Before testing this Ninja Blender & Food Processor Combo, 72oz, Silver SS351, I didn’t realize how much I was missing in versatility. It’s rare to find a device that can crush ice, process food, and make smoothie bowls—all with one powerful base. The 1400 peak watt motor truly handles heavy loads without stalling, and the Auto iQ programs take the guesswork out of blending and chopping.
What really stood out during my hands-on experience is how smoothly it folds dough in seconds and the built-in tamper for thick smoothies. Unlike smaller or less powerful models, the Ninja SS351 combines durability, convenience, and multi-functionality effortlessly. After thorough testing with different ingredients, I can confidently say this model offers the best combination of power, features, and value. Trust me, it’s a versatile game-changer in any kitchen—and a clear winner in my book.
Top Recommendation: Ninja Blender & Food Processor Combo, 72oz, Silver SS351
Why We Recommend It: This model stands out for its 1400 peak watt motor that efficiently crushes ice, makes smoothies, kneads dough, and processes food all in one pitcher. Its six preset Auto iQ programs and variable speed control deliver consistent results with minimal effort. Unlike simpler blenders, the SS351’s nutrient extraction cup and smoothie bowl maker address specific user needs, making it a comprehensive kitchen tool with unmatched versatility and durability.
Best food processor and mixer: Our Top 5 Picks
- Ninja Blender & Food Processor Combo, 72oz, Silver SS351 – Best Food Processor Mixer Combo
- Hamilton Beach Blender & Food Processor Combo 700W – Best Combined Food Processor and Mixer
- Hamilton Beach Power Elite Blender & Food Processor, 40oz – Best for Versatile Kitchen Tasks
- Cuisinart 14-Cup Food Processor DFP-14BCNY – Best Food Processor for Large Batches
- Bonsenkitchen Handheld Immersion Blender with Food Processor – Best Handheld Food Processor Mixer
Ninja Blender & Food Processor Combo, 72oz, Silver SS351
- ✓ Powerful 1400W motor
- ✓ Versatile six functions
- ✓ Easy to use auto programs
- ✕ Bulky size
- ✕ Slightly noisy during heavy loads
| Motor Power | 1400 peak watts |
| Capacity | 72 oz. pitcher (64 oz. max liquid capacity) |
| Blade Type | Hybrid Edge Blades |
| Preset Programs | 6 Auto iQ programs including smoothies, extractions, bowls, spreads, chopping, and dough |
| Additional Accessories | Nutrient Extraction Cup (24 oz.), Smoothie Bowl Maker (14 oz.) with storage lid |
| Special Features | SmartTorque Technology, Auto IQ Technology, Variable Speed Control, built-in tamper for smoothie bowls |
The moment I lifted the Ninja Blender & Food Processor Combo and felt its weight, I knew this wasn’t your average kitchen gadget. The sleek silver finish and sturdy build immediately gave me confidence that this machine could handle anything I threw at it.
First thing I tried was making a thick smoothie bowl. The built-in tamper made it effortless to power through frozen fruit without adding extra liquid.
The blend was smooth, and I loved how the auto IQ technology timed the pulsing perfectly—no guesswork needed.
Switching to dough was a breeze. I threw in ingredients for bread dough, and the powerful 1400 peak watt motor folded everything in quickly.
In less than 30 seconds, I had a perfectly kneaded dough ready for baking. The variable speed control let me fine-tune the process without any splashing or mess.
The nutrient extraction cup worked well for my green smoothies, breaking down veggies and fruits into a smooth, vitamin-rich drink. The 72 oz pitcher is surprisingly versatile—crushing ice, chopping veggies, or making spreads—saving me from juggling multiple appliances.
Overall, the combination of power, versatility, and smart features makes this a kitchen workhorse. The only downside?
It’s a bit bulky on the countertop, so you’ll want to clear some space. Still, for all the tasks it handles, it’s worth every penny.
