Ninja Pod & Grounds Specialty Coffee Maker Review

If you’re a coffee lover searching for a versatile and affordable brewing solution, the Ninja Pod & Grounds Specialty Coffee Maker may be just what you need. This innovative machine offers an impressive range of brewing options, allowing you to create everything from a classic cup of joe to a rich, espresso-like drink.

With its sleek design and user-friendly features, including a 56-ounce removable water tank and a built-in frother, it caters to both everyday coffee drinkers and those looking to elevate their home brewing experience. Priced under $100, the Ninja Pod & Grounds Specialty Coffee Maker delivers exceptional value, making it an ideal choice for anyone looking to enjoy high-quality coffee at home. In this review, we’ll explore its features, performance, and overall value to help you determine if it’s the right fit for your coffee routine.

Overall Design and Look

The Ninja coffee machine has a well-thought-out, compact design like Ninja CFP101. It feels sturdy and solid, perfect for everyday use. The smooth matte finish gives it a premium look, while the neutral color blends seamlessly into most kitchen settings.

The water reservoir is clear and easy to access. It's designed with precise measurements, making it simple to fill without spilling. The ergonomic handle adds to its convenience, allowing easy removal and replacement.

The front panel is sleek and minimal, with a single spout for both hot and iced coffee. The pod slot is easy to operate, and the brew chamber feels secure when closed. The drip tray at the base accommodates various cup sizes, and it’s easily removable for cleaning.

The Ninja coffee machine in the image measures approximately 5.6 inches in width, 13.7 inches in depth, and 13.35 inches in height. Its compact size makes it suitable for small kitchen spaces or countertops with limited room.

In terms of weight, the machine is relatively light, weighing around 7.78 pounds, making it easy to move or reposition when needed. Despite its lightweight build, it feels sturdy and well-constructed for daily use.

For the design of this Ninja coffee machine, I'd give it a solid 90/100. The compact size, modern matte finish, and intuitive layout make it both functional and aesthetically pleasing. Its clear water reservoir and adjustable drip tray add convenience like Ninja CFN601 , while the neutral color options fit easily into various kitchen styles. The only small area for improvement could be a slightly more premium feel to some of the plastic components, but overall, it's a well-designed, sleek machine that balances form and function beautifully.

Water Reservoir

The Ninja Pod & Grounds Specialty Coffee Maker features a 56-ounce removable water tank that significantly enhances its usability and convenience. This large capacity allows you to brew multiple cups of coffee without needing to refill frequently, making it ideal for busy mornings or when entertaining guests.

The removable design of the water tank is a standout feature like Keurig k-Slim Single Serve Coffee Maker. It makes filling and cleaning the tank hassle-free. You can easily take it to the sink for filling, ensuring that you have the right amount of water without any spills. Additionally, this feature simplifies maintenance, as you can wash the tank thoroughly, preventing any buildup of minerals or coffee residue that might affect the taste of your brews.

Having a 56-ounce tank means you can brew a full carafe of coffee in one go, depending on the brew size selected. This capacity is particularly useful if you enjoy larger quantities of coffee or if you often have friends or family over. It eliminates the need for constant refilling, allowing you to enjoy your coffee without interruptions.

The water tank also features clear measurement markings, so you can easily see how much water is available, helping you to avoid running low unexpectedly. Overall, the 56-ounce removable water tank enhances the Ninja Pod & Grounds Specialty Coffee Maker's user-friendly design, making it a practical choice for coffee lovers who appreciate convenience and efficiency in their brewing process.

User Interface 

The user interface of this machine is incredibly straightforward and easy to navigate. From the first time I used it, I appreciated how everything is laid out clearly on the control panel. At the top right, there's the power button, which lights up when you switch it on, letting you know the machine is ready. Directly beneath that is the “style” button, which allows you to toggle between brewing options—Classic, Rich, and Over Ice. It feels responsive and gives you quick access to change the strength and style of your brew depending on your mood or the type of drink you’re preparing.

What’s really nice is how the size selection works. With just a single press of the “size” button, you can choose between several preset options, ranging from 6 to 24 oz. I found this super helpful when making anything from a small cup to a larger travel mug. Each size is illuminated, so you know exactly what you’re selecting. Below that, there’s an “add water” light that blinks when the reservoir is low. It’s a simple but effective way to make sure you're always ready to brew without guessing if there’s enough water.

The “brew” button is large and positioned at the bottom for easy access. Once you’ve selected your preferences, hitting that button starts the process without any confusion or delays. Another feature I really liked was the "clean" button near the top left. When the machine needs cleaning, the light above this button turns on, and pressing it initiates a self-cleaning cycle. It takes the guesswork out of maintenance, and it was reassuring to know the machine will alert me when it needs attention.

The display is smooth, without too many distractions or complicated icons. It's minimalistic but functional, and after a few uses, I found I could operate it almost without thinking. The overall feel is intuitive, and the digital touchpoints respond quickly without needing excessive pressure. This design strikes the right balance between simplicity and control, making it approachable even for those who aren't tech-savvy but still appreciate a modern touch.

