Ninja Foodi Cold and Hot Blender Review 

The Ninja Foodi Cold and Hot Blender is a versatile kitchen appliance designed to handle everything from cold smoothies to hot soups with ease. With a powerful motor and a range of preset programs, it promises convenience and performance all in one. But like any blender, it has its pros and cons that are important to consider before making a purchase. In this review, I’ll dive into the features, performance, and some of the challenges I faced using the Ninja HB152, especially when it comes to cleaning and noise level. If you’re thinking about adding this blender to your kitchen, read on to find out if it’s the right fit for you.

Overall Size and Design

The Ninja Foodi Cold and Hot Blender (HB152) is definitely on the larger side when it comes to blenders. Standing at 18 inches tall, it’s quite tall, so you’ll need to make sure it fits under your kitchen cabinets if you plan to store it on the counter. It’s also 7.9 inches wide and 8.8 inches deep, so it takes up a bit of space. If your counter space is limited, this might be something to consider before purchasing.

One thing you’ll notice right away is the weight. At 12.1 lbs, it’s not the kind of blender you’ll want to move around frequently. If you plan on using it daily, it’s best to keep it on your counter permanently rather than lifting it in and out of storage. The blender feels sturdy and well-built, but its weight and size make it less portable compared to lighter models.

Since this is not an immersion blender, it doesn’t have a shaft length to consider. But what it does offer is powerful blending capability and versatility. Overall, the Ninja Foodi Cold and Hot Blender is perfect if you need a reliable appliance that can handle both hot and cold blends, but keep in mind its size and weight when deciding where to store it in your kitchen.

Jar Capacity and Material 92

The Ninja Foodi Cold and Hot Blender comes with a 64-ounce main jar, which provides ample space for most blending tasks. Whether you're making a large batch of smoothies for the family or preparing a hearty soup, this size should work for you. However, if you're familiar with other Ninja models, such as the Ninja BL770, you'll notice that it comes with a larger 72-ounce jar. While this might seem like a small difference, if you regularly blend in bulk, the extra capacity can come in handy.

In terms of accessories, the Ninja Foodi Cold and Hot Blender is more straightforward compared to some other models in the Ninja lineup. It only comes with the one jar, whereas other models, like Ninja SS351 Foodi Power Blender or the Ninja BN801, often include additional accessories. These might be smaller, personal jars for making single-serve smoothies, or even extra blades for food processing. These accessories can be really useful if you need a more versatile blender setup. However, keep in mind that these models, while offering more accessories, don’t have the hot blending capability that makes the HB152 stand out.

One of the key features of the Ninja hb150c/hb152 foodi heat-iq blender is its glass jar. Unlike many other Ninja blenders that use plastic jars, this one is made of glass, similar to what you would find with models like the Oster Pro 1200. The glass jar has some advantages over plastic. For one, it's less prone to scratches, which keeps it looking newer for longer. It’s also less likely to discolor over time, especially if you blend colorful ingredients like berries or leafy greens.

However, there is one trade-off with the glass jar: it's not dishwasher safe like Vitamix 5200 and 5300. Because the jar has a built-in heating element at the base, you can’t submerge it in water or put it in the dishwasher. This means you’ll need to hand-wash it after each use, which can be a bit of extra work compared to the convenience of just tossing it in the dishwasher. While this is a small inconvenience, the ability to blend hot ingredients more than makes up for it, especially if you're someone who enjoys making homemade soups or sauces directly in the blender.

Lid Material and Shape

The Ninja Foodi Cold and Hot Blender comes with a two-part lid, which adds convenience and versatility to your blending experience. The lid consists of the main cover and a removable center cap. This design makes it easy to add ingredients while the blender is running, which is a helpful feature if you're working with recipes that require you to gradually mix in items. Whether you need to add more liquid, spices, or other ingredients during the blending process, the center cap gives you that flexibility without having to stop the blender altogether.

The lid also features a locking mechanism, which is essential for safety and proper operation. Before you can start the blender, you need to lock the lid down securely. This feature ensures that the lid stays in place during use, which is especially important when blending hot ingredients. It’s reassuring to know that everything will stay safely contained inside the jar, even when you're blending soups or sauces at high speeds.

