Ninja BN801 Professional Plus Kitchen System Review Powerful Food Processor and Blender Combo

Description

Strengths of the Ninja Professional Plus Kitchen System

Using the Ninja Professional Plus Kitchen System, model BN801, has been quite an experience with its impressive power and versatility. The 1400 peak watt motor delivers exceptional crushing ability that handles ice, frozen fruits, and tough veggies with ease. This system doesn’t just blend; it pulverizes ingredients into silky smoothies or finely chopped mixtures without leaving stubborn chunks behind. The Auto-iQ technology simplifies blending by running preset programs that combine pulsing, pausing, and blending patterns automatically. It really takes the guesswork out of preparing drinks or dough.

The inclusion of multiple blades tailored for different tasks adds to its charm. The stacked blade assembly for the pitcher and the dough blade for kneading dough are particularly impressive. I witnessed firsthand how quickly it whipped up dough for pizza from just a few ingredients, perfectly folded and ready to rise. Plus, the 64-ounce precision processor bowl is a dream for chopping vegetables or pureeing sauces evenly. The two 24-ounce single-serve cups with spout lids make it super convenient to grab your smoothie on the go. Overall, this kitchen system feels like a true multitasker.

• Powerful 1400-Watt motor crushes ice and frozen fruits effortlessly
• Auto-iQ technology enables easy one-touch blending programs
• Multiple blades designed for chopping, processing, and dough mixing
• XL 72-ounce pitcher capacity ideal for family-sized batches

Drawbacks to Keep in Mind

Despite its many perks, there are a few limitations that I noticed during use. The entire system is a bit bulky, demanding significant counter space due to the size of the pitcher and processor bowl. If your kitchen is tight on room, this might be a downside. Also, while the Auto-iQ preset programs are handy, they don’t allow much customization for users who prefer manual control over blending times or speeds. The machine offers only three speed settings, which felt somewhat limiting for delicate tasks.

Noise levels can be quite high when crushing ice or mixing dough, so if you’re a light sleeper or often cook early mornings, this could be a concern. I also found the pitcher’s 64-ounce max liquid capacity a bit confusing since the stated size is 72 ounces but the actual limit is less. Overfilling can cause spills or inefficient blending.

• Bulky design takes up considerable counter space
• Limited speed control with only three speed options
• High noise output during ice crushing and dough mixing
• Discrepancy between pitcher size and actual maximum liquid capacity

Versatile Design and Functionality

This kitchen system is not just a blender; it’s a complete food processing powerhouse. The five preset functions cover smoothies, frozen drinks, nutrient extractions, chopped mixtures, and dough preparation. I was able to whirl up everything from creamy green smoothies to dense pizza dough without switching appliances. The system’s blades are specifically designed for each task: Pro Extractor Blades for smoothies, stacked blades for crushing, and dough and chopping blades for the processor bowl.

The recipe inspiration guide included was a nice touch, providing creative ideas that encouraged me to experiment beyond smoothies. Whether crushing ice to snowy perfection or kneading dough for homemade bread, this system handles it all with professional power and precision.

User Experience: Family and Friends Approved

My family definitely noticed the difference in smoothie texture and consistency compared to other blenders we’ve had. My kids loved the single-serve cups, which made it easy for them to grab their favorite fruit smoothies on busy mornings. Friends were impressed by the dough mixing feature during a pizza night, commenting on how evenly the dough came together in seconds.

That said, the setup and cleaning require some effort due to multiple components. The blade assemblies, pitcher, cups, and processor bowl all need thorough rinsing to avoid residue buildup. The dishwasher-safe parts help, but cleaning is still more involved than a simple blender jar.

Product Comparisons with Popular Competitors

Looking at similar offerings from brands like Vitamix or KitchenAid, this system holds its own but with some trade-offs. The Ninja’s 1400-watt motor delivers comparable crushing power to many mid-range Vitamix blenders, yet it comes at a more affordable price point. However, Vitamix often outperforms with more variable speed options and quieter motors.

On the food processing side, KitchenAid offers robust processors with larger capacity bowls, but Ninja’s precision processor bowl shines in its chopping uniformity and dough mixing torque. Compared to other Ninja models, this system stands out with its Auto-iQ technology and wider range of preset programs, though it’s bulkier than some compact blenders.

In summary, this kitchen system excels at delivering multi-functionality and power at a reasonable price but sacrifices some manual control and space efficiency compared to competitors.

Value for Money Considerations

Assessing the price in relation to its features, the system feels like a smart investment for those wanting a versatile kitchen appliance without splurging on top-tier brands. You’re essentially getting a blender, food processor, and dough mixer in one unit, which can replace multiple devices cluttering your kitchen.

The preset programs and Auto-iQ technology add convenience that justifies the cost, especially if you appreciate the hands-off blending experience. However, if you’re seeking more fine-tuned control or quieter operation, you might find better options at higher price points. But for straightforward, powerful blending and processing, this system delivers solid value.

Quality and Build

The stainless steel blades feel durable and sharp, cutting through ingredients without struggle. The plastic components are sturdy, though the gray color scheme is somewhat plain compared to more colorful alternatives. The motor base is solid and stable during operation, which reassured me during high-speed blending.

Despite being made in China, the overall build quality suggests this appliance is designed to last with proper care. The included limited warranty adds peace of mind, though Ninja’s customer support experiences vary based on online reviews.

Ease of Use and Cleanup

Operating this system is mostly intuitive thanks to the well-marked buttons and simple interface. The one-touch Auto-iQ programs are especially helpful for beginners or anyone who wants quick results without fiddling with settings. Switching between pitcher, processor bowl, and single-serve cups is straightforward, but the variety of parts means cleanup can be time-consuming.

I appreciated that most components are dishwasher safe, but the blades require careful handling during washing. Storing all the pieces together can be a challenge due to their size and shape, so planning your kitchen storage accordingly is wise.

The included quick start guide aids in getting comfortable with the system fast, while the recipe inspiration booklet encourages creativity in the kitchen.

This kitchen system offers an impressive blend of power, versatility, and convenience, making it a compelling option for anyone looking to streamline their food prep. Its Auto-iQ technology and multiple blade assemblies set it apart, though the bulky design and noise levels might not suit every kitchen. For those who value multifunctionality and ease of use, it’s worth considering as a daily kitchen companion.

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