Ninja Creami CN305A vs NC301: My Honest Take

If you’re comparing the Ninja Creami CN305A vs NC301, here’s the truth—they work almost the same. The CN305A only stands out because it comes with extra pints in the box. That small perk makes a big difference in my home in Austin, Texas.

I can freeze more flavors for my kids without buying extras. After using both, I’ve seen the same creamy results. But the CN305A feels more family-friendly. In this review, I’ll share my own experience so you can see which one fits your kitchen best.

Ninja Creami CN305A Review

I’ve been using the Ninja Creami CN305A at home, and it has become a family favorite. At first, I thought it was just like the other Creami models. But after checking, I found out the CN305A is the same as the NC301—it just comes with more pints. That little bonus makes a big difference. I can freeze a few flavors at once and always have treats ready to go.

This machine is great when you want creamy desserts without much work. You do need to freeze your mix a day before, so planning is key. But once ready, the results are worth it. I’ve made rich ice cream for movie nights and smoothie bowls for quick breakfasts. My kids enjoy adding candy or fruit during the “Mix-In” step. I like that I can cut sugar and make healthier options.

It is loud, about as noisy as a blender, but it only runs a few minutes. The texture is smoother than what I’ve made with a regular ice cream maker.

What I Like

• Extra pints: The bundle came with more pints, so I didn’t need to buy extras.
• Easy to use: One-touch programs make switching between ice cream, sorbet, or shakes simple.
• Smooth results: The texture comes out creamy, close to store-bought ice cream.
• Healthy choices: Works well for protein ice cream, dairy-free, or low-sugar treats.
• Compact size: It fits on my counter better than I thought, though it’s tall.

What Could Be Better

• Noise: Very loud, which is a problem if someone’s sleeping or watching TV.
• Freeze time: You can’t make dessert right away; you need to plan a day ahead.
• First spin: Sometimes the mix is crumbly. The “Re-Spin” button usually fixes it.
• Color options: Mostly comes in black or silver, unlike other models with more choices.

Ninja Creami CN305A at a Glance

Recommendation

If you want a fun, easy way to make ice cream, smoothie bowls, or sorbets, the Ninja Creami CN305A is a smart pick. The extra pints make it great for families or anyone who wants to prep more than one flavor at once. Plus, you can make healthier versions of your favorite treats.

But if you need large batches or want same-day desserts, the Creami Deluxe or a compressor ice cream maker may be better. For me, the CN305A is the sweet spot. It gives my family variety, saves counter space, and doesn’t cost too much.

Ninja Creami NC301 Review

I’ve used the Ninja Creami NC301 for family nights, and it’s been a fun way to make desserts at home. The best part is how simple it is. You freeze your mix overnight, then press one button to turn it into ice cream, sorbet, or even a protein shake.

For me, it’s great because I can control what goes inside. I’ve made low-sugar ice cream for myself and fruity sorbets for the kids. Their favorite step is “Mix-In.” That’s when they toss in chocolate chips, candy, or fruit. The results are smooth and creamy—close to store-bought but made right in my kitchen.

It’s not perfect, though. Like other Creami models, it’s loud and you do need to plan ahead. But once you’re in the routine, it’s easy to keep frozen pints ready for whenever the craving hits.

What I Like

• Easy setup: One-touch programs make it simple.
• Smooth results: Ice cream turns out creamy, not icy.
• Mix-In fun: Kids enjoy adding candy or fruit.
• Health control: I can make dairy-free, low-sugar, or protein options.
• Compact design: Fits well, even on a small counter.

What Could Be Better

• Noise: As loud as a blender, which can be annoying.
• Wait time: You must freeze the base a full day ahead.
• Extra pints: It only comes with two, so I bought more.
• Learning curve: Sometimes the first spin is crumbly. A quick “Re-Spin” fixes it.

Ninja Creami NC301 at a Glance

Recommendation

The Ninja Creami NC301 is a smart pick if you want an easy way to make ice cream, sorbet, or smoothie bowls at home. It works best for small families, college students, or anyone who likes customizing desserts. I suggest buying a few extra pints so you can prep different flavors ahead of time.

If you need bigger batches or same-day results, go for the Creami Deluxe or a compressor ice cream maker. But for me, the NC301 hits a sweet spot. It’s fun, versatile, and doesn’t take up much space.

Ninja Creami CN305A vs NC301: Detailed Comparison

I’ve used both the Ninja Creami CN305A and NC301 at home. To be honest, they work almost the same. The big change is in the bundle. The CN305A often comes with extra pints, which helps when making more than one flavor. Let’s look at each feature.

Freezing Speed: Ninja Creami CN305A vs NC301

Both models need the same prep. You freeze your base overnight before spinning. No same-day ice cream here.

Rating: CN305A: 8/10 | NC301: 8/10

Capacity: Ninja Creami CN305A vs NC301

This is where the CN305A pulls ahead. It gives more pints, so you can freeze extra flavors. The NC301 only has two.

Rating: CN305A: 9/10 | NC301: 7/10

Bowl Material: Ninja Creami CN305A vs NC301

Both use BPA-free plastic pints with lids. They’re dishwasher safe, top rack only.

Rating: CN305A: 8/10 | NC301: 8/10

Mixing Quality: Ninja Creami CN305A vs NC301

The texture is smooth on both. Sometimes the first spin is crumbly, but “Re-Spin” fixes it.

Rating: CN305A: 9/10 | NC301: 9/10

Noise Level: Ninja Creami CN305A vs NC301

Both are loud, like a blender. It only lasts a few minutes, but it can bother people nearby.

Rating: CN305A: 6/10 | NC301: 6/10

Performance: Ninja Creami CN305A vs NC301

Performance is the same. Both make ice cream, sorbet, smoothie bowls, and shakes.

Rating: CN305A: 9/10 | NC301: 9/10

Ease of Use: Ninja Creami CN305A vs NC301

Both are simple—freeze, lock, press a button. The CN305A feels easier since it has more pints.

Rating: CN305A: 9/10 | NC301: 8/10

Value for Money: Ninja Creami CN305A vs NC301

If prices are close, the CN305A is worth it for the extra pints. If not, the NC301 is fine—you’ll just need to buy extras.

Rating: CN305A: 9/10 | NC301: 8/10

Overall: Ninja Creami CN305A vs NC301

Both models make great ice cream. The CN305A wins by a small edge since it comes with more pints. But the NC301 is just as strong if you’re fine buying extras.

Final Rating: CN305A: 9/10 | NC301: 8/10

FAQs: Ninja Creami CN305A vs NC301