Coconut Cream

Take your smoothies for a tropical experience with this luxurious yogurt alternative. This delicious cream is packed with flavor courtesy of the coconut fruit. When shopping, be sure to buy full fat, coconut cream rather than coconut milk if you want the full flavor experience. 

Because it tastes a bit sweeter than standard yogurt, we recommend adding in a little bit of coconut cream at a time to your smoothie until you reach your desired consistency. Additionally, too much cream, flavor wise, will likely send you to colada land which is awesome if that's what you're going for, but maybe not so awesome in a carrot kale smoothie. 

1. Ninja Professional Countertop Blender BL660

Emphatically, the Ninja Professional Countertop Blender is our top choice as one of the best Ninja blenders. It provides just enough versatility for customization without being overly complicated. Let's discuss. 

First, it's the perfect hybrid machine combining everything we love about countertop blenders with everything we love about personal blenders. To break it down, this machine comes equipped with a 72 ounce blending container as well as two 16 ounce to go cups. Both container types have been designed to work seamlessly with the blender base. 

Second, the versatility offered during meal prep is bar none. The large pitcher is perfect for whipping up enough for friends, family, or even weekly meal prep. It comes marked with easy to read measurement indicators as well as an easy pour lid. Additionally, a small vented hole simplifies any mid-blend ingredient additions. 

Every household has picky eaters, but this is where the to go cups really come in handy. They are perfect for blending up a just-right size portion to accommodate likes and dislikes. Additionally, they are also great for blending up breakfast smoothies or shakes. 

Next, all this blending is made possible thanks to the powerful 1100 watt motor base which powers the total crushing blades nested inside the blending containers. The base also includes three speed settings, a single serve setting, and a pulse feature. 

Finally, this blender allows you to easily make frozen drinks, smoothies, dips, and sauces either for one or an entire group. Careful though, as it's not suitable for hot liquids, which is one of our only complaints about this powerful machine. 

2. Nutri Ninja Auto-iQ BL480D

When you need just the right portion, the Nutri Ninja Auto-iQ BL480D stands at the ready. This small, yet powerful personal blender is optimized for travel, making it effortless to live a healthy lifestyle even when you’re on the go. Its petite profile also makes it ideal if you already have a lot of kitchen appliances taking up space on the counter. 

Notably, don't let its small size trick you. This machine is power packed by the forceful 1000 watt motor, which is a lot of power for a blender this size. The base itself features a special Auto-iQ technology that makes personal blending even easier. In short, this blender will do all the work for you. 

On the base, choose from one of two preset programs with a simple touch. The presets use pulsing, blending, and pausing patterns that are timed. The result? A sinfully smooth sauce or perfectly blended smoothie. 

This Ninja includes two different cup sizes, a regular 24 ounce cup, and a smaller 18 ounce cup. It also comes with two sip and seal lids. The larger cup is perfect for smoothies, juices, and frozen drinks while the smaller cup is an excellent choice when making dips, sauces, or purees. 

3. Ninja Professional Plus Kitchen System with Auto-iQ BN801

Looking for a blender that can replace multiple kitchen appliances? If so, the Ninja Professional Plus Kitchen System BN801 is just what you need. This complete system includes a large blending pitcher, personal size to-go cups with lids, and a big processing bowl. There are also a variety of blades that work with the 1400 watt base. 

The 72 ounce pitcher is excellent for making large batches of frozen drinks for a party or smoothies for your entire family. Its no-spill lid allows you to pour directly from the pitcher with no drips or spills. After all, not a single drop of smoothie should ever be wasted.

If you need a drink for one, opt for one of the two 24 ounce single-serve cups. Load up your ingredients, attach the nutrient extractor blades and blend directly in the cup. Twist on the spout lid and take your drink on the road. 

Even more, the 64 ounce precision food processor bowl can handle fresh ingredients, doughs, and more. You can chop, grate, blitz, or knead thanks to two types of included blades: the chopping blade and the dough blade. 

The entire system works interchangeably with the powerful base which offers a selection of three speeds, a pulse mode, and 5 Auto-iQ presets. Making delicious recipes has never been easier, and neither has cleanup because everything is dishwasher safe.

4. Ninja Foodi Power Nutri Duo SS101

If you’re a smoothie lover you will enjoy the Ninja Foodi Power Nutri Duo SS101. This two-in-one system makes delicious drinks, like smoothies and green juice, as well as thick and creamy smoothie bowls. It does all this with single-serving cups and a compact base that can fit anywhere. 

For smoothies, two, 24 ounce cups attach directly to the extractor blade base. You can blend in the cup, twist on the flip and sip lid, and then get on with your busy day. The blades are efficient at crushing ice as well as powering through fibrous fruits and vegetables thus leaving you with a healthy smoothie of the perfect consistency. 

The 14 ounce Nutri bowl includes a power paddle that churns out creamy and sinfully smooth smoothie bowls. It is designed to achieve a great consistency with less liquid. This makes it ideal for not only smoothie bowls but also nut butters and ice creams.

The powerful 1200 watt base with SmartTORQUE lessens the need for stirring or shaking. Four Auto-iQ presets enable you to press one button and walk away. The timed blend cycles free up your hands for other tasks and make creating delicious smoothie bowls, spreads, and drinks amazingly easy.

5. Ninja Professional Plus Blender with Auto-iQ

When you are meal prepping for a large family, you need your blender to hold its own, making large capacity batches independently. In this regard, the Ninja Professional Plus Blender with Auto-iQ is absolutely the machine of choice for busy family kitchens.

The 72 ounce pitcher can effortlessly crank out large batches thanks to the total crushing blades effectively pulverizing whatever you place in the blending bowl. The unique, six-blade assembly can turn ice into snow faster than other blenders. Furthermore, the vortex they create moves everything downwards, reducing the need for stirring. 

1400 watts of peak power is certainly enough to blast through ice or break down fresh ingredients. The motor is tucked away nicely in a sleek and compact base while won't take up much room on your countertop.

All of that motor power is harnessed by three manual speed controls and three Auto-iQ presets. The presets provide just enough customization so you have some precision control while the blender is still user-friendly. A pulse button also gives you further control over your blend. 

Our only gripe about this machine is that it is quite similar to its sister models, the Ninja Professional Countertop Blender and the Ninja BN801 Professional Plus Kitchen System. If you are able to find a good sale on one of the other models, then the feature offerings of the Professional Plus are quite comparable. 

All in all, this blender has a modern design, a powerful motor, and some great convenience features all at an affordable price point.

