Tested: Ninja Professional Plus Blender — Pros, Cons & Verdict

The Ninja Professional Plus Blender is a kitchen powerhouse designed to tackle a wide array of blending tasks, from silky-smooth smoothies to robust frozen drinks and even ice cream. This versatile appliance boasts impressive specifications and smart features, making it a contender for the top spot in many households seeking efficiency and performance.

Its robust 1400-watt motor and Total Crushing Blades are engineered to pulverize ice and tough ingredients with ease, ensuring consistent results every time you blend. Whether you’re a health enthusiast, a busy parent, or an aspiring home chef, this blender aims to simplify your daily routine with its intuitive operation and exceptional power.

Ninja Professional Plus Blender Overview

The Ninja Professional Plus Blender BN701 stands as a testament to Ninja’s commitment to delivering high-performance kitchen appliances that simplify complex tasks. This particular model is engineered for those who demand power and versatility without breaking the bank. It offers a compelling balance of robust motor strength, intelligent blending programs, and a practical design that fits well into any modern kitchen.

At its core, the BN701 is built around a formidable 1400-watt peak power motor. This isn’t just a number; it translates into genuine crushing capability, allowing the blender to pulverize ice, whole fruits, and tough vegetables in mere seconds. This raw power distinguishes it from many entry-level blenders, enabling it to handle tasks that typically challenge less potent machines.

The design of the Ninja Professional Plus Blender is both sleek and functional. Its dark grey finish provides a contemporary look that complements various kitchen decors, while the sturdy base incorporates suction cups to ensure stability during even the most vigorous blending cycles. This thoughtful design prevents the blender from “walking” across your countertop, a common issue with less stable models.

One of the standout features is the 72 oz Total Crushing Pitcher. This generous capacity is perfect for preparing large batches of smoothies for the entire family, whipping up a pitcher of frozen margaritas for guests, or meal prepping sauces and soups for the week. The pitcher is made from durable, BPA-free plastic, ensuring safety and longevity, and features clear measurement markings for precise ingredient additions.

Beyond raw power and capacity, the BN701 incorporates Ninja’s proprietary Auto-IQ Technology. This innovative feature takes the guesswork out of blending by offering three preset programs: Smoothie, Ice Crush, and Frozen Drink. Each program utilizes unique pulsing and pausing patterns designed to achieve optimal consistency for its specific task, delivering perfectly blended results with just one touch.

For individuals who are new to high-powered blending, the Auto-IQ programs provide an excellent starting point, simplifying the learning curve. More experienced users will appreciate the manual speed settings, which offer precise control over blending intensity and duration. This combination of intelligent presets and manual options makes the Ninja Professional Plus Blender adaptable to a wide range of culinary needs.

Comparing it to other blenders in its class, the Ninja BN701 often outperforms competitors in terms of sheer crushing ability at a similar price point. While some high-end blenders might offer more advanced features like heating elements or vacuum blending, the Ninja excels at its core function: efficient and powerful blending of cold and frozen ingredients. This focus on fundamental performance makes it a strong value proposition for everyday use.

The inclusion of a recipe guide with the blender provides immediate inspiration, showcasing the versatility of the machine beyond basic smoothies. Users can explore recipes for various frozen desserts, sauces, and even batters, encouraging experimentation and maximizing the utility of their new appliance. For more information on the brand and its products, you can visit the official Ninja Kitchen website.

Overall, the Ninja Professional Plus Blender is designed for efficiency and user-friendliness. Its powerful motor, intelligent programs, and large capacity make it an indispensable tool for anyone looking to upgrade their blending experience. It effectively bridges the gap between basic kitchen blenders and professional-grade machines, offering robust performance at an accessible price point, making it an excellent choice for a wide demographic.

Ninja Professional Plus Blender Key Features & Specs

Understanding the specific features and technical specifications of the Ninja Professional Plus Blender BN701 is crucial to appreciating its capabilities and how it stands out in the crowded blender market. Each component is meticulously designed to contribute to its powerful and efficient blending performance.

