The 7 Best Blenders Tested & Reviewed

Originally meant for basic prep work, countertop blenders have come a long way. They now serve as reliable companions for creating barista-style lattes, refreshing frozen drinks, and rich nut spreads, all within the comfort of your own kitchen.

That said, the choices vary widely in quality. Some choke on kale. Others spin yet lumps still sneak in. Therefore, we gathered 52 of the most popular blenders on the market, and put them to the test. In the end, we chose the NutriBullet Full-Size Blender as the best blender to buy, considering its strong build, great performance, and affordable price. If you’re looking to upgrade, the Vitamix 5200 is our premium pick, thanks to its professional-grade build and consistently top-tier performance.

Everything We Recommend

Nutribullet Blender Combo 1200W

Best to Buy

Despite being a mid-priced blender, the NutriBullet Combo really impresses us with its decent build quality and consistently strong performance. It excels with almost any recipe, even when they’re fairly thick, so you get impressive capabilities without spending big for a high-end blender.

Ninja SS151 TWISTi Blender

Best Ninja

Among the high-rated Ninja models we tested, including the Ninja Compact Kitchen System and Ninja Professional Plus, this TWISTi performed the best, even with its lower price point. Its versatility is another big plus. With up to three different-sized containers, you can enjoy both large-batch blending and single-serve convenience, without the storage concerns often tied to larger blender systems.

Vitamix Explorian E310 Blender

Best Performance

The Vitamix E310 sets a high bar for power in our lineup. You’ll pay more for it, but what you get in return are excellent all-around performance, high-quality results, and professional-grade construction. Sure enough, this premium blender will give you the versatility and durability most standard blenders can’t reach.

Vitamix 5200 Professional Blender

Upgrade Pick

A heavy-duty blender, the Vitamix 5200 delivers E310-level versatility, but with stronger performance in some areas. It also comes with a larger container (64-oz), which makes it a better fit for larger households or anyone who blends in bigger batches. Expect restaurant-grade results right at home, and the 5200 gives back more than what you pay for.

Oster Pro 1200 Blender

Best Small

The Oster Pro is the most space-saving blender in our list. It’s well-suited for small kitchens or spaces with limited storage. If you're just blending for one or two, this is also a practical choice. Packed with a 1200-watt motor, the blender performs best with light to moderately thick mixtures, meaning you will get the smoothest results for most simple, daily blends. Plus, its materials are fairly basic, but it does not feel flimsy or cheaply made at all.

Braun MultiQuick 5 Blender

Best Immersion

The Braun MultiQuick 5 is our all-time favorite. It blends quickly, feels well-built, and holds up well under frequent, heavy blending. It even outperforms some countertop models in certain tasks. You can whip up silky soups, nut milks, and sauces in no time, and it’s capable of blending frozen ingredients as well. Anyone in need of a versatile, budget-friendly hand blender will find it satisfies all the demands.

NutriBullet Pro 900W Personal Blender

Best Personal

The NutriBullet Pro delivers exactly what busy individuals need without any unnecessary complexity. It's strong enough to handle your toughest ingredients, sized just right for personal use, and so quick that it's a lifesaver for your rushed morning. Despite its smaller footprint, it blends with the same speed, power, and consistency as traditional full-sized blenders.

How We Test

Our testing methods mimic everyday kitchen tasks. Though different blender types have unique testing criteria, consistency is maintained within each category for direct product comparisons.

For Full-sized Blenders, tests focus on performance, durability, and usability in processing large volumes.

• Smoothie: We blend a mix of kale, apple, pineapple, banana, and milk. The test concludes either when a smooth, homogeneous texture is achieved, or upon reaching the 4-minute mark.
• Frozen Fruit Smoothie: Our testing smoothie is a combination of mango, strawberry, pineapple, and plain milk. We blend at the highest speed or a "Frozen Smoothie" mode. The aim is to achieve an ice cream-like texture within a maximum of five minutes.
• Additional tests include Almond Butter, Protein Shake and Crushed Ice Cubes to offer insights into a blender's versatility, especially for those keen on homemade nut-based spreads, fitness beverages and icy concoctions.

