Ninja BL660 Professional Compact Smoothie & Food vs nutribullet Ultra Plus+ 3-1 Compact Kitchen

Overview of the Ninja BL660 and NutriBullet Ultra Plus

The Ninja BL660 Professional Compact Smoothie & Food Processing Blender is priced at $139.99, while the NutriBullet Ultra Plus+ 3-1 Compact Kitchen System is slightly cheaper at $134.99—about 4% less. Both products cater to those seeking powerful blending capabilities, but they serve slightly different culinary needs. The Ninja focuses on smoothie and food processing, while the NutriBullet stands out for its versatility as a multi-functional kitchen system.

Performance and Power

Performance-wise, the NutriBullet Ultra Plus boasts a robust 1200-watt motor, making it the more powerful option compared to the Ninja’s 1100-watt motor. This extra power might appeal to users looking for efficient food processing and grinding capabilities. The NutriBullet is designed to handle a variety of tasks, including blending, chopping, and grinding coffee beans and spices, making it a more versatile choice for those who want an all-in-one kitchen appliance.

Blending Capacity

The Ninja BL660 excels in blending capacity with a 72 oz. pitcher, allowing for larger batches of smoothies and frozen drinks. This makes it an ideal choice for parties or family gatherings where serving multiple people is necessary. In contrast, the NutriBullet Ultra Plus includes two blending cups—32 oz. and 24 oz.—which, while useful for personal servings, may not satisfy those needing to prepare larger quantities at once.

Functionality and Versatility

The NutriBullet Ultra Plus stands out for its versatility as it functions not just as a blender but also as a food processor and coffee grinder. With this system, users can chop, slice, and grind, making it a more comprehensive kitchen tool. In comparison, the Ninja BL660 focuses on blending and food processing, equipped with three manual speeds and a single-serve function, which is excellent for dedicated smoothie lovers but offers less variety in functionality.

Ease of Use and Cleaning

Both products are designed with user convenience in mind. The Ninja BL660 features BPA-free and dishwasher-safe removable parts, ensuring easy cleanup after use. Similarly, the NutriBullet Ultra Plus also emphasizes ease of use, with all attachments locking seamlessly into place and the intuitive glow interface for operation. However, the Ninja’s larger pitcher could be more cumbersome to clean compared to the smaller cups of the NutriBullet, which may be a consideration for those prioritizing quick cleanup.

Portability and Storage

When it comes to portability, the Ninja BL660 offers two 16 oz. to-go cups with spout lids, making it convenient for users who want to take their smoothies on the go. This is particularly beneficial for active individuals or families. The NutriBullet Ultra Plus, while also compact, focuses on providing a streamlined design for small kitchen spaces but does not specifically cater to on-the-go convenience in the same way, which could be a drawback for users who frequently travel or commute.

Price and Value

With the Ninja BL660 priced at $139.99 and the NutriBullet Ultra Plus at $134.99, the NutriBullet is the better value option—about $5 cheaper. However, the choice between them should hinge on the specific features that resonate more with the buyer. The Ninja offers a larger capacity and specialized smoothie functions, while the NutriBullet adds versatility with its multi-functional design, which might justify its price for some users.

Which should you buy?

Ultimately, the choice between the Ninja BL660 and the NutriBullet Ultra Plus depends on your culinary needs. If you are primarily focused on making large batches of smoothies or frozen drinks, the Ninja BL660 shines with its larger pitcher and smoothie-specific features. However, if you're looking for a versatile kitchen system that combines blending, food processing, and coffee grinding, the NutriBullet Ultra Plus is the superior choice. Its slightly lower price and multi-functional capabilities make it an attractive option for those seeking an all-in-one solution.