9 Best Food Processors

As a busy mom, I know how much a good food processor can transform meal prep and make family dinners so much easier. Over the years, I’ve tried everything from mini choppers for quick salsa to big machines that can handle dough for homemade pizza night, and I’ve learned that the right food processor can save time, reduce mess, and even inspire you to try new recipes.

This guide rounds up the best options from trusted brands like BLACK+DECKER, Cuisinart, Hamilton Beach, KitchenAid, LINKChef, and Ninja, with models to fit every kitchen and family size.

Top picks

Comparison table

01

Ninja Professional Plus Food Processor BN601

Ninja

Main highlights

• Capacity: 9 cups
• Power: 1000 watts
• Functions: Chop, slice, puree, dough
• Speeds: 3 plus pulse
• Dishwasher safe parts

Pros

• Strong 1000 watt motor
• Large 9 cup bowl
• Easy to clean and assemble
• Preset programs for common tasks

Cons

• Shredder disc may be less durable
• Takes up counter space
• Limited speed options

Size

This model has a medium to large footprint and weighs about 7.7 pounds. The 9 cup bowl is suitable for families or batch cooking. It may require dedicated counter or storage space.

Look

The processor features a modern silver finish with a compact yet sturdy design. It fits well with most kitchen styles and feels solidly built.

Function

It offers four main functions with preset programs for chopping, slicing, pureeing, and dough making. The motor is strong enough for tough ingredients. All removable parts are dishwasher safe for easy cleaning.

Summary

The Ninja BN601 is a reliable choice for home cooks who want power and convenience. It compares well to other food processors in its price range, offering more automation and a larger bowl. Some users report concerns about the durability of the shredder disc.

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02

Cuisinart Mini-Prep Plus 24-Ounce Food Processor

Cuisinart

Main highlights

• Capacity: 24 ounces
• Power: 250 watts
• Reversible stainless steel blade
• Dishwasher safe bowl and lid

Pros

• Compact and lightweight
• Easy to clean
• Simple push button controls

Cons

• Limited capacity
• Not suited for heavy duty processing
• Durability may vary

Size

This model is small and fits easily on most countertops or in cabinets. It weighs just over two pounds and stands under ten inches tall. The 24 ounce bowl is suitable for small batches.

Look

The brushed chrome finish gives it a modern appearance. Its plastic body keeps it lightweight. The design is simple and functional.

Function

It handles basic chopping and grinding with a reversible blade. The controls are straightforward with separate buttons for each function. Cleanup is easy with dishwasher safe parts.

Summary

This mini food processor is a good choice for quick prep jobs and small households. It is less versatile than larger or more powerful models but is easier to store and use. Other mini processors may offer similar features but this one stands out for its ease of cleaning and simple operation.

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03

Cuisinart 14-Cup Food Processor

Cuisinart

Main highlights

• Capacity: 14 cups
• Power: 720 watts
• Dimensions: 11 x 7.9 x 14.8 in
• Material: Stainless steel
• Dishwasher safe parts

Pros

• Large 14 cup bowl handles big recipes
• Powerful 720 watt motor
• Simple operation with few buttons
• Sturdy stainless steel build

Cons

• Only one speed setting
• Blades are not adjustable
• Takes up more counter space

Size

This model is larger than many food processors. It is designed for handling big batches and may not fit easily in smaller kitchens.

Look

The brushed stainless steel finish gives it a professional appearance. It looks solid and stable on the countertop.

Function

It chops, slices, shreds, purees, and kneads dough. The single speed and pulse control make it straightforward to use. Included discs and blades cover most prep needs.

Summary

The Cuisinart 14 cup processor is a good choice for those who cook in volume or want a durable machine. It is more powerful and spacious than entry level models but less compact. Compared to similar products, it stands out for its capacity and reliability.

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04

Hamilton Beach 10 Cup Food Processor

Hamilton Beach

Main highlights

• Capacity: 10 cups
• Power: 450 W
• Speeds: 2 plus pulse
• Dishwasher safe parts
• Stainless steel blades

Pros

• Large 10 cup bowl
• Built in bowl scraper
• Easy to clean and assemble
• Affordable price

Cons

• Mixed durability reports
• Only two speeds
• Plastic parts feel less sturdy

Size

This model has a compact footprint for a 10 cup processor. It fits well on most countertops and is not overly heavy to move or store.

Look

The black and stainless steel design is simple and neutral. It blends into most kitchen styles without drawing attention.

Function

It slices, shreds, chops, minces and purees. The built in bowl scraper helps reduce the need to stop and scrape the sides. Two speeds and a pulse option offer basic control. Compared to more expensive models, it has fewer attachments and lower power.

Summary

This food processor is a good choice for users who want a large capacity at a reasonable price. It is easier to clean than some competitors and offers useful features for everyday cooking. Those needing more power or long term durability may prefer a higher end model.

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05

KitchenAid 3.5 Cup Food Chopper

KitchenAid

Main highlights

• Capacity: 3.5 cups
• Speeds: 2 plus pulse
• Dishwasher safe parts
• Weight: 2.7 pounds

Pros

• Compact and lightweight
• Easy to clean
• Simple operation

Cons

• Small capacity
• Limited speed options
• Not suited for heavy-duty tasks

Size

This food chopper is compact and fits well on most countertops. It is lightweight and easy to move or store.

Look

The Empire Red finish adds a pop of color. The design is simple and modern with a clear bowl for visibility.

Function

It chops, mixes, and purees small batches. The two speeds and pulse control basic prep tasks. The drizzle basin helps with sauces and dressings.

Summary

Best for small kitchens or quick jobs. Compared to larger processors, it offers less capacity and fewer features but is easier to handle and clean.