6. Ninja Mega Kitchen System BL770

Another great kitchen system made by Ninja is the Ninja Mega Kitchen System BL770. A precursor to the Ninja Professional Plus Kitchen System, this machine has everything you need to be successful in the kitchen. The only difference is that it comes with slightly less bells and whistles in the form of Auto-iQ presets. 

A massive pitcher, single serve to go cups, and a food processing bowl allow you to prepare a variety of recipes in the kitchen. Better yet, all blending components attach to the powerful 1500 watt base. The narrow design of the base looks great on your counter and comes equipped with heavy-duty suction cups so it won't move even on the highest speed. 

Speaking of speeds, this blender has four different speed settings. The straightforward buttons put you in total control over the texture and consistency of your blends. This is the main difference between the Ninja Mega Kitchen System and its newer counterpart: there are no Auto-iQ functions. 

Making frozen drinks for friends and family is a breeze in the 72 ounce pitcher. The single-serving cups with to-go lids are ideal for nutritious juices and shakes. Both work with the total crushing blades to pulverize whatever you place in the blending bowl. 

Additionally, the eight cup food processing bowl is perfect for slicing, dicing, and chopping; making food prep effortless. It can even handle up to two pounds of dough, incorporating everything in just thirty seconds.

To sum it up, a few missing presets don't bother us at all thanks to the mega motor power and versatile blending containers.  

7. Ninja Foodi Power Pitcher SS201

The Ninja Foodi Power Pitcher SS201 is an impressive machine which boasts the ability to be four different kitchen appliances in one. It can perform multiple functions all within the same blending pitcher namely smoothie bowl maker, dough mixer, food processor, and crushing blender. 

Notably, the 72 ounce power pitcher is excellent for drinks, doughs, acai bowls, and general food prep. Its square sides are easy to scrape down and clearly marked measurements help you add just the right portions. When finished, the easy pour handle makes it easy to transfer your blend to serving or storage containers. 

For speed, the 1400 watt base with SmartTORQUE excels at managing thick and heavy loads so you won’t have to pause and stir your mixture. Anyone who has every had a watery smoothie bowl will appreciate the power found in this machine. 

For control, the variable speed dial gives you ultimate precision. If you don’t want to manually use your blender you can choose from one of the six Auto-iQ programs that include spreads, dough, smoothie bowls, chopping, and more. This system even includes a brush for easy cleaning, though you can just toss everything in the dishwasher if you would like.

In summary, when you just want use 'one and done', this machine ticks all the boxes. 

Ninja Blender Size

Ninja makes a variety of blenders; everything from standard countertop models to small to-go size models. When you are shopping for a Ninja blender consider the size of the blender including the base, and the capacity of the pitcher.

For example, do you want a compact blender like the Nutri Ninja Auto-iQ BL480D that is great for travel or keeping at the office? Or, do you prefer a larger blender like the Ninja Professional Plus Blender with Auto-iQ for your home that can handle a variety of kitchen tasks?

If you find yourself planning to use both large and small capacity containers, then go for a model like the Ninja Professional Countertop Blender that provides both. It's truly the best of both worlds. 

Ninja Blender Functions

Some Ninja blenders are traditional in function and are primarily used for making smoothies and frozen drinks. Think manual programs and variable speed dials, which require you to monitor the blender during the entire blending process. A good example of this would be the Ninja Professional Countertop Blender because blending consistency must be controlled manually. 

Take some time to think broadly about what you primarily use your blender for such as smoothies, doughs, dips, spreads, etc. From here, then you can decide what type of blender suits you best. 

Ninja Blender Power

In general, you want your blender to have at least 1000 watts of power. This is enough wattage to break down fibrous, fresh ingredients and blast through ice. However, if you are planning to consistently blend thick smoothie bowls or dough, then we recommend a higher wattage to ensure a thorough blend. 

Ninja Blender Blade Assemblies

Ninja is quite unique in that it manufactures blenders with the ability to work with different types of blades. Better yet, some blending systems include a variety of blade assemblies to give you maximum use-ability. 

When choosing your blender, take a moment to explore all of the different blade assemblies available with the machine that you are eyeing. Most notably, total kitchen systems, the Ninja Mega Kitchen System BL770 and the Ninja Professional Plus Kitchen System BN801 include almost every blade that Ninja makes.

Ninja Blender Budget

Of course, don't forget about your budget! Thankfully, most Ninja blenders tend to be mid-priced so you can hopefully find something that satisfies your blending needs and your pocketbook.

Conclusion

Ninja blenders are fantastic machines and a welcome addition to any kitchen. Our top pick is the Ninja Professional Countertop Blender BL660. Its combination of the extra large pitcher and two single serving cups make it perfect for making small portions or large batches for the entire family. The 1100 watt base and easy to operate controls further boost our affection for the Ninja. 

An easy runner up would be the Ninja Foodi Power Nutri Duo SS101 since making smoothies is kinda our thing. 

Ultimately, the best Ninja blender is the one that best suits your unique kitchen needs and we think all of the blenders on our list are great. If you've decided that Ninja isn't for you, we keep a running list of the best blenders on the market for your enjoyment. We'd love to hear in the comments which blender is joining your kitchen line-up. Happy blending!

Blender Registration

First, Vitamix does not require a blender to be registered in order to take advantage of the warranty. If you need to utilize a warranty claim, you can still call in to the Customer Service team and provide your serial number, date of purchase, and proof of purchase. Even better, if you purchased your machine at vitamix.com, a Vitamix Outlet Store or via the call center, then your blender is already registered for you! 

Like us, you may be asking why you should register your blender at all. Well, the benefits of registering your machine come down to the Vitamix Customer Service team being able to better serve you should you ever run into an issue. It also makes things easier for Vitamix to contact you about product updates or any voluntary recalls. 

Additionally, if you plan on passing your machine on to a friend or family member, the warranty will transfer and be honored according to the purchase date. Without a registered machine, this makes things a little more difficult on the new Vitamix recipient should they ever need to take advantage of the warranty. 

If you need to register your machine, Vitamix makes it easy to do online using a product registration form. 

3 Year Warranty

The three year warranty, while still generous is the shortest length of all warranties offered by Vitamix. It applies to external containers, including SELF-DETECT© models, some reconditioned models, and special attachments. It also covers the immersion blender and FoodCycler©. The most popular three year warranty products are as follows: 

5 Year Warranty

The five year warranty has you covered when you need just a little bit more out of your warranty time period. However, the coverage regarding any service or repairs remains exactly the same. 

If you own or are eyeing the Explorian Series E310, the TurboBlend Series, or most certified reconditioned models, then the five year warranty applies to you. We've called out a few of the hottest five year applicable warranty products below: 

7 Year Warranty

This is where things start to get serious. A seven year warranty is nearly unheard of in the blender world, but Vitamix comes through strong providing it for many of their legacy model machines. 