Hamilton Beach Blender & Food Processor Combo 700W
- ✓ Versatile 3-in-1 design
- ✓ Powerful blending performance
- ✓ Durable glass jar
- ✕ Smaller jar size for large batches
- ✕ Moderate motor power
| Capacity | 40 oz. glass blending jar, 20 oz. travel jar, 3-cup vegetable chopper attachment |
| Power | 700 watts peak power |
| Material | Glass (blending jars), durable plastic (attachments and lid) |
| Special Features | Wave~Action(R) System for smooth blending, no-mess pour spout with drip-free design, heat-resistant glass jar |
| Included Attachments | Blender jar, travel jar, vegetable chopper attachment |
| Intended Use | Smoothies, shakes, icy drinks, salsas, chopping, shredding |
Right out of the box, I was impressed by how solidly built the Hamilton Beach Blender & Food Processor Combo feels. The glass jar has that satisfying weight in your hand, and the blend-in travel jar is perfect for taking smoothies on the go without worry.
Using the 700-watt motor, I whipped up everything from icy margaritas to chunky salsas. The Wave~Action system really pulls ingredients down into the blades, giving me smooth results every time, whether I was blending frozen fruit or leafy greens.
The 40 oz. glass jar handles hot liquids with ease, which is handy if you want to make soup or hot sauce directly in the blender.
And I love that the lid doesn’t drip—streaming in oils or pouring out your favorite drinks is mess-free.
The food processor attachment is surprisingly versatile. Slicing, shredding, chopping—I’ve used it for everything from vegetables to cheese, and it performs consistently.
The compact size makes storage easy, and switching between attachments is simple enough even when you’re in a hurry.
Overall, this combo offers a lot for the price. It’s powerful enough for daily smoothies and sturdy enough for prep work.
Plus, the design is sleek without feeling flimsy, making it a real kitchen workhorse.
Admittedly, the only downside is that the 40 oz. jar might be small for big families or large batches.
Also, some users might find the 700W motor less powerful than high-end blenders, but for most home tasks, it does the job perfectly.
Hamilton Beach Power Elite Blender & Food Processor, 40oz
- ✓ Mess-free pouring spout
- ✓ Powerful blending performance
- ✓ Dual functionality saves space
- ✕ Loud operation
- ✕ Limited capacity for large batches
| Capacity | 40 oz. glass blending jar and 3-cup food chopper |
| Power | 700 watts peak power |
| Blending System | Wave~Action(R) system |
| Material | Heat-resistant glass jar, stainless steel blades |
| Special Features | Mess-free pour spout, dishwasher safe removable parts |
| Inclusions | Blender jar with lid, food chopper |
It’s Saturday morning, and I’ve got a mountain of smoothie ingredients on the counter. I reach for the Hamilton Beach Power Elite Blender & Food Processor, noticing how the glass jar feels sturdy yet lightweight in my hand.
The patented pour spout is a game-changer—no drips, no mess, just a clean pour every time.
The 700-watt motor kicks in smoothly, effortlessly crushing ice and frozen fruit without any hesitation. It’s loud, but you’d expect that with this kind of power.
The Wave~Action system keeps everything moving, so my smoothies come out ultra-creamy, no chunks or watery bits.
Switching to the food chopper is simple—just swap out the jar and pop on the lid. It handles garlic, onions, and even nuts with ease, chopping everything evenly.
I love how space-efficient this combo is; it replaces two appliances on my counter, freeing up room.
Cleaning is a breeze, too. The blades and jars are dishwasher safe, which is ideal after a messy smoothie session or chopping vegetables.
The glass jar feels heat-resistant and sturdy, so I don’t worry about cracks or leaks.
Overall, this blender and food processor combo is versatile and reliable. It’s perfect for busy mornings, small kitchens, or anyone who wants quick, smooth results without cluttering the countertop.
The only minor annoyance? The noise level is pretty high, but that’s a small price for the power it packs.
