Introduction
Ninja coffee makers have earned a reputation for blending innovation, versatility, and convenience to elevate the at-home coffee brewing experience. With a range of models designed to suit various preferences and lifestyles. Ninja coffee makers offer features such as customizable brewing options, user-friendly interfaces, sleek modern designs, and affordable pricing. Whether you’re a coffee aficionado seeking the perfect espresso or a busy individual in need of a quick cup of drip coffee, Ninja coffee makers deliver quality and convenience with every brew.
Our Top Picks
Ninja 12-Cup Programmable Coffee Brewer
Features
- 12-cup glass carafe: Brews up to 12 cups of coffee at a time
- 2 brew styles: Choose “Classic” for a balanced flavor or “Rich” for a bolder taste
- Hotter brewing technology: Advanced boiler ensures your coffee is hot and flavorful
- Small batch setting: Brews perfect coffee for 1-4 cups
- Mid-brew pause: Grab a cup before the brewing cycle finishes
- Programmable: Set the coffee maker to brew automatically at a specific time
- Dishwasher-safe parts: Carafe, filter basket, and water reservoir are all dishwasher safe
- Fold-away brew stand: Accommodates different mug sizes
- Hidden spoon storage: Conveniently stores the included coffee scoop
- Automatic shutoff: Turns off automatically after 2 hours to save energy
- Reusable permanent filter: No need for paper filters
- Indicator lights: Easy to see when the coffee maker is brewing, warming, or cleaning
- Audio alerts: Beeps to let you know when the coffee is ready
- Adjustable Warming Plate: The warming plate keeps your coffee fresh and flavorful for up to 4 hours
- Removable Water Reservoir: The 60-oz. water reservoir is removable for easy filling
Overview
The Ninja CE251 12-Cup Coffee Brewer is a reasonably priced and user-friendly option for coffee lovers. However, its predominantly plastic construction may leave some users feeling that it’s less sturdy compared to other coffee makers. Additionally, the setup process, which involves priming the machine with two full cycles of water, may seem excessive to some.
One of the standout features of this coffee maker is its Auto-iQ One Touch Intelligence, allowing users to choose between small batch (1-4 cups) or full carafe brewing options. The permanent filter works efficiently, but users also have the option to use paper filters if preferred.
Unfortunately, some users have reported issues with the 1-4 Cup function not working after a month of use, and Ninja charges for warranty shipment, which may be a drawback for some customers.
Space-saving in the kitchen can be challenging, but the compact design of this coffee maker helps alleviate some of these concerns. The control panel is clearly labeled and easy to navigate, simplifying the brewing process.
To use the Ninja CE251, simply place the coffee grounds into the permanent filter (or a paper filter if desired) and insert it into the brew basket. Additionally, all parts of the coffee maker are dishwasher-friendly (top rack only), making cleanup a breeze.
Overall, despite some minor drawbacks, the Ninja CE251 12-Cup Coffee Brewer impresses with its convenience features and reliable performance, making it a worthy addition to any kitchen.
Pros
- Brews both small and large quantities
- User-friendly
- Contemporary design
- Affordably priced
Cons
- Constructed primarily of plastic
Ninja Dual Brew Pro Specialty Coffee System CFP301
Features
- Dual brewing: Brews both coffee grounds and K-Cup pods
- 4 brew styles: Choose Classic, Rich, Over Ice, or Specialty for customized coffee strength
- 9 grounds brew sizes: (Small Cup, Cup, XL Cup, Travel Mug, XL Travel Mug, ¼ Carafe, ½ Carafe, ¾ Carafe, or Full carafe) in addition to 4 traditional pod brew sizes (6, 8, 10, or 12 oz)
- Specialty Brew: This setting makes concentrated coffee (4 oz) for creating lattes, cappuccinos, and other specialty drinks
- Independent hot water system: Provides additional hot water for tea, oatmeal, or pre-heating mugs
- Fold-away frother: Creates creamy milk foam for lattes, cappuccinos, and other specialty drinks
- Removable 60-oz multi-position water reservoir: Fills easily and accommodates different positions
- Mid-brew pause: Grab a cup without interrupting the brewing cycle
- Compact design: Fits comfortably on most countertops
- Hidden spoon storage: Keeps the included scoop handy
- Programmable Auto-Start: Schedule your coffee to brew automatically at the desired time
- Keep Warm Function: Maintains the coffee temperature in the carafe for up to 2 hours
Overview
The CFP301 is a compact dual coffee maker, measuring just 11.39 inches long, 9.13 inches wide, and 15.54 inches tall. If the reservoir is put at the back, it makes it even smaller, only 7 inches broad.
