Choosing between coffee grounds and convenient coffee pods can be difficult, especially when different people in your household prefer different brewing methods. The Ninja DualBrew Hot & Iced Coffee Maker CFP101 aims to solve that problem by combining both options in one machine.
In this Ninja CFP101 review, we examine its most important features, hot and iced coffee options, ease of use, advantages, disadvantages and overall value.
The CFP101 can brew coffee from grounds or compatible pods. It offers nine ground-coffee sizes, four pod sizes and three brewing styles: Classic, Rich and Over Ice. It also includes a 12-cup glass carafe, a removable 60-ounce water reservoir, Delay Brew and an adjustable warming plate.
But does having more options actually make this coffee maker better for everyday use? Let’s take a closer look.
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Editorial note: This review is based on official product specifications and feature research. It should not be interpreted as a long-term hands-on product test.
Ninja CFP101 Review: Quick Overview
| Feature | Details |
| Product | Ninja DualBrew Hot & Iced Coffee Maker |
| Model | CFP101 |
| Coffee type | Grounds and coffee pods |
| Ground-coffee sizes | 9 |
| Pod sizes | 6, 8, 10 and 12 ounces |
| Brewing styles | Classic, Rich and Over Ice |
| Carafe | 12-cup glass carafe |
| Water reservoir | Removable 60-ounce reservoir |
| Warming plate | Up to four hours |
| Delay Brew | Yes |
| Built-in frother | No |
| Permanent filter | Sold separately |
| Product dimensions | 13.07 × 12.01 × 17.4 inches |
| Weight | 11.55 pounds |
| Warranty | One-year limited warranty |
These specifications are based on the official SharkNinja product listing.
Our quick verdict
The Ninja CFP101 is best for households that regularly switch between coffee grounds, pods, single servings and full carafes. Its wide selection of drink sizes and dedicated Over Ice mode make it more versatile than a basic drip coffee maker.
However, it does not make espresso and does not include a built-in milk frother or reusable permanent filter.
Our editorial rating: 4.3 out of 5
Best for: Families, couples and home offices with different coffee preferences.
Consider another model if: You want espresso, automatic milk frothing, a thermal carafe or a very compact machine.
The following part of our Ninja CFP101 review examines the features that make this combination brewer different from a standard drip coffee maker.
What Is the Ninja DualBrew CFP101?
The Ninja CFP101 is a combination coffee maker designed to brew both ground coffee and single-use coffee pods.
Instead of keeping one traditional coffee maker for carafes and another machine for pods, you can use the CFP101 for both. The machine comes with separate adapters for ground coffee and coffee pods.
When using ground coffee, you can choose from nine serving sizes:
- Small Cup
- Cup
- XL Cup
- Travel Mug
- XL Travel Mug
- Quarter Carafe
- Half Carafe
- Three-Quarter Carafe
- Full Carafe
When using a coffee pod, you can select a 6-, 8-, 10- or 12-ounce serving. The machine also lets you choose Classic, Rich or Over Ice with grounds or pods.
This flexibility is the CFP101’s biggest advantage. You can prepare a quick cup before work, fill a travel mug, brew coffee over ice or make a complete carafe for your family or guests.
What Comes in the Box?
The standard CFP101 package includes:
- Ninja DualBrew CFP101 coffee maker
- 12-cup glass carafe
- Ninja Pod Adapter
- Grounds Adapter
- Removable brew basket
- Ninja Smart Scoop
- Paper filter kit
A reusable permanent filter is not included in the standard package. SharkNinja lists it as an optional accessory sold separately.
The Smart Scoop helps measure an appropriate amount of coffee for different serving sizes. This is useful because a single cup requires considerably fewer grounds than a half or full carafe.
Six Best Ninja CFP101 Features
1. Brews Both Coffee Grounds and Pods
The most important feature in our Ninja CFP101 review is its dual brewing system.
Coffee grounds provide more freedom to choose the bean, roast, grind and strength. They may also cost less per cup than pods.
Coffee pods offer speed and convenience. You insert a pod, select the desired amount and start brewing without measuring loose coffee.
The CFP101 lets you enjoy both methods without keeping two coffee makers on your counter. This is especially helpful when one family member prefers freshly ground coffee while another wants the convenience of pods.
You must change the brewing adapter when switching between grounds and pods, so the process is not completely automatic. However, changing the adapter should only take a few moments.
2. Multiple Serving Sizes
The CFP101 provides nine sizes for ground coffee, ranging from a small cup to a complete carafe.
This means you do not have to brew an entire pot when you only need one mug. You can also fill larger travel mugs directly from the machine.
For coffee pods, the machine offers four familiar serving sizes: 6, 8, 10 and 12 ounces.
A smaller serving generally produces a stronger pod-based drink, while the 10- or 12-ounce settings are more suitable for larger cups.
The fold-down single-serve platform can hold smaller cups closer to the outlet, helping reduce splashing while the coffee is brewing.
