You have been thinking about it for a while and now you’re finally sure. You are going to bite the bullet and buy a Vitamix! The only problem now is figuring out which one to buy. Seriously. Buying a Vitamix can be tricky. There are more than a dozen options to choose from, ranging from streamlined classics to feature-rich systems with touchscreen controls.

The most important thing to know, however, is that all full-size Vitamix blenders can make smoothies, soups, dips, frozen desserts, and drinks. The question is whether (and how much) you are willing to pay for extra features.

In this post, I compiled a list of the best Vitamix blenders with all their pros and cons , so you can find the best Vitamix blender for you.

In case you’re not interested in reading the entire review and just want to know which Vitamix blender is best for whom, here is a brief summary:

• Best you can get (the most advanced with the newest technology): A3500
• Best you can get without new technology: Pro 750
• Best on a budget: E310 
• Best value: recon V1200
• Best rated: 5200

 

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Which Vitamix to Buy

Prior to selecting a specific Vitamix model, it’s useful to understand how Vitamix categorizes its machines. All Vitamix blenders fall into 3 lines: Legacy, Smart System, and Explorian.

• Legacy blenders are the original tried-and-true machines that made the company’s reputation (the very first Vitamix blender was released in 1937). They are known for their premium performance, durability, and a traditional design style. All Legacy models have a manual interface with switches and knobs (apart from the Pro 780 that has a touchscreen interface) and come with a 7-year warranty.
• Smart System blenders are the most advanced Vitamix models (released in 2016). They feature the latest technology, maximum functionality, and a modern sleek design. All Smart System models have a digital interface with either manual switches or electronic touchscreen and come with a 10-year warranty.
• Explorian blenders are entry-level Vitamix models at affordable price (released in 2017). They are a Vitamix’s response to the pressure from competitors making similarly powerful blenders at a fraction of the Vitamix’s cost. All Explorian models have a manual interface with only simple controls and come with a 5-year warranty.

Here is a simple chart showcasing which Vitamix models fall into which product line:

So, which line of blenders is the best?

There are several reasons why I think that the Smart System blenders are the way to go – powerful performance, smart features, modern design, and impressive warranty.

Perhaps most importantly, when you buy a Smart System blender, you are buying into the future of Vitamix. Some of the newest Vitamix containers and attachments, including the 8-oz blending bowl and the 96-oz food processor attachment, are only compatible with the Smart System blenders and cannot be used on Legacy or Explorian blenders. 

Now that you know the differences between the three product lines, let’s explore some of the best Vitamix models.

Best Vitamix Blender You Can Get

The A3500 is hands down the best Vitamix blender you can get. If you are all about the latest and greatest, this blender is for you.

If you’d like a to see the A3500 in action, watch the video below.

PROS

• Power: with a 2.2-horsepower motor, which equates to a whopping 1,440 watts, the A3500 is one of the most powerful high-speed blenders on the market.
• Features: out of all Vitamix blenders, the A3500 comes with the most features – a touchscreen with 5 preset programs, a variable 10-speed dial, a pulse button, a digital timer (count up), and a programmable timer (count down). The program settings ensure a walk-away convenience while the speed dial and pulse button let you manually fine-tune the texture of any recipe. You can also set a timer to the length of your blend and have the machine turn off automatically.
• Technology: all Smart System blenders come with SELF-DETECT™ technology and wireless connectivity. The SELF-DETECT™ technology enables the blender base to read the size of the container that is in use and adjust the program settings and blending times accordingly. The wireless connectivity enables the blender to pair with the Vitamix’s “Perfect Blend” app, giving you access to 17 extra preset programs and over 500 recipes. The app works on smartphones as well as iPads.
• Compatibility: because of the SELF-DETECT™ technology, the A3500 is compatible with all Vitamix SELF-DETECT™ containers and attachments.
• Noise: the A3500 (in metal finish) is the quietest of all non-commercial Vitamix blenders, blending at 84 decibels at maximum speed. This noise level allows for maintaining a conversation (with a slightly raised voice) when the blender is in use.
• Color options: the A3500 has most color options to choose from – black, white, red, copper metal, black stainless steel metal, and brushed stainless metal.
• Warranty: the A3500 comes with a full 10-year warranty, which is the longest warranty Vitamix offers.

CONS

• Price: the biggest disadvantage of the A3500 is the price. A3500 sits at the end of the price spectrum for non-commercial blenders. Sure, it is the top-of-the-line model from the Ascent Series, but if cost is important to you, you may want to consider one of the more affordable Vitamix models or buy a reconditioned model.
• Container size: all Smart System Vitamix blenders come with a low-profile 64-oz container, which doesn’t handle single servings of food well. This is not a problem if you’re making smoothies for two or preparing meals for four. But if you are planning on using the blender primarily for single servings, you will need an additional container.

