A blender is most used for making smoothies, soups and milkshakes, but they can also create delicious meals from scratch – some are capable of grinding pastes like pesto and nut butters while others allow you to emulsify mayonnaise and make aioli. Some blenders can even be used for mixing batters.
There are many types available, so how does a cheap and cheerful $40 benchtop model compare against a high-speed super blender (also known as high performance blender) that could set you back a cool $1500? And how do you make sure you're getting the one that best suits your needs?
Benchtop or stick blender?
While it's great to think you'll be using a blender for a myriad of new culinary adventures, if the truth is you're only going to end up using it occasionally for fruit smoothies and shakes, a stick blender will do the job and cost you less.

But if you're blending often and with ingredients like hard fruit, seeds, vegetables and ice, you'll need the grunt only a benchtop blender can offer.

When is a blender not a blender?
Traditional benchtop blenders are evolving into completely different beasts than they were just a few years ago. The current superfood and juicing crazes mean that manufacturers are giving their blenders more oomph, and making more health claims. You'll see loads of buzzwords like "high velocity", "pulverise" "whole food juice" and "improved mouthfeel".

Our reports cut through all this hype, but there's no denying the difference between a blender that can only crush a few ice cubes, compared with one that'll mill corn kernels. Our reports categorise benchtop blenders into standard (traditional) blenders and the 'high performance blenders' (super blenders) that mill and make nut butters.

Many of the mid-priced blenders, in the $300–500 price bracket, can do more than cheaper blenders and may suit your needs, but you'll need to take a closer look at the available features and differences.
High performance blenders
If you're into heavy-duty blending you can't go past a high performance blender (super blender). They offer more versatility than what you can get from a regular blender and they're extra powerful too, tackling a whole range of tasks.

These high-speed super blenders can be compared to all-in-one machines in that they can do things like:

mill flour
chop or crush wet and dry ingredients
crush large amounts of ice into a snow-like appearance
create hot soup (above 70°C) in around five minutes from completely raw ingredients, using blade friction alone
make nut butters
create spice pastes
make dough
turn tough vegetables like kale into a silky-smooth consistency (with the help of a little water)
Some models have heavy duty 'dry' jugs available so you don't have to wreck your regular jug with abrasive and hard foods, or you can buy a separate jug just for dry tasks.

Warm and frothy
The force generated by super blenders means they create more air and heat than a regular blender. In our test, we found super blender green smoothie temperatures rose by as much as 7°C (regular blenders rose up to 2°C). To bring a luke-warm smoothie back down to a thirst-quenching temperature, simply add ice.

Safe use
It's like a scene from a movie: you're happily blending away when your smoothie explodes all over your kitchen. This has happened in our own kitchen lab – the lid was off a blender and the pulse button was accidentally activated.

An incident like this can easily happen, and unfortunately with the reports of erupting Thermomixes it's important to take extra safety precautions:

Be mindful of where the controls are positioned and how they work.
Don't blend hot soup – wait for it to cool first.
Put the jug on the unit when ready to blend and keep the lid on when removing the jug.
Turn the appliance off at the power point first.
Take care when handling removable blades.
Never go over the maximum blending times.
Look for a blender with a safety cut out time, lid lock and measuring cap lock.

Single-serve blenders
Manufacturers have also created a category of inexpensive 'single-serve' blenders that let you blend ingredients and drink from the same bottle. These are increasingly popular, and handy for busy people heading for work in the mornings (some fit into your car's drink holder) or teenagers needing an energy boost after school.

The disadvantage of these blenders is that they aren't as powerful as traditional blenders, and typically operate on a pulse function. You can't use one for more than a minute at a time and you need to add liquid to the fruit and vegetables first.

Here are some things to consider if you're going to buy a single-serve blender:

Multiple cups/jugs Handy if you want to prepare a single-serve smoothie each for a few people.

Cleaning If the bottle is narrow you may need to use a bottle brush to thoroughly clean it.

On/off switch Better than a push-and-twist type, which may put more wear and tear on the blender.

Rubber seal One that sits on the outside of the blade assembly instead of under the blade will be easier to remove. The rubber seal should also sit firmly within the blade assembly – seals can become loose over time from removing and cause leaks.

Blade assembly Should have adequate grip as after processing some become tighter and can be difficult to remove. The threading around the blade assembly and the cup/bottle should be smooth and easy to screw on firmly to prevent leaks.

