I have a Ninja Pro System 1100 and love it. I didn't want to put the money out for a Vitamix when all I really needed was a more powerful blender, and the Ninja was a HUGE improvement over the blender I was using. I decided on the Ninja after watching videos on YouTube and I'd suggest taking advantage of those.

I have both the 72-oz. pitcher and the 40-oz. bowl, which also sold me on the unit, plus the blades for whipping, a dough blade and dough paddle along with the 6-blade assembly for the tall pitcher. I use the Ninja more than any blender I've ever owned, and I've owned blenders since 1970.

The first chapter in the 216-page Ninja (150 recipes) Cookbook is all about juice blends and smoothies, and the second chapter is frozen drink specialties; and I'm sure you would find either great recipes to try or inspiration for your own concoctions. We're whole foods people, so I don't make much effort blending and juicing so no personal experience.

I needed an up-grade for using with recipes in "No Wheat Grinder Wheat Recipes" by Cindi Van Bibber where you blend cooked whole wheat berries in a blender + other ingredients to make a wide variety of recipes (including breads, cookies, main dishes, etc). It's more than powerful enough for this use.

-Grainlady

I also have a Ninja, purchased at Bed, Bath and Beyond - it was on clearance & also used a 20% coupon and just could not resist it. I knew nothing about it prior to buying it.
It is the most wonderful blender I have ever used.
I make a version of the Pioneer Woman Salsa in the large pitcher and it is perfect.
I cook for my little dog - who has many missing teeth, so I have to grind the food - the Ninja has made the task much easier. It is so easy to clean. I love mine.

Here is a link that might be useful: NINJA

I have a Ninja and also bought it at BB&B with a coupon. I love it! My Vitamix hasn't come out of the pantry since I got the Ninja.

Thanks! I read some bad reviews along with some good ones. I have a $72 credit, and with the 20% off coupon, that will bring the out-of-pocket cost way down! I love the Magic Bullet, but it doesn't blend enough volume at one time, and it sounds like the motor is going to go out soon, so I think I'll get the Ninja next time I get a coupon in the mail. I'd love a Vitamix, but they're pretty pricy and too tall for my drainboard since they all have cabinets above.

I would love to have a Vitamix also but haven't wanted to spend that much money. I have a Jack LaLanne juicer but I too would like to get the benifit of the peelings and the pulp mixed into the juice for better nutrition.

Kathy, does the Ninja do as good as job as the Vitamix?

Karen

Karen, As good or better but then my Vitamix is 12 years old.

OT: Are you and Steve coming down this year; I think I read that you were.

We are down here Cathy. Left a few days after Christmas.

I'll send you an email and maybe we can get together.

Karen

I just realized this is an old thread but I will comment anyway. It is a useful blender and although it can't compare to the Vitamix in any way, it is about a third the price.

I have both but must use my Vitamix when I want something strong enough to completely puree raspberries for jam and to make applesauce with peels on.