Blenders
Best Blenders for Smoothies and More
5 picks compared
8 min read
ProductPickly is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. It never changes our picks.
The short answerOur top pick is the Vitamix E310 Explorian. It delivers powerful blending, easy cleanup, and a 5-year warranty. For budget, the Ninja BN701 is excellent. For personal use, the NutriBullet Pro 900 is a great choice.
?How we pickedWe compare published specifications, safety certifications and thousands of verified owner reviews, and we do not physically test every unit. Read the full process in our review methodology.
Vitamix E310 Explorian
★★★★★ 4.7 / 5 Best overall
The Vitamix E310 Explorian is a powerful full-size blender with a 2.0 HP motor and aircraft-grade stainless steel blades. It easily blends tough ingredients like frozen fruit and leafy greens into silky smoothies. The 48-ounce container is perfect for family-sized batches.
Capacity 48 ozMotor 2.0 HPWarranty 5 years
- Exceptional blending power
- Easy to clean with self-cleaning cycle
- Durable build and long warranty
- Higher price point
- No preset programs
Best for: Smoothies, soups, nut butters, and frozen treats
Buy it if: Home cooks who want a versatile, long-lasting blender
Skip it if: Those on a tight budget or needing single-serve cups
Alternative to consider: Blendtec Classic 575
Blendtec Classic 575
★★★★★ 4.6 / 5 Best high-performance
The Blendtec Classic 575 features a 1,560 watt motor and patented blade design that pulverizes ice and fibrous greens. Its 6 pre-programmed cycles make blending effortless. The 75-ounce jar is large enough for big batches.
Capacity 75 ozMotor 1,560 wattsWarranty 7 years
- Powerful motor with smart cycles
- Large capacity jar
- Long warranty
Best for: Heavy-duty blending, large batches
Buy it if: Smoothie enthusiasts and families
Skip it if: Those who prefer quiet operation or smaller footprint
Alternative to consider: Vitamix E310
Ninja BN701 Professional Plus
★★★★★ 4.5 / 5 Best budget full-size
The Ninja BN701 offers 1,400 watts of power and Auto-iQ technology for one-touch blending. Its 72-ounce pitcher handles large smoothies and frozen drinks. The 4-blade system crushes ice with ease.
Capacity 72 ozMotor 1,400 wattsWarranty 1 year
- Affordable price
- Large capacity
- Easy to use presets
- Not as durable as premium brands
- Can leak if overfilled
Best for: Budget-conscious buyers, large families
Buy it if: Anyone wanting a capable blender without high cost
Skip it if: Those needing heavy-duty daily use or long warranty
Alternative to consider: Oster Pro 1200
NutriBullet Pro 900
★★★★★ 4.4 / 5 Best personal blender
The NutriBullet Pro 900 is a compact personal blender with a 900 watt motor that pulverizes fruits and veggies. It comes with 32-ounce and 24-ounce cups and flip-top lids for on-the-go. Simple twist-and-blend operation.
Capacity 32 oz + 24 ozMotor 900 wattsWarranty 1 year
- Compact and portable
- Easy to clean
- Good for single servings
- Not for hot liquids
- Smaller capacity
Best for: Single-serve smoothies and shakes
Buy it if: Individuals or commuters
Skip it if: Families or those blending for multiple people
Alternative to consider: Ninja Fit
Oster Pro 1200
★★★★★ 4.3 / 5 Best value
The Oster Pro 1200 features a 1,200 watt motor and Dual Direction Blade technology for thorough blending. Its 6-cup Boroclass glass jar is durable and dishwasher safe. Includes a 7-speed dial and pulse function.
Capacity 6 cupsMotor 1,200 wattsWarranty 2 years
- Glass jar is sturdy and stain-resistant
- Good power for the price
- Easy to operate
- Heavy jar
- Not as powerful as premium models
Best for: Everyday blending on a budget
Buy it if: Home cooks who want a reliable mid-range blender
Skip it if: Those needing high-performance or personal cups
Alternative to consider: Ninja BN701
Our editorial team compared specifications, buyer feedback and key decision factors to rank the best blenders for smoothies and more. Whether you need a high-performance machine for daily green smoothies or a budget-friendly option for occasional use, we have you covered.
Buying Guide: What to Look for in a Blender
Motor power is the most important factor. A 1,000 watt motor or higher ensures smooth blending of frozen fruit and ice. Look for stainless steel blades that resist dulling. Container material matters: glass is heavy but durable, while plastic is lighter and less prone to breaking. Capacity should match your household size. A 48 to 64 ounce pitcher works for families, while 24 to 32 ounce cups suit individuals.
Ease of cleaning is another consideration. Many blenders have a self-cleaning cycle. Dishwasher safe parts save time. Warranty length indicates durability. Vitamix and Blendtec offer 5 to 7 year warranties, while budget brands often have 1 to 2 years.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Buying a Blender
One mistake is ignoring motor power. A low wattage blender may struggle with ice or fibrous greens. Another error is choosing a blender without considering noise level. High performance models can be loud. Also, check if the blender can handle hot liquids if you plan to make soups. Finally, don't overlook the importance of a good warranty. A longer warranty often means better build quality.
Another common mistake is buying a blender with too small a capacity for your needs. If you often blend for multiple people, a 48 ounce or larger pitcher is essential. For single users, a personal blender is sufficient. Also, avoid blenders with complicated controls if you prefer simplicity. Preset programs can be helpful but are not necessary.
Questions people ask
What is the best blender for smoothies?
The Vitamix E310 Explorian is the best blender for smoothies due to its powerful motor and ability to blend frozen fruit and greens into a silky texture. It also offers easy cleanup and a long warranty.
Is a personal blender worth it?
Yes, personal blenders like the NutriBullet Pro 900 are great for single servings and portability. They are compact, easy to clean, and ideal for quick smoothies or protein shakes.
What is the difference between Vitamix and Blendtec?
Both are high-performance blenders. Vitamix uses a wider blade and container design for thicker blends, while Blendtec uses a square jar and pre-programmed cycles. Vitamix often has a lower price point with similar power.
Can I put hot liquids in a blender?
Only blenders specifically designed for hot liquids, like Vitamix, can handle hot soups. Personal blenders like the NutriBullet are not recommended for hot ingredients due to pressure buildup.
Which blender is best for crushing ice?
The Blendtec Classic 575 and Vitamix E310 both crush ice easily. Blendtec's pre-programmed cycles make it simple, while Vitamix offers manual control for consistent results.
The bottom lineSo which one?
After comparing specifications, buyer feedback, and key decision factors, the Vitamix E310 Explorian is our top pick for its power, durability, and versatility. For budget buyers, the Ninja BN701 offers great value. Personal blender fans should choose the NutriBullet Pro 900.
