The Ninja SLUSHi MAX Frozen Drink Maker has become an essential item for summer social events. We tested it at a farewell party for a friend moving to Australia, and it proved to be the perfect centrepiece for a memorable send-off. The machine arrived in a large box but was mostly assembled, making setup straightforward. It is a visually striking appliance that can produce slushies for up to ten people at once. Placing it on a flat surface is crucial, but the design includes clever features to simplify the process.
First Impressions and Setup
The packaging contained a substantial machine that feels industrial-grade yet elegant. The mocha colour complemented our kitchen cabinets perfectly. One of the standout aspects is the inclusion of instructional stickers placed directly on the machine. These provide clear guidance without needing to read a lengthy manual, which is ideal for those who prefer a quick start. We left some stickers on to highlight the thoughtful design, but they can be removed easily before use.
Performance and Ease of Use
The Ninja SLUSHi MAX is incredibly user-friendly, making it accessible to all age groups. We used the Frozen Cocktail Max setting, which kept the drinks perfectly chilled with the right consistency. A key tip is to keep the liquid topped up to the max line on this setting to prevent freezing inside the machine. Alternatively, the frozen cocktail setting works well but melts faster. We initially planned to make Aperol Spritz slushies but ended up using ready-made buzz balls due to time constraints, which worked brilliantly and created an instant party vibe.
The machine allows you to adjust the temperature on the right side to achieve your desired consistency. This feature is particularly clever and ensures that every drink is perfect. The self-cleaning function is another highlight; simply add water and a little washing-up liquid, press the rinse button, and the device cleans itself. Ninja has truly thought of everything.
Design and Versatility
Despite its large capacity, the Ninja SLUSHi MAX does not look cumbersome. Its sleek, modern design fits seamlessly into any setting, from a wedding reception to a family barbecue. It is equally suitable for children's parties when used with non-alcoholic drinks, offering a cost-effective alternative to cinema slushies. For adults, pairing it with stylish cocktail glasses from John Lewis enhances the experience.
Comparison with Other Models
Slushie machines can be expensive, with some models costing over £1,000. However, there are more affordable options. The HiCOZY F1 Slush Machine is priced at £159.99 (currently £129.98) and makes milkshakes and frappes as well as cocktails. The GERMANICA Frozen Drink Maker is available for £45.99 at Currys, while the Neo Deluxe Ice Crusher Slush Machine costs £41.99 but lacks multiple settings. Ninja's own SLUSHi Frozen Drink Maker (£299.99) keeps drinks frozen for up to 12 hours and operates quietly with a WhisperChill compressor. The SLUSHi MAX holds more liquid and keeps drinks extra cold.
Unlike the Ninja CREAMi, which is designed for frozen desserts and requires 24-hour freezing of ingredients, the SLUSHi is purpose-built for icy drinks and requires no advance preparation.
Verdict
The Ninja SLUSHi MAX Frozen Drink Maker is a must-have for any summer gathering. It is a great buy that will be handy for all types of events. We have already promised to lend it to friends for upcoming celebrations. Keeping the original box is recommended for safe transport. The self-cleaning feature adds to its convenience. Ninja has literally thought of everything with this machine.
