Ninja Foodi Power Pitcher System (SS351) Blender Review

Imagine having one kitchen appliance that can blend thick smoothies, process food, and even knead dough—all without stalling or struggling. That’s exactly what the Ninja SS351 Foodi Power Pitcher System promises to do. But does it actually deliver, or is it just another blender with clever marketing?

If you’re considering this model, you’re likely wondering:

• Can it handle frozen fruits and leafy greens without leaving chunks?
• Does it truly crush ice into snow, or will it burn out quickly?
• How well does it work for food processing tasks like chopping vegetables and making nut butter?
• Is it worth the price, or are there better alternatives?

To answer these questions, I put the Ninja SS351 through real-world tests and gathered insights from users who have been using it for months. Here’s everything you need to know before making a decision.

First Impressions & Design

Unboxing the Ninja SS351: What’s Inside?

The moment the box is opened, it’s clear this isn’t just another blender—it’s a complete kitchen system. Unlike traditional blenders that come with just a single pitcher, the Ninja Foodi Power Pitcher System includes multiple attachments designed for different tasks. Here’s what’s inside:

• 1400-watt motor base – The core powerhouse that drives the system.
• 72-ounce Power Blender & Processor Pitcher – The largest container, designed for blending, food processing, and making large batches.
• Hybrid Edge stainless steel blade – A multi-purpose blade that handles ice crushing, smoothie blending, and food processing.
• Dough blade attachment – Specially designed for mixing pizza dough, bread, and batter.
• 24-ounce Nutrient Extraction Cup – A personal-sized cup with a spout lid for on-the-go smoothies.
• 18-ounce Smoothie Bowl Maker – A smaller container with a built-in tamper, ideal for thick smoothie bowls or nut butter.
• Recipe guide and instruction manual – A booklet with blend ideas and basic usage tips.

Right away, the variety of attachments sets this blender apart from standard models. Instead of struggling with one pitcher for all tasks, there’s a container designed specifically for each job—whether it’s making single-serve smoothies, mixing dough, or crushing ice.

Build Quality & Design: Durable or Flimsy?

Durability matters, especially for appliances that handle tough ingredients like frozen fruit and ice. The Ninja SS351 feels solid and well-built, with a heavy motor base that stays stable even at high speeds.

The pitcher is made from high-quality BPA-free plastic, which is thick enough to handle frequent use without cracking. Some blenders develop stress fractures over time, but the material here feels sturdy. The Hybrid Edge blades are made of stainless steel, ensuring they stay sharp over time. Unlike weaker plastic or dull metal blades that struggle with tougher ingredients, these blades slice through everything effortlessly.

On the design side, the SS351 looks sleek and modern. The digital display on the motor base adds a high-tech touch, and the buttons are clearly labeled. There’s no need to guess which setting to use—everything is straightforward.

Size & Counter Space Considerations

One thing to keep in mind is counter space. The motor base is larger than most standard blenders, so it takes up a noticeable amount of room. The 72-ounce pitcher also adds to the height, which means it might not fit under low-hanging kitchen cabinets.

However, the compact storage design makes it easier to keep things organized. The extra cups and attachments don’t take up as much space as expected, and since everything stacks neatly, it’s manageable even in smaller kitchens.

Ease of Setup: Complicated or Simple?

Setting up the Ninja Foodi Power Pitcher System SS351 is quick and hassle-free. The attachments click into place smoothly, and the pitcher locks onto the base securely. Unlike some blenders where you have to twist and force things into position, this system is designed for easy assembly. The lid has a secure locking mechanism, ensuring it won’t pop off mid-blend.

Each attachment is clearly labeled, so there’s no confusion about which blade or container to use for different tasks. Even without reading the manual, it’s easy to figure out how everything works.

Lid & Pouring Spout: Practical or Annoying?

One common issue with blenders is awkward lids that are either too tight or too loose. The Ninja SS351’s foodie blender lid design is well-thought-out—it fits snugly without being difficult to remove. The built-in pouring spout makes it easy to serve drinks without making a mess. The lid also has a handle for easy lifting, which is a small but useful touch.

First Impression Takeaway

From the unboxing to the first setup, the Ninja SS351 gives off a premium feel. It’s built to handle serious kitchen tasks, with a sturdy motor, well-designed attachments, and user-friendly features. The size might be a consideration for smaller kitchens, but the functionality makes up for it. With everything set up and ready, the real test comes in performance—how well does it actually blend, process, and mix?

Ninja Foodie Performance & Power

Does the 1400-Watt Motor Deliver?

