Ninja Specialty Coffee Maker CM401 Review

I recently tested the Ninja Specialty Coffee Maker CM401, and I’m excited to share my thoughts. This coffee maker promises a lot with its unique features and brewing options. But does it really deliver? In this review, I’ll cover everything from its performance to its ease of use. Whether you’re a coffee enthusiast or just looking for a reliable machine, my honest review will help you decide if the Ninja CM401 is right for you.

A Short Overview 

I really like this coffee maker, and I believe it’s worth spending a little extra on something we use every day. A good coffee maker can make your mornings easier and your coffee tastier, so investing in a quality machine is a smart choice.

Almost everything about this unit is well-designed and carefully thought out. However, I did notice that a lot of the material is plastic instead of stainless steel. While plastic is lightweight and easy to clean, stainless steel would give it a more premium feel and perhaps make it more durable. That said, the plastic used here seems sturdy and functional, so it doesn’t feel cheap.

One of the things I appreciate most is how easy it is to add water to this coffee maker. Its removable water tank really stands out as a great feature.. It’s washable, clearly marked for easy measuring, and has ergonomic grab handles that make it simple to carry and set in place. You don’t have to worry about spilling water all over the counter when filling it up, which is a small but significant convenience.

The carafe is another highlight. It’s designed with a special vent that allows for a smooth pour without drips or spills. The handle on the carafe is very comfortable to hold, making it easy to pour even when it’s full. These little details add up to a better overall experience when using the coffee maker.

This machine is versatile in how it brews coffee. You can make a specific amount directly into a cup or travel mug if you’re on the go, or brew a full pot using the carafe. The filter basket even swings out smoothly and quietly, which is a nice touch compared to other machines that can be clunky or noisy.

While the coffee maker has several brewing options, which is great for customizing your coffee, I did find setting the timer to be a bit complicated. There’s definitely a bit of a learning curve, but it’s not too bad. During my initial tests, I had to refer to the instructions a couple of times, which isn’t something I usually need to do. Once you get the hang of it, though, it’s straightforward enough to use.

There are many other features and aspects of this coffee maker that I’m excited to explore, so let’s dive in and take a closer look at what it has to offer.

Design & Overall look 

The design and overall look of this coffee maker really stand out, combining both functionality and style in a way that makes it a great addition to any kitchen. The dimensions are quite manageable, with a depth of 8.75 inches, a width of 11.99 inches, and a height of 15.04 inches. Weighing in at around 9.24 pounds, it’s lightweight and easy to move around if needed. Compared to the CM371 model, this one is slightly smaller, which might be a plus if you’re short on counter space.

As I mentioned earlier, there’s a fair amount of plastic used in this coffee maker’s construction, but it’s balanced nicely with stainless steel elements that give it a modern and durable feel. The design is centered around a sleek and eye-catching brew group, which is suspended between a supporting column and the water tank. This setup not only looks cool but also adds to the machine’s overall functionality.

On the left side of the machine, you’ll find a fold-away frother whisk that’s perfect for frothing both hot and cold milk. It’s a handy feature if you like to make lattes or cappuccinos at home. There’s also a convenient storage spot for the Ninja Smart Scoop, ensuring that everything you need is always within reach. This thoughtful placement keeps your coffee-making tools organized and easily accessible.

The right side of the coffee maker features an intuitive control panel, making it easy to navigate through the various settings and options. The water tank is positioned above this control panel, which is a practical design choice. While the water reservoir is made of plastic, I actually appreciate its attractive, ribbed design. It adds a touch of elegance to the machine and makes it easy to see how much water is left.

This design is quite different from other Ninja models like the CFP101 DualBrew Coffee Maker and the CFN601 Espresso & Coffee Barista System. Each of these models has its own unique look and feel, but this particular coffee maker manages to blend modern aesthetics with practical features in a way that’s both functional and visually appealing. The mix of materials, the clever layout of features, and the compact size all contribute to a design that’s not only pleasing to the eye but also highly user-friendly.

Perfect Control Panel

The control panel of the Ninja CM401 is designed to be user-friendly and intuitive, making it easy to navigate through the various brewing options and settings. Located on the right side of the machine I said, It’s well-organized and clearly labeled, ensuring that even if you’re not a tech-savvy person, you can easily figure out how to operate it.