3. Classic, Rich and Over Ice Modes
The CFP101 includes three brewing styles for both grounds and pods. During our Ninja CFP101 review research, the Over Ice option stood out as one of the machine’s most practical features for warm-weather drinks.
Classic
Classic produces a smooth, balanced cup suitable for everyday coffee. It is a good starting point when drinking coffee black or with a small amount of milk.
Rich
Rich creates a more concentrated flavor. It is particularly useful when adding milk, cream, sugar or flavored syrup because the coffee is less likely to become overpowered by the additional ingredients.
Rich mode does not produce espresso. It is still drip-style coffee, but with a stronger flavor.
Over Ice
Over Ice brews concentrated hot coffee directly over a cup filled with ice. The stronger brew is designed to maintain its flavor as some of the ice melts.
It is important to understand that this is not traditional cold brew. Cold brew normally requires ground coffee to steep in cool water for several hours. The CFP101 uses hot extraction and cools the finished coffee over ice.
4. Removable 60-Ounce Water Reservoir
The machine includes a removable 60-ounce reservoir that can be lifted from the brewer and carried directly to the sink.
A removable reservoir is generally easier to fill and clean than one permanently attached to the coffee maker. You do not have to pour water into a narrow opening while the machine is positioned beneath a kitchen cabinet.
The reservoir is located on the side of the machine, making the remaining water level easy to check.
One important consideration is the machine’s height. The CFP101 is approximately 17.4 inches tall, so measure the space between your countertop and upper cabinets before ordering it.
You should also leave enough room to remove the reservoir and access the top of the machine comfortably.
5. Adjustable Warming Plate
The CFP101 comes with a 12-cup glass carafe and an adjustable warming plate.
The plate can keep coffee warm for up to four hours and provides three temperature settings.
This is useful when family members drink coffee at different times during the morning. You can prepare a carafe and keep it warm instead of brewing several separate batches.
However, it is still a glass carafe rather than a thermal one. The warming plate must remain active to maintain the temperature.
Coffee can gradually lose freshness when it sits on a warming plate for a long time. The four-hour option is convenient, but the coffee will usually taste better when consumed sooner.
6. Programmable Delay Brew
Delay Brew allows you to prepare the machine in advance and schedule it to begin brewing later.
For example, you can fill the reservoir, add ground coffee and program the machine before going to bed. It can then prepare a fresh carafe around the time you normally wake up.
This feature is particularly helpful for busy mornings when you want coffee ready without measuring grounds and water immediately after getting out of bed.
Does the Ninja CFP101 Make Good Iced Coffee?
The Over Ice setting is one of the main reasons to choose the CFP101 instead of a basic drip coffee maker.
For the best result, fill your cup or travel mug completely with ice before starting the brewing cycle. The machine creates concentrated hot coffee over the ice, which helps prevent the finished drink from tasting excessively watery.
Some ice will melt during brewing. This is normal and forms part of the final drink.
The result will not taste exactly like traditional cold brew. Hot-brewed iced coffee usually has a brighter aroma and more noticeable acidity than coffee extracted slowly in cold water.
However, the CFP101 offers a much faster method. You do not need to prepare your drink many hours in advance.
After brewing, you can add:
- Cold milk
- Cream
- Flavored syrup
- Caramel sauce
- Vanilla
- Sweetened cold foam
Because the machine does not include a milk frother, foam or frothed milk must be prepared with a separate appliance.
Is the Ninja CFP101 Easy to Use?
Despite having many options, the brewing process is relatively straightforward:
- Fill the water reservoir.
- Install the Grounds Adapter or Pod Adapter.
- Add ground coffee or insert a compatible pod.
- Place your cup, travel mug or carafe under the outlet.
- Select the serving size.
- Select Classic, Rich or Over Ice.
- Begin brewing.
The control panel is positioned on the front of the machine, where the serving-size and brewing-style buttons are easy to see.
There may be a short learning period while you become familiar with changing adapters and selecting the proper serving sizes. After several uses, the process should become much easier.
The biggest inconvenience is storing and changing the adapter that is not being used. This is a minor compromise for having grounds and pod brewing in one machine.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Regular cleaning helps protect the machine and prevents old coffee oils or mineral buildup from affecting the flavor.
After brewing, remove the used coffee pod or paper filter. Wash the removable brew basket and the adapter used during the brewing cycle.
The glass carafe, lid, water reservoir and reusable components should also be cleaned regularly according to the manufacturer’s care instructions.
The coffee maker includes a cleaning indicator that lets you know when a cleaning or descaling cycle is recommended.
The frequency of descaling depends on your water. Hard water contains more minerals, so homes with hard water may need to clean the internal brewing system more frequently.
Simple cleaning tips
- Remove used grounds and pods after every brew.
- Rinse the carafe daily.
- Wash the reservoir regularly.
- Wipe the exterior with a soft damp cloth.
- Do not use rough metal cleaning tools.
- Run the cleaning cycle when the indicator appears.
- Follow the official instructions when descaling.
Keeping the machine clean should help maintain better flavor and more consistent brewing.