Exit hole Helpful inside the shaft area for draining any spills.

Other things to consider when buying a blender
Jug capacity
How many servings do you need? Blender jug capacity can vary from a tiny 600mL single-serve blender to a family-friendly 2L. Keep in mind that some jugs can be heavy to lift and move, especially when full. Measurement gradings on the side of the jug can also be a useful cooking tool to indicate how much the blender can cope with.

Jug material and shape
Glass jugs are heavier and prone to breaking if dropped. Plastic jugs are more common than glass but more likely to become stained with certain foods (like turmeric for example).

Jugs can be square or round. Manufacturers design them in a way that lets ingredients be effectively distributed around the blender, but there are other factors like the blades and turning force (torque) that affect performance.

Bench or cupboard?
Some models look good enough to display on your bench, but they can take up a lot of room. If you plan to keep it in your cupboard, check you have the space for it and remember that heavy blenders can be a strain to lift out of awkward places.

Ease of use and cleaning
A model with removable blades can help to make cleaning around the bottom of the jug easier. Jugs with built-in blades are still OK if the jug has a wider base so it's easier to remove any unprocessed chunks sitting underneath them.

CHOICE tip: Put warm water into the jug with a drop of detergent and turn it on for a few seconds.

It's also good idea to get a jug that's dishwasher safe, but check that the jug will fit in your dishwasher.

Lids can be a hassle to clean, especially if seals need to be removed first and if lots of ingredients get splashed into the lid.

General comfort is important, such as whether it's easy to lock the jug in place and scrape ingredients from the sides of the blender.

Speed settings
Blenders need three speed settings to be effective – high, low and pulse.

Many blenders offer a graduated start-up feature that slowly brings the blades to the desired speed, reducing splash-back. Some models even have pre-programmed functions like soup, green smoothie or sorbet.

Pulse function
The pulse setting gives a short burst of power and is useful for small quantities of foods, particularly dry foods, to help distribute the load and encourage an even consistency.

Controls and construction
Controls can be push-button, adjustable dials or touch pads. Touch pads are the easiest to clean but look for controls that are sealed well, so food can't get into any crevices around them. A solid, heavy base with non-slip grip is handy so the blender stays steady on the bench.

Chute
A larger chute will allow you to add ingredients while the blender is on, but keep in mind that you might have some splash if you're adding liquid. Some also have push sticks or tampers that let you safely move ingredients around inside the jar while the blender is running. Tampers are handy if you're making nut butters and need to push ingredients down towards the blade, or blending awkwardly-shaped vegetables when making smoothies.

Wattage
Wattage generally ranges from around 500W to 1200W, but in our testing we've found that this doesn't appear to have an effect on performance.

Cost
We test a range of standard, personal (or single-serve) and high performance blenders, ranging in price from $29 for a standard model, right up to $2200 for a high performance blender.

What type of blender do you really need?
There is more than one type of blender. You might be familiar with the traditional countertop blender. It’s the kind your grandmother used. We’ll start with the most common and popular type.

Countertop blenders:
It’s a permanent kitchen appliance. Most offer multiple speeds and straightforward operation. They tend to be less expensive than high-performance blenders because they’re less powerful.

Many people keep their blender on the kitchen countertop, so space is a consideration. The base of the unit contains its motor.

Countertop blenders can feature a large number of speed settings. Even professionals tend to use slow, medium, fast, or super-fast speeds. You may only need 3 to 5 speeds.

Immersion blenders:
These are immersion hand-held blenders. They’ve become inexpensive, so many people buy one in addition to a countertop blender.

The immersion blender gets inserted into the food you want to blend.

You can use a hand blender in pots or pans, as well as bowls. It works best for making smoothies or pureeing soups. Their motors aren’t powerful compared to a countertop version.

Some immersion blenders are cordless and rechargeable so that you can stow them in a kitchen drawer.

Personal blenders
The name says it all. These blenders are designed for single servings. They’re just the thing for power shakes or smoothies in the morning.

Most feature containers or cups that are meant to be used for blending and drinking. Many also have caps so you can make a smoothie and take it with you.

These small blenders usually have only 1 or 2 speeds. They’re inexpensive compared to most countertop blenders. They are not a good substitution for a traditional countertop blender if you do a lot of cooking.

Recommended Personal Blenders


High-performance blenders
These top-rated blenders offer the features of a countertop blender, but on steroids. Unlike other blender types, it can process hard and soft ingredients. Some can grind wheat into flour.