What I really like about this two-part lid is how practical it is. The removable center cap also works in tandem with the included tamper. You can take off the cap mid-blend and use the tamper to push ingredients down toward the blades, making sure everything blends smoothly. This feature is particularly useful when working with thicker mixtures like nut butters, where ingredients tend to stick to the sides of the jar. The tamper helps to keep things moving without having to stop the blender repeatedly to scrape down the sides.

Although this lid design differs slightly from the one found on the Ninja Foodi SS201 Power Blender, I find it to be somewhat similar to the lid on the Vitamix E310 Blender. The removable center cap and the tamper feature remind me of the Vitamix design, which is known for being highly effective in handling thick mixtures. However, in comparison, the locking mechanism on the Ninja Foodi adds an extra layer of security, particularly when blending hot liquids. This is something you don’t necessarily get with every blender, and it's a feature I really appreciate in the Ninja Foodi Cold and Hot Blender.

Blender Built Quality

The Ninja Foodi Cold and Hot Blender’s motor build quality is one of the standout features of this appliance. The motor feels strong and durable, providing plenty of power for all types of blending, whether you're making smoothies or working with tougher ingredients like ice or nuts. The base of the blender is made from plastic, but it has a solid, well-built feel to it. It doesn't feel flimsy or cheap, which gives you confidence that it’s designed to last through regular, heavy use. While plastic bases can sometimes feel less durable, this one is built to withstand daily wear and tear.

The main jar is made of glass, which is a great feature if you're looking for something that feels more premium compared to the typical plastic jars you find with many blenders. Glass is not only more resistant to scratches, but it also doesn’t absorb odors or stains like plastic can. This means your blender will stay looking clean and fresh, even after frequent use with ingredients like berries or coffee. The bottom part of the jar is made from plastic and wrapped with a thin sheet of metal, giving it a more polished look while also adding a bit of protection. However, this combination of materials isn’t perfect, as there can be some minor issues that arise.

One thing I noticed during use is that the rubber feet on the blender's base don’t provide enough grip, especially when it’s operating at its highest speed. This can cause the blender to move around slightly on the countertop, which is a bit inconvenient. I wish the rubber feet had a bit more friction to keep the blender more securely in place, especially when blending heavier or thicker mixtures. It’s not a deal-breaker, but it’s something to be aware of if you plan to use the blender frequently on its highest settings.

Another issue I’ve noticed is an annoying sound that sometimes comes from the bottom of the jar. It seems to be caused by friction between the metal wrapping and the surrounding silicone, which can create an unpleasant noise during operation. While this isn’t a huge problem, it’s something that can be a bit bothersome if you're sensitive to noise while blending. However, despite this small issue, the overall sturdiness and build quality of the Ninja Foodi Cold and Hot Blender still shine through.

Compared to other blenders, like the Hamilton Beach Power Elite Multi-Function, which also features a glass jar, the Ninja hb150c/hb152 feels significantly more robust. The Hamilton Beach model, while functional, doesn’t offer the same level of sturdiness in its build, and its motor doesn’t feel as strong or durable as the Ninja Foodi’s. The Ninja’s glass jar and well-built base definitely make it feel like a more premium appliance that can handle a variety of tasks with ease. So, while there are a couple of minor quirks with the rubber feet and the noise from the jar, I still feel that the Ninja Foodi Cold and Hot Blender stands out for its excellent build quality and powerful performance.

Blade Design and Speed

The blade system in the Ninja Foodi Cold and Hot Blender is designed with performance in mind, but it does come with a few limitations. The blades are extremely sharp, which is a major plus if you need precision cutting and blending. There are six horizontal blades at the base of the jar, paired with two smaller vertical blades that sit just above. This design helps ensure a more thorough blend by pulling ingredients down toward the blades for smoother results. However, the blades are not removable, which means cleaning them can be a bit more challenging.

Since the blades stay in the jar, you’ll have to wash them by hand, which is something to keep in mind if you prefer the convenience of a dishwasher-safe appliance. While this isn’t necessarily a deal-breaker, it does mean you'll need to be more careful when cleaning, given how sharp the blades are. The combination of horizontal and vertical blades does make a difference in how well the blender performs, particularly with tougher ingredients, but you’ll need to take extra care during cleanup to avoid any accidents.