This model offers a versatile coffee brewing system, accommodating both grounds and pods. With 9 grounds brew sizes and 4 pod brew sizes, you can customize your coffee experience. The coffee maker also features a separate hot water system with two temperature settings (Hot & Boil), perfect for preparing instant soups, oatmeal, or hot cocoa. This system ensures that the hot water is kept clean and uncontaminated, as it doesn’t mix with any previously brewed coffee.
A standout feature is the built-in frother for hot or cold milk, providing silky-smooth froth for various coffeehouse-style drinks. The coffee maker can brew a concentrated 4-ounce coffee for specialty beverages like lattes and cappuccinos.
Notably, it accommodates mugs up to 5.5 inches when the drip tray has been unfolded, and travel mugs up to 8.5 inches. The unit is easy to clean with a dedicated clean function, dishwasher-safe parts, and a removable pod adaptor for deep cleaning convenience.
Pros
- Versatile: Brews both single-serve and carafes, with coffee grounds or K-Cup pods
- The coffee maker has a separate hot water dispenser that is independent of the coffee dispenser to eliminate cross-contamination
- Touchpad interface, quiet operation, sleek design
- It doesn’t take up much space
Cons
- The Ninja pod adapter is not compatible with the K-Cup coffee filter
- The specialty brew is not as good as a real espresso
- May be expensive compared to other coffee makers
Ninja CM401 Specialty 10-Cup Coffee Maker
Features
- 6 Brew Sizes: Single cup, XL single cup, 1/2 carafe, full carafe, Specialty (concentrated coffee for lattes), Over Ice (iced coffee)
- 4 Brew Styles: Classic, Rich, Over Ice, Specialty
- Fold-Away Frother: Froths hot or cold milk for creamy lattes and cappuccinos
- Intelligent Warming Plate: Automatically adjusts temperature to keep coffee warm without burning
- Advanced Showerhead: Distributes water evenly over coffee grounds for optimal extraction
- Pause & Serve Function: Grab a cup mid-brew without interrupting the entire pot
- Programmable: You can set the machine to brew coffee automatically at any time
- 40 oz. Removable Water Reservoir: Easy to fill and clean
- Permanent Gold-Tone Filter: Saves money and reduces waste compared to paper filters
- Dishwasher-Safe Parts: Carafe, frother, and filter basket are dishwasher-safe for easy cleaning
- Brew Basket Size: Designed to fit a #4 cone paper filter
- Quiet Operation: Brews coffee with minimal noise
Overview
The Ninja CM401 Specialty Coffee Maker offers several noteworthy features that enhance the brewing experience. One standout feature is the Intelligent Warming Plate, which activates automatically during Half or Full Carafe size brewing of Classic or Rich brews. This plate adjusts its heat output to prevent coffee from burning over time. Users can customize the duration the warming plate stays on, up to 4 hours, and set the temperature to either High or Low. By default, it’s set to remain on for 2 hours at a high temperature to maintain coffee warmth, but the Low setting helps preserve flavor longer.
This coffee maker is SCA certified, meeting the organization’s Golden Cup Standard for optimal extraction and strength. The certification testing focused on the Half and Full Carafe sizes using the Classic brew with the Low warming plate setting, ensuring consistent quality in every cup.
One convenient aspect is the Specialty Brew, which consistently yields 4 oz without the need for size adjustments. Additionally, the Ninja CM401 comes with a permanent filter, reducing the need for paper filters. However, users can use a #4 paper cone filters if desired.
In summary, the Ninja CM401 Specialty Coffee Maker offers a range of features that cater to coffee enthusiasts seeking convenience, consistency, and quality in their brews.
