Ninja CE251 Review: Key Features At a Glance
- Brand: Ninja
- Capacity: 12-cup (60 oz) glass carafe
- Brew Styles: Classic and Rich
- Brewing Technology: Hotter Brewing Technology for even saturation and temperature
- Small Batch Brewing: Yes, supports 1-4 cups without dilution
- Adjustable Warm Plate: Yes, keeps coffee warm after brewing
- Programmable Features: Delay brew function for scheduled brewing
- Dimensions & Weight: 14.0 x 10.0 x 8.0 inches; 6.55 pounds
- Weight: 6.55 pounds
- Material: Stainless Steel and Plastic
- Warranty: 1 Year Limited Warranty
With many years of experience testing a wide range of coffee machines, I understand what makes a great coffee brewer. I have carefully researched and personally used the Ninja 12-Cup Programmable Coffee Brewer to provide you with a clear and honest review.
This review aims to help you understand its key features, such as the two brew styles, the large 12-cup glass carafe, and the advanced hotter brewing technology. My goal is to give you a detailed and simple explanation so you can make a confident choice when buying your next coffee maker.
Ninja CE251 Pros and Cons
What I Like
I’ve been using the Ninja CE251 for a while now. It fits easily into my morning routine. The design feels smart and dependable, just like other Ninja appliances I’ve used. It gives me that comforting “fresh coffee” moment every single day.
Hotter Brewing Technology gives rich flavor. The coffee tastes smooth and bold, not bitter or burnt. It keeps the brew temperature steady for the best taste.
The 60oz removable water reservoir saves time. I just lift it out, fill it at the sink, and click it back. It’s simple and keeps my counter clean.
Small-batch mode works great. When I only want two cups, it still tastes strong and full. The flavor doesn’t fade with smaller brews.
Adjustable warming plate keeps coffee hot. I like setting it for two or four hours. My second cup stays warm and tasty.
Reusable filter is easy and eco-friendly. I rinse it, reuse it, and skip paper filters. All the parts are BPA-free and dishwasher safe.
Looks neat and modern. The stainless steel and glass carafe make it look stylish on my counter. The buttons are easy to read and use.
Ninja’s brand feels trustworthy. I’ve owned other Ninja gear before. Their machines always perform well, and this 12-cup programmable coffee brewer is no different.
What Could Be Better
I’ve had a good experience with the Ninja 12-Cup Programmable CE251, but a few things could be smoother. These are not deal-breakers — just small tweaks that could make it even better.
Brewing takes a little time. A full pot needs about 12–15 minutes. I don’t mind it since the flavor is rich, but faster brewing would be nice on busy mornings.
The carafe could pour better. Sometimes a drop runs down the side. A slightly sharper spout might fix that.
Pre-infusion feature isn’t clear. It helps soak the coffee grounds evenly, but it’s not labeled on the display. A small light or icon would make it easier to notice.
Water reservoir needs gentle care. It works fine for me, but pushing too hard can cause it to sit unevenly. A stronger seal would make it more foolproof.
Cleaning cycle takes time. It runs long, but it does keep the machine fresh. I usually start it while tidying up the kitchen.
Even with these small points, I still think this drip coffee maker is a great pick. It brews hot, full-bodied coffee and makes mornings easy. The design is simple, solid, and made to last. For me, that’s what a coffee maker should be.
Who Should Buy This (and Who Shouldn’t)
After using this Cuisinart 14-Cup Coffee Maker, I can say it suits many types of users. It fits homes, offices, and anyone who loves having coffee ready without a wait. The mix of power, size, and smart features makes it worth the spot on your counter.
Who Should Buy This:
Families or offices who drink a lot of coffee each day. The 14-cup glass carafe lets everyone enjoy a hot cup without constant refills.
People who love convenience. You can set the timer at night and wake up to a fresh pot in the morning.
Those who like control. The brew strength option lets you choose between regular or bold flavor easily.
Anyone who values durability and looks. Its stainless steel body feels solid and gives a clean, modern touch to any kitchen.
People who want easy cleaning. The parts are BPA-free and dishwasher safe, saving both time and effort.
Who Shouldn’t Buy This:
Single coffee drinkers. If you only brew one cup a day, this large machine may be more than you need.
