Ninja Foodi Power Blender Ultimate System [SS401] Review

If you’ve ever been frustrated by a weak blender that struggles with ice or leaves chunks in your smoothie, you’re not alone. Many blenders promise power but fail when it comes to crushing frozen fruit, making nut butter, or kneading dough. The Ninja Foodi Power Blender Ultimate System claims to do it all—smoothies, food processing, thick bowls, and even dough mixing. But does it live up to the hype?

This review takes an honest, in-depth look at everything from power and performance to durability, usability, and real-world results. Whether you’re considering an upgrade or need a blender that can truly handle tough tasks, this review will help you make the right decision.

Unboxing and First Impressions

Pulling the Ninja SS401 Foodi Power Blender Ultimate System out of the box, the first thing that stands out is its solid build quality. It has some weight to it, which immediately gives a sense of durability. Unlike lightweight blenders that shift around the counter during use, this one feels stable. The matte black finish with silver accents gives it a modern, professional look—something that wouldn’t look out of place in a high-end kitchen.

What’s Included in the Box?

Everything is neatly packed, and once unboxed, here’s what you’ll find:

1. 1600-Watt Motor Base

The foundation of the Ninja Foodi Power Blender SS401, this motor base is heavier and more powerful than many standard household blenders. The control panel features well-labeled buttons and a digital display, making it easy to select the right setting.

2. 72-Ounce Power Blender & Processor Pitcher

This extra-large pitcher serves as both a blender and a food processor, making it versatile for everything from smoothies to dough mixing. The handle feels sturdy, and the pour spout prevents messes when transferring liquids.

3. XL Smoothie Bowl Maker with Built-in Tamper

A unique addition, this attachment is specifically designed for thicker blends like smoothie bowls, nut butters, and frozen treats. It comes with a built-in tamper that helps push down ingredients, eliminating the need to stop and scrape the sides.

4. 24-Ounce Nutrient Extraction Cup with Spout Lid

For those who prefer single-serve smoothies, this cup is a great addition. It’s portable, easy to clean, and fits securely onto the motor base. The spout lid makes it convenient for drinking on the go without spills.

5. Hybrid Edge Blades Assembly

The blades are sharp and uniquely designed to handle both blending and food processing tasks. Unlike traditional blender blades that sit at the bottom of the jar, these are angled and layered to ensure even blending.

6. Dough Blade Assembly

For anyone who bakes, this attachment is a nice touch. It’s designed to mix and knead dough efficiently, saving time and effort. While it may not replace a stand mixer entirely, it’s useful for small-batch dough preparation.

7. Lid with Pour Spout

A minor but important detail, the lid locks securely in place, and the pour spout makes it easy to transfer liquids without making a mess.

8. Recipe Guide

A small booklet is included with recipes for smoothies, sauces, soups, and baked goods. It’s a good starting point, especially for those new to high-powered blenders.

Initial Setup and Ease of Use

Setting up the Ninja SS401 is straightforward. Each attachment clicks into place easily, and the motor base has clear labels for where each piece should go. Unlike some appliances that require careful alignment, this one is intuitive, making it simple to switch between functions.

The control panel is well-organized, featuring:

• Preset buttons for different tasks (smoothies, dough, bowls, etc.)
• A manual speed control for customized blending
• A digital timer that displays how long the blend has been running

This makes operation user-friendly, even for those who aren’t familiar with multi-functional blenders.

First Impressions on Build Quality

One of the first things noticeable about the Ninja SS401 Foodi Power Blender is how sturdy and well-constructed it feels. The base is solid, the jars are thick, and the attachments lock into place securely. Some blenders feel cheap due to flimsy plastic parts, but this one feels like it can handle heavy use.

The buttons are tactile, not the flimsy membrane-style buttons found on budget models. Even the blades are noticeably sharp, which is a good sign for efficient blending.

Noise Level: How Loud Is It?

A blender this powerful is bound to make noise, and the Ninja SS401 is no exception. It’s louder than a standard blender, especially when blending ice or tough ingredients. However, this is expected from a high-powered motor. If you’re blending early in the morning, it might wake up others in the house—but that’s the trade-off for strong performance.

Does It Feel Premium or Just Overhyped?

Right from unboxing, everything about the Ninja SS401 suggests it’s built for durability and heavy-duty use. The attachments feel solid, the motor base is powerful, and the design is sleek yet functional. While it’s not as high-end as premium blenders like Vitamix, it’s definitely a step above standard household blenders.