Pros
- Versatile brewing options
- Intelligent Warming Plate
- Permanent filter included
- Removable Water Reservoir and Filter Basket
Cons
- Large footprint
Ninja PB041ST Pods & Grounds Single-Serve Coffee Maker
Features
- Dual Brewing Options: Brew coffee using either coffee pods or ground coffee
- Single-Serve Brewing: Brew coffee in single servings, perfect for individuals or households with varying coffee preferences
- Three Brew Styles: Classic: For a timeless coffee taste, Rich: Brews a stronger cup, Over Ice: Perfect for iced coffee
- Pod Brew Sizes: Choose from 6, 8, 10, or 12 ounces
- Grounds Brew Sizes: Select from 6, 8, 10, 12, 18, or 24 ounces
- Specialty Brew: Exclusive feature that brews a single 4-ounce serving of specialty coffee, ensuring a concentrated and flavorful experience
- Removable Reservoir: Features a convenient 56-ounce water reservoir for easy refilling
- Included Accessories: Ninja Scoop, Removable brew basket, Ninja pod adapter, Permanent filter
- Integrated Milk Frother: Enjoy creamy lattes, cappuccinos, and other specialty coffee drinks with ease
- Altitude Adjustment: When you activate the high altitude mode, the coffee maker adjusts its brewing parameters to account for the lower air pressure
- Adjustable drip tray: To accommodate various cup sizes
Overview
The Ninja PB041ST Pods & Grounds Single-Serve Coffee Maker offers a plethora of features that cater to coffee enthusiasts seeking convenience, versatility, and quality in their daily brews.
One standout feature is its optimized brewing capability, ensuring a well-balanced cup of coffee regardless of atmospheric pressure. This means whether you’re in mountainous regions or areas with reduced atmospheric pressure, you can trust that your coffee will brew optimally every time, without the risk of under or over-extraction.
The appliance’s sleek design with a slender footprint makes it a perfect fit for any kitchen, even those with limited countertop space. Its ability to fit under standard kitchen cabinets, even with the lid fully open, adds to its convenience.
Another impressive feature is the adjustable drip tray, which can be raised or lowered to accommodate different cup sizes. Whether you’re using a small espresso cup or a tall travel mug, the adjustable drip tray ensures that your coffee is dispensed directly into your cup without any mess. The range of adjustability, from a minimum of 3 ¼ inches to a maximum of 8 inches, caters to various preferences and needs.
The inclusion of an over ice brew option adds to the machine’s versatility. When selecting the over ice brew, the machine automatically adjusts the brewing quantity, ensuring that your iced coffee is perfectly balanced and not diluted. For example, if you select 8 ounces, it will brew 4 ounces, providing a refreshing and flavorful iced coffee experience.
Pros
- Accommodates various cup sizes without spills
- Provides the perfect balance for iced coffee by automatically adjusting the brewing quantity, preventing dilution
- Quiet Operation: Brews without disrupting the household
- Altitude Adjustment: The feature that adapts brewing parameters for high altitudes ensures consistent flavor
Cons
- When selecting the over ice brew style, it brews half the ounces chosen. Adjust accordingly
- Limited color options
Ninja CFN601 Espresso & Coffee Barista System
Features
- Versatile Brewing: Capable of brewing both espresso and coffee
- 19-Bar Pressure System: Delivers optimal pressure and temperature for barista-quality, flavorful espresso with crema
- Three Espresso Brew Styles: Provides options for classic, rich, and over ice espresso brew styles
- Three Ground Coffee Brew Styles: Offers Classic, Rich, or Over Ice brew options
- Used Capsule Storage Bin: Holds up to 20 capsules, facilitating easy recycling
- Selectable Brew Sizes: Choose from 9 different sizes, ranging from single cup to full 12-cup carafe
- Built-in Milk Frother: Equipped with a milk frother for creating creamy and frothy milk for lattes, cappuccinos, and other specialty drinks
- Adjustable Cup Tray: Accommodates various cup sizes, from small espresso cups to large travel mugs
- 60-oz Removable Water Reservoir: Easy to fill and clean
- Programmable Brewing: Allows users to set the brew time in advance
- LCD Display: Provides clear and intuitive control over the brewing process, allowing users to monitor settings and brewing progress
- Sleek Design: Modern and stylish design enhances the aesthetic appeal of any kitchen countertop
- Keep Warm Function: Maintains coffee temperature in the carafe for up to 2 hours
Overview
The Ninja CFN601 Espresso and Coffee system boasts a sleek and attractive design, with its black finish and stainless-steel accents blending seamlessly to complement modern kitchen styles.