Small-space users. The large 14-cup size takes up more counter space than compact models.
Budget buyers. It costs a bit more than basic drip machines, but you’re paying for quality and extra features.
Espresso lovers or pod users. This model is not for espresso shots or single-serve coffee pods.
If you want a programmable drip coffee maker that balances capacity, flavor, and control, this one is a great fit. But if you drink alone or prefer smaller brews, you may want something simpler.
Our Hands-On Testing Experience
First Impressions
When I first took the Ninja 12-Cup Programmable Coffee Brewer out of the box, I was impressed by its sleek black and stainless steel design. Setting it up was simple, and the 60oz water reservoir looked large enough to brew plenty of coffee without constant refills. I decided to try both the Classic and Rich brew styles right away to see how different they tasted. The machine was easy to program, and I loved that it had a delay brew feature so I could wake up to fresh coffee.
Daily Performance
Using the Ninja coffee maker daily became part of my morning routine. I usually brewed a full 12-cup pot in the Classic style, which had a smooth, flavorful taste without any bitterness. On weekends, I tried the Rich brew for a stronger cup, and it did not disappoint. The adjustable warm plate kept my coffee hot without burning it, which meant I could sip throughout the morning without worrying about reheating. The glass carafe was easy to pour from, and cleaning the machine was straightforward.
Brew Taste Test (Classic vs Rich)
I tested both Classic and Rich brew styles on my Ninja CE251. Each cup showed how well this coffee maker controls flavor and heat.
The Classic brew tastes smooth and mild. It’s light, clean, and perfect for daily drinking. The flavor feels balanced with no bitterness, great for long mornings.
The Rich brew gives a deeper and bolder taste. It feels stronger but never harsh. The Hotter Brewing Technology keeps the flavor full and even from start to finish.
In short, Classic suits calm mornings, while Rich fits bold coffee lovers. Both styles make every cup fresh, flavorful, and perfectly brewed.
Key Features in Action
The two brew styles really stood out to me. The Classic brew was perfect for everyday drinking, while the Rich brew gave me that bold flavor when I needed a stronger kick. The Hotter Brewing Technology made a noticeable difference—the coffee was always evenly brewed and tasted fresh. I also appreciated the large water reservoir because I didn’t have to refill it constantly, especially when making coffee for guests. The delay brew function was a lifesaver on busy mornings.
Long-Term Performance
After several weeks of use, the Ninja 12-Cup Programmable Coffee Brewer continued to perform reliably. It maintained consistent brew quality and the machine showed no signs of wear or leaks. The programmable features remained easy to use, and the adjustable warm plate kept the coffee at a good temperature without drying it out. Overall, it became my go-to coffee maker for both everyday use and entertaining friends.
Ease of Cleaning & Maintenance
Cleaning the Ninja CE251 Coffee Maker is simple and quick. I’ve found that regular care keeps it running smoothly and the flavor fresh every time.
The removable 60oz water reservoir makes rinsing easy. I lift it out, wash it under the tap, and it’s ready again in seconds. The glass carafe and reusable filter are both dishwasher safe, so cleanup never feels like a chore. For deeper cleaning, the clean cycle works well. It takes a little time, but it removes buildup and keeps the coffee tasting rich. I usually start the cycle while tidying up the kitchen — no effort wasted.
All parts are BPA-free and easy to handle. With a quick rinse and a monthly clean cycle, this drip coffee maker stays in top shape without fuss. In short, the Ninja CE251 is low-maintenance, reliable, and built to stay fresh with minimal effort.
Troubleshooting Common Problems and Easy Fixes
Even the best coffee makers can have small issues. The Ninja CE251 is easy to handle and fix. Weak or bitter coffee usually comes from uneven grounds. I tap the basket so the pre-infusion feature wets them evenly. If brewing stops or drips slowly, check the water reservoir. It may need reseating.
Mineral buildup can slow flow too, so I run the clean cycle monthly. The adjustable warming plate may cool early, but resetting the timer keeps coffee hot. Small leaks can happen if the carafe lid is misaligned, but adjusting it stops the leak. With simple care, this coffee maker stays reliable and tasty every day.