Features and Performance: Is the Power as Strong as Advertised?

Seeing a 1600-watt motor on paper is one thing, but actually putting it to the test is another. A blender can have all the power in the world, but if the blade design, speed control, and overall engineering aren’t right, it won’t perform as expected. So, how does the Ninja SS401 Foodi Power Blender Ultimate System hold up in real-world use?

Blending Power: Can It Handle Tough Ingredients?

The true test of any blender is how well it crushes ice, grinds nuts, and blends fibrous ingredients like kale or ginger. Some blenders struggle with these, leaving chunky bits behind, but the Ninja Foodi Power Blender doesn’t hold back.

• Ice Crushing: The Hybrid Edge Blades make quick work of ice cubes. Instead of bouncing them around like weaker blenders, it pulverizes them into fine snow in seconds. If you love slushies or frozen cocktails, this is a plus.
• Nut Butters: Making almond or peanut butter requires consistent power and endurance. Some blenders overheat or require constant stirring, but with the smoothie bowl maker and built-in tamper, it’s surprisingly easy to get a creamy texture without adding extra oil.
• Leafy Greens and Fibrous Ingredients: No one wants chunks of spinach or kale in their smoothie. The Nutrient Extraction Cup blends these down to a smooth consistency, with no weird pulp or stringy bits. Even tough ingredients like carrots and ginger blend effortlessly.

Speed Control and Presets: How Much Control Do You Have?

The Ninja SS401 comes with a mix of automatic presets and manual speed controls, which is great for different blending needs.

Auto-iQ Presets:

These are pre-programmed blending cycles that adjust speed and blending time automatically. You just press a button, and the blender does the rest.

• Smoothie: Pulses and blends in a cycle to ensure even consistency. No chunks, no guesswork.
• Extract: Designed for breaking down tough ingredients while keeping nutrients intact.
• Spread: Slower, controlled blending for thicker recipes like hummus or nut butters.
• Dough: Mimics a stand mixer’s kneading motion for bread and pizza dough.
• Bowl: Specifically for thick blends like smoothie bowls or frozen treats.
• Pulse: Great for quick chopping and food processing tasks.

Manual Speed Control:

For those who prefer full control, the variable speed dial lets you adjust blending speed as needed. Whether you want a quick chop or a high-speed blend, this feature is useful for more precise recipes.

Overheating and Motor Performance: Can It Handle Long Blends?

Some high-powered blenders overheat quickly, forcing you to stop mid-blend. The Ninja SS401 has a built-in cooling system, allowing it to run longer without shutting down. Even after making multiple batches of nut butter and smoothie bowls back-to-back, there was no overheating issue.

Food Processing Capabilities: Is It a True 2-in-1 Blender?

Unlike traditional blenders, the Ninja Foodi Power Blender is also designed as a food processor, thanks to its powerful motor and blade attachments. Here’s how it performs:

• Chopping Vegetables: Works like a mini food processor, dicing onions, carrots, and peppers quickly without turning them into mush.
• Dough Mixing: While not as powerful as a stand mixer, it does a decent job with small-batch dough. It’s a great backup option if you don’t have a separate dough mixer.
• Shredding Cheese: The blade design allows for grating and shredding, making it more than just a blender.

Noise Level: Is It Too Loud?

A 1600-watt motor isn’t going to be whisper-quiet, and this blender does make noise—especially at high speeds. Compared to other high-powered blenders, it’s not excessively loud, but it’s definitely not something you’d use in the early morning if others are sleeping.

Is the Power as Good as Advertised?

Yes. The Ninja SS401 delivers on its power claims. It blends, processes, and crushes ingredients with ease, handling everything from soft fruits to frozen foods and thick nut butters without struggle. The Auto-iQ presets make operation simple, while the manual speed control adds flexibility. It’s powerful, but not overwhelming or difficult to use, making it a solid option for both beginners and experienced users.

Ninja SS401 Attachments and Accessories: Do They Add Real Value?

A high-powered blender is only as good as its attachments and accessories. Some brands load up their blenders with extra parts that barely get used, while others provide tools that genuinely improve versatility. The Ninja SS401 Foodi Power Blender Ultimate System comes with a mix of both. Let’s take a look at what’s included and whether these extras are worth it.

The Extra Large 72 oz Pitcher: Does Size Matter?

For anyone who regularly blends in large batches, the 72-ounce blending pitcher is a big plus. It’s great for family-sized smoothies, meal prep, or making big batches of soup. Unlike smaller blender cups, you don’t have to blend in multiple rounds, which saves time.

