New York City endured a brutal heat wave last weekend, with temperatures climbing into the mid-90s and humidity making it feel even worse. For TechCrunch contributor Lauren Forristal, that meant one thing: a craving for a frozen drink every afternoon. Instead of walking to the nearest 7-Eleven for a Slurpee, she stayed home and put the new Ninja Slushi Twist through its paces.
Ninja’s latest entry into the frozen drink category builds on the original Slushi, but with a notable upgrade. Instead of a single mixing chamber, the Slushi Twist features two 48-ounce vessels that can operate independently. That means you can whip up a batch of strawberry slush on one side while the other churns out a creamy vanilla milkshake — at the same time.
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Two drinks, one machine
For anyone who entertains regularly, the dual-vessel design solves a real logistical problem. Rather than making multiple batches or forcing guests to agree on a single flavor, both chambers run simultaneously. Ninja claims the machine can produce more than 10 drinks per batch, enough for a small party or a large family gathering.
The key technology behind the Slushi Twist is what Ninja calls “Dual SlushAssist.” In practical terms, the machine senses the contents of each chamber and adjusts the freezing temperature independently. A creamy milkshake stays smooth on one side while a fruit slush freezes to a firmer, icier consistency on the other. This prevents the common problem of one drink freezing solid while another remains too thin.
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The twist dispenser is the standout feature for casual use. A dial on the drip tray lets you pour each drink separately or swirl both flavors together into a single glass. The result is a layered drink that looks far more elaborate than the effort required to make it.
Cleaning and counter considerations
Cleaning is straightforward. A rinse button triggers a warm-water cycle that flushes out the mixing chambers until the water runs clear. No disassembly or scrubbing is required for routine cleaning.
There are two practical drawbacks to consider before buying. The Slushi Twist is noticeably larger than the original model, so counter or storage space needs to be measured in advance. At $399.99, it is also a significant investment. For someone who makes an occasional frozen drink, the original single-vessel Slushi at a lower price point may be a better fit. But for larger households or anyone who regularly hosts gatherings, the dual-vessel design makes a strong case for itself.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does the Ninja Slushi Twist cost?
The Ninja Slushi Twist has a retail price of $399.99.
What types of drinks can the Ninja Slushi Twist make?
It can make slushies, frappés, milkshakes, frozen coffees, smoothies, and cocktails.
How do you clean the Ninja Slushi Twist?
Cleaning is done by pressing the rinse button and adding warm water until the water runs clear.
