You have decided to make smoothies at home, but the sheer number of blenders on the market can feel overwhelming. As a beginner, you want something that is easy to use, cleans up quickly, and delivers a consistently smooth blend without a steep learning curve. That is exactly why we have focused this guide on the two best Ninja models that simplify the process. Whether you plan to make single servings for a quick breakfast or large batches for the whole family, these blenders are built to remove the guesswork. For a broader look at top-rated options, check out our guide on the best blenders for smoothies.
Pros
- Significantly more powerful than the original Ninja Professional model with 40% more wattage
- Auto-iQ technology takes the guesswork out of blending with preset timed programs
- Large pitcher capacity is perfect for families and meal prep without multiple batches
- Total Crushing blades handle tough ingredients like frozen fruit, ice, and nuts effortlessly
- Dishwasher-safe components make maintenance quick and convenient for busy households
Cons
- No single-serve cups included, unlike some competing Ninja models at similar price points
- Requires top-rack dishwasher placement for the pitcher, which may not fit all dishwashers
- Only 3 preset programs compared to 5-7 on higher-end Ninja models
The Ninja Professional Plus BN701 is a mid-range countertop blender engineered for families and home cooks who want powerful performance without complexity. This unit sits between basic blenders and premium food processors, making it ideal for anyone serious about smoothies, frozen drinks, and homemade ice cream but not requiring commercial-grade versatility.
Performance is where this blender truly shines. The 1400 peak-watt motor crushes ice into fine snow within seconds, and the Total Crushing blade assembly handles everything from leafy greens to frozen fruit with equal ease. The three Auto-iQ presets deliver consistent results by automatically adjusting pulsing, blending, and pausing patterns, eliminating the trial-and-error that frustrates many blender users. In real-world use, this means perfect smoothies every time without manual speed adjustment.
The 72oz pitcher is genuinely family-sized, allowing you to blend enough smoothies for four people or prep ingredients for soups and sauces in a single batch. The clearly marked 64oz max liquid capacity prevents overfilling, and the BPA-free construction gives peace of mind for daily household use. Cleanup is straightforward, with both the pitcher and blade assembly being top-rack dishwasher safe, though you'll need adequate dishwasher space.
The main limitation is the modest number of preset programs compared to higher-end models, and the lack of included single-serve cups means you'll need to purchase them separately if you want on-the-go convenience. The motor base is also heavier than some competitors, taking up notable counter space.
Overall, the Ninja Professional Plus BN701 delivers professional-quality blending for families at a reasonable price point. It excels at ice crushing and frozen drinks, handles daily smoothie making effortlessly, and requires minimal maintenance. This is the right choice if you prioritize power and reliability over extensive preset options.
Motor and Power: 1400 peak watts with professional-grade crushing capability
Pitcher: 72oz total capacity with 64oz maximum liquid capacity, BPA-free plastic construction
Blade Assembly: Total Crushing 6-blade stacked design for ice crushing and ingredient blending
Preset Programs: 3 Auto-iQ intelligent presets (Frozen Drink, Smoothie, Ice Cream) plus 4 manual speed settings
Cleaning: Dishwasher-safe pitcher and blade assembly, top-rack placement recommended
Included Items: Motor base, 72oz pitcher, blade assembly, lid, 15-recipe inspiration guide, instruction booklet, and quick start guide
Ideal For: Families wanting daily smoothie-making capability, health-conscious households doing meal prep, anyone who enjoys frozen drinks and homemade ice cream, busy professionals needing quick blending without manual adjustment.
Best Use Cases: Making large batches of smoothies for the whole family, crushing ice for margaritas and daiquiris, preparing frozen desserts, blending soups and sauces, weekly meal prep with frozen fruits and vegetables.
Consider Alternatives If: You need multiple preset programs beyond three, want included single-serve cups, require a more compact footprint, or need vacuum blending technology for nutrient preservation.
Buying Guide: What to Look for in a Beginner Smoothie Blender
Choosing your first blender does not have to be complicated. Focus on these three key factors to find a model that will make your daily smoothie habit effortless.
Ease of Use and Preset Programs
As a beginner, you want a blender that does the thinking for you. Look for models with dedicated preset programs that automatically handle timing and pulsing. The Ninja Professional Plus Blender, Auto-iQ, 1400W features three Auto-iQ presets that take the guesswork out of making smoothies, frozen drinks, and ice cream. You simply press a button and let the machine do the rest. For those who prefer a more manual approach, the push-to-blend control on the personal model gives you full control with a simple pulse action.
Capacity and Portability
Consider how many servings you typically need. The 72-ounce pitcher on the Professional Plus is ideal for families or meal prepping several days worth of smoothies at once. If you are often on the go or only make single servings, the Ninja Nutri-Plus Personal Blender with its three 20-ounce to-go cups is a better fit. You can blend directly in the cup, twist on a spout lid, and head out the door with zero extra dishes. For more advice on choosing the right size, read our best blender for smoothies guide.
Blade Performance and Ice Crushing
A blender that struggles with ice or frozen fruit will leave you with chunky, disappointing smoothies. Both Ninja models feature Total Crushing blades (Professional Plus) or Pro Extractor blades (Nutri-Plus) that are built to pulverize ice and break down tough ingredients. The 1400-watt motor in the full-sized blender provides extra power for heavy loads, while the 900-watt motor in the personal blender is more than sufficient for single servings. Either way, you will get a silky smooth texture every time. For a deeper dive into motor performance, check our best blender for smoothies under $200 comparison.
Cleaning and Maintenance
No one wants to spend forever scrubbing a blender after making a quick smoothie. Both of these Ninja models are designed with dishwasher-safe parts. The pitcher, blade assembly, and lids can all go on the top rack of your dishwasher. The personal blender cups are also dishwasher safe, making cleanup as simple as loading the dishwasher. This is a huge advantage for beginners who want to keep their kitchen routine efficient. For more budget-friendly tips, see our best blender for smoothies for the money article.
Final Thoughts
Both of these Ninja blenders are excellent starting points for any beginner, but they serve slightly different needs. If you want a versatile machine that can handle large batches and offers automated presets for effortless blending, go with the Ninja Professional Plus Blender, Auto-iQ, 1400W. It is the perfect all-in-one solution for families or anyone who loves meal prepping. On the other hand, if you value portability and simplicity for single servings, the Ninja Nutri-Plus Personal Blender, 900PW, (3) is your ideal companion. It takes up minimal counter space and lets you blend, drink, and store in the same cup. Whichever you choose, you will be making delicious, smooth smoothies in no time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I crush ice in a beginner blender? Yes, both the Ninja Professional Plus and the Ninja Nutri-Plus are built with powerful blades and motors that can easily crush ice. The Total Crushing blades in the Professional Plus and the Pro Extractor blades in the Nutri-Plus are specifically designed for this purpose.
How do I clean a Ninja blender after a smoothie? The easiest method is to add a drop of dish soap and warm water to the pitcher or cup, then run the blender on a low setting for 30 seconds. After that, rinse thoroughly. All parts are also top-rack dishwasher safe for effortless cleaning.
Which Ninja blender is best for single-serving smoothies? The Ninja Nutri-Plus Personal Blender is the top choice for single servings. It comes with three 20-ounce to-go cups, so you can blend directly in the cup and take it with you. It is compact and ideal for one or two people.
Are Ninja blenders good for beginners in 2026? Absolutely. Ninja blenders are known for their intuitive controls, durable construction, and reliable performance. Both models reviewed here are rated highly for ease of use, making them perfect for anyone new to home blending. For a complete list of top-rated models, visit our best blender for smoothies page.
