For yet another summer, we’re facing record-breaking temperatures – and in an older home without air conditioning, I’m feeling every degree of it.

When I first came across the Ninja SLUSHi 88 oz Frozen Drink Maker, I honestly thought it was more gimmick than essential – just another single-use appliance that would end up gathering dust. But after weeks of 95°F heat and no real relief, it’s become one of the most-used ways I’ve found to stay cool without AC.

From frozen lemonades and classic slushies to frozen cocktails, it turns everyday drinks into genuinely refreshing heatwave essentials. And with the Ninja SLUSHi 88oz currently $150 off at Target, there’s rarely been a better time to add one to your kitchen ahead of the 4th of July.

I have the larger Ninja SLUSHi Max from Amazon, which I reviewed earlier this year, and I didn’t expect to love it quite as much as I do.

The Ninja SLUSHi, also available at Target, works by taking any liquid with at least five grams of sugar per 100 millilitres and continuously churning and chilling it at the same time, producing a smooth, icy drink in just minutes. Even at full capacity, the 88 oz model can make around seven to eight servings in about an hour, which makes it perfect for entertaining or hot-weather batch drinks.

It uses RapidChill technology, so there’s no need to pre-freeze or add ice, which keeps the whole process simple and fuss-free. It’s a strong alternative to the best blenders, especially if you’re tired of experimenting only to end up with something that doesn’t quite hit that classic soda-shop texture.

I’ve tried everything from fizzy lemonade to pure fruit juices and enjoyed every single one. And for those with a more refined palate, it also handles alcoholic slushes beautifully, adding a fun but elevated twist to summer dinner parties.

For those hosting smaller gatherings or wishing to create personal sweet treats, the 72-oz Ninja SLUSHi is under $180 at Walmart, now too.

What Else to Shop

All you really need is the Ninja SLUSHi (also available at QVC) and a glass to start turning out frozen drinks all summer long. But if you want to take things up a notch and really impress guests, I’ve pulled together a few fun accessories that lean into that old-school soda shop nostalgia – little touches that make every slushie, frozen cocktail, or iced treat feel that bit more special.

We have a whole host of other tips for keeping cool when hosting outside in summer, too.

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As a sweet-treat lover, I think it’s unthinkable to get through summer without ice cream. Store-bought pints are fine, but making your own at home adds an extra level of fun. Besides, I can't find white chocolate caramel Kinder Bueno Oreo ice cream at the grocery store.

The Ninja CREAMi Ice Cream Maker first launched five years ago, and since then it has remained a firm favourite in the home dessert space. If you haven’t picked one up yet (why not?), there’s good news: It’s currently $50 off ahead of the heatwave.

Capable of making ice cream, sorbet, gelato, frozen yoghurt, milkshakes, and more, with full control over mix-ins, it remains one of the best ice cream makers money can buy.

Most of Europe is already suffering a heatwave, and the US is reportedly next, with triple-figure temperatures expected across most of the country.

While air conditioning and smart fan placement are key to keeping a house cool, frozen treats such as ice cream play a significant − and more entertaining − role. Store-bought does the job, but the Ninja CREAMi Deluxe gives you free rein of any ice cream recipes your mind can muster.

The Deluxe 11-in-1 gives you double the functionality, too. You can split a single base into two mix-in flavors without making a second batch. Add candy or chocolate chips to the top half, serve first, then mix cookies or nuts into the bottom and enjoy later. It is perfect for households with different tastes, or if, like me, you simply cannot make up your mind.

To make, simply add your base mix into the pint container, freeze for 24 hours, and then churn to create the silky texture for your mix ins. With extra XL pint lidded pots available at Ninja, you can have plenty of flavors stashed away to suit any mood.

What Else to Shop

Planning an ice cream social this summer? I have rounded up a selection of my must-haves for enjoying creamy treats in style.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Churning pints for a crowd? Brush up on the most common summer hosting mistakes before your guests arrive.

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A quality coffee machine has become almost as essential to the modern kitchen as a stove or sink. For those of us with limited counter space, however, café-quality coffee often comes at the cost of valuable prep room.

With the new Ninja Luxe Café Mini Plus, however, you can have the best of both worlds. Designed specifically for smaller kitchens, this compact all-in-one system delivers espresso, filter coffee, and silky café-style microfoam without dominating your countertop.

With barista assist, it removes all of the guesswork from your morning brew, too. As someone constantly fighting for precious counter real estate, I cannot wait to get my hands on what looks to be a worthy contender for the best espresso machines.

The best coffee makers have a reputation for being bulky. To reach the top spot, they often offer several functions, from multiple brew methods to built-in grinding and milk frothing − and the extra bells and whistles usually equate to more room.

The Ninja Luxe Café Mini Plus Autofroth Espresso Machine, available at Amazon, delivers all of that without the added mass. Measuring just 10.08" L x 12.17" W x 13.43", it is 30% smaller than its predecessor, the Ninja Luxe Café Pro, which we reviewed and gave five stars last year.

Our expert reviewer Lydia Hayman completely fell in love with the original, saying it was the only machine she ever wanted in her kitchen. One of her only criticisms was that the machine was too big, making this launch possibly the thing to make it truly perfect. I will be sure to put it to the test to find out.

As with the original, the Mini is a highly automated machine, with Barista Assist Technology designed to remove the guesswork from making coffee at home. The system will automatically select the best grind and shot size to give you consistent results, no matter if you are a first-time bean drinker or a trained barista. With single and double-shot espresso baskets, three brew strengths, and three hot water settings, every drink can be tailored to your preferences.

And that's just the coffee. The Luxe Cafe Mini Plus also froths your milk, with a hands-free steam wand calibrated for both dairy and plant-based milks. It's shaping up to be one of the best ways to make espresso at home.

What Else to Shop

At just under $500, the Ninja Luxe Café Mini Plus is also one of the more accessible automatic espresso machines I've come across, offering an impressive range of features without venturing into premium coffee-shop territory.

To help you get the most from your new machine, I’ve rounded up some of my favourite coffee accessories, from storage and organisation essentials to brewing tools that can help take your at-home coffee station to the next level.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Not sure which coffee style is best for you? Check out our guide to espresso versus drip for the best morning brew.

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There is nothing that screams summer like firing up the grill – the smell, the family-style meals, the gathering of friends under the sun. It's a time-honoured tradition, but it is not free from stress.

Even the best grills can make outdoor cooking difficult, be it food sticking, getting the right temperature, or having to watch it like a hawk to prevent burning. That's why Ninja's Woodfire Pro Electric Grill, available at Amazon, is number one on my summer shopping list, offering safer, quicker grilling without the fuss.

It does it all, from grilling to air frying, taking the guesswork out of summer feasts, and with $100 off in the run-up to Father's Day weekend, it is one of the best gift options too.

There tends to be some apprehension around electric grills, specifically around the lack of traditional flavor. The Ninja Woodfire Pro, however, uses real wood-burning pellets to develop that signature smoky taste without the live flame.

We reviewed its predecessor, the Ninja Woodfire, and we were seriously surprised by its performance. Despite being electric, our reviewer, Alex Temblador, shared, 'There was a delicious smoky flavor to the fish and vegetables that wasn’t overwhelming. The char created by the grill grate was incredible, too.' If the hundreds of five-star Amazon reviews are anything to go by, it is safe to say that the Pro version continues this legacy.

The added Bluetooth functionality further takes the guesswork out of cooking. While traditional grills require you to stand to attention, the Woodfire Pro uses an app to keep tabs on the progress of your meal, allowing you to monitor temperatures and adjust settings from the comfort of your outdoor dining area, so you don't have to break from socializing with guests.

What really sets the Woodfire Grill apart from your standard picks is the versatility. Ninja never shies away from functionality, and the Woodfire Pro is no different. With grill, BBQ, smoke, air fry, roast, bake, broil, and dehydrate settings, there are very few limits to what this single appliance can do. It could safely replace an entire outdoor kitchen, catering to almost any cuisine for any al fresco dinner.

It's proof that you do not need to overspend on grills to achieve superb results.

What Else to Shop

To help you get summer hosting off to the best start, I have curated the best barbecue essentials designed to complement your new Ninja Woodfie Pro, from non-stick saviours to stylish accessories.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Looking for something a little more permanent? Consider designing an outdoor kitchen for a year-round hosting setup bound to impress.

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I’ve already had endless fun experimenting with the Ninja SLUSHi, so imagine my surprise when a late-night launch introduced me to the new Ninja SLUSHi Twist, a two-in-one machine designed to swirl together dual flavors.

Built with the same technology as the Ninja SLUSHi Max – including rapid freezing, support for higher-alcohol mixes, and generous capacity – the dual-canister Twist feels like the ultimate party upgrade for memorable summer entertaining.

The internet quickly agreed that this is the best Ninja appliance for summer, with the machine shockingly selling out in only two hours, according to Ninja's socials. The good news? A restock is already on the way, and you can sign up for alerts through Ninja’s website – this is one release you won’t want to miss the second time around.

This new machine is the answer Ninja fans have been searching for, as until now, creative followers have been cleverly pairing two standard Ninja SLUSHi machines to recreate the classic ICEE-style mixes of our childhoods. the Ninja SLUSHi Twist helps you to effortlessly combine two flavors in a single system, with no mess and no fuss.

The dual canisters can be used independently or together to blend any combination of slush, opening up near-endless flavor possibilities. A manual rotating base also lets you swirl the drinks for a visually striking, layered presentation.

Using the SlushAssist function integrated in the Ninja SLUSHi Max I recently reviewed, the Dual SlushAssist™ Technology senses ingredients in each vessel and auto-adjusts temperatures, so both drinks come out perfect, every time. No ice or blenders required.

Perhaps my favorite potential use for the SLUSHi Twist is the ability to make two different drinks to suit everyone at a party. One side can be used for a fruit slush and the other for milkshakes, for instance.

Alternatively, at a family gathering, one side could be used for child-friendly juice while the other serves an adult-friendly alcoholic slush (just be sure to label which is which to avoid any serious summer hosting mistakes). It’s the perfect upgrade for regular hosts looking to impress.

Signing up for stock updates is simple. Simply add your email for notifications on the Ninja SLUSHi Twist page to know when the next drop hits.

What Else to Shop

If you do not want to wait for the restock or wish to set up your station now ahead of delivery, we have rounded up a few of the next-best machines and fun accessories to prepare your home for summer slushes.

All prices correct at time of publication.

If you are getting excited for summer, consider some chef-approved ice cream social ideas to help your party planning along.

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My love story with slush drinks started when I was five, and my parents would take me to the local play centre. So, when I learned 20 years later that I could make them in my own kitchen with a Ninja SLUSHi Max, I jumped at the opportunity to review this countertop addition.

After testing it for a few weeks in my home, I can firmly say that it is one of the most enjoyable 'novelty' appliances I have ever tried. It slushes quickly, creating wonderful, customisable drinks without the need for ice or noisy blenders, and is the perfect pre-summer investment to impress guests all season long.

With only a few minor snags that ultimately docked just half a star, this fun kitchen investment is one of the best Ninja appliances for families and regular hosts. Here's how I got on with the Ninja Slushi Max.

Product Specifications: Ninja SLUSHi Max

Design and First Impressions

I will admit that I was concerned by the size and weight of the Ninja SLUSHi Max when it first arrived on my doorstep. The box was huge, and the large numbering on the side let me know that it was 44lbs (20KG). Luckily, I lift weights regularly, meaning I was able to move it from the front door to the kitchen, but this is a bulky box to manoeuvre alone if you are not used to lifting weights.

Even then, I still needed a second pair of hands to unbox the appliance. The box is held together with two plastic straps, which must be cut off. Once removed, the top section of the box slides off, leaving the SLUSHi nestled in a cardboard base. I needed my partner's help removing the outer cardboard box to cut the straps, and again to slide this base out as I lifted the main unit.

I am thrilled to say that without all this robust packaging, the machine is lighter, at 31.99 lbs. Most of this packaging was recyclable cardboard, besides the straps and the tape.

Inside the box, there was the unit and four instruction sheets. One booklet was the regulatory information, and the other three were guides. The full instruction manual and recipe book were accompanied by a condensed QuickStart guide, which contained the essential reading. Finally, there was a troubleshooting sheet with tips for achieving the perfect consistency.

The appliance itself is large, which was expected, given that this is the Max edition, but it's not so big as to completely take over my small kitchen. All in all, I think it is very chic, especially in the gray and gold 'Mocha' colorway. It was also covered in the signature Ninja stickers full of tips taken from the manual. I decided to leave most of these on for quick reference, but otherwise, they peel off easily.

Once in position, the machine must sit on the flat surface for two hours to allow the refrigerant to settle before first use. For easy moving, you can lift the front of the machine and slide it back and forth without damaging your counter.

Performance

The Ninja SLUSHi Max has six main drink settings: SlushAssist, which detects the liquid used and chills accordingly; slush, frozen cocktail, frozen cocktail max, milkshake, and frozen juice.

The unit then has an adjustable dial with 15 more temperature settings so you can achieve the perfect consistency, from cooler and more icy, to less icy and more pourable. When slushing, the machine registers around 70 decibels, around that of a normal conversation. This is not too distracting, and closing the kitchen door when I was in the room next door dulled it enough to not be heard over the TV. I was very impressed.

It is important to note that, as with any slush, be it homemade or commercial, it is a high-sugar drink. As the SLUSHi Max makes clear, this appliance does not work with diet or low sugar drinks without added sugar or syrup. We are not making health drinks here; they are truly indulgent, as the sugar content prevents the liquid from freezing solid. The unit has a built-in 'add sugar' or 'add liquid' warning system, which I put to the test.

Otherwise, I focused on the SlushAssist and milkshake settings for my tests, using fruit juice, low-sugar drink mixes, and dairy, respectively. I did not test the cocktail setting, as I do not personally consume alcohol.

The Slushie Test

The primary function of the SLUSHi Max is to make slush drinks, so a fruit slush was my first test.

After rinsing the machine out, I poured 34fl oz of a pre-mixed coconut and pineapple juice into the top spout, turned the machine on, and hit the SlushAssist button. This programme starts by 'sensing' the liquid, mixing it around without cooling. During this time, the machine is registering the sugar content (it must be at least five grams per 100ml of liquid, which my carton juice was), and picking the right temperature for the type of liquid.

After a few minutes of sensing, the machine switched straight to 'slushing' mode, indicated by the text on the LED screen. I was getting on with making some lunch while this worked, and was surprised at how quickly it was done. I did not fill the machine up to the max line, of course, but for 34fl oz it took less than 15 minutes to form a thick slush. The more liquid, the longer it will take. A max fill of an alcoholic beverage can take up to one hour, according to the manual.

The slush was so thick that I actually found myself turning the fine-tuning dial down slightly towards the thinner mix, and let the machine do its thing. A few minutes passed, the 'enjoy' light came on, and it was much easier to dispense and enjoy. It was exactly the quality I would expect from a commercial vendor.

I repeated this test later with a protein drink mix that I knew was too low in sugar. I added three tablespoons of granulated sugar to the drink mix and mixed it up before adding it to the machine, and chose SlushAssist once again. The process began as usual, and after a few minutes, it became noticeably louder. A few seconds later, the 'add sugar' light came on.

As per instructions, I dispensed some of the liquid, added another tablespoon of sugar, mixed, and added it back in before resuming the programme. This time, the machine 'sensed' the mix for a lot longer before returning to slushing. In the end, however, the programme was completed, and the slush was perfect. The troubleshooting was quick and relatively fuss-free. I was very impressed.

The Milkshake Test

I am a milkshake snob, and I must say that the milkshake setting let me down a little. If you are looking for a super smooth, indulgent shake, this is not the machine for you. Instead, I would suggest sticking to the usual method of milk and ice cream in a blender such as the Ninja BlendBoss I reviewed.

I followed a recipe in the included booklet, mixing whole milk, whipping cream, and vanilla flavoring in a bowl before pouring it into the machine. The fact that you have to mix the ingredients before adding them annoyed me, as you have to mix enough liquid to reach the minimum fill, and you have to use a large bowl. This made a complete mess when I went to add it to the machine, and I resorted to spooning it in. It is by no means as smooth as using juice.

Once it was finally in, I used the dedicated milkshake setting and left it to run. This took a little longer than the juice, at around half an hour for 27fl oz. When it came to dispensing, it was far too thick and took forever (see the video below), and I had to turn the dial to adjust several times before it actually came out into my glass. When it did, it was very icy and slightly clumpy. If you have ever run the experiment of making ice cream by hand, shaking a bag of cream and milk in a bag of ice, it was not too dissimilar to the results of that.

It was far from the thick, silky, smooth experience I would hope for, and while not unpalatable, I cannot see myself using the machine for dairy again.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Cleaning the Ninja SLUSHi Max was surprisingly simple, albeit a little cumbersome in my small sink.

The appliance has a built-in 'rinse' setting, which runs the motor without cooling, allowing you to pour in warm water into the empty barrel and dispense, removing the bulk of residue from your drink. I used this after every cycle, filling it to the max line, and dispensing into a large mixing bowl.

In the case of cleaning after juice, this worked wonders at removing all of the residue, meaning that handwashing in the sink was easy. The unit comes apart quickly, sliding the back handle forward to release the mixing unit, which slides off the front. The auger (mixing paddle) then also slides off, and the base condensation tray slides out too. It is truly effortless.

I used a soft cloth and non-toxic dish soap (such as Attitude from Walmart) to wipe out the interior and the stainless steel cooling unit, which remains attached to the main unit. Once dry, everything slides back into the place the way it came off. It is that easy.

After using dairy in the machine, however, the process was a little more irritating. I used the same steps; however required two rinse cycles before removing the components. Beyond that, I had to make an effort to get all of the milk from every small gap. If the milkshake had been restaurant-quality, I would not have minded, but it seemed like a waste of energy.

What Shoppers Say

The overall rating on the Ninja website largely agrees with my experience, with 4.3/5 stars on average.

Of the five-star reviews, customers praise how easy the SlushAssist setting makes the process, removing the guesswork entirely. They also love how easy it is to clean.

One shopper commented that it was 'great for alcohol' with the machine able to slush drinks with up to a 20% alcohol content. 'I have the original Ninja SLUSHi, and I just received the new one. I used them both at the same time with same ingredients. I will say that the new Ninja Max performed much better when slushing alcohol and was much faster. I did not have to dilute the alcohol and was able to get a sorbet-type consistency.' I am glad to hear this, when I cannot test this function myself.

One-star reviews usually comment on customer service, which is not something we take into account for appliance reviews. Otherwise, one user claimed their machine overheated and shut off several times during use. This is not something I have had an issue with, and it is the only example I can find of this complaint.

The story is much the same on the Ninja SLUSHi Max Amazon listing, with overjoyed users loving the increased capacity and speed of slushing.

Should You Buy The Ninja Slushi Max?

All in all, I would recommend the Ninja SLUSHi Max to anyone who is looking for a fun and useful hosting addition to their kitchen this summer. It is big and really only serves one function, but it is a very fun addition for anyone with the space. I personally have a tiny kitchen, but love it so much that I am willing to go through boxing it up at the end of the summer season to store elsewhere over winter.

It is best suited to people who host regularly and people with larger households, where the extra-large capacity and quick cooling times are perfect for catering to a crowd. At $369.99 at the time of writing, it is not the most affordable novelty kitchen 'toy', but I think it is a fun investment if you have the budget and know you will get good use out of it.

What Else to Shop

To help you add to the experience and make the most of your new investment, I have selected six of the best accessories for your SLUSHi.

All prices correct at time of publication.

While planning ahead for summer, brush up on the summer hosting mistakes to avoid to keep things running smoothly.

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Even as adults, my friends and I still get unreasonably excited about an icy slush drink in the summer. Thanks to the new Ninja SLUSHI Max, I can finally make enough for everyone to share without leaving my kitchen.

At first, the large SLUSHi worried me. The extra-large upgrade over the original felt intimidating for a small kitchen. After finally getting my hands on one, though, I can confidently say it earns every inch of counter space.

Now I’m counting down to long, sun-soaked weekends putting it through its paces with slushies, milkshakes, and frozen cocktails, and am convinced that it might just be the best kitchen appliance to have on hand all summer long.

I have yet to put the Ninja SLUSHi Max to the test, although based on initial impressions and existing reviews, it is already shaping up to be one of the best Ninja summer appliances so far.

What intrigues me most is the new SlushAssist technology – a preset program designed to 'read' the drink mixture and automatically adjust the timing and temperature. Whether you’re blending fruit juices, alcoholic mixes, or creamy milkshakes, it’s built to handle the balance for you. I’ll be putting it through its paces to see just how well it adapts.

For non-dairy blends, the machine can also keep drinks chilled for up to 12 hours, making it especially useful for long summer gatherings when guests might wander back for another round well after dinner as the evening winds down. It is the ideal tool for staying cool when hosting outside.

With the increased capacity of the Ninja SLUSHi Max comes a larger footprint, and there’s no denying it’s a sizeable appliance. In my small kitchen, it claims a noticeable portion of the counter space I’d usually reserve for food prep.

That said, it’s far less imposing than the packaging initially suggests and doesn’t look out of place alongside my refrigerator. For keen hosts who regularly entertain larger groups or households with children, I think it is more than worth the counter space.

Even before putting it fully to the test, I can already see it earning a permanent spot in my summer setup. And when the colder months roll around, I’d happily go through the effort of reboxing it and tucking it away until frozen drink season returns.

More to Shop

If you’re already sold and planning ahead for summer gatherings and ice cream socials, I’ve rounded up a few key accessories to help you get the most out of your Ninja SLUSHi.

All prices correct at time of publication.

Need something smaller or more budget-friendly? We have rounded up the best Ninja SLUSHi alternatives, too.

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What makes a Mother’s Day dinner truly stand out? Effortless hosting that looks impressive on the table but keeps the kitchen calm and collected. After all, the goal is to celebrate Mom, not recruit her as an extra pair of hands.

The secret is choosing appliances that work with you, not against you. Enter the best blender–food processor combos, such as the Ninja Professional Plus Kitchen System. Think of it as the ultimate sous-chef for busy hosts.

If you’re planning a Mother’s Day menu and want it to feel special without turning your kitchen into a high-stress zone, here’s exactly how to make the most of it.

One of the biggest drains on time and energy when hosting is meal prep. Chopping, mixing, slicing, and dicing can take an age, and once guests start arriving, the last place you want to be stuck is in the kitchen. This is where having one of the best food processors saves the day. They can chop vegetables evenly in seconds or mix dough for desserts at the touch of a button, cutting prep time dramatically and freeing your time up.

What sets the Ninja Professional Plus Kitchen System apart, however, is that it combines the best blender, too, meaning it can handle everything from crushed ice for cocktails to up to four generous bowls of silky soup for starters.

Compact but powerful, it means less gadget clutter, far less prep chaos, and more time spent around the table with Mom instead of rushing around the kitchen.

Reviewed for us by our appliance expert Millie Fender, the system proved to be the most powerful of the bunch, with dishwasher-safe attachments making cleaning a kitchen after dinner just as easy, and a countdown timer for you to keep an exact eye on all of your prep.

The Auto-IQ feature offers five presets for smoothies, frozen drinks, nutrient extractions, chopped mixtures, and dough, taking the guesswork out of timings and programme settings so the appliance acts like your sous-chef, accepting delegated tasks with ease.

It really is a game-changing investment for busy hosts and passionate home cooks. And with $50 off, there has rarely been a better time to invest.

What Else to Shop

From compact appliances perfect for smaller kitchens to the table-top essentials that make a meal feel truly special, I have rounded up six pieces to help you ace your Mother's Day hosting.

All prices correct at time of publication.

With dinner arranged, consider some chic Mother's Day gifts for moms with great taste.

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Is there anything that ushers in summer quite like a cooling slushy drink? I certainly don’t think so.

That’s why as Kitchen Appliances Editor, I was excited to see the game-changing Ninja SLUSHi – one of Ninja's best summer appliances – drop to its lowest price just ahead of the summer rush. It's perfect timing to get your seasonal hosting setup in order before things heat up.

From frozen cocktails to fruit-based slushies at the touch of a button, it delivers instant refreshment in any flavour you can think of, with no mess, no fuss, and no battling ice cube trays. It’s the kind of effortless, crowd-pleasing appliance that quietly transforms summer entertaining.

The Ninja SLUSHi Is at It's Lowest Price Ever

While you can achieve a rough slush using one of the best blenders, the process can be fiddly – think repeated batches of ice cubes and a machine that isn’t always thrilled about crushing them. Even the quietest blenders can become surprisingly loud once ice enters the equation.

The Ninja SLUSHi, on the other hand, uses RapidChill Technology to freeze liquids evenly inside the machine, delivering smooth, icy drinks quickly and with minimal effort. With five preset functions for convenience, it also offers manual control if you prefer a thicker, more indulgent texture or something lighter and more refreshing.

And then there’s the clean up – the part most of us dread. While cleaning a blender can be awkward, the SLUSHi keeps things simple with dishwasher-safe components and a dedicated rinse cycle, making post-hosting clean-up almost effortless. Honestly, it’s music to my (lazy) ears.

