I chose this blender because I was looking for a more compact, and hopefully also quieter blender than what I had owned in the past, and I wanted to be able to make healthy shakes. I am not disappointed at all. The Ninja Master Prep comes with two container units - one that is 48 ounce size, and another 16 ounce one for chopping, etc.; two blade assemblies, two lids, and two splash guards, one motor unit, and the instruction guides. To use the blender, you place the blade assembly inside the mixing pitcher container, then add your ingredients, place the splash guard on, and place the motor unit on top. Holding the motor unit with your other hand, press the large front button part and it begins to blend. The food processing part works the same way, but I have not used that part yet. I will update this review when I do. The motor unit works with both containers, is light enough for me as an older woman to move it back and forth from one unit to another with ease (it's actually very light, but very powerful). This unit does a splendid job of blending well, and is much quieter than blenders I have used in the past. The only caution I have is that the blade assemblies are extremely sharp and must be handled with care, and kept out of reach of little ones. The cord on the motor unit is the standard, 3' small appliance length. One of my favorite aspects of this purchase is that the parts are all dishwasher safe, which saves me time hand washing. It is fast and easy to add your ingredients and get them blended, because the pieces go together easily. The blender will not work if you do not have it correctly assembled, but it if not difficult to use at all. I had no problems at all, even on the first use. Pros: * Multi-use unit - not only blends shakes, etc., but also doubles as a food processor, doing your chopping, etc. for you * More compact than larger, bulky blender * Quieter than other blenders I have owned * Very easy to use * Sleek, attractive design * 48 oz. and 16 oz. containers come with lids and double as storage containers * 48 oz. container has a handy pour spout for pouring your liquid and frozen concoctions * Easily blends frozen drinks, such as frozen smoothies * The push button blending motor can be used to pulse or held down for blending * I love that there aren't chunks of unblended food at the bottom of this when I make something, since the blending action is at the top! * The instructions are clear and easy to follow, and include a trouble-shooting section * The motor unit, pitcher container and splash guards have been designed to make them easy to grip, so it is very easy to keep the whole unit stable during blending Cons: * Blade assemblies are very sharp and must be handled, cleaned and stored with extra care. Keep out of reach of children! * Short cord If you are looking for an easy-to-afford blender that runs quieter than most and does a great job, this is a great buy. If you like appliances that serve multiple purposes, this is a great buy. If you want a blender with a more modern appearance, this one does. Overall, I would highly recommend this product. I did not originally plan to do a review on this item, but I was so delighted with its performance for this price, I wanted to share my views on it. I will update my review as necessary, as I continue using this product.