Although, a blender can look great on the counter, but what really matters is how well it performs. With a 1400-watt motor, the Ninja Foodi Power Blender & Processor System SS351is built for heavy-duty tasks—crushing ice, making thick smoothies, processing dough, and more. But does it actually live up to the numbers?

After putting it to the test, the power is undeniable. Ice turns into snow in seconds, frozen fruit blends smoothly without leftover chunks, and even tough ingredients like nuts and seeds are processed effortlessly. There’s no hesitation or struggle—the motor stays strong, maintaining a steady speed instead of fluctuating or stalling like weaker blenders often do.

For reference, standard countertop blenders typically have 500 to 1000 watts of power, so 1400 watts is a serious upgrade. It’s not just about blending faster; it’s about handling tougher ingredients without overheating or burning out.

Crushing Ice & Frozen Ingredients: Smooth or Gritty?

One of the biggest challenges for any blender is dealing with ice and frozen fruit. Some blenders leave behind tiny chunks, while others struggle to break down solid pieces at all. With the SS351’s Hybrid Edge blades, the results are impressively smooth.

• Crushed ice test: Ice cubes turn into fine snow-like texture within seconds—ideal for slushies or frozen drinks.
• Frozen fruit test: No need to thaw berries or bananas beforehand. The blades cut through everything cleanly, delivering a creamy consistency.
• Smoothie test: Whether using leafy greens, frozen fruit, or protein powders, no lumps or separation were noticed in the final blend.

The high-torque motor ensures consistent power, meaning the blades don’t slow down even with heavier loads.

Dough Mixing & Food Processing: Is It a True Kitchen System?

Unlike regular blenders, the Ninja SS351 includes a dough blade, which means it can handle pizza dough, cookie batter, and bread mixtures. Many blenders claim to have this feature, but most end up struggling or requiring constant scraping. Surprisingly, this one actually works.

• Dough test: The blender mixed pizza dough in under a minute with an even texture—no dry pockets or overworked areas.
• Nut butter test: Processing peanuts into peanut butter took about three minutes, resulting in a creamy texture with no added oils.

Having this food processing capability eliminates the need for a separate appliance, making the SS351 a true multi-purpose kitchen system rather than just a high-powered blender.

Performance Summary

Ninja SS351 doesn’t just blend—it crushes, processes, and mixes with impressive efficiency. The 1400-watt motor handles everything from ice to dough without struggle, and the smart programs make blending easier than ever.

Features & Functionality

More Than Just a Blender—What Can It Really Do?

At first glance, the Ninja SS351 Foodi Power Blender & Processor System looks like a regular high-powered blender. But once you start using it, it becomes clear that this is more of an all-in-one kitchen system rather than just a smoothie maker. With multiple attachments and built-in smart technology, it can handle a surprising number of tasks.

Auto-iQ Programs: Do They Make a Difference?

One of the standout features is Auto-iQ Technology—a set of pre-programmed blending cycles designed to take the guesswork out of food prep. Instead of manually adjusting speed or stopping to stir, you just select a mode, and the blender does everything automatically.

Each program is tailored to a specific task, adjusting the blend speed, pulsing, and pausing at the right moments:

• Smoothie Mode – Designed for fruit, vegetables, and ice, this mode blends ingredients into a perfectly creamy texture. No chunks, no need to re-blend.
• Extract Mode – Optimized for breaking down tougher, fibrous ingredients like kale, nuts, or seeds, ensuring everything is fully blended.
• Dough Mode – Uses controlled pulses to knead dough, making it easy to prepare pizza or bread dough without overworking it.
• Bowl Mode – Ideal for thicker blends like acai bowls, nut butters, or frozen desserts, providing a consistent texture.
• Spread Mode – Specifically for nut butters, hummus, or dips, preventing overheating while blending.
• Crush Mode – Designed for ice and frozen drinks, delivering a fine, slush-like consistency.

In actual use, these programs aren’t just gimmicks—they work really well. Pressing a single button and letting the blender adjust itself is a major convenience, especially for things like smoothie bowls or dough where consistency is key.

Hybrid Edge Blades: Do They Stay Sharp?

Blades make all the difference in a blender’s performance, and the Hybrid Edge blades on the SS351 are built to last. Unlike traditional flat blades, these have a multi-level design that improves blending efficiency.

• Ice and frozen fruit? No problem—crushed smoothly in seconds.
• Greens and fibrous ingredients? Blended without leftover bits or separation.
• Nut butters? No added oil needed, and the result is smooth and creamy.

Many blenders lose their sharpness over time, but stainless steel construction ensures these blades stay effective even with frequent use.