Though we have vetted dozens of Ninja appliances, we have not reviewed the SLUSHi ourselves (it's in the pipeline), but the over 4.7/5 star reviews on Amazon speak for themselves.

In their five-star review, verified-shopper Brice commented, 'It chills drinks quickly and turns them into smooth slushies without much effort. The controls are simple, and it’s easy to clean after use. It works well for juices, sodas, and other flavored drinks. Overall, it’s a good choice if you want quick, tasty slushies without a lot of hassle.'

Fellow shopper Margaret adds, 'I use it at our church for a treat to pass out! It usually works fast, at least 25 minutes. The only problem I have had is that if you leave it too long without using it, it all gets sludgy. Best to use it up fast and start again! It would be great for parties at home, too. It’s pricey but worth it.'

With the sale now in full swing, there’s quite simply no better time to take the plunge. I know I won’t be waiting, and judging by the group chat, my friends are already lining up for their first taste as soon as it arrives.

What Else to Shop

Whether you’re planning ice cream socials this summer or simply looking for a refreshing way to cool down when temperatures climb, the Ninja SLUSHi is easily one of the most fun and crowd-pleasing appliances on the market.

To help you make the most of it, I’ve rounded up a few of my favorite additional tools and accessories to elevate your summer hosting setup.

If you are looking to host more outdoors this season, and want to elevate your summer cooking setup, consider the best pizza ovens next.to really impress your guests.

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David Beckham has collaborated with Ninja to design a chic new upgrade for one of the brand’s flagship coffee makers.

The former footballer, who has now made a name for himself as a stylish country homemaker (thanks to his green thumb and chicken-keeping skills), has launched a sleek limited-edition Luxe™ Café Pro coffee maker that's chic enough for his counters.

This premium appliance, which combines Ninja’s automated brewing technology with David's fashion-forward aesthetic, means you can now bring high-performing celebrity style straight to the heart of your home.

With so many now embracing artisan home coffee alongside aesthetic kitchen choices, these appliances now have to do more than deliver a great cup. Along with being one of the best espresso machines our in-house professional chef has ever tested, this upgrade will be a centerpiece on your countertop, rather than something you'll have to hide away in your appliance garage.

David Beckham Just Teamed Up With Ninja on a Stylish Coffee Maker

So far as the best coffee makers go, Ninja delivers every time. Having reviewed the original Luxe™ Café Pro, we found barely any faults besides it being large, and the cold brew not being ultra-cold. Otherwise, it performs quickly and quietly, delivering consistently well-extracted espresso, hands-free milk frothing, and the added convenience of a built-in grinder.

The original stainless-steel finish already felt elevated, but the David Beckham redesign takes things a step further, introducing matte black stainless steel and refined gold detailing, alongside ebony wood accents. The result is a countertop appliance that feels as much like an on-trend design object as it does a kitchen essential.

Importantly, every design decision has been made with practicality in mind, ensuring performance hasn’t been sacrificed for aesthetics. In a behind-the-scenes video released by Ninja, Beckham even pushed back on certain finishes, noting, 'I’m all about the details. My issue with that? Fingerprints.'

No fuss, no smudges, just a clean finish that looks as good as it performs.

The machine offers four functions in one: brewing full-bodied espresso, balanced drip coffee, quick cold brew, and offering an independent hot water system.

This is all alongside the hands-free milk steamer and grinder with 25 automated grind settings to take the guesswork out of making good coffee at home. It may be large, but it makes the best use of its real estate, cutting back on the number of appliances you need on your counter.

The David Beckham colorway launch is limited edition, so it won't be around forever, and I predict a sell-out soon.

What Else to Shop

Coffee stations are no longer just practical hubs for a quick morning pick-me-up – they’re increasingly becoming focal points within the kitchen.

To elevate your own coffee corner, I’ve selected six beautifully home essentials to refine both your routine and your countertop.

Even with the perfect appliances and accessories, your coffee corner may look unkempt without the perfect coffee bar organization ideas. Luckily, the experts have shared their top tips for combining pretty with practical.

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Alongside my kettle, microwave, toaster, and slow cooker, I have two air fryers, so it’s no wonder my countertops are overrun. That’s why I’m switching both of my Ninja appliances for their newer Air Fryer Toaster Oven Combo.

Not only does it allow for 12 functions in one, but the Ninja Air Fryer Toaster Oven Combo, available at Amazon, is now on sale at its lowest price ever for Amazon’s Big Spring Deals event, making this the perfect time to sort my cluttered kitchen out.

I can’t do without having my best air fryer in play daily for fast and easy meals, but since I am disabled and have chronic pain, my conventional oven is hard to use without injury. This is the perfect upgrade for freeing up space and enjoying that convection-style versatility, without compromising on convenience and performance.

This Ninja Upgrade Gives Me Back Vital Counter Space

Our tester also noted the predecessor's larger footprint (15.4" W x 15" D x 13" H), which brings 12.5 liters of cooking space. The newer model that's that’s now heavily discounted (pictured above) is 18.6"D x 16.39"W x 13.26"H. I am OK with the slightly deeper profile, as currently, having two XL capacity appliances takes up more space than that, and I need to reclaim the usable counter space in my modest kitchen.

What I Love About the Great Value Ninja Air Fryer Toast Oven Combo

Firstly, it’s multifunctional and a great size for family cooking with its DualZone technology, which I rely on in one of the models I already have. This means you can cook in each of the two compartments in different ways with entirely independent settings, without food smells combining across the two.

My Ninja Foodi XL 2-Basket Air Fryer, which we also rated 4.5/5 stars on test, has been excellent for our busy household, especially as I often cook something different for my child, or have different types of food on the go at the same time.

For example, I often make a protein, such as salmon, in one basket and fries in another. The DualZone technology in this device means no unwanted crossover of food smells, and I know it will perform just as well in my upgrade.

Why I’m Upgrading My Setup

Simply put, I need to declutter my countertops. Currently, my XL dual basket appliance does the evening meals and traditional ‘air frying’ work, whilst my Ninja Speedi does my risottos, cous cous, and mixed rices for my hot lunches. It has a very deep basket allowing large-volume cooking, but usually, the majority of that vertical space is wasted in my kitchen. It's also a nuisance as the top-opening lid hits my wall cabinet. In order to use it, I have to move it forward on my counter every time.

The newer Ninja countertop gem, available at Amazon (and now at it's lowest price ever), that I’ve had my eye on for months, however, will do all of that and more, fitting a 4.5lb roast chicken in one compartment, with trays that slide out like a traditional convection oven for ease of access, and can bake, broil, reheat, keep warm, toast, air fry, air roast and dehydrate. The door opens forward, meaning you don't have to worry about vertical space for its operation.

This will help me let go of the two sizable appliances I am currently using multiple times a day, whilst upgrading the functionality and ease of use.

One of the things I’ve honestly hated about the Speedi is that if you cook a protein on the top layer, and put your carbohydrates and vegetables in the bottom, you cannot access the bottom layer to stir or check progress without somehow wrangling the top tray off (which is obviously very hot mid-cook) and full of half-cooked protein. It doesn't have handles, so I usually use a fork and tongs to remove it, but I have often lost pieces of protein in the process.

The Ninja Air Fryer Toaster Oven Combo not only easily allows for this with its flip-open door, but the viewing windows, much like a traditional oven, make it much easier to cook your meal and monitor it exactly how you want. You can also easily make risotto, for example, by using the bake setting in one compartment, and garlic bread in the other on air fry mode.

It's felt indulgent having two of these types of appliances in my kitchen, but I can no longer give them the space, and they're becoming a daily hindrance rather than a help. And in fact, they’re just getting in my way.

That's why I’ve snapped up this deal whilst it – and stocks last – as Amazon’s spring event is running from 25-31 March, and this is the lowest price this brilliant multicooker has ever been. It also comes loaded with two sheet pans, two wire racks, one air fryer basket, a crumb tray, and a set of recipes to start your journey.

What Shoppers Say

Rated as 4.4 stars out of 5 by Amazon shoppers, customers rate its intuitive controls, good performance, and versatility, but some note it can be noisy. One Amazon shopper who purchased this appliance said that it was quieter than their old Ninja and ‘perfectly fine’.

Of the four air fryers I’ve personally had from various brands, including two from Ninja since 2020, I’ve not found one that is even half as loud as my kitchen’s extractor hood.

Verified purchaser, Tony Martin explains in their 5-star review that ‘there should be 10 stars because there are two toaster ovens.’ He goes on to explain that making pizza in it is ‘like magic’ with bubbling cheese and crisp crusts in no time at all, and notes that ‘the reviews don’t do it justice.’

What to Shop

As an air fryer aficionado with six years of daily use behind me, I have curated a selection of brilliant kitchen essentials to help you make the most of your non-toxic air fryer and make meal times even easier.

Avoid air fryer mistakes to make yours last its true lifetime, and be mindful that leaving grease to accumulate in the appliance will raise the risk of a fire. Cleaning your air fryer needn't be arduous with our expert tips.

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It's never too early to start thinking about summer, and ice cream treats are a key part of the fun. If you kept trying to get your hands on the ever-popular Ninja CREAMi last year and missed the boat, now is the time.

This product often sells out and is rarely discounted, but it is currently $50 off in the Amazon Big Spring Sale, so I'm snapping one up before it sells out.

The Ninja CREAMi Scoop & Swirl, available on Amazon, is one of the best ice cream makers money can buy – I can't see stock sticking around for long at this price, so act fast to secure this popular small kitchen appliance.

Why The Ninja CREAMi Scoop & Swirl Is The Perfect Kitchen Upgrade Year-Round

Of course, sweet iced treats are one of the easiest ways to keep cool during summer hosting and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, but add an artisanal homemade touch, and you have a surefire standout, especially when served in charmingstoneware ice cream bowls from Anthropologie.

The machine needs to be prepared 24 hours ahead, which, for my short patience, is teasing at best, but once it's set up, it is easy to use and offers soft serve and scoopable pints all from the comfort of your own kitchen.

Reviewed for us by Kate Schofield, they reported, 'If you're just looking for the headlines, the soft serve function on the Ninja Swirl is magnificent. From start to finish (not counting the overnight freeze, of course), the whole process took about six minutes.'

My favorite feature is the mix-in function, which lets you churn a tub in any flavor you can imagine, then customize it with whatever additions you like, whether that’s Reese’s Pieces or fresh apple and cinnamon.

With 13 functions to choose from, including milkshakes, sorbet, frozen custard, yogurt, and gelato, it’s hard to imagine ever getting bored.

The Ninja CREAMi isn’t just for summer, either. Whether you're hosting a cozy fall gathering or an Easter dinner, you can’t go wrong with a scoop of an organic homemade ice cream recipe to finish the meal.

Whether it's a serving of freshly made cinnamon ice cream alongside a warm apple cobbler, or something bright and lemony after a spring feast, I can’t think of a better way to round off a menu in any season, which makes the investment all the sweeter.

As a gym rat, the option to make lite ice cream, or even protein desserts, is also an instant hit in my household, helping me to stay on track with my summer fitness goals while indulging with my friends.

There's really not much it can't do, which makes its bulky size a little easier to justify, even in my tiny kitchen, and especially while it is on sale at Amazon for $299.99.

What to Shop

Creating everything in-house is one of my favorite parts of hosting, and fresh, delicious soft serve is a rare treat that’s guaranteed to impress guests.

If you’re planning to host your own ice cream socials this summer, or want to elevate your from-scratch menus year-round, these six essential accessories are well worth considering.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Enamored with the idea of outdoor hosting this summer? I also have my eye on Gozney’s latest Arc Lite pizza oven, and it might just be the upgrade your backyard gatherings have been waiting for, too.

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I took a punt on a great deal last summer and bought the Ninja Speedi multicooker at a big discount. It was an absolute steal, and I have used it every day since to steam, air fry, and everything in between for easy, fast, lazy lunches whilst working from home.

My model has been discontinued, but I’ve spotted that its upgraded successor, the Ninja Combi with front-opening door and independent trays, is on offer with $50 off at Walmart, so I’m snapping it up.

I love the front-opening functionality on the new one, as the top-opening on my Speedi has been a bugbear in my compact kitchen, as I have to move it forward on my counter to clear the cabinets above when it is in use.

Our in-house chef thoroughly tested the Combi last year and gave it 4.5/5 stars, so I have no doubt it’s one of the best non-toxic air fryers and will be a worthy upgrade in my compact kitchen, which relies on multiple small appliances to get dinner on the table.

This Ninja Upgrade Is Great for Lazy but Nutritious Lunches

The steam function on my Speedi been a game-changer in my household, and the front-opening door of its successor is the only reason I’m upgrading mine to the Combi. Whilst the footprint of the Combi isn't the smallest, the fact that it does so many things and opens forward rather than upwards makes it a wise choice if you're tight on space.

In my small kitchen, the Speedi, which opens upwards from right to left, has to be moved each time I cook so the lid clears the cabinets above. The newer Ninja Combi, currently on offer at Walmart, opens at the front like a conventional oven, allowing easier access, no matter the cabinets above it.

I have been using mine daily to steam cook risotto, cous cous, pasta with vegetables and proteins in one go, and it’s been a total game-changer for me as a disabled working mom.

I cannot be on my feet for more than a couple of minutes with injury and pain because of a genetic connective tissue disorder, which means for years, simple tasks like making meals on the cooker have been off the menu. I simply cannot stand long enough to keep stirring and cooking items that way.

With my Ninja Speedi Rapid Cooker, however, that limitation was resolved. Ever since buying mine, when on a lunch break while working at home, I put a cup of cous cous, some water, a stock cube, and frozen vegetables in the non-toxic ceramic pan, and hit 'steam' on the Rapid Cooker setting for about seven minutes. It's the laziest yet nutritious hot meal, especially as I top it with store-bought cooked protein, seeds, and salad toppers.

It’s glorious to be able to access this kind of food again. I just put the ingredients in, hit the right setting, and go and put my feet up while my Ninja makes perfectly textured, cooked-through, ready-to-eat home-made hot lunches.

Why I’m Upgrading to the Combi Now

There are three reasons. First, the door issue, as detailed earlier. The second is that the Ninja Combi is on offer with $50 off at Target right now, making it a more affordable swap. It’s a good investment in my home as our two brilliant Ninja air fryers are in use twice a day, every day, for lunches, dinners, and just about every task to do with cooking food easily, quickly, and with next-to-zero oil.

The third is that my current multicooker is top loading, meaning if I want to check on the items in the deep tray, or give it a mix in rapid cooker mode, I have to lift the air fry crisper layer from the top, and it’s fiddly, not easy to do and often results in something that’s supposed to crisp up falling into the liquid below.

The newer Combi, which our chef tested last year and loved, rating it a 4.5/5, however, is front-loading, with two cooking levels that can be accessed independently. It’s a total win for me on pesky design problems I have been working around since getting the predecessor.

The newer model still has the same ceramic-coated baskets, so I know my family is safe from microplastics or other toxic chemicals leaching into our food during cooking.

The one thing I learned the hard way with my Steami is that the ceramic coating can still be scratched if you make the air fryer mistake, as I did, of using any sort of metal utensil to stir or remove food. I’ll admit I had a brain-splat for a second, and thought the ceramic was all the way through like my trusty Crock-Pot, rather than a coating, and of course, it scratched.

I won’t be doing that again on my new one and have since invested in a set of teak cooking utensils from Amazon.

What to Shop

My small countertop appliances and the accessories I use with them make meal times easy, fast, non-toxic to my family, and keep me off my feet for as long as possible.

They're brilliantly useful for all households that make use of the best slow cookers, best air fryers, and enjoy batch cooking or meal prepping for easier meals.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Switching to silicone food storage can help you be more sustainable at home, as well as reduce your household's contact with potentially harmful microplastics and chemicals.

If you've got hot cocoa and mulled cider on your mind this holiday season, I don't blame you – but let me tell you why should be thinking about ice cream, too. While summer might feel rather far away, there's never a bad time to invest in one of the best ice cream makers; and since the viral Ninja Creami Deluxe is 20% off right now, it's the perfect moment to add it your kitchen setup.

That is, of course, if you haven't already been won over by the glowing reviews of the Ninja Creami Deluxe. Our tester declared that it's 'an investment you won't regret', particularly if you're keen to try out even more dessert options that stand ice cream makers just don't offer. Although it's worth mentioning that the original Ninja Creami 7-in-1 ice cream maker is also currently discounted.

Whether I'm treating myself to an afternoon pick-me-up or succumbing to a late night sugar craving, I'll usually end up at my local ice cream parlor – which is why appliances like the Ninja Creami Deluxe are so revolutionary. You can create your very own desserts and milkshakes from the comfort of your kitchen, and you can even prep breakfast smoothies and frozen yogurt.

Yet what I love about the Creami Deluxe isn't just its versatility, but its impressive capacity. While the original Ninja Creami ice cream maker features 16oz tubs, the Creami Deluxe uses XL tubs which can hold 24oz – meaning you'll be more than ready to serve a crowd, or batch-prep your treats for the week.

'My three tubs covered dessert for seven people, three nights in a row, so there's more than enough capacity for a big family,' our tester noted in her Creami Deluxe review.

I'll admit that I was initially apprehensive about the prep time required by the Creami models: they require 24 hours to freeze each tub before you can churn and serve the contents, so you'll need to work ahead. It didn't take long, however, for me to fall head over heels for the Ninja Creami Deluxe; I simply can't argue with anything that can create delicious, totally customizable desserts.

Plus, the Creami is a beautiful piece of kit. It might take up a significant amount of countertop real estate, but it looks undeniably stylish, and I'm thrilled that the silver Creami Deluxe and the pastel pink and green colorway are both discounted right now.

So, if you don't currently feel tempted by the idea of frozen treats in December, I have a feeling that the Ninja Creami Deluxe will change your mind. And your future self will certainly be grateful when those sweltering summer days return.

Shop More Ninja Deals

The Ninja Creami might look the part, but is it practical? Experts say the maintenance couldn't be simpler – and they told us exactly how to clean a Ninja Creami to keep it looking brand new.

Last weekend, I went to a holiday party where the host served softly frozen, luxuriously creamy espresso martinis. True to style as a Kitchen Appliances Editor, I immediately started questioning the process.

The host gestured casually towards the kitchen and revealed the Ninja Slushi, now $269.99 at SharkNinja.

I assumed this perfect frozen drink had come from one of the best blenders, like a Vitamix, but I hadn't heard any loud grinding and crushing of ice. No cocktail shakers, enormous ice buckets, or a stressed-out host darting back and forth. The Ninja Slushi was sitting on the counter, quietly churning out glass after glass of perfectly textured cocktails, each one as good as the last.

What sets the Ninja Slushi apart from bog-standard slushie makers – and why it earns a place among the best Ninja products and even threatens the products in my best ice cream maker guide – is how precisely it controls temperature and texture.

Using RapidChill technology (you don't need to fuss around with ice trays), the Ninja Slushi can chill your drink to any frozen state, whether you want a thick scoopable dessert or a softly frosted cocktail.

The frappé martini I tried was just delicious. The flavor stayed rich, with none of the watery, ice dilution that can plague a dodgy blender recipe. I assume the coffee was made with one of the best espresso makers, too. I had no notes (although I would be keen to try it with a swirl of whipped cream and chocolate shavings; that would be a welcome edition to my Christmas Day menu).

From a hosting perspective, the Ninja Slushi is a great home bar idea, as it does the hard work (quietly) in the background, allowing the host to remain present. It's an effortless way to host a cocktail party. Drinks are poured rather than performed – but they are still exciting and fun.

The scope for recipe ideas is endless. On the Ninja Instagram page, there's a gorgeous frozen cocoa recipe, spiked with Bailey's Irish Cream and served in glass mason mugs, like these from Amazon.

Of course, when the weather warms up, the Ninja Slushi will come into its own summer cocktail recipes, like frozen margaritas or frozen rosé

Festive Frozen Drink Essentials

These hardworking cocktail gadgets and gizmos create effortless holiday drinks, so you can focus on handing out platters of canapes.

If you're someone who likes fun frozen drinks, hosting cocktail hour, or experimenting in the kitchen, I think the Ninja Slushi is worth the investment. Otherwise, you may want to stick to a simple cocktail shaker - a more classic, luxe cocktail essential – and save the dollars.

As a trained chef, I'm a harsh critic when it comes to coffee. I'm obsessive with flavor and texture – and my partner trained as a barista, so our combined standards are impossibly high.

With my days in the professional kitchen behind me, I now make a living by testing kitchen appliances, including the best coffee makers. I’ve tested everything from quiet KitchenAids and automatic De’Longhis to swish drip coffee makers and chic Bialettis. It's rare for me to get very excited by a product anymore, but the Ninja Luxe Café Pro Espresso Maker, discounted by $150 at SharkNinja, changed that. It's the only coffee maker I want in my home.

From cold brew to flat whites, lattes to espresso martinis, it makes the best caffeine I’ve ever brewed at home. All that to say, it's the only one making my Christmas list this year, and once you read my full review below, you'll see exactly why.

Specifications

First Impressions

I know when an appliance is actually luxe, because it makes me immediately want to rip out my dated kitchen and upgrade it with polished countertops and backsplashes to match.

The Ninja Luxe Café Pro Espresso Maker is ultra-professional and high-tech. It's like the Ferrari of coffee machines; mechanical and functional, but with enticing lit-up buttons and dials that get you excited to take it for a test drive. Each part is satisfyingly robust and enjoyable to use, from the vacuum-sealed bean compartment that slots satisfyingly into place to the weighted dials that you twist to select your brew.

The only criticism I made in my notes is that the Ninja Luxe Café Pro is quite large and heavy. I struggled to lift it onto my counter, and once it was situated, I didn't want to move it again.

What's it Like to Use?

At first, I was a little perplexed by all the whizzy dials and options on the Ninja Luxe Café Pro Espresso Maker. But after a few minutes watching SharkNinja’s tutorial videos –and a quick play with the interface – it all clicked. By the end of my first week of testing, I could run it in my sleep.

You start by filling the water tank at the back. I actually take a shortcut by filling the milk-frothing pitcher with water and tipping it straight in – a bit easier than wrestling with the tank itself. Then, load the bean hopper with your coffee of choice (I’m loyal to Illy's Arabica Selections Brasile WholeBeans, available at Amazon).

Choose your shot size – I stick to a single, because a double has me bouncing off the walls – then pop the filter basket into the portafilter. Slot it into the grinder on the left, and the machine will predict the best grind size for your beans. It takes a couple of rounds to dial in, but I’ve learned that size 14 is the sweet spot for my Illy blend. There’s also a built-in scale that measures out the correct amount of coffee grounds.

From here, it’s seamless. Hit Grind, tamp using the built-in lever, then lock the portafilter into the brew head. Pick your drink – espresso, americano, ristretto, cold brew, and the list goes on – and voilà. The Ninja Luxe pours a perfectly balanced shot straight into your cup.

For a latte or flat white, you'll want to use the milk frother. With other machines I've tested, you need to manually steam the milk, getting your angles and timing right to create the perfect texture.

The Ninja Pro Luxe has an automatic steaming function, so you can sit back and relax. There are also multiple preset textures to choose from: Steamed Milk, Thin Foam, Thick Foam, Extra-Thick Foam, and Cold Foam.

Taste Test

When I say you have options with the Ninja Luxe Café Pro, I mean it. When I first got the machine into my kitchen, I didn't even realize there was a whole range of filter settings. You can choose between Classic, Rich, or Over Ice, and the drink sizes range from 175ml to 530ml.

For me, where the Ninja truly shines is in the espresso itself. The shot is rich, full-bodied, bold, smooth, and always at the perfect temperature.

The espresso serves as the perfect base for a variety of your favorite café-style drinks. I experimented with lattes, flat whites, and cappuccinos, following the clever milk measurements and recipe card attached to the side of the machine. Each drink turned out consistently smooth, with the espresso flavor shining through beautifully. Honestly, I’ve stopped visiting my local café – because I can make even better coffee at home.

But that’s not all – the Ninja Luxe Café Pro can also make cold brew. The process was impressively quick, though my first batch came out just slightly warm, enough to melt the ice cubes in my iced coffee glass. Undeterred, I tried something a little more adventurous: espresso martinis (strictly off the clock!). They turned out beautifully, and I even served them to dinner party guests, who raved about the balance and flavor. (Apologies for the lack of photos – I was swept up in the hosting whirlwind!)

Cleaning, Storage & Maintenance

My biggest peeve when testing the best espresso machines is always the clean-up. For a while, I switched to using an Aeropress Original (from Walmart) at home because I was sick of cleaning appliances at work – the simple tube on the Aeropress just needs a rinse in the sink.

Thankfully, while testing the Ninja Luxe Café Pro, clean-up was effortless – so much so that I’d happily keep it in my kitchen permanently. A quick wipe of the steam wand after use is all it takes – no dismantling parts, no struggling with a straw cleaner, no fuss. The machine even has an auto-purge setting that prevents milk build-up and residue, keeping it ready for your next brew.

The only other regular maintenance is the drip tray. It can get a bit grubby, but the trays slide out easily and can be fully disassembled for a thorough clean. I’d also recommend draining it after each use – you’d be surprised how fast the water collects. Keep an eye on the rising orange buoy in the tray; it’s your not-so-subtle warning that a mini 'tsunami' might be brewing!