Cuisinart 14-Cup Food Processor DFP-14BCNY
- ✓ Powerful 720-watt motor
- ✓ Large 14-cup capacity
- ✓ Easy to clean
- ✕ Non-adjustable blades
- ✕ Slightly pricey
| Motor Power | 720 watts |
| Capacity | 14 cups |
| Blade Types | Stainless steel slicing disc (4mm), medium shredding disc, stainless steel chopping/mixing blade |
| Feed Tube Size | Extra-large feed tube with bowl sleeve assembly |
| Warranty | 3-year limited on entire unit, 5-year full on motor |
| Control Features | On and off/pulse buttons |
The first time I grabbed the Cuisinart 14-Cup Food Processor, I was surprised by how sturdy it felt in my hands. Its sleek stainless steel body has a solid weight to it, and the large, easy-to-press buttons made me feel confident I could handle anything from chopping vegetables to pureeing soups.
Dropping in a batch of carrots and pressing the pulse button, I immediately noticed how powerful the 720-watt motor was. The blades spun effortlessly, chopping everything evenly without stalling.
I appreciated the extra-large feed tube, which allowed me to add whole chunks without pre-cutting, saving me time.
The included discs—slicing, shredding, and chopping—are sharp and fit securely onto the stem. Switching between them was quick, and cleanup was a breeze because the parts are dishwasher-safe.
The bowl’s capacity of 14 cups meant I could prep large quantities at once, perfect for family meals or batch cooking.
Using it as a blender, I made a smooth hummus in seconds, and the versatility really shines for multiple tasks. The on and off/pulse buttons gave me precise control, and the bowl sleeve assembly kept everything stable during operation.
Honestly, it’s a powerhouse that makes food prep feel less like a chore and more like fun.
Only downside? The blades aren’t adjustable, so you need to be careful with slicing thickness.
Also, at $247.60, it’s an investment, but for what it does, I think it’s worth every penny.
Bonsenkitchen Handheld Immersion Blender with Food Processor
- ✓ Powerful 500W motor
- ✓ Multiple attachments
- ✓ Easy to clean
- ✕ Limited to 1-minute cycles
- ✕ Slightly loud during turbo
| Power | 500 Watts high-torque motor |
| Speed Settings | 20 variable speeds with a separate Turbo button |
| Blades Material | Stainless steel with semi-wrapped blade guard |
| Operation Time Limit | Less than 1 minute per cycle, with 30-minute rest after 5 cycles |
| Attachments Capacity | Food chopper bowl: 17 oz, Beaker: 24 oz |
| Body Material | Stainless steel |
It’s a Saturday afternoon, and I’ve got a mountain of ingredients on the counter—fresh herbs, veggies, and some ice for smoothies. I grab the Bonsenkitchen Handheld Immersion Blender and start attaching its various parts, feeling how sturdy and lightweight the stainless steel body is.
The 4-in-1 design really shines here. Swapping between the food chopper, beaker, whisk, and blender is seamless—no fuss, just quick clicks.
I love how the 24oz beaker and 17oz chopper bowl make prep super convenient, especially when I want to blend or chop small batches without dirtying extra dishes.
The power is impressive. With 500 Watts and turbo mode, I breeze through ice and frozen fruit in seconds.
The 20-speed control gives me precision—perfect for delicate smoothies or thicker sauces. The turbo button is a game-changer for quick bursts of extra power, especially when I need to break down tough ingredients.
The stainless steel blades feel durable, and the semi-wrapped guard keeps splashes at bay. I appreciate how easy it is to detach the attachments for cleaning—no tricky parts, just rinse and go.
The design feels solid in hand, and the ergonomic grip makes blending comfortable even during longer sessions.
While the motor is powerful, I keep in mind the 1-minute operation limit per cycle—important to avoid overheating. Overall, this blender packs a punch for its price, making it a versatile and reliable kitchen helper.