In terms of speed and power, the Ninja Foodi Cold and Hot Blender doesn’t disappoint. With a motor rated at 1,400 watts, this blender packs plenty of power, allowing you to tackle a variety of tasks, from crushing ice to blending hot soups. The minimum speed is 13,600 RPM, while the maximum speed goes up to 18,500 RPM. These high speeds are great for quickly blending and processing ingredients, but the blender doesn’t offer a very wide range of speed settings. This can be somewhat limiting if you prefer to start at a low speed and gradually ramp up, especially for more delicate tasks where precision is key.

If you’re someone who likes to have full control over your blending speeds, you might find this lack of a wide speed range a bit frustrating. The lowest speed setting is still fairly fast, so if you need a slow start to gently mix ingredients before increasing speed, this blender might not provide the level of control you're looking for. Unfortunately, the speed adjustment isn’t based on the type of jar you’re using, which is something that some other blenders offer to give you more flexibility in speed control.

On the plus side, the power behind this blender makes up for its limitations in speed variety. It can handle tough jobs without struggling, and the sharp blades combined with high RPMs allow for quick, efficient blending. Whether you're making a smoothie, a hot soup, or even grinding tougher ingredients like nuts, the Ninja Foodi Cold and Hot Blender delivers reliable results.

Compared to other blenders that may offer more precise speed settings, like some Vitamix models, the Ninja Foodi’s performance is still impressive. It’s not as customizable in terms of speed, but the power and blade design make it a solid choice for most blending tasks. You’ll just need to keep in mind that the blades are non-removable, so hand washing is a must, and the speeds are on the higher end even at the lowest setting. 

Performance

Nut Butter

When it comes to preparing nut butter, the Ninja Foodi Cold and Hot Blender does a pretty solid job, though it might not be the fastest out there. I’d rate its nut butter preparation a 68 because it does require a bit more time and effort compared to other blenders. You’ll find yourself having to pause the process a few times to help things along. If you’re working with a smaller batch of ingredients, the tamper may not reach everything, so you’ll need to stop the blender, take off the lid, and use a spatula to scrape down the sides. This can slow things down, but it’s manageable with a little patience.

Now, when it comes to nut butter texture, I’d give it a much higher rating—around 92. The texture is incredibly smooth and spreadable, perfect for spreading on toast or adding to your favorite recipes. Once you’ve got everything blended and smooth, the nut butter comes out creamy, with a nice consistency that’s easy to work with.

In short, while you might need to put in a bit more time and stop-and-go effort during preparation, the end result is excellent. This blender excels in producing top-quality nut butter that’s rich in texture, so if that’s a priority for you, it’s worth the extra work.

Fibrous Ingredients

When it comes to processing fibrous ingredients like fruits or leafy greens, the Ninja Foodi Cold and Hot Blender performs well but with some considerations. At full capacity, it’s able to handle these tough ingredients efficiently, leaving you with a pretty smooth blend overall. There are still a few tiny bits left behind, but nothing too bothersome. However, it’s important to note that the blending process can take a bit longer than expected. You’ll find yourself needing to stop midway through to scrape down the sides of the jar using a spatula, which can be slightly inconvenient. This ensures that all the ingredients are fully incorporated, but it does add some time to the task.

One thing to keep in mind is the movement of the blender while it’s running. It tends to shift around quite a bit on the countertop, which means you’ll need to keep a firm hand on it during use. This might be something to consider if you’re often multitasking in the kitchen. Overall, while it gets the job done, there are a few challenges with larger batches and longer blending times.

Now, when you’re working with smaller batches of fibrous ingredients, the performance is slightly different. It excels in producing a super smooth texture, which is perfect for smoothies or sauces. You can blend smaller portions of fruits or greens, and the result is impressive. But again, there’s a catch. Smaller recipes tend to be trickier, as it takes even longer to get that perfect consistency. Just like with larger batches, you’ll need to stop multiple times to scrape down the sides with a spatula, ensuring everything blends evenly. This can feel a bit repetitive, especially if you’re trying to make something quickly.

Crushed Ice

When it comes to crushing ice, the Ninja Foodi Cold and Hot Blender really stands out. I’ve used quite a few blenders over the years, and this one handles ice like a pro. If you’re someone who loves making slushies, frozen drinks, or just needs crushed ice on hand, this blender is a game-changer. The texture it creates is like snow—really fine and fluffy. It doesn’t leave behind those big chunks of ice that you often get with other blenders. In less than a minute, you can go from whole ice cubes to perfectly crushed ice, which is pretty impressive for a blender of this size.

