Ninja CM401 Specialty 10-Cup Coffee Maker with 4 Brew Styles for Ground Coffee, Built-in Water Reservoir, Fold-Away Frother & Glass Carafe, Black
If you’re a coffee lover seeking the perfect brew from the comfort of your home, the Ninja CM401 Specialty 10-Cup Coffee Maker should be on your radar. With its versatile brewing options, thoughtful design, and impressive performance, it offers an array of benefits that make it a worthy addition to any coffee enthusiast’s kitchen.
Pros:
Cons:
Design & Build Quality
Image credit: Ninja
The Ninja CM401 boasts a sleek and modern design that will complement any kitchen countertop. The foldable cup shelf and frother add to its aesthetics while providing a cleaner look when not in use. The glass carafe feels sturdy and well-made, and the water reservoir is conveniently removable for easy filling. The intuitive buttons and user-friendly interface make operation straightforward, and the inclusion of a permanent filter eliminates the need for disposable options.
The thoughtful design extends to the brewing process. This coffee maker’s ability to “bloom” the coffee grounds and evenly distribute water using a showerhead dispenser ensures consistent and flavorful results. It’s clear that Ninja has taken care to address both aesthetics and functionality in this model.
Power & Performance
Image credit: Ninja
The Ninja CM401 truly shines in the performance department. The four brew styles cater to a wide range of coffee preferences, from those who prefer a classic, milder taste to those who crave a rich, bold flavor. The Specialty Brew option is a standout, delivering a coffee concentrate that rivals the taste of espresso. The ability to customize the strength by adjusting the coffee-to-water ratio is a game-changer, allowing you to tailor your brew precisely to your liking.
The inclusion of an iced coffee option is a standout feature. It ensures that your iced coffee maintains its robust flavor without being diluted by melting ice. The built-in frother is a delightful addition, providing the finishing touch for coffeehouse-style drinks.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Image credit: Ninja
Maintaining the Ninja CM401 is relatively hassle-free. The glass carafe, brew-through lid, permanent filter, removable filter holder, water reservoir, flip-top lid, frother whisk, and scoop are all top-rack dishwasher safe, which saves you time and effort. However, as mentioned earlier, the narrow opening of the brew pot can be a bit tricky to clean by hand.
What’s the Alternative?
Image credit: Keurig
Choosing between the Ninja CM401 Specialty 10-Cup Coffee Maker and the Keurig K-Mini Single Serve Coffee Maker comes down to your coffee preferences and lifestyle. The Ninja offers versatility with multiple brew styles and sizes, including specialty brews and iced coffee options, making it ideal for enthusiasts seeking a comprehensive coffee experience. However, concerns about plastic components may deter some users despite its impressive performance.
Meanwhile, the Keurig K-Mini excels in compactness and simplicity, catering to those with limited space or a preference for single-serve convenience. Its quick brewing and compatibility with K-Cup pods or ground coffee provide flexibility, although its higher price point for its size may be a drawback. Ultimately, if customization and versatility are key, the Ninja CM401 shines, but for space-saving convenience and simplicity, the Keurig K-Mini is a compelling alternative.
Conclusion: Should You Buy the Ninja CM401 Specialty 10-Cup Coffee Maker?
In summary, the Ninja CM401 Specialty 10-Cup Coffee Maker is a remarkable addition to any coffee lover’s kitchen. Its versatility in brewing styles, ability to craft specialty drinks, and consistent performance make it a standout option in the market. The convenience of multiple brew sizes, a built-in frother, and easy maintenance contribute to its appeal.
While concerns about heating water in plastic components exist, the Ninja CM401 still manages to impress with its overall performance and design. If you’re looking for a coffee maker that can cater to a variety of preferences, from classic coffee to specialty brews, this model should be at the top of your list. It’s perfect for those who want a coffeehouse-quality experience without leaving the comfort of their home. Give it a try and savor the rich, customizable flavors it brings to your daily coffee routine.