How Does it Compare?

For coffee lovers who enjoy a more hands-on experience, the best espresso machines from the likes of Breville and De’Longhi will offer greater control. With their traditional portafilters, steam wands, and temperature-controlled boilers, you can fine-tune your grind, tamp, and milk texture, which is satisfying if you know how or are happy to clamber up that steep learning curve (practice makes perfect).

What sets the Ninja Luxe Café Pro apart for me is that it bridges technicality with ease. You still engage in the process – grinding beans, tamping, frothing milk– but without the risk of a bad shot every time. It's really fun and gives you the sense of craft without the potential angst of a fully manual machine.

And compared with other automated machines, I found the Ninja less fiddly and more affordable (well under $1,000). I’ve tested some of the most luxurious machines on the market (like the Jura J8, for example), but the Ninja remains my go-to for its ease and price.

Should You Buy It?

In my opinion, this is a coffee maker that’s truly worth its salt. For the price, you get an impressive amount of fun and functionality. The only people I wouldn’t recommend this to are baristas who want complete hands-on control, or those who are very tech-averse – if mindful, simple brewing is your goal, one of the best Moka pots will suit you better, but you'll obviously sacrifice versatility.

For café-goers looking to save money on takeout and recreate that barista taste at home, you really can’t go wrong. The Ninja Luxe grinds fresh beans, automatically adjusts grind size, and pulls professional-level shots for dreamy lattes, rich Americanos, and so much more. I loved testing this intelligent, highly automated machine – and I’ll be genuinely gutted to send it back to Ninja. Goodbye, espresso martinis!

How We Test Espresso Makers

At Homes & Gardens, we’ve developed a barista-approved process for testing the best coffee makers.

Our tests are standardized across each machine, so we can compare all of the products against each other without bias. If we think a machine is good enough, it’ll go onto our best espresso machine, best French press, or our highly acclaimed best non-toxic coffee maker list.

If you're keen to see behind the scenes, you can read our dedicated page: how we test coffee makers.

It seems like all the major air fryer brands are bringing out 'pro' versions of their most highly-rated models. The original Ninja Crispi was crowned one of the best non-toxic air fryers in our guide; we loved the simplicity and portability. The newest upgrade, dubbed the Ninja Crispi Pro, is a full-size air fryer featuring two extra cooking functions, a larger bowl, and precise temperature control.

I’ve been reviewing air fryers in my NYC apartment since they first hit the market nearly 15 years ago. I recently tested Our Place's Wonder Oven Pro, but the Crispi was my first foray into glass.

I used the Ninja Crispi Pro as my primary air fryer for a week to figure out whether it's worth a place in your kitchen. And though I was impressed with its range of functions, simple controls, and superior air frying, its size makes it harder to tuck away if you are working on a crowded countertop. If you have the space, however, this is an excellent and healthier alternative to those bulkier plastic appliances.

Specifications

Design & First Impressions

The Ninja Crispi Pro 6-in-1 Countertop Glass Air Fryer is larger than the original Ninja Crispi, and it comes with a bunch of parts – a 1800-watt cooking unit, an adjustable base, a 6-quart and a 2.5-quart glass container, two non-stick crisper plates, and two storage lids. I was disappointed that for such a premium price, you have to buy the 4-quart glass container separately if you want the medium size.

One caveat: the surface space of both containers is the same, meaning the larger size simply has more vertical space. For instance, you won’t fit more French fries in the 6-quart bowl, but you can fit a whole chicken.

Ninja says, 'All food-contact surfaces are designed without PFAS and PTFE, are dishwasher safe, and resist thermal shock' – which is a major plus in my book.

The idea is to leave the Ninja Crispi Pro on your counter and slide the containers onto the long, metal, adjustable base, which clicks into one of three slots in the unit (6-quart at the bottom and 2.5-quart at the top). Though I’ve gotten better at this over the week, I still haven’t mastered it. I hope that this becomes more intuitive as I use it.

Once the container was secured, however, I was thrilled with the intelligent controls. Just press the power button, use the knob to toggle to one of the 6 functions, then adjust the time and temperature to your precise needs. You can also modify the temperature while it's cooking, which I found wildly helpful.

Cooking Performance

Test 1: French Fries

The French fry test is always my favorite, and I like to time it around when my boys get home from school. Not only do I get a helpful third-party review, but I put less fried food in my own mouth.

I used the 6-quart bowl for the fries, spread them at the bottom, and clicked to air fry at 400 degrees Fahrenheit. It took about 12 minutes to get a golden brown. I did shake them halfway through, which meant I had to pull the container completely off the base. Which also meant I had to futz around with the machine to get it back on correctly.

But unlike my multifunction air fryer toaster ovens, I got gorgeous fries on the first try that were hot and crunchy on the outside, and fluffy on the inside. Both adult and teen approved.

The one disappointment was that the Ninja Crispi Pro container yielded a lot less than the spacious racks on the Wonder Oven Pro I had been simultaneously testing. So, you may have to do a few batches if you’re cooking for a large family.

Test 2: Chicken

I started with plain chicken fingers, which I sprinkled with a homemade curry spice mix, then spritzed lightly with avocado oil spray from La Tourangelle at Amazon. I put them in the Ninja Crispi Pro's 6-quart container and cooked them for 20 minutes on air-fry mode at 400 degrees Fahrenheit.

I got all 1.5 pounds of the chicken in at once, and although I was worried it may not cook as evenly in the crowded bowl, it came out perfectly.

Next, I used a traditional egg wash and bread crumbs. Again, I lined the bottom of the 6-quart container with the chicken fingers and started the Crispi Pro at 375 degrees Fahrenheight. About 10 minutes in, I slid the bowl out, turned the chicken, and fumbled it back onto the base. Because I worry about the crust burning before the chicken is cooked, I turned the temperature down to 350 for another 10 minutes. This was the perfect combination, and everyone was thrilled with the results. Perfectly juicy inside, crisp outside.

Lastly, I decided to throw some turkey bacon in the smaller container and cooked it at 375 on bake. The Ninja Crispi Pro did a solid job of crisping these slices up, yet not overcooking them. And it was nice and quick, about 8 minutes, though the convection fan did physically blow the slices around a bit. I did the same with bacon, which ended up offering a less greasy option to pan-fried.

Test 3: Vegetables

Finally, I decided to air fry a seasonal gourd. Trader Joe’s has handy packages of zigzag cut butternut squash that need no prep work.

I dressed the bright orange veg in salt and avocado oil and spread them at the bottom of the container. Then, I cooked them at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 20 minutes, taking them out and shaking them at least three times. The squash cooked nicely, but try as I did, they never got crispy. Certainly a tasty side dish, but not a crunchy one.

Test 4: Toast

As mentioned, both sized containers have the same amount of surface space, which is fine for one or two people, but not great for larger families or households. And that goes for toast as well. I could fit two pieces in both the small and large bowls, and I had to cook the bread twice, once on each side, to get them properly toasted.

What is it Like to Use?

Set-up and functions are both easy right out of the box, though it took a while to get used to sliding the different containers on and off the base. I was also worried that I’d need oven gloves every time I had to shake or turn my food, but the handles never got too hot.

Cleaning, Maintenance & Storage

Ninja makes it easy on us when it comes to cleaning all the components, and the glass containers, lids and crisper plates are all dishwasher safe (thank goodness). The modular base, however, needs to be hand-washed and dried thoroughly before use. I saw no reason to clean it during my testing period, but good to know just in case.

And then there’s the storage. Because of its height, (just under a foot), I could not easily squeeze it into my pantry. Additionally, you’ll need a place for both bowls and their lids. However, if you have a big enough kitchen, you should be able to stash all Ninja Crispi Pro components out of sight.

How Does it Compare?

I especially liked pulling out the original Ninja Crispi for air frying when my main oven was full. The air fryer hood and all accoutrements fit into my cramped cabinets and were manageable to move around.

However, the larger Ninja Crispi Pro was a little large for my apartment-sized cabinets. And I wouldn't forgo the rest of my appliances for it, given that it didn’t plug all the holes I needed for everyday cooking (like toasting and grilling, for example).

Should You Buy It?

The Ninja Crispi Pro is a is certainly one of the best Ninja air fryers. The glass containers do an excellent job of air frying and recrisping food, serving up perfectly cooked French fries and chicken fingers, though the butternut squash fries fell a little flat. I also appreciated its baking and roasting chops as I put it through its paces with staples like meatballs, Brussels sprouts and bacon.

Yet, because neither of the bowls could hold as much food as my toaster oven air fryer (it's the Midea Flexify, if you're interested), it was harder for me to feed a family of four in a single batch.

In the end, this is well worth it as a compromise between a larger oven and a stand-alone air fryer, and we especially appreciate its non-toxic glassware.

How We Test Air Fryers

Our team is made up of expert cooks, home economists, and experienced reviewers. If you're interested in what happens in the test kitchen, you'll find all the details on the 'how we test air fryers' page.

To give you the bullet points, we focus on exceptional cooking performance by air-frying frozen French fries, chicken, and roasted vegetables. During our taste tests, we seek food that’s perfectly crispy on the outside and tender within.

Ease of use is the best part of air frying, so our tests also evaluate the intuitiveness of the controls, basket design, instruction booklet, and the accuracy of recipe presets. We also make sure to explore any special features, like grilling and dehydrating, the capacity, cleaning, and durability.

Finally, when you're making a kitchen investment, price really matters, so we weigh up the air fryer's features and performance to see if it offers good value for money. Ultimately, our goal is to ensure you choose an air fryer that looks stylish in your kitchen, as well as being reliable, efficient, and a joy to use.

So, you’ve been biding your time to buy the world's most popular ice cream maker, waiting to see if an unmissable Cyber Monday deal pops up. You’re in luck. I'm a trained chef who is obsessed with my Creami, and I’ve been tracking the best Ninja Creami deals for days.

My team of product testers has trialed every version of the Creami in our quest to find the best ice cream maker, so I know the pros and cons of each model and price.

On Black Friday, I was confident that the best Ninja Creami deal was this Ninja Creami 7-in-1 bundle at QVC with a bunch of extra containers. But today, the price has shot up by $20, and it's not looking quite as appetizing any more. However, there's a new hot deal in town: Ninja's beautiful Limited Edition 7-in-1 Creami in Coffee Cream is back in stock and cheaper than it was before Black Friday, at $179.99 with four pints included as a free gift today.

You'll find everything you need to know about the best Ninja Creami deals when you scroll down. The sales will end tonight, so whether you're going for soft swirls or scoopable classics, this is the last chance saloon.

Best Ninja Creami Cyber Monday Deal

More Ninja Creami Deals Worth Considering

If you've already been scrolling for the best Cyber Monday Ninja Creami deals, you might have noticed that retailers take different approaches to Ninja Creami pricing.

Some retailers are inflating the original price to make discounts look bigger (I'm looking at you, Macy's – the RRP on the Ninja Creami Deluxe is $250, not $300).

And with five iterations of the product on the market, it can be tricky to figure out which Ninja Creami deal offers the biggest bang for your buck. I've got you covered with the comparisons below, which outline extra features that may be worth it to you, or prices that may be more palatable for ice cream purists.

Which Ninja Creami Model Should You buy?

The answer depends on the kind of recipes you want to make, how much design matters to you, and how much you want to spend. Our team has tested them all and I personally own the Ninja Creami Deluxe (I tested it on Em the Nutritionist's healthy ice cream recipes), but that might not be the right fit for you.

Ninja Creami 7-in-1

If you want a solid balance of price and features, I think the Ninja Creami 7-in-1 is a great buy. In total, it offers seven features, including ice cream, lite ice cream, milkshakes, mix-in, sorbet, gelato, and smoothie bowl. It's not fancy-looking, but it's reliable and excellent at what it does. The promise of açai bowls could be a dealbreaker for healthy eaters.

Ninja Creami Deluxe

The Ninja Creami Deluxe builds on the original with five additional programs: frozen yogurt, Creamiccino, frozen drink, slushi, and Italian ice (and it does away with the smoothie bowl feature).

If you enjoy a frozen drink, the Deluxe has you covered across the board. It also boasts a 24 oz container, which is 50% bigger than the original 16-ounce. It can also process half a container at a time if you want a half-and-half ice cream or don't think you'll use a whole tub. Ninja also offers a range of fun colorways on this SKU.

If you like the sound of the extra features and more modern design, the Deluxe is worth the spend.

Ninja Creami Scoop & Swirl

If you love soft-serve, you'll need the Ninja Swirl by Creami. Our tester, Kate, loved the super light, creamy, and picture-perfect results. We think it's great for families with young kids, or those who are frequent entertainers looking for show-stopping desserts.

However, if you're not fussy about your ice cream aesthetics and can forgo the cone, the original or the Ninja Creami Deluxe will save you money.

How Can You Tell You've Found a Good Ninja Creami Deal?

Compare the deal price to the RRP: For example, the Creami Deluxe (11‑in‑1) shouldn’t normally surpass its recommended retail price, which is around $250. If you see it listed for more, that’s not a deal; it’s just inflated pricing.

Check historical pricing: I use sites like CamelCamelCamel or Honey to see the price history on Amazon and other retailers. This helps you know if the Ninja Creami deal is real or just a temporary mark-up shuffle.

Look at bundle deals carefully: Many retailers, like QVC, for example, bundle the machine with accessories, so be sure you’re comparing the total value. Sometimes a deal with a higher price actually offers more in extras, which can be worth it if you’ll use them. Ninja is even offering a Creami Deluxe bundle with a waffle maker, which could be worth it if that's your favorite sweet treat.

Consider your needs vs features: Don’t pay for extra programs or the largest tubs if you only want simple, single-serving scoops. The best deal is the one that gives you the features you actually need for the lowest price.

I'll be watching the prices like a hawk as Cyber Monday unfolds, in case any of the Ninja Creami deals in this guide go out of stock. Our Home Tech editor, Dan Fauzi, is also tracking all the best Cyber Monday Home Deals, if you're keen to continue finding the biggest deals of the day without scrolling.

I have cupboards full of ice cream makers, glass air fryers, and blenders from America’s hottest kitchenware brand, Ninja, so I’m not sure why I’ve ignored their cookware line for so long.

I suppose it is because I'm a bit of a cookware snob. As a trained cook and product tester, I've spent the past two years hunting for the best non-toxic cookware. Sleek, aesthetic brands like Caraway and Our Place caught my eye on the ceramic-pan scene (and it’s not just me – they’ve gone viral), while pro-level searers from HexClad and cast-iron classics by Le Creuset always demand my attention.

Ninja may not tick the heritage or 'chic' boxes, but it does offer affordable ceramic cookware that consistently earns rave reviews online. The 10-piece set is currently just $149.99 at Walmart, so I decided to ask the brand to send over a few pans so I could put them to the test and share my honest review ahead of the busy hosting season.

Ninja Ceramic Cookware: Specifications

Design

First off, I was pleasantly surprised by the design of the Ninja Ceramic Cookware Set. It felt different from best non-stick fry pans I have tested, with a moody navy-blue exterior, cream ceramic surfaces, brushed stainless steel handles, and glass lids with steel holders. The matching set looked sleek on my induction hob and I'd be happy for guests to see them.

I was testing the trio alongside a very professional-looking Caraway stainless-steel sauté pan – which costs more than the entire Ninja set – and, surprisingly, they looked quite nice on the stove together. Ninja didn’t look cheap at all, which was my main worry.

Cooking performance

The beauty of ceramic cookware is that it’s naturally non-stick, which is perfect for tricky ingredients like eggs, tofu, halloumi, or sticky sauces.

Annoyingly, Ninja sent me a set that didn’t include a frying pan – I received the saucepan trio – so I couldn't try out pan-fried dishes, like gyozas or omelets. Instead, I decided to test out some delicate side-dishes I'm planning for Thanksgiving and some everyday recipes, too.

First, I sautéed carrot ribbons in olive oil and lemon zest. I noticed that the pan took a couple of minutes to heat up, which I wasn't expecting, since the materials are quite thin. I was eager to see if the carrot would burn or stick, but the delicate peel slid around the pan effortlessly and caught a nice golden color. The result was lightly cooked, vibrant, and exactly what I was hoping for (despite it taking longer than expected).

I also tried garlic green beans, which turned out just as well; they quickly turned crispy brown and tender, without the need for great pools of oil or butter, or cooking on a high heat for too long. I liked using the glass lid at the end for a steam finish, while keeping an eye on their color.

Over the week of testing, I also experimented with mixed vegetable egg-fried rice (no sticky mess at the bottom, and it cleaned up easily), stewed caramel apples (my current obsession), and scrambled eggs – all of which turned out beautifully. I also successfully reheated leftovers without experiencing sticking or burning. The only real snag I encountered was the heating times.

Cleaning & Maintenance

The Ninja Ceramic Cookware is technically dishwasher-safe, but the brand recommends washing by hand. It takes less than a minute with warm, soapy water, and I always use these soft, non-scratch sponges from Amazon to avoid scratching the non-stick surface.

That’s an important point with ceramic cookware – it’s still delicate. Ninja's care booklet (see the picture below) says metal utensils are fine, but honestly, I’d steer clear of them. Even though Ninja calls this their 'Extended Life' cookware, which can last up to five years, it doesn’t feel especially hardy to me, so I’d handle it with care to get the best results. I recommend silicone instead, and recently discovered the Supoon kitchen tool, which is so versatile and won't scratch your cookware.

You also need to use pan protectors like these from Walmart or a kitchen towel between each piece when stacking in the cupboard; otherwise, the coating could chip.

Finally, remember not to leave ceramic pans on high heat – you can turn up the flames to boil water or to quickly sear for a couple of minutes, but nothing more than that. If you specifically want a pan for high temperatures, look at the stainless steel and cast iron options in my guide to the best non-toxic cookware, instead.

How does it compare?

I’ve also tested Caraway’s ceramic cookware, as well as Our Place and GreenPan’s, and I think Ninja is a strong contender. In all honesty, the other brands are nice, with chic designs, but when it comes to performance, there's not much between them. Ninja holds its own – and at a better price point.

The best ceramic cookware I've ever tested is still the Made In CeramiClad Pan. I think that’s the only option worth spending extra bucks on; the stainless-steel bottom gives you great control, and the surface feels more robust than any other competitor I’ve tried.

That said, there’s not a single pure ceramic pan I’ve tested that’s great for high-heat searing or safe with metal utensils. For those tasks, you need a hybrid option, like a HexClad Fry Pan – which can handle the heat and deliver non-stick performance, all in one.

Our verdict: Should you buy it?

For a non-toxic, budget-friendly everyday set, Ninja Ceramic Cookware is hard to beat. It looks sleek and works like a dream for sautéed vegetables, scrambled eggs, or anything that tends to cling. Just use medium heat, clean gently, and avoid metal utensils to keep that slippery surface intact. And it won't sear well, so serious cooks will want to keep a HexClad or stainless-steel pan in their arsenal for proper searing.

Which Ninja Air Fryer Should You Buy?

Anyone who has spent time researching the best air fryers, will know Ninja is among the most popular brands. They have led the pack when it comes to innovation, being one of the first to launch dual-zone options and offering everything from compact models for small spaces, to extra-large fryers for big families.

I have tested countless air fryers, many of which are Ninja, and it is the only brand I keep in my own kitchen. If you are new to Ninja air fryers though, these are the three you need to know about.

Which Ninja Blender Should You Buy?

Blenders are what Ninja first became known for. Their range has always focused on packing lots of function into an affordable pricepoint, and they have something for everyone. Most of them have multiple blades to cut through your ingredients quicker and more thoroughly than other blenders. Then, when you're finished blending, most of the components are dishwasher-safe, to make cleaning up as easy as possible. If you enjoy a daily smoothie, or want a super-powerful blender-food-processor combo to prep your ingredients, see what we recommend from our rigorous testing.

Ninja Frozen Treat Makers

Ninja launched its first frozen treat maker – an ice cream maker – in 2021, and when it went viral a couple of years later, the brand developed more machines for making slushies and soft serve at home. They now come in a number of models and colorways. See our top picks from the range below.

More Ninja Bestsellers

Ninja Reviews, Deals & News

Those are our all-time favorites from Ninja, but just a fraction of what they do. Scroll on to see more of our Ninja reviews, and keep an eye out for deals.

If you've ever wished your air fryer was bigger – or that it didn’t involve so much black plastic – I have good and bad news. The sleek, spacious Ninja CRISPi® PRO Glass Air Fryer launched today, but it's selling out quickly.

A sure-fire contender for our guide to the best non-toxic air fryers, the new Crispi Pro is smarter and larger than the original Ninja Crispi, which we reviewed and loved last year.

The 6QT XL glass container is large enough to roast a whole 8lb chicken with vegetables for 10 guests, all while doubling up as a dish for prepping, cooking, serving, and storing.

If you're a health-conscious cook, Ninja's CleanCrisp™ glass container will be music to your ears. They are safe, BPA-free, dishwasher-safe, leak-resistant, and designed to work just as beautifully for storing leftovers as for roasting a weeknight dinner.

I was also excited to see that the new Ninja Crispi Pro has six functions, like the very best air fryers on the market, including Air Fry, Bake, Roast, Dehydrate, Max Crisp, and Re-Crisp. Whether you're reheating yesterday's tofu for lunch, baking treats in a silicone muffin tray, or air frying side dishes for a comforting fall menu, there's a function that's up to the task.

If you crave something smaller for a quick solo meal, the system also supports Ninja’s 2.5QT and 4QT glass containers, available at Amazon, so the cooking is extra speedy and you never have to use more than you need.

If you're wondering 'Which Ninja air fryer is best?', I think the new Ninja Crispi Pro combines the best features of all the previous options and goes the extra mile to become one of the best non-toxic kitchen appliances, too.

The Ninja CRISPi® PRO Glass Air Fryer launches today (October 15) for $279.99. We'll be testing it as soon as possible to report back with a full review.

In the meantime, if the Ninja launch news has got you craving crispy air-fried food, I've written some easy air fryer recipes to get you inspired.

Few brands innovate as relentlessly as this one, and even as a Kitchen Appliances Editor, it’s hard to keep up. I’d barely wrapped up testing the Ninja Blast Max for our best blender guide before getting a first look at their next, even cooler creation.

The new Ninja BlendBOSS™ retailing at $139.99, landed on the site today. It has that classic tumbler shape with a sturdy handle (just like the Stanley cup that sits on my desk 24/7), but you can flip the tumbler upside down, place it on a motor, throw in fruit, and blend a smoothie in seconds.

Here's everything you need to know about what is set to be one of the very best portable travel blenders launched in 2025.

At first glance, I'd worry that the Ninja BlendBoss could be a gimmick, but Ninja promises it's not some underpowered portable gadget. The motor is strong enough to crush ice and fibrous smoothies, or whip up savory dips, soups, or purees.

I immediately thought of my sister (always running from the gym to work), and my friend who packs a huge Stanley Cup, a portable coffee mug, and a blender cup of green smoothie for long study sessions at the library. The Ninja BlendBoss is the kind of tool that actually keeps up. It’s completely leakproof too, so you don't need to stress about tossing it in a tote or gym bag with your other possessions.

I love the adorable spaceship-style design. The BlendBoss comes in four colors – Cyberspace, Blue Raspberry, Lavender Lemonade, and Watermelon Bubblegum – which remind me of the Ninja Crispi portable air fryer, and the Ninja Slushi sorbet shades released this summer.

At $139.99, the NinjaBlendBoss hits that sweet spot for gifting. Nicer than something you’d buy yourself on a whim, but not out of reach.

Other personal blenders we rate

There are many fantastic personal blenders on sale today for Amazon Prime Big Deals Day. If you don't need the latest, greatest gadget, the options below are great.

The Ninja BlendBoss is available on SharkNinja as of today, and with Amazon, Target, and TikTok Shop picking it up soon, I can see this becoming one of those gifts everyone starts talking about. I’m already making a mental list of who’s getting one.

If Ninja is known for anything, it's constant innovation. The Ninja Blast Max is a chunky, 22-oz version of the original Ninja Blast, which I tested last summer. I was a big fan of the original and there wasn't much I'd have improved. Making it larger certainly wouldn’t have been my first thought, but once I got it into the test kitchen, I realized that more had been upgraded than just the size.

In fact, the Ninja Blast Max stands out from all the best personal blenders I’ve tried. The large cup has fixed blades inside, which means you can twist off the cup and drink straight from it without the motor base attached. Cleaning is easier, too – no worrying about water getting on the motor.

On top of that, the Max comes with Auto-IQ Blend, Smoothie, and Crush settings, which automatically tailor your drinks to the exact texture you want, whether you’re making a simple protein shake, fibrous green smoothies, or crushing ice for cocktails. This isn’t just a bigger Ninja Blast, it’s better – in every way.

Product specifications

Blending performance

If you think you'll be blending straight out of the box, think again. The Ninja Blast needs a 3-hour initial charge, which was actually a bit frustrating, since I had a busy day of testing ahead and I wanted to make my smoothies first. However, once fully powered, you can get up to 25 blends before needing to charge again. Once the green charger light finally got glowing, here's what I made in the test kitchen.

