Whether you’re at your local Target or shopping online, there are plenty of options for you to choose from when shopping for a blender. Here are some tips to help you out.
Things To Consider
Personal and immersion blenders are much smaller compared to other types.
Full-sized blenders that are 17 inches in height or lower can be easier to keep on countertops.
Picking The Right Model
Conventional
Low intensity blending for making smoothies and milkshakes. Prices range from $50 to $160.
High-Performance
Powerful countertop machines that can blend virtually any ingredient. Some can be used to make soups and ice-creams. Prices range from $300 to $700.
Personal
Ideal for people on the go. Blender container doubles as a travel cup. Creates single servings. Prices range from $20 to $100.
Immersion
Does not serve the full function of a countertop blender, but works to further process food by submerging the head into the mix.
Features To Look For
Controls
Touch pads are easy to clean but can be hard to press, buttons can accumulate filth around crevices, dials require extensive turning for functions at the end of the wheel, flip switches can limit functionality.
Container
Wide mouth containers are easier to load with ingredients. Glass can break or crack easier, but plastic can develop odors and stains.
Speed
Conventional blenders have three speeds, but some have as many as 13. Some blenders have pre-loaded settings for specific concoctions, and many feature a pulse setting for a custom blend.
Power
Usually range from 300 to 1,000 watts. Container shape and blade arrangement can affect effectiveness, sometimes dampening power.
Best Brands
Black and Decker
Low to middle price range blenders widely available at big-box retailers.
Blendtec
Premium high performance blenders that range anywhere between $400 and $700.
4. Cuisinart
Manufactures mid-range blenders that are available at major department stores and online retailers.
Ninja
Popular thanks to their infomertials. Manufactures blenders in the low and mid range at $60 to $100.
Breville
High end immersion and countertop blenders ranging from $200 to $400.