While legacy models sometimes move in and out of availability, the three consistently available models include the Vitamix 5200, the Professional Series 750, and the Vitamix 7500. 

10 Year Warranty

A standout warranty topping all other blender brands is the Vitamix ten year warranty. It's applicable primarily to the Ascent Series, which is one of the most impressive blender series that Vitamix has produced to date. 

Just like the shorter warranty time periods, the ten year warranty covers all parts, performance, labor, and two way shipping at no cost to you. Vitamix does, however, call out in the terms and conditions that any premature blade aging caused by excessive spice grinding may not be covered. 

Making Blender Ice Cream

Ice cream is a delicious, frozen dessert. There are many types of ingredients that can be combined to make ice cream, but standard ingredients typically include heavy cream or milk, fruit or flavoring, ice, and sweetener. 

To illustrate our blender ice cream method, we will be preparing a basic vanilla ice cream inspired by The Roasted Root. From here, you can add any toppings, mix-ins, or fruit that you like. The possibilities are endless! If you are craving something other than vanilla, feel free to branch out with a new recipe. We've got a full list of the best blender ice cream recipes for you to try!

To get started, take a few moments to gather your ice cream making supplies:

• Blender 
• Favorite recipe (choose any recipe you want)
• 1 (14oz) can sweetened condensed milk
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
• Freezer safe ice cream container
• Ice cream scoop
• Ice cream toppings

1. Instant Ace Nova Cooking Blender

Our top choice and clear favorite is the Instant Ace Nova. It's made by the same brand that produces the popular Instant Pot and absolutely doesn't disappoint. Although it can handle many tasks, this blender is practically designed with milk makers in mind. Let's discuss. 

First, you need good crushing power for blending nuts. The Instant Ace boasts 1000 watts of power to seamlessly crush nuts in seconds. The steel blades work together with the motor, spinning at up to 25,000 rotations per minute. In short, your nuts don't stand a chance. 

Second, for controls, the Instant Ace comes programed with ten customizable settings, three of which are dedicated to milk alternatives: nut/oat milk, rice milk, and soy milk. All you need to do is load up your ingredients and select the program you want. Additionally, a pulse button and three speeds give you precise control. 

Third, the Instant Ace comes with an all glass blending jar. Using glass to blend has many benefits, but namely it doesn't hold odors like plastic parts. This means that your next almond milk won't taste like your last garlic pesto. For capacity, the glass container can blend up to seven cups at once, which rivals many standard milk carton sizes. 

Finally, it comes with a strainer bag for making nut milk, tamper for nut butters, cleaning brush, and measuring cup. Clean up isn't the easiest because the blending container isn't dishwasher safe. However, it does feature a self cleaning program so this is a plus. All in all, if making nut milk is on your weekly task list, then this machine is the one for you. 

2. Vitamix 5200 Blender

The Vitamix 5200 Blender is a high-end powerhouse suitable for making large batches of nut milk for the entire family. The Vitamix brand is known for the ability to blend almost anything and crushing nuts into milk is no exception. 

For power, the Vitamix 5200 boasts 2 peak horsepower, which translates into around 1380 watts of power. The motor is designed with a self cooling feature which helps prevent overheating or burnout. Anyone who has ever been interrupted mid-blend by the smell of melting plastic will appreciate this feature. 

Control wise, the 5200 comes equipped with a variable speed dial and a hi/low button for when you really want to add some extra power to your blend. We find the variable speed dial particularly useful for making nut milk due to the fact that starting at a low speed and gradually increasing blade speed helps prevent any liquid from being tossed up the sides of the jar.  

3. Blendtec Total Classic Original Blender

If you are looking for an all-around, great sous chef and nut milk blender, then the Blendtec Total Classic Original Blender is the machine for you. Engineered and assembled in the USA, the Blendtec is known for durability, quality, and uniqueness. 

The Blendtec's hallmark is the dull blade assembly. Now, you may be wondering how a machine with a dull blade can chop nuts effectively. We were too and were surprised by what we found. Notably, the wing shaped, dull blade is designed, along with the 1560 watt motor, to work as a team with the blending container to create a suction-like vortex in the jar. 

4. NutriBullet Pro

If you are making a glass or two of nut milk at a time, then the NutriBullet Pro may be just the ticket. This personal blender is ideal for small families, solo drinkers, or occasional small batch making. 

It comes equipped with tons of accessories, including to go cups and lids, for making drinking on the go a breeze. Additionally, the extra cups are great for sipping a morning smoothie while a separate cup gets to work crushing up nuts. 

This mini machine, although small, packs a powerful punch. It boasts 900 watts of motor power, which is impressive considering the size of the blending base. The base itself is also sold in eleven different colors, although we are fond of the champagne hue. 

Furthermore, it's also easy to operate. All you have to do is load up your ingredients, twist on the extractor blade lid assembly, and pop it in the blending base. From here, use your muscles to press down on the top of blending cup until you are satisfied with your blend. 

All of the parts are crafted from BPA-free plastic and are dishwasher safe. This blender is likely not suitable if you are making nut milk on the regular, but it's perfect for when you just need to satisfy a craving or accommodate a dietary preference.

5. Vitamix A2500 Ascent Series Blender

However, this machine really shines thanks to a unique technology called SELF-DETECT©. In short, the blending base knows which container you’ve chosen and adjusts the blending time and force accordingly. This means you can make nut milk batches using any SELF-DETECT© bowl, cup, or blending container. 

The entire blender package comes with the blender base, a plastic pitcher, tamper, and cookbook. To our disappointment, none of the small SELF-DETECT© blending accessories come with the main package, which makes the price point of the blender hurt even more. 

To sum it up, the Vitamix A2500 is great for making nut milk. However, the extravagant price point means that you will likely want to use it for much more than just nut milks. The good news is, whatever you want to blend, the Vitamix is powerful and durable enough to handle it. 

Blender Power for Making Nut Milk

Nut milk should be smooth and creamy. After all, if it isn't, then you basically just have watery nut butter. In order to achieve that creamy goodness, the nuts need to be crushed into a near liquid blend. Furthermore, the nuts will also need to be crushed small enough to be easily strainable. 

When it comes to crushing nuts, you need serious blender power as a weak blender just won't cut it. Not only will you be standing in the kitchen for ages waiting on crushed nuts, but you may also be subject to a burned out motor. For best results, look for a machine that has at least 900 watts of power.

Notably, blenders are one of those things where you actually do get what you pay for, so if you've got the budget to get a higher powered machine like the Blendtec Total Classic Original Blender then we definitely recommend it. 