One of the standout features of the control panel is the variety of brew options it offers. You’ll find buttons for Classic, Rich, Over Ice, and Specialty brews, allowing you to customize your coffee to your preferred taste. Each button is straightforward, so you can select your brew type with just a simple press. This is particularly useful if you enjoy experimenting with different coffee styles or if different members of your household have varying preferences.

In addition to the brew style options, the control panel also includes settings for choosing the size of your brew. Whether you want a single cup, a travel mug, a half carafe, or a full carafe, the size selection buttons make it easy to get the exact amount of coffee you need. This flexibility is one of the key advantages of the Ninja CM401, as it allows you to brew just the right amount of coffee without any waste.

The panel also has a dedicated button for the fold-away frother, which lets you froth milk directly from the machine, whether you’re making a hot latte or a cold foam for iced coffee. This adds a level of convenience for those who like to enjoy café-style drinks at home.

Another useful feature on the control panel is the programmable delay brew. With this option, you can set the machine to start brewing at a specific time, so you can wake up to a fresh pot of coffee. The timer is easy to set, and once you’ve programmed it, the coffee maker will take care of the rest.

The control panel also features a digital clock, which is both functional and easy to read. This clock not only helps with setting the delay brew but also keeps you informed of the time while you’re in the kitchen. Additionally, there’s a clean indicator that lights up when it’s time to run a cleaning cycle, helping you maintain the machine in top condition.

Fold-Away Frother

I’m so excited to tell you about the built-in frother that comes with this coffee maker. It’s a total game-changer for anyone who loves a good latte or cappuccino. With this handy tool, you can turn hot or cold milk (or even milk alternatives, like almond or soy milk) into a silky-smooth froth that’s just perfect for topping your favorite coffee drinks.

The frother is super easy to use. You can just fold it away when you’re not using it, which is great for saving counter space and keeping your kitchen looking tidy. What I really like is how simple it is to clean. Once I’m done frothing, I can simply remove the frother and rinse it under warm water. It’s also dishwasher safe, which makes maintenance even easier.

I love that the frother can handle both hot and cold milk, too. This means you can whip up a rich and creamy hot chocolate in the winter, or a refreshing and revitalizing cold coffee drink in the summer. And with the option to use milk alternatives, this coffee maker is perfect for anyone with dietary restrictions or preferences.

Removable Water Reservoir

One of the standout features of this coffee maker is its removable water reservoir. This 40-ounce tank makes filling up a breeze. You can easily detach it from the machine and carry it right to your sink. No more awkward pouring or spills!

The reservoir is designed with a flip-top lid, which adds to its convenience. This lid opens easily, allowing you to refill the tank without any hassle. It also has clear indicators that show the minimum fill levels for each brew size. This helps you know exactly how much water you need for your desired amount of coffee.

However, it’s important to note that this model lacks an auto-metering water sensor. Unlike the Ninja CM371 Iced XL Coffee Maker, which automatically measures the water for you, this coffee maker requires a bit more manual effort when it comes to measuring. While this might not be a dealbreaker, it’s something to consider if you prefer automated features.

4 Brew Styles

The Ninja CM401 gives you several brew styles to choose from, each one tailored to different taste preferences and coffee experiences. 

Classic Brew:

This is your go-to option if you want a smooth and balanced cup of coffee. It’s perfect for those who prefer a traditional coffee flavor that’s neither too strong nor too mild. The Classic setting ensures the right amount of flavor is extracted from your coffee grounds, delivering a consistent and satisfying cup every time.

Rich Brew:

If you enjoy your coffee with a bit more depth and intensity, the Rich brew is what you’re looking for. This setting takes a little longer to brew, allowing more flavor to be extracted from the coffee grounds. The result is a richer, more robust cup, ideal for those who like a stronger coffee that still holds up well when mixed with milk or cream.

Over Ice:

Designed specifically for iced coffee lovers, the Over Ice brew style ensures your coffee doesn’t get watered down when the ice melts. Instead of just brewing hot coffee and pouring it over ice, this setting brews at a concentrated strength, so you get a full-flavored iced coffee that’s refreshing and satisfying even as the ice melts.

Specialty Brew:

For those who love café-style drinks, the Specialty brew is where the Ninja CM401 really shines. This setting produces a rich, concentrated coffee similar to espresso, making it perfect for creating lattes, cappuccinos, macchiatos, and other specialty drinks. While it’s not a true espresso, the concentrated coffee it makes is strong enough to serve as the base for a variety of coffeehouse-style beverages.

