Ninja BN701 Professional Plus Blender review powerful 1400-watt blending for smoothies and frozen drinks

Description

A Blend of Power and Versatility: My Experience with the Ninja BN701 Professional Plus Blender

I picked up the Ninja BN701 Professional Plus Blender because I was tired of subpar blenders that couldn’t handle my daily smoothie cravings or the occasional frozen cocktail night with friends. After testing it extensively, I can say it’s a powerhouse with some quirks to look out for.

Design and Build Quality

The first thing I noticed was its modern design. Its sleek, dark gray finish fits right into my kitchen, blending seamlessly with other appliances. At 17.5 inches tall, it’s a bit large but still fits under most cabinets. The stainless steel blades exude durability, and the BPA-free pitcher adds peace of mind for health-conscious users. The 72-ounce Total Crushing Pitcher, which can hold up to 64 ounces of liquid, is a lifesaver for prepping large batches, whether for big family breakfasts or weekend gatherings.

However, the blender isn’t the lightest; at 8.1 pounds, it’s a bit hefty. Moving it around might be inconvenient for some, but honestly, its sturdy build reassures me that it’s built to last.

Key Benefits

• 1400 peak watts of professional power crush ice and blend frozen fruits effortlessly.
• Large capacity pitcher makes it ideal for families or group events.
• Pre-programmed Auto-iQ Technology takes the guesswork out of blending tasks.
• Dishwasher-safe components make cleanup a breeze.

Performance and Functionality

The performance of this blender genuinely impressed me. With three versatile Auto-iQ functions designed for smoothies, frozen drinks, and ice cream, it simplifies the process. I didn’t have to fiddle with settings or guess how long to blend; the intelligent preset programs handled it all. The timed pulsing and pausing patterns in the Auto-iQ tech are a genius touch.

Making frozen drinks was a breeze. The Total Crushing Blades crushed ice into a snow-like texture in seconds, and blending kale or spinach into my smoothies left no nasty chunks behind. Even when tackling tough ingredients like frozen bananas or nuts, the blender powered through effortlessly.

The only hiccup? The motor can get loud, especially at peak power. While it’s not unbearable, it’s something to keep in mind if you’re blending early in the morning with sleeping roommates or kids.

Drawbacks

• The motor noise is louder compared to some competing models.
• Its size and weight make it less portable and challenging for smaller kitchens.

User Experience and Ease of Use

Operating this blender is straightforward, even for someone like me who isn’t particularly tech-savvy. The physical button interface is intuitive, and the controls are clearly labeled, making it easy to switch between modes. The stacked blade assembly ensures everything blends evenly, from liquids to solids.

The Recipe Inspiration Guide included in the box is a nice touch. I’ve already tried a few recipes, like a strawberry-banana smoothie and a piña colada, and they turned out great. Cleanup is equally hassle-free. With the blender being dishwasher safe, I just toss the pitcher and blades into the top rack, and I’m done.

Competitive Options

Having previously used competitors like the Vitamix E310 and Nutribullet Pro, I immediately noticed strengths and weaknesses. While the Vitamix excels in professional-grade blending and quieter operation, it doesn’t offer the Auto-iQ presets, which make the Ninja more user-friendly for beginners. On the other hand, the Nutribullet Pro is compact and affordable but lacks the crushing power and large capacity of this blender. For me, the Ninja strikes a balance between performance and convenience, making it a versatile choice.

Bang for the Buck

This blender is a solid investment for its features and capabilities, especially for families or anyone who loves experimenting in the kitchen. You’re not just paying for a motor and blades; you’re getting a product that simplifies blending with intuitive presets and robust power. While it’s not the cheapest option, its cost-effectiveness is undeniable when you consider its performance and longevity.

Pros and Cons at a Glance

Favorable Attributes

• Powerful 1400-watt motor for professional-grade blending.
• Versatile Auto-iQ presets for hands-free operation.
• Dishwasher-safe pitcher and blade assembly for easy cleaning.
• Durable materials, including stainless steel blades and a BPA-free pitcher.

Negatives

• Loud operation, especially on high power.
• Quite bulky, making it less ideal for small kitchens.

Final Thoughts on This Blender

While testing the Ninja BN701 Professional Plus Blender, it became clear that it’s designed for users who need power and simplicity in one package. From making creamy smoothies to crushing ice for frozen drinks, this machine didn’t disappoint. Sure, it has its quirks, like the noise and size, but overall, it performs exceptionally well for its price range. If you’re on the hunt for a blender that offers a balance of power, convenience, and versatility, this one deserves a spot on your countertop.

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