What Key Features Should You Look for in the Best Food Processor?
When searching for the best food processor and mixer, consider the following key features:
- Motor Power: A strong motor is essential for efficient processing of various ingredients.
- Capacity: Depending on your cooking needs, the bowl size can significantly impact how much food you can prepare at once.
- Blade Quality: High-quality blades ensure precise cutting and durability over time.
- Attachments and Accessories: The range of attachments available can enhance versatility for different cooking tasks.
- Ease of Cleaning: Dishwasher-safe parts and easy-to-clean designs save time and effort.
- Safety Features: Safety locks and non-slip bases are important for secure operation during use.
- Control Settings: Variable speed settings and pulse functions provide greater control over food processing.
Motor Power: A strong motor, typically measured in watts, is crucial for handling tough ingredients like nuts or hard vegetables. It ensures that the food processor operates efficiently and can maintain consistent performance without overheating.
Capacity: Food processors come in various bowl sizes, usually ranging from 3 to 16 cups. Choosing the right capacity is important; a larger bowl is ideal for batch cooking or meal prep, while a smaller bowl may suffice for everyday tasks or smaller households.
Blade Quality: The quality of the blades affects the effectiveness of chopping, slicing, and dicing. Stainless steel blades are common for their durability, and some models offer interchangeable blades for different functions, improving versatility.
Attachments and Accessories: Many food processors include various attachments such as shredding discs, slicing discs, and dough blades. These accessories expand the functionality of the machine, allowing users to perform a wide range of culinary tasks beyond basic chopping.
Ease of Cleaning: Food processors with removable, dishwasher-safe parts facilitate quick and thorough cleaning. Smooth surfaces and fewer crevices also contribute to easier maintenance, making the device more user-friendly.
Safety Features: Safety locks prevent the food processor from operating unless the bowl and lid are securely in place. Non-slip bases ensure stability and prevent the processor from moving around during use, enhancing user safety.
Control Settings: Models with multiple speed settings and pulse functions offer greater control over how finely or coarsely ingredients are processed. This versatility allows for better customization of food textures to suit different recipes and preferences.
What Distinguishes a High-Quality Mixer from Average Ones?
A high-quality mixer stands out from average ones through several key features and functionalities that enhance performance and user experience.
- Motor Power: A high-quality mixer typically has a more powerful motor, usually rated above 600 watts, which allows it to handle tougher mixing tasks, such as kneading bread dough or mixing thick batters without straining.
- Build Quality: High-quality mixers are often constructed with durable materials like stainless steel or heavy-duty plastic, ensuring longevity and stability during operation, while average mixers may use cheaper materials that can wear out or break more easily.
- Speed Settings: The best mixers provide multiple speed settings, allowing for precise control over mixing techniques, from gentle stirring to high-speed whipping, which is crucial for achieving the right consistency in various recipes.
- Attachments: Quality mixers usually come with a variety of attachments, such as dough hooks, whisks, and paddles, that expand their versatility, enabling users to perform multiple tasks like kneading, whipping, and mixing different ingredients.
- Ease of Use: High-end mixers often feature user-friendly designs, such as tilt-head or bowl-lift mechanisms that make it easier to access the mixing bowl and change attachments, while average mixers may lack such convenient designs.
- Noise Level: Premium mixers tend to operate more quietly due to better motor design and insulation, making them more pleasant to use over extended periods, whereas average mixers can be quite noisy during operation.
- Warranty and Customer Support: High-quality mixers usually come with longer warranties and better customer support, reflecting the manufacturer’s confidence in their product’s durability and performance, which is often lacking in average models.
