. Glass can break but always looks new. Plastic is lighter than glass but does tend to discolor over time. Glass is BPA-free, but most modern blenders offer BPA-free plastic too. Capacity will depend on your needs. For a single person, a small pitcher size of 14oz to 24oz is ideal. For a larger family, you will need a container of around 40oz or more substantial.
- Multi-Functionality. A blender with multiple functions is far more exciting. It allows you the opportunity to experiment with new ideas. Depending on the price, blenders will offer anything from a pure blend to a host of features that include chopping, liquefying, and even making the dough.
- Ease of Cleaning. Keeping your blender clean is vital. You do not want bits of food stuck between the blades, under the containers, or in the lids. Blenders with self-cleaning programs are a win. If yours does not have this feature, ensure that cups and lids are dishwasher safe. If it has removable blades, that is a pro for me. Always try to wash your blender immediately after use, as that will prevent ingredients from drying out between the blades.
- Price. Decide on your budget before buying and stay within that range. Like most kitchen appliances, you can spend very little and find that it breaks after one use. Or, you can spend a fortune and not get the value you expected.
- Warranty. I always look for a product that comes with a warranty. The longer, the better, like that, implies that the manufacturer will stand by and support the product. Most Ninja Blenders come with a 1-Year Warranty. Some of the more expensive models come with a 2-Year Warranty.
Ninja Blender Alternatives
Ninja is probably one of the better-known names when it comes to great blenders. Especially when it comes to great blenders that are still affordable. Still, there are good alternatives that might be a better fit for you and your family, especially if you aren’t interested in all the accessories and additions that come with the Ninja Mega Kitchen System.
Here are some of the best Ninja blender alternatives for you to consider.
NutriBullet ZNBF30400Z Blender 1200 Watts
This Nutribullet blender is an excellent option for anyone looking for a more minimalist blender that still works well. This model might not have all the bells and whistles that come with the Ninja sets. But that can be a good thing.
The Nutribullet is designed to fit easily into smaller kitchens and smaller spaces. It’s a more basic set of functions that makes it easier for new blender users to make the most of this blender.
Plus, like the Nutribullet system that made the brand a household name, this blender is more than powerful enough to handle just about anything you can throw at it.
The 1200 watt motor is suitable for crushing ice, pureeing vegetables, and even handling hot foods.
Your speed control on the Nutribullet blender is relatively basic. You have a pulse setting and then low medium and high-speed control. That’s enough to customize how you’re blending and to handle most blending tasks, but you will need to monitor the blender the whole time it’s working.
Cleanblend ULTRA: A Low Profile Countertop Blender
The Cleanblend ULTRA might not be quite as powerful as some of the other blender options out there, but that doesn’t make it a wrong choice. Its lower profile design is a massive help in a small kitchen area. That motor is still strong enough to handle making nut butters and crush ice. It just might take a little longer.
It also helps that this blender comes with a BPA tamper to help you process solid foods and get a more consistent blend.
This blender is designed to be healthy and effective. The BPA free jar is safe for almost all food types and is durable enough that it’s difficult to break.
We also appreciated that this blender is designed to run a little more quietly than some alternatives. It’s not as much of a difference that a true sound shield would make, but you can tell just enough quieter.
This version of the Cleanblend system also features an oversized jar, great for family-sized servings of soups and sauces, but that works equally well with smaller portions.
Blendtec Total Classic Countertop Blender
Blendtec is another trusted name. This more minimalist classic blender design is a good option if you’re looking for a blender that can handle many different kinds of food without a ton of other gadgets, tools, or accessories.
The squared-off design is a good option for space-saving reasons, but it can make blending a little more of a challenge.
Cleaning this blender can also take a little longer than other blender designs, thanks to the square jar. Food can get caught in the corners, and it will take a little longer for the soap to clean it off.
Those are both relatively mild downsides, all things considered.
The ten-speed control gives you a lot of precise control while you’re blending. The six preset speed settings are a great option if you want to set up your blender to work while doing something else nearby.
For anyone looking to support a local company, it’s worth noting that Blendtec is also a USA based company that handles manufacturing in the United States. You get an impressive 8-year warranty on top of everything else, making sure you get your money’s worth from this system.
Vitamix E310 Explorian Blender, Professional-Grade
Vitamix is one of the most recognizable and trusted names in blenders. They are probably one of the only brands with more immediate name recognition than Ninja, making them a common-sense alternative for Ninja blenders.
While both brands have similar blender designs, Vitamix tends to use slightly higher quality components and more durable glass jars than the plastic Ninja uses.
The E310 Explorian doesn’t have any preset speed settings. Instead, it has a 10-speed variable speed control dial that lets you completely customize your blending. It also has a tamper with the main blender jar that helps blend solid foods and process everything evenly.
Of course, like many other Vitamix blenders, this one is not only safe to use with hot liquids, it’s able to produce enough friction to heat your ingredients and cook them directly in the blender. Get a perfectly cooked blended vegetable soup in as little as 6 minutes.
All told, if you’re looking for a versatile and easy to use a blender that will last through years of regular use, the Vitamix E310 Explorian is an excellent option.
Oster Versa Pro BLSTVB-104-000 Series Blender with Food Processor Attachment
Oster is another big name in blender manufacturing. This blender is probably the closest alternative to the Ninja Mega Kitchen system, though still a little more compact than the Ninja version. The Versa line also has a significant advantage in that its design is beautiful and looks good in almost any kitchen.
This system comes with an 8-cup full-size blender jar, a smaller 4 cup jar, two smoothie jars, and a food processor. It’s a complete kit, whether you’re only cooking for yourself or have a whole family to feed.