In our design’s evaluation, we examine the blender’s blade strength, overall build quality, and the functionality of the control panel. We also consider hands-free blending, noise levels during operation, ease of assembly, and cleanability post-blend. 

Check out How Shouldit Tests and Scores Full-sized Blenders for more information.

For immersion blenders, we conducted standard tasks like Puréed Hot Soup, Frozen Fruit Smoothies, Mayonnaise, Almond Milk, and Whipped Egg-White.

Personal Blenders, on the other hand, were evaluated based on their suitability for on-the-go lifestyles, with Protein Shakes, Frozen Fruit Smoothies, Fibrous Greens, and Crushed Ice Cubes tests.

How We Choose

Recommendations are based upon the testing results and their associated scores. In the graph below, you can see how each model measured up across blending power, design features, and user experience. We also take into account affordability, customer satisfaction, and brand reputation to make sure our recommendations offer strong long-term value.

Nutribullet Blender Combo 1200W

Best to Buy

Despite being a mid-priced blender, the NutriBullet Combo really impresses us with its decent build quality and consistently strong performance. It excels with almost any recipe, even when they’re fairly thick, so you get impressive capabilities without spending big for a high-end blender.

$124.28

(Price at time of publish)

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Across all of our tests, every drink came together in just 1–2 minutes, whether it was a green smoothie, a protein shake, or a frozen blend. On top of that, the mixtures were all churned out silky-smooth with a rich, creamy texture throughout. That’s pretty impressive given the ingredients we used (dried berries, almonds, oats, leafy greens, and icy fruit), which are often tough enough to be handled well by only higher-tier blenders.

And thanks to the included to-go cups, it’s also a great choice for those with busy, active schedules. You can blend a smoothie and head straight to work, the gym, or school, all in one cup. Just keep in mind it isn’t built for very thick, paste-like spreads such as almond butter. Actually, it will get the almonds to the “butter” stage, but the result isn't fully smooth or creamy. And to get there, you may spend a considerable amount of time.

Even so, we were still very impressed by its usability. During most of the tests, we didn’t have to stop repeatedly or guess whether things were mixing properly. The NutriBullet Pro simply pulled everything down into the blades and did the work on its own. It even could crush ice into a fluffy texture quickly and easily, without sounding strained or needing any help from us. Plus, it stayed steady on the counter and didn’t wobble around while blending.

Design-wise, the blender keeps a small footprint and fits under most kitchen cabinets. It pairs durable stainless-steel blades with a lightweight, BPA-free plastic container, which attaches firmly to the base and holds up to daily use pretty well. Furthermore, the controls are intuitive, with buttons that feel satisfyingly responsive. 

When we tested it with ice and water, it hit around 100 dB, close to the noise of a motorcycle engine, yet isn’t as sharp or annoying. It’s also quite easy to clean, especially when the components are dishwasher-safe.

Overall, the NutriBullet Combo is one of the most worthwhile investments on the market, and we’d recommend it for casual home cooks, gym-goers, and anyone who wants quick, convenient blends.

Read our Nutribullet Blender Combo 1200W in-depth review

Ninja SS151 TWISTi Blender

Best Ninja

Among the high-rated Ninja models we tested, including the Ninja Compact Kitchen System and Ninja Professional Plus, this TWISTi performed the best, even with its lower price point. Its versatility is another big plus. With up to three different-sized containers, you can enjoy both large-batch blending and single-serve convenience, without the storage concerns often tied to larger blender systems.

$139

(Price at time of publish)

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To reach the upper tier of our rankings, a blender has to produce close to flawless results in every challenge. The Ninja TWISTi did exactly that. It also spins super fast, topping out at around 20,000 RPM, so our test runs didn’t take long. But what we appreciated most was how easy the process was. 

Most of the time, you can just turn it on and let it do its thing. If the mixture gets thick, you can use the built-in tamper to smooth out the blend. Since the tamper is integrated into the main lid, adjusting it is quick and easy. We also like the one-minute auto shutoff. It’s great when you’re busy and not paying close attention. 