1400-Watt Peak Power Motor

The heart of this blender is its formidable 1400-watt peak power motor. This high wattage indicates significant power reserves, allowing the blender to maintain high speeds and torque even when encountering tough ingredients like frozen fruits, hard vegetables, and large chunks of ice. The term “peak power” refers to the maximum power the motor can generate for short bursts, which is essential for breaking down resistant materials quickly.

This immense power ensures that ingredients are thoroughly pulverized, leaving no chunky bits or unblended ice. It means your smoothies will be velvety smooth, your frozen drinks perfectly slushy, and your purees exceptionally fine. This motor is a primary reason the Ninja Professional Plus Blender excels at its “Total Crushing” promise.

Total Crushing Blades

Ninja’s patented Total Crushing Blades are a distinctive feature, setting them apart from traditional blenders that often use small, propeller-style blades at the bottom. The BN701 features a unique stacked blade assembly that extends through the entire height of the pitcher, with multiple sharp blades positioned at different levels.

This design creates a powerful, multi-level blending action that pulverizes ingredients from top to bottom, ensuring no ingredient escapes the blades. It’s particularly effective for crushing ice into snow in seconds and thoroughly breaking down fibrous greens or dense frozen fruit without needing extra liquid or a tamper. This innovative blade system is key to its consistent results.

72 oz Total Crushing Pitcher

The generous 72-ounce (approximately 9-cup) Total Crushing Pitcher provides ample capacity for blending large quantities. Whether you’re preparing a week’s worth of protein shakes, a family-sized smoothie, or a batch of party cocktails, this pitcher handles it all. Its large size reduces the need for multiple blending cycles, saving time and effort.

Constructed from durable, BPA-free plastic, the pitcher is designed to withstand the rigors of daily use and powerful blending. It also features a secure, locking lid with a pour spout, preventing spills and making serving easy. Clear measurement markings on the side allow for accurate ingredient additions, which is vital for following recipes precisely.

3 Auto-IQ Programs

The inclusion of Auto-IQ Technology is a significant convenience feature for the Ninja Professional Plus Blender. It offers three intelligent preset programs: Smoothie, Ice Crush, and Frozen Drink. These programs are not just simple timers; they incorporate unique pulsing, blending, and pausing patterns optimized for specific results.

For example, the Smoothie program might use short pulses to break down ingredients initially, followed by continuous blending to achieve a smooth consistency. The Ice Crush program employs powerful, rhythmic pulses to efficiently turn ice into snow. These automated cycles ensure consistent, perfect results without constant supervision or manual adjustments, making blending incredibly user-friendly.

Intuitive Control Panel

Beyond the Auto-IQ presets, the blender features a straightforward control panel with manual speed settings. This allows users to choose between low, medium, and high speeds, along with a pulse function for precise control over texture. The intuitive layout makes it easy for anyone to operate, regardless of their blending experience.

The combination of one-touch Auto-IQ programs and manual control options provides maximum flexibility. You can rely on the smart programs for everyday tasks or take full command for custom recipes and specific textures. This adaptability ensures the Ninja Professional Plus Blender can meet a wide variety of culinary demands, from delicate sauces to robust batters.

Safety and Stability

Ninja has incorporated several safety features into the BN701. The pitcher must be securely locked onto the motor base before operation, and the lid must be properly fastened, preventing accidental spills or improper use. Additionally, the motor base is equipped with powerful suction cups that firmly grip the countertop, ensuring the blender remains stable and secure during high-speed blending, reducing vibrations and potential movement.

These safety measures provide peace of mind, especially in busy kitchens or households with children. The robust construction of the blender, from its heavy-duty motor base to its durable pitcher, speaks to its overall quality and expected longevity, making it a reliable addition to your kitchen arsenal. More general information about blenders can be found on Wikipedia’s Blender page.