Nut Milk Blender Accessories

Making nut milk requires some important accessories like storage containers, strainer bags, tampers, and cleaning brushes. Some blenders are sold with these additional accessories, while others only come with the bare minimum. 

Nut Milk Blender Size

One frequently overlooked factor during blender shopping is the size of the actual machine, including all accessories. If you are working in a small kitchen with limited counter space, then a gargantuan blender will not be very pleasant due to the fact that you will always have to move it around to free up prep space. 

Take some time to think about where you will store your future blender. Will you keep it out on the countertop 24/7 or will you be storing it away in a nearby cabinet? For example, a blender like the Vitamix 5200 Blender weighs almost eleven pounds. This can be a back breaker when lifting out of a lower cabinet. 

On the flip side, if you've got tons of space and typically use your blender everyday, then a large model won't be so much of a hassle. Either way, consider all of your storage options and day to day routine before your making your choice. 

Blending Container Capacity for Making Nut Milk

If you find yourself making large nut milk batches, then a blender with a large capacity container will likely be best. Both the Instant Ace Nova and the Vitamix 5200 Blender are great large capacity choices since they can hold almost half a gallon of liquid in their respective containers. 

On the other hand, if you aren't sure how frequently you will be making nut milk or if you need to make several different types of small batch nut milk, then a small capacity blending container would be a great fit. A good example of this would be the NutriBullet Pro due to the fact that it comes with two, 32 ounce cups. 

Conclusion

When it's time to make nut milk, we think that the Instant Ace Nova is best for the task due to its nut milk programs and the fact that it's sold with special accessories. Its affordable price point doesn't hurt either! 

If you're ready to splurge, we also love the Vitamix A2500 Ascent Series because of its high tech abilities and customizable containers. It's also great for making traditional blender treats beyond nut milk. 

In summary, the best blender for nut milk is the one that suits your unique needs. We can't wait to hear which model works best for you as well as some of your favorite ways to enjoy nut milk. Drop us a comment and let us know! Happy blending! 

History of Blenders

The idea of the blender started with a man named Stephen Poplawski. He wanted to create a machine that made it easier to make milkshakes and malts. The device he came up with ended up being a container connected to a motor with a spinning blade at its base, and he later filed for a patent for it in 1922. 

Not too long after, Fred Osius came up with his own idea of this machine got a patent for it in 1938. He needed funding for his project, so he partnered with Fred Waring, and together they worked to improve Osius's model. Eventually, the partnership fizzled, and the two went separate ways, with Waring coming up with his own design. 

With this, the Miracle Mixer blender was created in 1937 by Waring, and in 1938 he changed the name to the Waring Blendor. The new and perfected machine was a success and paved the way for the blenders that we all love today. 

Blender Designs

Since its invention, there have been many special designs and new ideas that have become popular outside of the standard blender. Most of these designs have been created to make blends smoother, faster, and quieter.

Bullet Blenders 

The most impressive special design is perhaps the bullet blender models. Bullet blenders are blenders that replace the traditional blending base and container with more compact parts. A small blending base and cup are typically included in these unique blender bundles. 

Blender Attachments

Many blenders are now sold as a bundle with the option to add on special attachments and accessories. While brands offer different things, many provide as many options as possible in order be a one-stop-shop. In other words, increased productivity in the kitchen saves time and boosts positivity around healthy lifestyles.

To start, many blenders now come with at least one additional blending cup. The added container is typically a size smaller and gives the option to make a single serving blend rather than larger amounts. 

Next, some brands also include grinders and food processor attachments. Grinders are great for things like crushing pepper or coffee beans while food processors are great for hummus and nut butter. 

Finally, special blending jars round out the attachment offerings. These jars are often made as add ons to the main blender and specialize in things dry ingredients and dough. Both Vitamix and Blendtec are known for their custom jar offerings. 

Multi Purpose Blenders

Some blenders do not need any special attachments because they can do it all in a single jar. These types of blenders are perfect for busy families or for those who hate washing up multiple pots and pans. 

Grinding Coffee Beans in a Vitamix

All Vitamix models are built to last with durable parts and a long warranty backing up this promise. Supercharged motors work effortlessly with razor sharp blades to get the blending job done when it comes to smoothies, shakes, sauces, and more. Therefore, it's time to put your machine to work serving double duty as a coffee grinder. 

Before we begin, take a moment to collect the necessary items for the task:

• Vitamix blender
• Whole bean coffee
• Coffee storage container

1. Measure the beans

Using a measuring spoon or cup, scoop the amount of whole beans into the portion size that satisfies you. For best results, we recommend only grinding enough for your daily coffee portion. 

For reference, if you are planning to brew your coffee using a one liter french press, we recommend about three heaping tablespoons of whole beans for a strong flavor. 

2. Prepare the Vitamix

1. Vitamix E310 Explorian Blender

Our top choice, the Vitamix E310 Explorian Blender, the ultimate in precision control. This powerful blender operates off a cool-running motor and a metal drive system which provide power and speed while being incredibly durable. If you need to churn out daily smoothies without a hitch, then this is the machine for you. 

The hardened stainless steel blades can chop through anything you place in the pitcher, even frozen fruits and ice cubes. They are controlled by a variable ten-speed control dial which gives you complete control over the texture of your blend. You can turn it up to blitz chia seeds or turn it down for a chunkier fruit smoothie. 

The pulse feature helps to thoroughly mix your blend without having to open the lid and stir the mixture. Or, you can use it to layer your blend, placing a coarse chop over a smooth puree. Smoothie bowls, anyone? 

Should you need to stir a stubborn blend the vented lid has an opening perfectly designed for the included tamper. It is also great for adding additional ingredients in case you decide to add a last minute shot of rum to a tropical afternoon smoothie. The 48 ounce container is just the right size to make a personal smoothie or a batch for the family. And the no-spill spout allows you to effortlessly serve them up.

2. Blendtec Total Classic Original Blender

If you are looking for a more hands-free option, consider the Blendtec Total Classic Original Blender. This blender has a timer feature with its pre-programmed settings. For example, when you select the smoothie program, the blender timer will begin counting down while mixing up your ingredients. This gives you the opportunity to complete other kitchen tasks during your busy morning without having to babysit your blender. 

The smoothie button isn’t its only preset cycle though, there are six, including a hot soup setting. It uses blade friction heating to warm your mixture while it blends it, resulting in a hot creamy soup. On the negative side, don't accidentally press the wrong button because a hot smoothie doesn't sound too appetizing.  