Additionally, there are up to five smart presets, and they make the process more hands off, which comes in handy when you’re multitasking in the kitchen. The reason is simple. The preset cycles between quick bursts of power and brief pauses to prevent ingredients from sticking to the sides, reduces air pockets, and keeps everything moving evenly. We tested the Frozen preset specifically with icy fruit chunks, and it got the blend very close to what we wanted. 

At about 13.4 inches tall with the 34-ounce container in place, it also takes up less vertical space than most other blenders on this list. On the construction side, you aren’t getting a premium build, and some parts use mid-grade materials, but they’re sturdy in hand and well-assembled, and as of now, repeated testing hasn't revealed any issues with wear.  And since the blade is designed to pop out easily from the containers, it allows you to clean every corner properly, including the spots that are usually hard to reach.

Just so you know, it’s pretty loud. The tone is fairly high, too. Thankfully, the blending time is short, so the sound fades fast.

At the end of the day, when you look at the overall bundle, strong blending, and all the add-ons, we think the value here is hard to ignore. If you regularly blend for several people, you might prefer something bigger. But for a smaller household, this capacity fits nicely.

Read our Ninja SS151 TWISTi Blender in-depth review

Vitamix Explorian E310 Blender

Best Performance

The Vitamix E310 sets a high bar for power in our lineup. You’ll pay more for it, but what you get in return are excellent all-around performance, high-quality results, and professional-grade construction. Sure enough, this premium blender will give you the versatility and durability most standard blenders can’t reach.

$322.58

(Price at time of publish)

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Another advantage is the price; it costs less than many Vitamix models while still delivering the same pro-level performance. The compact 48-oz container also makes it more suitable for smaller households or space-conscious kitchens. So, in terms of functionality and long-term value, the E310’s the greatest purchase you can make for your kitchen. 

In our five-test run, we didn’t run into any major issues. Leafy greens were turned into a silky blend within seconds, while frozen fruits came out with a perfect ice-cream-like texture. Even denser ingredients like oats and dried fruit, along with almonds and ice, still couldn’t slow it down.

Except for the butter task, we never had to stop moving ingredients around, shake the container, scrape down the sides, or add extra liquid to keep things moving. Everything blended quickly and evenly, which made the whole process feel shockingly convenient. The blending experience is so complete that we can confidently say you won't find a more satisfying one anywhere else.

Structurally, this isn’t a flashy blender, but it looks sleek and modern. The motor base is packed with proper stability, and the BPA-free Tritan container is heat resistant, making hot soup blending safe and manageable. While it cannot go in the dishwasher, cleaning is still easy, thanks to the detachable blade. 

At the same time, the blades are made from a sheet of high-quality stainless steel. They’re stamped into shape, heat treated for extra hardness and wear-resistance, then precisely cut into a four-pronged design. We also found the controls very user-friendly, since the dial and the switches are all highly responsive. And when you are done, the cord can be wrapped and tucked into the base to avoid clutter—a thoughtful feature that isn’t commonly found on many other models.

In short, if you want a long-lasting workhorse that can tackle all kinds of ingredients flawlessly, this Vitamix E310 is the one to get, especially considering its generous 5-year warranty. 

Read our Vitamix Explorian E310 Blender in-depth review

Vitamix 5200 Professional Blender

Upgrade Pick

A heavy-duty blender, the Vitamix 5200 delivers E310-level versatility, but with stronger performance in some areas. It also comes with a larger container (64-oz), which makes it a better fit for larger households or anyone who blends in bigger batches. Expect restaurant-grade results right at home, and the 5200 gives back more than what you pay for.

$474.97

(Price at time of publish)

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In test after test, whatever we tossed into this blender turned out velvety and exceptionally creamy. And just like the E310, most of the work happened hands-free, with the blender running smoothly the whole time. The clear highlight was the almond butter. It reached a smooth, spreadable texture in just 60 seconds, which was the best time in our tests, and nearly six times faster than the Nutribullet Combo. We did need to intervene a little, but that’s common with thick mixtures, and most importantly, the blender never felt like it was struggling. 