• Ideal for Smoothies and Frozen Drinks: Easily makes multiple servings at once without overflowing.
• Handles Thick Mixtures Well: No struggling with frozen fruit, nut butters, or thick blends.
• Sturdy and Well-Designed: The heavy-duty plastic feels durable, and the lid seals tightly to prevent spills.

Drawback?

If you’re only making a single smoothie or small portions, the large pitcher might feel excessive. But that’s where the smaller attachments come in.

Smoothie Bowl Maker with Built-in Tamper: Does It Work?

One standout attachment is the smoothie bowl maker, designed for thicker blends like açai bowls, frozen yogurts, and nut butters.

• Why It’s Useful: Unlike traditional blending cups, this has a built-in tamper, allowing you to push ingredients down while blending. No need to constantly stop and scrape the sides.
• Perfect for Thick Blends: Some blenders struggle with thick mixtures, leaving chunks behind or requiring extra liquid. This solves that problem by keeping everything moving.
• Makes DIY Frozen Desserts Easy: If you love making homemade ice cream or smoothie bowls, this feature alone might be worth it.

24 oz Nutrient Extraction Cup: Good for On-the-Go Blending?

For quick smoothies, the 24-ounce nutrient extraction cup is a great addition. It blends directly into the cup, so you can just blend, pop on the lid, and go.

• Great for Single Servings: No need to dirty the large pitcher for one smoothie.
• Extracts Nutrients Efficiently: The blade design helps break down tough ingredients, making for smoother, pulp-free drinks.
• Convenient for Busy Mornings: Less mess, fewer dishes, and easy to take on the road.

Food Processor Disc for Slicing and Shredding: A Nice Bonus?

This is where the Ninja SS401 goes beyond being just a blender. The included processing disc allows you to shred, slice, and chop, functioning as a mini food processor.

• Shreds Cheese and Vegetables Quickly: If you like freshly grated cheese, this saves time.
• Slices Fruits and Vegetables Evenly: Works for potatoes, cucumbers, carrots, and more.
• Expands the Blender’s Capabilities: A standard blender can’t do this, making it a useful upgrade.

Are These Attachments Actually Worth It?

Yes—if you’ll use them. The smoothie bowl maker and nutrient extraction cup are great for those who make smoothies, thick blends, and frozen treats. The food processing disc is a bonus that adds extra value beyond blending. If you only need a simple blender, these extras might feel unnecessary. But for those who love versatile kitchen tools, these attachments make this system far more than just a blender.

Cleaning and Maintenance: Is It a Hassle or a Breeze?

A powerful blender is great—until it’s time to clean up. Some models are a nightmare to wash, with blades that trap food, lids that refuse to come clean, and parts that aren’t dishwasher-safe. So, how does the Ninja SS401 Foodi Power Blender Ultimate System hold up when it comes to maintenance?

Are the Parts Dishwasher-Safe?

Yes! All removable parts—pitcher, cups, lids, and blade assemblies—are dishwasher-safe. This makes cleanup significantly easier, especially after blending sticky or thick mixtures like nut butter.

• Top-rack recommended: While everything is technically dishwasher-safe, placing parts on the top rack helps prevent warping over time.
• Hand-washing is still an option: If you prefer hand-washing, warm soapy water and a sponge work fine. The plastic surfaces are smooth, making them easy to wipe clean.

Blade Cleaning: Any Issues?

Blades are often the trickiest part to clean. Some blenders have blades that trap food, requiring extra scrubbing. With the Ninja SS401, the Hybrid Edge Blades detach, so they can be rinsed separately.

• Rinse immediately after use: Dried-on food is always harder to remove. A quick rinse right after blending prevents buildup.
• Be careful handling blades: They are extremely sharp, so avoid scrubbing them with bare hands. A brush or sponge with a handle works best.

Does It Have a Self-Cleaning Function?

Not a dedicated button, but the “quick clean” method works well:

1. Fill the blender pitcher halfway with warm water.
2. Add a drop of dish soap.
3. Blend on high for 30–60 seconds.
4. Rinse and let it air-dry.

This loosens stuck food and makes washing much easier. For extra-tough messes (like nut butter), letting it soak for a few minutes before blending helps.

Does Food Get Stuck Under the Blades?

Some blenders have a design flaw where food gets trapped under the blades, making cleaning a pain. Fortunately, the Ninja SS401’s blade assembly is removable, so there are no hidden crevices where food can accumulate.