Test 1: Berry breakfast smoothie

A berry breakfast smoothie is always my first test when trying out the best blenders. I started by pouring some oat milk up to the 'minimum liquid' line on the side of the Ninja Blast Max – super handy. Then, I added my challenging breakfast ingredients: frozen blueberries, strawberries, chia seeds, flax seeds, almond butter, and a banana. There was more than enough room for everything.

I hit the Smoothie button, and the blender got to work. It was impressively quiet, measuring just 80 decibels – definitely a contender for my quietest blender list. The Ninja Blast Max took 35 seconds to finish the blend.

The results were delicious. I did notice a few tiny flecks of blueberry skin, but they didn’t affect the taste at all. The only truly uniform smoothie I’ve ever had came from an enormous $500 Vitamix, so I can forgive the Ninja Blast Max for a few flecks here and there.

Test 2: Kale smoothie

Next up, a curly kale smoothie, packed with vanilla protein powder, green yoghurt, peanut butter, banana, and oats. The challenge here is the fibrous greens – will the blender be able to blitz them down into nothing? Then there's the nut butter and protein powder – will they clump together or stick to the sides?

The Ninja Blast Max stood up to the challenge. I did have to run the 'Smoothie' cycle twice to really get the kale cut down into tiny flecks, but in the end, it was smooth and refreshing. Just as powerful as the Ninja's best countertop blenders.

Test 3: Ice

Portable blenders aren’t really designed to crush ice. They’re typically too small and underpowered. But I noticed that the Ninja Blast Max packaging boldly claimed: 'TURNS ICE TO SNOW', which was hard to ignore.

To my surprise, it did exactly that. I dropped in three large freezer-fresh ice cubes, added a splash of water, and touched the Crush button. It was pretty loud, but around 60 seconds later, I had a snow-like slush – ideal for frappuccinos or frozen summer cocktails on the go, if that's your thing.

Is it leak-proof and travel-friendly?

When I’ve tested other portable blenders, like the NutriBullet Flip, I always get a flutter of panic packing it into my bag alongside my laptop and notebooks – there’s that constant worry about leaks or spills. With the Ninja Blast Max, I felt strangely confident. The lid screws on tightly and securely, and the built-in seal keeps everything contained (I tested it first by tipping it upside down over the sink).

Once I was out and about, I didn't experience any drips or sticky messes. I can confirm the Ninja Blast Max is a portable blender you can trust.

I was originally concerned about the size of the blender being too large for my bag, but it was totally manageable, as the design is quite wide and squat, plus you can dismantle the motor and leave it at home. It didn't fit into my car cup holders though – if that's a real priority, you might want to get the measuring tape out before you buy – or try the svelte BlendJet2 Portable blender instead.

Cleaning

There are three easy ways to clean the Ninja Blast Max: handwashing, filling the cup with water and a drop of detergent, and hitting Blend, or simply popping the cup in the dishwasher. I tried all three, and each one was quick and effortless.

Compared with the original Ninja Blast, the Max feels even easier to clean. The fixed blades are well-designed, so there are fewer nooks and crannies for food to hide in, and the larger 22-oz cup gives you more room to get in with a sponge if you’re handwashing.

How does it compare?

Ninja Blast vs. Ninja Blast Max

The original Ninja Blast (the link goes to our review) was already one of the best portable blenders out there – compact, convenient, and capable of handling everyday smoothies and frozen blends.

The Ninja Blast Max, however, levels up in almost every area. Its 22-oz capacity gives you more room for larger batches, while the extra voltage and new settings (Smoothie, Blend, and Crush) make it more versatile than the single-speed original. It has a longer battery life, too. It packs in a lot of power, but weighs only 0.4 lbs more than the original.

Both models are easy to clean and dishwasher-safe, but the Ninja Blast Max’s larger jar and new fixed-blade design make it feel even more user-friendly.

NutriBullet Flip vs. Ninja Blast Max

The NutriBullet Flip is another strong contender in the portable blender space, and in some areas, it has an edge. It’s quieter than the Ninja Blast Max and does a better job at keeping drinks cold thanks to its insulated design.

However, the Flip lacks some of the practical touches that make the Max a joy to use. The Ninja’s measurement markings on the side take the guesswork out of prepping smoothies, its transparent cup makes it easier to see the blend in action, and its lighter weight makes it easier to carry around. Most importantly, the Ninja Blast Max can crush ice, giving it the upper hand when it comes to versatility.

Should you buy the Ninja Blast Max?

The Ninja Blast Max takes everything we loved about the original and super-sizes it with more power, more capacity, battery life, and more versatility. It punches well above its weight for a portable design.

I'd recommend it to smoothie lovers who want bigger portions on the go, anyone who likes to make frozen drinks or iced coffees, or those who value ease of cleaning and reliable leak-proof portability.

If you're not quite sure or you need a little more guidance on making the right investment, I recently wrote a guide on how to choose the best blender for your needs.

I don't joke around when it comes to Ninja discounts, since they're just too rare to miss out on – and with $50 off selected appliances right now, I'll certainly regret it if I don't add these bestsellers to my cart immediately.

It's official: for two days only, you can bag the Ninja Slushi Frozen Drink Maker for $50 off using the code SLUSH50. You can also score $50 off the Ninja Luxe Café Premier 3-in-1 Espresso Maker in the stainless steel colorway – just use the code BREW50. Time is of the essence, however, because the deal is only live until 20 September.

As if that wasn't exciting enough, there are sitewide discounts to enjoy, too: you can save 10% on a purchase of $150 or more using the code NINJA10, 15% on a purchase of $250 or more with the code NINJA15, and an impressive 20% on a purchase of $350 or more with the code NINJA20. There really is no better time to make the most of these Ninja deals.

It isn't always easy to figure out the very best coffee maker for you, but I've been totally won over by the Ninja Luxe Café Premier 3-in-1 Espresso Maker: being able to choose between espresso, drip coffee and cold brew will make my home feel like a café.

Fall is, after all, the perfect time to treat yourself to one of the best espresso machines, and I know I won't regret purchasing the Ninja Luxe Café Premier 3-in-1 Espresso Maker while it's available at a lower price – my future self will be grateful for the cozy drinks, and guests will be so impressed by all the different coffee options.

When it comes to the Ninja Slushi Frozen Drink Maker, I was shocked to discover the discount: anyone familiar with the best ice cream makers will know just how legendary the Ninja Slushi has become in the world of frozen desserts, and it's rare to find it on sale.

The $50 discount even applies to a few of the new Ninja Slushi sorbet shades released for summer 2025 – so if you've been lusting after the retro-style Ninja Slushi in green Margarita or the statement Ninja Slushi in Orange Mango, now's your chance to make it yours.

Shop more Ninja appliances

A couple of months ago, shoppers clamoured to get their hands on an exclusive $50 discount dropped on the Ninja Slushi, limited to the first customers to the checkout. If you missed out then, now's your chance, as the discount is back, and this time it's open to everyone!

You can bag the Ninja Slushi Frozen Drink Maker for $299 in the Arctic blue and gray colorway at Ninja Kitchen. If you prefer one of the more vibrant shades they'll be available for $319 – both representing $50 off the full price, until 20 September while stocks last. Just add the code: SLUSH50 at the checkout.

If you felt left out of the best ice cream maker craze this summer, you could be serving up the last of summer cocktails and fun frozen desserts at your fall and holiday parties before you know it.

Why does everyone rave about the Ninja Slushi?

The Ninja Slushi has been a social media hit and I think that's because it takes us right back to the carefree, colorful slushies of childhood. It's our chance to recreate nostalgic favorites – and even make them more sophisticated and grown-up.

Instead of syrupy, sugar-loaded treats, you can serve elegant frozen cocktails (think this season's trending Honey Deuce cocktail), starring your own fresh ingredients. I've sampled the Ninja Slushi drinks for myself, and they are super light, with a snow-like texture you would struggle to get on some of the best blenders.

It’s as simple as pressing a button, and in moments, you've got slushies, milkshakes, and frozen desserts. There's no wonder the brand calls it 'RapidChill' technology.

The new Ninja Slushi sorbet shades of summer 2025 are stylish enough to keep on the counter, and it's definitely a party staple, since the drinks will stay cold for hours, so you can keep them coming.

Clearly in Ninja's eyes, Summer isn't over. Just last week, the brand announced the Ninja FireSide360 Fire Pit Launch, and while that's not on sale yet, Ninja’s site is full of other seasonal deals worth exploring. It's worth a scroll on the seasonal sales section of their website, to see if you spot one of the best Ninja air fryers or something else you like.

Fall is looming large, and just as the seasonal shift starts to get underway, Ninja drops the outdoor entertaining must-have product of the year: introducing the Ninja™ Fireside360™ Outdoor Propane Heater & Smokeless Fire Pit.

We all know the drill with fire pits: hours spent faffing around to get it to light, evenings spent shuffling around to avoid the wafts of smoke, wrapped in blankets trying to find a spot where you can feel a hint of warmth, waiting long into the evening for the embers to die out to signal its safe to retreat to bed, not to mention the dreaded clear up the next morning. But with the Ninja Fireside360, you can turn up and control the heat and smokeless flames with a simple turn of a dial.

You can choose between flame only (great for balmy evenings where no heat is needed), heat only, or flame and heat. It is totally weather-resistant, offering head-to-toe warmth with no smoke and no embers. It can be switched on low for a soft, calm glow or on high for full-throttle heat on icy cold winter evenings, snuggled up under the stars.

The customizable flame means that you can be in total control and get the ambiance just right, to suit the mood. Crucially, you can ignite, extinguish, and control the flame and heat levels, so there's no waiting around and no room for error. It is just as wonderful on sizzling hot summer days and balmy evenings as it is on cooler fall nights.

There is nothing quite as magical about lighting a fire pit under the bright sickle moon, but leaving with hair and clothes smelling strongly of smoke for days to come can make it less of an attractive proposition. Ninja's fire pit is totally smokeless, so it doesn't have to be a stress – it can be used every day, should you wish to.

We are yet to properly test the Fireside360, but are super excited about this new, versatile design from Ninja and cannot wait to get our hands on one!

Shop fall firepit essentials

If you're looking for a fire-pit that's low maintenance, then we think the Ninja Fireside360 is perfect. This is a spring, summer, fall, and winter must-have that will level up your outdoor evening parties and allow you to make the most of your garden through the seasons.

Ninja clearly knows how to tempt us. Just when I’d finished admiring the latest release of its soft-serve ice cream maker, the brand has gone and given the sellout Ninja SLUSHI™ machine a summer glow-up with the dreamiest, popsicle shades, now available for $369 at NinjaKitchen.com.

The new limited-edition palette is nothing short of delicious. There's Frosé, a powdery blush pink; Margarita, a pale green that evokes fresh lime and tequila; Blueberry Tea, a jewel-like deep purple; and Orange Mango, a vibrant sunset in frozen form. It’s the kind of color palette you’d expect from the best ice cream makers – cute and playful yet refined. I’m honestly torn; they’re all so pretty.

For those yet to be seduced, the Ninja Slushi is no ordinary frozen drink maker. Powered by RapidChill Technology, it transforms liquid into perfectly textured slush, no ice cubes required.

Five smart presets let you choose between a light, 'sipable' drink or a luxuriously thick, spoon-worthy dessert. With a generous 88-ounce capacity (over seven servings), it’s the ultimate time-saving trick for a poolside party.

Better still, the Ninja Slushi's insulated design keeps creations deliciously icy for up to 12 hours, meaning you can prepare a batch of summer cocktails before guests arrive and still serve them at a refreshing temperature.

As you can see from the videos going viral on TikTok and Instagram, the Ninja Slushi does claim a large slice of countertop real estate. But here’s my thinking: if something is going to live in full view all summer, it may as well be a joy to look at.

I keep finding myself drawn to the pastel-pink Frozé – and I’m not alone. Instagram is full of comments like, 'The way I need the pink in my life!' I'm also surprised by the love for the Mango color Ninja Slushi, too. It does create a retro orange kitchen aesthetic that reminds me of the popsicles I loved in my childhood summers.

At $369 via NinjaKitchen.com, this Ninja Slushi collection is likely to vanish as quickly as last year’s release. My advice? Choose your shade and move fast, before I talk myself into buying more than just one.

If slushies aren't your thing, there's good news. The brand has repeated the makeover on the Ninja Creami Ice Cream Maker and the Ninja Crispi Air Fryer, too, so everybody can get involved in this colorful summer craze.

I’ve had my eye on the Ninja Slushi for the best part of a year. As someone who loves hosting, I’ve been dreaming of serving up icy summer cocktails and fun frozen drinks at my dinner parties. Even after testing some of the best ice cream makers out there, the Ninja Slushi still tops my wishlist.

On the 11th of July, Ninja Kitchen is offering their very first limited-time discount on the Ninja Slushi. The first 711 customers today will get $50 off.

I've been refreshing the site all morning, and the discount code just went live. Use the code: SLUSHIDAY at NinjaKitchen.com to get $50 off.

Is the Ninja Slushi worth it?

What's so cool about the Ninja Slushi, I hear you ask? Well, I haven't tested it myself yet, but one of my friends has one and it's the talk of our friendship group.

The hype is all about the RapidChill Technology, which can frost your drinks in as little as 15 minutes – no ice required.

With five versatile settings – slush, spiked slush (hello, frozen cocktails), frappe, milkshake, and frozen juice – it’s a frozen drink lover’s dream. The best part in my eyes, is that it keeps your drinks cold for up to 12 hours, so you’re always ready to pour.

So, you'd better get your skates on to get the Ninja Slushi deal. If you miss it, it may be worth checking to see if any of our preferred Ninja Slushi alternatives are on sale.

I have to say, I own the Ninja Creami which is discounted by 20% on Amazon today and I've been having lots of fun experimenting with healthy Ninja Creami recipes. It's all about the homemade frozen treats this summer, folks!

Air fryers have long divided opinion in the world of kitchen appliances. For some, they're the secret to quick, healthy meals; for others, they’re just another bulky gadget cluttering precious countertop space. I sat firmly in the second camp until one Sunday afternoon at my mom’s house changed everything.

She served me a bowl of potatoes so perfectly crisp on the outside and fluffy on the inside, I assumed she'd spent ages in the oven with a careful parboil beforehand. 'No,' she said with a smile, 'Ninja Air Fryer Pro. Fifteen minutes.'

That was all it took. One bite, and my skepticism evaporated. The Ninja Air Fryer Pro 4-in-1, available at Amazon, didn’t just crisp; it transformed the flavor. Vegetables, fish, even leftover pizza suddenly had new life, all without turning on the oven or using much oil. As someone who values function and form in the kitchen, I was surprised at how sleek and space-conscious it actually was.

Even better, the Ninja Air Fryer Pro – recently named the best air fryer of 2025 by Homes & Gardens Kitchen Appliance Editor Lydia Hayman – is currently available at its lowest price on Amazon.

'The Ninja Air Fryer Pro 4-in-1 delivers powerful, fast, and effortless air frying at a price that won’t put a dent in your budget. It's thoughtfully designed, incredibly easy to use, and produces crispy, delicious results in record time.'

This is a rare opportunity to try (or finally invest in) the gadget food lovers are quietly raving about. For busy weeknight dinners, effortless weekend lunches, or just the joy of perfect potatoes, this is one small appliance that earns its space.

What I once dismissed as a needless gadget has become a kitchen game-changer. The Ninja Air Fryer Pro 4-in-1 delivers on crispiness, convenience, and counter-space sense.

At today’s Prime Day price, it’s the perfect time to see what you’re missing out on. Shop it now while it’s on sale, and prepare to be converted.

Shop top-rated air fryers

With so many high-performing air fryers on the market, finding the right one can feel overwhelming. Whether you're looking for sleek design, compact convenience, or multi-functional features, these are the best air fryer deals to shop this Amazon Prime Day. The perfect way to upgrade your kitchen without overspending.

Swirly, vanilla ice cream from self-serve machine at my local steakhouse and mix ins from Dairy Queen are core childhood memories. So, when I heard about the Ninja Swirl™ by CREAMi®, a machine that promised to recreate that nostalgic magic at home (and allow me customize it to my heart’s content), I had to try it.

The Ninja Swirl caused quite a commotion on the internet when it launched. It has six soft serve settings, a new low-calorie CREAMiFit™ mode, and even a frozen custard function. Whether you’re going for classic vanilla, chocolate, or your own bespoke creation, it gives you total control over the ingredients and the texture. The best part is, you can choose between a traditional scoop or soft-serve style swirl, just like the machines we all used to crowd around as kids.

We've tested a range of the best ice cream makers at Homes & Gardens, but this one felt different – like a sweet throwback with modern upgrades. So, is it actually worth the hype? Or just a bulky gimmick with a pretty swirl? Let’s dig in.

Specifications

Design & first impressions

The Ninja Swirl looks very professional, yet wonderfully reminiscent of something you might find in Willy Wonka’s factory. It takes up a lot of space. At a whopping 20 pounds and 17 inches tall, you might want to get your measuring tape out before clicking 'add to cart.'

I found it impossible to fit under my low cabinets and heavy to lift onto my counter, so it's earned a permanent spot there this summer, whether I like it or not.

Actually, once it was in situ, it was pretty easy to slide around the counter, with the weight nicely balanced and all the components securely held. There was no rattling, and the only bit that does require a little bit of extra maneuvering is the cord.

In addition to the Ninja Swirl machine itself, also included in the box were: two freezer pints, a special nozzle for the soft serve function, a drip tray, a quick Start guide, safety instructions, a beautiful recipe book with full color images – as well as a step-by-step recipe card for basic ice cream base and soft-serve.

Both the machine and accessories (except for the blade) appear to be made of a durable plastic. Despite this, everything feels quite premium. No part is flimsy and every component has clear labeling and directions on what it’s used for.

What is it like to use?

Having not used an ice cream machine in at least 35 years (if my old Snoopy Sno-Cone maker even counts), I was a bit intimidated by the Ninja Swirl's very professional-looking setup.

However, I needn't have worried. The instruction booklet was surprisingly straightforward and the only assembly required was attaching the paddle to the swirl canister. Once that was done, it was smooth sailing. Seriously, every Ninja Swirl creation I attempted was smooth, creamy, and easy.

Test 1: Soft Serve

If you're just looking for the headlines, the soft serve function on the Ninja Swirl is magnificent. I wasn’t sure what to expect, but it turned out to be far easier – and more satisfying – than I imagined.

The process is simple, but you need to prep ahead and freeze a pint of soft-serve base the night before you want to eat the ice cream. The next day, you pop the pint into the machine, select the 'Soft Serve' program, and run it through the spin cycle. It's not exactly whisper-quiet – my decibel meter clocked it at around 82 dB – but since the spin only takes about 4 minutes, it’s manageable.

Once the spinning is finished, you remove the pint from the canister, attach the Swirl dispenser, and reinsert it into the machine. Then, open the dial on the pint (which transforms it into the dispenser), position the drip tray to catch any spillover, and pull the lever. The extruder compresses the ice cream inside the pint – and voilà: perfect soft serve.

As soon as the ice cream started swirling, I was instantly transported to Ponderosa Steakhouse, circa 1994. If you're a Midwestern Gen X'er or older Millennial, you'll know exactly what I mean. As kids, we were so excited to be able to use the soft serve machine to make our own sundaes for dessert.

From start to finish (not counting the overnight freeze, of course), the whole process took about 6 minutes. My swirling technique still needs some finesse – but I think practice makes perfect. I’ll be a soft serve pro in no time.

Test 2: Mix ins

I have been craving an M&M Blizzard from Dairy Queen for at least 5 years. Sadly, there is not one near me, so I was absolutely delighted that the Ninja Swirl has a mix-in function.

I was impatient, so I used store-bought vanilla ice cream. Maybe this wasn't ideal, as it didn’t create a very aesthetic outcome. After the initial churn, I added my M&M pieces (chopped up in my trusty Ninja blender) and ran it through the mix-in program, which took 2 minutes. The end result was a bit melty (probably my bad for using the store-bought) but tasted absolutely perfect.

Special functions

With thirteen functions and six soft-serve settings to work through, only two pints, and many other pressing tasks in my home, I'm having to work through all the different features slowly, but surely.

I'll keep sharing updates here as I experiment, but my latest win was a frozen peanut butter and Greek yogurt soft-serve 'pup ice cream' for my dogs (I tried it too – and it was delicious!). Next up on my list: frozen custard, froyo, and sorbet.

Cleaning, storage, & maintenance

The only things that get messy in the Creami Swirl are the ice cream tubs, the blade, lid and the soft-serve dispenser. All components are easy to disassemble and top rack dishwasher safe, so the clean-up was easy for me. I actually washed the blade by hand, since I didn’t want it to fly around inside my dishwasher, because it’s weighty and sharp.

Storage-wise, the Ninja Creami Swirl is undeniably huge. As I mentioned at the start of the review, it is tall and heavy, so I ended up just keeping it on the countertop. I'd recommend evaluating your countertop and storage space before investing in one.

How does it rate online?

Customers generally find the Ninja Swirl ice cream maker very fun, easy to use and effective. One Amazon reviewer echoed my own experience, writing: 'We’ve started making our own ‘copycat’ Dairy Queen Blizzards and frozen yogurt bowls, and it’s actually saving us money. You can load it up with toppings or keep it simple with just fruit – it handles both like a champ.'

Many reviewers also praise how easy the machine is to clean, noting that the parts are dishwasher-safe. The versatility is another highlight, with users appreciating the ability to tweak recipes – whether cutting down on sugar or making dairy-free versions that feel healthier than store-bought alternatives. Many people recommend grabbing extra containers from Ninja Kitchen to make the most out of the machine, since the two containers can be limiting.

While the average reviews online hover around 4.5 stars, not everyone is sold. Some customers feel the machine is pricey for what it offers, and the noise level draws mixed reviews – several users mention it’s on the louder side. I agree that it is a little loud and expensive; perhaps one to keep an eye on when the sales hit.

How does it compare to other models?

Our Kitchen Appliances Editor, Lydia, has tested both the Original and Deluxe Ninja Creami models, so we compared notes to see how the latest addition – the Ninja Swirl – stacks up.

In terms of size, none of the Creami models are especially compact, and they’re all on the louder side during use. The Creami Original includes 7 basic functions: sorbet, ice cream, lite ice cream, milkshake, mix-in, gelato, and smoothie bowl. The Creami Deluxe builds on that with five additional options: frozen yogurt, Creamiccino, frozen drink, slushi, and Italian ice.

If you're not sold on the Swirl features and want to stay closer to a $200 budget, the Original or Deluxe models might suit you just fine.

For more options, check out our buying guide to the best ice cream makers, which includes a range of alternatives for every budget and ice cream obsession.

Should you buy it?

If you love soft-serve, you'll have a lot of fun here. The results from the Ninja Swirl by Creami are super light, creamy, and picture-perfect. I think it's great for families with young kids, or those who are frequent entertainers looking for show-stopping desserts. However, if you're not fussy about your ice cream aesthetics and can forgo the cone, you will find the Ninja Creami Deluxe a more affordable choice.

How we test

We are dedicated to how we test all of our appliances. All of our experts are well-established product testers, able to discern whether these are worthy investments for your home.

For ice cream makers, we researched the best products on the market. We wanted to look for appliances that were good value for money with exceptional results. We took these to our test kitchen and, over the course of a few days, tested these on ice cream, non-dairy ice cream, sorbet, and frozen yogurt. We made notes on the whole process from unboxing to cleaning up, to make sure that we didn’t miss a thing. All of these ice cream makers were tested alongside each other, so we could make direct comparisons between them and their results.

It might be the middle of winter, but if ice cream is on your mind, we wouldn’t blame you. Lately, Ninja has been flooding our feeds with picture-perfect swirls of soft-serve to tease the launch of their latest creation – the Ninja Swirl.

Here at Homes & Gardens, we're not only dreaming of ice cream; we're actually eating it too! We've managed to get our hands on an early Ninja Swirl sample to put it to the test and see how it shapes up in comparison with our favorite Ninja products.

Our tester, Kate, is putting the new Ninja Swirl through its paces (she's even testing puppy ice cream). The full review will be here soon, so stay tuned. But in the meantime, Kate has some early impressions to share – and let's just say, there are some fairly large surprises.

Ninja Swirl: Our First Impressions

Kate has set the Ninja Swirl up in her kitchen, and her first thought is: it is big. At a whopping 20 pounds and 17 inches tall, you might want to get your measuring tape out before clicking 'add to cart.'

Kate says, 'The Ninja Creami Swirl is a substantial, heavy machine. However, it is easy to move around, with the weight nicely balanced and all components securely held. There is no rattling and the only bit that requires a little bit of extra maneuvering is the cord.'

'Having not used an ice cream machine in at least 35 years (if my old Snoopy Sno-Cone maker even counts) I am a bit intimidated by the very professional-looking setup.'

Kate says the Ninja Swirl is ultra-premium. 'It's wonderfully reminiscent of something you might find in Willy Wonka’s laboratory. But it definitely takes up a bit of space, so that might be a consideration if countertop real estate is limited. That said, I’m thinking it’s going to have a permanent spot on my counter this summer!'

What does the Ninja Swirl do?

It might be big, but there's tons of functionality on the Ninja Swirl ice cream maker. There are no less than six soft serve programs, as well as a new low calorie 'CreamiFit setting' and a frozen yoghurt function, too.

