Blendtec vs. Vitamix {Which Blender is Best?? An Unsponsored Review}
Today it’s Blendtec vs. Vitamix! Two of the most popular high-powered blenders go head-to-head in this closeup {unsponsored} look to figure out which blender really is the best!
Disclaimer: this is an unsponsored post (i.e. I haven’t been paid to talk about these blenders); this post contains a few Amazon affiliate links for products I’ve bought there. As always, feel free to shop around for the best price!
I fully realize I may be diving into controversial waters today, but it’s finally the day where we talk openly and honestly about blenders.
I know. Hold onto your hats.
Just like the Kitchenaid vs. Bosch debate (over 400 comments on that post!), I am inundated with emails, comments, questions about if I own a Blendtec or Vitamix, and ultimately, which one would I recommend.
I have strong feelings on the matter. This should not surprise anyone who even remotely knows me. {Spoiler alert: I have strong feelings on everything, particularly kitchen appliances. Also, I probably need to get a life.}
As I already mentioned, no company has ever sent me a free blender. Blendtec and Vitamix could probably care less who I am and what opinions I have (it’s ok, no hard feelings, guys).
Here’s a quick back story of my blender history: in about 2010 or thereabouts, my mom gifted me a Blendtec for a Christmas gift. I was stoked. Blendtec was my go-to blender for about 7 years (several models as I had two of them “die” and get replaced through the warranty). A little over a year ago in 2017, I gave my faltering, on-it’s-way-out Blendtec to my sister (I’m so nice like that) and bought a Vitamix at Costco. I’ve been using it exclusively for over a year now. Incidentally, the Blendtec is still working out pretty well for my sis, too (I borrowed it for the pictures in this post, actually).
I know there are many, many other blenders (high-powered or not) on the market, but because Blendtec and Vitamix are the ones I get the most questions about, and they are the only ones I’ve owned and used, they are the ones up for closer inspection today.
Additionally, there are a lot of different models available for both Blendtec and Vitamix. For today’s discussion, I’m comparing two fairly lateral models from each brand – mostly because they are similar to the ones I’ve owned: Blendtec Classic 575 and Vitamix 5300.
Let’s take a quick look at a few side-by-side comparisons.
You can see that at least for these two models, cost is fairly comparable (in addition, certified refurbished blenders for both brands can be found at a discount). The sky is the limit with these blenders, though. Both brands have professional series blenders that are upwards of $800!
Now let’s go a bit deeper into some of the pros and cons I’ve experienced with each blender.
Performance + Noise
From the above chart, the horsepower of the two blenders is pretty comparable. Keep in mind that the power given for most appliances is the peak power, and the blenders usually never operate at that highest level. Misleading and annoying? Yes.
But operationally, both the Blendtec and Vitamix, for these models, operate at right around 1,400 to 1,500 watts (right around 2 hp). So there aren’t any significant differences in power.
I can only speak from my experience, but although the Blendtec is slightly higher in horsepower, I have enjoyed using the Vitamix much more based on how effectively it blends.
Can you get a deliciously smooth milkshake with either blender? Yes. Smoothie? Yes. Neither blender skyrockets higher than the other in terms of actual output.
The difference is in how that creamy milkshake or smoothie is achieved. In my experience, the Vitamix blends more quickly and more efficiently than the Blendtec.
I would constantly have to repeat the smoothie cycle on the Blendtec to get our morning smoothies just right, whereas with the Vitamix, I swing the dial up to a 5 or 6 and let it blend for 30-45 seconds, and we’re good to go.
I think this difference boils down to three factors: the design of the jar, the preprogrammed functions, and the tamper.
Although I do feel like there are several cons with the design of the Vitamix jar(s) – more below – the fact that the low-profile, 64-ounce jar is wider and squattier (for lack of a better term) than the Blendtec jars earns a few points in blending functionality.
The wider surface area at the bottom of the jar makes for easier blending with large batches, in my very scientific opinion.
The tamper that is provided with the Vitamix is the source of a lot of controversy (Blendtec blenders don’t have this). Some people love it, some people hate it.