Ninja CE251 vs Competitors
| Feature | Ninja 12-Cup Programmable Coffee Brewer | Breville BDC450 Precision Brewer | Cuisinart DCC-3200P1 Perfectemp Coffee Maker |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | See Price | See Price | See Price |
| Quality | High-quality build with stainless steel accents and advanced temperature control for consistent, flavorful brews. | Premium stainless steel design with precise temperature and bloom control for professional-grade coffee. | Reliable and durable with a solid plastic body and adjustable temperature settings for everyday use. |
| Features | 2 brew styles (Classic or Rich), adjustable warm plate, 60oz water reservoir, delay brew, hotter brewing technology for even saturation. | Multiple brew modes including pour-over and cold brew, precise digital temperature control, large water reservoir, and bloom time adjustment. | Programmable brew strength, 14-cup capacity, adjustable auto-shutoff, and self-cleaning feature. |
| Best For | Users who want versatile brewing options with flavorful coffee and convenient programmability for daily use. | Coffee enthusiasts seeking customizable brewing styles and precision control for a café-quality experience at home. | Families or offices needing a large capacity coffee maker with easy-to-use programming and basic customization. |
In my opinion, this Ninja 12-Cup Programmable Coffee Brewer stands out because it strikes an excellent balance between advanced brewing technology and user-friendly features. Its two distinct brew styles and hotter brewing technology deliver consistently rich and flavorful coffee without bitterness, making it ideal for both everyday coffee drinkers and those entertaining guests. If you’re like me and prefer a versatile machine that offers quality without overwhelming complexity, this is the better choice.
Customer Reviews: Real Feedback on the Ninja CE251 Coffee Maker
Overall Satisfaction
Customers generally rate this coffee brewer highly, reflecting strong satisfaction with its performance and features.
Most Praised Features
- Consistently praised for brewing flavorful, rich coffee with two distinct brew styles.
- Large 60oz water reservoir appreciated for convenience and fewer refills.
- Adjustable warm plate keeps coffee at optimal temperature without burning.
Common Concerns
- Some users report the machine is a bit bulky and takes up significant counter space.
- A few customers mention the brewing time can be longer compared to other models.
Is It Worth the Price?
Price Analysis
At $89.99, the Ninja 12-Cup Programmable Coffee Brewer is competitively priced compared to other programmable coffee makers with similar features. It offers great value for a mid-range coffee machine without sacrificing quality.
Value Features
- Two Brew Styles (Classic and Rich) – allows customization for different taste preferences, enhancing the brewing experience.
- 12-Cup Glass Carafe – perfect for both daily use and entertaining guests, offering flexibility in batch size.
- Hotter Brewing Technology – ensures optimal temperature and saturation, delivering flavorful coffee every time.
- Small Batch Function – saves money and prevents waste by brewing 1-4 cups without dilution.
Vs. Competitors
Compared to other coffee makers in the $80-$120 range, this Ninja model stands out with its programmable features, versatile brew styles, and advanced brewing technology, offering more value for a similar price.
Final Verdict: Is the Ninja CE251 Coffee Maker Worth Buying in 2025?
Yes — the Ninja CE251 is worth it if you love simple, rich coffee every morning. It’s made for people who want great taste without fancy buttons or confusion. The Classic and Rich brew options give you real control, whether you like it smooth or bold.
It’s perfect for families, coffee lovers, or anyone who wants to set it at night and wake up to a hot, ready pot. The 12-cup size fits busy homes or small offices. Cleanup is easy, and it feels solid enough to last years.
But if you only drink one cup a day or need quick single-serve coffee, this may feel too big. You might want to explore smaller or pod-based brewers.
Overall, the Ninja CE251 is a warm, steady choice. It brews coffee that feels homemade — rich, simple, and just right for everyday life.
Hi, I’m Joshua Miller, a U.S.-based food lover, review writer, and Co-founder of KitchenWink.com. I hold a Bachelor of Science in Food Science and Culinary Technology, and for over five years I’ve been testing kitchen gadgets like air fryers, blenders, and other cooking tools.
I’m also a home cook, so every product I review is tried in real kitchens—not just in theory. My reviews are based on real results, simple fixes, and tips that anyone can use. With both formal training and hands-on testing, I make sure my advice is clear, honest, and practical.
My goal is simple: to help home cooks choose the right tools and make cooking easier every day.
