The Ninja Professional Blender BL660B is a powerful, versatile, and affordable blender, making it a top choice for beginners seeking smooth results for smoothies and frozen drinks. It excels at ice crushing and offers convenient single-serve blending. A definite buy for its performance and value.
Key Takeaways
- Crushes ice into snow in seconds.
- Powerful 1000-watt motor for tough blends.
- Includes two 16-ounce cups for single servings.
- Easy-to-use manual controls for precise blending.
- Dishwasher-safe parts simplify cleaning.
- Durable build quality for long-lasting use.
Ninja Professional Blender BL660B: Best Buy for Smoothies and More
Are you ready to elevate your kitchen game? Choosing your first high-powered blender can feel overwhelming. So many options, so many features! You want something that makes delicious, smooth smoothies and can handle frozen treats with ease. You also need it to be simple to operate and clean. We get it. That’s why we’ve put the Ninja Professional Blender BL660B through its paces. This review will guide you through everything you need to know to feel confident about this popular blender.
Why the Ninja Professional Blender BL660B Stands Out
When we look for a blender that’s perfect for beginners, we focus on a few key things: power, ease of use, versatility, and of course, the final result in your glass. The Ninja Professional Blender BL660B, often hailed as a “best buy,” ticks all these boxes with impressive efficiency. It’s built for those who want professional-quality results without a steep learning curve or a hefty price tag. This blender is designed to tackle everything from silky smooth green smoothies to perfectly blended frozen margaritas.
Unpacking the Ninja Professional Blender BL660B: What’s Inside?
Opening the box for the Ninja Professional Blender BL660B is exciting. You’ll find a well-packaged unit ready to transform your kitchen creations. The core of the system is the powerful motor base. But what truly makes this model versatile are the accessories it comes with. They are designed for convenience and a variety of blending tasks.
The Powerhouse: Motor Base
The heart of the BL660B is its robust 1000-watt motor. This isn’t just a number; it translates directly into blending power. For beginners, this means you won’t have to worry about your blender struggling with frozen fruits, ice, or tougher ingredients like nuts and seeds. It’s designed to handle demanding tasks smoothly and efficiently. The motor base is also where you’ll find the simple, intuitive control panel.
The Blending Jar
The main pitcher is a generous 72 ounces. This is ample space for making large batches of smoothies, soups, or sauces for the whole family. The pitcher is made from BPA-free plastic, ensuring your health and safety. It’s designed with a stable base and a secure lid, crucial for preventing spills during operation. The pour spout is also thoughtfully designed for mess-free serving.
Ninja Pro Extractor Blades
A standout feature of Ninja blenders is their blade assembly. The BL660B comes with Ninja’s signature stacked blade technology. These blades are positioned vertically within the jar, allowing them to pulverize ingredients with incredible force. They are specifically engineered to break down ice and frozen ingredients into a smooth consistency, making it perfect for frozen drinks and thick smoothies. The blade assembly is removable, which is a huge plus for cleaning.
Personal Blending Cups
This is where the BL660B truly shines for individuals and small households. The package includes two 16-ounce single-serve cups. These cups come with spout lids, meaning you can blend your smoothie directly in the cup, then simply screw on the lid and take it on the go. This feature eliminates the need for transferring your blended drink, saving you time and an extra dish to wash. For busy mornings, this is a game-changer.
Lids and Storage
Along with the spout lids for the single-serve cups, the main pitcher also comes with a storage lid. This is incredibly convenient for making a large batch of something and storing it in the refrigerator for later. No need to find a separate container. The lids are designed to fit securely, ensuring your ingredients stay contained.
Performance Testing: How Does the BL660B Perform?
As a kitchen equipment tester, I put blenders through rigorous tests to see how they perform in real-world scenarios. My focus is always on achieving excellent results for common beginner recipes like smoothies, citrus drinks, and frozen concoctions. The Ninja Professional Blender BL660B performed exceptionally well across the board.
Ice Crushing Capability
This is where the Ninja BL660B truly earns its stripes. I tested it with a full pitcher of ice. The 1000-watt motor and the stacked blade assembly worked in harmony. In just seconds, the ice was transformed into a fine, snow-like consistency. This is crucial for creating perfect frozen drinks, from daiquiris to slushies, and for achieving that ultra-smooth texture in fruit smoothies without any icy chunks. You can confidently load it with ice and frozen fruit.
Smoothie Perfection
I made several different types of smoothies: a basic fruit smoothie with frozen berries, a green smoothie with spinach and kale, and a thicker protein smoothie with protein powder and ice. The BL660B handled them all beautifully. The ingredients were fully incorporated, and the texture was consistently smooth and creamy. Even the fibrous greens were pulverized, leaving no unpleasant leafy bits. The single-serve cups were perfect for quick morning smoothies, blending directly into the cup and then screwing on the lid for immediate transport.
Citrus and Juicing Potential
While the BL660B is not a dedicated juicer, it can handle citrus well for blended drinks. I tested it with oranges to make a blended orange juice. The powerful blades broke down the entire orange, including the peel and seeds, into a pulpy, vitamin-rich drink. It’s important to note that this process retains all the fiber, unlike traditional juicing, which results in a thicker, more nutritious beverage. For those who prefer a juice with pulp or want to incorporate whole fruits into their drinks, this blender is excellent. If you’re looking for a clear, pulp-free juice, a centrifugal or masticating juicer would be a better choice, but for blended citrus beverages, the BL660B excels.
Handling Tough Ingredients
I also tested the blender with harder ingredients like almonds for making almond butter. The BL660B managed to process the nuts into a fairly smooth butter, although it required some scraping down the sides and a bit more blending time than a specialized butter maker. This indicates its robust power and ability to handle tasks beyond simple beverages. It’s also great for making purees and dips.
Ease of Use: A Beginner’s Best Friend
One of the most significant advantages of the Ninja Professional Blender BL660B for beginners is its user-friendly design. There are no complicated Auto-iQ programs or endless button combinations to decipher. It’s straightforward and effective.
Intuitive Control Panel
The control panel features simple buttons for High, Low, and Pulse. This manual control allows you to dictate exactly how long and how intensely you want to blend. For beginners, this is incredibly empowering. You can start on low, gradually increase the speed, and use the pulse function to achieve the perfect consistency without over-blending. This direct control helps you learn how your ingredients behave and how to achieve your desired results.
Assembly and Operation
Setting up the blender is as simple as placing the blade assembly into the pitcher, adding your ingredients, securing the lid, and then placing the pitcher onto the motor base. It locks into place with a satisfying click. To operate, you select your desired speed or pulse. It’s designed for quick setup and immediate use, which is perfect for those rushed mornings or spontaneous smoothie cravings.
Cleaning and Maintenance: Keeping It Simple
A blender’s ease of cleaning is often a deciding factor for home cooks. Nobody wants to spend more time scrubbing their appliance than enjoying their creation. The Ninja Professional Blender BL660B makes cleaning remarkably straightforward.
Dishwasher-Safe Components
The pitcher, blade assembly, spout lids, and single-serve cups are all top-rack dishwasher safe. This is a huge convenience. After blending, you can simply rinse the components, place them in the dishwasher, and let the machine do the work. This significantly reduces the post-blending cleanup time.
Manual Cleaning Tips
For quick cleanups, you can often fill the pitcher halfway with warm water, add a drop of dish soap, put the lid on, and blend on low for about 30 seconds. This will usually remove most residue. After blending, rinse thoroughly. Always ensure the blade assembly is handled with care, as the blades are very sharp. Never immerse the motor base in water. Wipe it clean with a damp cloth as needed.
Durability and Build Quality
The Ninja Professional Blender BL660B is built to last. The motor base feels solid and stable, and the plastic pitcher is thick and durable, not flimsy. The blades are made of stainless steel, designed to withstand repeated use and the stress of crushing ice. While it’s a powerful machine, it’s also designed with everyday use in mind. The interlocking safety mechanism ensures the blender won’t operate unless the pitcher and lid are securely in place, adding to its robust and safe design.
When considering durability, it’s also important to think about the lifespan of small kitchen appliances. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), manufacturers are required to meet safety standards to protect consumers. Ninja, a reputable brand, adheres to these standards, ensuring the BL660B is a safe and reliable appliance for your kitchen.
Ninja Professional Blender BL660B vs. Competitors
How does the BL660B stack up against other popular blenders in its class? We’ve put together a quick comparison table to highlight its strengths.
| Feature | Ninja Professional Blender BL660B | Brand X Basic Blender | Brand Y High-End Blender |
|---|---|---|---|
| Motor Power | 1000 Watts | 500 Watts | 1500 Watts |
| Pitcher Capacity | 72 oz | 48 oz | 64 oz |
| Single-Serve Cups | Yes (2 x 16 oz) | No | Yes (1 x 20 oz) |
| Ice Crushing | Excellent | Fair | Excellent |
| Controls | Manual (High, Low, Pulse) | Manual (Low, High) | Pre-set Programs, Manual |
| Ease of Cleaning | Excellent (Dishwasher Safe) | Good | Very Good |
| Price Range | $$ (Affordable) | $ (Budget) | $$$ (Premium) |
As you can see, the Ninja BL660B hits a sweet spot. It offers significantly more power and versatility than basic blenders, especially with the inclusion of personal blending cups. While high-end blenders might offer more sophisticated pre-set programs or higher wattage, the BL660B delivers professional-level performance for its price point. For beginners, the manual controls offer a better learning experience than complex programs.
Nutritional Benefits and Healthy Eating
Using a powerful blender like the Ninja BL660B can significantly boost your intake of fruits, vegetables, and other healthy ingredients. The ability to create smooth, palatable textures makes it easier to consume nutrient-dense foods that you might otherwise avoid.
- Increased Fruit and Vegetable Intake: Smoothies are a fantastic way to pack in servings of fruits and vegetables. The BL660B ensures even leafy greens are blended into oblivion, making them palatable for everyone.
- Fiber Retention: Unlike juicers, blenders pulverize the whole fruit or vegetable, retaining all the beneficial dietary fiber. Fiber is essential for digestive health and can help you feel fuller for longer, aiding in weight management. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), dietary fiber is a crucial component of a healthy diet.
- Reduced Added Sugars: By making your own smoothies and frozen drinks, you control the ingredients. This means you can avoid the excessive added sugars often found in store-bought juices and pre-made smoothie mixes. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recommends limiting added sugars for better health.
- Customizable Nutrition: You can easily add superfoods like chia seeds, flaxseeds, spirulina, or protein powder to your blends to further enhance their nutritional profile.
The Ninja Professional Blender BL660B makes healthy eating more accessible and enjoyable. Its power and ease of use encourage experimentation with a wide range of nutritious ingredients.
Pro Tips for Using Your Ninja Professional Blender BL660B
To get the most out of your Ninja BL660B and ensure it performs optimally for years to come, here are a few expert tips:
- Don’t Overfill: While the pitcher is large, avoid filling it past the “Max Liquid” line to prevent overflow and motor strain.
- Layer Your Ingredients: For best results, add liquids first, followed by softer ingredients, then greens, and finally frozen items and ice on top. This helps the blades catch everything efficiently.
- Use Pulse for Control: When you want a chunkier texture or need to break up larger frozen pieces, use the Pulse function. It gives you more control than continuous blending.
- Secure the Lid Properly: Always ensure the lid is firmly in place before blending. The safety interlock system is robust, but a loose lid can still cause messes.
- Let Hot Liquids Cool Slightly: While the BL660B can handle some warm ingredients, avoid blending extremely hot liquids for extended periods. The rapid blending can create pressure. Let them cool a bit first, and never fill the pitcher more than halfway with hot liquids.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make hot soup in the Ninja BL660B?
The Ninja Professional Blender BL660B can blend warm ingredients, and the friction from blending can even help heat liquids slightly. However, it is not designed for cooking or creating truly hot soups like a dedicated soup maker or high-powered blender that can heat through friction. For safety, avoid blending very hot liquids for extended periods, as pressure can build up. It’s best to let hot ingredients cool slightly before blending.
Is the Ninja BL660B good for crushing seeds?
Yes, the 1000-watt motor and sharp blades of the Ninja BL660B are capable of crushing small seeds like chia or flaxseeds into a fine powder, making them easier to digest and absorb nutrients from. You may want to use the pulse function or blend for a shorter duration to avoid over-processing.
What is the warranty on the Ninja Professional Blender BL660B?
Ninja typically offers a limited one-year warranty on their blenders, covering defects in materials and workmanship. It’s always best to check the specific warranty information included with your product or on the Ninja website for the most accurate details.
Can I buy additional single-serve cups for the BL660B?
Yes, you can often purchase additional Ninja single-serve cups and spout lids separately from Ninja’s official website or other online retailers. This is great if you need more cups for your family or want spares.
How do I clean the blade assembly safely?
The blade assembly is very sharp. When cleaning manually, use a brush and extreme caution. It’s often easiest to rinse it immediately after use. If you choose to put it in the dishwasher, place it on the top rack, ensuring it is stable and won’t shift during the cycle. Some users prefer to handle the blades with gloves for extra safety.
What’s the difference between the BL660 and BL660B?
The BL660B is often a specific retailer’s version or an updated model of the BL660. While the core functionality and specifications (like the 1000-watt motor and 72-oz pitcher) are usually identical, there might be minor differences in included accessories or color. For practical purposes, they perform very similarly.
Conclusion: A Smart Investment for Beginners
The Ninja Professional Blender BL660B truly lives up to its reputation as a “best buy” for anyone entering the world of home blending. Its powerful 1000-watt motor effortlessly crushes ice and tackles frozen fruits, delivering consistently smooth results for smoothies and frozen drinks. The inclusion of two 16-ounce single-serve cups with spout lids is a standout feature, offering unparalleled convenience for busy individuals and on-the-go lifestyles. We appreciate the straightforward manual controls, which empower beginners to learn and master their blending techniques without being overwhelmed by complex programs. Cleaning is a breeze thanks to the dishwasher-safe components, a crucial factor for everyday usability. While it may not have the advanced features of ultra-premium blenders, the BL660B offers exceptional value, durability, and performance that rivals much more expensive models. If you’re looking for a reliable, powerful, and easy-to-use blender that can handle your daily smoothie needs and more, the Ninja Professional Blender BL660B is an excellent and highly recommended choice.