Pros & Cons

Every kitchen appliance comes with its unique set of advantages and disadvantages, and the Ninja Professional Plus Blender BN701 is no exception. Understanding these aspects helps potential buyers make an informed decision based on their specific needs and expectations.

Pros:

• Unrivaled Crushing Power: The 1400-watt motor combined with the Total Crushing Blades delivers exceptional performance in breaking down even the toughest ingredients. It effortlessly turns ice cubes into fine snow, handles frozen fruits with ease, and pulverizes nuts and seeds for smooth textures. This capability is a significant advantage for anyone who frequently makes frozen drinks, smoothies, or nut butters.
• Convenient Auto-IQ Technology: The three pre-programmed settings (Smoothie, Ice Crush, Frozen Drink) are a game-changer for consistency and ease of use. These intelligent programs automatically adjust blending patterns, ensuring optimal results without constant monitoring. This feature is particularly beneficial for busy individuals or those who prefer a ‘set it and forget it’ approach to blending.
• Generous Pitcher Capacity: The 72 oz pitcher is ideal for preparing large quantities, making it perfect for families, entertaining guests, or batch-prepping meals and snacks. You can make enough smoothies for everyone in one go, saving time and reducing cleanup. Its large size is a major plus for high-volume blending tasks.
• Versatility for Various Tasks: Beyond just smoothies, the Ninja Professional Plus Blender excels at a wide range of culinary applications. It can create smooth purees for soups and sauces, whip up creamy dips, prepare baby food, and even mix batters for pancakes or waffles. Its robust power allows for diverse recipe experimentation.
• Sturdy Construction and Stability: The blender is built with durable materials, giving it a solid and premium feel. The motor base is substantial and features powerful suction cups that firmly anchor it to the countertop. This stability is crucial for safe operation, especially when blending at high speeds or processing dense ingredients, preventing any wobbling or movement.
• Relatively Easy to Clean: The pitcher, lid, and blade assembly are all dishwasher-safe, simplifying the cleanup process. For quick cleaning, a rinse cycle with warm water and a drop of soap can often suffice. While caution is needed with the sharp blades, the overall design facilitates straightforward maintenance, making post-blending chores less daunting.
• Excellent Value for Money: Considering its powerful motor, advanced Auto-IQ features, and large capacity, the Ninja BN701 offers remarkable performance at a competitive price point. It provides many capabilities found in much more expensive blenders, making it an accessible option for those seeking high-end results without a premium investment.

Cons:

• Noise Level: As with many high-powered blenders, the Ninja Professional Plus Blender can be quite loud during operation. The 1400-watt motor and the aggressive crushing action, particularly when dealing with ice or frozen ingredients, generate a considerable amount of noise. This might be a concern for early morning smoothie makers or those in shared living spaces.
• Blade Assembly Requires Careful Handling: While the stacked Total Crushing Blades are highly effective, their design makes them exceptionally sharp and somewhat cumbersome to clean. Users must exercise extreme caution when washing the blade assembly by hand to avoid cuts. This isn’t a design flaw but a necessary safety consideration due to its powerful function.
• Large Footprint and Height: The 72 oz pitcher, while beneficial for capacity, means the blender has a significant vertical footprint. It might not fit comfortably under all standard kitchen cabinets, requiring it to be stored elsewhere or kept on the counter where it could dominate space. This is a practical consideration for kitchens with limited overhead clearance.
• No Heating Function: Unlike some premium blenders that can heat ingredients through friction or a built-in heating element, the Ninja Professional Plus Blender does not offer this capability. While it can blend warm liquids, it cannot cook or heat ingredients to make hot soups directly in the pitcher, which might be a drawback for some users.
• Plastic Pitcher Construction: While durable and BPA-free, the pitcher is made of plastic rather than glass. Some users might prefer glass pitchers for their perceived durability, resistance to odors, or aesthetic appeal. Over time, plastic can sometimes show signs of wear or slight discoloration, though Ninja’s plastic is generally robust.

