Personal blenders are lifesavers when you need something quick, powerful, and compact for smoothies, shakes, or frozen drinks. Two models that often get compared are the Ninja BN401 and the Ninja BN400. At first glance, they look almost identical, and in many ways, they are. But after using both, I realized that subtle differences can influence which one makes more sense for your kitchen.
If you’re stuck between the BN401 and BN400, this hands-on review will break down everything from design to performance, so you can confidently decide which blender fits your needs best.
Key Difference Between Ninja BN401 vs BN400 Blender
The Ninja BN401 is the standard retail model, brand-new, and comes with a 20-recipe inspiration guide and dishwasher-safe parts. The Ninja BN400, on the other hand, is essentially the renewed/refurbished version of the BN401, offering nearly identical performance but at a slightly lower price point. The BN400 also includes an 18-oz cup in addition to the 24-oz one, which gives you a bit more flexibility in serving size.
In short: BN401 = new, polished, and dishwasher safe.
BN400 = renewed version with similar performance but less emphasis on extras.
- ULTIMATE POWER: 1000-peak-watt motor powers through the toughest ingredients and pulverizes ice to snow in seconds for...
- ULTIMATE POWER: 1000-watt motor powers through the toughest ingredients and pulverizes ice to snow in seconds for creamy...
Comparison Table: Ninja BN401 vs BN400 Blender
| Feature | Ninja BN401 | Ninja BN400 |
| Brand | Ninja | Ninja |
| Color | Cloud Silver | Stone Silver |
| Motor Power | 1000 watts | 1000 watts |
| Capacity | 24 oz cups | 18 oz & 24 oz cups |
| Auto-iQ Programs | 2 (Smoothie, Crush Ice) | 2 (Smoothie, Crush Ice) |
| Special Features | Dishwasher safe parts, BPA-free, 20-recipe guide | Single-serve, renewed model |
| Material | Plastic | Plastic |
| Dimensions | 6.34″D x 6.93″W x 14.29″H | Similar |
| Weight | 6.3 lbs | Slightly lighter |
| Included Components | 1000W base, blade assembly, (2) 24-oz cups, (2) lids, recipe guide | 1000W base, blade assembly, 18 oz & 24 oz cups, (2) lids |
| Is Dishwasher Safe | Yes | No |
| Buy on Amazon | Buy on Amazon | Buy on Amazon |
Detailed Comparative Review
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Design & Build Quality
Both blenders have that compact, vertical design that Ninja is known for. The BN401 in Cloud Silver has a sleeker, more premium look, while the BN400 in Stone Silver looks just a bit more utilitarian.
The difference is subtle, but when side by side, the BN401 feels more refined. The cups lock into place smoothly, and the controls feel slightly sturdier. The BN400, being renewed, worked just fine, but the finish wasn’t as polished.
For me, the BN401 takes the edge in design, it looks like something you’d proudly keep on your counter.
- ULTIMATE POWER: 1000-peak-watt motor powers through the toughest ingredients and pulverizes ice to snow in seconds for...
- ULTIMATE POWER: 1000-watt motor powers through the toughest ingredients and pulverizes ice to snow in seconds for creamy...
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Ease of Use
This is where both models shine. The Auto-iQ technology makes blending ridiculously easy. Just hit a button for either smoothies or ice crushing, and the machine automatically runs through timed pulses and pauses to give you the best texture.
The BN401 has a slight advantage because the parts are dishwasher safe, which makes cleanup a breeze. With the BN400, I found myself washing everything by hand since it isn’t labeled dishwasher safe. Not a deal-breaker, but definitely something to keep in mind if convenience is a top priority.
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Functions & Performance
Honestly, performance is identical. Both have 1000 watts of power, and both crush ice into snow in seconds. Smoothies come out creamy, even when I tossed in tough ingredients like frozen berries, leafy greens, and ice cubes.
