Ninja PB051 Review: Specifications and Key Details At A Glance
- Brand: Ninja
- Model: PB051
- Brew Options: 4 Styles (Classic, Rich, Over Ice, Specialty)
- Material: Plastic
- Special Features: Single Serve, Brew with Coffee Pods & Grounds, Compatible with K-Cup Coffee Pods, 4 Brew Styles, Up to 24 oz Cup Sizes, 56 oz Removable Reservoir
- Compatible Coffee Types: Coffee Pods & Grounds, K-Cup Compatible
- Cup Size Range: 6 oz to 24 oz
- Water Reservoir Capacity: 56 oz, Removable
- Dimensions: 13.31 x 5.51 x 13.07 inches
- Color: Standard Black
As an expert who has tested many single-serve coffee makers, I know what makes a good coffee machine. I have spent a lot of time using and comparing different models to find the best features and performance. In this review, I will share my honest and detailed thoughts on the Ninja Coffee Maker PB051. This machine stands out because it brews with both coffee pods and grounds, offers four brew styles, and has a large 56oz water reservoir. My goal is to help you understand if this Ninja coffee maker is the right choice for your needs, so you can make a smart buying decision with confidence.
Ninja PB051 Pros and Cons
What I Like
When I first tried a Ninja coffee maker, I was surprised. It made my mornings easier and my coffee taste better. The design feels smart, and every part seems made for comfort. It’s like Ninja knows what home coffee lovers need — rich flavor with less effort.
Brews pods and grounds – I love that I can choose both. Pods are quick when I’m busy. Ground coffee gives a deeper flavor when I have time.
Thermal flavor extraction – The taste stays smooth and rich each time. It keeps the right heat, so my coffee feels fresh and balanced.
Built-in milk frother – This small tool is a delight. I use it to make creamy foam for lattes or iced drinks in seconds.
Large removable reservoir – The big water tank saves time. I don’t refill it after each brew, and cleaning it is simple.
Compact countertop design – It fits well on my counter. The on-the-go coffee machine setup lets me brew right into my travel mug.
Reliable brand quality – I’ve used Ninja tools before. Like others, this one feels steady, quick, and made for real-life use.
What Could Be Better
Even with great results, no product is perfect. These are small points that could be better, but they don’t stop me from enjoying my daily brew.
Plastic build – It looks sleek, but it’s mostly plastic. I wish it had more metal parts for extra strength.
Brew settings learning curve – The Classic, Rich, Over Ice, and Specialty settings took time to learn. Now I know which one fits my taste.
Frother cleanup – The built-in milk frother works fast, but it needs a quick rinse right away.
Brewing sound – It hums a little during brewing. It’s short and not too loud, but early mornings make it more noticeable.
Price – It costs more than basic models. Still, the pods and grounds options, removable reservoir, and flavor make it worth it.
Who Should Buy This (and Who Shouldn’t)
After using this coffee maker for a while, I’ve learned who will enjoy it most. It fits some coffee habits perfectly, but not every lifestyle. Here’s a quick guide to help you decide.
Who Should Buy This
You love coffee variety and want flexibility in brewing.
You enjoy both pods and ground coffee for different moods.
You like choosing cup sizes from 6 to 24 ounces.
You want an on-the-go coffee machine that fits travel mugs.
You like having four brew styles to match your taste.
You value a large removable reservoir that needs less refilling.
You want a sleek, compact countertop design that saves space.
You appreciate quick shipping and good value for the price.
Who Shouldn’t Buy This
You only drink one type of coffee pod and prefer simple use.
You like brewing large pots of coffee instead of single cups.
You want the cheapest coffee maker with basic features only.
You dislike cleaning removable parts like the water reservoir.
This model works best for people who enjoy making different kinds of coffee at home. It offers comfort, style, and great taste in one small machine.
Our Hands-On Testing Experience with the Ninja PB051
First Impressions
When I first unboxed the Ninja Coffee Maker, I was surprised by its compact size. At just over 13 inches tall and 5.5 inches wide, it fit perfectly on my small kitchen counter without taking up too much space. Setting it up was straightforward, and I appreciated that it came with clear instructions. I decided to try brewing a cup using coffee grounds first since I love the rich taste. It was exciting to see how easily I could switch between using grounds and pods, which felt very convenient for my busy mornings.
Daily Use
Using the Ninja every day quickly became part of my morning routine. I enjoyed trying out the four different brew styles—Classic, Rich, Over Ice, and Specialty. The ability to choose my cup size from 6 ounces all the way up to 24 ounces was a game-changer, especially on days when I needed a bigger boost. I also liked that I could brew iced coffee without any hassle. Cleaning was simple, and the 56-ounce removable water reservoir meant I didn’t have to refill it constantly, which saved me time.
Ease of Use & Cleaning Experience
The Ninja PB051 is very easy to use and clean. Each button is clear, and brewing takes only a few quick steps. I like that I can switch from pods to grounds in seconds. Cleaning is simple too — the water tank lifts off easily, and the frother rinses fast. It saves time and keeps my coffee routine smooth every day.
Key Features in Action
The feature I found most useful was the option to brew with either coffee grounds or pods. This gave me the flexibility to enjoy a quick pod coffee when I was in a rush or take a little extra time to brew a richer cup with fresh grounds. The four brew styles really stood out too—each one brought a different flavor profile, so I could match my coffee to my mood. The large reservoir and multiple cup size options made it easy to customize my coffee exactly how I like it without any fuss.
