Choosing between the Ninja CM401 vs CM300 can be tough, but it all comes down to what you want in a coffee maker. Both machines brew great coffee, but each offers unique features that suit different needs.
As a seasoned coffee lover, I’ve used both and will break down their performance, ease of use, and value to help you decide. Keep reading to find out which one fits your style!
Table of Contents
Ninja CM401 Review
The Ninja CM401 is easy to use and makes rich coffee. Let’s look at what makes this coffee maker special.
At first glance, the Ninja CM401 feels solid and compact. It’s designed to serve multiple brewing needs, from single cups to full carafes, making it a versatile choice for coffee lovers.
What I Like
- Brew Options: The four brew styles (Classic, Rich, Over Ice, Specialty) let you customize each cup to your taste. I appreciate the flexibility.
- No Pods Needed: The Ninja CM401 lets you use your own coffee grounds. You won’t need expensive pods, saving you money and reducing waste.
- Built-In Frother: The fold-away frother is a game-changer for lattes and cappuccinos. It turns hot or cold milk into silky froth in seconds.
- Removable Water Reservoir: The 40-ounce water reservoir is easy to detach and refill, saving time and making cleanup less of a chore.
- Easy Cleaning: Many parts are dishwasher safe, which makes the cleaning process simple.
What Could Be Better
- Plastic Taste: Some users, myself included, noticed a slight plastic taste that persists even after multiple cleanings. It can take some time to go away.
- Coffee Grounds in the Cup: When brewing smaller sizes, I found coffee grounds in my cup on occasion. It’s manageable with paper filters but still a bit inconvenient.
- Size: The coffee maker is a bit bulky, and you may need to pull it out from under the cabinet when brewing.
My Personal Brewing Experience
I’ve used the Ninja CM401 for over two years, and it’s given me many great coffee moments. My first cup was an iced coffee on a hot afternoon. The flavor was bold but not watered down. The frother was helpful when I made homemade cappuccinos, which my family loved.
I did have a small issue later on—coffee started dripping slowly after brewing. It didn’t change the flavor, but it took some getting used to. Even with this, the coffee stayed good, and the brew sizes were perfect. Whether I needed a quick cup in the morning or a half carafe on the weekend, it worked well.
Recommendation
The Ninja CM401 is great for coffee lovers who want options without the hassle of pods. It’s perfect for iced coffee, lattes, or a strong classic brew. But if you’re sensitive to plastic taste or need a smaller coffee maker for small spaces, you may want to check other choices or do more research before buying.
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Ninja CM300 Review
The Ninja CM300 Hot & Iced Coffee Maker stands out with its sleek design and versatility. It’s easy to use and offers different brew sizes and styles. Whether you need a single cup or coffee for a large group, it’s a great choice.
What I Like
- Brew Variety: You can choose from three brew styles—Classic, Rich, and Over Ice. It’s a fun way to change your coffee based on your mood.
- Adjustable Sizes: From a single cup to a full 10-cup carafe, the Ninja CM300 makes it easy to brew exactly the amount you need without any waste.
- Iced Coffee Function: It brews strong iced coffee that doesn’t get watered down, perfect for hot days when you want something cool and refreshing.
- Removable Reservoir: Refilling is hassle-free thanks to the pull-away water reservoir. It makes the whole process quicker and less messy.
- No Pods Needed: I like that it doesn’t need pods. This helps reduce waste. It also lets you control the flavor of your coffee.
What Could Be Better
- Filter Not Included: The fact that you need to buy a separate filter can be inconvenient. Without it, you risk having coffee grounds in your cup. A filter should have been included with the machine.
- Durability Concerns: Some users say the machine stops brewing full pots or cups after a few weeks. This happens even when they clean it often.
- Reservoir Mold Issue: Some customers said mold grew in the water filter. They couldn’t remove it to clean, which made it hard to maintain.
My Personal Coffee Brewing Experience
After using the Ninja CM300 for a few weeks, I noticed it changed my coffee routine. I can brew one cup for myself or a full pot for guests. It’s easy to use and practical. I love the Over Ice function. My iced coffee stays rich and never tastes watery, even on warm afternoons.
One thing I noticed, though, was the need for a separate cone filter. I didn’t realize this at first and ended up with some grounds in my coffee. But once I got the right filter, it worked like a charm. The machine itself is very easy to clean, and I haven’t had any problems with it so far. I also appreciate how fast it brews, whether I’m making a quick cup in the morning or setting up a full carafe for a weekend brunch.
Recommendation
The Ninja CM300 is great for anyone who likes different coffee styles. You can make hot brews or iced coffee, all without pods. It works for single cups or for groups. Whether you’re making coffee for yourself or friends, it’s a good choice.
If you care about how long the machine lasts or worry about cleaning the reservoir, you might want to look into other models. You’ll also need to buy a filter, as it doesn’t come with one.
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Ninja CM401 vs CM300: Details Comparison
Over the last couple of months, I’ve been using both the Ninja CM401 and CM300. Here’s what I found after using both:
Brewing Speed: Ninja CM401 vs CM300
Both the Ninja CM401 and CM300 brew coffee quickly. The CM401 is faster for specialty drinks. The CM300 is steady and quick for classic and iced coffee.
| Feature | Ninja CM401 | Ninja CM300 |
| Brewing Time | ~4-5 minutes for specialty brews | ~4 minutes for classic brews |
| Specialty Brew Speed | Faster due to added options | Not applicable |
| Consistency | Reliable across all brew types | Reliable for basic brews |
Ninja CM401 for its versatility and slightly faster brewing for specialty drinks.
