Ninja Slushi Twist review: a slushie machine for the heat wave

Last weekend's brutal NYC heat wave had me craving a frozen drink almost every afternoon. Normally, that would mean sweating through a walk to 7-Eleven for a slurpee. This time, though, I stayed home and put the new Ninja Slushi Twist to the test.

Ninja's latest slushie machine builds on the popularity of the original Slushi, but with a big upgrade. Instead of a single mixing chamber, the Slushi Twist has two 48-ounce vessels that can make two completely different frozen drinks at the same time. Beyond classic slushies, it can also make frappés, milkshakes, frozen coffees, and smoothies — and because the two sides work independently, you can even keep one alcohol-free for mocktails while the other side mixes up cocktails.

For entertaining, this machine solves a real problem. Instead of making multiple batches or asking everyone to agree on one flavor, both chambers run simultaneously, making enough frozen drinks for a crowd. Ninja says it can make more than 10 drinks per batch — plenty for summer parties or family gatherings.

The standout feature is what Ninja calls 'Dual SlushAssist' technology. In plain terms, the machine senses what's in each chamber and adjusts the freezing temperature for that side on its own. That means a creamy milkshake can stay smooth on one side while a fruit slush freezes to the perfect icy consistency on the other.

My favorite feature, though, is the twist dispenser. You can pour each drink separately or turn the dial on the drip tray to swirl both flavors together into one glass, which is great for making layered drinks that look way more impressive than the effort they take. Cleaning is easy, too.

Just hit the rinse button and keep adding warm water until it runs clear. There are two things to keep in mind before buying. The Slushi Twist is noticeably larger than the original model, so you'll want to make sure you have enough counter or storage space.

At $399.99, it's also a significant investment. If you only make the occasional frozen drink, it may be more machine than you need. But for larger households or anyone who loves hosting, the dual-vessel design makes a strong case for itself.

The Ninja Slushi Twist's ability to produce a variety of frozen drinks with ease has significant implications for both home users and small businesses. For households with multiple members or for those who frequently host gatherings, this machine offers a convenient solution for beating the heat. Its dual-vessel design and 'Dual SlushAssist' technology make it an attractive option for those who want to experiment with different flavors and drink types.

However, the machine's size and price may deter some potential buyers. As the summer months approach, the Slushi Twist is poised to become a staple in many homes and small businesses, offering a refreshing solution to the sweltering heat. With its versatility and ease of use, it's likely that we'll see this machine become a popular choice for those looking to stay cool and creative this summer.