Each of these brew styles offers something unique, allowing you to customize your coffee experience based on your mood, the time of day, or your personal preferences. Whether you’re craving a classic cup of coffee, a strong brew, a refreshing iced coffee, or a specialty drink, the Ninja CM401 has a setting that’s just right for you.

6 Brew Sizes

One of the things I love about this coffee maker is its flexibility. With six different brew sizes to choose from, you can make the perfect cup of coffee every time, no matter how much or how little you need.

Let’s start with the smallest size: a single cup. This is perfect for those mornings when you just need a quick pick-me-up before heading out the door. You can brew a single cup of coffee in just a few minutes, and it’s the perfect way to get your day started. I can start my day with just a single cup of coffee. Sometimes, I need just enough to get me going in the morning. The Cup size is perfect for that. It’s quick, easy, and I can enjoy my favorite brew without making a whole pot.

Next up is the XL Cup, which is a bit larger than a standard cup. This is great for those who like a little extra coffee in the morning, or for sharing with a friend or family member. If I need a little more, I can go for the XL Cup. This size is great for those days when I need an extra boost. It’s still manageable but gives me a bit more to sip on while I tackle my tasks.

If you’re on-the-go, the Travel Mug size is perfect for you. This brews a generous amount of coffee that’s just right for filling up your travel mug and hitting the road. I can brew a fresh cup and take it with me, ensuring I have my coffee fix while on the go. It fits perfectly in my car’s cup holder, making it super convenient for busy mornings.

For those longer trips, the Multi-Serve Travel Mug option is a great choice. I can brew a larger amount that still fits in my travel mug. It keeps my coffee warm and ready for the road ahead.

When I have company over, I can easily brew a Half Carafe. This size is ideal for small gatherings. It gives me enough coffee to share without wasting any.

If I’m hosting a bigger crowd, the Full Carafe is my go-to option. It brews enough coffee for everyone, ensuring nobody is left without their favorite drink.

Overall, having six brew sizes makes this coffee maker incredibly versatile. It adapts to my needs, whether I want a quick cup for myself or a full pot to share with friends. This feature truly enhances my coffee experience and makes brewing a delight.

Easy To Clean

Okay, it’s time to clean my coffee maker! I’m so glad that most of the parts are easy to clean and can be safely washed in the dishwasher.

First, I’ll start with the glass carafe. This is the part that holds my freshly brewed coffee, and it’s easy to wash in the dishwasher. I’ll just pop it on the top rack and let the machine do the work.

Next, I’ll clean the brew-through lid. This is the lid that I lift up to add coffee grounds or pour in water. I’ll just toss it in the dishwasher and let it get sparkling clean.

Now, it’s time to clean the permanent filter. I love that I don’t need to buy paper filters, which can save me money and reduce waste. And the best part? The permanent filter is also dishwasher safe, making it easy to clean and maintain.

The removable filter holder is next on my list. This is the part that holds the permanent filter in place, and it can be washed in the dishwasher whenever I need to. I’ll just give it a quick rinse and then load it into the dishwasher.

After that, I’ll clean the water reservoir. This is the part that holds the water that’s used to brew my coffee. I’ll just open the flip-top lid and give it a quick rinse, then load it into the dishwasher.

The frother whisk is a small but important part of the coffee maker’s frothing system. This is the part that whips the milk into a creamy froth, and it’s easy to clean and maintain. I’ll just toss it in the dishwasher and let it get sparkling clean.

Finally, I’ll clean the scoop. This is the small tool that I use to measure out the right amount of coffee. I’ll just give it a quick rinse and then load it into the dishwasher.

With all the parts clean and sparkling, my coffee maker is now ready to brew another delicious cup of coffee!

Final Verdict 

After testing the Ninja Specialty Coffee Maker CM401, I can confidently say it lives up to the hype. This machine offers a versatile brewing experience. Whether you prefer a classic cup of coffee or a specialty drink, it has you covered.

The removable water reservoir is a huge plus. It makes filling the tank easy and convenient. The brew sizes are clear and straightforward, ensuring you get just the right amount every time. However, the lack of an auto-metering water sensor is a drawback. It requires a bit more manual measuring, which some users may find inconvenient.

Overall, the CM401 is a solid choice for coffee lovers. Its features make brewing enjoyable and customizable. If you’re looking for a machine that can handle different coffee styles, the Ninja Specialty Coffee Maker CM401 is worth considering.