For most people, the Ninja BN701 is the best blender for smoothies.
You want a smooth, thick shake without chunks. You want it fast, even on busy mornings. I get it. I have tested blenders that whine, stall, and leave bits of kale. That is not fun. The right blender turns frozen fruit into silk. It keeps texture even with seeds and ice. It cleans up fast. And it lasts. In this guide, I share what matters and why. I also share my real take on the best blender for smoothies in 2026.
Ninja BN701 Professional Plus Blender (1400W, 72 oz)
The Ninja BN701 has the muscle for thick smoothies. It packs 1400 peak watts and a tall six-blade stack. It turns ice into snow in seconds. It also blends tough greens without grit. You get a 72 oz Total Crushing pitcher. That size works for families and weekly prep.
Auto-iQ programs make it simple. You press one button, and the blender adjusts time and pulse. It has three preset functions for smoothies, frozen drinks, and ice cream. Manual speeds let you fine-tune. Cleanup is easy with dishwasher-safe parts.
Pros:
- Strong 1400W motor crushes ice and frozen fruit fast
- Auto-iQ programs give one-touch smooth results
- 72 oz pitcher suits families and batch prep
- Stacked blades pull ingredients down for even blends
- Pour spout lid and lock add safety and convenience
- Dishwasher-safe pitcher, lid, and blades
- Great value for power and capacity
Cons:
- Loud at full power, like most high-watt blenders
- Tall and bulky, needs storage space
- No personal cup in the box; sold separately
My Recommendation
If you want the best blender for smoothies without paying top-tier prices, this is it. The BN701 handles frozen mango, spinach, and chia with ease. It keeps texture smooth and thick. It stays stable on the counter at high speed. It is simple to use daily, even on tight schedules.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Large batches and families | 72 oz pitcher and strong pull-down action |
| Frozen fruit and ice | 1400W power and Total Crushing blades |
| Set-and-forget convenience | Auto-iQ programs make timing and pulses automatic |
The BN701 fits a wide range of needs. It excels at thick, cold blends. It makes daily smoothies quick and repeatable. For many people, it is the best blender for smoothies right now. Stocks and prices can change, so grab it when you see a good deal.
How I test and judge smoothie blenders
My tests mimic real life. I make the same smoothies that you do. I use frozen fruit, leafy greens, seeds, and ice. I check for smooth texture and no grit. I also time each blend to see speed and consistency.
I test noise with a simple meter and a phone. I note the tone and the shake. I watch for leaks and splashes. I also check cleanup time. I run each blender for weeks. I look for wear, smells, and stress on parts.
I judge value next. I compare power, jar size, and features to price. I factor in warranty and part costs. I check how easy it is to get a new blade or jar. Then I rank based on daily use and long-term feel.
Buying guide: What to look for in the best blender for smoothies
Power matters, but control matters too. A strong motor should not scorch or stall. It should pull soft and hard items into the blades. That is how you get a smooth sip. The best blender for smoothies hits that sweet spot.
Motor power and torque
For frozen fruit and ice, aim for 1000 watts or more. Peak watts show max draw. Real torque shows under load. You want steady speed while blending. That stops clumps and dead zones.
Overheating is a red flag. Good blenders have vents and smart cutoffs. They handle thick blends without burning smell. They also cool fast between cycles. That keeps the motor healthy for years.
Blade design and flow
Blade shape sets the blend path. Stacked blades pull ingredients down. It helps when the jar is tall. Four to six blades can work well. Sharp edges help with greens. Thick edges crush ice better.
A vortex is key. The mix should spin down, not ride the walls. Ribs in the pitcher help. Pulse cycles help break pockets. The best blender for smoothies creates a strong vortex fast.
Pitcher size and material
Think about who you serve. A 72 oz pitcher suits families and prep. A 48–64 oz jar fits most homes. Personal cups help on busy days. Some packages include cups; some do not.
Most jars use BPA-free Tritan. It is light and tough. Glass is rare in high power units due to weight and stress. If you want glass, pick lower wattage models. Always check the lid lock and seal.
Programs and controls
Presets help a lot. Good programs add pulses and pauses. They keep the flow going. They also save time and guesswork. Manual speed and pulse still matter for finesse.
Look for simple buttons. You should feel sure with wet hands. A clear display helps at dawn. The best blender for smoothies keeps controls easy and useful.
Noise and vibration
High power makes noise. But tone and shake differ a lot. A well-balanced jar cuts harsh sounds. Rubber feet help reduce walk. A firm base adds stability at top speed.
Plan for early mornings. Pick a spot away from a wall if you can. A rubber mat can help. A low cabinet can act like a drum, so leave space.
Cleaning and care
Dishwasher-safe parts save time. A wide jar is easier to wash by hand. Watch for blade towers and tight corners. A small brush helps. A fast rinse right after use helps even more.
Do not soak the base. Wipe it with a damp cloth. Keep the vents clear. A little care adds years to life. The best blender for smoothies makes cleaning simple.
Durability and warranty
Check the feel of the parts. A solid lid lock is a must. The handle should feel firm. The jar should not flex too much under load. Blades should stay tight.
Warranty terms matter. Read what it covers. Motors and electronics should have a solid term. Replacement parts should be easy to buy. Support should be quick to reach.
Price and value
You do not need the most expensive model. You need the right power and jar. You need programs that help. You need parts that last and clean fast. That is value.