Who Should Buy the Ninja Professional Plus Blender?

The Ninja Professional Plus Blender BN701 is an excellent choice for a diverse range of individuals and households, thanks to its powerful performance and user-friendly features. Understanding who this blender is best suited for can help potential buyers determine if it aligns with their culinary needs and lifestyle.

First and foremost, this blender is ideal for Health Enthusiasts and Smoothie Lovers. If your daily routine includes nutrient-packed smoothies, protein shakes, or green juices, the BN701’s 1400-watt motor and Total Crushing Blades will be a game-changer. It effortlessly pulverizes fibrous greens, frozen fruits, and ice, delivering consistently smooth and lump-free beverages every time. The Auto-IQ Smoothie program makes daily preparation quick and convenient.

Families and Entertainers will also find the large 72 oz Total Crushing Pitcher incredibly beneficial. Preparing multiple servings of smoothies for breakfast, whipping up a batch of homemade baby food, or mixing a pitcher of frozen margaritas for a party becomes a simple, one-step process. Its capacity eliminates the need for multiple blending cycles, saving precious time and effort when serving a crowd.

For those who are Budget-Conscious but Demand High Performance, the Ninja Professional Plus Blender offers an outstanding value proposition. It delivers much of the power and versatility typically associated with premium, higher-priced blenders like Vitamix or Blendtec, but at a significantly more accessible cost. It’s a smart investment for anyone seeking professional-grade results without the hefty price tag.

Busy Individuals and Professionals will appreciate the convenience of the Auto-IQ Technology. The one-touch programs mean you can load your ingredients, select a preset, and let the blender do the work while you multitask. This automation ensures consistent results and saves valuable time during hectic mornings or after a long day, making healthy eating more attainable.

Aspiring Home Cooks and Food Prep Enthusiasts will discover the versatility of the BN701 extends far beyond drinks. It can effortlessly create smooth purees for soups, creamy sauces, homemade dressings, and even batters for pancakes or waffles. Its ability to process a wide variety of ingredients with precision makes it a valuable tool for expanding culinary skills and preparing meals from scratch. It also excels at making homemade nut butter, although this requires some attention and scraping.

If you’re a fan of Frozen Drinks and Desserts, this blender is practically tailor-made for you. Its Total Crushing Blades and powerful motor are specifically designed to turn ice and frozen ingredients into a perfectly smooth, snow-like consistency. Think restaurant-quality margaritas, daiquiris, slushies, and even homemade ice cream bases, all crafted with ease in your own kitchen. The dedicated Frozen Drink Auto-IQ program simplifies these creations.

The Ninja Professional Plus Blender is also a solid choice for those who are Upgrading from a Basic Blender. If your current blender struggles with ice, leaves chunks in your smoothies, or lacks the capacity you need, the BN701 will feel like a significant leap forward. Its power and efficiency will transform your blending experience, making previously difficult tasks effortless.

Finally, for Students or Apartment Dwellers with limited kitchen space but a desire for robust blending capabilities, this unit offers a compact yet powerful solution. While the pitcher is tall, the overall footprint of the motor base is reasonable. It combines multiple functions into one appliance, reducing clutter and offering maximum utility in smaller living environments. Its durability ensures it can withstand frequent use over time.

FAQ about Ninja Professional Plus Blender

Below are some of the most frequently asked questions about the Ninja Professional Plus Blender BN701, providing practical answers to common queries that prospective and current users may have.

Q1: Is the Ninja Professional Plus Blender dishwasher safe?

A: Yes, the pitcher, lid, and blade assembly are generally designed to be top-rack dishwasher safe. However, for longevity and to maintain the sharpness of the blades, handwashing the blade assembly with extreme care is often recommended. The motor base itself should never be submerged in water; instead, wipe it clean with a damp cloth.

Q2: Can this blender make hot soups directly in the pitcher?