Whether you prefer dairy-free, low-sugar options, or more classic creations, the Ninja Swirl ice cream maker puts the power in your hands. From creamy chocolate to healthy matcha or strawberry sorbet, you can whip up flavors to suit your taste and dietary preferences. Plus, you also get to choose between a traditional scoop or a beautiful soft-serve swirl.

Kate says, 'Every component has clear labeling and directions on what it’s used for. In addition to the machine itself, also included in the box were two freezer pints, a special nozzle for the soft serve function, and a fantastic recipe book with full-color images and easy, step-by-step basic recipes for ice cream base and soft-serve.'

If the extra soft-serve features don’t sway you, the simpler and smaller Ninja Creami Deluxe is still well worth considering for your frozen treats. We rated it 4.5 stars in our in depth tests. Or, I've actually seen Ninja's simplest ice cream maker, the Ninja Original, in the February sales at Ninja Kitchen, discounted by a huge $100. It has seven functions including sorbet, ice cream, and milkshakes.

Can I buy the Ninja Swirl yet?

As with any hotly anticipated tech, the Ninja Swirl has sparked a lot of curiosity. Commenters on social media have been asking: What’s the price? Where can I buy it? Is it worth it?

Well, I have some answers. The Swirl Ice Cream Maker has launched on the Ninja Kitchen US, retailing for $349.99. To my surprise, it hasn't sold out yet – although the brand caution that there is a 'high risk of sellout.' The brand has sold out most of the Ice Cream Maker accessories, but a pack of four Ninja Swirl pints is available, if you're quick.

Our product tester, Kate, will have a full review to share with us soon, with more detailed thoughts on the taste tests, ease of use, clean up, and value for money. So stay tuned for the scoop (or swirl)!

H&G's top-rated dessert makers

If you're looking for more ice cream inspiration, we've tried and tested a wide range of machines (it's a hard job but someone has to do it!). We loved the Ninja Deluxe the most and thought the Cuisinart Soft-Serve maker wasn't a great investment. Here's the scoop on the Ninja Swirl competitors.

It's no secret that David Beckham is a fan of Ninja. The soccer player has partnered with the brand to show how he uses their kitchen appliances throughout his home countless times. As an avid cook and heath foot aficionado, it makes complete sense, and he has a new favorite blender this Christmas.

The 'footballer' took to Instagram to share a video of his Christmas decorations, and a Ninja Blast Portable Blender (available from Ninja) features prominently. In the humorous reel, Beckham steals the Ninja Blast from a stocking that ostensibly belongs to one of his children. He takes it to the kitchen and quietly makes himself a midnight smoothie. He then washes the blender and places it back in the stocking, ready to gift on Christmas morning. Not only does Beckham think the blender makes a great stocking stuffer, but he wants one himself.

It's clear why Beckham is obsessed with the blender. The Ninja Blast has a stylish, cordless, and hand-held design. It charges via USB-C for repeated use year after year. Its easy sip lid makes it simple to take on the go, as Beckham demonstrates. Despite its portable nature, the blender is relatively large, allowing room for up to 18 ounces of beverage. Plus, it's BPA-free and dishwasher-safe.

Beckham's choice has been consistently highly rated. H&G Kitchen Editor Lydia Hayman named the Ninja Blast the Best Portable Blender of 2024. In her Ninja Blast review, she calls it 'a portable blender actually worth buying.' She states: 'portable blenders have always struck me as gimmicks,' but then continues, 'However, when I put it to the test, I found a good blender in its own right. It did a great job with berries, leafy greens, and protein and creatine powders. It's remarkably good at crushing ice for a blender of this size and I used it at home for a delicious slushie. It lived up to our commute test, and it has lots of excellent safety features.'

If you are looking for a last-minute Christmas gift to add to a health-conscious friend or family member's stocking, David Beckham just might have you covered. With a seal of approval from both the king of soccer and kitchen appliance experts, it seems you can't go wrong.

Ninja appliances are everywhere at the moment, with the Ninja Creami amassing a cult following and David Beckham endorsing their range of appliances. With so much hype, you'd be forgiven for buying the Ninja Woodfire pizza oven without a second thought.

But before you buy, there are some other options to consider. We thought the oven was pretty good when we put it to the test. If you buy the oven, you'll get a fine appliance that makes fairly good pizza. However, 'pretty good' isn't the best, and for $300, you should get the very best pizza oven you can.

I think there are three other deals to consider before you take the plunge. Here's everything we found when we tested the Ninja Woodfire - and why there are other deals out there worth considering.

What's the deal with this pizza oven?

Is the pizza oven good?

This pizza oven is fine. It makes a fairly good pizza, but there's a technical detail that means that it's nowhere near the heights of an Ooni or Gozney oven.

Unlike most domestic pizza ovens, this appliance works using an electric filament. It's like a souped-up Easy-Bake oven. It can generate enough heat to cook a pizza fairly quickly.

When we tested this oven, we found that it can bake a pizza in around four minutes. That sounds impressive until you realize that that's four times longer than a wood-fired or gas-fuelled pizza oven.

That means that this pizza oven also won't puff up the crust in the same way as a gas or wood pizza oven. These ovens get twice as hot as the Ninja. The crust instantly bakes hard and fluffs up at the edges as the water in the dough evaporates into steam - this is what makes a classic pizza crust.

That reaction isn't possible in the Ninja Woodfire. It bakes the pizza dough to a consistency more like bread than pizza crust. It's fine, but it's not entirely dissimilar to baking the pizza in an oven - in which case there's no point in dropping a couple hundred dollars on the oven.

That's also true with toppings. When I tested the new Ooni Karu 2 Pro last week it did an amazing job at cooking vegetables. In just a minute, onions and courgettes on a flatbread developed a delicious char while maintaining a little juiciness. When we made a vegetarian pizza in the Ninja Woodfire, the vegetables were warmed up, but not charred, so it made for damp toppings.

This oven does have one unique feature: the smoker. Unlike other pizza ovens, this is equipped with a wood hopper to smoke meats. This is fine - it makes good joints of smoked meat. However, the hopper is tiny, so you have to keep topping it up as it cooks, unlike, say, a Traeger, which doesn't need constant attention and can hold much more meat.

In short, the oven is fine - but you can get much better appliances for around the same price.

What should you buy instead?

I think there are three deals of around the same price that are a better option than the Ninja Woodfire:

However, don't just take my word for it. Black Friday sees amazing discounts but its important to shop around. Every pizza tester in the world recommends Ooni and it can feel suspicious, so it's worth checking out Ooni alternatives. There is also a range of indoor pizza ovens to consider - and some at around the same price as this Ninja Woodfire.

We believe that ice cream can and should be enjoyed year-round; however, during the colder months, the thought of venturing out of the house to get a cone is less than appealing. That's where ice cream makers come in – and it would seem that the most famous family in California is already no stranger to its powers.

Kris Jenner, the socialite and Kardashian 'momager,' is a fan of one model in particular: the Ninja CREAMi, an ice cream maker (available via Walmart) that also spins milkshakes, sorbets, and more. It's one of the best ice cream makers currently available, so it's not surprising that it found its way into Jenner's kitchen.

'Meet my new obsession, especially as we head into the holidays I do lots of entertaining,' Jenner states in a clip posted on her Instagram page. 'You can turn almost anything into ice cream, from healthy fruit sorbets to decadent ice cream. You can customize it with candy or nut mixes of your choice, like these chocolate mix-ins. I worked with the Ninja team to design a custom favorite flavor – it's coffee with a chocolatey crunch.'

The machine is highly customizable, allowing users to select a frozen base and then transform it into something creamy, whether sweet or savory.

After freezing your base for 24 hours, the CREAMi whips it into a soft and scoopable treat. The machine's sleek design, compact size, and easy-to-use touchscreen are all selling points, in addition to the delicious creations it can make. It's no surprise, then, that our in-house tester gave the Ninja Creami Deluxe four and a half stars in her review. 'The Creamimade made the perfect vanilla ice cream. It was light, cold, crisp and smooth. There wasn’t any graininess or ice crystals. It was a proper success,' she says.

At such a low price and with endorsements from Jenner (and our reviewer), we're sold on the Ninja CREAMi. However, there's not much point in having an ice cream maker without some stylish accessories to make the experience even better (especially this hosting season).

Some people opt for coffee in the morning, while others have an affinity for protein smoothies. For Lala Kent, a dirty soda is her choice of morning brew, so it's only natural that she has a soda maker at home for her early A.M. concoctions. Kent's go-to? Ninja's Thirsti Still and Carbonated Water Maker, which is a best seller for a reason.

The Vanderpump Rules star made her love for this appliace official via a partnership with Ninja, who just launched their new ZERO SODA Flavor Drops – the new must-have addition for anyone who, like Kent, swears by their Ninja.

Rather than purchasing single-serve sodas, the Thirsti allows you to create your own blends at home – and with 25 flavor options, you can shake up your routine with a different-tasting beverage every morning.

'I'm obsessed with my Ninja Thirsti!' Kent shared in an exclusive interview with H&G. 'It was the perfect partnership because of my obsession with sparkling water. Then you add on the flavor drops – you can really customize any beverage from the amount of flavor to the amount of bubbles. And I feel like it's a must-have in all households; it's the perfect gift.' Plus, we're in luck. Her go-to is among some of the best black Friday Ninja deals already available (yes, ahead of the big day). You can shop via Amazon below.

Kent explains that she uses the machine from day to night, with plenty of options for different moods and times of the day. 'When they came out with the ZERO SODA Flavored Water Drops is when my world really got rocked,' she says. 'I am officially obsessed to a new level like I'm the girl who likes making a dirty soda. Having my Dr. Thirsti in the morning and then having a nightcap later on as well.'

The modern and compact appearance of the Ninja, which comes with a water reservoir, is another highlight for Kent, who says that the model suits small kitchens.

'For me, the Ninja Thirsti is already very sleek, and it looks fabulous on any kitchen countertop, so if you have limited counter space – I would say it’s the perfect size,' she explains. 'Also, since you would use it every day it's worth having that be the main on your countertop and everything else off – so you have your Ninja Luxe Café, then you have your Ninja Thirsti. Things like a toaster can go in a drawer or cabinet. Keep items you use every day on display.'

She continues, 'I first focus on the aesthetic of all things, and for me, I like convenience. I need it to be functional but also pretty. So, I like to put things on the countertop that I'm using throughout the day.'

The Thirsti comes in customizable bundle options, so you can select a combination of flavor drops that suit your preferences.

This aside, our appliance editor handpicked these Ninja deals that are worth the investment this Black Friday. You can get ahead of the crowd now.

At the end of a long day of work, you need kitchen appliances that can help you make dinner for your family quickly and easily, with very little mess. You also want pieces that look stylish on your countertops and don't take up too much space. The air fryer boom has been wonderful for those of us who prioritize simplicity and aesthetics in our cooking, but not all air fryers are created equal.

Celebrities always have their fingers on the pulse of the best appliances, so when searching for the best air fryer, we turned to an unlikely place: Michael Bublé and Luisana Lopilato's kitchen.

Bublé and Lopilato swear by the Ninja Foodi Os300, one of the most consistently well-rated air fryers, to cook for their family. We spotted the appliance in a recent Instagram video from Lopilato, where she makes her children and their friends an appropriately named 'octopus sausage' (literally hot dogs cut in the shape of an octopus). It makes delicious food in moments.

As per usual, the couple knows what they're doing. Our Ninja Foodi 14-in-1 8qt XL review ranks a very similar appliance to Bublé and Lopilato's at 4.5 out of 5 stars. Contributing Editor Alyssa LeAnne Owens lauds the machine for its wide range of cooking options, all of which work incredibly well. She says that it preheats quickly, and the 'keep warm' function is great for family cooking. Her only criticism is that it takes up too much space on the countertop.

Luckily, for those who want one of the best Ninja air fryers in a more compact size, Amazon is offering up to 40% off of some of its best-selling styles for Prime Day. Though they aren't the exact style used by Bublé and Lopilato, all of Ninja's products are among Homes & Gardens's most loved list of kitchen appliances.

Though Michael Bublé's kitchen might not be the first place you think to look for air fryer inspiration, when his idea is this good, and on sale, how can we resist?

Ninja’s wide, capacious Dual-Zone proudly held a top spot in our best air fryer guide for a while. However, with the arrival of Ninja’s extra large, slender, two-tier model – the Ninja Double Stack Air Fryer – there's a new kid on the block.

This model is narrow and unassuming, yet each basket contains two cooking levels, allowing you to cook up to four different ingredients simultaneously. On my first test, I cooked French fries, chicken thighs, courgettes, and green beans all at once. With minimal involvement and no preheating required, my dinner was ready in 20 minutes. Truly a game-changer for families, busy individuals, and compact kitchens.

There are a few snags, like instances of uneven browning and racks that are hot to handle. But for me, Ninja's Double Stack is exactly what the best air fryers should be: speedy and reliable for delicious dinners.

Ninja Double Stack Air Fryer: First impressions

The first thing I noticed about the Ninja Double Stack Air Fryer is the sleek, svelte shape. It has a small footprint; narrow and slender enough to fit neatly under your kitchen cabinets. It glides effortlessly around the countertop, or you could easily tuck it away in a pantry or tall cupboard if you want it out of sight. I like the matte exterior and brushed silver or copper handles.

Cooking performance

To test the best air fryers on the market, I focus on exceptional cooking performance. As a trained cook and kitchen appliances editor, I rigorously test each model by air-frying frozen French fries, chicken wings, and roasted vegetables. For my first test of the Ninja Double Stack, I followed a meal recommendation from the recipe manual, as it contained all the ingredients I usually test.

Test 1: French Fries

The recipe preset suggested cooking the fries for 20 minutes, with instructions to shake the basket three times during the process. This feels like quite a lot of 'checking in', but I was glad in the end. When I checked at the 15-minute mark, the fries were already perfectly golden (although some at the back were very slightly paler). I decided to stop the timer early, and the results were outstanding.

The French fries were restaurant-quality – crispy on the outside and fluffy within. My partner said they were the best home-cooked fries he’s ever had and I agreed (high praise, as we eat a lot of frozen fries when I'm testing).

Test 2: Chicken thighs

I tipped some green vegetables into the bottom drawer, then slotted over the rack and placed two chicken thighs on top. I used the preset to Air Fry for 20 minutes. The chicken emerged with a crispy, slightly charred skin, which tasted delicious. The meat was juicy but I prefer it a little more succulent. I usually cook chicken thighs in the oven, and I find that makes the meat just a bit more tender.

Test 3: Roasted vegetables

The mixture of green beans and courgettes in the lower drawer turned out beautifully golden and caramelized, almost as if they had been slow-roasted. However, when I tried the same ingredients on the rack, the results were different. The courgettes at the front were charred and crisp, while those at the back remained pale. This uneven result could be due to insufficient shaking (it was tricky on the rack, because slices slipped through the grates!).

Test 4: Sausages

I also cooked some sausages on the rack and noticed the same problem. The heating element is clearly stronger at the front of the drawers. However, my sausages were saved by shuffling them around the rack and flipping two or three times, until every sausage was golden and delicious. I like my sausages really crispy. It usually takes me about 40 minutes to achieve anything close to this result in an oven, but the Ninja did it in 15 minutes (including the preheat) – so all was completely forgiven.

Test 5: Special Features

With six versatile functions – Air Fry, Max Crisp, Roast, Bake, Reheat, and Dehydrate – the Ninja Double Stack XL offers countless possibilities. The Air Crisp function gives breaded or battered foods an extra crunch. I tried it on chicken goujons and nuggets, and was very impressed.

The Bake function allowed me to whip up a delicious Chocolate Peanut Butter Brownie recipe from Ninja's manual. The brownies were quite thin and fudgy (rather than gooey, like you achieve in a traditional oven) but the process was very convenient. With no preheating and a slick cleanup, this air fryer is a great baking alternative. Plus, you can fill both drawers with brownie batter and end up with around 20 slices to feed a crowd.

Ease of use

In my experience, Ninja always prioritizes a user-friendly design. The instruction manual is brilliant, packed with recipes, meal-plans and temperature presets, so you can shut your brain off and cook with ease. While the display panel isn’t particularly high-tech, it’s effective and satisfying to use.

The 'match' and 'sync' options are a nice touch. Once you've selected the temperature and time on Basket 1, you can select the 'match' button to duplicate the settings for Basket 2. The 'sync' button allows you to set different cooking times, with a synchronized finish for serving at the dinner table.

Although there are no recipe presets on the display panel itself, this air fryer does come with a handy sticker to remind you of all the basic times and temperatures for meats, fish, veggies and fries. If you remove this sticker, you might be a little lost, so make sure to keep the booklet nearby.

One final note: you need to buy a pair of silicone tongs for this air fryer. The metal racks are hot to the touch, and prevent you from tipping food directly onto your plate. Thankfully, tongs are already in my collection of air fryer accessories I couldn't live without.

Capacity

Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just yourself, the Ninja Double Stack Air Fryer’s 10-quart capacity is more than ample. Ninja say it can feed up to 8 people and cook up to 10lbs of chicken wings. I find it perfect for my partner and I – and I've also used it for entertaining two guests.

The recipe booklet also claims you can fit a 5-pound chicken in one drawer. I didn't try it, but I have my doubts. The drawers look too narrow for that. If you need to roast larger cuts of meat, I'd recommend the Foodi FlexBasket instead.

Ease of Cleaning

If you're wondering how to clean the Ninja Double Stack Air Fryer, it has removable parts that are dishwasher-safe and easy to hand-wash. The ceramic non-stick coating on the crisper plates allows food residue to be wiped off with minimal effort – just soapy water and a soft sponge.

Even better, Ninja is an international brand, so there are several compatible basket liners available on Amazon. This is the easiest way to speed up cleaning and make your air fryer last longer. I fell in love with the silicone liners which fit perfectly into each basket.

The exterior, with its matte finish and silver handles, feels almost fingerprint-proof, making it easy to maintain its sleek appearance on your counter, too.

Design & Durability

The build quality of the Ninja Double Stack Air Fryer inspires confidence. It's narrow but well-balanced and sturdy. The cool-touch exterior and non-slip feet add to its safety, ensuring that it stays securely in place on your countertop.

Customer reviews

Customer reviews for the Ninja Double Stack XL are generally very positive, with an impressive 4.5-star rating on Amazon. Customers rave about its ability to produce perfectly crispy fries, simplify family meals, and offer effortless cleanup. However, a couple of reviews raise concerns about the price and value for money, as well as the uneven browning I mentioned earlier.

One reviewer praised the non-toxic, ceramic coating on the crisper plates, but was disappointed by the PTFE coating in the drawers. If you're concerned about non-stick coatings, rest assured they are generally safe. They just require some care and maintenance, and you need to pay attention to make sure your air fryer stands the test of time. I've written up everything you need to know about non-toxic cookware in my latest feature.

How does it compare?

I’m currently testing Ninja’s DoubleStack and DualZone models side by side – to give you a clear comparison. I’ll come back here to update you very soon, but for now, it’s shaping up to be a very close call!

Our Verdict

The Ninja DoubleStack is certainly an investment, but I do think it's worthwhile if you're in the market for a large air fryer. With the 10-quart capacity, Ninja’s DoubleStack can feed a crowd, yet it still looks sleek and slender. It makes the crispiest French fries I've ever created – and I can forgive the occasions of uneven browning, for the ease of use and cleanup. I think it's a top choice for families and smaller kitchens.

How we test the best air fryers

To test the best air fryers on the market, I focus on exceptional cooking performance. As a trained cook and kitchen appliances editor, I rigorously test each model by air-frying frozen French fries, chicken wings, and roasted vegetables. During our taste tests, we seek food that’s perfectly crispy on the outside and tender within. Our team has already tested the market leaders, so we know the industry benchmarks.

Ease of use is the best part of air frying, so my tests also evaluate the intuitiveness of the controls, basket design, instruction booklet and the accuracy of recipe presets. I also make sure to explore any special features, like grilling and dehydrating, to assess the versatility. While I'm cooking, I make notes on capacity – essential knowledge if you're looking for a family-sized air fryer.

Cleaning up can be a hassle, so I check if the removable parts are easy to wash, whether by hand or in the dishwasher. I also examine for non-toxic materials and durability. After testing, I scour the web for the best and worst customer reviews to assess the air fryer's reliability and overall customer satisfaction.

Finally, when you're making a kitchen investment, price really matters, so we weighed up the grill's features and performance to see if it offers good value for money. Ultimately, our goal is to ensure you choose an air fryer that looks stylish in your kitchen, as well as being reliable, efficient, and a joy to use.

Making a splash in the US market on July 11th, the Ninja SLUSHi™ quickly sold out. It’s nowhere to be seen on supermarket shelves, but everywhere on social media. My feed is filled with lucky people whipping up refreshing slushies and frappuccinos in their shiny new Ninjas.

So, what makes the Ninja Slushi so special? It's all about the RapidChill Technology, which can reportedly frost your drinks in as little as fifteen minutes – no ice needed. There are five exciting settings – slush, spiked slush (think: frozen cocktails), frappe, milkshake, and frozen juice. Ninja says it can keep drinks cold for up to twelve hours, too.

It sounds speedy, user-friendly, and utterly delicious. There's just one snag: you'll have to join a waitlist to get your hands on one. You're not alone; I'm also patiently waiting to test and review this cool new gadget.

In the meantime, if your cravings can't wait, I've got some Ninja Slushi alternatives for you. While Ninja’s machine does boast cutting-edge features, some of the best blenders on the market can also crush ice to make slushy, frozen treats. They might be a tad less fun to use (and you might not go viral for using them) but on a hot summer's day, the results are just as delightful.

Best Ninja Slushi Alternatives

If you want to get your frozen fix immediately, the best Ninja Slushi alternatives are right here.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after instant gratification and spontaneous frozen drinks, the Ninja Slushi looks like your go-to gadget. Its rapid chill technology supposedly takes your drinks from zero to frozen in as little as fifteen minutes and keeps them that way for twelve hours. It sounds ideal for entertaining. Once I’ve tested it (it's on route to me right now), I’ll report straight back.

However, with the help of a powerful blender or ice cream maker, you can still enjoy frozen drinks this summer. Or at least, while you wait for the Ninja Slushi to become available again.

FAQs

From his vegetable garden to his chicken coop, David Beckham takes his time outside seriously. As summer sets in, that means preparing seriously for cooking outdoors.

A huge part of barbequing is choosing the best grill, and Beckham has landed on his top pick: The Ninja Woodfire Grill. Ninja took to Instagram to share a photo of the famed soccer player posed with his grill to announce their new partnership. Since Beckham is known for his love of cooking and SharkNinja is known for its innovative kitchen technology, it's a match made in heaven.

'David shares our commitment to performance and quality, sets the same unimaginably high bar that we do, and is deeply passionate about cooking,' says Mark Barrocas, Chief Executive Officer at SharkNinja. He continues, 'We are so excited to work with him to bring the Ninja story to life and help us advance our mission to positively impact people’s lives around the world.'

With Memorial BBQ parties right around the corner, it's a perfect time to spotlight Ninja's incredible portable grill, which has gained the David Beckham seal of approval. The grill has gained acclaim for its sleek look and multitude of settings from classic grilling to smoking and airfrying. It is certainly a showpiece that would compliment any outdoor kitchen.

Beckham says: I love to be at home creating meals for my family either in the kitchen or cooking outside so I’m delighted to partner with Ninja to help bring greater awareness to their amazing products.'

David isn't alone in loving Ninja's products, especially the grill he's pictured with. In our Ninja Woodfire Outdoor Grill review the H&G editor who tried the oven gave it 4.5/5 stars. She lauded the multitude of capabilities of the grill, especially the smoking settings, which make this tool especially unique for an electric grill.

Editor Alex Temblador gushes, 'Many grills have multiple cooking functions, but there isn’t anything on the market quite like the Ninja Woodfire Outdoor Grill.' She continues, 'Portable, affordable, and easy to clean, the Ninja Woodfire Outdoor Grill has become our favorite grilling toy.' Coming from someone who reviews home tech for a living, I can't think of a higher endorsement, except for maybe David Beckham's approval.

Ninja's kitchen tech plus David Beckham is a powerful combination, and we can't wait to see what else comes out of this collaboration.

In my time as one of Homes & Garden's kitchen experts, I've seen it all. I've tested the steamers, slow cookers, air fryers, toaster ovens, and countertop ovens. The Ninja Combi Multicooker claims to condense all these functions (and more) into one, simple appliance. It makes big promises, but does it deliver on them?

I put the Ninja Combi oven on my countertop to run it through a series of tests across the range of functions on offer. The test was only supposed to last for a day, but I kept it there and I kept it there and I kept it there until two weeks had passed. It quickly became my sous chef. Or, I should say, I became its sous chef. Now, I've had it for over a year and it has pretty much replaced my oven.

For starters, the Ninja Combi is easily one of the best toaster ovens I've ever tested. It can also cook chips like the best air fryers, roast a whole chicken, steam vegetables, and proof bread. It even uses ceramic-coated baskets and trays, making it one of the best non-toxic air fryers, too. It does everything and it does it well.