I don’t love that it’s one more piece to clean, but the upside is that I also don’t use it every time I blend food in the Vitamix. I only pull it out for extra thick mixtures (like if I add too much frozen fruit to our morning smoothies or am craving a perfect chocolate milkshake), and it really does make a world of difference for that ultra-thick smoothie or milkshake or ice cream.
Whereas the Blendtec often has to be stopped and stirred with a spoon or spatula so the thicker bits at the bottom transfer up to the top, the Vitamix tamper does the job for you while the blender is running (don’t worry, there’s a safety edge that prevents the tamper from hitting the blades).
And a quick note about noise: both blenders are loud. There’s no getting around it. I’m sure in super scientific tests, there’s a difference between the two, but in my experience, it’s not significant. THEY ARE LOUD!
Options + Ease of Use + Jars
Like I mentioned above, the Blendtec definitely has more options available in terms of blending and preprogrammed cycles.
The model pictured in this post is a little older than the current Blendtec Classic blenders, but preprogrammed cycles are still available on the new models.
The Vitamix is plain and simple. You’ve got yourself a pulse button, start/stop switch, and a speed dial.
Having used both, I think of the Blendtec as the quick, little, strong, whippersnapper of the two, while the Vitamix is a gentle, rumbling, hard working giant.
And yes, I’m weird.
While I really like the design of the 64-ounce Vitamix jar, I also don’t think it’s a very practical size for smaller families or individuals. It’s huge! For us, it’s great because I have a large family and make almost everything in bulk, but it’s not very useful for someone who might want to blend smaller batches of salad dressings and sauces – the smaller batches don’t blend as well in the low-profile jar.
A major plus of Blendtec is that very often, the blender packages come with two jars: the classic jar (32 ounces) and the wild side jar (36 ounces). I also had the twister jar when I owned my Blendtec, and I used it for smaller batches (sauces, salad dressings, graham cracker crumbs, etc). I loved that little jar.
When I bought my Vitamix, it only came with the wider 64-ounce jar. I later bought the 32-ounce jar – I’m often using my blender for multiple things, and so for me, it’s been worth it to have both jars. However, it is an additional expense (I wish Vitamix would add it to their blender packages!).
One note I’ll add in this section is that the Vitamix is definitely heavier, bigger, and bulkier. You can see that just from the pictures. The base is taller and wider. I keep the base and the jars in a kitchen cupboard, and it definitely takes up more cupboard space now that I have a Vitamix instead of a Blendtec.
Cleaning
In my experience, both blenders clean about the same. My mom swears by adding warm water and a drop or two of dish soap to the blender and pulsing or running it on medium speed and then rinsing. I hardly ever do that because I’ve usually put the base back in the cupboard already.
So I do the old-fashioned hand wash action, and it’s fine. Honestly, it takes less than a minute to clean either Blendtec or Vitamix. The jar configurations and lids don’t make a significant difference for cleaning, in my opinion.
However, I will say that I have found the Blendtec splashes around much, much more while blending. The Vitamix doesn’t seem to be quite as…well…energetic (see my above “gentle giant” comment).
For example here are the lids after blending identical batches of smoothies. Now certainly some of this boils down to size and configuration of the jars, but it still may be a helpful visual.
Durability
While I think both Blendtec and Vitamix blenders have their merits (and downfalls), one thing I can speak to from specific personal experience is that over the 6-7 years of owning a Blendtec, the motor burned out two separate times.
This was with fairly average daily use. I never store liquids or food in my blender jars (either brand) overnight, I rarely make ice cream or other ultra-thick concoctions in the blender (milkshakes are another matter), and I always twist the bottom of the driveshaft that spins the blades before using (a tip I learned from a Costco salesman years and years ago).
UPDATE: several of you in the comments have asked for details about this so I took a quick picture of what I mean. Basically, when I pull the jar out of the cupboard, I give a little twist to the metal driveshaft extending out of the bottom of the blender. You might notice it sticks a bit as you twist it – and that’s exactly why it’s important to give it a good spin before blending anything. The way the “blender professional” 🙂 explained it to me is that pre-twisting it with your fingers before blending keeps the driveshaft and blades from sticking while blending which will in turn keep them in tip top spinning shape. A simple step, but one I do out of habit now.
