Brew 
Thinking About the XL Pods & Grounds Coffee Maker?
This coffee maker review covers the Ninja XL Pods & Grounds Coffee Maker: how it makes your drinks, what you need alongside it, and the tradeoffs to consider before buying.
Check the exact XL version and what comes with it. Ninja’s similar-looking single-serve machines don’t all have the same tank or accessories.
Full Amazon Product Name: Ninja XL Single Serve Coffee Maker - Combo Machine, K-Cup Pods and Grounds
What’s It Like to Use the XL Pods & Grounds Coffee Maker Every Day?
Some mornings a pod is easiest. Other days you might want to use a bag of coffee you already enjoy. The Ninja XL Pods & Grounds Coffee Maker lets you do either. Fit the right brewing parts, add the coffee, choose your cup size, and let it brew.
The choice of coffee is the real benefit. Pods make a quick cup easy; grounds let you try different coffees and adjust how much you use. You’ll have a bit more cleanup when using grounds.
What About Lattes and Cappuccinos?
Prefer your coffee black? The XL Pods & Grounds Coffee Maker handles that on its own. If you love a foamy cappuccino or a creamy latte, you’ll need a separate milk frother, since this version doesn’t include one.
That means one extra step: brew your coffee, froth your milk, and pour them together. If you only make milk drinks occasionally, that may suit you just fine. If cappuccino is your everyday order, you might prefer a bundle with a frother or a machine that handles the milk for you.
What Else Will You Need?
The Ninja XL Pods & Grounds Coffee Maker doesn’t grind beans for you. Preground coffee is the easiest place to start, or you can use a separate grinder and try different beans. Match the grind to the brewing method rather than assuming finer is always better.
Before ordering, check which filter and serving container come with the machine. If you already have coffee tools you like, it’s worth checking that they suit the new brewer.
Since this brewer accepts both, our pods and ground coffee comparison can help you work out which you’ll use most.
What’s Good, and What Should You Think About?
What You Might Like
- Choose the ground coffee you already enjoy.
- Keep the daily coffee routine simple.
Before You Buy
- Check the exact XL version and what comes with it. Ninja’s similar-looking single-serve machines don’t all have the same tank or accessories.
- Add the cost of a grinder if you want to use whole beans.
How Easy Is the XL Pods & Grounds Coffee Maker to Clean?
Empty the used grounds, wash the basket and serving container as directed, and wipe up coffee splashes before they dry.
Descaling takes care of minerals inside the water path; washing the removable coffee parts is a different job. Use the products and cleaning steps recommended for this machine.
Leave room to refill and clean it. Before putting the Ninja XL Pods & Grounds Coffee Maker under a cabinet, check that you can open the lids and remove the tank or tray. A machine that fits on paper can still be awkward when you use it.
What Could You Buy Instead of the XL Pods & Grounds Coffee Maker?
Not quite sure this is the one? These machines give you a few other options to weigh up. Look at how they make coffee, what you do with the milk, and whether a grinder is included.
| Machine | How It Makes Coffee | How You Make the Milk | Built-In Grinder | Who It May Suit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ninja Pods & Grounds PB051ST | Pods & grounds | Milk frother | No | Your Coffee, Your Way |
| AIRMSEN 12-Cup Dual Coffee Maker | Single cups & a pot | No frother included | No | Coffee for One or Everyone |
| Cuisinart Grind & Brew DGB-400NAS | Grinds & brews coffee | No frother included | Yes | Grind Beans for Your Pot |
You can also browse all our coffee makers, or answer a few questions in Help Me Choose to get a smaller list that suits your drinks and budget.
A Few More Questions About the XL Pods & Grounds Coffee Maker
Does the Ninja XL Pods & Grounds Coffee Maker Grind Coffee Beans?
No, the XL Pods & Grounds Coffee Maker doesn’t include a grinder. Use suitable ground coffee, or add a separate grinder if you prefer whole beans.
Can You Make Lattes and Cappuccinos with the XL Pods & Grounds Coffee Maker?
You’ll need a separate milk frother with this version. Brew the coffee, prepare your milk, and combine them in the cup.
What Should You Know Before Buying the XL Pods & Grounds Coffee Maker?
Check the exact XL version and what comes with it. Ninja’s similar-looking single-serve machines don’t all have the same tank or accessories.
What Else Should You Compare with the Ninja XL Pods & Grounds Coffee Maker?
Start with the Ninja Pods & Grounds PB051ST and AIRMSEN 12-Cup Dual Coffee Maker. Compare the coffee format, milk steps, and whether you need a separate grinder. The links above take you to each full review.
Is the Ninja XL Pods & Grounds Coffee Maker Right for You?
The best choice comes down to what you drink and how much you want to do before that first sip. If the coffee and milk steps above sound comfortable, the XL Pods & Grounds Coffee Maker is worth comparing with the other machines on your list.
Compare the whole cost before you decide. Include the coffee you’ll keep buying and any grinder or milk accessories you need. Then check the current offer and what comes in the box.
Take a look at the Ninja XL Pods & Grounds Coffee Maker on Amazon ↗