Specifications

Unboxing

Before we get into the unboxing process for the Combi, let me set some expectations. Countertop ovens are never small and the Combi isn't either. It's relatively compact in the context of countertop ovens, but it dwarfed my, somewhat chunky espresso machine when I lifted it onto the countertop. It's worth every inch of space, but that's one of the most striking things about unboxing the Combi: its size.

Thankfully, the Combi is easy to shift around and, in true Ninja style, the design is sleek and attractive. Getting everything set up was easy. The packaging was all recyclable (big tick), there wasn't any unnecessary cardboard (another big tick), and all I had to do was plug it in to set the Combi running.

Who would it suit?

If you live in a city apartment without an oven, this is the appliance for you. Given how versatile and capable the Ninja Combi is, it can meet a wide range of cooking needs. I’ve even been able to cook an entire roast dinner for five people in it!

The variety of functions makes it an excellent choice for anyone debating which kitchen appliance to invest in – whether that's an air fryer, steamer, proofer, or rapid cooker. If you enjoy experimenting with different cooking methods or simply want to streamline meal prep, the Combi is a great all-in-one solution.

It’s also well-suited for health-conscious cooks. Ninja explains that the pans and crisper tray are made from durable aluminum with a non-stick nano-ceramic coating that is FDA-approved and food-safe. The bake tray has an enamel coating, which is PTFE- and PFOA-free. I also appreciate the glass windows, which allow you to monitor your food as it cooks, reducing the risk of burning and potential exposure to toxins (you can read more about this in my feature: 'Are air fryers toxic?')

If you're short on time or want to reduce energy bills, the Ninja Combi can help with this too. It takes less than a minute to get to the temperature. I think this is why I keep returning to the Combi, opting to use it instead of my main oven because it was quicker to get ready, speedy when cooking, and then easy to clean. It works wonders for my utilities too, since I am only heating one small space.

One review that stood out to me was from a gentleman whose wife had just given birth. He wasn’t a confident cook, so he bought a Ninja Combi to help him. The presets made it easy to prepare healthy, complete meals for his growing family – something that speaks to how user-friendly this appliance is.

The only people who will need to pause for thought are those who are short on space. The Ninja Combi is pretty bulky, so you'll need to clear some room on the countertop if you want to use this.

What is it like to use?

The beauty of the Combi is in its simplicity. You plug it in and there's a switch at the top. One will offer you a menu of Combi cooker functions (combi meals, combi crisp, combi bake, steam, proof, and rice/pasta)The other air fry/stovetop selection will give you the ability to air fry, bake, broil, toast, sear, slow cook, sous vide, and make pizza. It sounds like a lot (it is), but it means that the Combi can cover a range of needs.

There are also manual settings, where you can set different timers, temperatures, and more. Being able to toggle between the combi cooker and air fryer menu means that you can let your oven do the hard work, or you can choose to tinker with the settings for yourself.

Test 1: steaming

Before the Ninja Combi, I wasn't somebody who steamed fruit and vegetables regularly. These days, I use it a lot. It won't sound like the Combi is much different from placing a steamer on top of a pan on the stove, but it is. The timer and settings mean that you can set the Combi running and it will steam until the pre-set timer is finished. There's no risk of oversteaming or your pan boiling over because the Combi controls it all.

The very first thing I steamed was an apple. I filled the Combi's tray with some water and then sat the air fryer basket on top of the water. I scattered the apple pieces across the basket and switched the mode to steam. The Combi auto-sets a timer for ten minutes, but I moved mine down to five minutes.

I needed my apple to be on the far side of steamed because it was going to become a puree in one of the doughs that I was making for the proofing test. As you can see in the picture, this was a great success. In under five minutes, my apple was steamed enough that I could puree it with a spoon.

Test 2: prooving

If you're a keen baker, you'll know what a Godsend a speedy place to prove your bread can be. I made an enriched fruit dough, which, without a proover takes two hours to double in size. Mine needed only half an hour before the buns had nicely puffed up and doubled in size.

Here's where the Ninja Combi's convenience came into play. I used the baking setting to bake my fruit buns, which took only eighteen minutes at 390 degrees. That's speedy. minutes. They were nicely browned on top and light and fluffy inside, perfectly prooved and baked.

Test 3: air frying

Air fryers have been the talk of the appliance industry for the last couple of years. More recently, I've seen them integrated into other kitchen appliances, including pressure cookers and countertop ovens, so I wasn't surprised that the Combi has an air fryer function.

The Combi has a useful air fryer basket, which I tested on fries and fish sticks. These are both cooked from frozen, so they're a great test for the heating power of the air fryer.

After fourteen minutes on the pre-set, my fries were nicely crisped up. They all looked evenly golden, with a good crunch on the outside and a fluffy texture on the inside. I was surprised that the Combi had achieved these results in just fifteen minutes (including pre-heating) because that's quicker than some of the best air fryers on the market.

The fish sticks were the same story: the breaded crumb exterior was nicely crisp and the insides were steaming and warm. As far as air fryers go, this is seriously impressive.

Test 4: roasting

I wanted to test the capacity of the Combi for you, and a great way to do that is with a roast chicken. I bought a chicken big enough for my family of five and prepared the trimmings for a roast dinner.

The chicken fitted easily onto the Combi tray. I basted it in a mix of herbs and olive oil and sat it on the tray with some vegetables around and underneath it. After just 45 minutes, the chicken was done and ready to eat. The skin was nice and crispy on the outside, but still succulent and tender inside. Hungry households will know that a roast chicken in just 45 minutes is incredible.

Test 5: grilling

If you're starting to think that the Ninja Combi could actually replace your oven, you're right. Just wait until I tell you about the results of these grill tests.

You can see how my cauliflower cheese turned out in the image above. It developed a deliciously crispy top with beautifully golden speckles across the cheese. The process was seamless: I first used the steamer function to soften the cauliflower, then poured over the cheese sauce and switched to the grill setting. It only took four minutes to achieve a lovely golden finish, but after peering through the viewing window, I decided to add another two minutes for extra crispy peaks. When I finally plated it up, I was feeling pretty pleased with myself.

For the grilled vegetable test, I chopped up peppers, carrots, and onions, placed them on the air fryer basket, and set the Combi to grill. It heated up almost instantly, so I popped the vegetables in and let it do its thing. Just six minutes later, I was greeted with perfectly charred peppers, crisped edges on the onions, and beautifully tender textures throughout. To call it a success would be an understatement – the Combi nailed it.

Test 6: baking

I've already mentioned that my fruit buns were a baking success, but I wanted to test a whole cake. I'm a keen baker, so I was eager to see whether the Ninja Combi could actually replace an oven for a variety of baking tasks.

First, I made a banana cake in a classic sandwich tin. I could have fitted two tins in, one on top of the other, but that would have required me to put one under the tray and I knew they wouldn't bake evenly.

My single banana cake was baked and ready to eat in just fifteen minutes. I was really impressed with the speed of the Combi and even more grateful for the timer. I put the cake tin in, set the time and temperature, and left the oven to its own devices. I could do work around the house without needing to worry about checking up on the oven, turning it off, and opening the door. The oven did all that for me.

Since those tests, I have made a lemon loaf cake, which took only 20 minutes at 320 degrees. Since I first tested it, I have also baked many chocolate cookies (which take only eight minutes) and multiple loaves of bread, which followed a similar story.

On top of the useful timer and pre-sets, the Ninja Combi takes less than a minute to get to the temperature. I think this is why I keep returning to the Combi, opting to use it instead of my main oven because it was quicker to get ready, speedy when cooking, and then easy to clean. I'm sure it worked wonders for my utilities too, since I was only heating one small space.

Test 7: toasting

If the Combi can toast a bagel, it covers the functions of almost all my countertop appliances (save for the coffee maker). I did a simple test, turning the Combi on to the toast setting and put my bagel underneath.

It did an impressive job. The top of my bagel was perfectly browned in just over two minutes, whilst the steamed side had stayed soft, but warm. Cutting into the bagel, I could see that it was still nice and doughy. Bagels can be tricky to get to the perfect texture but the Combi has it perfectly.

Cleaning, storage, and maintenance

Another reason I was reaching for the Combi so frequently was because it's just so easy to clean. All of the trays and air frying baskets are dishwasher safe, so I stacked them in my dishwasher drawer and set it running. Most of the mess that I made was contained within these, but the inside of the Combi was easy to reach into and wipe down when I wanted to do a deeper clean.

As I've mentioned, storage and size is probably the biggest factor that you'll need to consider before diving into a purchase. The Combi is big on the countertop, which is fine if you use it as often as your normal oven, but if you won't use it much, it might be a little tricky to store. You'll need big cupboards with high shelves to pack this away.

What do customer reviews say?

Most people had the same experiences as me: a quick heat-up, precision temperature control, and excellent results. I was surprised that people didn't mention the size, since I thought this would be a common criticism, but people seem to make it work on their countertops.

People praise it for its versatile functions, close to silent fans, and impressive taste and texture results. It's really as good as a larger oven, just shrunk down. I even joined this Ninja Combi community group on Facebook, which has twenty thousand users sharing recipes, pictures, and cooking tips. It's very inspiring!

It's difficult to find reasonable criticisms of the Ninja. Most three-star reviews on Amazon and Walmart are to do with third-party shipping rather than anything to do with the Combi. The only other complaint that I could see was cleaning. Whilst I found it easy to clean, lots of people didn't like having to wait to clean theirs. The hotplate stays warm for a while, so you need to wait for it to cool. It came up in multiple reviews, so it's obviously a concern, but you also can't clean a normal oven when it's hot, so this possibly shouldn't be made into a criticism of the Combi.

The only other word of warning that came from the reviews was that the Combi can get hot, especially on your countertop. If yours isn't a heatproof material, it's worth investing in some sort of trivet, like this heat-proof mat from Amazon.

How does it compare?

I've tested my fair share of the best toaster ovens and countertop ovens on the market, and the Combi is definitely one of the best.

Another good multicooker brand is Instant. They make some fantastic machines, namely the DuoCrisp which can match the Ninja Combi in air frying, rapid cooking, baking, simmering and non-toxic credentials (it is lined with stainless steel).

The Instant has some extra functions, such as pressure cooking and yogurt making. It is also more subtle on the counter, as it is smaller and easier to hide away in a cupboard. Whilst that might be the solution to your issues with the Combi, it's worth noting that the interior dimensions of the Instant Pot are a little less generous. I was able to roast vegetables and a chicken in the Combi, the process wouldn't work in the Instant Pot. Plus, I find the shape slightly more awkward for bakes.

Should you buy the Ninja Combi Multicooker?

If you need an energy-saving appliance to help you make speedy meals, roast dinners, toasted snacks, and help with all your baking extras, you're in good hands with the Ninja Combi. I'm always cooking in the kitchen, so this very quickly slotted in as my sidekick. I barely use my oven anymore. I don't quite know what I would do without it now.

If like me, you’re a frappé fanatic, ice cream obsessed, and crazy about all things cold, the Ninja Creami Deluxe will already be on your radar. Its predecessor took TikTok by storm, so the brand decided to release the Ninja Creami V2, more formally known as the Ninja Creami Deluxe.

When a brand makes this decision there are two routes that the product will follow. In some cases, the second model is a serious improvement, bettering the original in every way. In other instances, the innovative original is too hard to top, so the first model retains its place in the top spot and the second looks like a pointlessly expensive marketing ploy.

As someone who uses the original Creami every week, multiple times a week, I was eager to see what the Deluxe has to offer. Is it bigger and better than the best ice cream makers or just a bit of a disappointment? 

Specifications

Unboxing

I was really pleased with Ninja from the get-go. All of the packaging from the paper wrap to the cardboard box was completely recyclable. When you're buying a machine this big, I think that it's important that you can dispose of all the packaging sustainably. It's also helpful if a brand doesn't go over the top with cardboard boxes that are double the size and Ninja doesn't. Even though the Ninja Creami Deluxe is a big appliance, the box isn't any bigger than it needs to be.

Alongside the main body of the Creami, you'll get three 24 oz pint pots (50% bigger than the original Creami's 16 oz pots), which come with lids. You can buy more of these if you want to prep multiple flavors ahead, but three is a great place to start. Ninja also sends a recipe book with suggestions for a range of different frozen delights. You can get these online, but sometimes it's nice to flick through a book of options.

Who would it suit?

The Ninja is one of the most versatile ice cream makers you can buy. The Creami also works differently compared to most other ice cream makers. Traditionally, you freeze a bowl in your freezer overnight and then pour cooled ice cream mixtures into your bowl, which churns your liquid into ice cream. These are great, but they demand a lot of freezer space. The Ninja only requires you to freeze the 24 oz tubs. To make the ice cream, the machine sort of drills through your frozen dessert, churning it into a smooth mix in a matter of minutes. This is great if you want the ice cream-making part to be quick, but it's also really handy if you're short on freezer space.

The people who will get the most out of their Ninja Creami Deluxe are those who would use all eleven functions. If you are one of these people, you'll also like that the Creami Deluxe has larger tubs than all of Ninja's other ice cream makers. My three tubs covered dessert for seven people, three nights in a row, so there's more than enough capacity for a big family.

The other people that I would recommend the Ninja Creami Deluxe to is creative chefs or those with narrow dietary requirements. When you start substituting ingredients in traditional ice cream recipes, traditional churners will serve you up ice crystals, very cold mush, or nothing at all, because it's all stuck to the churning bowl. The Creami works through whatever you give it, so you'll never miss out on ingredients. 

I filled one tub up with chocolate soya milk and absolutely nothing else. The Creami turned this into a super smooth, vegan-friendly, gluten-free chocolate ice cream. I’m on a very niche low FODMAP diet at the moment, which makes ice cream a really difficult foodstuff to find, but with the Ninja Creami, I’ve been able to make my own recipes, tailored to my diet. Now, I’m not sure I’ll go back to the shops-bought stuff because I can make desserts that are just as good, but without all the additives (if you've read Ultra-Processed People, you'll know what I'm talking about).

What is it like to use?

What Ninja does well is the user experience. Everything about the Ninja Creami is intuitive and effortless. Obviously, you need to freeze your frozen desserts the day beforehand, but once you start getting in the habit of it, you'll always keep pots stocked up in the freezer.

The Creami Deluxe has a slightly different interface to the original model. The Ninja asks you to select what you’re making (ice cream, frozen yogurt, sorbet, etc) and how full your tub is (full, middle, or bottom). Once you’ve done this, you’ll get a time estimate for how long it will take to make your dessert. This ranges from two minutes to six minutes, all impressively speedy time frames.

Test 1: ice cream

The first test I put the Creami through is an obvious one: ice cream. I followed Ninja’s recipe for vanilla ice cream, which calls for cream cheese, heavy cream, whole milk, vanilla paste, and sugar. I whisked everything up and froze it for 24 hours before my test. 

I selected the ice cream setting and told the Ninja that I had a full 24 oz tub to work through. The front screen told me that my ice cream would be ready in just two minutes, which is super quick. 

Once the Ninja was running, I was incredibly grateful that this only takes two minutes because the Creami Deluxe is noisy. I measured the peak noise as 82 dB, which is like a loud vacuum cleaner. You'd need to shout to be heard over it, which is pretty antisocial, especially if you live in an apartment or are using the Creami in an open-plan kitchen. Make sure to promise people in your proximity some tasty ice cream and they might tolerate it.

When my two minutes was up, I twisted the lid off my tub and the ice cream looked like crumbs, not ice cream. As someone who already uses their Ninja weekly, I knew what to do, but I could imagine that first-time users might be a bit stumped by this result. Ninja says that this happens if your base has been frozen in a very cold freezer (mine is a deep chest freezer). You have to add a splash of whole milk and then run the re-spin setting through, which takes another two minutes.

After four minutes in total, the Creami had made the perfect vanilla ice cream. It was light, cold, crisp and smooth. There wasn’t any graininess or ice crystals. It was a proper success.

I tested out the mix-in function with some cookie dough balls (this required another two minutes of mixing) and the Ninja did a great job. The cookie dough was well distributed throughout the ice cream and each spoonful still had its lovely, smooth texture. I think some of my cookie dough balls were blended into the ice cream, so they didn't stay whole, but this only enhanced the overall flavor.

Test 2: frozen yoghurt

The next test is frozen yogurt. Most ice cream makers struggle to translate a whole tub of plain yogurt into a frozen dessert, you always lose some yogurt to the sides of the bowl where it freezes solid.

The Ninja Creami Deluxe takes a little longer to make frozen yogurt than it does to make ice cream. It's a four minute task which, compared to other ice cream makers, is still super quick. 

I tested both dairy yogurt and an almond-based strawberry yogurt. I didn't do any prep aside from emptying a tub of ice cream into the frozen pots. I left it overnight and then let the Ninja get to work.

Both frozen yogurts came out a little crumbly on top (Blame my freezer), but I pushed the frozen yogurt around with my spoon and within a few seconds, it had formed a nice, smooth texture. Again, this was scoopable and dense, even on my almond-based yogurt. I was really pleased with the flavor and texture of both of these. If you held an ice cream spoon to my throat and demanded to know which setting I liked the best, it would be this one.

Test 3: sorbet

The next test for our ice cream makers is sorbet. With a high fruit and water content, I expect some graininess, since it's almost an inevitability with lots of homemade sorbets. However, the Ninja smashed my expectations into pieces. Both my lemon and raspberry sorbets had a deliciously dense, gelato-style texture. 

Both 24-ounce tubs were licked clean in one sitting. For the raspberry sorbet, I tested out a no-sugar recipe, essentially just blending raspberries and then pouring them into the tub. I've seen people doing similar things with banana and pineapple on TikTok, so was keen to see whether the Deluxe could perform in person. 

My pure fruit sorbet was absolutely perfect. This is where I feel that the Ninja Creami Deluxe comes into its own. In a classic ice cream maker, my raspberry sorbet would have ended up as an ice block, stuck to the sides, made up of mostly shards. However, in my Creami, it was deliciously smooth and scoopable.

Test 4: vegan ice cream

Vegan ingredients can be notoriously difficult to work with, so I had prepared myself for some slightly grainy results. I followed Ninja’s recipe for chocolate ice cream, substituting all of the dairy for oat-based alternatives.

The chocolate ice cream was a true success. It needed a re-spin with a splash of oat milk before it was properly creamy and smooth, but this was objectively the best ice cream of all that I made. I know this because I set it on the table for dinner with six people, none of whom are vegan. I didn’t label it as the non-dairy alternative and it was polished off (even before the cookie dough ice cream). People couldn’t get enough of it and nobody would believe me when I told them that it was vegan. That’s when you know your vegan alternative is good.

Special functions

With eleven functions to work through, just three tubs, and some high demand for ice cream in my home, I'm having to work through all the different settings slowly, but surely. I'll keep updating you here on what I've tested, but the most recent success has been my no-sugar, vegan protein ice cream. I’ve seen lots of these on TikTok and wanted to know whether I could turn my post-gym shake into a sweet treat. 

For my post-lunch treat yesterday, I tested out my protein shake in the Ninja Creami. I froze my shake the day before, using a scoop Form Chocolate Vegan Protein Powder, a blended banana, and some almond milk. When I wanted my 'ice cream' I set the Ninja on lite ice cream mode, ended up with the crumbly mix, re-span it with a splash of almond milk, and then four minutes later tucked into the tub.

It tasted just like ice cream, just with a little bit of graininess. However, I can’t tell you how pleased I was. This is probably the healthiest tub of ice cream that I’ve eaten in a whole sitting. I’ve tried the same recipe in other ice cream makers with absolutely no success, so I was really pleased with what I had made here. 

Cleaning, storage, and maintenance

The only things that get messy in the Creami are the ice cream tubs, the blade, and the lid. All of these parts are dishwasher safe, so the clean-up couldn’t have been any easier. I actually washed the blade by hand, since I didn’t want it to fly around inside my dishwasher, because it’s weighty and sharp, so I was concerned that it might chip and slice at things that I wanted to keep pristine. 

Storage-wise, the Creami is undeniably huge. It’s really tall and big. I had to take a shelf out of my cupboards to fit it in. Actually, in the last five days that I've been testing it, I've wanted it out so often that I ended up just keeping it on the countertop. It’s quite bulky, so evaluate your countertop and storage options before investing in one. 

I should caveat this with just how popular the Ninja was with my family. After one night of testing, word got out to my friends and I was asked to bring the Ninja to a barbecue two days after my first round of tests. It’s not really that portable, but it’s so good that you’ll end up bringing it round to your friend's house as the guest of honor.

How does it rate online?

On Amazon, the Ninja Creami Deluxe boasts 4.5 stars out of 5. Customers all found this easy to use, enjoying the quick process and delicious results. As expected, I found lots of people who liked to experiment with less reliable ice cream recipes, one reviewer even just freezes bananas in his mixing bowl and blends them into an ice cream. If you don't want added sugar or thickening agents, this is a dreamy ice cream machine.

Aside from taste, texture, and speed, people loved the Ninja Creami Deluxe for how easy it was to clean. The novelty of quick, easy ice cream and an even quicker clean up just doesn't seem to get old. People love using the Ninja Creami Deluxe from start to finish. 

The few criticisms that I could find were exactly as expected. People thought that this was big and bulky on the countertop. Some even described it as 'scarily loud'. Even though this is only for a few minutes, it's something that you need to account for. I was surprised that it didn't bother my dog at all, especially since lots of people's pets struck up a bit of a hostile relationship with the Creami. This is a bit of a gamble that you'll have to take.

How does it compare?

I’ve been the devoted owner of the original Ninja Creami 7-in-1 ice cream maker for a year, so I was eager to check out what changes Ninja had made. The original model has a sorbet, ice cream, lite ice cream, milkshake, mix-in, gelato, and smoothie bowl function. Whilst the Deluxe doesn't have a smoothie bow program, it boasts all the same functions as the 7-in-1 on top of a frozen yogurt, creamiccino, frozen drink, slushi, and Italian ice function. If you enjoy a frozen drink, the Deluxe has you covered across the board. It also boasts a 24 oz container, which is 50% bigger than the original 16 ounce.

There are lots of other, small, but significant design features integrated into the Deluxe. It can process half a container at a time if you want a half-and-half ice cream or don't think you'll use a whole tub. Plus, the timer is useful for measuring how long your ice cream needs. 

Size-wise, neither are particularly compact. They're also both pretty loud. Although, I think the Deluxe is quieter than the original, there's very little in it. So, if you're on a budget and will only be making ice cream, go for the original 7-in-1, if you like gadgets that give you everything, the Deluxe is a better bet. If you don't like the idea of either Ninja Creami's style of ice cream making, you can check out our buying guide to the best ice cream makers, which has plenty of other options.

Should you buy it?

If you need capacity and versatility, the Ninja Creami Deluxe is an investment you won't regret. I had a tough time trying to decide whether I preferred the Deluxe's upgrades and, in truth, I do. I like the little extras, such as the timer, extra functions, and bigger bowls. However, if you're looking to save some money, buying the original is a super-savvy decision.

How we test

We are dedicated to how we test all of our appliances. All of our experts are well-established product testers, bringing with them the expertise needed to discern whether these are worthy investments for your home. 

For ice cream makers, we researched the best products on the market. We wanted to look for appliances that were good value for money with exceptional results. We took these to our test kitchen and, over the course of a few days, tested these on ice cream, non-dairy ice cream, sorbet, and frozen yogurt. We made notes on the whole process from unboxing to cleaning up to make sure that we didn’t miss a thing. All of these ice cream makers were tested alongside each other, so we could make direct comparisons between them and their results. 

The Ninja Speedi Rapid Cooker and Air Fryer combines the functionality of a pressure cooker with the crunchy, crisp finish of air frying. Powered by a 1760W fan and equipped with 10 pre-set modes, this multipurpose machine can cook all manner of foods.

Just 14 inches tall and 12 inches wide, the Ninja Speedi Rapid Cooker and Air Fryer is deceptively capacious. You could roast a whole chicken or bake a breakfast casserole in this thing. When you use the Speedi Meal function, you can make one-pot meals in minutes, and save time washing up, too.

I'm part of a product testing team here at H&G. Together, we've tried and tested some of the world's best air fryers. I put the Ninja Speedi Rapid Cooker and Air Fryer to the test in our dedicated test kitchen, cooking foods as diverse as salmon, rice, French fries, and bacon. I also documented the cleaning and unboxing processes to give you the fullest possible picture of what it might be like to use this product.

Ninja Speedi Rapid Cooker and Air Fryer

Ninja Speedi Rapid Cooker and Air Fryer Specifications

Unboxing the Ninja Speedi Rapid Cooker and Air Fryer

The Ninja Speedi Rapid Cooker and Air Fryer came double-wrapped in carboard boxes, presumably to protect against knocks and bumps in transit. As I opened the box, I was pleased there was no polystyrene, single-use plastic, or any sort of wasteful packaging. Instead, the components of the Ninja Speedi Rapid Cooker and Air Fryer were cushioned in cardboard, which was easy to remove and recycle. If you're on the hunt for a new cooker, and you're keen to shop sustainably, I'd encourage you to seek out one of the best Ninja air fryers, which are packaged in recyclable materials.