Blendtec always came through with a refurbished warranty replacement (although I did have some sketchy and frustrating experiences with their customer service line once or twice), but after my last Blendtec replacement started having display issues and a burning smell while making our smoothies, I decided to cut ties with Blendtec and try a Vitamix.
I’ve only had the Vitamix for a little over a year, so I can’t say right now that it is more durable than a Blendtec, but I haven’t had any issues so far. My dad has had a Vitamix for several years with no issues.
Conversely, I have many friends who have had Blendtec blenders for many years, also, with no issues.
But in my experience, my Blendtec wasn’t nearly as durable and long lasting as I had hoped and anticipated.
In Summary
Well, if you’ve gotten this far (bless you), you might be wondering – with all this information, which blender really is best?
Obviously this is going to boil down to many personal factors: budget, the exact model you want, size of family (for jar size), room for storage (remember, Vitamix is slightly bigger), desire for preprogrammed settings, etc.
But for me, after using a Blendtec blender for 6+ years and now having experience with a Vitamix blender for the last year or so, I can easily say that the Vitamix wins for me.
It blends better, it’s easier to use, I love the tamper provided to aid in quicker/more efficient blending, and even though the specifications may not agree, it feels much more powerful than the Blendtec blender.
Overall, it’s the blender I would recommend! However, I also know it may not be the right blender for everyone.
And because I know you might also have strong opinions about this, comment below and let me know if you own a high-powered blender, which one you own, and why you love (or hate) it!
Disclaimer: I am a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for me to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Vitamix all the way!!!
🙂
My husband wanted a blender at work to make his green smoothies so awhile back he took my ‘old’ Blendtec and gave me a fancy new Ninja with the food processor and single serving smoothie jars. He loves the Blendtec because it puréed even the chia and flaxseeds into the smoothie instead of leaving those crunchy bits. Obviously there was a big difference in quality with my Ninja. I liked having several small jars because my family makes smoothies often, too. But it didn’t cut it. For Christmas I was finally upgraded to a Vitamix. You were right. It’s right up there with the Blendtec. It’s not quite as good with the seeds, but still an awesome piece of kitchen machinery! It has such a large jar, I miss the smaller jars, too. I heard that the newer Vitamix models come with a converter lid for those awesome smaller jars, but I think my arsenal of blenders is maxed out! So sad…
You have experience with a whole array of blenders! Thanks for the feedback!
This is not an exaggeration…I have legitimate fears about something happening to my Vitamix. I have had it for almost seven years, and I use it EVERY DAY. I am so attached to it that I take it with us when we go on vacation.
I love this so much.
Here’s an even better suggestion: the Wolfgang Puck commercial blender. I’ve had one for about 4 years. No problems. Better jar design, same capabilities. Hands down, the best price. I just saw it again on HSN for $149! I don’t think it has much of a warranty, but I always chuckle when I see a demo at Costco and then go home and duplicate it for less than 1/2 the price!
Really? I’ve never heard of it!
After reading your post my Very Helpful Feedback is that now I really want a milkshake.
Hahahaha, best comment. Thanks, Barb. 🙂
Thank you for this post! My 11-year old Cuisinart blender finally bit the biscuit last week and I have been wondering if it’s time to invest. Time to go to Costco :)) I love your blog xo
Haha, cutest phrase ever (bit the biscuit). Good luck! Let me know what you end up with!
Yes! This is literally what I needed today! We have been trying to decide which blender to buy – Vitamix or Blendtec since our Kitchenaid is starting to die (10 years – great little blender!).
Thanks so much for your review!
Good luck with your decision, Courtney!
I’ve owned the same vitamix for 11 years now and it still works great with almost daily use. After 10 years, I did have to replace the jar, but the base has never failed me!
I love that! Over a decade…seriously amazing.
