Ninja BN801 Kitchen System Review Powerful Food Processor and Blender Combo Unpacked

Description

Highlights of the Ninja BN801 Professional Plus Kitchen System

Using the Ninja BN801 Professional Plus Kitchen System introduced me to a kitchen powerhouse that’s more than just a blender. The 1400 peak watts of professional power deliver remarkably smooth results whether crushing ice for frozen drinks or blending nutrient-rich smoothies. This system impressed me with its Auto-iQ technology, which intelligently combines timed pulsing, blending, and pausing patterns, taking the guesswork out of drink making. The five preset functions cover everything from smoothies and frozen drinks to dough mixing and precise chopping, making it versatile for various culinary tasks.

• Powerful crushing blades that handle ice and frozen fruits with ease
• Large 72-oz Total Crushing Pitcher perfect for family-sized batches
• Two 24-oz single-serve cups for on-the-go convenience
• Precision 64-oz processor bowl for chopping and dough preparation

Drawbacks That Stood Out During Use

Despite many strengths, some aspects of this system left me slightly underwhelmed. The pitcher’s max liquid capacity of 64 ounces, despite its 72-oz size, can be a little misleading when attempting large batches. The overall size and weight—weighing about 8.8 pounds and standing 18 inches tall—require ample countertop space, which might be a limitation in smaller kitchens. Additionally, the three-speed settings, while adequate, felt somewhat restrictive when I wanted more nuanced control over blending texture. A couple of my friends noted the noise level was louder than some other models they’ve tried, especially during heavy-duty crushing.

• Pitcher’s true liquid capacity less than expected
• Bulky design demands kitchen space
• Limited speed options for fine-tuning blends
• Relatively loud operation during heavy blending

Functionality and Features Explored

Testing the system fully meant diving into each included component and function. The stacked blade assembly in the pitcher excels at crushing ice and frozen ingredients, producing smooth and consistent results for smoothies and frozen cocktails. The 64-oz precision processor bowl with its chopping and dough blades is fantastic for food preparation tasks—chopping vegetables finely or whipping up dough for bread or pizza took seconds instead of minutes. I also appreciated the two single-serve cups with spout lids, which allowed me to whip up nutrient-packed drinks quickly and take them on my morning commute without fuss.

The 30-recipe inspiration guide that comes with the system provided helpful ideas, from smoothies to dough-based recipes, which was a nice touch for experimenting. The Auto-iQ technology really shines, adjusting blending patterns automatically, so pressing a button is all it takes to get the desired texture without manual intervention.

Price Worthiness and Value Proposition

Considering its features, this kitchen system offers a solid price-to-quality ratio. It packs the power and versatility of multiple appliances into one, which justifies the investment for anyone serious about blending, processing, and dough making. Comparing this device to other high-end blenders and food processors, it stands out by combining both in a single unit with easy-to-use presets. I found the ability to prepare everything from smoothies to dough in one system to be a great convenience, eliminating the need for separate gadgets.

While the upfront cost might seem steep compared to basic blenders, the value for money becomes clear when you factor in the multiple uses, robust construction, and included accessories. Those who regularly make smoothies, frozen drinks, or fresh dough will find this system particularly appealing.

Alternative Offerings and Competitive Landscape

Looking at competitors like the Vitamix A2500 or the KitchenAid KFP1466ER food processor, the Ninja system holds its own in power and versatility but falls short in some areas. The Vitamix offers more speed settings and slightly quieter operation, which appeals to blending enthusiasts seeking finer control. Meanwhile, the KitchenAid food processor excels in chopping precision but lacks the powerful crushing capabilities and smoothie presets found here.

This Ninja model shines with its Auto-iQ technology and preset functions, making it ideal for users who want convenience without fiddling with settings. However, those who prioritize quieter blends and extensive speed customization might lean toward competitors. The large blender pitcher size and included single-serve cups give it an edge for families and active individuals alike.

Design and Usability Observations

The modern grey design looks sleek on my kitchen counter but does require a decent amount of room due to its height and footprint. Controls are straightforward with three speed buttons and five Auto-iQ presets clearly labeled for easy access. The blades detach easily for cleaning, and the BPA-free plastic pitcher and bowls feel sturdy yet lightweight enough to handle comfortably when filled.

One quirky moment involved my kids attempting to use the single-serve cups for smoothies; the spout lids kept spills minimal, and refilling was a breeze. The system’s intuitive design made it accessible for novice users without sacrificing professional-grade performance for those more experienced. However, the bulky motor base means I usually keep it on the counter rather than stashing it away after use.

Performance Highlights in Daily Use

The total crushing blades truly deliver on their promise. Ice cubes and frozen fruits blend down to a smooth consistency, producing creamy smoothies every time. Dough mixing, surprisingly, is fast and even, with the dough blade handling up to 2 pounds without strain. Nutrient extraction from vegetables and fruits felt efficient, unlocking fresh flavors and vitamins, which made my morning health drinks tastier and more satisfying.

One day, I used the processor bowl to chop onions and peppers for salsa, and the even chopping impressed me. The preset chopping function prevented over-processing, keeping the ingredients in perfect chunks. Whether preparing drinks, dough, or chopped veggies, this system adapts well and makes the kitchen workflow quicker and more enjoyable.

Positives

• Versatile 5-function system covers multiple kitchen tasks
• Auto-iQ technology simplifies operation for consistent results
• Robust 1400-watt motor handles heavy-duty blending and dough mixing

Drawbacks

• Pitcher’s max liquid capacity slightly less than advertised
• Size and weight require ample countertop space
• Limited speed settings reduce fine control options
• Noise level can be quite loud during intensive blending

Additional information