SmartTorque Technology: What’s the Benefit?

Another unique feature is SmartTorque technology, which helps maintain blending power even with thick mixtures.

Ever used a blender where the motor slows down when blending frozen fruit or thick batter? That’s exactly what SmartTorque prevents. It keeps the motor running at a steady speed, ensuring a smooth blend without stalling or overheating.

It’s especially noticeable when making dough, nut butters, or thick smoothie bowls, where many blenders struggle. Instead of needing to stop and stir, the SS351 powers through effortlessly.

Variable Speed Control: More Precision When You Need It

Beyond the Auto-iQ programs, there’s also a manual speed control that lets you adjust blending speed on the fly. Some recipes need a gentle blend, while others require full power, and the SS351 gives you total control.

This is particularly useful for:

• Chopping vegetables without turning them into mush.
• Mixing salsas with a chunkier texture.
• Gradually increasing speed to prevent splattering.

The combination of Auto-iQ programs and manual controls gives flexibility, making it useful for both beginners and experienced cooks.

Usability & Convenience: Is It Easy to Use?

With all these features, you might wonder—is it complicated to use? Surprisingly, no. Everything is clearly labeled, the digital display is easy to read, and attachments lock into place without hassle.

The biggest usability highlights:

• Lid locks securely—no risk of accidental spills.
• Pour spout is well-designed, making it easy to serve drinks without mess.
• Attachments click in effortlessly, so setup and cleanup are simple.

Even if you’ve never used a high-powered blender before, the learning curve is minimal.

Feature Summary

The Ninja SS351 isn’t just a high-wattage blender—it’s a full kitchen tool with smart features that actually make a difference. From Auto-iQ programs that handle everything for you to blades that stay sharp over time, it’s designed for convenience and versatility.

Ease of Cleaning & Maintenance

Is Cleaning This Blender a Hassle?

One of the biggest frustrations with blenders—especially high-powered ones—is cleaning. Nobody wants to spend more time scrubbing blades and rinsing out sticky residue than actually using the blender. So, how easy is the Ninja SS351 to clean?

The good news: It’s designed for quick and easy cleanup. The parts that get dirty—like the pitcher, lid, and blades—are dishwasher safe, which makes a huge difference. If you don’t feel like hand-washing, just toss them in, and you’re done.

For those who prefer to wash by hand, the process is pretty simple. The Hybrid Edge blades don’t have tiny crevices where food gets stuck, so a quick rinse usually removes most residue. A bit of soap, warm water, and a gentle brush will take care of anything left behind.

Self-Cleaning Trick—Does It Work?

Like many blenders, the SS351 can self-clean with a little help. Here’s what works best:

1. Fill the pitcher halfway with warm water.
2. Add a drop of dish soap.
3. Run the blender on high speed or use the pulse function for 30–60 seconds.
4. Rinse it out, and it’s clean—no scrubbing needed.

For sticky blends like nut butter or dough, soaking for a few minutes before running the self-cleaning cycle helps loosen up any residue.

How Durable Are the Parts?

Plastic pitchers often get scratched, foggy, or stained over time, but the SS351’s materials hold up well. The Tritan pitcher is BPA-free, impact-resistant, and doesn’t retain odors or stains. Even after blending turmeric or berry smoothies, it doesn’t hold onto color like cheaper plastic does.

The blades, made from stainless steel, also stay sharp longer than typical blender blades. Some blenders need blade replacements within a year, but these are built for long-term use.

What About Long-Term Maintenance?

To keep everything in top shape:

• Rinse immediately after use—prevents buildup, especially with sticky ingredients.
• Avoid harsh scouring pads—a soft sponge is enough.
• Check the gasket seal regularly—this prevents leaks and ensures a tight fit.

If taken care of properly, the Ninja SS351 can last for years without losing performance.

Noise Level & User Experience

Is It Loud Enough to Wake the Whole House?

Let’s be real—blenders are never quiet. But there’s a difference between normal loud and ear-splitting jet engine loud. Some high-powered blenders can be so noisy that using them early in the morning feels like a personal attack on anyone sleeping nearby.

So, where does the Ninja SS351 fall on the noise scale?

• On lower settings, like the dough and spread modes, it’s surprisingly quiet—you could probably have a conversation without shouting.
• At full power (especially when crushing ice or frozen fruit), it gets loud, but not unbearable.
• Compared to high-end blenders like a Vitamix or Blendtec, it’s actually a little quieter—but it’s still a blender, so expect some noise.

Can You Do Anything to Reduce the Noise?