Best Vitamix Blender without New Technology

If the A3500 is the best Smart System Vitamix blender, the Pro 750 is the best Legacy Vitamix blender. The Pro 750 shares a lot of similarities with the A3500 but lacks digital technology, including a touchscreen, a digital timer, SELF-DETECT™ capability, and wireless connectivity.

PROS

• Power: all Vitamix blenders are extremely powerful, featuring either a 2 HP motor or a 2.2 HP motor. The Pro 750 was the first Vitamix blender that introduced a 2.2 HP motor.
• Features: the Pro 750 has manual controls including 5 preset programs, a variable 10-speed dial, and a pulse switch. Currently there is only one other Vitamix model that offers so many preset programs – the A3500.
• Noise: regardless of the finish – metal (discontinued in August 2019) or plastic – the Pro 750 is one of the quietest Vitamix models and the quietest out of Legacy models, blending at 88 dB at maximum speed.
• Warranty: the Pro 750 comes with a full 7-year warranty.

CONS

• Compatibility: because the Pro 750 is a Legacy model, it doesn’t come with SELF-DETECT™ Technology or wireless connectivity. Therefore, it is also not compatible with any of the Vitamix SELF-DETECT™ containers.
• Container size: all Legacy blenders with a 2.2. HP motor come with a low-profile 64-oz container, which doesn’t handle single servings of food well. So, if you are planning on using the blender primarily for single servings, you will need an additional container.

Best Value Vitamix Blender

The reconditioned V1200 is the most budget-friendly Smart System blender. It’s part of the Venturist series, which was originally manufactured exclusively for Costco store. For this reason, Vitamix sells directly only a reconditioned version of this model.

The V1200 is essentially a hybrid model. It has Smart System (Ascent) features – the same dial and switches as the A2300 and a similar timer function as the A3300 – but Legacy (G series) build and design.

PROS

• Power: like all Smart System blenders, the V1200 has a 2.2 HP motor, delivering high-powered results.
• Features: the V1200 comes with a variable 10-speed dial, a pulse button, a digital timer (count up), and a programmable timer (count down).
• Technology: the V1200 is a part of the Venturist series, which, just like the Ascent series, falls into the Smart System line. That is, the blender recognizes which SELF-DETECT™ container is on the base and adjusts blending settings accordingly, and it also pairs with the Vitamix’s “Perfect Blend” app.
• Compatibility: because of the SELF-DETECT™ technology, the V1200 is compatible with all Vitamix SELF-DETECT™ containers and attachments.
• Extra accessories: being a former Costco exclusive, the V1200 comes with extra accessories. Aside from the essentials, like the tamper, the V1200 also comes with a 20-oz blending cup.
• Warranty: the V1200 comes with a full 10-year warranty.
• Price: the V1200 costs the same as the most basic Ascent model – the A2300. The advantage of the A2300 is that it is new and more modern looking. The advantage of the V1200 is that it has a programmable timer and comes with a 20-oz kit. Vitamix also often runs promotions on the V1200 model, making it even a better deal.

CONS

• Reconditioned model: since this model was originally manufactured exclusively for Costco, Vitamix sells directly only a reconditioned version of this model.
• Container size: all Smart System Vitamix blenders come with a low-profile 64-oz container, which doesn’t handle single servings of food well. So, if you are planning on using the blender primarily for single servings, you will need an additional container.

Best Vitamix Blender on a Budget

The E310 is the most budget-friendly entry-level blender Vitamix blender. It has the typical Vitamix blender’s power and functionality but a simple minimalist look with a smaller (48-oz) container.

PROS

• Power: the E310 comes with a 2 HP motor, which is slightly less powerful than most other Vitamix blenders. However, the difference between a 2 HP motor and a 2.2 HP motor is practically unrecognizable in day-to-day blending.
• Features: the E310 has a manual interface with only simple controls – a pulse switch and a variable 10-speed dial (no preset programs or a secondary on/off switch). It is one of the most basic Vitamix models but blends just as well as any other Vitamix machine.
• Price: with the exception of a few reconditioned Vitamix models, the E310 is the best priced Vitamix blender on the market.

CONS

• Compatibility: because the E310 isn’t a Smart System blender, it isn’t  equipped with SELF-DETECT™ Technology or wireless connectivity. Therefore, it is also not compatible with any of the SELF-DETECT containers. On the other hand, it can be used with Vitamix containers going back to the mid 90s.
• Noise: the E310 is one of the loudest Vitamix blenders, going all the way up to 98 dB at maximum speed. 
• Warranty: compared to other new Vitamix blenders, a 5-year warranty is relatively short. However, compared to other brands, 5 years is amazing.

