Ninja BN701 Professional Plus Blender Review Powerful 1400 Watt Auto IQ Countertop Blender

Description

Strong Points of the Ninja Professional Plus Blender

Trying out the Ninja BN701 Professional Plus Blender, 1400 Peak Watts, I’ve found some noteworthy strengths that make it stand out. The 1400 peak watts of power really deliver on the promise of crushing ice and blending ingredients like a pro. The Total Crushing Blades are sharp and efficient, turning frozen fruits and ice into silky smoothies without leaving large chunks behind. The 72-ounce pitcher is massive, perfect for preparing drinks for the whole family or a small gathering. The Auto-iQ technology impressed me as well; it’s like having a mini chef inside the blender that knows exactly how long and how fast to blend, pulse, and pause. This feature takes the guesswork out of making smoothies, frozen drinks, or even ice cream, making it incredibly user-friendly.

• Powerful motor ensures smooth and consistent blends.
• Large capacity pitcher suits batch preparation.
• Auto-iQ preset programs simplify the blending process.

Limitations Worth Considering

Despite the many perks, some limitations caught my attention. The blender is on the heavier side at over 8 pounds, which can make it a bit cumbersome to move around or store, especially if your kitchen counter space is limited. The physical control interface is straightforward but lacks the flair of touchscreens or digital displays found on some competitors. Also, the noise level is pretty loud during operation, especially at the highest speed settings; it’s not quite quiet enough for early mornings if you have sleeping family members nearby. Another factor is the maximum liquid capacity of 64 ounces despite the pitcher being 72 ounces. Overfilling can lead to spills, so you have to be mindful about this.

• Heavier than some alternatives, impacting portability.
• Loud operation at high speeds.
• Maximum liquid capacity less than pitcher size can cause overfill issues.

Versatile Functions and Settings

The blender offers three preset Auto-iQ programs designed specifically for smoothies, frozen drinks, and ice cream. I found this to be a great feature for those who want reliable results without fiddling with speed settings. Additionally, there are four speeds plus a pulse option, giving more control if you prefer manual adjustments. The blade assembly, made from stainless steel, feels sturdy and durable. Cleaning is relatively hassle-free since the pitcher and blade parts are dishwasher safe (top rack recommended), and the BPA-free construction adds peace of mind regarding safety. The included recipe inspiration guide is a nice touch, especially if you’re new to making frozen treats or want to try out different flavor combinations.

Design and Build Quality Insights

The design is modern and practical, fitting well on most countertops with dimensions of roughly 6.75 inches deep, 9 inches wide, and 17.5 inches tall. The dark grey color scheme blends into many kitchens without drawing too much attention. The assembly and disassembly of the pitcher and blades are intuitive, but the lid’s tight seal is crucial to avoid leaks, and sometimes it takes a bit of effort to snap it on securely. While the blender looks sleek, its bulkiness might not appeal to those who prefer minimalist or compact appliances. The manufacturer’s limited warranty offers some reassurance about the build quality, though I’d suggest handling it with care to ensure longevity.

Value for Money Compared to Other Blenders

Considering its price to quality ratio, this blender offers a strong value proposition. The combination of a powerful 1400-watt motor, large pitcher capacity, and intelligent blending programs usually comes at a premium, but this model holds its own against more expensive competitors. It’s a solid choice for anyone wanting a budget-friendly yet professional-grade blender without sacrificing performance or features. The dishwasher-safe parts and included recipe guide add extra bang for the buck since you’re not just getting a blender but also some inspiration and easier cleanup. However, if you want a quieter or more compact blender, some alternatives might fit better in tighter budgets.

Comparison to Other Popular Blenders

In the realm of high-performance countertop blenders, the Ninja BN701 stands tall but faces tough competition. Compared to brands like Vitamix or Blendtec, it offers similar crushing power but at a more accessible price point. Unlike some Vitamix models, this Ninja blender features preset functions which make it more user-friendly, especially for beginners. However, Vitamix blenders often have quieter motors and more versatile speed controls, which might appeal to professionals or serious home chefs. Blendtec blenders excel in touchscreen controls and sleek designs but can be pricier and sometimes less durable over time. The Ninja’s large pitcher and robust blade assembly make it a strong contender for families or anyone who prioritizes volume and power, although it falls a bit short on noise and portability compared to some rivals.

User Experience and Practicality

I’ve seen my family and friends enjoy this blender’s capabilities firsthand. My kids absolutely loved the ice cream function, which produces creamy frozen desserts without the need for an ice cream maker. Colleagues who tried it out appreciated how easy it was to switch between programs and how quickly it handled tough ingredients like frozen berries and nuts. Cleanup didn’t become a chore thanks to the dishwasher-safe components, though some small bits of pulp occasionally stick near the blade assembly, requiring a quick rinse. The blender’s footprint does require a dedicated spot on the countertop, and its weight means it’s not ideal for frequent relocation. Overall, it performs reliably, making it a solid kitchen companion for anyone serious about smoothies, frozen drinks, or homemade ice cream.

Drawbacks That Might Matter to Some Users

Certain downsides could influence your decision depending on your needs or kitchen setup. The noise output, as mentioned, is substantial—expect your surroundings to be aware when it’s running. The physical buttons, while functional, feel a bit dated compared to touch-sensitive panels or LCD interfaces seen on other models. The pitcher’s large size is fantastic for family use but might be overkill for single-person households or those with limited storage space. Also, the blender doesn’t come with a personal-sized blending cup, which some users might miss for quick single servings. Lastly, there’s no included tamper tool, something I noticed can be helpful when blending thick mixtures.

• Significant noise during operation.
• Lacks digital control interface.
• Large pitcher may be too bulky for some kitchens.
• No personal blending cup or tamper tool included.

Additional information