If you’re worried about waking people up, here are some simple tricks:

• Use a rubber mat under the base to absorb vibrations.
• Blend in short bursts rather than running it at full power for long periods.
• Move it away from walls or cabinets, which can amplify the sound.

While it’s not the quietest appliance in the kitchen, it’s not going to make your ears ring either.

How Easy Is It to Use?

Some kitchen gadgets come with a steep learning curve, but the Ninja SS351 keeps things simple. The control panel is straightforward, with clearly labeled buttons and Auto-iQ programs that take the guesswork out of blending.

• No need to manually adjust speeds—the presets handle it for you.
• The digital display counts down the blending time, so you always know when it’s done.
• The start/stop button is easy to use, even when hands are messy.

For anyone who hates complicated kitchen gadgets, this is a huge plus.

Does It Require Constant Stopping & Scraping?

One of the most annoying things about some blenders is having to stop constantly to push ingredients down. But thanks to the SmartTorque motor and Hybrid Edge blades, the Ninja SS351 keeps everything moving without requiring extra effort.

• No need to stop and stir when making smoothies—ingredients blend evenly.
• No big chunks getting stuck under the blades, even with frozen fruit.
• Thicker mixtures (like nut butters) may need occasional scraping, but the built-in Spread Mode helps minimize that.

Are the Lids & Attachments Easy to Handle?

A common issue with some blenders is lids that are either too loose or ridiculously hard to remove.

• The main pitcher lid locks in securely, so there’s no risk of it popping off mid-blend.
• The twist-on spout cover makes pouring easy without splashing.
• The food processor attachment fits snugly, without feeling flimsy.

No struggling, no spills—just functional design that works well.

Does It Feel Convenient for Daily Use?

Some blenders are so much hassle to use and clean that they end up collecting dust. But the Ninja SS351 actually feels practical for daily use because:

• The Auto-iQ programs make blending foolproof—no need to adjust settings.
• The parts are dishwasher safe, so cleanup is easy.
• It blends fast, so you’re not standing around waiting for your smoothie.

It’s the kind of blender that you actually want to use—not one that just takes up counter space.

How Does It Stack Up Against Other Ninja Blenders?

Ninja has a huge lineup of blenders, so if you’re wondering whether the SS351 is the best option, it helps to compare.

• Ninja BN701 Professional Plus Blender – This model is cheaper and has a 1400-watt motor, but it lacks the food processor bowl and dough blade. If you only need a basic blender, it’s a solid pick.
• Ninja Foodi Cold & Hot Blender (HB152) – Unlike the SS351, this one heats up for soups and sauces. However, it doesn’t come with multiple attachments, so it’s less versatile overall.
• Ninja Twisti SS151 – A more compact option, but the smaller pitcher (34 oz.) means it’s not as useful for batch prep.

For someone who wants more than just a blender, the SS351 offers better value because of its multiple attachments and food processing capabilities.

How Does It Compare to a Vitamix?

Vitamix is the gold standard for blenders, but it’s also way more expensive. Here’s how the SS351 holds up:

• Power & Performance – A Vitamix generally has more raw power and can blend hot soups from friction alone. However, the Ninja SS351 still blends smoothies, nut butters, and doughs well for a fraction of the cost.
• Durability – Vitamix blenders are built like tanks and last decades, while a Ninja will likely last several years with proper care.
• Price – A Vitamix can cost $300 to $600+, whereas the SS351 is usually under $200—making it a better budget-friendly option.

If you blend daily and want a lifetime investment, a Vitamix might be worth it. But for most home users, the Ninja SS351 offers more than enough power and versatility without the premium price tag.

How Does It Compare to a NutriBullet?

NutriBullet is great for single-serve smoothies, but it doesn’t have the versatility of the SS351.

• NutriBullet Pro 900 – A smaller, personal blender that works well for smoothies but can’t handle food processing or dough-making.
• NutriBullet RX – More powerful, but lacks the multi-use attachments that the SS351 includes.

If you just want a smoothie maker, a NutriBullet is fine. But if you want a blender that does more, the Ninja SS351 wins in terms of features and usability.

Pros & Cons Summary

At this point, you probably have a good idea of what the Ninja SS351 can do, but let’s break it down into a quick pros and cons list to make things clearer.

What’s Great About It?

✅ Versatile Attachments – You’re getting a blender, food processor, and dough maker in one. Most blenders don’t offer this level of functionality.

✅ Powerful Motor – The 1400-watt SmartTorque motor doesn’t stall, even with thick mixtures like nut butter or dough.