Where the BN400 adds a bit of value is the extra 18-oz cup. Sometimes I don’t want a huge 24-oz smoothie, and the smaller size was perfect for quick protein shakes or smaller servings. The BN401 only comes with two 24-oz cups, which are great but sometimes feel oversized.
So in terms of pure blending, it’s a tie. But the BN400’s variety in cup sizes is a nice touch.
- ULTIMATE POWER: 1000-peak-watt motor powers through the toughest ingredients and pulverizes ice to snow in seconds for...
- ULTIMATE POWER: 1000-watt motor powers through the toughest ingredients and pulverizes ice to snow in seconds for creamy...
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On-the-Go Convenience
Both models are built with grab-and-go in mind. You blend directly in the cup, pop on a spout lid, and you’re ready to head out the door.
- With the BN401, you get two 24-oz cups, which is great if you want to prep for two people or have a backup.
- With the BN400, you get one 18-oz and one 24-oz cup, which I actually liked better for flexibility.
I personally found myself reaching for the 18-oz cup more often than I thought, especially when I just wanted a small shake post-workout.
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Cleaning & Maintenance
Here’s a clear win for the BN401. Being dishwasher safe makes a world of difference. I could toss the cups, lids, and blade assembly into the top rack and be done with it.
With the BN400, I had to wash everything by hand. It’s not hard since the blades detach and the cups are smooth, but it does take more time. If you’re someone who values hassle-free cleanup, the BN401 is worth the extra investment.
- ULTIMATE POWER: 1000-peak-watt motor powers through the toughest ingredients and pulverizes ice to snow in seconds for...
- ULTIMATE POWER: 1000-watt motor powers through the toughest ingredients and pulverizes ice to snow in seconds for creamy...
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Price & Value
This is the deciding factor for many people.
- The BN401 is brand-new, comes with polished features, dishwasher safety, and a recipe guide.
- The BN400 is renewed, so it usually costs less. Performance is still strong, but you’re essentially buying a refurbished version without the extra finishing touches.
If you’re on a tight budget, the BN400 makes a lot of sense. But if you want something brand-new with the convenience of dishwasher-safe parts, the BN401 is the smarter long-term investment.
Ninja BN401 Nutri-Blender Pro Personal Blender
- ULTIMATE POWER: 1000-peak-watt motor powers through the toughest ingredients and pulverizes ice to snow in seconds for...
Pros:
- Brand-new with polished finish
- Dishwasher safe parts (big win for convenience)
- Two 24-oz to-go cups included
- Comes with a recipe inspiration guide
- Same strong 1000W performance
Cons:
- Only comes with 24-oz cups (no smaller option)
- Slightly more expensive
Ninja BN400 Nutri Pro Compact Personal Blender
- ULTIMATE POWER: 1000-watt motor powers through the toughest ingredients and pulverizes ice to snow in seconds for creamy...
Pros:
- Lower price (renewed model)
- Includes both 18-oz and 24-oz cups
- Same 1000W motor and Auto-iQ programs
- Compact and portable
Cons:
- Not dishwasher safe
- Refurbished, so not technically brand new
- Finish isn’t quite as polished
Conclusion & Recommendation
After using both, I can say the performance is virtually the same, smoothies, shakes, and frozen drinks all come out great regardless of which model you pick.
Here’s my breakdown:
- If you value brand-new quality, dishwasher safety, and polished design, go for the Ninja BN401. It’s slightly more expensive but feels like the premium option.
- If you want to save money and don’t mind hand-washing parts, the Ninja BN400 is a solid choice, especially since it comes with both 18-oz and 24-oz cups for more flexibility.
For me personally, the BN401 is the one I’d keep long-term simply because I like the convenience of dishwasher-safe parts. But if I were buying on a tighter budget, I’d have no problem grabbing the BN400, it delivers the same blending power at a lower cost.
Final Verdict:
- Choose BN401 for convenience and premium feel.
- Choose BN400 for affordability and cup-size flexibility.