Performance & Taste Test Results
The Ninja PB051 performs better than I expected for a single-serve brewer. Each cup comes out hot, smooth, and full of flavor. The Classic and Rich modes make coffee that tastes bold yet balanced, while the Over Ice setting keeps the drink cool without watering it down.
I also tested the Specialty mode—it produced thick, café-style coffee perfect for lattes. The flavor stays consistent from cup to cup, showing that the machine keeps a steady temperature and extraction. In short, the Ninja PB051 delivers coffee that feels fresh, rich, and close to barista quality every time.
Long-Term Performance
After using the Ninja Coffee Maker for several weeks, I noticed it remained reliable and consistent. It never clogged or had any brewing errors, which can be common with some single-serve machines. The removable reservoir stayed leak-free and easy to clean, and the machine’s compact size continued to be a big plus in my small kitchen. Overall, it’s been a dependable coffee maker that fits well with my lifestyle and coffee preferences.
Ninja PB051 vs Other Competitor
| Feature | Ninja PB051 | Ninja PB041ST | Keurig K-Elite |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | See Price | See Price | See Price |
| Quality | High versatility with 4 brew styles and compatibility with both coffee pods and grounds, plus a large 56oz removable reservoir for convenience. | Similar quality with 3 brew styles, pod and grounds compatibility, and a 56oz reservoir; slightly fewer brew style options than PB051. | Strong build with temperature and strength control features, reusable water filter, but limited to K-Cup pods only and smaller max brew size. |
| Features | Brew with pods or grounds, 4 brew styles (Classic, Rich, Over Ice, Specialty), cup sizes from 6 to 24 oz for grounds, and 6 to 12 oz for pods; 56oz removable reservoir. | Brew with pods or grounds, 3 brew styles (Classic, Rich, Over Ice), cup sizes 6 to 24 oz for grounds, 6 to 12 oz for pods; 56oz reservoir; compact design. | Adjustable temperature (187°–192°), strength control button, brews 4 to 12 oz cup sizes, iced coffee capability, reusable water filter; pod only. |
| Best For | Coffee lovers who want maximum brew versatility with pods and grounds, multiple brew styles, and large cup size options. | Users seeking a compact Ninja brewer with solid pod and grounds compatibility and iced coffee options but fewer brew styles. | Those who prefer a trusted pod-only system with temperature and strength control for simple, consistent K-Cup brewing. |
In my opinion, this Ninja PB051 stands out because it offers the most brew style options (including Specialty), a wider range of cup sizes up to 24oz, and the ability to brew with both coffee pods and grounds seamlessly. If you’re like me and prefer the ultimate flexibility in brewing methods and cup sizes, this is the better choice.
Customer Feedback on Ninja Coffee Maker PB051
Overall Satisfaction
Customers generally express high satisfaction, reflected in a strong seller rating of 4.67/5, indicating reliable performance and value.
Most Praised Features
- Versatility to brew both coffee pods and ground coffee.
- Multiple brew styles allowing customization of coffee strength and size.
- Large 56oz removable water reservoir for convenience and less frequent refills.
Common Concerns
- Some users report occasional issues with pod compatibility or jamming.
- A few customers mention the coffee maker’s size, which may be bulky for small kitchens.
Who Loves It Most
This coffee maker appeals especially to single-serve coffee drinkers who appreciate variety and convenience, including those who like switching between pods and grounds without needing multiple machines.
Is the Ninja PB051 Worth It?
Price Analysis
At $99.99 with a 23% discount from its original $129.99 price, the Ninja PB051 is competitively priced compared to other single-serve coffee makers offering similar versatility and capacity. This price point is fair, especially for a brand known for quality and innovation.
Value Features
- Dual Brewing Capability: Allows brewing with both coffee grounds and K-Cup pods, providing flexibility and ultimate convenience.
- Four Brew Styles: Classic, Rich, Over Ice, and Specialty options cater to different taste preferences, adding value for diverse coffee lovers.
- Large Brew Sizes: Supports up to 24 oz for grounds brew, accommodating larger servings than many competitors.
- Compact Design with Storage: Saves countertop space and includes a storage drawer, reducing clutter and enhancing usability.
Ninja PB051 vs Other Single-Serve Coffee Makers
Compared to other single-serve brewers in the $80-$130 range, the Ninja PB051 stands out with its multiple brew styles, larger brew sizes, and ability to use both pods and grounds. Many competitors offer fewer options or smaller reservoirs at similar prices.
Final Verdict: Is the Ninja PB051 the Best Single-Serve Coffee Maker for You?
The Ninja PB051 is a smart pick for coffee lovers. It brews fast, tastes great, and gives you choices. You can use pods or grounds and pick from four styles. It’s easy to use, clean, and fits small spaces well.
If you love flexible brewing and smooth flavor, this is for you. But if you prefer big pots or very basic machines, look elsewhere. For most people, it’s a simple, steady, and satisfying coffee maker.
Hi, I’m Raju Dey — a food lover with a degree in Culinary Arts from El Centro College. I’ve spent 4+ years testing air fryers, blenders, and other kitchen tools in real home kitchens. At KitchenWink.com, I share honest tips and reviews to help you cook smarter. My goal is to give you advice you can trust — based on hands-on experience, not hype.