This versatile machine is capable of producing both espressos and drip coffee, offering flexibility to suit different preferences. However, it’s important to note that the espresso maker utilizes pods rather than coffee grounds. For those seeking an authentic espresso experience with freshly ground beans, this aspect may be a drawback, necessitating the consideration of alternative machines.
Furthermore, it’s crucial to be aware that only certain types of pods are compatible with the Ninja CFN601. Only the OriginalLine Nespresso capsules are suitable for use in this machine, with K-cups being incompatible.
Although the coffee maker does not come with a permanent filter, users have the option to purchase a reusable filter separately or utilize number 4 cone filters.
One notable feature of this machine is its warming plate, which helps maintain the temperature of brewed coffee. By default, the warmer plate switches off after 2 hours, but this duration is adjustable between 0 to 4 hours. Additionally, users can adjust the temperature of the warmer between high, medium, or low settings. It’s worth mentioning that the warming plate does not activate when brewing coffee over ice.
Furthermore, the ability to control the warming plate allows users to toggle it on or off according to their preferences. This feature provides flexibility, enabling users to keep their brewed coffee warm if desired or to conserve energy by deactivating the warming plate when not needed.
Another convenient feature is the display clock, which remains visible even when the machine is switched off, providing added functionality.
In summary, the Ninja CFN601 Espresso and Coffee system offers style, versatility, and practicality. While its reliance on pods for espresso brewing and limited pod compatibility may not suit all preferences, its attractive design and range of features make it a compelling option for those seeking a blend of aesthetics and functionality in their coffee maker.
Pros
- Versatility: Brews both espresso and coffee grounds, including single-serve and carafe
- Cleaning: Dishwasher-safe parts streamline maintenance
- 19-bar pressure system and Barista Plus technology ensure consistent, flavorful espresso with crema
Cons
- Can be significantly more expensive than standard coffee makers
Factors to consider when purchasing a Ninja coffee maker
Brewing Options: Consider the brewing options available, such as single-serve, full carafe, espresso, or specialty brews, to ensure it meets your specific preferences.
Brewing Capacity: Evaluate the brewing capacity of the coffee maker to ensure it can accommodate your typical serving size, whether you brew for yourself or a group.
Construction Material: Pay attention to the materials used in the coffee maker’s construction to assess durability and longevity.
Programmable Features: Look for programmable features like delayed brewing, adjustable brew strength, and customizable brewing settings to enhance convenience and control over your coffee brewing experience.
Filtration System: Consider the type of filtration system used in the coffee maker, such as built-in filters or compatibility with paper filters, to ensure optimal coffee flavor and ease of maintenance.
Size and Design: Take into account the size and design of the coffee maker to ensure it fits well in your kitchen space and complements your aesthetic preferences.
User-Friendliness: Evaluate the ease of use and navigation of the coffee maker’s control panel and interface to ensure a hassle-free brewing experience.
Price: Compare the price of the coffee maker with its features and capabilities to ensure it offers good value for your budget.
Final Verdict
In conclusion, Ninja coffee makers offer a compelling blend of innovation, versatility, and convenience, making them a worthy addition to any kitchen. With customizable brewing options, user-friendly interfaces, and sleek modern designs.
Ninja coffee makers cater to a wide range of preferences and lifestyles. While some models may have drawbacks such as plastic construction or lengthy setup processes, the overall value and performance they deliver make them a popular choice among coffee enthusiasts. Whether you’re seeking the perfect espresso, a quick cup of drip coffee, or the convenience of single-serve brewing, Ninja coffee makers consistently deliver quality and reliability.