When I rate value, I look at daily joy. Do you use it more because it is easy? Does it save time and waste? The best blender for smoothies pays off fast in real life.
Real-world smoothie tests I use
Frozen berry blast: frozen strawberries, blueberries, a banana, and oat milk. I check for seed grit. I look for even color and swirl. It should pour like yogurt. No chunks. No bubbles on top.
Green power: spinach, kale, pineapple, avocado, and water. Greens can make a drink stringy. I look for silk, not foam. The best blender for smoothies makes this blend shine. Color should be bright and even.
Protein thick shake: peanut butter, banana, ice, and protein powder. I check for chalk and clumps. I test straw feel. It should be thick but sippable. The motor should not smell hot.
Tips to get a perfect smoothie every time
- Add liquids first to help the vortex form fast
- Layer soft items next, frozen items on top
- Use pulse bursts to break the initial pocket
- Do short stops to scrape only if needed
- Do not overfill past the max line
- Let frozen fruit thaw two minutes for easier starts
Common mistakes that ruin texture
- Too little liquid leads to stalls and clumps
- Overfilling the jar blocks the vortex path
- Adding powders too early causes caking on the base
- Running on low speed too long warms and foams
- Not pulsing leaves a ring of dry bits at the top
Noise, space, and fit: what to know before buying
Measure your cabinet gap. The BN701 is tall with the lid on. You may need to store the jar beside the base. That is common with big pitchers. Weight also matters if you move it often.
Noise is part of power. Plan for a two-minute routine. Close a door if you blend at 6 a.m. A soft mat helps tame harsh tone. The best blender for smoothies still makes a roar, but for a short time.
Care, cleaning, and long-term health
Rinse right after you pour. Fill halfway with warm water and a drop of soap. Run on pulse for ten seconds. Rinse and air-dry the parts. That stops stains and smells.
Dishwash on the top rack if allowed. The BN701 pitcher, lid, and blades are dishwasher-safe. Do not put the base in water. Keep the vent clear and dry. This care keeps it fresh for years.
Troubleshooting quick guide
- Blender will not start: check lid lock and jar placement
- Stalls or cavitates: add 1–2 oz more liquid, pulse to reset flow
- Leaking at lid: reduce fill and check gasket seat
- Overheating smell: stop, let it cool 15 minutes, reduce load
- Uneven texture: use preset or add a 10-second high-speed finish
When to pick a personal blender instead
If you only blend for one person, a 16–24 oz cup can help. It saves space and clean up. You can blend and go with a to-go lid. Noise is often less harsh too.
But big ice and large frozen chunks can strain small units. If you love thick shakes, stick with a full-size jar. The best blender for smoothies keeps a strong, stable base.
Do you need a premium blender?
High-end blenders can be great, but they cost more. They can grind nuts and heat soup. They can run longer without stress. They can bring better fit and finish.
Ask if you need those extras. If smoothies and ice drinks are your main goal, a mid-priced unit like the BN701 hits the mark. It is the best blender for smoothies for most homes right now.
Safety notes for daily blending
- Keep hands and tools out of the jar when running
- Unplug before removing blades for washing
- Check the lid lock every time
- Do not blend hot liquids in a sealed jar
- Watch the max fill line for safety and flow
Smoothie starter recipes to test your blender
Velvet Green: 1 cup spinach, 1/2 cup kale, 1/2 avocado, 1 cup pineapple, 3/4 cup water. Blend on the smoothie preset. Add water if needed. It should be bright and silky.
Berry Protein: 1 cup frozen mixed berries, 1 banana, 1 scoop protein powder, 1 cup almond milk. Pulse, then run high. Look for no seed grit. It should coat the glass.
Mango Freeze: 1 cup frozen mango, 1/2 cup frozen pineapple, 1/2 cup yogurt, 1 cup milk, squeeze of honey. Use Auto-iQ frozen drink. It should be thick and spoonable.
How the Ninja BN701 stacks up in 2026
As of 2026, the BN701 still offers standout value. Its presets, power, and 72 oz jar beat many rivals near its price. Some models add more bells. But they often do not blend faster or smoother.
For daily smoothies, I want quick, smooth, and repeatable. The BN701 does that job well. It is the best blender for smoothies for busy homes. It keeps its spot on my counter for that reason.
FAQs Of best blender for smoothies
What wattage is best for frozen fruit smoothies?
Go for at least 1000 watts. For thick blends with ice, 1200–1400 watts works best.
Do presets like Auto-iQ really help?
Yes. Good presets time pulses and pauses. They create flow and prevent stalls.
Is a glass pitcher better than plastic?
Most high-power blenders use Tritan plastic. It is light, tough, and safe. Glass is heavier and rarer in strong units.
How do I reduce foam in green smoothies?
Use cold liquid, avoid over-blending, and add a bit of fat like yogurt or avocado.
Can the Ninja BN701 make nut butter?
It can, but it is not its main job. Do small batches and use pulses. Add oil to help flow.
Final Verdict: Which Should You Buy?
The Ninja BN701 gives power, presets, and a big jar at a fair price. It blends frozen fruit and greens fast. It is easy to clean. It fits busy lives.
For most homes, it is the best blender for smoothies in 2026. If you want thick, smooth results with little fuss, this one earns its spot.
