How to Choose a Blender

A blender can make smoothies, soups, sauces, and crushed ice, but different designs suit different jobs. Start by thinking about what you will make most often and how much counter and cabinet space you have.

Types of blenders

• Countertop blenders have a large jar on a motor base. They handle bigger batches and are the usual choice for smoothies, soups, and sauces.
• Personal blenders use a single-serve cup that often doubles as a travel bottle. They are compact, but make smaller amounts.
• Immersion (stick) blenders go into the pot or bowl. They are handy for blending soup in the pan and for small jobs, and they store easily.

The jar

• Glass jars resist scratches and stains but are heavy and can break.
• Plastic jars are lighter and less likely to break, but can scratch or hold odors over time.
• Stainless steel jars are durable, though you cannot see the contents.

Check the jar’s capacity against how much you usually blend, and make sure the lid fits securely.

Motor and blades

A higher-powered motor can help with tough ingredients such as frozen fruit or ice, but wattage alone does not tell you how well a blender performs. Blade design, jar shape, and how the parts work together all matter. Read what the manufacturer says the blender is designed to handle.

Controls

Simple models have a few speeds and a pulse button. Others add presets for smoothies, ice, or soup. Presets are convenient, but manual speed control is enough for most recipes, so choose the interface you will find easiest.

Noise, safety, and cleaning

Blenders can be loud, especially at high speed. Look for a lid that locks, and follow the manufacturer’s guidance about blending hot liquids, since steam can build up. For cleaning, check whether the jar and blade assembly can go in the dishwasher, and whether the blades come apart for washing.

Storage and counter space

Measure the height of the blender with its jar on the base against the space under your cabinets, and think about where the cord and any extra cups will go.

Specifications and features change between models, so confirm the details with the retailer before you buy.