Hi Mel,
have you ever heard of the Thermomix? Blending is just one of the many things it does. It makes yogurt, you can cook in it, regulating the temperature (so you can go from melting butter or chocolate, to making mashed potatoes, cooking jams and sauces to can, to steaming your whole meal, veggies and meat and all). It kneads amazing dough, and does soooo much more, too much to list 🙂 there are magnetic recipe book chips that you can attach to the machine and scroll through on the touch screen. There really is NOTHING like this machine. There is probably not a single day that goes by without us using it. Check it out on youtube! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RFoJhhDMNE0
Love and Greeting from Manitoba 🙂
Interesting! I’ll have to look into it. Sounds like a wonder machine! 🙂
Vitamix here! Love that we agree on this, and my choice has been validated by my girl Mel!
Haha, love ya, Bri. 🙂
Vitamix gets the vote for me as well!! I have a professional 750 for about 4 years. It lives on my counter. I am with your mom about cleaning. Mine actually has a clean setting just add a drop of dish soap and some water and hit the button. I hand wash here and there mainly if i get something on the outside but clean setting works great. It does go up to the highest setting and then powers down for several seconds at a lower speed. Literally just a dab of dish soap if you get to much you end up doing it again! Great machine dont know how i lived without it
I bet the professional series is AMAZING!
Do you use the Bosch attachment blender? It’s the only one I’ve used for years….thoughts on it?
I have a Blendtec and a Bosch. My biggest complaint with the Bosch is that I have great difficulty separating the blade from the jar. Arghh! The Bosch is powerful, but the Blendtec is more so. Just my opinion. I gave my Bosch blender attachment to my daughter because I hated fiddling with getting it off and on and fiddling with the parts. (Ps—love my Bosch mixer!)
Yeah, I agree, Melanie – you know I LOVE my Bosch mixer, but the blender was such a pain to take apart and clean.
I know I’m not Mel, but I have a Bosch, which I love, and used the attachment blender as my only blender for 10+ years (only because I didn’t want to buy another appliance). I got a Vitamix last Christmas. The two don’t even compare. I don’t think I could ever even use the Bosch attachment again. Whenever I made smoothies or soups in the Bosch, there would still be big clumps of fruit or ice. You’ll never have that problem with the Vitamix. Super smooth! Totally worth it.
Great feedback, Jennifer!
Hey Robyn, I used to use the Bosch blender quite a bit until it broke (not the company’s fault, my kids knocked it off the counter). I haven’t used it in years, though, because I never replaced the jar after I got a Blendtec.
Thanks for this question and reply. I have had a compact Bosch for 12 years, and recently inherited a Universal Bosch (insert happy dance). I was wondering if buying the blender attachment was going to be worth it. I now have my answer.
Well now you have me wondering how you make your perfect chocolate milkshake!
Haha. I sent the “recipe” out in a newsletter a while ago, but it’s basically a quart of chocolate ice cream, splash of vanilla, and can of evaporated milk. It’s AMAZING!
Mel, it’s like you’re reading my mind! We are in the market for a blender (had a cheaper Blendtec that died after only a couple years) and I was just thinking yesterday, “I wonder what Mel likes/uses.” So, thank you for this post! We were already leaning towards a Vitamix and they’re on sale at Costco right now, which is awesome. I have a friend that has had her Vitamix for 15+ years and has never had a problem with it. Thank you for your advice and all the hard work you do for your blog! We are so thankful for you!
15 years?? Holy moly! I’m glad this post came at a good time for you! Let me know what you end up with (awesome that Costco is running a sale right now!)
Thanks for writing this! I have a Ninja currently and I like it. Hopefully it lasts a long time, but if/when it dies, I’m hoping to upgrade to a Blendtec or Vitamix. I was leaning toward Blendtec, but after reading this I might have to go with a Vitamix!
I hope your Ninja lasts, too! My sister has a Ninja and loves it.
I’ve had my Vitamix for about 10 years now and I’ve been really happy with it other than that it won’t fit under my counter (the low profile model wasn’t available then). I almost wish I had a reason to replace it so I could get the low-profile version, but it’s still working like a champ and may continue to for another couple of decades. 🙂
That’s amazing! 10 years!
I owned a vitamix and returned it and got blendtec. I find the blendtec so much easier to clean, and the size difference really is significant. And I have a family of 6, so we like things in large scale too! But for me those were the winning factors—just those boring logistics that decide whether it’s worth using it as regularly as I’d like to, or if it’s too much hassle. I use the whole fruit setting for all our smoothies and never have to run it more than once. Glad you love your vitamix though!