High-performance blending machines have powerful motors and high price. Their base is often larger than a traditional countertop blender.
2. What type of “blender personality” you have?
The type of blender you need might depend on the sort of “blender personality” you have. Which of these fit you?

I’m a chef-in-training
Sure, blenders are great for smoothies. But you’ve been known to crack open a cookbook and make a sauce from scratch. You want a multifunctional blender that helps out with soups and sauces. It would also be great if it could chop and grind.

You’ll need a high-performance blender not only for the powerful motor but the larger capacity. High-performance blenders also can double as food processors. Some can even heat.

I’m a health nut
Healthy fruit and vegetable smoothies or protein shakes are the only things you make in a blender. Then you really need only a personal blender – especially if you only make them for yourself.

I’m a mixologist
Ice can be tough on blender blades. It also can overwhelm and burn out the motor. A personal blender or low-power countertop blender isn’t the right choice if you enjoy making frozen drinks. Choose a high-powered countertop blender, or a high-performance blender if you can afford it.

3. Where will you put it?
You can use an immersion blender anywhere because it goes to where you need it. Most personal blenders are small enough to store in a cupboard.

The average countertop blender and its upgraded high-performance cousins can create a problem. Some are too big to be placed on kitchen countertops that have upper cabinets.

The standard distance from counter to upper cabinets is 18 inches. Many countertop blenders may just barely fit in this space.

Make sure you have sufficient space for the blender you plan to buy.

4. How big a blender do you need?
We’re not talking about dimension when it comes to size. It’s the capacity of the blender’s container that counts. Capacity will determine the number of ingredients you can process in the blender jar or container. How many servings do you usually need to make? It’s an important consideration.

Standard size: Most standard countertop blender containers (also called jars) hold 48 to 72 ounces. You’ll be able to prepare drinks for 6 to 9 people.
High-performance: They’re more powerful, and they’re bigger. Some high-performance blenders can hold up to 145 ounces.
Individual servings: Personal blenders hold just 8 to 20 ounces. They’re not a good idea if you’ve got a family or you want to experiment in the kitchen.
One size does not fit all. Manufacturers know this. It’s why many offer blender containers in larger or smaller sizes. They will fit on your blender’s base.

5. What type of blades should the blender have?

This is the part of your blender that processes food. You may not have much choice about the shape or design. Manufacturers tend to make that decision for you.

You’ll notice that some brands have just two flat blades that angle upwards at the edge. Others may feature four blades that have an almost spiral shape. Some blades are blunt, while others are very sharp.

Each of these designs gives the appliance a different blending “personality.” Some blades are better at pulverizing dry ingredients into a powder. Other blade designs do a better job of masticating food to create silky-smooth consistencies. Most blender blade configurations are multifunctional.

High-quality stainless steel blades are the best material. It offers better performance and will resist corrosion.

Be aware that not all blender manufacturers offer containers with removable blades. Some owners prefer removable blades. They can be easier to clean.

6. How powerful should it be?
People often struggle with this question. Is it possible to buy a blender that’s too powerful? You’re not planning to use it to crush rocks and twigs.

The concern goes the other way. You need a blender with enough power to process what you plan to put in it. Soft fruit smoothies don’t need the power of a high-performance blender. But you wouldn’t want to try chopping up nuts in your personal blender.

Yes, I’m asking you to look into the future and think about what you might someday use your blender to make. Don’t sell yourself short if you can afford to buy a higher-power blender. It offers future versatility.

Here are some power range suggestions:

300 watts: Most basic countertop blenders offer this power rating. You’ll be able to chop all but the hardest of ingredients. Blending shouldn’t be much of a problem.

500 to 700 watts: Now you’re getting into the range of true versatility. A blender with this much power can process soups and take you beyond liquids.

Over 700 watts: Moving past 700 watts allows you to work with dry ingredients. Make your own peanut butter. Process grains into flour. The extra power means you won’t be limited if you want to explore. It also gives you the ability to make large quantities. You will pay more for this extra muscle.

7. How much noise do you mind?
A blade is spinning up to 20,000 RPM or more means they are revolving at speeds of up to 270 miles per hour! You don’t expect them to be whisper-quiet, do you?

The combination of the motor, blades, and processed food add up to a certain amount of noise.

Normal conversation happens at a noise level of between 55 and 60 decibels (dB).