For the user interface, I would rate it 90/100. The sleek, modern display is very intuitive, with clear options for brew styles, sizes, and a simple touch-button system. It’s easy to navigate and doesn’t require much learning. The only minor drawback is that it might take a moment to get used to if you're new to using such machines, but overall, it's very user-friendly and efficient.

Coffee With Pods 

The pod brewing option is one of the standout features of this machine. It’s designed to make the process of brewing coffee as quick and convenient as possible, especially if you’re someone who enjoys single-serve coffee with minimal effort. The pod compartment is located at the top of the machine, and it has a smooth lid that easily lifts up when you’re ready to insert a coffee pod.

I’ve used various types of coffee pods with it, and the machine handles them without any issues. Just drop your favorite pod into the compartment, close the lid, and you’re set. One thing I liked is that the lid closes securely with a slight click, which reassures you that the pod is properly in place and ready to brew.

The machine gives you four different brewing sizes when using pods—6 oz, 8 oz, 10 oz, or 12 oz. This flexibility allows you to customize your coffee strength by simply adjusting the amount of water, which I found great depending on whether I wanted a stronger or lighter brew. The display will light up the corresponding size you choose, and with just one press of the “brew” button, the process begins.

Brewing with pods is incredibly fast, and within a minute or two, you have a fresh cup of coffee ready to go. It’s a mess-free experience because once you’re done, you just lift the lid again and toss the used pod out—no need to deal with coffee grounds or filters. This feature is ideal for anyone with a busy schedule or who prefers less cleanup after making coffee. The machine works seamlessly with a variety of pods, so you’re not locked into any specific brand, which adds to its versatility.

For the pods option, I would rate it 90/100. It's convenient and quick, offering multiple brew sizes and compatibility with popular coffee pod brands. The system is straightforward, and it makes brewing easy with minimal cleanup. The only slight downside is that pod coffee might not be as fresh as ground coffee, and some people prefer the taste of freshly ground beans.

Brew with Ground 

You just lift the top lid to reveal a compartment where you can place your coffee grounds. This section is designed to accommodate a reusable filter, making it both eco-friendly and cost-effective, as you don’t need to keep buying paper filters.

The machine has a scoop holder attached for easily measuring your grounds, ensuring you use the right amount every time. Once the grounds are in, you can select your desired brew size, ranging from 6 oz. up to 24 oz., which is perfect for customizing to your taste. The grounds fit seamlessly into the compartment, and the brew process starts with just a press of a button.

The option to brew with grounds is practical for coffee lovers who prefer freshly ground beans or have a particular roast they love. Whether you're using pre-ground coffee or grinding your own beans at home, this feature ensures that you get the full flavor from the coffee, offering a rich, smooth cup. It also works well for those who enjoy variety since you can easily switch between different coffee brands and types.

For the grounds option, I would rate it 100/100. The ability to use fresh coffee grounds allows for more control over the coffee's strength and flavor. Plus, the large range of brewing sizes, from 6 oz. to 24 oz., makes it versatile. The reusable filter is a great eco-friendly touch, and it delivers a richer, more aromatic cup of coffee.

Foldable Milk Frother 

The foldaway built-in milk frother shown in the image is one of the standout features of the Ninja Pods and Grounds Specialty Coffee Maker. It transforms both hot and cold milk, including milk alternatives like almond or oat milk, into silky, rich froth. This makes it perfect for creating coffeehouse-style drinks right at home, such as lattes, cappuccinos, and macchiatos.

The frother is easy to use and folds away neatly, so it doesn't take up extra counter space. You simply hold the frother over your cup of milk and press the button, and it does the job quickly, producing a smooth and creamy froth in seconds. It’s a great tool for anyone who enjoys specialty coffee beverages.

In terms of performance, the frother is reliable and works well with different types of milk, although it may take a little longer to froth non-dairy alternatives. Its ease of cleaning is also a bonus; you can wipe it off with ease, making it convenient for everyday use.

As for the rating, I’d give the milk frother a 90/100 for its effectiveness, ease of use, and space-saving design. It performs well, especially considering it's part of an all-in-one machine, and is a fantastic addition for home baristas.

4 Different Coffee Style You Can Make

The Ninja Pod & Grounds Specialty Coffee Maker offers four distinct brew styles that cater to various coffee preferences like Ninja CM371 . The Classic brew provides a well-balanced cup, ideal for everyday drinking, delivering smooth and consistent results with either ground coffee or pods. For those who prefer a stronger, more intense flavor, the Rich brew setting enhances the coffee's boldness without crossing into bitterness, making it perfect for pairing with milk-based drinks like lattes.

The Over Ice feature stands out for iced coffee lovers, brewing coffee strong enough to maintain its flavor even when poured over ice. This setting ensures that your cold beverages are never diluted, offering a refreshing experience, especially during hot days. The Specialty Brew option takes things up a notch, creating a concentrated, espresso-like coffee that serves as the perfect base for lattes, cappuccinos, and other specialty drinks. When combined with the built-in frother, it brings a café experience directly into your home.