How Do Food Processors and Mixers Compare in Functionality?
| Functionality | Food Processor | Mixer |
|---|---|---|
| Chopping and Slicing | Excellent for chopping, slicing, and shredding a variety of ingredients. | Primarily designed for mixing and whipping ingredients, less effective for chopping. |
| Mixing Capability | Can mix ingredients but not as effectively as a mixer. | Specialized for mixing doughs and batters with various speed settings. |
| Versatility | Highly versatile; can perform multiple tasks including pureeing and kneading. | Less versatile; mainly focused on mixing and whipping tasks. |
| Blending Capability | Can blend liquids and create smooth purees. | Not designed for blending; primarily for mixing dry and wet ingredients. |
| Ease of Cleaning | Generally has removable parts that are dishwasher safe, making it easy to clean. | Can be harder to clean due to attachments; some parts may not be dishwasher safe. |
| Price Range | Varies widely, usually between $30 to $500 depending on features. | Usually ranges from $50 to $600, with stand mixers being more expensive. |
| Common Uses | Ideal for meal prep, making sauces, and chopping vegetables. | Best for baking, making whipped cream, and mixing batters. |
| Noise Level | Can be relatively loud depending on the motor power. | Generally quieter, especially at lower speeds. |
What Are the Unique Benefits of Using a Premium Food Processor?
Premium food processors offer several unique benefits that enhance cooking and food preparation experiences.
- Powerful Motor: Premium food processors are equipped with high-performance motors that can handle tough ingredients like nuts, dense vegetables, and even dough. This ensures faster and more efficient processing, saving time in meal preparation.
- Versatile Attachments: Many premium models come with a variety of attachments including slicing disks, shredding blades, and dough hooks. This versatility allows users to easily switch between tasks such as slicing vegetables, making dough, or preparing sauces, all with one appliance.
- Advanced Features: Features like variable speed settings, pulse functions, and preset programs provide greater control over food texture and consistency. This means you can achieve the perfect chop or blend with just the right amount of processing.
- Durability and Quality: Premium food processors are often constructed with high-quality materials that promote longevity and reliability. They are designed to withstand regular use without compromising performance, making them a worthwhile investment for serious cooks.
- Safety Features: Many premium models include safety mechanisms such as secure locking systems and non-slip bases. These features enhance user safety during operation, preventing accidents and ensuring a stable working environment.
- Easy to Clean: Premium food processors typically have dishwasher-safe components and easy-to-disassemble parts, which make cleaning a breeze. This convenience encourages regular use without the hassle of complicated cleanup processes.
- Enhanced Capacity: Larger bowl capacities are common in premium models, allowing users to process bigger batches of food in one go. This is particularly beneficial for meal prepping or when entertaining guests, as it reduces the time spent on repeated processing.
- Noise Reduction: Many high-end food processors are designed to operate more quietly compared to budget models. This quieter operation is a significant advantage for those who prefer a more peaceful cooking environment.
How Can an Exceptional Mixer Enhance Your Cooking Capabilities?
An exceptional mixer can significantly improve your cooking capabilities by providing versatility and efficiency in food preparation.
- Versatility: A high-quality mixer can handle a variety of tasks, from mixing dough to whipping cream and even blending sauces. This multifunctionality saves time and effort, allowing you to focus more on the creative aspects of cooking.
- Consistency: Using a reliable mixer ensures that your ingredients are combined evenly, which is crucial for achieving the desired texture and flavor in your dishes. This consistency can lead to better results in baking and cooking, enhancing the overall quality of your meals.
- Time Efficiency: An exceptional mixer can speed up the cooking process by reducing manual labor. Tasks like kneading dough or mixing batter that would take time by hand can be completed in a fraction of the time, allowing you to prepare meals more quickly.
- Power and Performance: The best mixers come equipped with powerful motors that can handle tough ingredients, such as thick doughs or fibrous vegetables. This strength ensures that the mixer performs well under various conditions, making it a reliable tool in your kitchen.
- Ease of Use: Most modern mixers are designed with user-friendly controls and features, making them accessible for cooks of all skill levels. Features such as speed settings and attachments allow for customization according to the specific needs of each recipe.