Inside the box, I also found a recipe guide and an illustrated instruction manual. I wouldn't throw these away, especially if you're new to air frying. A quick skim through the instruction manual told me everything I needed to know about where to position parts and accessories and which cook modes work best for which foods. In the recipe booklet, you'll find grocery lists and step-by-step instructions to make all manner of one-pot meals.

With the lid down, the Ninja Speedi Rapid Cooker and Air Fryer measures 14 inches tall and 12 inches wide. It's short enough to slot beneath standard kitchen cabinets, though it will crowd the counters in a smaller kitchen. The trouble starts when you lift the lid. At full stretch, the Ninja Speedi Rapid Cooker and Air Fryer measures 20 inches tall. The average gap between countertops and cabinets is 18 inches, so it's likely that you will not have enough room above your countertops. To make the most of the space you've got, you should pull your cooker all the way out before you use it, or else set your machine on your dining table or kitchen island.

The Ninja Speedi Rapid Cooker and Air Fryer features no fewer than 10 functions. You can use this thing to steam rice, sear steaks, bake cakes, and much more. What distinguishes this rapid cooker from other multifunctional machines is the Speedi Meal setting. You can insert your cooking pot at the same time as your crisper tray to cook your mains and your sides in the same pot, cutting down on cook time.

Test 1: Salmon teriyaki rice bowl

I tested the Ninja Speedi Rapid Cooker and Air Fryer alongside an electric kettle and a carpet cleaner over the course of a jam-packed morning in our test kitchen. With less than a half hour to go before we broke for lunch, I decided to test the Speedi Meal function and make a salmon teriyaki rice bowl. Steaming carbs and vegetables while grilling protein is a good test of a cooker's competency. Plus, this bowl might look similar to something you'd make for yourself as a mid-week meal. 

First, I emptied a packet of rice into my colander and rinsed it under the faucet until the water ran clear. This step isn't strictly necessary, but it should help to wash off excess starch so that the rice grains separate, instead of stick together. I poured the rice into the bottom of my cooking pot and used the back of a spoon to spread it evenly.

Next, I took a bag of mixed vegetables and shook out the contents, so that the peas, carrot and corn chunks landed on top of the rice. Then, I poured cups of vegetable stock into the cooking pot until the rice and vegetables were completely covered. I clicked the crisper plate into place, above the cooking pot, and got started on the salmon.

It took me years to find the optimal time and temperature to cook salmon. Too long and strong, and you'll dry the fish right out: too low and slow, and it won't cook all the way through. I wanted to see whether the Ninja Speedi Rapid Cooker and Air Fryer could strike the right balance. 

You might decide to marinate your meat or fish. I grabbed a packet from the store to make a fuss-free teriyaki sauce, but you could easily make your own with a little soy sauce, sugar, sake, and cornstarch. I used a basting brush to coat the salmon fillets in teriyaki sauce, honey, chilli and paprika and laid them on top of the crisper plate. I lowered the lid and set my meal to cook at 365°F for 10 minutes.

After all that, I'd forgotten to pre-heat. The Ninja Speedi Rapid Cooker and Air Fryer took around eight or nine minutes to heat up, so I used that time to clean the counters and lay the table. Once the Ninja Speedi Rapid Cooker and Air Fryer was up to temperature, it took less than 10 minutes to steam the rice and grill the salmon. I lifted the lid to find glistening salmon that was beginning to brown on top and around the sides, but was still nice and pink in the middle. Underneath was fluffy, fragrant rice that had absorbed all the flavors of the vegetables and stock. The other testers agreed that it was one of the best meals we'd ever made in the test kitchen.

Test 2: Rice

The above test of a complete meal was very impressive, but I wanted to see how it coped with steaming when there was nothing in the air fryer compartment, so I turned to some plain white rice. 

Again, I rinsed my rice until the water ran clear and poured it into the cooking pot. I filled three cups with water and added the liquid to the pot until it completely covered the rice. I selected the 'steam' function from the SmartSwitch menu and set the timer for 15 minutes. This time, there was no option to adjust the temperature: the Ninja Speedi Rapid Cooker and Air Fryer needs to steam at around 212°F.

Once my time was up, the machine beeped and alerted me to remove my rice. When I lifted the lid, I wasn't so sure. Each grain had a bit too much of a bite to it. Since I like my rice fluffy, rather than chewy, I decided to steam it for a few minutes' more. It was the right decision: the rice came out light and fluffy for the rest of the testers to enjoy.

Test 3: French fries

Once I'd got a good sense of the Ninja Speedi's steaming abilities, it was time to move onto the air fryer tests. I wanted to see how the machine coped with firmer produce and frozen textures. I took a bag of frozen French fries and shook a few servings' worth onto the crisper plate at the bottom of the cooking pot. 

I lowered the lid and selected the 'air fry' function. I like my fries nice and crispy, so I adjusted the temperature to 375°F, and set them to cook for 15 minutes. Usually, around the eight-minute mark, I'd open the air fryer basket and give the fries a good shake to promote even cooking. However, the Ninja Speedi Rapid Cooker and Air Fryer doesn't have a basket. Instead, I had to lift the lid, don an oven mitt, and pick up the pot to get a good look at my fries. Such are the perils of multipurpose design: the Ninja Speedi works perfectly as a rapid cooker, but leaves a little to be desired as an air fryer.

Plating proved a little tricky, too. You could lift the pot right out of the machine to pour out your fries, but you'd have to get a good grip on it. I ended up grabbing a spatula and using that to lift my fries from pot to plate. However, as soon as I bit down on my first fry, I knew it was worth it. Each fry was golden brown and beginning to crisp around the edges, yet light and fluffy in the center. I invited my fellow product testers to dig in and we ate the whole batch in a matter of minutes.

Test 4: Bacon

Following the Ninja Speedi Rapid Cooker and Air Fryer's triumphs with salmon, rice, vegetables, and French fries, I was feeling optimistic about the bacon test. I wanted to see how well the fat rendered and how quickly the meat cooked. 

I took five rashers of bacon and laid them on top of the crisper plate at the bottom of the cooking pot. I selected the 'air fry' function and set the meat to cook for eight minutes at 300°F. I like my bacon crispy, so I'd normally set the temperature a little higher. The other testers like it tender and juicy though, so 300°F was our compromise.

The Ninja Speedi Rapid Cooker and Air Fryer managed to please all three of us. The rind rendered beautifully into a golden-brown crisp, while the rest of the fat retained a little juice. The bacon test is the ultimate challenge for any air fryer, and the Ninja Speedi Rapid Cooker and Air Fryer passed it with flying colors.

Cleaning the Ninja Speedi Rapid Cooker and Air Fryer

While the Ninja Speedi cooking pot, crisp tray, and condensation collector are technically dishwasher-safe, I chose to wash each piece by hand in warm, soapy water. That way, I could get a good grip on the components and scrub away any stains from fat and oils. 

The only part of the Ninja Speedi Rapid Cooker and Air Fryer that isn't dishwasher-safe is the machine itself, which is still pretty easy to clean. All it needs is a quick wipe with a damp cloth to look as good as new.

How does the Ninja Speedi Rapid Cooker and Air Fryer rate online?

The Ninja Speedi Rapid Cooker and Air Fryer is one of Ninja's newer products, but it already boasts hundreds of five-star reviews, praising its quick cooking, versatility, and value for money. A few customers claim that this little cooker has made their full-sized oven obsolete. What few complaints there are tend to concern how much time it takes to preheat this 'rapid' cooker.

How does the Ninja Speedi Rapid Cooker and Air Fryer compare to other machines?

The Ninja Speedi Rapid Cooker and Air Fryer is one of the best kitchen appliances I've ever tested, but it won't suit everyone.

For one thing, it's not quite as revolutionary as the marketing might have you believe.  Cooking two meals in one appliance is very useful, but it's also true of some of Ninja's other air fryers, like the Ninja Foodi Flexbasket or the Ninja Foodi XL 2 Basket. However, those appliances can't cook rice. It's also not as versatile as the Instant Pot Duo Crisp with Ultimate Lid, but while we love that multicooker, you can't use multiple functions at the same time. 

Measuring 20 inches tall at full stretch, it might be too large for smaller kitchens. If you're working with limited counter space, I'd suggest something more compact, such as the Paris Rhône Air Fryer. This little machine can roast, bake, and broil with the best of them, though it couldn't feed a family.

Multifunctional machines might appeal to more ambitious cooks looking to expand their repertoire of recipes, but they might intimidate starter chefs who just want to fry food. The best basic air fryer is the Instant Essentials 4-Quart. It's not a smart machine, and it doesn't have the largest capacity, but it produced perfect French fries in our test kitchen.

If money's no object, and you want to cook with the world's best air fryer, then you should consider the Instant Vortex Plus. It cooks a little quicker and has more space than the Ninja Speedi Rapid Cooker and Air Fryer. At 17 inches tall, it's shorter, too, and better suited for use in smaller kitchens.

Should you buy the Ninja Speedi Rapid Cooker and Air Fryer?

The Ninja Speedi Rapid Cooker and Air Fryer retails for around $300 on the Ninja site, and more like $200 on sites such as Amazon and QVC. Don't get me wrong: that's a lot of money to spend on an air fryer, but it feels worth it to get such a multifunctional machine. If you're working with a smaller kitchen and lower cabinets, then I'd recommend clearing some room before you try to work with this machine. If you've got the space and cash to spare, then nothing should stop you from trying the Ninja Speedi Rapid Cooker and Air Fryer.

The Ninja Foodi FlexBasket Air Fryer combines the versatility of a dual-basket design with the capacity of a single-basket mega-zone. When you use the basket divider, you can cook diverse foods at different times and temperatures and press 'sync finish' for easy plating. When you remove the divider, you unlock additional cooking capacity to roast large cuts of protein or broil the top of your traybake. 

Powered by a 1690W fan, the Ninja Foodi FlexBasket Air Fryer works quickly and quietly to cut down on cooking time. This hard and fast approach delivers charred yet crunchy vegetables, but it's prone to overcooking carbohydrates and proteins. If you're keen to keep a little juice in your food, you might want to forgo the pre-set cooking modes and set your own times and temperatures. 

I'm part of a product testing team here at H&G. Together, we've tested some of the world's best air fryers, from large multicookers to more compact machines. I know my way around an air fryer and I can spot a flaw in design from a mile away. I tested the Ninja Foodi FlexBasket Air Fryer with nuggets, French fries, Mediterranean vegetables, and bacon rashers to assess how it cooks across common air fryer meals. I also documented the unboxing and cleaning processes to give you the fullest possible picture of what it might be like to use this product. 

Ninja Foodi FlexBasket Air Fryer 

Ninja Foodi FlexBasket Air Fryer Specifications

Unboxing the Ninja Foodi FlexBasket Air Fryer

The Ninja Foodi FlexBasket Air Fryer arrived double-wrapped in cardboard boxes to protect against knocks and bumps in transit. As I opened the box, I was pleased to see egg-crate cushioning and cardboard sleeves. Sustainable packaging makes such a difference, especially when you remember that each component of an air fryer arrives individually wrapped. When you buy one of the best Ninja air fryers, there's no need to worry about single-use plastic ending up in landfill: you can just throw your packaging straight into the recycling. 

Weighing a whopping 17 pounds, the Ninja Foodi FlexBasket Air Fryer proved pretty unwieldy. I struggled to lift it out of the box and onto the countertop, even once I'd caught hold of the handle. I always wish that such heavy appliances came in lift-off boxes, so I could simply lift the lid and push the air fryer from the base of the box straight onto the kitchen counter. If you suffer from arthritis or struggle with mobility issues, then you might want to ask a friend or family member to assist you with the unboxing process. 

Standing just 11 inches tall, the Ninja Foodi FlexBasket Air Fryer should easily slot beneath low cabinets. With that said, this machine measures 18 inches across, and might take up a lot of room on your kitchen counters, especially once you've set it five inches away from the wall. I wouldn't recommend this air fryer for use in smaller kitchens, unless you're prepared to sacrifice some space. 

A lot of the latest and greatest air fryers feature pre-set cooking modes for specific foods – a chicken or bacon setting, for example – with recommended cook times and temperatures. The Ninja Foodi FlexBasket Air Fryer features six pre-set modes for particular cooking processes, instead. You can set your machine to air broil or reheat, roast, bake, or fry, and use multiple modes simultaneously across the two baskets. There's even a dehydrate function, if you'd like to make your own dried fruit or beef jerky.

Test 1: Nuggets

Whenever I'm testing an air fryer, I like to start with a simple meal of nuggets and fries. It's not the most ambitious meal, nor the most nutritious, but it shows me exactly how an air fryer handles proteins versus carbohydrates. Plus, it might look similar to something you'd whip up for your kids on a busy weeknight. I inserted the basket divider and poured my nuggets into the left-hand side, which I set to cook on the 'air fry' mode for 15 minutes at 375°F. 

The nuggets were already beginning to brown and crisp at the edges around the eight-minute mark. I wondered whether I should intervene and switch off the air fryer before the clock ran out. Then again, I must have cooked pound after pound of frozen nuggets in air fryer tests, and I've seen the best results at this cook time and temperature. I decided to set my worries aside and let the air fryer finish. 

After 15 minutes, I removed my nuggets from the Ninja Foodi FlexBasket and served up lunch for my fellow product testers, Alex and Laura. We quickly observed that that the nuggets were overcooked: dry and cracked on the outside, with just a little juice in the center. If I were cooking them again, I'd eschew the 'air fry' setting and choose my own time and temperature.

Test 2: French fries

While my nuggets fried in the left-hand basket, I set French fries to sizzle on the right. I was keen to test the 'sync finish' function and see how the Ninja Foodi FlexBasket handled such different foods at the same time. 

I selected the 'air fry' setting and adjusted it slightly. I like my French fries crisp and crunchy, so I wanted them to cook at a slightly higher temperature for a little longer. I loaded my nuggets and fries into the air fryer at the same time and pressed 'start'. That's what I love most about the FlexBasket design: the convenience of making a whole meal in one pot. 

Around the halfway mark, I decided to check in and see how my fries were getting on. That's when I encountered the biggest problem with the FlexBasket design. The divider might create the impression of two baskets, but there's still only one handle. As soon as you open the drawer, you let out heat from both baskets, which disrupts coooking.

As I looked into the baskets, I could see that the fries were already golden brown, just eight minutes in. In order to avoid overcooking, I decided to shut off the right-hand basket a minute or two ahead of schedule and serve the French fries at the same time as the Quorn nuggets. They looked good in the bowl, but they tasted pretty dry. While we ate all the nuggets in a single sitting, it took us hours to finish the French fries, which didn't get any better as they began to cool. 

Test 3: Mediterranean vegetables

Following the disappointment of the nuggets and fries, I wasn't feeling too optimistic going into the Mediterranean vegetables test. I wasn't sure how the Ninja Foodi FlexBasket would handle tougher textures and slower cooking. 

First, I removed the basket divider to create a wide open space. I took a bag of frozen vegetables and poured chunks of eggplant, zucchini, and red and yellow peppers into the basket. In the absence of a specific pre-set, I cooked the vegetables at 370°F for 10 minutes. 

To my surprise, this was the Ninja Foodi FlexBasket Air Fryer's best effort. The vegetables came out charred around the edges yet juicy in the center. While these weren't the best air-fried vegetables I've ever tasted, they were far from the worst. 

As I plated up, I found another flaw in the FlexBasket design. The drawer is so deep and wide that it proved a little difficult to lift. With your average air fryer, you can simply slide out the basket and pour out the food. With the Ninja Foodi FlexBasket Air Fryer, I had to get a spoon to scoop the vegetable chunks onto my plate. 

Test 4: Bacon

For my final air fryer test, I like to lay a few strips of bacon at the bottom of each basket: since I was the only meat-eater in the test kitchen that day, I decided to stick with two rashers. In this test, I'm keen to see how well the fat renders and how quickly the meat cooks. In the hopes of getting nice, crunchy bacon, I set each basket to cook at 390°F for eight minutes.

The moral of that story: be careful what you wish for. The Ninja Foodi FlexBasket cooked the bacon to a crisp. The rasher in the right-hand basket was cooked so quickly and intensely that it began to blacken and curl up on itself. 

I didn't enjoy eating this bacon. It was so crunchy that it became crumbly. Again, if it had cooked at a slightly lower heat for a slightly shorter amount of time, this taste test could have gone very differently, but I was only following Ninja's instructions.

Cleaning the Ninja Foodi FlexBasket Air Fryer

While the Ninja Foodi FlexBasket Air Fryer basket and crisper-plate are technically dishwasher-safe, I prefer to wash each piece by hand in warm, soapy water. I find it easier to clean the nooks and crannies of the machine and protect the non-stick coating. As for the outside of the machine, all it should need is a quick wipe with a damp cloth to look as good as new.

How does the Ninja Foodi FlexBasket Air Fryer rate online?

The Ninja Foodi FlexBasket boasts thousands of five-star reviews online, praising its ease of use and ease of cleaning. A few reviewers note the width and depth of the machine and recommend that you clear some counter space before cooking. While most customers appreciate the basket divider for the versatility it offers, others argue that a fully-fledged dual basket design would have been more effective. I can see their point: as it stands, you can't check on one side of the machine without disturbing the other. 

How does the Ninja Foodi FlexBasket compare to other air fryers?

The Ninja Foodi FlexBasket Air Fryer is a quiet, quick cooker, but it isn't the most accurate. If you're looking for a fast air fryer that won't overwork itself, you should consider the Ninja Foodi 6-in-1 XL Dual Basket Air Fryer. You can broil, bake, roast and reheat at temperatures as high as 450°F. 

The Ninja Foodi FlexBasket would make a competent kitchen companion for busy cooks who are keen to save time on their regular recipes. If you prefer to experiment in the kitchen, you might get more use out of a multicooker. With the Instant Pot Duo Crisp with Ultimate Lid, you can sauté onions and prove sourdough, slow cook lamb and steam broccoli, all in one pot. 

Measuring more than a foot and a half wide, the Ninja Foodi Flex Basket might not fit in a smaller kitchen. For a cute and compact machine, look no further than the Ninja Max XL Air Fryer. Just 12 inches tall, it should easily slot beneath low countertops, but it's deceptively capacious, with enough room to make multiple servings of meals,

Should you buy the Ninja Foodi FlexBasket Air Fryer?

The Ninja Foodi FlexBasket Air Fryer retails for around $180 on Amazon, though it's regularly discounted. I'd hesitate to recommend it at full price. The pre-set modes are a little too long and too strong, which produced crisp carbs and dry protein on test, though the vegetables were still pretty juicy. Then, there's the size of the machine, which might crowd the counters in smaller kitchens. If you have some cash and space to spare, and you're happy to play around with the pre-sets, then you might get a lot of use out of the Ninja Foodi FlexBasket Air Fryer. Otherwise, I recommend going back to the drawing board and considering another of the best air fryers. 

Ninja's products have gone viral: the Creami took TikTok by a storm this summer and their air fryers are a kitchen staple. They've quickly established themselves as a household name for durable, affordable products offering everything from knives to slow cookers.

Ninja's ever-growing Foodi range aims to cover a range of culinary functions, so it's unsurprising that their appliances often end up competing with each other. If both the toaster oven and multicooker can air fry, why buy the air fryer? Our experts have put all the appliances to the test to find out which is best for which functions.

We've included lots of Ninja products in our buying guides including the best grills, air fryers, and slow cookers. When it comes to comparisons, we've got you covered. Here, we've put normal Ninjas against the Foodi range, helping you to find the best for your kitchen needs.

Foodi Flip Mini Oven vs Max XL Air Fryer

Winner: Ninja Foodi Flip Mini Oven

Praised for their compact footprint as well as perfect performance, these two Ninja appliances are designed with small spaces in mind. The Ninja Foodi Flip Mini Oven folds away when not in use, but looks sleek and stylish when it's out on the countertop. The Ninja Max XL is the best compact air fryer in our buying guide; it takes up minimal space, but still offers considerable capacity. 

The obvious difference between these two appliances is their primary function. The Ninja Foodi Flip Mini Oven is a toaster oven and the Max XL is an air fryer. The wide and low silhouette of the Mini Oven says it all: it is brilliant across a range of functions, but is particularly useful for pizza, toast, and flatter bakes. The Ninja Max XL is taller and deeper, perfect for quick, crispy cooking. 

If you look at the list of functions, these two appliances share a remarkable number of them: air fry, air roast, air broil, bake, dehydrate, and reheat. The Mini Oven has a 'toast' and 'bagel' function as extras and the Max XL has a 'Max Crisp' for ultra air-fried food. After our tests, we concluded that the Mini Oven is generally good, but not a specialist in any function. 

As you might expect, the air fryer is better at air frying and catering for a family, but was weaker when it came to baking and bread-oriented options. It also struggled with low and slow bakes and looked much bigger on the countertop than the low-slung Mini Oven.

Foodi 14-in-1 XL vs Foodi 6-in-1 Dual Basket

Winner: Ninja Foodi 6-in-1 Air Fryer

For busy households who are short on time, these two appliances are a dream come true. Both favorites amongst our experts, they cover a range of household needs, but in very different ways. It shouldn't be tough to choose the best one for you, because they're brilliant for almost opposite functions. 

The Ninja Foodi 14-in-1 XL was one of the most exciting slow cookers we tested. As you can tell from the name, it has an exhaustive range of functions packed into one, dishwasher safe appliance. It has a 8 quart capacity, so is big enough for batch bakes and big families. We tested it across a range of functions and particularly enjoyed the slower settings: steaming, pressure cooking, and baking (the cinnamon rolls were unreal). However, even when we made fries, we were impressed with the crispy, oil-free results. These took 21 minutes though: with the Ninja Foodi Air Fryer, we knew we could more than half the time.

With temperatures up to 450°F and incredible power, the Ninja Foodi 6-in-1 Air Fryer air fryer boasts not only an 8 quart capacity (the same as the slow cooker), but also a super speedy cooking time. This is the fastest air fryer we've tested, even on other settings, such as baking, roasting, and dehydrating. 

Aside from being an expert in all culinary creations, this has two zones for cooking in, as opposed to the slow cooker's single pot. You could put chicken and wedges in at once and the air fryer will ensure you have a synchronised finish and dinner will be ready at the perfect time.

The bottom line with both these appliances is that they're big, versatile, and incredibly useful. The air fryer is better overall, because it can cook two foods at once in much less time than the multicooker. However, if you'd prefer a slow cook and more of a range of functions, we loved the multicooker.

What are the other Ninja Foodi products?

You'll hear the name 'Ninja Foodi' being used for a range of products. Everything  from grills to soup makers and slow cookers is listed as a 'Foodi'. That's because it's the brand's name for their versatile cookware collection. The Foodi range is designed to give you more cooking options in the kitchen. The Foodi appliances tend to combine multiple functions in one, which is why you can find so many Ninja Foodi Air Fryers, which don't really look like a classic air fryer. There are plenty of other useful characteristics that Ninja include in all their Foodi range, such as non-stick coatings, ensuring easy cleaning as well as cooking.

FAQs

How we test

At Homes & Gardens, we are passionate about how we test our appliances. We take every product we recommend to our dedicated test kitchen. There, we put it through its paces, testing it on our standardized tests. We'll also explore any extra features that the machine offers, so that we can tell you if they're genuinely good or a bit of a gimmick. We make notes on other aspects too, so if a product is heavy to lift or too tall for wall cupboards, you'll know about it. If you're interested in finding out more, you can visit our general how we test and detailed how we test air fryers pages.

Final thoughts

It's hard to go wrong with Ninja appliances. They do an excellent job of balancing quality and price. As long as you carefully choose the right Ninja appliance for your home, you're unlikely to feel cheated out of your money. Everyone has their preferences, so it depends on your household needs as to which model is best for you. The Foodi appliances are only a fraction of what Ninja has to offer.

Once you've made your own pizza, you'll never go back to the store-bought stuff. With one of the best pizza ovens, you can make crispier crusts from the comfort of your own kitchen. 

Some of the best outdoor ovens cost more than a thousand dollars, which puts them out of reach of the average American. Enter the Ninja Woodfire Outdoor Oven. You don't need to pay for wood pellets of bottles of propane: this machine runs on mains electricity and reaches temperatures of 700°F in a matter of minutes. It doubles as a smoker, a roaster, and a baker, too, but I tested it as a pizza oven.

But I'm sorry to say this multifunctional machine can't meet the high standards set by the best pizza ovens. The Ninja Woodfire Outdoor Oven makes great pizza bases, but it struggles to dehydrate wet ingredients, such as tomato sauce and mozzarella, which are pretty integral to a good pizza. Since it runs on electricity, it can't quite replicate the depth of flavor you get from a real wood-burner or charcoal grill. Don't get me wrong, it was still infinitely better than a store-bought pie. But compared to the very best out there, it's not quite right. 

I put this machine through its paces right outside our dedicated test center. The Ninja Woodfire Outdoor Oven made decent pizzas, but ultimately failed to live up to the hype.  

Ninja Woodfire Outdoor Oven Specifications

Unboxing the Ninja Woodfire Outdoor Oven

The Ninja Woodfire Outdoor Oven comes in a large cardboard box, which lifts off at the top for easy removal. There was no reaching down and fumbling around in search of a handle. All I had to do was separate the sides of the box from the base and ease the oven onto my countertop. Such limited lifting is ideal for customers who struggle with heavy weights, as well as anyone who lives alone.