Ninja CFP101 Pros and Cons
To make this Ninja CFP101 review more balanced, it is important to consider the machine’s limitations as well as its convenient brewing options.
Pros
Brews grounds and pods: The dual system accommodates different coffee preferences.
Many serving sizes: You can prepare anything from a small cup to a complete carafe.
Dedicated iced-coffee setting: Over Ice creates a stronger brew intended to be served immediately over ice.
Removable reservoir: The 60-ounce tank is convenient to fill and clean.
Adjustable warming plate: Coffee can remain warm for up to four hours using three temperature settings.
Programmable brewing: Delay Brew can prepare coffee automatically at a selected time.
Can replace two appliances: It combines many functions of a traditional drip coffee maker and a pod machine.
Cons
No built-in milk frother: You need a separate frother for lattes and other milk-based drinks.
Does not make espresso: Rich coffee is stronger, but it is not authentic espresso.
Permanent filter sold separately: The standard package includes a paper filter kit.
Requires adapter changes: You must switch components when moving between grounds and pods.
Tall design: At approximately 17.4 inches high, it may not fit easily under every cabinet.
Glass carafe: It depends on the warming plate rather than thermal insulation.
One-year warranty: The official product listing includes a one-year limited warranty.
Who Should Buy the Ninja CFP101?
The CFP101 is a good option for:
- Families with different coffee preferences
- People who use both grounds and pods
- Iced-coffee drinkers
- Households that alternate between single cups and carafes
- Users who want programmable morning coffee
- Home offices
- People trying to replace two separate coffee makers
Its flexibility makes the most sense when you will genuinely use several of its brewing options.
Who Should Skip It?
Consider another coffee maker when:
- You primarily drink espresso
- You want a built-in grinder
- You need automatic milk frothing
- You prefer traditional cold brew
- You want a thermal carafe
- Your counter has limited vertical space
- You only use pods
- You only brew full carafes
A simpler coffee maker may be less expensive and easier to maintain when you only use one brewing method.
Is the Ninja CFP101 Worth It?
The Ninja CFP101 is worth considering when convenience and flexibility are your top priorities.
Its greatest advantage is not one individual feature. It is the ability to prepare ground coffee, pod coffee, single cups, travel mugs, iced coffee and complete carafes from one appliance.
The machine is less valuable for someone who always drinks the same type and quantity of coffee. A pod-only or traditional drip machine could be more affordable in that situation.
The CFP101 also should not be confused with an espresso or café-style machine. It does not use espresso pressure, steam milk or automatically prepare cappuccinos.
At the time this review was prepared, the official product page listed the CFP101 at $169.99. Prices and availability may change, so check the current listing before purchasing.
Overall, our Ninja CFP101 review suggests that its value depends on how often you will use both the grounds and pod brewing systems.
Final verdict
The Ninja DualBrew CFP101 is a practical all-in-one coffee maker for households that regularly switch between grounds, pods, hot coffee and iced coffee.
It offers useful customization without becoming unnecessarily complicated. The removable reservoir, multiple sizes, Delay Brew and adjustable warming plate strengthen its everyday convenience.
Its main limitations are the lack of a milk frother, espresso brewing, thermal carafe and included permanent filter.
Our recommendation: Choose the CFP101 for versatility and convenient everyday coffee—not for authentic espresso or fully automatic café drinks.
Check Current Price at SharkNinja
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the Ninja CFP101 use coffee pods?
Yes. The included Pod Adapter supports compatible single-use coffee pods in 6-, 8-, 10- and 12-ounce sizes.
Does the Ninja CFP101 make iced coffee?
Yes. Select Over Ice and brew concentrated hot coffee directly over a cup filled with ice.
Is Over Ice the same as cold brew?
No. Over Ice uses hot extraction. Traditional cold brew is prepared by steeping coffee in cool water for several hours.
Does it make espresso?
No. The CFP101 makes drip-style coffee. Rich mode produces a more concentrated flavor, but it is not authentic espresso.
Does it include a milk frother?
No. You need to purchase and use a separate milk frother.
Does it include a permanent filter?
No. The package includes a paper filter kit. SharkNinja sells a compatible reusable filter separately.
How large is the water reservoir?
The removable reservoir holds 60 ounces of water.
How long can it keep coffee warm?
The adjustable warming plate can keep coffee warm for up to four hours and offers three temperature settings.
How tall is the Ninja CFP101?
The official height is approximately 17.4 inches. Measure your cabinet clearance and leave additional space for accessing the machine.
Final Thoughts on This Ninja CFP101 Review
Our Ninja CFP101 review finds that this machine is most valuable for people who want several coffee options without filling their counter with multiple appliances.
It handles everyday hot coffee, pods, travel mugs, full carafes and refreshing iced drinks. Although it cannot make espresso or froth milk, it provides a strong balance of convenience and customization for regular coffee drinkers.
For a household that uses both grounds and pods, the Ninja CFP101 can be a worthwhile and space-saving addition to the kitchen.
View the Ninja CFP101 and Check Today’s Price
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