When people talk about blenders they are mostly referring to counter top models that crush ice, puree soups, or make frozen drinks. The two high end blenders that we have used are Vitamix and Blendtec. Either of these will likely last a lifetime. The other type of blender that we use regularly is an immersion blender. Immersion blenders are handy for sauces on the stove top, blending a pesto, or making a quick salsa. We find the immersion blender to be more useful than a food processor.
Blendtec
Like most families we started out with a reasonably priced blender which was replaced by another reasonably priced blender. Our most recent blender purchase was a Blendtec ES3 and we have been using it ever since. It’s loud and will scare the neighbors but we haven’t found anything that it would blend. We purchased ours as a refurbished model with the wideside jar. It saved us a few bucks and came with the same warranty as a brand new one.
Recommended Blendtec
Vitamix
The other quality blender on the market is the venerable Vitamix. I know people who have had their Vitamix for over twenty years. Like the Blendtec they are loud and will blend anything you put in it. The classic Vitamix blenders were simple to operate and had minimum features. The new classic models build upon the heritage of the older models while adding more controls.
Recommended Vitamix
Vitamix 5200 Blender, Professional-Grade, 64 oz. Container, Black
Ninja
We know a number of people who really like their Ninja branded blenders. They lack the long seven year warranty of the Vitamix or three year warranty of the Blendtec. By all accounts they do a very good job at normal blending tasks. We’ve seen them in action in other kitchens and the results are good. We haven’t lived with one in our kitchen but still feel comfortable recommending them if you are looking for a quality blender at a lower price point than a Vitamix or Blendtec.
Recommended Ninja
Recommended Immersion Blender
Cuisinart CSB-76BC SmartStick 200-Watt Immersion Hand Blender, Brushed Chrome
Recommendations
- Vitamix is the standard by which all blenders are measured
- Blendtec also makes a high quality blender
- The Ninja brand makes powerful blenders at a more reasonable price point
- Immersion blenders can be used in place of a food processor