Whenever I bring a new blender into my kitchen, I judge it by how well it can handle more than just smoothies. Sure, crushing ice is impressive, but I want a machine that can also help me prep meals, knead dough, and make spreads without making me pull out three different appliances.
That’s what drew me to the Ninja SS401 and Ninja SS351—two high-performance systems that look very similar on paper. But after testing them both, I realized their personalities are quite different. If you’re stuck deciding between these two, let me share what it was like using each in my kitchen.
Key Difference at a Glance: Ninja SS401 vs SS351 Blender System
The Ninja SS401 is the more advanced, feature-packed model, offering enhanced food processing with slicing, shredding, and grating discs, plus a slightly stronger motor (1600 peak watts). The Ninja SS351 is lighter and more compact, with a 1400-peak-watt motor, fewer accessories, and a focus on blending and smoothie bowls. In short: SS401 is for those who want maximum versatility in food prep, while SS351 is better for everyday blending and lighter use.
- ENHANCED FOOD PROCESSING: The enhanced processing lid with feed chute and select-cut processing discs allow for precise shredding, slicing, and grating.
- NINJA’S MOST POWERFUL SYSTEM: Ninja's Most Powerful Blender system that crushes, food processes, and makes smoothie bowls and dough – all in one base.
Comparison Table: Ninja SS401 vs SS351 Blender System
| Feature | Ninja SS401 | Ninja SS351 |
| Peak Watt Motor | 1600 watts | 1400 watts |
| Pitcher Size | 72 oz Power Blender & Processor Pitcher | 72 oz Power Blender & Processor Pitcher |
| Food Processor Accessories | Feed chute lid, slicing/shredding disc, grating disc, dough blade | Basic blending and dough functions only |
| Smoothie Bowl Maker | 18 oz with built-in tamper | 14 oz with built-in tamper |
| Nutrient Extraction Cup | 24 oz | 24 oz |
| Preset Programs | 7 Auto-iQ functions | 6 Auto-iQ functions |
| Variable Speed Control | Yes | Yes |
| Weight | 12.1 lbs | 8.2 lbs |
| Dimensions | 8.7″D x 8.3″W x 16.14″H | 8.19″D x 8.43″W x 14.17″H |
| Dishwasher Safe | Yes | Yes |
| Best For | Advanced food prep + blending | Smoothies, bowls, dough, everyday use |
| Check Price & Reviews | Buy on Amazon | Buy on Amazon |
Detailed Comparative Review
Design and Build
Right away, I noticed the SS401 is larger and heavier. At just over 12 lbs, it felt like a serious countertop appliance. Its silver finish looks sharp, and the added height comes from the upgraded lid and feed chute system. If you’ve got tight cabinet space, double-check your clearance because this one stands tall.
The SS351 is lighter and more compact, weighing just over 8 lbs. I found it easier to move in and out of storage, which could be a big deal for smaller kitchens. It doesn’t have the same advanced food processor lid, but for most blending tasks, it looks and feels premium without being bulky.
- ENHANCED FOOD PROCESSING: The enhanced processing lid with feed chute and select-cut processing discs allow for precise shredding, slicing, and grating.
- NINJA’S MOST POWERFUL SYSTEM: Ninja's Most Powerful Blender system that crushes, food processes, and makes smoothie bowls and dough – all in one base.
Ease of Use
Both blenders use Ninja’s Auto-iQ programs and variable speed control, which I love because it takes the guesswork out of recipes. I could press a single button and let the blender handle smoothies or bowls while I cleaned up the kitchen.
The SS401 gave me more control with its extra processing discs and chute. For example, I shredded carrots directly into the pitcher without needing a separate food processor. But this also meant more parts to assemble and wash.
The SS351 felt quicker to use when I just needed a smoothie or shake. With fewer accessories, I didn’t spend time figuring out which attachment to grab—it was straight to blending.
Functions and Performance
This is where the two blenders truly separate themselves.