One of the things I really like about the Ninja Foodi is how easy it makes the whole process. You don’t have to spend a lot of time adjusting settings or figuring out how to get the right consistency. Just pop in the ice, set the blender to high speed, and let it do its thing. Towards the end of the process, you might need to pulse it a couple of times to make sure everything is evenly crushed, but that’s pretty much it. Even that step is super easy, and it really helps ensure you get that perfect snow-like texture.

Another thing worth mentioning is how quickly it works. I’ve used blenders in the past where crushing ice seemed to take forever, and you could hear the motor struggling. With the Ninja Foodi, it’s fast and efficient. You don’t have to worry about the machine overheating or getting bogged down. In less than a minute, you’re done, and the motor handles it without any issues.

The design of the blender also makes it really user-friendly. It’s straightforward to use, and there aren’t a bunch of complicated buttons or settings to figure out. Even if you’ve never crushed ice before, this blender makes it simple. You just hit the high-speed option, maybe pulse it a few times, and you’re good to go.

User Interface

The Ninja Foodi Cold and Hot Blender comes with a wide range of features that make it versatile and easy to use. One of the things I appreciate is the straightforward On/Off switch, which keeps things simple when you're ready to start blending. But the real power comes from the variety of speed presets and automatic blending programs it offers. With three different speed presets, you can choose from low, medium, or high, depending on what you're blending. Whether you’re working with soft fruits or crushing ice, there’s a preset that fits the task. There's no speed dial, which might be a downside for those who like more control over speed, but the presets are effective and convenient.

One standout feature for me is the hot blending capability. Not all blenders can handle both cold and hot ingredients, but this one does it effortlessly. This means you can make things like soups and sauces directly in the blender without transferring to another pot to cook. It's a time-saver and keeps your cooking process streamlined.

It also has a pulse/turbo mode, which gives you that extra burst of power when you need it. I find this mode especially helpful when I'm working with tough ingredients or when I need to break up something quickly without over-blending. It’s a small feature, but one that comes in handy more often than you'd think.

Now, let’s talk about the automatic programs—there are eight in total. Each program runs the blender for a specific amount of time and some of them can even heat up or cook your ingredients. For example, if you’re making a smoothie, you can simply select the Smoothie program, which runs for 45 seconds and blends everything to the perfect consistency. The Extract program is a bit longer at 1 minute and 5 seconds, which is great for tougher ingredients like seeds or frozen fruits. If you’re in the mood for a frozen drink, that program runs for 55 seconds, and the Ice Cream program lasts 1 minute and 10 seconds, giving you just the right texture for homemade treats.

One of the most impressive features is the hot blending programs. For example, the Saute program runs for a full 5 minutes and 21 seconds, allowing you to sauté ingredients like onions or garlic before blending them into a soup or sauce. Speaking of soups, there are two specific programs for that: Hearty Soup and Smooth Soup, both of which run for 20 minutes and even cook your ingredients while blending. It’s such a convenient feature if you want to make a fresh, homemade soup without having to juggle multiple pots and pans.

If you’re into making dips or sauces, the Sauce/Dip program runs for 20 minutes and 30 seconds, which is ideal for thick, rich blends. There’s also a Mixer program that runs for 10 minutes and 30 seconds. It’s versatile and can be used for different recipes, including cocktails and other liquid-based mixes.

One feature that I think is quite useful is the blending time indicator. It shows you exactly how long each program will run, so you’re not left guessing. However, it doesn’t have a programmable timer, which would’ve been a nice addition for more advanced customization, but the built-in programs are still incredibly helpful.

Lastly, when using manual blending mode, the blender has a 60-second time limit before it automatically stops, which I appreciate. It prevents over-blending and gives you a nice safety feature if you step away from the kitchen for a moment. The manual blending mode works with or without the heating element, giving you full control depending on the recipe you're working on.

Overall, I find the Ninja Foodi Cold and Hot Blender to be a versatile machine with plenty of options for both hot and cold recipes. The pre-set programs take a lot of the guesswork out of blending, making it easy for anyone to use, regardless of their experience in the kitchen. Whether you’re whipping up a quick smoothie or making a hearty soup, this blender has the functionality to handle it all.