The smaller blender jars are perfect for protein shakes, green smoothies, and other single-serving beverages.
Not to mention that the smoothie jars are a perfect size for blending individual ingredients for soups and sauces.
This Oster system also has an innovative blade system that lets you run the blades forward and backward while you’re blending. That means you can change directions to help get an even blend and even help suck stubborn food down where it can be blended evenly.
FAQ for Ninja Blenders
Q. Is Ninja Blender a good brand?
A. Ninja blenders are almost all great picks. They make up the middle of the consumer-grade range, currently. As such, they don’t cost too much. But still, they offer great features, including built-in programs and specialized blade sets. Most models also come packaged with at least one extra jar. So, you tend to get a lot of value for your dollar when buying from Ninja.
Q. Is a Ninja Blender as good as a Vitamix?
A. You’ll often find different answers to this question. Some users prefer Ninja blenders because they use a simplified user interface. Many also like their affordability, especially when purchased online. However, Vitamix continues to lead the market in new blending innovations. As such, committed blender users often turn to that brand for the latest and greatest in blending tech.
Q. What is the most powerful Ninja blender?
A. Ninja offers a few models at the top of the power range. The most popular among these is the Ninja Mega Kitchen System. This model features a 1,500-watt motor at its core, putting it at the same level as some pro-grade units. With that strong motor, this model can make 2 lbs. of dough in mere minutes. It can also grind up frozen fruit and ice without jamming up one bit.
Q. What is the best Ninja to get for smoothies?
A. In truth, almost all of Ninja’s blenders can make a mean smoothie. But if you have to pick just one, you should decide based upon how many smoothies you need to make at once. For a personal serving, the Nutri Ninja is ideal due to its size. Meanwhile, if you plan to share, consider buying a full-size Ninja blender. The Ninja Professional is the best among these by most measures.
Q. Which Ninja is best for juicing?
A. Juicing with a Ninja can a bit more challenging. This is because they are blenders, not juicers. However, you can still make some good quality juice with Ninja Duo w/Micro-Juice Technology that offers an exclusive juicing capability. Specifically, this model comes with a specialized filter basket that can remove pulp directly from your blend.
Q. What Ninja blender is best for a juicing beginner?
A. Start with the well priced Ninja BL456 Nutri Edge. For something a bit larger, the Ninja Professional Countertop Blender (BL660) is a great choice.
Q. Does the Ninja have a juicer attachment?
A. No, it does not. Despite this, you can successfully use a Ninja blender to juice produce. To do that, you’ll want to measure out some extra water into your blend. This will counteract the pulp in your usual blend, which would otherwise make the mix thick like a smoothie.
Q. Can you juice celery in a Ninja blender?
A. Yes, you can. Not only can you, but doing so could not be easier. All you need to do is chop up your celery into inch-size pieces. Once you’ve done that, you can load them into your Ninja’s jar up to the fill line. From there, you can activate the unit and watch those chunks blend down into a rich juice. To thin it out, you can also add a bit of extra water before you start blending.
Q. Which is better – Nutribullet or Ninja?
A. Ninja and Nutribullet blenders are relatively different on most fronts. Nutribullet blenders are compact and designed for personal use. Ninja blenders are larger, thus allowing their contents to be shared with others. Nutribullets tend only to be able to blend and grind softer ingredients, as well. High-end Ninja blenders can take on tougher ingredients, such as frozen fruit, without trouble.
Q. Does the Ninja blender work as a food processor?
A. Only one Ninja is designed for use as a food processor. This is the Nutri Ninja. This unit’s smaller size prevents processed ingredients from dispersing inside the jar. Also, the butterfly-style blades in these units are handy when grinding coffee beans and herbs. As such, you could easily replace your coffee grinder with a Nutri Ninja.
Q. Where are Ninja blenders made?
A. You’ll often see Ninja blenders described as being “made in the USA.” But this is a misunderstanding. The Ninja is indeed designed in the USA. However, the units themselves are assembled in China. This does not mean they are “bad,” though. Don’t be fooled by people trying to convince you that Chinese-made products are worse.
Q. How does Ninja Auto iQ work?
A. Auto-iQ is a technology only found in Ninja blenders. This tech allows a unit to detect the weight of its ingredients at the touch of a button. In turn, the unit’s pre-programmed settings then engage and run the unit for a set amount of time. They take the guesswork out of blending; your Ninja will always return a perfect blend without messing with its settings.
Q. Are Ninja blenders quiet?
A. Most Ninja blenders are not that loud. They are about as loud as an ordinary kitchen blender. That’s certainly the case when running a continuous blend. However, most Ninja blenders have a quieter-than-average pulse function. This allows you to make minor blend texture adjustments without making a ruckus.
Q. Can I put my ninja blender in the dishwasher?
A. Most Ninja containers, lids, and blades are dishwasher safe. Like any appliance, never put the base motor or the power cords into the dishwasher.
Q. How long does a Ninja Blender last?
A. Many users have claimed to have had their Ninja blenders for years. This is a long-term, high-quality investment designed to last.
Conclusion: What is the best Ninja blender to buy?
For a beginner, I would recommend the well priced Ninja Nutri Pro BL456. For something larger and more complex, the Ninja Professional Countertop Blender BL660 is a great choice.
For serious cooks and people who include blending in most of their meals, the Ninja CT661V Smart Screen DUO Technology Blender does cost more but offers a host of versatile functions.
Buying a Ninja Blender will give you a kitchen partner for life! You will soon be making delicious and healthy drinks and meals that will delight friends and family. I hope this blog helps you make an informed choice when looking for the best Ninja Blender.