- SS401 Performance:
The 1600-watt motor made a noticeable difference when I tried tougher tasks. It shredded cheese like butter and handled thick nut butters without hesitation. The slicing and grating discs also impressed me, saving me from pulling out my manual grater. The 18 oz smoothie bowl maker with built-in tamper is a gem—it powered through frozen fruit with very little liquid, giving me thick, creamy bowls. - SS351 Performance:
The SS351 isn’t weak by any means—its 1400-watt motor still handled frozen fruit, leafy greens, and dough beautifully. I made a batch of pizza dough in under a minute, and my smoothies came out just as silky as with the SS401. The main limitation is its lack of food processor discs. If you don’t often slice or shred veggies, you might not miss them.
Both models excel at nutrient extraction. The 24 oz cups are perfect for morning smoothies, and they blend down seeds and fibrous greens into smooth drinks without grit.
- ENHANCED FOOD PROCESSING: The enhanced processing lid with feed chute and select-cut processing discs allow for precise shredding, slicing, and grating.
- NINJA’S MOST POWERFUL SYSTEM: Ninja's Most Powerful Blender system that crushes, food processes, and makes smoothie bowls and dough – all in one base.
Space Considerations
The SS401 definitely takes up more room with its extra discs and larger base. I had to dedicate a cabinet drawer just to keep all the accessories organized.
The SS351 is easier to live with if space is tight. Since it comes with fewer attachments, I didn’t feel like I needed to rearrange my kitchen to accommodate it.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Both blenders are dishwasher safe, which is always a win in my book. I did notice the SS401 required more cleanup time because of its multiple discs and feed chute parts. Food occasionally got stuck around the lid, so I had to rinse it thoroughly before placing it in the dishwasher.
The SS351 was quicker to clean with fewer components. If you value speed and convenience, this model feels more practical.
Ninja SS401 Blender Food Processor Combo
- ENHANCED FOOD PROCESSING: The enhanced processing lid with feed chute and select-cut processing discs allow for precise shredding, slicing, and grating.
Pros:
- More powerful 1600-watt motor.
- Enhanced food processing with slicing, shredding, and grating.
- XL 18 oz smoothie bowl maker with built-in tamper.
- Larger capacity pitcher.
- Great for meal prep and heavy-duty use.
Cons:
- Heavier and bulkier.
- More accessories mean more storage space required.
- Slightly longer cleanup time.
Ninja SS351 Blender Food Processor Combo
- NINJA’S MOST POWERFUL SYSTEM: Ninja's Most Powerful Blender system that crushes, food processes, and makes smoothie bowls and dough – all in one base.
Pros:
- Lighter and more compact design.
- Still powerful with a 1400-watt motor.
- Excellent for smoothies, bowls, dough, and nutrient extractions.
- Easier to store and clean.
- More budget-friendly.
Cons:
- No slicing, shredding, or grating discs.
- Smaller smoothie bowl maker (14 oz vs 18 oz).
- Less versatile for advanced food prep.
My Recommendation / Conclusion
After putting both blenders through their paces, I’d say the decision comes down to how much you cook versus how much you blend.
- If you’re someone who loves meal prepping, experimenting with recipes, and using one appliance to replace multiple tools, the Ninja SS401 is worth the extra money and space. The processing discs make chopping, slicing, and grating effortless, and the stronger motor gives you confidence with tougher tasks.
- If you primarily want a blender for smoothies, smoothie bowls, and the occasional dough, the Ninja SS351 does the job beautifully. It’s lighter, easier to clean, and doesn’t overwhelm your kitchen with accessories.
For me personally, I lean toward the SS401 because I cook often and enjoy the extra functionality. But if I lived in a smaller apartment or wanted something more straightforward, I’d be perfectly happy with the SS351.
Bottom line:
- Choose SS401 if versatility and power are your priority.
- Choose SS351 if convenience, compactness, and everyday blending matter more.
Either way, both models prove why Ninja has become a go-to brand for blenders that do far more than just blend.