Easy to Clean

The Ninja HB152 Foodi Cold and Hot Blender is an impressive machine when it comes to blending, but when it comes to cleaning, it has its challenges. I have to admit, cleaning it by hand is not the easiest task. That’s why I ended up giving it 62 points out of 100 in terms of ease of cleaning. The blender does come with a six-minute 'Clean' preset program, which is helpful, but it doesn’t completely take care of everything, especially when you’re dealing with sticky or stubborn debris that tends to cling to the sides of the jar.

One of the first things you'll notice is that the jar is heavy, which can make cleaning in the sink a little awkward. On top of that, you can’t fully immerse the jar in water due to the electronics, so you have to be extra cautious when rinsing it out. This is definitely something to keep in mind, especially if you’re used to blenders where you can just dunk the whole jar in soapy water for a thorough clean.

The blades are non-removable, which also adds a bit of difficulty. These blades are sharp, so you have to be careful when cleaning around them. I found that using a brush with a long handle works best to safely get into the nooks and crannies around the blades. Still, it requires some effort to get all the residue off, especially after making thicker recipes like soups or sauces.

The lid is another area where you’ll need to pay special attention. It has ridges, which are great for keeping the lid secure during blending, but they tend to trap bits of food. This means you’ll need to take your time scrubbing the ridges with a sponge to make sure everything gets cleaned out properly. If you skip this step, you might find that food debris sticks there and becomes harder to clean over time.

While the 'Clean' preset does a decent job, it’s not a total fix. You’ll still need to follow up with some manual scrubbing afterward. If you’re blending something simple like a smoothie, the preset program might be enough to get it clean. But for heartier recipes or anything that leaves behind a sticky residue, expect to put in a bit more elbow grease.

Noise Level

When it comes to the noise level, the Ninja HB152 Foodi Cold and Hot Blender is definitely not the quietest option out there. In fact, at 95.5 decibels when running at max speed, it’s quite loud, especially compared to other full-size blenders I’ve used. If you're sensitive to noise or have a quiet kitchen environment, this might be something to keep in mind before purchasing.

I noticed that the noise level is particularly noticeable when you're using the higher-speed settings. If you’re blending something like ice or frozen fruits, the motor has to work harder, and that’s when the sound really ramps up. It can be a bit startling at first, especially if you’re not expecting it, but over time you kind of get used to it.

One thing that stands out to me is that the noise is not just a brief burst, like with smaller tasks. Since this blender is designed to handle a lot of different functions, including hot blending and longer cooking programs, you might find yourself dealing with the noise for a bit longer than you’d like. For example, when making soups or sauces, the blender runs for an extended period, and that high-pitched motor sound sticks around.

If you live in an apartment or have a shared living space, you might want to be cautious about using this blender early in the morning or late at night. It could easily disturb others around you. On the flip side, if you usually blend when there’s already some background noise, like the TV or music playing, it’s not as overwhelming.

Despite the noise, I have to admit the power of the blender is impressive. The sound is a trade-off for the strong motor that can handle just about anything you throw in it. But still, if you’re someone who prefers a quieter kitchen or needs to blend without waking up the whole house, the noise level is definitely something to consider.

Final Verdict

The Ninja HB152 Foodi Cold and Hot Blender is a powerhouse when it comes to performance, but it does come with a few trade-offs. Its ability to handle both hot and cold ingredients with ease makes it highly versatile. Whether you're blending smoothies, crushing ice, or making hot soups, this blender can tackle it all. The automatic blending programs are a big plus, offering convenience for a variety of tasks. However, cleaning it can be a bit of a chore due to its non-removable blades and heavy jar, which can't be fully submerged in water.

Additionally, the noise level at max speed is quite loud, hitting 95.5 decibels, which may be a drawback for those who prefer a quieter kitchen environment. While the six-minute 'Clean' program helps, it doesn’t entirely eliminate the need for manual scrubbing, especially around the sharp blades and the ridged lid.

If you're someone who prioritizes power, versatility, and don’t mind the extra time spent on cleaning or dealing with noise, this blender could be a great fit. On the other hand, if easy cleanup and quiet operation are higher on your list, you might want to consider other options. Overall, the Ninja HB152 is a solid choice for anyone looking for a high-performing blender that can do much more than just make smoothies.