✅ Auto-iQ Programs – If you hate guessing which speed to use, these one-touch blending modes make things easy.

✅ Great for Smoothies & Frozen Drinks – The Hybrid Edge Blades crush ice like a champ, so no weird chunks in your drinks.

✅ Handles Dough & Food Processing Well – Unlike most blenders, it can knead dough, chop veggies, and make spreads.

✅ Easy to Clean – All parts are dishwasher safe, and the self-clean function helps if you don’t want to scrub by hand.

✅ More Affordable Than High-End Blenders – You get a lot of features for the price, making it a budget-friendly alternative to a Vitamix.

Where It Falls Short

❌ Can Be Noisy at High Speeds – While not the loudest blender out there, it’s still not whisper-quiet when running at full power.

❌ Not Ideal for Hot Blending – Unlike some premium blenders, it can’t heat soups through friction. You’d have to heat them separately.

❌ Plastic Pitcher Instead of Glass – Some people prefer glass pitchers for durability and avoiding scratches, but this one is BPA-free plastic.

❌ Takes Up Counter Space – With all the attachments, it needs decent storage space in your kitchen.

Does the Good Outweigh the Bad?

For most people, yes. The pros far outweigh the cons, especially if you need an all-in-one blending and food processing system at a reasonable price.

Who Should Buy the Ninja SS351?

At this point, you might be wondering: Is this the right blender for me, or should I keep looking? Let’s break it down based on who will love it and who might want to consider something else.

This Blender Is Perfect For:

✔️ Smoothie & Shake Enthusiasts – If you’re serious about smoothies, protein shakes, or frozen drinks, the Hybrid Edge Blades crush ice effortlessly and create super smooth blends without annoying chunks.

✔️ Meal Preppers & Home Cooks – Need to chop veggies, knead dough, or blend soups? The food processor bowl and dough blade make it more than just a blender. It’s a time-saver for anyone who cooks regularly.

✔️ Families & Busy Households – With large-capacity containers and one-touch blending programs, it’s great for multiple servings and easy enough for anyone to use.

✔️ People Who Want a Blender That Does More – If you don’t want to buy separate appliances for blending, food processing, and dough making, this is an all-in-one solution that saves space and money.

Who Might Want Something Else?

❌ Anyone Looking for a Compact Blender – If you just need a small personal blender for single-serve smoothies, something like the NutriBullet might be a better fit.

❌ People Who Want a Blender That Heats Soup – Unlike high-end models like Vitamix or Ninja’s Cold & Hot Blender, the SS351 doesn’t heat ingredients. You’d have to blend first, then heat separately.

❌ Those Who Need an Ultra-Durable Blender for Years of Heavy Use – While sturdy for its price, it’s not built like a Vitamix. If you’re a daily power user, a higher-end model might last longer.

Is It the Right Fit for You?

If you want a powerful, multi-functional blender that won’t break the bank, the Ninja SS351 is a solid choice. However, if you need something ultra-compact or want a premium, long-lasting blender, you might want to explore other options.

Final Verdict

After testing, researching, and comparing, one thing is clear—the Ninja SS351 is more than just a blender. It’s a multi-functional kitchen tool that combines blending, food processing, and dough-making into one machine. But is it worth buying?

What Stands Out the Most?

The biggest advantage of the Ninja SS351 is its versatility. Most blenders are just that—blenders. This one handles everything from smoothies and nut butters to chopping veggies and kneading dough. The 1400-watt SmartTorque motor ensures consistent performance, even when dealing with thicker mixtures that would make other blenders struggle.

The Auto-iQ programs are another win. Instead of guessing which speed or mode to use, you can simply press a button and let the blender do the work. This makes it beginner-friendly while still being powerful enough for experienced users.

Is It Worth the Price?

If you compare it to a high-end blender like a Vitamix, the Ninja SS351 doesn’t quite match the premium build and power. But considering it costs significantly less while offering a ton of functionality, it’s one of the best value-for-money blenders available.

That said, it’s not for everyone. If you only need a small, personal blender, or if you’re looking for a machine that heats soup, you might want to explore other options. But for most people—especially those who want a blender that does more than just make smoothies—the Ninja SS351 is a fantastic buy.

Final Thoughts

If you want a powerful, multi-purpose kitchen appliance that can replace multiple gadgets, the Ninja SS351 is a solid investment. It’s great for families, meal preppers, and anyone who loves smoothies, dips, sauces, and dough-making. While it’s not as premium as some high-end blenders, it offers incredible performance for its price.

So, if you’re looking for a blender that can do it all without costing a fortune, this might be the one.