I am amazed at what our Ninja can do. I was skeptical until we got one. Hubby tosses a few frozen strawberries and a little milk and has smooth ice cream. Perfect slushies. I've never had a blender that has given me such a smooth texture with ice like this one does. We've had it for over a year and I still love it. When the time comes to get a new one, I'll want another Ninja.

I can't imagine a cheap blender lasting long when used for tough jobs like chopping ice - such models usually don't have a strong motor, which would be likely to burn out if used often. If you ever consider upgrading, I'd recommend the Vitamix - you might want to watch a demonstration video. Click the website link to watch.

Here is a link that might be useful: Vitamix demo video

At your price point with ice crushing requirements. Go for the Ninja.

Ninja blenders start at $99.

He is looking for 4 cup capacity for under $50 LOL.

The 2 cup magic bullet is $49.99. The slightly bigger nutribullet is $99.

The 4 cup or bigger blenders under $50 are not up to the task.

If you look really hard you can find slightly cheaper prices than those above but not much.

I heard that the Ninja Prep Professional received a really good review and it is only $60. So I went and bought one at Lowe's and we have been really happy with it. Makes snow with no problem.

This link at Amazon shows it for $53 with $12 shipping:
Ninja Master Prep Professional Blender, Chopper and Ice Crusher: More Power & 2 Times Faster

Works great but I don't know how long it will hold up. There is a 1 year manufacturer's warranty.

I use the Ninja Master Prep at work - the link to it on the Target site is attached. I use a Vitamix at home but the Ninja does a good job for a small price. I don't think it will last very long grinding ice but it is a good deal.

Here is a link that might be useful: Target Ninja

Vitamix 750

GWlolo - do you know where to get a Vitamix for $50??