The only area where it demanded a little finesse was with full loads of ice. But don’t confuse that with weak performance. The motor itself is more than capable. Because of the container’s tall, narrow design, some cubes may settle beneath the blades, just out of reach. It’s a minor issue, and thankfully, easy to fix. A quick pause and stir between pulses usually gets everything moving again.

As for build quality, it’s made with a shatter-resistant jar, solid stainless steel blades, and a motor base so solid it practically anchors itself. Together, these top-grade components create the most durable blenders you’ll find. Even when pushed hard, it still keeps a steady output without getting too hot. And it can blend for up to six minutes in one go, creating enough blade friction to naturally heat your mixture. The long 7-year warranty makes it an even safer investment.

Besides that, it keeps things simple with a no-fuss dial controlling 10 speed levels, plus two switches for power and the highest speed. However, it’s quite tall (nearly 20 inches with the container), so it may not fit under your standard kitchen cabinet. 

Nevertheless, if space isn’t an issue and you want the best of the best, this Vitamix 5200 won’t let you down. 

Read our Vitamix 5200 Professional Blender in-depth review

Oster Pro 1200 Blender

Best Small

The Oster Pro is the most space-saving blender in our list. It’s well-suited for small kitchens or spaces with limited storage. If you're just blending for one or two, this is also a practical choice. Packed with a 1200-watt motor, the blender performs best with light to moderately thick mixtures, meaning you will get the smoothest results for most simple, daily blends. Plus, its materials are fairly basic, but it does not feel flimsy or cheaply made at all.

$82.85

(Price at time of publish)

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As confirmed by our hands-on testing, its 1,200-watt motor has the power for fibrous greens, raw nuts, frozen fruit smoothies, and protein shakes made with dense, whole ingredients. Sometimes, it doesn't blend as quickly as higher-tier blenders, and can struggle briefly at the beginning, but once it gets going, the results are perfectly acceptable for most households.

It even can crush whole ice, which is more than many low-cost blenders can say. We timed it in our test, and it took only 45 seconds to turn the ice into a light, sugar-like crush. It did require some hands-on help, but the payoff was worth it, since that texture was great for a variety of icy drinks and frozen treats.

Aesthetically, the Oster Pro may look a bit dated to some, but the brushed nickel finish gives it a clean, vintage vibe. The 48-ounce jar is made of thick glass which can feel heavier when pouring or cleaning than plastic. Still, it’s heat-safe and does a better job resisting stains and trapped smells. 

Moreover, the buttons are clearly labeled, the removable blade means you can access every nook, and the base wipes clean with no hassle. That said, a few controls feel unnecessary, with presets that look useful but rarely are.

Read our Oster Pro 1200 Blender in-depth review

Braun MultiQuick 5 Blender

Best Immersion

The Braun MultiQuick 5 is our all-time favorite. It blends quickly, feels well-built, and holds up well under frequent, heavy blending. It even outperforms some countertop models in certain tasks. You can whip up silky soups, nut milks, and sauces in no time, and it’s capable of blending frozen ingredients as well. Anyone in need of a versatile, budget-friendly hand blender will find it satisfies all the demands.

$62.87

(Price at time of publish)

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Braun didn’t pack this hand blender with flashy screens or unnecessary settings. It nailed the essentials. A strong motor, a sharp blending shaft, a whisk attachment, and a cup to get you going. Everything fits neatly in the hand so every motion feels natural and easy to manage. It’s not bulky, not complicated; just grab it, click, and blend.

From the first test, the Braun MultiQuick 5 confirmed it’s more than just a budget pick. Featuring a long, solid stainless-steel shaft, it handled hot soup in deep pots with confidence, finishing the job in a quick 30 seconds. It prepared an icy green smoothie just as well—thick, frosty, and nearly chunk-free in under a minute.

The whisk attachment was incredibly useful too. It allowed us to craft a silky mayonnaise in under 2 minutes. It also turned the blender into a hand mixer, effortlessly achieving stiff peaks while whipping large batches of egg whites. Every result came out clean and consistent.

