If you’re serious about frozen desserts, you’ve likely heard of the Ninja CREAMi line. These machines go far beyond simple ice cream makers—they can handle everything from sorbets and milkshakes to smoothie bowls and slushies.
In this blog post, we compare three top Ninja models:
👉 Ninja NC301
👉 Ninja NC701
👉 Ninja NC501
Let’s dive into the features, differences, and which one might be the best fit for your kitchen.
1. Ninja CREAMi NC301 – A Compact, Everyday Ice Cream Maker
The NC301 is the most compact and beginner-friendly model in the Ninja CREAMi line. It’s perfect for personal use or small families who want delicious frozen treats without a complicated setup.
Key Features:
- 7 One-Touch Programs: Ice Cream, Sorbet, Gelato, Milkshake, Smoothie Bowl, Lite Ice Cream, and Mix-In
- Re-Spin Function: For ultra-smooth results
- Pint Capacity: 16 oz
- Easy to Use & Clean: Dishwasher-safe containers
Pros:
- Great entry-level model
- Perfect for keto, dairy-free, and low-sugar recipes
- Simple interface
Cons:
- Smaller capacity (not ideal for families)
- Can be loud
- FUNCTIONALITY: Turn almost anything into ice cream, sorbet, milkshakes, and more..Wattage: 800 watts. Voltage: 120 vol…
- CUSTOMIZATION: With the Ninja CREAMi, you can have total control of your ingredients from decadent gelato to low sugar…
- MIX-INS: Customize your flavor and texture by mixing in your favorite chocolate, nuts, candy, fruit, and more to perso…
- 7 ONE-TOUCH PROGRAMS: (7) one-touch programs allow for the perfect combination of speed, pressure, and time to complet…
2. Ninja CREAMi Deluxe NC701 – Bigger Capacity, More Features
The NC701 Deluxe is designed for those who want more variety and a bigger batch size. With 11 programs, this machine can create everything from frozen drinks to “Creamiccino” coffee-style treats.
Key Features:
- 11 One-Touch Programs: Including Frozen Drink, Creamiccino, and Slushie
- Larger Pint Capacity: 24 oz
- Re-Spin & Mix-In Functions
- Dual-Drive Motors & Creamify Technology
Pros:
- Larger batches = perfect for families
- More dessert types
- Quiet operation
Cons:
- Takes up more counter space
- Higher price point
- SCOOP OR SWIRL: Customize flavors and choose between classic scoops or soft serve outputs. With 13 versatile one-touch p…
- 6 ADDED SOFT SERVE PROGRAMS: Go beyond classic scooped ice cream with Soft Serve, Fruit Whip, Frozen Custard, CreamiFit,…
- CUSTOMIZATION: Create customizable treats as unique as you are. Control ingredients for low sugar, dairy-free, lower cal…
- SOFT SERVE AT HOME: Bring the ice cream shop to your countertop and unlock soft serve at home.
- CREAMIFIT PROGRAM: A revolutionary way to enjoy ice cream. This program is engineered to process lower calorie, high pro…
- MIX-INS: Customize the flavor and texture of your CREAMi Classics by mixing in your favorite chocolate, nuts, candy, fru…
3. Ninja CREAMi Deluxe NC501 – Top-Tier Functionality
The NC501 is Ninja’s most advanced CREAMi machine. It includes all the features of the NC701 but with even smoother textures, refined design, and the ability to process even tougher ingredients thanks to improved blade mechanics.
Key Features:
- 11 One-Touch Programs
- 2 XL Pints: 24 oz each
- Advanced Creamify™ Technology
- Top-Rack Dishwasher Safe Components
- Ideal for: Ice Cream, Frozen Yogurt, Sorbet, Slush, and more
Pros:
- Professional-grade quality
- Ideal for frequent users or larger families
- Consistent texture every time
Cons:
- Premium price
- Takes longer to process due to higher detail
- ADDED PROGRAMS: Unlock a variety of CREAMi frozen treats with 5 new programs.
- XL CAPACITY: Family-sized treats for everyone to enjoy. New 24 oz. CREAMi XL Tubs hold 50% more ice cream than the origi…
- DUAL PROCESSING: Use the same base to make two separate mix-in flavors—add candy to the top portion and serve first, the…
- CUSTOMIZATION: With the Ninja CREAMi Deluxe, you can have total control of your ingredients for low sugar, protein-packe…
Final Verdict: Which Ninja CREAMi Should You Buy?
| Feature | NC301 | NC701 Deluxe | NC501 Deluxe |
|---|---|---|---|
| Programs | 7 | 11 | 11 |
| Capacity | 16 oz | 24 oz | 24 oz (2 pints) |
| Re-spin Option | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Mix-ins | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Best For | Personal use | Families, variety lovers | Serious dessert makers |
Recommendation:
- Choose NC301 if you’re just starting out or making small batches.
- Go for NC701 if you need more variety and serve more people.
- Pick NC501 for the most advanced features and texture perfection.