Such a good point, Deanna! It really is so important to figure out the big and little factors to see what is a deal breaker for each person (if it helps, my husband thinks cleaning the Blendtec was WAY easier, but since he hardly washes the blender, he didn’t really get a vote). 🙂
We bought a Blendtec 8 or so years ago and, though we’ve had one pitcher die on us, it’s still going strong. One question, since I didn’t see it addressed in your review: Does Vitamix still require a different jar/pitcher for dry blending (aka grain grinding)? When I went through the extensive debate between Blendtec and Vitamix all those years ago, Blendtec won because sometimes I just want a cup of oat flour and it was too much of a nuisance to get out a grain mill. I didn’t want the expense of an additional specific pitcher for occasional use, so that ruled Vitamix out.
It does take 2 smoothie cycles every time in the Blendtec, so I’m definitely interested in trying a Vitamix after reading your review—but the grain “grinding” thing is a big factor for me, so hopefully they’ve resolved that!
I’m considering the Vitamix bundle from Costco which comes with the dry jar and a wet jar. In reading, the dry blades push stuff away, and the wet blades pull it together, so they have a different purpose.
You know, I’m not sure about the dry blending in a Vitamix. I haven’t tried grinding wheat or other coarse grains in the Vitamix “regular” jar, but I do a lot of crushing up graham crackers and nuts in the jars, and it works great (I use the pulse function)
I’m sure you’re right. I used my Blendtec to make your energy bite recipe and it couldn’t handle it, it overheated
Oh darn it! I wonder how the Vitamix would handle that mixture. I might have to try it.
I have a Blendtec and it’s far more blender than I need. However, I do make a lot of pureed soups and it does a great job with those. I guess I’d vote Blendtec, but if it dies I won’t replace it with another Blendtec or a Vita Mix.
Interesting, Sally! Appreciate your thoughts!
Vitamix all the way!!! I think it is so much better than the Blendtec!!! It’s all about smooth smoothies for me and the Vitamix is hands down better at that!
Yes to smooth smoothies! I think the Vitamix does a stellar job.
I really appreciate your post, I am waiting for my kitchen aid to bite the dust and was thinking of purchasing a blendtec, I am now going to look into a vitamix!
Do you use either to grind wheat?
I haven’t used either to grind wheat (I have a KoMo wheat grinder so haven’t needed to).
This is a fun post to read! Nothing like blenders to stir up controversy . We have a blendtec and I love it! I specifically wanted it because it has a lower profile. It fits into my cupboard more easily than a Vitamix. I also like that the sides of the jar are flat- seems easier to scrape out contents. We also got a killer deal on it at Costco a couple of Thanksgivings ago (around $230).
That all said, my actual theory is that most people choose their blender based on which blender company is demonstrating their product at Costco at the exact time they get a hankering for a high powered blender . It would totally be worth asking, “did you buy your blender from Costco after tasting a smoothie or taco soup sample from the same blender’s demo?” I bet it’s A HUGE percentage of people!
I agree about the flat sides of the Blendtec – that is a point in its favor for sure! And I laughed out loud at your second paragraph…because I think that’s SO true! 🙂
Meg, this made me laugh too, and I agree! Those Costco demos cause a lot of impulse buys. I think I got the same deal on the Blendtec and it is fine for my uses–but that’s only a couple days a week. The Blendtec works great for me, no issues, and since I’m not using it constantly, I couldn’t justify the extra cost of the Vitamix.
I will say that my friend’s Vitamix makes the BEST hummus ever, but I’m not crazy about the tamper thing.
Tell me more about spinning the driveshaft?!? I’ve never heard about this – should I be doing this? I have a Vitamix and love it!
I added a picture to the post to clear up any confusion, and yes, it’s such a simple step but one that apparently can extend the life of your blender jar (no matter the brand).
I admit, I was pretty stressed when I saw this article! Hahaha. I need a life. We were on the fence for a long time but after America’s Test Kitchen said Vitamix, we just got the Vitamix! We love it!!
