Ninja SLUSHi review: the gadget that'll make you everyone's favourite host
As T3's Home Living writer, I'm lucky enough to test out all sorts of weird and wonderful kitchen gadgets – from cocktail makers to soda machines and everything in between. However, there's one type of gadget that's really having a moment, and if you're even slightly plugged into the world of home appliances, you probably know exactly what I'm talking about.
When the Ninja SLUSHi first hit the market, it pretty much invented a whole new category, giving everyday users the power to create frozen drinks at home with ease. Since then, more brands have jumped on the slushie machine bandwagon, but I still think Ninja's model still sits at the top of the pile.
Keep reading for my full thoughts, including whether it's actually worth the investment.
Ninja SLUSHi review: price and availability
The Ninja SLUSHi comes with an RRP of £349.99/$349.99, which definitely puts it at the premium end of the slushie machine spectrum. However, there's currently 20% off with the code NINJA20 on Ninja's online store, bringing it down to £279.99. So, if you've been eyeing it up, now's actually a pretty great time to grab one.
It also now comes in four gorgeous colourways beyond the standard grey, and they're proving to be seriously popular already.
Ninja SLUSHi review: design and features
In true Ninja fashion, the SLUSHi feels like a high-end machine. It's sturdy, made with premium materials, and strikes the perfect balance between compact and substantial. It measures 41cm x 16.5cm x 43cm and weighs about 10kg, so it's not lightweight, but it doesn't feel bulky either.
The front panel is laid out with illuminated LED buttons, and the controls are nicely intuitive. You get five different drink programmes and a texture control, so you can decide exactly how frozen you want your drink to be.
You've got presets for Slush, Frozen Cocktail, Frappé, Milkshake and Frozen Juice, and the machine won't start the cycle if your mixture doesn't have enough sugar or has too much alcohol, meaning you can fix it. The self-serve spout is a nice touch too, especially for entertaining, and there's a drip tray underneath to catch spills.
It holds up to 2.5 litres, which makes around 7 to 12 servings, depending on what you're making. You can also scale the ingredients down for just two or three people, or maximise them depending on how many people there are. It even plays the signature Ninja jingle when it's done, which is a fun touch.
The machine has a rinse cycle, and most of the removable parts are dishwasher safe. However, I found cleaning the main body by hand a bit fiddly due to the opening being so small, which is something to be aware of.
On the plus side, it's surprisingly quiet when running – somewhere around 45-55 decibels. I genuinely expected it to be much louder, but it sounds pretty similar to one of the best fans.
Ninja SLUSHi review: performance
If I'm being honest, I wasn't sure how to start this part, because everyone's experience with the Ninja SLUSHi is going to be different. That said, if you're not a 'drinks person', this probably isn't the appliance for you.
My partner and I definitely are, meaning our fridge is pretty much always stocked with cans, juices and bottles of all sorts. We've also got about five bottles of squash on the go at any one time, so I kind of knew this machine was going to be a hit in our house.
I've honestly loved every second of using the SLUSHi, and once I found a couple of recipes that worked for us, it's been incredible. I've also had a lot of fun experimenting with frozen cocktails, and a frozen mojito recipe I came up with has become a firm favourite with friends.
It's important to know that each programme takes a different amount of time. Alcoholic drinks take longer (my mojito mix took around 50 minutes to get to the perfect consistency) and squash or coffee-based drinks are quicker – 25 minutes or less, in most cases.
You should also be mindful of how much liquid you're putting in, as it's easy to overdo it if you're not following a recipe. I'd really recommend checking out Ninja's own recipe hub, as there's loads on there and they're actually really easy to follow.
The Ninja SLUSHi is a bit of an investment, which is why I'd say it's not for everyone. However, if you've got kids, throw regular parties, or just love a good frozen drink, it's so worth it. If you're the type of person who only reaches for a slushie once in a blue moon, this probably isn't going to be a good value-for-money buy for you.
Ninja SLUSHi review: verdict
The Ninja SLUSHi is a premium, high-performing frozen drink maker that's perfect for anyone who loves slushies, frappés or cocktails on tap. It's easy to use, surprisingly quiet, and delivers consistently great results. Yes, it's expensive and a little tricky to clean, but if you're someone who regularly enjoys icy drinks – or loves to host – it's 100% worth it.
Ninja SLUSHi review: alternatives to consider
There aren't many alternatives on the market that compete with the SLUSHi right now, but there are a few emerging. The Cuisinart Frost Fusion is one of them, but the mixing happens entirely inside the machine, so you don't get that satisfying visual of your drink swirling around.
Another option is the Inoviva Slushie Machine, which is a bit cheaper and still pretty decent – so worth a look if you're trying to save a few pennies.
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