Best Blenders of 2024: High-Performance Picks for Smoothies and Beyond

A high-quality blender is surprisingly versatile — capable of making smoothies, hot soups, nut butters, frozen desserts, cocktails, and even grinding grains. The difference between a $50 and $500 blender is more significant than almost any other kitchen appliance.

Performance Testing

We tested each blender on seven tasks: green smoothies, frozen fruit smoothies, nut butter, hot soup, ice crushing, whole grain grinding, and sauce making. Power, noise, and cleanup were also evaluated.

Best Blenders Ranked

#1 Vitamix 5200 — Best Overall

The Vitamix 5200 has been the gold standard for over two decades. Its 2-peak HP motor can blend anything from kale to ice to whole nuts, and it generates enough friction heat to make steaming soup directly in the jar.

• 2-peak HP motor
• Variable speed control + pulse
• Creates frictional heat for hot soups
• Self-cleaning in 30 seconds
• 7-year warranty

#2 Vitamix A3500 Ascent — Best Smart Blender

Vitamix's smart model adds a touchscreen interface, self-detect container recognition, and wireless connectivity for guided blending programs — all in a quieter housing than older models.

#3 Ninja Professional Plus — Best Budget Performance

At a third of the Vitamix's price, the Ninja Professional Plus handles 90% of blending tasks admirably. Its Auto-iQ programs make it exceptionally easy to use.

Is a Vitamix Worth the Price?

If you use your blender more than 3-4 times per week, a Vitamix is absolutely worth the investment. The 7-10 year warranty, exceptional results, and versatility make it cost-effective over the long term.