Haha, I need a life, too. It’s ok. 🙂
I laugh because I can relate! If blenders cause me this much angst, it is full blown “analysis paralysis” to purchase a car! Sometimes I wonder how I ever even decided on a husband! Thanks, Mel for taking some of the pressure off with your wonderful reviews!
Liked your comparison. After much much research , we also bought a Vitamix several years ago and are loving it.
Glad to hear that, Diane!
I’ve owned a kitchen aid blender for over 20 years. Because I’m a cottage baker and make large batches of things I use my blender a lot. I also use it for smoothies every morning. The only problems I’ve had with it have been with the jars where the blade is sealed to the jar. I’ve had to replace two of those but kitchen aid replaced them at no charge and with no hassle. I’ve been looking at a vitamix and wondered if it was worth it to replace my kitchen aid. Thanks for the comparison.
Good luck with your decision, Eileen! I think if your kitchen aid blender is still going strong (despite the jar issues), there’s no need to replace it yet!
We have a Vitamix and love it. We have a large family and it isn’t perfect for us. I would love a smaller jar for smaller things, but can’t justify the cost yet!
It IS perfect for us! Autocorrect likes to play game with me sometimes, haha. #teamvitamix
🙂
Vitamix!
What do you mean ” you always twist the bottom of the driveshaft that spins the blades” ?
I was wondering the same thing!
I just added a picture to the post!
Hi, After having several “high powered blenders” I recently got a Vitamix as a gift. Why , because at the time it was cheaper than the Blendtec. I love ❤️ love this blender. My version came with two small jars and the squat 64 oz jar and a 10 year warranty. At the same time I bought the Perfect Blending Scale, because I am a geek. The scale turned my already new cool blender into a programmable blender via Bluetooth. I am sure Blendtec has a good product but I am a Vitamix gal.
Ok, I need to look into that scale (I’m a geek, too!)!
Love my Vitamixer! The machine will turn off automatically if it gets too hot to prevent motor from over heating!! Thanks Mel!!!!
Ives had vitamin for about 5 years and it’s worked well but I am always wishing I had a newer one with the wider base and dishwasher safe jar. How do your jars stay so clean? Ours is stained and I’ve not found anything to make them clear again.
Hey Peg, I don’t put my jars in the dishwasher – I just wash them by hand with hot soapy water. I’m guessing if it’s an older jar and already badly stained, it may not come all the way clean, but you might try using white vinegar and baking soda?
Ha ha! Yes! These are dangerous waters you tread. I finally went with a blendtec three years ago and love it immensely except for needing to stir things sometimes. As it doesn’t happen often it hasn’t bothered me much. Mine gets used almost daily and on some days several times. Mine is refurbished and still going strong. I was planning to switch when this one dies to a vitamix to see how I like it. Now I definitely will! Thanks for your testing, you’ve made a huge impact on my cooking and my family. My kids always ask if a particularly yummy meal is your recipe! We love you Mel!
Glad you love your Blendtec, Stacey! Honestly, neither blender is perfect; but it’s great to find one that you love!
I’ve owned my vitamix for 10+ yrs and its still going strong. I will never use another brand because I love it so much.
10 years? That’s amazing!
I love my Vita mixer! The Vita mixer motor will stop if it gets too hot so it doesnt burn out! Thanks Mel!!!
That’s a great feature!
Yesssss! I knew you would choose the vitamix! We have had both and we prefer the VM. It blends so well and it’s been 5 years without any problems.
Glad you love it so much, too!
So exciting!! I asked for a Vitamix for Mother’s Day…so this is helpful! I have a Ninja. It’s fine-ish for smoothies, as long as I blend it forever-and-a-day. And it is not good for anything else. In fact, it stinks. I am sending this blog post to my husband and kids. 😉
Haha, yes! I fully support the direct hints.
Wonderful comparison! Thanks! I have the Vitamix pictured and love it–I got a refurbished one and never have had any trouble with it after 2 years. I highly recommend it. I have enjoyed the smoothie recipes you have shared in the past, and was wondering if you have any other good ones to recommend?
I have a few more smoothie recipes up my sleeve to share soon! Usually I’m just tossing stuff in right and left.
I love these comparisons! Thank you!