3. Nutri Ninja Auto-iQ BL480D

Are you livin' that solo life? Or maybe you are the only one in your household drinking smoothies on the daily? The Nutri Ninja Auto-iQ BL480D is a personal-sized blender that is ideal for making smoothies on-the-go or that are ready to travel. Two included flip-top travel lids work with either the 24 ounce cup or the smaller 18 ounce cup. 

Since you can blend directly in the cup, there is little to no cleanup. Simply add your ingredients, screw on the pro extractor blades, and then pop the cup into the 1000 watt base. The stacked design of the blades means frozen items stand no chance of getting trapped on either side but instead are pulled into the base and efficiently broken down. 

For controls, you can use the pulse button or take advantage of one of the two Auto-iQ presets. These presets use timed patterns of pulsing, blending, and pausing to achieve the perfect texture effectively freeing you to take care of other kitchen tasks. This potent but petite little blender is an awesome way to liquefy greens, blitz seeds, and break down frozen ingredients to make delicious smoothies for one.

4. NutriBullet Blender Combo

If you want the versatility of a full-sized blender and a personal sized one, consider the NutriBullet Blender Combo. This blender includes a large capacity 64 ounce pitcher and two smaller sized to-go cups, one at 32 and the other at 24 ounces respectively. This machine truly offers the best of both worlds. 

The large pitcher has easy to read measurements and a vented lid cap. This makes adding additional ingredients like flaxseed, chia seeds, or nut butters a cinch. When pouring out your creation, the easy-pour spout equals zero drips! The to-go cups and their travel lids are just as painless to use as you can blend directly in the cup with the easy-twist extractor blade. 

No matter what quantity of smoothie you're making, you control the consistency of the 1200 watt motor. The blender base has an extract button, a pulse button, and three different speeds. You can effortlessly achieve the perfect consistency smoothie whether it be thick and icy or smooth and creamy. Everything is dishwasher safe so when you’re done cleanup is a breeze!

5. Vitamix A2500 Ascent Series Smart Blender

Searching for a smart blender? The Vitamix A2500 Ascent Series Smart Blender has got you covered. It has a variety of features that offer walk-away convenience. Smoothie making doesn’t get any easier than this with this beauty by your side in the kitchen. Let's chat about it.

First, for capacity, the large 64 ounce container is perfect for big batches, and its low profile design makes it easy to store or use on your counter. The smart base uses clever sensor technology to sense the container load and then adjusts blend settings and speed. It even works with any SELF-DETECT© containers like bowls and cups. 

6. Oster Blender Pro 1200

The Oster Blender Pro 1200 is a wonderful eco-friendly glass option for those who occasionally want a smoothie. Emphatically, it's also affordable. Yet despite its price point, it has a lot to offer in the way of settings and components. 

This blending system comes with large pitcher and a to-go cup. The 6 cup Boroclass jar is shock resistant and less likely to retain flavors and odors than plastic. In short, your morning strawberry smoothie will be free from last night's garlic hummus. The included 24 ounce smoothie cup equipped with a to-go lid fits right in the stylish brushed nickel base so you can blend directly in the cup. 

For force, 1200 watts of power are more than enough to blast through ice and tear through frozen fruits. Larger sized blades and dual blade direction technology ensure consistently smooth blends for smoothies, soups, sauces, and even baby food purees.

For controls, you have a choice of seven speeds or three pre-programmed settings: green/frozen smoothies, food chop/salsa, and milkshakes. With these controls, you can be hands-on with your blends, tailoring them to your liking or use one of the settings and let the blender do the work for you.

All in all, we love this glass option since it's so rare to find a quality glass blender these days. Our only gripe is the short power cord (it's 16 inches) and the lack of variable speed control. Other than this, the Oster Pro 1200 is a great smoothie making machine. 

7. Cleanblend Commercial Blender

It may not be as attractive as other blenders, but the Cleanblend Commercial Blender packs a professional grade punch. It has 1800 watts of power that are controlled by a variable speed dial, effectively rivaling the Vitamix brand.

With its colossally powered motor, you can easily make smoothies, chunky salsas, creamy nut butter, and even hot soups. Furthermore, this blender boasts that it replaces up to nine appliances thanks to its versatility and ability to dice, chop, liquefy, heat, and more. 

The lid to the 64 ounce container contains a vented space where you can easily insert a tamper to help process difficult blends, though you likely won’t have that problem. The 8 blade system effortlessly tears through whatever you place inside the pitcher. 

Despite being incredibly powerful, the strong base and sealed ball bearings make this blender slightly less noisy than other commercial-grade models. However, since it's a blender, it is still noisy. 

To sum it up, this machine is a great choice if you want the Vitamix power but not the Vitamix price tag. 

The Hamilton Beach Power Elite Blender is a fast and functional model that is excellent for those with a small budget and a small kitchen. Its compact size, featuring a 40 ounce glass pitcher and a low profile base is easy to store or keep on your countertop.

Surprisingly sturdy considering its affordability, the 700 watt motor provides sufficient power to the durable blades for chopping, pureeing, grinding, and grating. Cyclonic wave action efficiently pulls everything down towards the blades, no stirring required.

For blending control, twelve different functions take the guesswork out of making perfect blends. The pulse button gives you an extra boost so you can achieve your ideal consistency. We find this button particularly useful when making acai bowls or topping off a smoothie with some crushed pecans. 

The unique pour spout lid doesn’t drip or spill when transferring your mixture. After all, you worked hard to make your smoothie and none of it should be wasted. When you're finished blending, everything is dishwasher safe, including the blades which remove for deeper cleaning.

If you are feeding a large household, the Ninja Professional Countertop Blender is a large capacity, home-use model with commercial-grade power. The 1100 watt base is easy to operate and provides enough power for the blender to tear through whatever you put in the pitcher. 

The Ninja definitely lives up to its stealth and effective name thanks to the six blade total crushing assembly. It's strong and durable and turns ice into snow in just seconds. It does the same for frozen fruit, which results in deliciously smooth smoothies and shakes.

Smoothie Blender Power

Any of the blenders on our list can whip up a great smoothie. Yet, certain blenders are more powerful than others. When it comes down to it, blender power can make or break your daily blender experience. Anyone who has ever stood shaking and rocking a weak blender can relate. 

Regarding blender power, it helps to to take a moment to think through the types of smoothies that you consistently like to enjoy. You may even want to make a list of common smoothie ingredients that you find yourself using often. 

If you are someone who likes to add frozen fruit, ice, or thick nut butters to your smoothies, then you will need some significant power in order to get a smooth consistency. Ideally, a blender with 1000 watts of power or more, like the Nutri Ninja Auto-iQ BL480D is recommended to effectively blend ice into snow. 