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06

Ninja Professional XL Food Processor

Ninja

Main highlights

• Capacity: 12 cups
• Power: 1200 watts
• Speeds: 7 with 4 Auto-iQ presets
• Includes 2 blades and 2 discs
• Dishwasher safe

Pros

• Strong 1200 watt motor
• Large 12 cup bowl
• Multiple blades and discs
• Dishwasher safe parts

Cons

• Takes up counter space
• Some users report disc durability issues
• Higher price than entry level options

Size

This processor is larger than many standard models. It measures about 17.5 inches tall and weighs over 12 pounds. The 12 cup bowl suits family meals or batch cooking.

Look

The design is modern with a black and silver finish. It has a sturdy build and a wide feed chute for easier ingredient loading.

Function

It handles chopping, slicing, shredding, pureeing, and dough mixing. The strong motor and preset programs make it efficient for tough or large tasks. All main parts are dishwasher safe for easy cleanup.

Summary

Compared to basic food processors, this Ninja offers more power and capacity. It is well suited for frequent cooks or larger households. Some competitors are smaller or less expensive but may lack the same versatility.

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07

BLACK+DECKER 8-Cup Food Processor

BLACK+DECKER

Main highlights

• Capacity: 8 cups
• Power: 450 watts
• Speeds: 2 plus pulse
• Weight: 5.8 pounds

Pros

• Simple to assemble and use
• Large 8 cup bowl
• Dishwasher safe parts
• Affordable price

Cons

• Plastic bowl may be less durable
• Larger footprint than some compact models
• Limited speed options

Size

This model has a moderate size and fits most kitchen counters. It is larger than some compact processors but offers more bowl space.

Look

The design is simple with a black finish and clear bowl. It has a straightforward appearance that suits most kitchens.

Function

It chops, slices, shreds, and purees with a stainless steel blade and reversible disc. Two speeds and a pulse option cover most basic tasks. Assembly is easy and all removable parts are dishwasher safe.

Summary

This food processor is a good choice for basic food prep at a low price. It offers more capacity than some entry level competitors but may not be as durable as higher end models. Best for users who want value and simplicity.

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08

Hamilton Beach Stack & Snap 12 Cup Food Processor

Hamilton Beach

Main highlights

• Capacity: 12 cups
• Power: 450 W
• Speeds: 2
• Stainless steel blades
• Dishwasher safe parts

Pros

• Large 12 cup bowl
• Easy assembly and cleaning
• Affordable price

Cons

• Mixed durability reports
• Chopping performance varies
• Plastic parts may break

Size

This model has a compact footprint for its capacity. The 12 cup bowl suits families or batch cooking. It is lighter than some competitors but still stable on the counter.

Look

The design is functional with a black finish and clear bowl. It fits in with most kitchen styles but is not a standout for aesthetics.

Function

Assembly is straightforward with stack and snap parts. It handles slicing, shredding, and chopping well for most ingredients. Some users find the chopping less consistent than with premium brands.

Summary

This food processor is a good value for those who want a large capacity and easy use. Compared to pricier models, it may lack some durability and advanced features but covers the basics well.

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09

LINKChef 8 Cup Food Processor

LINKChef

Main highlights

• Capacity: 8 cups
• Power: 600 W
• Speeds: 2
• Bowl: Stainless steel
• Weight: 3.6 lbs

Pros

• Stainless steel bowl is durable
• Easy to use one button control
• Compact and lightweight

Cons

• Hand wash recommended
• Limited to two speeds
• Not ideal for large batches

Size

This model is compact and fits easily on most countertops. The 8 cup capacity is suitable for small families or meal prep for one or two people.

Look

The processor features a stainless steel bowl and a simple design. It has a modern appearance that blends into most kitchens.

Function

It offers two speeds controlled by pressing the button lightly or firmly. The 600 watt motor handles chopping, mincing, and mixing basic ingredients. Safety features include automatic shutoff if overloaded.

Summary

This food processor is a practical choice for users who want a straightforward appliance for everyday tasks. Compared to similar products, it stands out for its stainless steel bowl and ease of use, though it lacks advanced features found in higher priced models.

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Final verdict

For anyone looking to upgrade their kitchen prep, the Ninja Professional Plus Food Processor BN601 stands out as the best overall choice. It offers powerful performance and versatility, making it ideal for a wide range of tasks from chopping to dough mixing. If you need something smaller for quick jobs or limited counter space, the Cuisinart Mini-Prep Plus 24-Ounce Food Processor is the top pick in the compact segment. Both models deliver excellent results and are user friendly, so you can confidently choose the one that best fits your needs.

FAQs

What makes these food processors powerful for tough ingredients
Models like Ninja BN601 and NF701 feature motors up to 1200 watts, easily handling dense foods and large batches for smooth, consistent results.

Are these food processors easy to clean
Most reviewed models have dishwasher-safe removable parts and BPA-free bowls, making cleanup quick and hassle-free.

Can I use these food processors for dough
Yes, select models such as Ninja BN601 and NF701 include a dough blade for easy bread, pizza, or pastry dough mixing at home.

How much food can these processors handle at once
Capacities range from compact 3.5-cup choppers to large 14-cup bowls, with popular sizes like 9, 10, and 12 cups ideal for families or meal prep.

What safety features do these food processors offer
Many models have built-in safety locks and only operate when properly assembled, preventing accidents during use.

Are these food processors suitable for beginners
Yes, intuitive controls, easy assembly, and preset programs on models like Ninja and Hamilton Beach make them accessible for all skill levels.

What types of tasks can these food processors perform
They can chop, slice, shred, puree, and mix dough, making them versatile tools for preparing vegetables, fruits, sauces, dips, and more.