Plus, we liked how it didn’t splatter, didn’t suction too hard, and didn’t tire our wrists. Everything snaps on and off smoothly, and washing it by hand took less than a minute. You won’t dread using this every day.

Slim and compact, our Braun can be stored in drawers or hung neatly on a hook. The blender’s build, though not featuring the high-end materials seen in costlier models, reflects its price point appropriately. We found some minor external scratches during our testing, but these cosmetic imperfections don’t impair its capability. 

All the included accessories are of moderate quality. Switching attachments is quick and smooth, thanks to the EasyClick button. Buttons are firm, but with a purpose. There’s a clear sense of control with every press, and that’s something many blenders miss.

Read our Braun MultiQuick 5 Blender in-depth review

NutriBullet Pro 900W Personal Blender

Best Personal

The NutriBullet Pro delivers exactly what busy individuals need without any unnecessary complexity. It's strong enough to handle your toughest ingredients, sized just right for personal use, and so quick that it's a lifesaver for your rushed morning. Despite its smaller footprint, it blends with the same speed, power, and consistency as traditional full-sized blenders.

$87.62

(Price at time of publish)

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The NutriBullet Pro turned out to be the most reliable blender in our entire lineup of personal models. When we tossed in fruit, greens, protein powder, even ice, this compact beast didn't flinch. Within seconds, it spun everything into luxuriously creamy textures that rival full-sized blenders. So far, we haven't found a single machine that can crush ice as fluffy as this one. 

In addition to power and performance; the NutriBullet Pro also scores highly on design and durability. The base is weighty enough to stay put, even when working through frozen chunks or dense greens. Nothing rattles or shifts. The finish looks clean and holds up pretty well. Unlike budget options, it doesn’t chip, fade, or scratch easily. The cups are durable despite their light build, and once the lids are locked in, there’s zero spillage to worry about.

Assembling the blender takes seconds. It skips the fluff and gets right to the blend. Simply load your ingredients, twist the blade onto the cup, and press it into the base. It locks in with a satisfying click. From there, your blender runs on pressure and your hands are free. In other words, you can step away, prep something else, or just sip your coffee while it does the work. We found the entire process refreshingly straightforward.

For post-blend cleanup, the cups and lids are top-rack dishwasher safe, but even a quick rinse under the tap usually does the trick. The only part that needs a little extra attention is the underside of the blade. Stuff can get stuck there. Luckily, a narrow brush or bottle cleaner solves that in seconds.

Read our NutriBullet Pro 900W Personal Blender in-depth review

Nearest Competitors

A few quick notes on other blenders we tested:

• Ninja BN701: Though it boasts 1400 watts and a stacked blade setup, the Ninja BN701 didn’t live up to its spec sheet. It’s great for crushing ice and soft fruits, but we found it frustrating with thicker mixes or leafy greens. Better options exist if you're after consistency and hands-free ease.
• Vitamix 5-speed:  While the Vitamix 5-speed delivered remarkable blending capabilities in our test, we decided against designating it as our top pick due to its premium price, which may not be accessible to everyone. Plus, the lack of a whisk attachment made it somewhat less versatile when compared to the Braun MultiQuick-5.
• Ninja QB3001SS Fit: The Ninja Fit and NutriBullet Pro offer similar performance efficiency, but the Ninja QB3001SS Fit is less convenient to use as it lacks hands-free operation feature. To operate it, you must hold the cup in place throughout the blending process, and at times, you might need to shake or stir the contents to ensure even blending.

Our Expertise

Since 2018, Tina and her team at Shouldit have been on a mission to help you find top-performing blenders. What started with a curiosity about how these machines work grew into a passion for testing them in real kitchens. 

Along with Chef Tuyet Pham, Consultant Luna Regina, and Test Lead Lap Vo, Tina has tested over 40+ blenders, ranging from big-name brands to portable models. Their hands-on approach evaluates everything—how well a blender crushes frozen fruit, how smooth it blends, and how it performs over time.

The team's work is shared through their Shouldit Blender Series, where you can get a closer look at each test and the practical insights that follow.

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