Introduction
We explore the Ninja Specialty Coffee Maker: is this a versatile and innovative brewing system? Is it good enough for coffee lovers seeking a high-quality, customizable experience at home? With options ranging from classic drip coffee to rich espresso-style drinks and frothy specialty beverages, it offers multiple brew sizes and strength settings to suit any preference. Featuring a built-in frother and user-friendly controls, does the Ninja Specialty Coffee Maker deliver decent quality results with ease and convenience? Let’s find out as we reveal all in this comprehensive Review.
Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model | Ninja Specialty Coffee Maker |
| Brew Types | Classic, Rich, Over Ice, Specialty |
| Brew Sizes | Cup, XL Cup, Travel Mug, XL Multi-Serve, Half Carafe, Full Carafe |
| Carafe Type | Glass Carafe or Thermal Carafe (model dependent) |
| Water Reservoir Capacity | 50 ounces (1.48 liters) |
| Built-in Frother | Yes |
| Auto-IQ One-Touch Intelligence | Yes |
| Programmable Delay Brew | Yes |
| Permanent Filter | Yes |
| Fold-Away Frother | Yes |
| Dimensions | 12″ x 8.8″ x 15″ (H x W x D) |
| Weight | 10.1 lbs (4.58 kg) |
| Wattage | 1550 watts |
| Material | Plastic, Stainless Steel |
| Color Options | Black with Stainless Steel Accents |
| Warranty | 1-year limited warranty |
| Best place to Buy | Buy on Amazon |
Build Quality
High-grade, BPA-free plastic forms the main body and various components, providing a lightweight yet sturdy structure that can withstand the rigors of daily use. This plastic is heat-resistant and designed to ensure safety and longevity.
Stainless steel is another key material used in the construction of the Ninja Specialty Coffee Maker. It is utilized in parts such as the carafe handle, heating plate, and certain internal components.
The interface buttons are well placed and have a design which offers good responsive when handled.
Key Features of the Ninja Specialty Coffee Maker
Versatile Brew Styles
The Ninja Specialty Coffee Maker offers four unique brew styles to cater to your coffee preferences:
- Classic: A balanced, traditional brew.
- Rich: A stronger, more robust flavor.
- Over Ice: Brew directly over ice for a refreshing iced coffee that remains flavorful and undiluted.
- Specialty Brew: Create a super-rich coffee concentrate perfect for specialty drinks like lattes, macchiatos, and cappuccinos.
Multiple Brew Sizes
Enjoy the flexibility to brew in six different sizes:
- Cup
- XL Cup
- Travel Mug
- Multi-Serve Travel Mug
- Half Carafe
- Full Carafe This feature allows you to prepare the perfect amount of coffee, whether you’re brewing for yourself or a group.
No Pods Required
Use your favorite coffee grounds to brew single-serve or full carafe coffee, eliminating the need for disposable or reusable pods. This not only reduces waste but also allows for greater customization of your brew.
Built-In, Fold-Away Frother
Transform hot or cold milk or milk alternatives into silky-smooth froth with the built-in frother, perfect for creating café-style beverages. The frother conveniently folds away when not in use and is removable for easy cleaning.
Removable Water Reservoir
The 40-ounce removable water reservoir can be easily detached and carried to your sink for convenient filling, reducing spills and simplifying the brewing process.
Easy to Clean
Many components of the Ninja Specialty Coffee Maker are top-rack dishwasher safe, including the glass carafe, brew-through lid, permanent filter, removable filter holder, water reservoir, flip-top lid, frother whisk, and scoop. This feature ensures that cleaning is hassle-free and efficient.
Automatic Shutoff
For safety and energy efficiency, the coffee maker automatically powers off after one hour of inactivity, providing peace of mind and conserving energy.
Included Accessories
The coffee maker comes with essential accessories, including a 50-ounce (10-cup) glass carafe, fold-away frother, permanent filter, 40-ounce removable water reservoir, and the Ninja Smart Scoop, ensuring you have everything you need to start brewing immediately.
The Ninja Specialty Coffee Maker combines versatility, convenience, and high-quality brewing capabilities, making it an ideal choice for coffee enthusiasts who want to enjoy a variety of coffeehouse-style beverages at home.
How do users rate this machine?
User Experiences with the Ninja Specialty Coffee Maker
Versatility and Functionality Users appreciate the Ninja Specialty Coffee Maker’s versatility, with many noting the convenience of brewing different sizes and styles of coffee. The ability to make single serves without using pods was a major draw, especially for those transitioning from pod-based machines like the Nespresso Vertuo. Despite the extra effort of scooping coffee grounds, users found the flip-down holder for single servings and the variety of cup sizes—from single cup to full carafe—extremely practical.
Quality and Taste The quality of the coffee is highly praised, with users noting that good coffee grounds result in an excellent brew. Many have likened the taste to what you might find in Italian hotels and cafes, particularly when using brands like LaVazza. The machine’s ability to brew hot, rich coffee consistently impressed users, and the specialty brew option for making lattes and cappuccinos was well-received.