Storing the Blender: Does It Take Up Too Much Space?

This isn’t a compact blender, so it does take up some counter or cabinet space. However:

• The base is relatively sleek compared to other high-powered blenders.
• The attachments can be stacked or stored separately to save space.
• The cord wraps neatly around the base, keeping things tidy.

If you have limited storage, keeping all the attachments organized might require some extra space.

Is Maintenance an Issue?

Not really. Cleaning is straightforward, and since all parts are dishwasher-safe, the process is even easier. The removable blade assembly prevents food from getting stuck, and the quick-clean method saves time.

Durability and Build Quality: Will It Last?

A blender is an investment, and nobody wants to buy one that breaks down in a few months. Some models feel solid at first but develop cracks, motor issues, or dull blades over time. So, how well does the Ninja SS401 Foodi Power Blender Ultimate System hold up with regular use?

How Sturdy Is the Base?

The motor base is solid and well-built, weighing around 10 pounds. That might seem heavy, but it’s actually a good thing—lighter blenders tend to vibrate or “walk” across the counter when blending at high speeds.

• Non-slip feet keep it stable – Even on high settings, it doesn’t shift or rattle.
• Feels premium, not flimsy – The plastic housing is thick and durable, not cheap or brittle.

Do the Pitcher and Cups Hold Up Over Time?

One common issue with blenders is cracking or clouding of the plastic pitcher. Thankfully, the Ninja SS401 uses high-quality BPA-free plastic that resists scratches and discoloration.

• No stress cracks so far – Even with frequent use, the pitcher and cups stay in good shape.
• Doesn’t stain easily – Even after blending turmeric or berries, no stubborn stains or lingering smells.

The only thing to watch for is putting hot liquids in the plastic pitcher—it’s not heat-resistant, so blending soups straight from the stove could cause warping over time.

Are the Blades Durable?

The Hybrid Edge Blades are built from stainless steel, which holds up well even after frequent blending of ice, nuts, and frozen fruit. Some lower-quality blenders dull quickly, but so far:

• The blades stay sharp even after months of use.
• No bending or chipping – Some blenders develop bent or dented blades from crushing ice, but these hold up.

A tip to keep them sharp? Avoid running the blender dry (always add liquid when blending hard ingredients like frozen fruit).

Does the Motor Overheat?

Overheating is a common problem with powerful blenders, especially when blending thick mixtures for too long. The Ninja SS401 has built-in thermal protection, so if it gets too hot, it automatically shuts off to prevent damage.

• Handles tough blends well – Doesn’t struggle or slow down, even with frozen fruit or nut butter.
• Doesn’t overheat easily – Unless you’re pushing it beyond normal use, it stays cool.

Longevity: Will It Last for Years?

So far, the Ninja SS401 holds up well. The motor is powerful, the blades are durable, and the pitcher is sturdy. While only time will tell how long it lasts, the build quality suggests it will handle daily use for years.

Price and Value: Is It Worth the Investment?

A blender can be a major advancement in the kitchen, but is the Ninja SS401 Foodi Power Blender Ultimate System worth the price? Some blenders charge a premium but don’t deliver on performance, while others offer solid features at a reasonable cost. So, where does this one fall?

How Much Does It Cost?

The Ninja SS401 typically costs between $150 and $200, depending on sales and retailer pricing. This puts it in the mid-range blender category, more expensive than basic models but still significantly cheaper than high-end blenders like Vitamix (which can cost $400 or more).

What Do You Get for the Price?

For around $150-$200, you’re getting:

• A strong 1600-watt motor (more power than most blenders at this price).
• Multiple blending containers (72-oz pitcher, 24-oz smoothie cup, and 18-oz smoothie bowl maker).
• Hybrid Edge Blades that crush ice, blend smoothies, and process food.
• Seven pre-set programs for easy operation.
• A high-quality build that doesn’t feel cheap.

For the features and power, it offers a lot of value compared to competitors in the same price range.

How Does It Compare to Other Blenders?

Vs. Budget Blenders ($50–$100 range)

Cheaper blenders often have weaker motors (typically 600–1000 watts), struggle with ice and frozen fruit, and lack advanced features. If you just need a simple smoothie maker, a budget model might work, but for versatility and durability, the Ninja SS401 is a better choice.

Vs. High-End Blenders ($300–$500 range)

Expensive blenders like Vitamix or Blendtec offer longer warranties, slightly better motors, and more premium materials. However, unless you’re blending daily at a professional level, the Ninja SS401 gives you similar results for a fraction of the cost.

