Frozen drink machines have come a long way from clunky, noisy gadgets that required bags of ice and endless stirring. The Ninja SLUSHi series is proof of that evolution. I had the chance to try out two of Ninja’s popular models—the Ninja FS301 (88 oz) and the Ninja FS300 (72 oz)—and while they look quite similar on the surface, they actually serve slightly different needs.
If you’re considering adding one of these to your kitchen or entertainment setup, this guide breaks down the differences, similarities, pros and cons, and my personal experience using both.
Key Difference at a Glance: Ninja FS301 vs FS300 SLUSHi Machine
The Ninja FS301 is the premium model with 5 preset programs, a larger 88 oz capacity, and a WhisperChill compressor that keeps your drinks frozen for up to 12 hours with minimal noise. It also comes with extra controls for customizing texture and consistency.
The Ninja FS300, on the other hand, is slightly smaller at 72 oz, with 3 preset programs. It still uses the same RapidChill Technology and delivers smooth, icy drinks, but with fewer presets and without some of the premium touches like the WhisperChill system.
In short:
- FS301 = Larger, quieter, more presets, more premium features.
- FS300 = Smaller, simpler, more budget-friendly.
- NO ICE NEEDED: RapidChill Technology is our innovative two-part system that spins an auger around a cooling cylinder to freeze liquid evenly and maintain...
- Innovative RapidChill Technology ❄️: A two-part system spins the auger around the cooling cylinder, freezing liquids quickly without the need for ice,...
Comparison Table: Ninja FS301 vs FS300 SLUSHi Machine
| Feature | Ninja FS301 SLUSHi (Premium) | Ninja FS300 SLUSHi (Professional) |
| Capacity | 88 oz | 72 oz |
| Preset Programs | 5 | 3 |
| Technology | RapidChill + WhisperChill compressor | RapidChill only |
| Texture Control | Yes | Yes |
| Keep Drinks Frozen | Up to 12 hours | Up to 12 hours |
| Noise Level | Quieter (WhisperChill) | Standard |
| Cleaning | Dishwasher-safe parts, detachable lid & drip tray | Dishwasher-safe parts, detachable lid & drip tray |
| Premium Accents | Yes (dial + pour handle) | Basic design |
| Recipe Guide | 10 recipes included | Basic guidance |
| Best For | Entertaining large groups, versatility, quieter operation | Smaller households, casual use, value pick |
| Check Price & Deals | Buy on Amazon | Buy on Amazon |
Detailed Comparative Review
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Design and Build Quality
The FS301 feels like a high-end appliance right out of the box. It has premium accents, a sturdy pour handle, and a sleek black finish that looks great on the counter. The vessel is large at 88 oz, which made it perfect when I hosted a weekend BBQ and needed to churn out margaritas for a crowd.
The FS300 is more compact with its 72 oz vessel, which I found easier to store in my pantry when not in use. The design is a bit more straightforward—less premium flair—but still practical and sturdy. If space is a priority, the FS300 is easier to accommodate.
- NO ICE NEEDED: RapidChill Technology is our innovative two-part system that spins an auger around a cooling cylinder to freeze liquid evenly and maintain...
- Innovative RapidChill Technology ❄️: A two-part system spins the auger around the cooling cylinder, freezing liquids quickly without the need for ice,...
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Ease of Use
Both machines are incredibly simple to operate. You pour in your liquid (remember, some form of sugar is necessary to achieve proper slush consistency), select a preset program, and wait as the auger spins around the cooling cylinder to create your icy drink.
With the FS301, the 5 presets cover a wider range of drinks—from frappés to cocktails. I liked the flexibility when experimenting with juices, iced coffee, and even chocolate milk. The temperature control dial also gave me more freedom to fine-tune the texture.
The FS300, with its 3 presets, covers the essentials but felt more limiting when I wanted to try different recipes. Still, for basic slushies, it delivered consistent, smooth results.
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Performance & Frozen Drink Quality
Performance-wise, both rely on Ninja’s RapidChill Technology, which eliminates the need for ice. This was a game-changer for me—no watered-down drinks, just pure flavor frozen into slush.
- FS301: I noticed the WhisperChill compressor really made a difference during long runs. It kept my drinks frozen for hours with barely any noise. Perfect for parties where you don’t want a machine humming in the background.
- FS300: Did just as well in freezing and maintaining drinks, but the motor was a little louder, and I didn’t get quite the same level of quiet cooling as with the FS301.
Both models kept drinks frozen for up to 12 hours, which is impressive, but I’d give the edge to the FS301 for its more refined cooling system.
- NO ICE NEEDED: RapidChill Technology is our innovative two-part system that spins an auger around a cooling cylinder to freeze liquid evenly and maintain...
- Innovative RapidChill Technology ❄️: A two-part system spins the auger around the cooling cylinder, freezing liquids quickly without the need for ice,...
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Cleaning and Maintenance
Cleanup is refreshingly easy with both. The vessels, lids, and drip trays are dishwasher safe, which I appreciated after sticky juice spills. The FS301’s detachable parts felt slightly sturdier and easier to reassemble, but overall, both machines were hassle-free to clean.
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Capacity and Hosting Power
Capacity was the biggest differentiator in my experience:
- FS301 (88 oz) handled large batches effortlessly—perfect when I made multiple servings of frozen cocktails for friends.
- FS300 (72 oz) worked fine for small family gatherings but required more frequent refills when hosting more than 4–5 people.
If you’re entertaining often, that extra 16 oz difference matters more than you’d think.
Ninja FS301 SLUSHi (Premium)
- NO ICE NEEDED: RapidChill Technology is our innovative two-part system that spins an auger around a cooling cylinder to freeze liquid evenly and maintain...
Pros:
- Larger 88 oz capacity for bigger batches.
- 5 preset programs for versatility.
- WhisperChill compressor keeps drinks frozen quietly.
- Premium design with accents and pour handle.
- Includes recipe inspiration guide.
Cons:
- Bulkier—takes up more counter space.
- Pricier compared to FS300.
- Longer cycles at max capacity (up to 60 minutes).
Ninja FS300 SLUSHi (Professional)
- Innovative RapidChill Technology ❄️: A two-part system spins the auger around the cooling cylinder, freezing liquids quickly without the need for ice,...
Pros:
- Compact design, easier to store.
- Still delivers smooth frozen drinks with RapidChill tech.
- 3 preset programs cover the basics.
- Keeps drinks frozen for up to 12 hours.
- More affordable option.
Cons:
- Smaller 72 oz capacity—better for families than large parties.
- Louder compared to FS301.
- Fewer presets and no WhisperChill system.
Conclusion: My Recommendation:
After using both models, I’d sum it up like this:
- If you’re the host type, regularly making drinks for friends, or want the quietest, most premium experience, the Ninja FS301 is worth the investment. Its bigger capacity, extra presets, and WhisperChill compressor make it a party powerhouse.
- If you’re more about occasional slushie nights, have a smaller household, or simply want a reliable frozen drink machine without the extra bells and whistles, the Ninja FS300 gets the job done beautifully and at a better price point.
Personally, I lean toward the FS301 because I like experimenting with different recipes and appreciate the quieter operation. But I can’t deny that the FS300 is a fantastic budget-friendly option for casual frozen drink lovers.