When I compared the Ninja TB401 and BN801, I wanted to see which blender worked better for a busy home cook like me. Both can make smoothies, crush ice, and even mix dough. But they don’t feel the same in daily use. I live in Dallas and cook at home most nights.
I needed a machine that could save time and still fit on my counter. After trying both, I found the TB401 has more power and smart speed control. The BN801 is simpler and more budget-friendly. In this review, I’ll share my experience so you can see which one fits your kitchen best.
Ninja TB401 Review
I’ve been using the Ninja TB401 for a while, and it has become a favorite tool in my kitchen. I cook most meals at home, so I need gear that saves time. This blender is more than a smoothie maker. It can chop, shred, and even mix dough. That means I don’t need to pull out a food processor when I’m cooking for my family.

The TB401 also feels smart. It can sense what’s in the jar and adjust speed by itself. I tested it with frozen mango and spinach. The drink came out smooth, and I never had to stop to stir. That saved me time and hassle.
Of course, it’s not perfect. It’s strong and simple to use, but it does have a few weak spots. I’ll share both sides so you can see if it works for you.
What I Like
- Smart blending: It changes speed on its own. Frozen fruit is no problem.
- Food processor in one: The slicing and shredding disc is great. I’ve shredded cheese and sliced zucchini fast.
- Smooth results: Smoothies come out creamy, even with kale. No chunks left.
- Easy cleanup: The cups and bowl go in the dishwasher. I rinse the blades right away.
- Digital dial: The timer and alerts are useful. It even tells me to add more liquid.
What Could Be Better
- Noise: Like most strong blenders, it’s loud. I wait until later in the morning so I don’t wake the house.
- Single cup: It comes with only one. In my house, I wish it had two so we could both blend at once.
- Durability: Some people say the blade base can wear out. Mine is fine, but I’ll be gentle and may get the warranty.
Ninja TB401 At a Glance
Feature | Details |
Core Tech | BlendSense™ smart detection |
Power | 1800 peak watts / 1200 running |
Pitcher Capacity | 72 oz (64 oz max liquid) |
Processor Bowl | 64 oz with slicing/shredding disc |
Single-Serve Cups | One 24 oz cup included |
Controls | Digital dial with countdown |
Dishwasher Safe | Yes, top rack |
Price (MSRP) | Around $249.99 |
Recommendation
The Ninja TB401 is a smart pick if you want one tool that blends and preps food with less work. It’s great for home cooks who make smoothies, family meals, and side dishes like shredded cheese or sliced veggies. I think it works best for small to medium households that cook often.
If you only want smoothies, the BN801 may be a cheaper choice. But if you want one machine that can do more, the TB401 is worth it. For me, it has earned a spot on my counter.
Ninja BN801 Review
I’ve been using the Ninja BN801 for months. It’s now part of my daily routine. Most mornings, I make a smoothie before work. The BN801 blends frozen berries, spinach, and protein powder with no chunks. Compared to my old blender, it feels faster and smoother.

It’s not only for smoothies. I use it to chop onions, make salsa, and knead small batches of dough. It saves me from pulling out a food processor, which is a big help on busy nights. It’s not perfect, but it has earned a steady spot on my counter.
What I Like
- Smooth blending: Frozen fruit and greens come out creamy. No chunks, even with spinach.
- Versatility: I use it for salsa, nuts, and dough. It feels like two tools in one.
- Ease of use: The preset programs are simple. I press one button, and it runs to the end.
- Power: It crushes ice in seconds. Cold drinks turn out smooth and refreshing.
- Cleaning: Most parts go in the dishwasher. I rinse the blades right away to keep them sharp.
What Could Be Better
- Noise: It’s loud, like most strong blenders. I wait until later in the morning so I don’t wake the house.
- Size: The 72 oz pitcher is large. Good for families, but bulky in a small kitchen.
- Accessories: It comes with two cups. For a couple, that works, but I wish it had one more.
Ninja BN801 At a Glance
Feature | Details |
Power | 1400 peak watts |
Pitcher Capacity | 72 oz (64 oz max liquid) |
Processor Bowl | 64 oz with dough blade |
Single-Serve Cups | Two 24 oz cups |
Preset Programs | Smoothie, Ice Crush, More |
Dishwasher Safe | Yes, top rack |
Price (MSRP) | Around $199.99 |
Recommendation
The Ninja BN801 is a smart pick if you want more than a smoothie blender. It blends, chops, and kneads with ease. The large pitcher makes it great for families who cook often.
If you only make single drinks, the BN400 may be a cheaper and smaller choice. But for me, the BN801 is strong, versatile, and worth the space on my counter.
Ninja TB401 vs BN801 Comparison
I’ve used both the Ninja TB401 and the BN801. Both make smoothies, crush ice, and handle family meals. But they feel a bit different in use. Here’s what stood out for me.
Blending Power – Ninja TB401 vs BN801
Both are strong. The TB401 has more power with its 1800-watt motor. It blends frozen fruit faster. The BN801 still makes smooth drinks, but it feels slower with tough loads.
Feature | Ninja TB401 | Ninja BN801 |
Peak Power | 1800 watts | 1400 watts |
Smoothie Texture | Extra creamy | Very smooth |
Ice Crushing | Fast, no chunks | Smooth, slower |
Rating: TB401 – 9/10, BN801 – 8/10
Blade Quality – Ninja TB401 vs BN801
Both have sharp, sturdy blades. The TB401 pairs them with smart speed sensing. That means less stopping to stir. The BN801 blends well, but I had to shake the cup at times.
Feature | Ninja TB401 | Ninja BN801 |
Blade Design | Multi-level blades | Multi-level |
Smart Adjust | Yes, BlendSense tech | No smart tech |
Stirring Need | Rarely | Sometimes |
Rating: TB401 – 9/10, BN801 – 8/10
Jar Material – Ninja TB401 vs BN801
Both have strong plastic pitchers. Both are dishwasher safe. The BN801 includes two single-serve cups, which I liked. The TB401 has only one, which slowed us down when two people wanted drinks.
Feature | Ninja TB401 | Ninja BN801 |
Pitcher Size | 72 oz | 72 oz |
Single-Serve Cups | One 24 oz | Two 24 oz |
Dishwasher Safe | Yes | Yes |
Rating: TB401 – 8/10, BN801 – 9/10
Motor Strength – Ninja TB401 vs BN801
The TB401 is stronger and has smart controls. It feels modern. The BN801 is simpler but still solid.
Feature | Ninja TB401 | Ninja BN801 |
Running Watts | 1200 watts | 1000+ watts |
Tech Support | Digital smart dial | Auto-iQ presets |
Overall Feel | Powerful, adaptive | Strong, reliable |
Rating: TB401 – 9/10, BN801 – 8/10
Noise Level – Ninja TB401 vs BN801
Both are loud. The TB401 is a bit louder. I wait until later in the morning to use it. The BN801 makes less noise and feels softer.
Feature | Ninja TB401 | Ninja BN801 |
Noise Level | High | Medium-high |
Family Impact | Can wake kids | Less disruptive |
Best Use Time | Daytime use | Anytime |
Rating: TB401 – 7/10, BN801 – 8/10
Performance – Ninja TB401 vs BN801
Both give smooth results. The TB401 handles heavy loads better. The BN801 is still great for daily drinks.
Feature | Ninja TB401 | Ninja BN801 |
Smoothies | Extra creamy | Smooth |
Dough Mixing | Yes | Yes |
Ice Crushing | Faster | Slower |
Rating: TB401 – 9/10, BN801 – 8/10
Ease of Use – Ninja TB401 vs BN801
The BN801 is simpler with Auto-iQ presets. The TB401 has a digital dial and alerts. It takes a little more learning but feels modern.
Feature | Ninja TB401 | Ninja BN801 |
Presets | Smart programs | Auto-iQ |
Cleanup | Easy, dishwasher | Easy, dishwasher |
Learning Curve | Slightly higher | Very simple |
Rating: TB401 – 8/10, BN801 – 9/10
Value for Money – Ninja TB401 vs BN801
The BN801 costs less and meets most needs. The TB401 costs more but has more power and smart features.
Feature | Ninja TB401 | Ninja BN801 |
Price (MSRP) | Around $249.99 | Around $199.99 |
Best For | Power + smart tech | Budget + simple |
Long-Term Use | High if used daily | Great for families |
Rating: TB401 – 8/10, BN801 – 9/10
Overall – Ninja TB401 vs BN801
Both blenders are strong choices. I use the TB401 when I want speed and power. I grab the BN801 when I want a quick smoothie with less fuss.
Feature | Ninja TB401 | Ninja BN801 |
Strengths | Power, smart tech | Simplicity, value |
Weak Points | Loud, higher price | Less power, no smart |
Best For | Home cooks, daily use | Families, budget users |
Rating: TB401 – 8.5/10, BN801 – 8.5/10