Coffee Temperature: Ninja CM401 vs CM300
Both models keep coffee hot. The CM401 ensures even heat for all sizes. The CM300 works well for basic brews.
| Feature | Ninja CM401 | Ninja CM300 |
| Temperature Consistency | Excellent across all sizes | Good for basic brews |
| Specialty Brews | Well-calibrated temperatures | Not applicable |
| Iced Coffee Quality | Stays strong, no dilution | Effective, slightly less rich |
Ninja CM401 for its ability to maintain optimal temperatures for diverse brews.
Water Tank Capacity: Ninja CM401 vs CM300
Both models have removable water tanks for easy refilling. The CM401’s larger tank means fewer refills, which is great for families.
| Feature | Ninja CM401 | Ninja CM300 |
| Reservoir Size | 40 ounces | 35 ounces |
| Ease of Refilling | Simple, detachable | Simple, detachable |
| Cleaning Difficulty | Easy to clean | Slightly harder corners |
Ninja CM401 for its larger capacity and easier maintenance.
Filter Quality: Ninja CM401 vs CM300
Both machines use coffee grounds, so pods are not needed. The CM401’s design keeps grounds out of your cup better than the CM300.
| Feature | Ninja CM401 | Ninja CM300 |
| Included Filter | Standard, efficient | Requires separate purchase |
| Grounds in Coffee | Minimal | Occasionally present |
| Filter Maintenance | Easy to replace/clean | More frequent replacements |
Ninja CM401 for better filtration and convenience.
Brew Quality: Ninja CM401 vs CM300
Both models make tasty coffee. The CM401 offers specialty brews, perfect for coffee lovers who want variety.
| Feature | Ninja CM401 | Ninja CM300 |
| Classic Brew Quality | Excellent | Excellent |
| Specialty Brew Quality | Available, premium taste | Not available |
| Iced Coffee Quality | Strong, no dilution | Strong, slightly less rich |
Ninja CM401 for its expanded brew options and consistently superior taste.
Performance: Ninja CM401 vs CM300
Both machines work well. The CM401 has extra features like a frother and specialty brews, making it more versatile.
| Feature | Ninja CM401 | Ninja CM300 |
| Brewing Options | 4 (Classic, Rich, Over Ice, Specialty) | 3 (Classic, Rich, Over Ice) |
| Frother Included | Yes, fold-away | No |
| Durability | High | Moderate |
Ninja CM401 for its versatility and premium features.
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Ease of Use: Ninja CM401 vs CM300
Both models are easy to use. The CM401 has more intuitive controls and a better cleaning system.
| Feature | Ninja CM401 | Ninja CM300 |
| Control Panel | User-friendly, clear icons | Simpler, fewer options |
| Cleaning Process | Dishwasher-safe parts | Requires extra effort |
| Brew Size Options | 6 sizes | 5 sizes |
Ninja CM401 for its user-friendly design and additional size options.
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Value for Money: Ninja CM401 vs CM300
The CM300 is affordable and great for simple needs. The CM401 costs more but offers advanced features for coffee enthusiasts.
| Feature | Ninja CM401 | Ninja CM300 |
| Price Range | Higher | Lower |
| Features Included | Frother, specialty brews | Basic brews only |
| Long-term Value | Excellent for coffee lovers | Great for simple needs |
It depends—CM401 for enthusiasts, CM300 for budget-conscious buyers.
Overall: Ninja CM401 vs CM300
Choosing between the CM401 and CM300 depends on your needs. The CM401 is perfect for variety and specialty drinks. The CM300 is great for simplicity and affordability.
| Feature | Ninja CM401 | Ninja CM300 |
| Versatility | High | Moderate |
| Affordability | Moderate | High |
| Overall Experience | Coffeehouse-like | Reliable, straightforward |
Ninja CM401 for its premium experience, though the CM300 is a solid budget-friendly choice.
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Quick Comparison: Ninja CM401 vs CM300
| Feature | Ninja CM401 | Ninja CM300 |
| Brew Styles | 4 Options: Classic, Rich, Over Ice, Specialty | 3 Options: Classic, Rich, Over Ice |
| Built-in Frother | Yes, fold-away frother for hot and cold milk | No frother included |
| Water Reservoir | Removable 40-ounce reservoir | Removable reservoir, harder to clean |
| Brew Sizes | 6 sizes (single cup to full carafe) | 5 sizes (single cup to full carafe) |
| Pod Compatibility | No pods needed, uses ground coffee | No pods needed, uses ground coffee |
| Ease of Use | Easy to use, clear buttons, many options | Simple design, easy but fewer options |
| Special Features | Specialty brew for lattes and cappuccinos | No specialty brew |
| Cleaning | Dishwasher-safe parts, easy to clean | Easy to clean but needs a separate filter |
| Value for Money | Higher price but more features | Lower price, good value for basic use |
| Size and Bulkiness | Bulky, may need more counter space | Smaller, fits better in tight spaces |
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FAQs for Ninja CM401 vs CM300
Which is better, Ninja CM401 or CM300?
The Ninja CM401 offers more brew styles and a built-in frother, making it better for coffee enthusiasts. The CM300 is simpler and more affordable.
What are the main differences between the Ninja CM401 and CM300?
The CM401 has four brew styles, a frother, and more size options. The CM300 has three brew styles and no frother, but it’s more compact.
Does the Ninja CM300 have a built-in frother?
No, the Ninja CM300 does not have a built-in frother. The Ninja CM401 includes a fold-away frother for making lattes and cappuccinos.
Do Ninja CM401 and CM300 use coffee pods?
No, both the Ninja CM401 and CM300 use ground coffee, not pods. This helps reduce waste and saves money.
Can both the Ninja CM401 and CM300 make iced coffee?
Yes, both models have an iced coffee brew option. However, the CM401 also has a specialty brew for richer drinks like macchiatos.