Cleaning a Smoothie Blender

In order to keep your blender functioning at peak performance, we suggest implementing a cleaning routine after each smoothie. Now, before you despair about constant cleaning, it's important to know that some blenders make this task ridiculously easy. 

For example, any Vitamix blender can clean itself with a drop of soap and some warm water. The powerful motor found in the Vitamix creates a dishwasher vortex before your eyes. Admittedly, you can do this trick with any blender, but Vitamix does it best. 

Alternatively, some blenders like the Hamilton Beach Power Elite Blender are able to be completely disassembled, including the blades and tossed in the dishwasher. Dishwasher safe models are ideal, especially if you hate washing up. 

Notably, some models have dishwasher safe parts or are only partially able to deep cleaned. The NutriBullet Blender Combo is one such machine in that everything is dishwasher safe, yet the blades aren't removable. If the concept of this creeps you out a little, then a machine without removable blades may not be the best choice.  

Smoothie Blender Accessories

When shopping for your blender, take note of any special accessories that are available for purchase. Using add on blender accessories is a great way to expand the functionality of your machine while often sparing you the cost of purchasing another appliance. 

Blender Blades for Smoothies

When you need a smoothie, you need it now. Blender blades are the star mechanism enabling all the smoothie goodness to happen. Without them, a blender would be rendered useless. 

When shopping for your new smoothie maker, consider what type of blade would suit you best. The market has many options, from dull to razor sharp, and from wing shaped to total crushing. Similar to blender power, the type of blender blade that suits you best really depends on the variety of ingredients that you intend to blend.  

For example, if you know that you are an ice loving smoothie fanatic, then a machine with total crushing blades like the Ninja Professional Countertop Blender would be a great choice. Additionally, hardened stainless steel blades like those found in any Vitamix can also crush ice and frozen fruit efficiently. 

Opposite, if you mostly want to enjoy protein shakes or smoothies with soft, fresh fruit then just about any blade will cut it, pun intended.  

Conclusion

Each blender on our list is capable of making an awesome smoothie. However, if you want it done quickly and efficiently every time, we recommend the Vitamix E310 Explorian Blender. This blender might be a bit of an investment, but it is extremely versatile and you will find many uses for it in your kitchen from crushing ice to pulverizing frozen fruit.

If you want to try out a dull blender blade, we also recommend the Blendtec Total Classic Original Blender for its uniqueness, programmed settings, and all around high quality construction.

Drop a comment below with some of your favorite smoothie recipes as well as tips and tricks for getting just the right consistency. We also can't wait to hear which blender is right for you. Happy blending! 

1. Vitamix 5200

If you are new to the world of blenders, the Vitamix 5200 is a great place to start. This machine has been around for years, fulfilling smoothie dreams for even the most inexperienced chef. In fact, it's so classic that Vitamix considers it a part of their legacy series. 

For power, this machine boasts 2 peak horsepower, which is about the equivalent of 1380 watts. With power like that it can blend almost anything you desire including ice, frozen fruit, nuts, seeds, and leafy greens. 

But what is power without control? The 5200 comes with a variable speed dial ranging in power speeds from 1 to 10. A high/low switch located next to the dial gives you further control over the texture of your blends. 

Now, with understanding around speed and power, you can easily use your new knowledge whip up a large batch of soup or sauce for the entire family in the blending jar. Considered large capacity, the durable blending jar can safely hold 64 ounces of ingredients. If things get out of control, the motor base features a radial cooling fan and thermal protection system to avoid overheating. 

When it's time to clean up, the Vitamix can easily clean itself with some hot water and a drop of soap. In less than thirty seconds, your Vitamix is squeaky clean and ready for your next blend. 

2. Vitamix E310 Explorian

Dying to own a Vitamix, but don't love the hefty price tag? The Vitamix E310 Explorian Blender may be just the ticket for you. In short, it's a high performance machine with a lower price tag. However, a lower price point doesn't mean lower quality. Let's talk about it. 

First, for power, the Explorian operates and offers the same speed as its other Vitamix siblings. Total crushing power enables you to blend, crush, chop, and otherwise pulverize essentially any ingredient you can imagine. It can even make hot soup in under six minutes using friction created from the stainless steel blades. 

Second, for controls, the stylish blender base houses similar controls found on other Vitamix models including a variable speed dial, pulse button, and on/off switch. For fun, the base is sold in three bold colors: black, slate, and red. After all, no one ever said that budget blending had to be boring. 

Third, if you want to expand the functionality of the Explorian, it's easily done by adding additional accessories. You can purchase a blending cup adapter in order to create a single serve smoothie for yourself or a friend. 

Finally, its default, low profile, 48 ounce container allows you to make batches that are just-right sizes. Plus, it fits easily underneath most cabinets which is a plus since you will probably never want to put it away!

3. Vitamix Immersion Blender

The Vitamix Immersion Blender is something that Vitamix brand lovers have been anticipating for a long time. Now, the wait is over because Vitamix has produced one of the best hand blenders on the market. If you're dying to add a little puree consistency to a curry, stew, or soup but don't want to bother with lugging out a huge countertop blender, then this is the model for you. 

Hand blenders offer many benefits when it comes to boosting efficiency in the kitchen and the Vitamix hand blender does not disappoint. Forged from stainless steel and built to last in true Vitamix fashion, this hand blender can handle almost anything at any temperature. 

It comes equipped with a 625 watt motor, five speeds, an LED light display, and an ergonomic grip design. Additionally, it also comes fitted with a blade guard to prevent scratching up your pots and pans or shattering your mason jars.

Although this blender won't be a superstar when it comes to ice or hard frozen fruit, it can certainly whip up smoothies, shakes and baby food in a flash. When it's time to clean up, just run the blender for a few seconds in a cup of hot, soapy water. Rinse with clean water and you are done! 

4. Vitamix A2500 Ascent Series

When you need a blender with brains, the Vitamix A2500 Ascent Series is there to get the job done. This magical machine has built in wireless connectivity and also features a technology called SELF-DETECT© which automatically adjusts blending speeds according to the container that you are using. 

Notably, for power, the A2500 boasts 2.2 peak horsepower, which translates to about 1440 watts of power. All of that energy is made possible by a high performance motor built for durability. In short, that is some serious smoothie making power. 

5. Vitamix Pro Series 750

The Vitamix Pro Series 750 is a blender that means business. This machine shows up for work before everyone else and leaves after everyone else is gone. Bottom line, it's a professional. 

Vitamix has a mantra, "You don't need more horses; you need better trained ones." For instance, when compared with less expensive competitor models, you can actually find more power wattage out there on the market. In fact, the Cleanblend blender boasts 1800, while the Vitamix 750 is equipped with roughly 1440 watts.