Are There Any Hidden Costs?

Some blenders require replacement parts over time (blades, pitchers, gaskets), adding to long-term costs. The Ninja SS401’s durability helps minimize extra expenses, but it’s worth noting:

• No need to replace blades often – They stay sharp longer than most.
• No costly accessories required – Everything you need comes in the box.

The only potential extra cost? If you need additional cups or a replacement pitcher later on.

Final Thoughts on Value

For its price, the Ninja SS401 offers excellent value. It’s powerful, versatile, and built well. While it’s not the cheapest option, it delivers way more than budget blenders without hitting the high-end price tag of luxury brands.

Pros and Cons: The Good, the Bad, and the Dealbreakers

No blender is perfect, and the Ninja SS401 Foodi Power Blender Ultimate System is no exception. While it packs power, versatility, and smart features, it’s not without its flaws. Let’s break down the real pros and cons so you can decide if it’s the right fit for you.

What Makes It a Solid Choice?

✅ Powerful 1600-Watt Motor – This thing blends like a beast. Whether it’s crushing ice, making thick smoothie bowls, or grinding nuts, it doesn’t struggle.

✅ Versatile Attachments – Unlike standard blenders, you get a full system with a large pitcher, a smoothie cup, and a special smoothie bowl maker.

✅ Hybrid Edge Blades Stay Sharp – The blades don’t dull quickly, even after regular use with tough ingredients.

✅ Pre-Set Auto Programs – Makes blending foolproof, especially if you don’t want to guess which speed works best for what.

✅ Durable Build Quality – The pitcher, blades, and base all feel sturdy, so you won’t have to worry about cracks or motor burnout after a few months.

✅ Handles Frozen Ingredients Well – If you love thick smoothies or frozen drinks, this blender doesn’t disappoint.

Where It Falls Short

❌ Loud at High Speeds – With 1600 watts of power, it’s not exactly quiet. If you’re blending early in the morning, be prepared for some noise.

❌ Plastic Pitcher Isn’t Heat-Resistant – Unlike high-end blenders with glass or heat-proof plastic, this one isn’t meant for hot liquids. If you want to make soup, you’ll have to let it cool first.

❌ Takes Up Counter Space – It’s bulkier than a standard blender, so if you have a small kitchen, storage might be a challenge.

❌ No Self-Cleaning Mode – Some blenders (like Vitamix) have an auto-clean function. With this one, you’ll have to rinse it manually. The good news? The parts are dishwasher-safe.

Dealbreaker or Minor Inconvenience?

Most of these downsides aren’t major dealbreakers, but they’re worth considering. If noise, size, or the lack of a self-cleaning feature are concerns, you might want to look at alternatives. But if power, versatility, and durability matter more, the Ninja SS401 is still a strong contender.

Read Also👉: Best Ninja blenders

Final Verdict: Should You Buy the Ninja SS401?

After putting the Ninja SS401 Foodi Power Blender Ultimate System through its paces, one question remains: Is it worth buying?

Who Will Love This Blender?

✅ You want power without breaking the bank – At 1600 watts, this blender delivers performance that rivals higher-end models without the hefty price tag.

✅ You make more than just smoothies – If you need a blender that can crush ice, make nut butters, blend soups (once cooled), and handle thick smoothie bowls, this one does it all.

✅ You like convenience – With pre-set blending programs, multiple attachments, and dishwasher-safe parts, it’s designed to make life easier.

✅ You don’t mind a little noise – If power is a priority and you can handle a bit of blending noise, you’ll appreciate what this machine can do.

Who Might Want to Skip It?

❌ You need a quiet blender – If noise is a dealbreaker, you might want to look at lower-powered options.

❌ You plan to blend hot liquids – The plastic pitcher isn’t heat-resistant, so if you regularly make hot soups, you’ll need to let them cool first.

❌ You have very limited counter space – This blender is larger than standard models, so storage could be tricky in a small kitchen.

Final Thoughts

The Ninja SS401 Foodi Power Blender Ultimate System offers excellent value for its price. It’s powerful, versatile, and well-built, making it a solid choice for most kitchens. While it has a few minor drawbacks, they don’t outweigh its strengths.

If you want a high-performance blender without spending $400+ on a premium brand, this Ninja SS401 is one of the best options available.

So, are you ready to upgrade your blending game, or are you still on the fence?