Best Rated Vitamix Blender

The 5200 is one of the most popular high-end blenders even though Vitamix has come out with more than 20 new models since 2007 when it was first released. The Wirecutter and American’s Test Kitchen both maintain that the 5200, is the best blender you can buy.

PROS

• Power: all Legacy (Classic) Vitamix blenders come with a 2 HP motor, drawing 1380 watts. The reason for a 2 HP motor (as opposed to a 2.2 HP motor) is a 3-inch blade in the 64-oz tall containers (as opposed to a 4-inch blade in the 64-oz low-profile container).
• Features: just like the E310, the 5200 has just a few simple controls – a high/low switch and a variable 10-speed dial. The dial has an RPM range of 500 to 37,000 for a maximum control over your blends.
• Container: one of the things I love most about the 5200 is the tall container. Sure, with its height of 20.5″ it might not fit under most kitchen cabinets (standard kitchen cabinets are 18″ tall), but it is the most versatile container Vitamix has ever invented. It handles both small as well as large batches of food with ease.
• Warranty: the 5200 comes with a 7-year warranty.

CONS

• Compatibility: since the 5200 is a Legacy blender, it doesn’t have SELF-DETECT™ Technology or wireless connectivity. Therefore, it is also not compatible with any of the SELF-DETECT™ containers.

Vitamix Comparisons

If you have narrowed down your search for the best Vitamix blender to two models, here is a quick comparison of the most popular Vitamix blenders.

A3500 vs Pro 750

If price is not an issue, get the A3500. The A3500 has a more advanced technology, broader functionality, and longer warranty. Also, if you ever decide to extend the functionality of your blender, with the A3500 you have the option to purchase the 8-oz bowl and the 96-oz food processor attachment.

V1200 vs E310

The reconditioned V1200 is a better pick. It has a more advanced technology, better features, broader functionality – especially with the 20-oz kit – and longer warranty. The V1200 is also less loud than the E310.

Pro 750 vs 5200

Which matters more to you – features or savings? The Pro 750 is more modern, feature-rich and quieter. The 5200 is cheaper. Both are excellent choices, but the Pro 750 is clearly a better blender.

E310 vs 5200

The Vitamix E310 and the 5200 are both solid 2 horsepower machines with practically the same controls. The real difference in these machines is the container design and capacity. The E310 has a short and wide 48-oz container, while the 5200 has a tall and narrow 64-ounce container. My pick would be the 5200 for a couple of reasons – a more versatile container that is capable of making small batches as well as large batches of all kinds of blends and a longer warranty.

New vs Reconditioned Vitamix

Once you have decided which Vitamix blender is the best for you, the next question is whether you should get a new Vitamix blender or a reconditioned model.

If you’re looking to save some money, reconditioned Vitamix blenders are a great option. Vitamix guarantees them to work as well as new machines, the price is discounted by up to 40%, and aside from the print on the box, the machines are practically indistinguishable from new. 

Reconditioned Vitamix blenders are either returned units or demonstration units. Before reselling them, Vitamix inspects each blender and replaces any parts that don’t meet its standards. The process of reconditioning machines is a serious, formalized 17-step process. It includes testing all of the components to ensure that they work, fixing the ones that don’t, and replacing items like the container, lid and tamper, before re-boxing and selling as reconditioned. 

The only downside of reconditioned blenders is that you might need to wait to get the model you want. Vitamix doesn’t build new models to sell as reconditioned. They sell models as they become available. So, if you see a reconditioned Vitamix model you like, don’t wait and buy it.

Q&A for Vitamix Buyers

Is Vitamix Worth It?

What Separates Vitamix from Other Brands?

Vitamix blenders go above and beyond in every aspect. Some of the features that set Vitamix apart are a cool-running motor, metal gear coupling, patented air-craft grade stainless steel blade, and a uniquely designed container. Vitamix also offers an industry-leading 10-year full warranty for their Smart System blenders (Legacy blenders have a 7-year warranty, Explorian blenders have a 5-year warranty). Blendtec – Vitamix’s leading competitor – comes with an 8-year warranty while standard blenders typically offer no longer than a 1-year warranty. 

Is Vitamix Overpriced?

Many Vitamix blenders cost in the range of $500 and up. That’s a lot of money for a small kitchen appliance! However, according to Consumer Reports, Vitamix is a solid buy despite the high price. 