Inside the box, I found a fair amount of polystyrene, designed to protect the oven in transit. Ninja are normally champions of sustainable packaging, so it was disappointing to see so much waste, right off the bat. The polystyrene was tricky to remove, thanks to the strips of hidden tape keeping it in place, so I had to fetch my scissors to set the Outdoor Oven free. 

The Ninja Woodfire Outdoor Oven comes with a recipe inspiration guide and a user manual. I wouldn't throw these away, especially if you're new to outdoor cooking. Ninja offers tips and tricks for making thin crust and Neapolitan pizzas, as well as New York and pan pies. First-time grillers will appreciate Ninja's troubleshooting guide, which should help you solve common problems.

Measuring one foot tall, two feet deep, and weighing just over 30lbs, this pizza oven appears to be on the smaller side, but it boasts a deceptively large capacity. There's enough space to cook a 12-inch pizza, 9 lbs of pork shoulder, or even two large racks of ribs. 

If you like to take control in the kitchen, you might prefer this adjustable electric oven to an unpredictable charcoal grill or wood-burner. You can set the Ninja Woodfire Outdoor Oven to cook at a wide range of temperatures from 105 - 700°F. If you want to keep control, but you love the smokiness you get from a real grill, then you're in luck. You can add woodfire flavor to your food with just a half-cup of pellets, sold separately on the Ninja site. 

Speaking of cooking accessories: it's worth knowing that the Ninja Woodfire Outdoor Oven comes without an oven stand, an oven cover, a cast-iron pan, or even a pizza peel. I wasn't even sent a peel for testing purposes, so I had to make do with a baking tray. Ninja's Outdoor Oven might seem more affordable upfront, but the cost of those added extras soon stacks up. 

Test 1: Cheese Pizza

When I took the Ninja Woodfire Outdoor Oven to our test center, I was catering for a team of vegetarians. To meet their needs, and to test a classic, I decided to make a cheese pizza. 

As a pizza lover, I know that dough tastes best when it's made fresh. But I was pressed for time, with just a half hour to go until lunch, so I chose to make dough from the packet, instead. I poured my dough pellets into a bowl, added half a cup of water, and mixed until it reached my desired consistency: smooth and a little tacky to the touch. I floured my kitchen counter before kneading my dough and leaving it to prove for 15 minutes. 

I rolled my dough into a rough circle and added an even layer of store-bought pizza sauce. Next, I tore off chunks of cheese and sprinkled them across the base. I used mozzarella, but you could easily substitute that for your own favorite cheese. Finally, I transferred my pie from the kitchen counter onto my makeshift pizza peel. 

Meanwhile, the Ninja Woodfire Outdoor Oven was heating up. It took around 20 minutes to reach 700°F and beeped to let me know when it was ready to cook. Once the oven was up to temperature, I poured plenty of polenta onto my makeshift pizza peel to stop the dough from sticking, before launching my pie to the back of the oven. 

We tried this on the 'Artisan' setting, and it finished in two-and-a-half-minutes. The pie looked good, and tasted good, too: we ate the whole thing in a matter of minutes. The dough had puffed up under pressure to create that leopard-spotted look you get from the best wood-burners. But unfortunately, this electric oven couldn't quite replicate the same depth of smoky flavor. Since Ninja don't include wood wood pellets as standard, we couldn't dupe it, either. I can't emphasise enough that it was still delicious, but it's simply not on the same level as the other ovens out there.

Test 2: Vegetable Pizza

The Ninja Woodfire Outdoor Oven had performed pretty well so far, and I was feeling confident going into the second test. I wanted to see how the oven tackled tougher textures and frozen ingredients. My team was in the mood for more pizza, so I decided to make a second Neapolitan pie, covered with frozen peppers. 

I rolled out my second batch of dough and added a slightly thinner layer of sauce. The last pizza had been a little too wet, with mozzarella slipping off the slice, and I wanted to avoid the same mistake. I decorated with chunks of cheese and chopped up a few red and yellow peppers that I found in my freezer. 

Since the oven was already at temperature, I was able to start cooking straight away. I launched my pie to the back of the oven and waited. With a cook time of two and a half minutes, the Ninja Woodfire Outdoor Oven isn't as quick as some of the best pizza ovens on the market, but it's still pretty speedy.

As soon as the oven beeped, I removed my pie and shut the oven door behind me.As I cooked, I'd noticed that the sides of the machine were warm to the touch, and the oven was hot on top. 

As for the pizza, it tasted decent, if a little overdone in comparison to the first pie. That struck me as strange, since I'd used the same setting, and I'd removed my pizza before the fire started. Even though I'd used a thinner layer of sauce, this pie seemed even wetter than the first, with cheese and vegetables alike slipping right off the slice. 

The dough, however, had puffed up nicely and charred to perfection. It seems that the Ninja Woodfire Outdoor Oven struggles to dehydrate wetter ingredients, even at temperatures as high as 700°F. In pizza terms, that means crisp and crunchy bases, but sloppy sauces. It's not a problem you find in wood-fired or even gas ovens.

Cleaning the Ninja Woodfire Outdoor Oven

Like all pizza ovens, the Ninja Woodfire Outdoor Oven needs to cool before you clean it. Otherwise, you're putting yourself at risk of serious burns. I'd recommend letting this oven cool for a few hours after cooking before attempting to clean. Even then, it's best to wear a pair of heat-resistant gloves to guard against hot spots.

When it comes to cleaning electric ovens, you don't need much: just some cleaning spray and a scraper to dislodge the debris. You can pick up a cleaning brush and some antibacterial spray for less than $20 at Walmart. All you need to do is wipe down the pizza stone and lay it out to dry for a day or two before using it again. 

How does it rate online?

The Woodfire Outdoor Oven has dozens of five-star ratings on the Ninja site, praising its versatility and value for money. You can find more balanced reviews when you shop on Amazon. A few customers have noted lengthy cooking and heating times, as well as a faulty smoker function. 

Some of the more negative reviews bemoan the absence of an oven stand, an oven cover, and a pizza peel, which are not included with the initial purchase. To be fair to Ninja, there's an option to shop for additional cooking accessories on the Ninja site. However, many of the best pizza ovens come with peels and pellets included.  A peel is an essential to use an oven like this. You wouldn't expect an air fryer to show up without its basket. 

How does it compare to other pizza ovens?

The Ninja Woodfire Outdoor Oven is affordable, and makes decent pies, but it cooks too inconsistently to meet the standard of the best pizza ovens. If you love pizza, and you're looking to splurge on the best oven, look no further than the Ooni Karu 16. It comes with a built-in digital thermometer to monitor internal temperatures, which is the key to consistent cooking. The Ooni Karu 16 seriously impressed on test, and made some of the best Neapolitan pizza our expert has ever tried. 

For the everyday pizza lover, I recommend the Solo Stove Pi. It's budget- and beginner-friendly, with a quick cook time of two minutes per pie. Just bear in mind that it runs on a very particular type of wood pellets. 

Should I buy the Ninja Woodfire Outdoor Oven?

The Ninja Woodfire Outdoor Oven retails for around $400. When you consider that you're getting a roaster, a smoker, a broiler, and a baker, as well as a pizza oven, it seems like pretty good value for money. But you've bought the oven stand, the oven cover, and the pizza peel, as well as any added extras, the initial price skyrockets. 

Unfortunately, this multifunctional machine seems to be a jack of all trades and master of none. The Ninja Woodfire Outdoor Oven makes decent pizzas, but they're nothing special, and they can't compare to the pies you could make in one of the best pizza ovens. 

About this review − and our reviewer

Emilia is one of our eCommerce Editors here at H&G. She spends her days trialling and testing some of the best indoor and outdoor appliances on the market. She loves nothing more than outdoor entertaining, and she tested the Ninja Woodfire Outdoor Oven right outside our dedicated test center. She put the machine through its paces before sending it back to Ninja, who kindly lent it to her for this review.

I was very far from convinced when we first called this in. Portable blenders have always struck me as gimmicks; I could never see a situation where I'd need to blend a green smoothie while on the go. Even on the commute or while working out, I didn't see the benefit. The point of smoothies is to have fresh ingredients, so mixing a smoothie in my local gym did not appeal...

However, when I put the Ninja Blast to the test, I found a good personal blender in its own right. It did a great job with berries, leafy greens, protein and creatine powders. It's remarkably good at crushing ice for a blender of this size, and I used it at home for a delicious slushie. It lived up to our commute test, and it has lots of excellent safety features.

It's certainly not perfect – the Blast struggles with larger chunks of frozen ingredients like mango or papaya, and it can't blend seeds like one of the best blenders for your countertop.

Product specifications

Who would it suit?

I think it's good for single people needing their own blender or for small households. For example, my partner doesn't really like smoothies, so there's no need for us to have a 72oz monster blender taking up room in storage. I can just have one of these for blending for myself. I think it's also great if you're on a health kick and don't need a full size blender around all the time. It's good for smoothies and mixing up protein and creatine.

Unboxing

Setting this up was pretty easy. The box includes a sip lid with a carry handle, a blending motor, a pitcher, pitcher cap, and blade cover, as well as a USB-C charging cord. The instructions tell you to charge it for 2 hours before you begin; which is something to bear in mind if you were expecting to blend straight away.

Once you're charged, it's very easy to use. There are handy instructions that tell you the order you need to add all your ingredients to the blender for the smoothest results, as well as a minimum liquid line to make sure you add enough for the blender to work.

There's also a guide to the LED lights around the start/stop button. Purple means you're good to go, red means you need to charge, and orange means the blades are blocked. It's simple and effective.

Test 1: Protein shakes

I love this test because I designed it to catch blenders out. With every blender, we make a mix of frozen berries, spinach, protein powder, creatine, and ice, topped with almond milk.

We try this combination because these ingredients are as tricky as it gets for a blender, all in one. Frozen berries can be tough, especially the skins and seeds, and it's the same story with spinach. Protein powder and creatine are a good test for two reasons. The first is that they're the precise use case for a blender like this. It's clearly designed for taking to the gym or work to help you meet your macros. The second is that powders like these are notoriously difficult for blenders of all sizes, because they can easily clump or make the smoothie taste gritty.

This blender did a remarkably good job for its size. There were tiny but noticeable scraps of berry skin and spinach, but you wouldn't notice them unless you were looking for them. It was less good on protein powder, with a little grittiness. However, we trialled in on a single 30-second blend programme. If you ran it again I think it would probably handle it well. It's only really for protein, too - when I've since used it on creatine alone it did a fantastic job. Even better, it easily handled the ice, too.

I think it's probably about as loud as an electric toothbrush. I don't think you could do this at your desk while people are working, but you could probably get away with it in an office kitchen.

Test 2: Hummus

Sure, this is a little challenging for a blender of this size, but we have to be consistent. We test all our blenders on this, as it shows how they handle thicker ingredients. All we use is a can of garbanzo beans, a clove of garlic, a splash of olive oil and a little lemon. The process was far from perfect. We had to shake it around a lot and it was stuck a couple of times.

However, it made a pretty passable hummus. It wasn't the greatest I've ever made, as it was a little grainy, but it was definitely servable with crudités. If you want a homemade dip, this blender will just about manage it.

Test 3: Ice

Ice is the cornerstone of a good blender. Crushing ice is a summer essential, and if you can't make a frozen margarita in a blender you should stay well away.

Seeing as I was testing this on the clock, I didn't make anything alcoholic, but I did make a delicious lemonade slushie. I'm amazed at how good this is on ice for a blender of this size. Other portable blenders - specifically, the Nutribullet GO, will just rattle ice around and be unable to crush it. I filled this to the max fill line with ice and the minimum fill line with lemonade to really test it, and it more than met the mark. It made a delicious, ice-cold slush that's the perfect drink for summer.

Test 4: the commute

A portable blender is only useful if it's actually portable. That why we always take them into work with us on a busy commute. I made the purplest, biggest stain-risk smoothie possible before removing it from the blade base and screwing on the travel lid. This did not feel great – the thread on the travel lid is pretty shallow and while it screwed on very securely, I had the ominous feeling that it was going to burst open on the subway. I tucked this in next to my work laptop (don't tell our IT guys) and took it to work. It was perfectly fine. I had the smoothie mid-morning and it was a great way to up my fruit intake. However, while it easily fit into my backpack, at 10 inches it might not work for some handbags.

Cleaning

Cleaning this is really easy. You can add a dash of dish soap and some warm water into the blender and run a blending cycle, and it will take care of a lot of the cleaning. It's not perfect – it left some big daubs of hummus up the inside, but it removed a lot of smoothie leftovers. There's a spot on the blender motor that traps some of whatever you're blending, but it's easy enough to remove with a long-handle brush.

Safety features

Best of all, I loved the safety features included. I'm the sort of person to leave things out on the drying rack for a while, which meant the blender pitcher wasn't attached. I've had more than enough little cuts in my years testing blenders and food processors and the sight of the motor housing with the blades out briefly worried me until I remembered the plastic blade covering. You just screw it on the same as you do with the pitcher and the whole unit is safe, even if you turn it on.

How does it compare?

BlendJet is famous for portable blenders; the BlendJet 2 vs Ninja Blast matchup is a fair one. Both are portable, USB-C rechargeable, and great for on-the-go smoothies.

We've tested the BlendJet 2 vs Ninja Blast and found some key differences. The Blast is more powerful and handles frozen ingredients better, making it the better pick for thicker blends or icy drinks. It’s a bit bulkier and pricier, but the performance upgrade is noticeable.

The BlendJet 2, on the other hand, is lighter, quieter, and cheaper. It fits neatly in a handbag and is nice for softer ingredients or protein shakes. It’s very affordable (especially when it’s on sale), but the trade-off is that it feels a bit flimsier than the Ninja.

If you're looking for something in between, the Nutribullet Portable blender might hit that sweet spot. Again, it's slightly smaller and lighter than the Ninja Blast but not quite as powerful. I liked the drinking spout and that it's dishwasher-safe. It offers a nice balance for casual use.

And if you like the style of the Ninja Blast but wish it came in a larger size – good news! Ninja recently released the Blast Max, and it’s a serious upgrade in both size and style. It’s sleek, powerful, and designed to handle just about anything you throw in it.

Should you buy the Ninja Blast?

Yes, I think you should, but with some caveats. If you already have a blender you like, don't bother. I'm still not entirely convinced that there's any real reason to blend on the go, and you can make drinks to take with you in a bullet blender like a Nutribullet 900, so this blender isn't unique.

However, if you're in a small home, I've found this is a great option. 18oz is a lot of smoothie, and since there's only my partner and I in our apartment, I've found this makes enough for two. There's no need for us to get some behemoth that will dominate our space - one of these is good enough (see the above picture for comparison).

I also think it's a good choice if you just want to be a little healthier. I've definitely felt better for having this around. It makes for a fast, efficient way to improve your fruit and fiber intake.

When it comes to air fryers, two names dominate the conversation: it's Ninja vs Instant. Both brands are known for their innovative designs and crispy cooking capabilities, but which one deserves a spot in your kitchen?

As a trained cook and product tester, I've tested the best air fryers from both ranges, comparing their cooking performance, design, and value for money. Whether you’re looking for the ultimate multitasker, a mini machine for a small kitchen, or simply the best bang for your buck, we’ve got the answers to help you make an informed choice.

The headlines are: Instant makes the best value air fryers, but Ninja has the edge overall, with space-saving designs, reliable cooking performances, and a wide range of non-toxic air fryer options. I've compared the top models from both ranges, so I'll take you through the nitty-gritty comparison details below.

Ninja vs. Instant: Best small air fryer

Winner: Ninja Air Fryer Pro 4-in-1

If you’re short on space but still want quick air-fried food, there are plenty of compact options to choose from. Ninja and Instant are, of course, two of the best.

The Ninja Pro is the best air fryer we've ever tested in 2025 so far, with four simple but fantastic functions. The Instant Essentials is much more basic, with a singular 'air fry' function and not much else to offer. It has slightly less capacity, but can slide into small corners and it crisps up food very quickly.

Both Ninja and Instant's smallest air fryers will create enough food for couples or small families. On balance, the Ninja Pro has a better performance and more versatility, but the Instant could be a better choice if you're really tight on space and budget. Here's everything you need to know to decide which petite powerhouse you want to feature on your countertops.

Ninja vs. Instant: Best dual drawer air fryer

Winner: Ninja Double Stack

Both the Ninja Double Stack and Instant Vortex Dual Plus are top-tier dual-drawer air fryers, but the Ninja edges ahead with its larger capacity, sleek and ergonomic design, and impressive speed. While it lacks a viewing window, checking food is easy, as it heats almost instantly.

When it first came out in 2022, we rated the Instant Vortex Dual Plus 'five stars' for its ease of use, crispy results, and odor control. It's a strong rival, but has a bulkier design, smaller capacity, and slower performance. That's why many of our expert testers (myself included) own the space-saving Ninja Double Stack.

Ninja vs. Instant: Best non-toxic air fryer

Winner: Ninja Combi

If you're searching for the best non-toxic air fryer, both Ninja and Instant brands offer strong contenders. Models from both ranges have made it into our buying guide; Ninja actually has two models dominating our charts.

When it comes to the question of 'Ninja vs Instant', there is little between them in this arena. Ninja offers more variety in their range of non-toxic air fryers – with smaller, large and multi-functional models to choose from. The Ninja Air Fryer Pro, Ninja Crispi, and the Ninja Combi all use nano-ceramic coatings, which are PFAS-free and very easy to clean.

On the other hand, Instant has just one non-toxic air fryer, but it's a great one. The Instant Pot Duo Crisp uses high-quality stainless steel – which is a lovely, durable material, but it does require a tad more TLC.

Ninja vs. Instant: Best multicooker air fryer

Winner: Instant Pot Duo Crisp with Ultimate Lid

Much more versatile than air fryers, multicookers can cover a lot of functions. There's no guarantee that they'll air fry, nor is there any guarantee that they will air fry well, but both the Ninja and the Instant are experts across the board. In fact, we loved the Instant Multicooker so much that it's above lots of single-function air fryers in our estimation.

FAQs

Final thoughts on Ninja vs Instant

Instant tends to offer the cheaper option, but Ninja wins for design, ease of use, and cooking performance.

For those short on space, the Ninja Pro offers the best small air fryer that money can buy. But if you're on a budget, you'll prefer the basic Instant Essentials. If you're looking for dual drawer capacity, the Ninja DoubleStack is the best design we tested. And if you're looking for ceramic-coated options, Ninja has the better offering, with multiple non-toxic options to choose from.

However, if you're interested in a multicooker, the Instant Pot Duo Crisp is the best all-singing, all-dancing air fryer and slow cooker. Best known for making the iconic Instant Pot, it's no surprise that multi-functionality is still the brand's bread and butter.

Although Ninja takes the overall prize, you won't go wrong with any of these models in this guide. They are all excellent air fryers that promise crispy, quick food.

How we test the best air fryers

To test the best air fryers on the market, I focus on exceptional cooking performance. As a trained cook and kitchen appliances editor, I rigorously test each model by air-frying frozen French fries, chicken wings, and roasted vegetables. During our taste tests, we seek food that’s perfectly crispy on the outside and tender within. Our team has already tested the market leaders, so we know the industry benchmarks.

Ease of use is the best part of air frying, so my tests also evaluate the intuitiveness of the controls, basket design, instruction booklet and the accuracy of recipe presets. I also make sure to explore any special features, like grilling and dehydrating, to assess the versatility. While I'm cooking, I make notes on capacity – essential knowledge if you're looking for a family-sized air fryer.

Cleaning up can be a hassle, so I check if the removable parts are easy to wash, whether by hand or in the dishwasher. I also examine for non-toxic materials and durability. After testing, I scour the web for the best and worst customer reviews to assess the air fryer's reliability and overall customer satisfaction.

Finally, when you're making a kitchen investment, price really matters, so we weighed up the grill's features and performance to see if it offers good value for money. Ultimately, our goal is to ensure you choose an air fryer that looks stylish in your kitchen, as well as being reliable, efficient, and a joy to use.

In the battle for the best air fryer on the market there is one comparison drawn over and over again: Ninja vs Cosori. Both brands make a range of high-quality, smart air fryers and countertop ovens. These cater to a range of households, but which is better?

Our team of experts have reviewed nearly every Ninja on the market. We've also tested our fair share of Cosoris too, so if you want the experts' verdicts on which you should buy, you're in the right place.

We've compared their best air fryers and countertop ovens. So, if you're trying to narrow down the best air fryers on the market, we've done all the hard work done for you.

What's the difference between Ninja and Cosori?

Ninja is best for big families: Ninja air fryers stand out for their dual-zone cooking technology. The Ninja Foodi and Ninja Double Stack are great for preparing two dishes simultaneously with separate temperature controls. This makes them ideal for big families who need to feed a crowd. Their smaller air fryers (starting at 2 quarts) are often round baskets, which are not super space-efficient.

Ninja also offer models with ceramic-coated air fryer baskets, which are celebrated for being non-toxic. You can read our guide to the best non-toxic air fryers, here.

Cosori is better for couples or smaller families who like smart tech: Cosori, on the other hand, is best known for the powerful, but affordable TurboBlaze range. They are medium size, with square baskets that maximize cooking space. We loved this brand for crispier food at a lower price point. Cosori air fryers can also integrate with smart-home devices like Alexa and Google Assistant for added convenience, so if that's your thing, you'll prefer this brand.

Both Ninja and Cosori are offering some 'limited-time deals' for the holiday season. I've listed the best bargains below – you'll find more comparison points between each model further down the page.

Ninja Dual vs Cosori Blaze II

Winner: Ninja

Busy households will appreciate air fryers that can do it all. The Ninja Foodi 6-in-1 Dual Basket air fryer can cook two separate meals at the same time. They can sync finish, meaning you can make hasty, tasty food. The Cosori is also great, and we love the smart functionality, but the Ninja holds more food, cooks faster, quieter, and costs less.

We've put their specifications against each other in a table, but that doesn't tell the full story, so if you want to know more about their functions, there's more information further down.

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Ninja Max XL vs Cosori Lite

Winner: Ninja

If you're short on space, you can still own an excellent air fryer. Our favorite brand of the two is Ninja. The ironically-named Ninja Max XL is great for smaller spaces because it takes up surprisingly little space for a 5.5 quart air fryer. It's very fast, non-toxic, and simply makes better food than the Cosori. However, the Cosori is slightly smaller, quieter, and easier to use. Both Ninja and Cosori make top-quality, compact appliances. If you need to choose between the two, here's everything you need to know.

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Ninja Foodi Flip vs Cosori Smart Oven

Winner: Cosori

Toaster ovens are brilliant compact options if you're looking for an appliance that can do more than just air fry. They tend to demand more space on the countertop, but if you'll use every function, toaster ovens are excellent, hard-working appliances. We think Cosori wins here. It's very straightforward; their toaster oven can do everything Ninja's can, but much more besides, with room for a small chicken that the Ninja can't match.

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Black Friday shopping advice

Watch for Bundles: Retailers often bundle air fryers with accessories, like baking pans and skewer racks, which can increase the value for both Ninja and Cosori models.

Look for Price Drops on Last Year’s Models: While the latest models like the Ninja DZ550 and Cosori TurboBlaze may be discounted, older models often receive even steeper price cuts without sacrificing much in performance​cookindocs.com​Hunker.

Compare Dual-Zone vs. Single-Zone: Dual-zone air fryers like the Ninja Foodi are popular but can be pricier. If you don't need this feature, consider single-basket models to save money.

Shop Early: Inventory for high-demand items like air fryers can sell out quickly during Black Friday, so monitor deals early and be ready to purchase

FAQs

Final thoughts

You can't go wrong with a Ninja or Cosori appliance: we like them both for different reasons. If we had to choose the best for families, the Ninja Foodi and its DualZone technology would win the battle. For a compact option, the Ninja XL, even though it's a little bigger, is more consistent and competent than the Cosori. However, with the toaster ovens, Cosori has a more diverse offering and it can cook a rotisserie chicken. That's a deal breaker for most people.

If you’re searching for the best Ninja air fryer, you're in good company. The brand has become globally famous for air frying, offering everything from compact models to ultra-large, dual-zone, and multifunctional options. They’re sleek, fast, and stylish, and the best Ninja air fryers continue to push the envelope with bigger and better designs.

After testing countless of the best air fryers, Ninja is the only brand I keep in my own kitchen. The Ninja Crispi is my personal favorite – it saves space and uses clean glass materials – and I’m also a fan of the Ninja Pro, the best non-toxic air fryer with a ceramic coating.

That said, not every Ninja air fryer has passed my rigorous tests with flying colors. As a trained cook, I have high standards – even for basics like fries and nuggets – because the right air fryer makes all the difference in achieving effortless, perfectly crispy results. After hours of hands-on testing, I’ve put together a definitive guide to the best Ninja air fryers. Here’s my expert breakdown of which ones are worth your investment.

The Hot List

If you're looking for the headlines, here's a quick list of the best Ninja air fryers on the market. You'll find more details on the pros, cons, and how to choose the right model for you further down the page.

Best Ninja air fryer overall