And yet, the motor found in the Vitamix 750 is crafted from high performance materials and features a cool running motor to prevent burnout. In short, you can make smoothies and margaritas for the entire party without this machine ever showing any sign of slowing down. 

When it's time to cook, the Pro Series 750 features five unique presets alongside its variable speed dial. Using the dial, you can select from frozen desserts, soup, smoothies, purees, or the self cleaning mode. From here, just walk away and let the blender get to work while you move on to other kitchen tasks. Talk about the ultimate sous chef!

With classic features, consistent quality, and a price tag to match, the Vitamix Pro Series 750 is great for any experienced chef who is ready to take things to the next level. 

6. Vitamix A3500 Ascent Series

If the former A2500 was brainy like a college kid, then the Vitamix A3500 Ascent Series is the professor. This model is a step up in the Ascent smart blender series and is truly impressive with all that it can do. In short, if you like bells and whistles, then this is the machine for you. 

It has all of the same features found in the Ascent series, including built in wireless connectivity and the ability to sense any size SELF-DETECT© container. However, where the A3500 really shines is with its sleek touch screen and programmable timer. Let's discuss. 

First, the entire face of the blending base is filled with various buttons that are controlled with a touch of your finger. This includes a touch start/stop, pulse, timer, and five program settings. The programs include hot soups, dips and spreads, smoothies, frozen desserts, and self cleaning, all of which adjust automatically to the container that you have chosen.

You can also take advantage of the variable speed dial if you still want to do things manually. The dial can be adjusted from low to high and will still retain its ability to self-detect your specific container. 

Next, the timer is programmable. It can easily be configured to lock in the settings and timing of your favorite recipes for a truly customizable blending experience. Additionally, the timer serves to count down the remaining time left on any preset as well as count up to show how long you have been blending. It also serves to stop the blender when the time you've entered is reached. 

Finally, the A3500 pairs perfectly the Vitamix Perfect Blend app installed on your smart phone or tablet. Coupled with the app and digital touch screen, the A3500 is the blender of the future. 

7. Vitamix 36019 Quiet One

If you've been dreaming of opening up your own cafe or smoothie shop, then the Vitamix Quiet One is the machine for you. This gentle monster is the most powerful blender on our list, yet, likely the quietest. It's been designed to spare the ears of staff and customers alike. 

For specs, it's got everything but the kitchen sink, which is helpful because on busy days, you need all hands on deck! It features six program buttons, thirty four optimized programs, and ninety three variable speeds. With settings like this, you can standardize operations across multiple cafe locations and dominate the market. 

The blending container can hold 48 ounces of ingredients and is cleared marked with measurement markings to help improve blend accuracy. Once the blending container is loaded up, just pop it on the base and lower the plastic shield. The shield, partnered with a specially designed motor housing work together to keep things on the quieter side. 

To sum it up, whether you are scaling your operations or just want to invest in a commercial machine for home use, the Quiet One would make a great companion. The only drawback is its crazy price tag which may have you screaming louder than the blender itself. 

Vitamix Size

The size of the Vitamix, meaning how heavy, bulky, or tall big it is, can impact your life in a few ways. In general, Vitamix machines are typically heavier than most of their competitors. This is due, in part, to the fact that Vitamix uses better materials like stainless steel and other metals to craft their machines. 

When considering which Vitamix to buy, take some time to consider how and where you will store your blender. Also consider any mobility challenges that may be preset in your household as some models are extremely heavy and can be difficult to lift from cabinets. 

Notably, larger blenders like the Vitamix A3500 Ascent Series are heavier and can be harder to store, either in a cupboard or on your counter. However, bigger blenders usually have higher capacities and can be great for those who typically use their blenders to make batches. 

Alternatively, if you only want to make smoothies or single-servings, you may prefer a more compact blender like the Vitamix Immersion Blender; making it easier to handle and to keep in your kitchen. 

Vitamix Blending Containers

When it comes to blending containers, Vitamix, for years, stuck to just a few standard sizes of 64 ounce and 32 ounce dry grains containers, respectively. However, with the release of the Explorian and Ascent Series, the availability and variety of container sizes more than doubled. 

When it comes time to purchase your machine, be sure to consider all the ways that you foresee using your blender in order to make the best decision. For example, if you are someone who loves small smoothie bowls, back porch single serve margaritas, and large batches of soup, then a model like the Vitamix A2500 Ascent Series or the Vitamix A3500 Ascent Series would be great for you thanks to the SELF-DETECT© line of accessories. 

Vitamix Blender Power

Vitamix blenders are some of the most powerful machines on the market. In fact, the pro series machines, like the Vitamix Pro Series 750 in addition to the commercial Vitamix Quiet One are widely used in restaurants and smoothie shops around the world. 

When it comes time to make your purchase, consider what type of power you may need in your machine. If you know that all you want to blend is the occasional milkshake or smoothie, then perhaps you can get by with the lower powered Vitamix Immersion Blender. 

However, if you know that power is the name of the game for you, then we definitely suggest going for a traditional countertop model. Every model on our list is powerful enough to blend pretty much anything you can imagine. 

Conclusion

Bottom line, the best Vitamix blender is the one that suits your needs. We favor the Vitamix A2500 Ascent Series because it's just as powerful, yet more affordable than some other models. Additionally, it works with all SELF-DETECT© containers effectively leveling up its functionality.

An easy runner up is the Vitamix E310 Explorian Blender because it's great for beginners and slightly more budget friendly. 

Drop us a comment and let us know the first thing that you are going to make with your new Vitamix. If you already have a Vitamix, then let us know your latest blended creation. Happy blending! 

1. NutriBullet

The NutriBullet is a personal-sized blender that is optimized for travel. The sturdy but light 24 ounce cup clicks easily into the portable 600 watt base. Because you can blend right in the cup the only lid you have to worry about bringing is the to-go flip lid or the lip ring, no extra components are required. 

Though the base is compact, it houses a powerful motor that helps the extractor blades effortlessly breaks down ingredients. It can whip up a delicious Shakeology drink quickly and efficiently with its cyclonic action; even if you feel like adding ice or fibrous veggies.

Fuss-free cleaning is yet another feature that makes this blender so great for travel. You need only rinse the cups with soap and water and then put them in the dishwasher. Take this blender with you to the gym, the office, or on vacation for hassle-free Shakeology on the go!

2. Nutri Ninja Pro Compact Personal Blender

Still want to keep things personal blender sized, but need a little more power? The Nutri Ninja Pro Compact Personal Blender fits the bill. As the name suggests, this is another travel optimized blender. Although it may be small, it really packs a punch thanks to the 900 watt motor.