Design and Build The Ninja Specialty Coffee Maker’s design and build quality are also appreciated. Users described it as solidly made and visually appealing, with a retro look that fits nicely on countertops. The removable water reservoir and fold-away frother were highlighted as particularly useful features. Some users mentioned the machine’s ease of use, intuitive controls, and convenient cleaning processes, with most parts being dishwasher safe.
Durability and Longevity Many users reported using the Ninja Specialty Coffee Maker daily for over two years without significant issues. However, some did experience problems after extended use, such as persistent dripping or water backing up in the drip basket. Regular maintenance, including cleaning cycles with vinegar, helped maintain performance, although a few users encountered durability concerns over time.
Specific Issues and Feedback A few users mentioned minor issues like scratches on the burner plate and adhesive residue on the frother arm panel. Despite these drawbacks, the overall sentiment remained positive, with users appreciating the machine’s functionality and the quality of coffee it produces.
Overall Satisfaction Overall, users highly recommend the Ninja Specialty Coffee Maker for its ease of use, versatility, and the quality of coffee it brews. The machine’s design, functionality, and ability to cater to different coffee preferences make it a favorite among many, despite some minor issues encountered over long-term use.
Who is this machine best for?
As you’ll see below, the Ninja Specialty Coffee Maker is a versatile machine. It’s best suited for the following groups of people:
Coffee Enthusiasts
Those who appreciate a variety of coffee beverages will find the Ninja Specialty Coffee Maker particularly appealing. It offers multiple brew styles, including Classic, Rich, Over Ice, and Specialty Brew, allowing users to enjoy everything from a simple cup of coffee to a rich espresso-style drink.
Households with Multiple Coffee Drinkers
Families or households with different coffee preferences and needs will benefit from the machine’s ability to brew different sizes, from a single cup to a full carafe. This versatility makes it easy to cater to everyone’s coffee habits without the need for multiple machines.
Busy Professionals
Individuals who need a quick and efficient coffee maker to fit their busy schedules will appreciate the Ninja’s ease of use and fast brewing capabilities. The machine’s ability to make single-serve coffee without pods and its programmable delay brew function are particularly useful for those on the go.
Home Baristas
People who enjoy experimenting with their coffee will love the specialty brew option, which allows for the creation of café-style drinks like lattes and cappuccinos. The built-in frother is perfect for those who want to add a professional touch to their homemade coffee.
Environmentally Conscious Consumers
Those who are looking to reduce waste will appreciate that the Ninja Specialty Coffee Maker does not require disposable pods. Using ground coffee instead of pods is a more sustainable choice and offers greater flexibility in coffee selection.
Small Office Settings
The machine’s ability to brew multiple sizes makes it ideal for small office environments where employees might have different coffee needs. Its robust build and reliable performance can handle frequent use, making it a practical choice for a communal coffee machine.
People Seeking Value for Money
Consumers who want a high-quality coffee maker at an attractive price point will find the Ninja Specialty Coffee Maker a great investment. It combines numerous features and brewing options usually found in more expensive machines, offering excellent value.
Design-Conscious Users
Individuals who value both form and function will appreciate the Ninja Specialty Coffee Maker’s sleek, retro design. It not only performs well but also looks good on the countertop, adding aesthetic value to the kitchen or coffee bar.
People with Limited Counter Space
The compact design and fold-away features make this coffee maker suitable for those with limited kitchen space. Its ability to perform multiple functions without taking up too much room is a significant advantage for apartment dwellers or those with small kitchens.
Final Verdict – Is the Ninja Specialty coffee maker worth it?
In summary, the versatility of the Ninja Specialty Coffee Maker provides an excellent choice for a wide range of users, from coffee aficionados and busy professionals to environmentally conscious consumers and those looking for a good value-for-money appliance that delivers delicious coffees.
Alternative to the Ninja Specialty coffee machine: Ninja Dualbrew Pro (click for our full Review)
Thanks for taking your time out to read our thoroughly researched Review! We dote on giving you the truthful information and enough of it in order for you to make an informed decision. Join us again as we post regular articles and Reviews on the latest or any machines we feel deserve attention. Thanks again!
(all images courtesy of the Ninja Company)
Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model | Ninja Specialty Coffee Maker |
| Brew Types | Classic, Rich, Over Ice, Specialty |
| Brew Sizes | Cup, XL Cup, Travel Mug, XL Multi-Serve, Half Carafe, Full Carafe |
| Carafe Type | Glass Carafe or Thermal Carafe (model dependent) |
| Water Reservoir Capacity | 50 ounces (1.48 liters) |
| Built-in Frother | Yes |
| Auto-IQ One-Touch Intelligence | Yes |
| Programmable Delay Brew | Yes |
| Permanent Filter | Yes |
| Fold-Away Frother | Yes |
| Dimensions | 12″ x 8.8″ x 15″ (H x W x D) |
| Weight | 10.1 lbs (4.58 kg) |
| Wattage | 1550 watts |
| Material | Plastic, Stainless Steel |
| Color Options | Black with Stainless Steel Accents |
| Warranty | 1-year limited warranty |
| Best place to Buy | Buy on Amazon |