In terms of ratings, the Classic setting earns a solid 95 out of 100 for its reliability. The Rich brew is highly favored, receiving a 97 out of 100 due to its well-rounded flavor. The Over Ice feature garners a 96, praised for its ability to keep cold drinks flavorful. Lastly, the Specialty Brew shines with a 98 out of 100, thanks to its ability to replicate coffeehouse-quality drinks. Overall, the four brew styles are highly versatile and cater to a broad spectrum of coffee lovers.

Coffee Making Time

During my experience with the Ninja Pod & Grounds Specialty Coffee Maker, I was impressed by its brewing efficiency without sacrificing quality. When I used the Classic brew setting, it typically took about 10 to 12 minutes to produce a full carafe of coffee. For a quick single-serve or travel mug, the time was reduced to around 6 to 8 minutes, which was perfect for my busy mornings.

I also tried the Rich brew setting, which added a bit more time to the process, taking about 12 to 14 minutes for a full carafe. I could definitely taste the enhanced flavor and richness, making it worth the wait. The Over Ice brew option was another highlight, brewing coffee in roughly 10 to 12 minutes. It ensured that the coffee was strong enough to hold its flavor even when poured over ice, which I appreciated on warmer days.

The Specialty brew mode, which takes about 10 to 12 minutes as well, delivers a concentrated coffee similar to espresso, perfect for lattes and cappuccinos. Overall, I found the Ninja Pod & Grounds Specialty Coffee Maker to be quite efficient, and I rated its brewing speed a solid 80 out of 100. It strikes a great balance between quick brewing times and delivering satisfying coffee, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking for convenience in their daily coffee routine.

How to Clean Ninja Pod & Grounds Specialty Coffee Maker

Cleaning the Ninja Pod & Grounds Specialty Coffee Maker is a straightforward process that helps maintain the machine's performance and ensures the best flavor in your coffee. Here’s an overview of the cleaning process and a rating based on its ease and effectiveness.

To begin, it’s recommended to unplug the coffee maker before cleaning for safety. The removable parts, including the water tank, brew basket, and frother, should be detached for easy cleaning. The 56-ounce removable water tank can be rinsed with warm, soapy water, making it simple to eliminate any coffee residue or mineral buildup. Its removable design is beneficial here, as it allows for thorough cleaning without any hassle.

The brew basket should also be cleaned regularly. It can be rinsed under warm water or placed in the dishwasher, depending on the model's specifications. If you use coffee grounds, it’s essential to remove any leftover coffee to prevent buildup, which could affect the flavor of future brews.

The exterior of the coffee maker can be wiped down with a damp cloth to remove any spills or stains. Regular maintenance of the machine, including descaling every few months, will help prevent mineral buildup, especially if you live in an area with hard water. Many recommend using a descaling solution or a mixture of vinegar and water for this purpose.

Based on this cleaning process, the Ninja Pod & Grounds Specialty Coffee Maker earns a rating of 97 out of 100. This rating reflects its user-friendly design, which makes cleaning easy and efficient, ensuring that coffee lovers can maintain their machine with minimal effort while enjoying consistently great-tasting coffee.

Value of the Money 

The Ninja Pod & Grounds Specialty Coffee Maker offers excellent value for money, especially considering it is priced under $100. This price point provides several benefits that make it an attractive option for coffee enthusiasts.

First, the versatility of brewing options is a significant advantage. With its four versatile brew styles—Classic, Rich, Over Ice, and Specialty—this coffee maker accommodates a diverse array of coffee preferences. It allows users to enjoy everything from a smooth everyday cup to a concentrated, espresso-like brew, all in one machine. This versatility often makes it a more cost-effective choice compared to purchasing multiple machines for different brewing methods.

Additionally, the 56-ounce removable water tank adds to its value by minimizing the need for frequent refills, which is convenient for busy households or when entertaining guests. The ease of cleaning and maintenance also enhances its value, ensuring that users can keep the machine in optimal condition without excessive effort.

Moreover, the built-in frother allows you to create café-style drinks at home, saving money on expensive coffee shop visits. This feature elevates the overall experience without requiring a significant investment.

Considering these factors, the Ninja Pod & Grounds Specialty Coffee Maker can be rated at 98 out of 100 for value for money. Its combination of versatility, convenience, and affordability makes it a standout choice for anyone looking to enjoy high-quality coffee without breaking the bank.

Final Verdict 

The Ninja Pod & Grounds Specialty Coffee Maker stands out as an exceptional choice for coffee lovers seeking versatility and quality at an affordable price. With its ability to brew in four distinct styles—Classic, Rich, Over Ice, and Specialty—it caters to a wide range of preferences, ensuring that every user can find their perfect cup.

The 56-ounce removable water tank adds to its convenience, allowing for multiple brews without frequent refills and simplifying the cleaning process. The user-friendly design and ease of maintenance enhance the overall experience, making it a practical addition to any kitchen.

Additionally, the built-in frother offers the opportunity to create café-quality drinks at home, saving both time and money. Overall, this coffee maker delivers impressive performance and taste, justifying its price point under $100.

For these reasons, the Ninja Pod & Grounds Specialty Coffee Maker earns a solid rating of 91 out of 100. Whether you’re brewing for yourself or entertaining guests, this coffee maker ensures that you enjoy a satisfying and flavorful coffee experience every time.