Perdue University measured a food blender and other kitchen devices. They determined that at 88dB, the average blender was even louder than garbage disposal. Constant exposure to this level of sound would cause damage to your ears after 8 hours.

More power in a blender means it will be louder. But high-performance blenders also feature quality materials that dampen noise. Look for manufacturers who promote their use of sound absorption features.

All manufacturers should be able to provide you with the operational sound level of their appliance.

8. What type of settings does it need?
Some of us just prefer to push a button. Others want precise control. It’s why there are cars with automatic and manual transmissions.

Blenders are the same way.

Some manufacturers give us the choice of leaving speed and power up to the blender. Others let us make those decisions ourselves. Which do you prefer?

Buying a blender with a series of buttons for speed offers convenience. Some brands achieve the same thing with rotary clicking dial. The settings don’t select speed. They select the type of blending you want or the kind of food you’re making.

High-end blenders have sophisticated control interfaces. They allow you to select specific food descriptions. Are you making a pasta sauce?

Just punch it in. Some high-end blenders turn this into an automated process. Want a smoothie? Pick that “recipe.” The blender will create it using the optimal speeds.

The biggest you’ll have to make is whether you want precision or manual speed control

Blenders have various types of control panels. Some feature buttons and switches. Others have dials or even touchpads. Some blenders have digital displays. These are the ways you’ll operate your blender.

Many people find that 3 to 5 speeds are sufficient. If you want more options, you’ll have more exceptional control over speed.

9. How easy is it to clean?
I love cleaning things, said no one ever.

Most blender manufacturers feature containers and blades that are dishwasher-safe. But not all dishwashers can accommodate the larger capacity blender jars.

Make sure you know the limitations of your dishwasher before you make a blender choice.

Many people prefer to wash their blender jars by hand. Be careful of the blades if you go this route. You don’t want to cut yourself.

Some high-performance blenders can clean themselves. Add liquid dish soap and water, and let it run. A quick rinse and you’re done.

Online reviewers advise paying attention to the ability to remove the blender blades.

Don’t forget the exterior. You’ll clean the container, blades, and lid every time you use it. The rest of the blender will need an occasional wipe-down. Blender bases with smooth exteriors and minimal crevices will be easier to maintain.

10. Does the lid fit tightly?
It may seem like a strange thing to have to consider. But it’s essential. A firm-fitting blender lid prevents unnecessary spills. What you’re making may be hot. Keep in mind that a high-performance blender will churn contents fast enough to heat it with friction.

Most blender lids feature a removable cap located at the center of the lid. It lets you insert ingredients while blending. It also helps to equalize the pressure that may build up as you process food.
FAQ about Buying a Blender
Q. What should you look for when buying a blender?
A. You will want to decide on the material you wish to the jar to be made from first. Glass is much heavier and harder to pour from, but plastic can be scratched easier and might hold onto the smell of the last thing you blended.

You will also want to think about the motor’s wattage and how much space it will take up on your countertop. Typically, the higher the wattage, the more expensive and more powerful the blender is.

You will also want to think about the size you want to buy. Do you want a portable blender or a much larger one that stays at home on the countertop? Portable blenders are better for making one serving at a time, while the counter blenders can make much more.

Q. How powerful should a blender be?
A. It depends on if you have a handheld blender or a countertop one. Handheld blenders need more than 100 watts to be efficient at blending ingredients. Countertop blenders work around 500 watts, although you want to go higher if you plan on using harder foods in it.

Q. How do you know if a blender is powerful?
A. The power of a blender’s motor is measured in watts. When the wattage is higher, the more powerful the blender is. If you want to blend hard foods like ice or nuts, you will want to find a high wattage blender.

Q. How much should you spend on a blender?
A. This depends on your own needs and budget. Cheaper blenders can cost $30, while the most expensive ones can get over $500. In most cases, paying more gets you more features and a better quality blender.

However, it would be best if you never spent more than you are comfortable with. There are a ton of cost-efficient blenders out there that work great!

Q. Do you need an expensive blender?
A. No, you want to get a blender that works well for you. While higher-cost blenders are usually more powerful, that does not mean that you should only buy those. Less powerful blenders work just as well if you add a little bit of water into the jar while blending. This gives your ingredients more room to move around.

Q. Which is better: glass or plastic blender?
A. Glass tends to be better in many blenders. It will not scratch as easily as plastic and will not hold onto a lingering food odor. However, it is much heavier than plastic. The extra weight may be an issue for some people.