Thanks, Crista! I love doing these side by side reviews!
Had a vita mix forever! They have awesome customer service.
Awesome!
Thanks, Mel for such a thorough review. I will be purchasing a Vitamix when my Blendtec dies—but so far it is going like a champ after 8 years. (The blend counter just hit 5,000!) One thing to be said, these high-end blenders prove their value. I would much rather spend more for a tool upfront and have it last for decades than to keep buying cheap disposable appliances. I agree about being very picky about what tools I use in my kitchen. This is why I so appreciate your kitchen buying guides! Any recommendation for a good hand mixer from you or others? Mine died and I need to replace. Thanks again for all you do!
5,000! That’s amazing! So happy that Blendtec is such a workhorse for you!
And yes, I have a hand mixer I love!! It’s the Cuisinart HM-70.
Thanks, Mel! You are such a terrific help! I’m off to purchase. Happy Mother’s Day to me!
After 2 burned out Blendtecs I switched to a Vitamix and will never go back. The Costco manager said it best…’The blendtecs always get returned and the Vitamix just don’t!’
Interesting feedback!
I have owned the same Vitamix for SEVEN YEARS and barely replaced the blender jar this year. That might not not be impressive, except for the fact that I use my Vitamix EVERY. SINGLE. DAY. to make breakfast smoothies with frozen fruit, dried fruit, carrots, nuts, ice–all ingredients that are hard on most blenders. And THAT might not be impressive, except for the fact that this is a very old Vitamix 5000 that I bought USED AT A THRIFT STORE for $30. I don’t know who got rid of this baby, but I’m so glad they did! I am a lifetime Vitamix customer. When and if this one ever burns out, I’ma shell out full price to buy a new one!
What?? $30? That’s amazing!! What was that person thinking?
I am starting on year five with my Vitamix. I had to have the container replaced due to the gears, etc. wearing out, but it was replaced FREE OF Charge! I use it every day for my morning Kefir smoothie. Great blog subject Mel!
So awesome the jar container was replaced for free!
I have a vitamix and I love it. I recommend buying it at Costco if you can because of their liberal return policies. In the 12 years I’ve owned one, twice it has smelled a little funny when running and I’ve exchanged it there for a new one, always for another model. Once I tried a Blendtec when Costco had it, just to see if it would be better, and I have to say that the vitamix won.
On a side note, I do have a heavy duty nutri bullet I bought off eBay for next to nothing that I use for a single smoothie or very small items on nearly a daily basis. I find it blends just as well as the vitamix but is much smaller and lighter. If I’m making more than one smoothie though, puréeing soup, anything larger, I always use my vitamix.
I agree about the Costco return policies! Pretty stellar. I will say that some companies (like Kitchenaid) make special models just for Costco and they aren’t always compatible with the other attachments. I guess Kitchenaid is the main one I’m thinking of, but I think the blenders they carry at Costco are pretty standard! It’s a great place to look for sure.
Great post, Mel! I am a personal Vitamix fan. Over 10 years strong! But then I think the bottom line for people is…the winner is the one you actually end up using! 🙂
PS. Love that they redesigned the vitamix so it fits under cabinets now…one of these days I’ll upgrade!
Yes, such a great point! The best blender is the one you use!
I have had a Vitamix three years after breaking 3 other blenders my husband bought it for me. We use it almost daily for smoothies and I love it!!!! So fast and easy and smooth and I haven’t broke it. My brother and sister now have them too. 🙂
So happy you finally found a blender that you love!
*grabs a bowl of popcorn and watches heated debate ensue I have a Blendtec and love it! It gets used almost daily and is a workhorse in the kitchen. I’ve had it 6+ years with no problems. On a sidenote, does anyone remember the Blendtec vs. Vitamix lawsuit a while back?
Haha, so far the debate has thankfully been friendly! I love reading all these comments and seeing which blender people love. I’m glad you love your trusty Blendtec!
Hi Mel! Thanks for the thorough review. I just got my first high-powered blender, a Vitamix, and I’m in love! What do you mean by twisting the bottom of the driveshaft?
I’ll add a picture to the post once I get home (sitting in the dermatologist’s office right now).