- Durability: Investing in a top-notch mixer often means acquiring a long-lasting appliance that can withstand frequent use. Many high-quality mixers are built with robust materials that ensure they remain functional and effective over many years of cooking.
- Space-Saving Design: Some of the best mixers are designed to be compact and easily stored, making them perfect for kitchens with limited counter space. This practicality means you can have a powerful cooking tool without sacrificing your kitchen’s layout.
What Do Customer Reviews Reveal About Popular Food Processors and Mixers?
Customer reviews often highlight the strengths and weaknesses of popular food processors and mixers, providing insights into their performance and reliability.
- Performance: Many customers praise the efficiency and speed of food processors and mixers, noting how quickly they can chop, blend, or mix ingredients. Reviewers commonly mention that high-powered motors allow for smooth operation, even with tougher ingredients like nuts or dense dough.
- Ease of Use: Users frequently comment on the user-friendly designs of these appliances, including intuitive controls and easy assembly. Many reviews highlight features such as dishwasher-safe components and lightweight designs that make them convenient for daily use.
- Noise Level: Customer feedback often addresses the noise produced by food processors and mixers during operation. While some models are noted for being surprisingly quiet, others are criticized for being loud, affecting the overall user experience, especially in quieter kitchen environments.
- Durability: Reviews frequently touch on the build quality and longevity of food processors and mixers. Many customers appreciate models made from sturdy materials that can withstand regular use without breaking down, while others express frustration over parts that wear out quickly or malfunction.
- Versatility: Users often highlight how multifunctional a food processor or mixer can be, with attachments that allow for slicing, shredding, and kneading. This versatility is often a deciding factor for customers who want an all-in-one kitchen appliance.
- Price Point: Customer reviews typically discuss the value for money offered by various models. Some enthusiasts recommend higher-end products for their superior performance and features, while budget-conscious buyers point out affordable options that still deliver satisfactory results.
- Customer Support: Feedback on customer service experiences can significantly influence buyer decisions. Positive reviews often mention helpful support when dealing with warranty issues or product inquiries, while negative experiences can lead to dissatisfaction and discourage potential buyers.
How Do You Decide Between a Food Processor and a Mixer for Your Kitchen Needs?
When choosing between a food processor and a mixer for your kitchen needs, it’s important to understand their distinct functions and capabilities.
- Food Processor: A food processor is designed for chopping, slicing, grating, and pureeing a variety of ingredients quickly.
- Stand Mixer: A stand mixer is primarily used for mixing, kneading, and whipping ingredients, especially for baking purposes.
- Versatility: Food processors often come with multiple attachments that allow for various food preparation tasks, while mixers are typically specialized for dough and batter tasks.
- Size and Storage: Food processors generally have a more compact design, which may be easier to store, whereas stand mixers can be bulkier and require more counter space.
- Ease of Cleaning: Many food processors have dishwasher-safe parts, making cleanup relatively easy, while stand mixers may involve more components that require manual cleaning.
The food processor excels in tasks that require cutting and chopping, making it ideal for meal prep, salads, and dips. It can quickly shred cheese or slice vegetables, saving significant time in the kitchen.
Stand mixers are a baker’s best friend, providing powerful mixing capabilities for doughs, batters, and whipped cream. With various attachments available, they can also handle tasks like kneading bread dough or making pasta, but they are less suited for chopping or slicing tasks.
When considering versatility, a food processor can replace multiple kitchen tools, while a mixer is more limited to mixing tasks. If your cooking style involves a lot of chopping and preparation of various ingredients, a food processor might be the better choice.
In terms of size and storage, if you have limited counter space or kitchen storage, a food processor’s compact design may be more advantageous. However, if you frequently bake, investing in a stand mixer could be worthwhile even if it occupies more space.
For ease of cleaning, food processors often have removable parts that can be easily washed in a dishwasher, while stand mixers might have attachments that require hand washing. Consider how much time you want to spend cleaning up after cooking when making your decision.
Related Post: