Ninja Luxe Café Premier ES601 review: who should buy it?

Versatile coffee · Updated October 14, 2026

The ES601 makes espresso, drip coffee and cold brew. Its appeal is variety: one machine for a latte drinker and someone who prefers a longer black coffee.

Review method: Based on manufacturer specifications and our assessment of buyer fit. We have not tested this machine. Sources and the date checked are listed below.

At a glance

Manufacturer-listed features · US model
Model	Ninja Luxe Café Premier ES601
Drink styles	Espresso, drip coffee and cold brew
Grinder	Integrated grinder with 25 settings and built-in scale
Assistance	Barista Assist grind recommendations and brew monitoring
Milk	Four hands-free froth programs, including cold foam
Workflow	Semi-automatic; assisted tamper

Who should consider the ES601?

The Premier makes most sense when its different modes will get regular use. If you make lattes during the week and cold drinks at weekends, the range has a purpose. If you only drink filter coffee, much of the machine may go unused.

It also belongs on the shortlist for someone moving beyond capsules who wants guidance rather than an entirely manual espresso setup. Read our brewing-method guide if you are still deciding between espresso and filter coffee.

Strengths and trade-offs

Reasons to consider it

Several brewing styles in one countertop setup.
Grinding and weighing are integrated.
A guided route into portafilter coffee.

Reasons to look elsewhere

A portafilter still means an active coffee-making routine.
Extra modes have little value if you never use them.
Do not assume the Premier has every Pro-model feature.

The scale and grind guidance help with preparation, but this is still a semi-automatic machine. You handle the portafilter, empty the grounds and clean the milk equipment.

What to check before buying

Make room for the working area, not just the machine: your cup, milk jug, beans and a place to empty used grounds. Look at the cleaning instructions before choosing a milk-based routine; the most attractive drink menu is no help if the upkeep does not fit your morning.

Choose this exact ES601 version deliberately. Ninja uses different model numbers and regional specifications, so a review of a Pro or a UK model is not interchangeable with this one.

Alternatives for espresso or filter coffee

For an espresso-first premium setup, read the Breville Oracle Jet review. For black coffee and a carafe-centered routine, compare the Fellow Aiden. Choose between them by the drinks you make.

Questions before buying

Is the Premier fully automatic?

Ninja describes it as semi-automatic. The guided features should not be mistaken for a capsule-like, one-button process.

Should I buy it for drip coffee alone?

Our view: only if you also have a real use for its espresso or cold-drink functions. Otherwise compare a dedicated drip machine first.

Sources & next steps

Specifications checked October 14, 2026 against Ninja’s official ES601 product information. Check the regional model, current price, warranty and retailer return policy before buying. Features and availability can change.

Continue with our coffee maker buying guide, browse all reviews and comparisons or compare these four modern machines.

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