The powerhouse is contained in a sleek black and silver-finished case, that won’t look out of place on your countertop. In addition to the blending base, this blender includes both an 18 ounce and 24 ounce to-go cup along with travel-friendly spout lids. Bottom line, you can blend your shake and be out the door in just a few minutes. 

The sturdy nutrient extraction blades can effortlessly handle Shakeology and other powders. But they can do more too, like tearing through ice, seeds, fruits, and vegetables. The manual pulse feature enables you to achieve a smooth texture with even the most stubborn ingredients.

Finally, everything is dishwasher safe and BPA-free, making it simple to keep on living your healthy lifestyle.

3. Oster My Blend

The Oster My Blend has a sporty design that will fit seamlessly into your healthy lifestyle. The trendy athletic-looking sport bottle can hold up to 20 ounces and is designed to blend and go, just pop on the flip-top. Additionally, the lid has another great feature, a carry hook that allows the bottle to travel with you no matter where the day takes you.  

The bright and lightweight base contains a 400 watt motor and has fuss-free one-touch blending. Should you accidentally overheat the motor the included resettable fuse will revive it in just 15 minutes. Tough blender blades can chew through whatever add-ins you want to add to your Shakeology. Although, be careful adding large chunks of ice as the motor may stutter a bit trying to process these! 

Notably, this portable machine is available in four different colors: blue, pink, green, or orange. We're sure that one of these colors will suit your style, but if not, the small size also makes it effortless to store should you want to keep it in your cabinets. 

4. Hamilton Beach Personal Blender

If you are on a tight budget, the Hamilton Beach Personal Blender is right on the money. This blender is as small as they come and extremely budget-friendly. Furthermore, with its unique design, you can blend and drink from the same 14 ounce cup. The cup is also equipped with a nifty little travel lid, perfect for drinking shakes on the go. 

The blender base is very small and unobtrusive, making it ideal for your gym bag or the office. The 175 watt motor when combined with the efficient stainless steel blades provides you with all of the power you need to make healthy Shakeology shakes. One touch operation adds to the efficiency of this blender. 

Shakeology shakes aren’t the only thing this blender is useful for. Its petite but powerful size makes it great for making sauces or marinades or even baby food and purees when you are out and about. Keep in mind though, that if you want to add hard frozen fruit or ice, the Hamilton Beach may not be up to the task. 

Emphatically, this mini machine is also quiet enough to use on the go without disturbing your coworkers or neighbors. When you arrive home just place the lid and cup into the dishwasher for simple cleanup. 

5. Ninja Professional Countertop Blender

If the entire household is craving some shake goodness, then the Ninja Professional Countertop Blender is the one for you. Ninja is known for being a professional-grade and this blender is no exception. Its powerful blades can undoubtedly handle a Shakeology shake. Let's talk about it. 

First, the blades found in the blending container are ideal for when you want to add additional ingredients. The total crushing six-blade assembly can break down ice, frozen fruits, leafy greens, and even nuts in just seconds. They excel at nutrient extraction, providing deliciously smooth and healthy shakes no matter what your recipe calls for. 

Second, two included 16 ounces to go cups round out the functionality of this machine. The cups come with a separate set of blades designed to work seamlessly with the same blender base. You can blend directly in the 16 ounce to-go cup for a shake that can travel. Or, you can use the extra-large capacity 72-ounce pitcher to make Shakeology shakes for your and your whole fitness class.

Finally, the powerful 1100 watt base has three speeds, a pulse button, and a single-serve setting. If you want Shakeology drinks in the blink of an eye, this blender has got you covered. However, it also makes a wonderful kitchen appliance for sauces, batters, dips, and frozen drinks. It's an all around winner. 

6. NutriBullet Blender Combo

The NutriBullet Blender Combo is known for power, precision, and nutrition. This full sized model really shines when it comes to making nutritious and healthy shakes thanks to its extract setting. However, shakes aren't the only thing that the Nutribullet can handle. 

This blender is quite versatile and can handle much anything that you want to blend. Three speeds and two different pitcher sizes allow you to create a variety of blends. Either of the smaller to-go cups is ideal for drinks, baby food, or sauces. The larger pitcher with its vented lid cap is great for making large batches of frozen drinks, dips, batters, or even soup.

The 1200 watt base works in conjunction with the stainless steel extractor blades. The motor and the blades work together to create a cyclonic action that pulls all of the ingredients downwards and pulverizes them into a smooth, vitamin-rich blend. Your Shakeology shakes will come out with the perfect texture, and consistency every time, even if you decide to throw in a few fibrous greens, fruit, or ice.

The Nutribullet is easy to operate thanks to just six simple buttons: power, extract, low, medium, high, and pulse. In addition, suction feet on the base keep the blender from walking off your counter, which is certainly appreciated with this powerful machine.

7. Magic Bullet Blender

What is good style without accessories? For us, the Magic Bullet Blender rounds out our list due to its incredible versatility. This is an eleven-piece set that is extremely functional, but also very compact. If you are looking for an easy to operate kitchen appliance that doesn’t take up a lot of space, this is it!

The 250 watt high torque motor is efficient yet quiet. You can effortlessly blend up your breakfast Shakeology mixture in the 16 ounce travel cup without worrying about waking up your roommates or family. When finished, just twist on the lid of your choice and head out the door. 

The set also includes a handled mug style blending cup and a smaller blending cup with a sealed lid. The smaller cup is great for making baby food or small purees while either the traditional to-go cup or the mug work well for smoothies.

Beyond drinks, this petite blender can whip, grind, chop, and puree. A twist of the wrist provides sufficient power to make anything from shakes to appetizers and even desserts.

Though if you plan on using your blender for other recipes, you may want a larger capacity. Blenders can be very practical when it comes to making large batches of frozen drinks, batch preparing baby food, or just doing meal prep for a family recipe. Keep in mind, smaller capacity blenders are easy to travel with while larger blenders are bulkier and heavier. 

A happy medium would be to choose a blender that comes with various cup sizes, like the Ninja Professional Countertop Blender. A blender system like this gives you the most flexibility when it comes time to make your shake. Nevertheless, take some time to think through your typical shake size before making your decision. 

Ease of Cleaning

How easy it is to clean a blender is one factor that is often overlooked during the buying process, yet is one of the most important factors to consider. Blenders last longer and perform better if they are regularly maintained. When blending things like milk or powders, this topic becomes even more relevant. 

Shakeology shakes are recommended one to two times each day. This means that you will be using your blender often. A blender that is easy to clean is essential.