A: While the Ninja Professional Plus Blender is powerful enough to blend hot liquids, it does not have a heating element. Therefore, it cannot cook ingredients or bring cold ingredients to a hot temperature to create hot soups directly. You would need to blend your ingredients and then heat the soup on a stovetop or in a microwave.

Q3: What’s the main difference between the BN701 and other Ninja blenders?

A: The BN701 is part of Ninja’s Professional Plus series, characterized by its robust 1400-watt motor and the inclusion of Auto-IQ Technology with specific presets. Other Ninja models might vary in power, pitcher size, included accessories (like single-serve cups or food processor attachments), or the number of Auto-IQ programs. The BN701 focuses on delivering core powerful blending for large batches with intelligent automation.

Q4: How effective is it at crushing ice for frozen drinks?

A: The Ninja Professional Plus Blender excels at crushing ice. Its “Total Crushing Blades” and powerful 1400-watt motor are specifically engineered to pulverize ice cubes and frozen ingredients into a fine, snow-like consistency in seconds. This makes it exceptionally effective for crafting smooth margaritas, daiquiris, and other frozen beverages without leaving large chunks.

Q5: Is the blender very loud during operation?

A: Yes, like most high-powered blenders designed to handle tough ingredients and crush ice, the Ninja Professional Plus Blender can be quite loud when in use. The powerful motor and the aggressive action of the blades, particularly on higher settings or with hard ingredients, generate a considerable amount of noise. This is a common characteristic of blenders with this level of performance.

Q6: Does the BN701 come with a tamper or a personal cup?

A: No, the standard Ninja Professional Plus Blender BN701 package typically includes only the 72 oz Total Crushing Pitcher with its lid and blade assembly, along with the motor base. It does not usually come with a tamper, as its blade design and power are generally sufficient to process ingredients without needing manual assistance. Personal cups are often included with other Ninja models, but not this specific one.

Q7: What kind of warranty does Ninja offer for this blender?

A: Ninja typically provides a 1-year limited warranty for the Ninja Professional Plus Blender, covering defects in materials and workmanship. It is always advisable to register your product upon purchase and to consult the specific warranty documentation included with your appliance or available on the official Ninja Kitchen website for the most accurate and up-to-date details regarding coverage and terms.

Q8: Can I use this blender to make nut butter or grind coffee beans?

A: Yes, with its powerful motor, the Ninja Professional Plus Blender can be used to make nut butter. It may require patience, stopping to scrape down the sides, and utilizing the pulse function to achieve a smooth consistency. For grinding coffee beans, while technically possible, it is not optimized for fine grinding and may produce a coarser, less consistent grind than a dedicated coffee grinder. It’s best for coarse chopping or rough grinding of spices.

Final Verdict

The Ninja Professional Plus Blender BN701 stands out as an exceptional value in the world of kitchen appliances, offering a compelling blend of raw power, intelligent design, and user-friendly features. Its 1400-watt motor and Total Crushing Blades are truly impressive, making short work of even the most challenging ingredients, from solid ice to fibrous greens.

For anyone seeking to elevate their blending experience without committing to the premium price tag of ultra-high-end models, this blender is an outstanding choice. It delivers consistent, professional-grade results for smoothies, frozen drinks, purees, and more, proving its versatility in a busy kitchen environment. The Auto-IQ Technology further enhances its appeal, simplifying complex tasks into one-touch operations.

While the noise level and the need for careful cleaning of the sharp blade assembly are minor considerations, they are common trade-offs for such powerful performance. The generous 72 oz pitcher capacity makes it ideal for families or those who frequently prepare large batches, solidifying its position as a highly practical and efficient appliance.

In conclusion, the Ninja Professional Plus Blender BN701 is a highly recommended purchase for health enthusiasts, busy families, and aspiring home cooks alike. It provides robust performance, intelligent features, and excellent durability, ensuring it will be a workhorse in your kitchen for years to come. If you’re looking for a powerful, versatile, and reliable blender that offers superb value, the Ninja Professional Plus Blender is an excellent investment that truly delivers on its promises.