Another way to look at it is that a $100 blender replaced every five years would cost you $20 a year. A $300 refurbished Vitamix blender that will easily last you 15 years will also put you at $20 a year. Of course, you can buy a Vitamix blender at a much higher price tag, but if you don’t mind sacrificing features like pre-set programs and a programmable timer, a more entry-level Vitamix blender will perform just as well.

Features

Should I Get a Vitamix with preset programs?

Vitamix blenders come with zero to five preset programs, including settings for smoothies, hot soups, dips & spreads, frozen desserts, and self-cleaning. They are nice but unnecessary. I personally own two Vitamix blenders with pre-programmed settings – the A3500 and the Pro 750 – and only use the self-cleaning preset. Why?

Essentially, preset programs are just timers. There are no sensors making customized adjustments while the blender is running. There’s no way for a timer to know the volume, temperature, or density of the food that was put into the container.

I would take the saved money by not buying a model with preset programs and invest it in an extra Vitamix container, such as the food processor attachment or the 8-oz bowl. However, if money is not a consideration, then go all out and get the A3500, which is the best of the best.

Should I get a Vitamix with a touchscreen?

Switches vs touchscreen is simply a matter of preference. The functionality is exactly the same.

Personally, I really enjoy using touchscreens and prefer the sleek, more high-tech look of a touchscreen as opposed to physical switches. But I also own an iPhone and an iPad, have a touchscreen GPS in the car, wear an Apple watch … do I miss devices with physical buttons? Hmm, no.

You might be uncomfortable with a touchscreen at first, but the learning curve is shallow. Chances are you are already using devices with a touchscreen daily anyway, so using a Vitamix with touch controls will be a second nature. There is nothing wrong with physical switches though, so if you prefer them, go for it.

Switch controls or touchscreen – both are excellent choices.

Should I get a Vitamix with a timer?

All Smart System blenders have a set digital timer, which displays how long you have been blending. If you’re running a program, the timer displays how much time is left. The A3300 and the A3500 Vitamix blenders have also a programmable timer, which blends your recipes for the time you’ve entered and stop the machine automatically. Put another way, the set digital timer is simply a measuring device whereas the programmable timer is a convenient tool for a walk-away blending. Both are nice to have, but not necessary.

What is the secondary on/off switch for?

All Smart System blenders come with a secondary on/off switch. It is an extra safety feature to make sure the blender doesn’t turn on accidentally.

Personally, I don’t ever leave my Vitamix plugged in when I am not using it, so I don’t find this feature all that useful. But if you like to have your small kitchen appliances always plugged in and have little kids, this feature might come in handy.

Noise

Which is the quietest Vitamix blender?

The Quiet One is by far the quietest of all blenders in the world, blending at 64 decibels at maximum speed. It is a commercial blender though, so an overkill for personal use. The quietest out of all non-commercial blenders are the A3500 and the A3300 in metal finishes, blending at 84 decibels at maximum speed).  

Do metal finishes make any difference?

Yes. Blenders with true metal finishes (brushed stainless, black stainless, graphite metal, copper) block the sound of the motor better than plastic ones. That being said, the A3500 and the A3300 even in plastic shells are still the quietest Vitamix models.

Containers

What size of Vitamix container should I get?

My recommendation is to not pick a blender for your container. It’s more important to find a blender that fits your needs rather than pick the perfect container. You can always get an additional container later.

However, if you really want to know which container is my favorite, it is the tall 64-oz container. It has a large capacity yet it’s capable of making single servings. It’s the most versatile out of all Vitamix containers. Unfortunately, the 64-oz tall container is only compatible with the Legacy Classic blenders. So, unless you really want a Legacy model, your blender will either come with the 64-oz (low-profile) container (most Vitamix blenders) or the 48-oz container (E310).

Do I need a secondary container?

The short answer is that the container that comes with your machine (all Vitamix blenders come with a container), can do all essential blender tasks. But since some containers specialize in certain tasks and have different quantity limitations, you might be considering a secondary container.

This is particularly true if you only have the 64-oz low-profile container and plan on making small batches of certain blends. Liquid blends, such as smoothies or soups are not an issue but thick blends, such as hummus or ice cream, are a bit more problematic. This is because thick blends require the use of a tamper, and so there needs to be enough food in the blender for the tamper to reach the food. For small batches of thick blends, my recommendation would be to get the 48-oz container (for Smart System blenders) or the 32-oz container (for Legacy blenders). For small batches of dressings or baby food, the 8-oz bowl would be ideal.

Do I need a dry container?

Unless you’re planning on grinding A LOT, the Vitamix dry container isn’t necessary. The theory behind the dry container is it helps to grind it more like a grain mill. In the dry container, ingredients are being pushed up the sides and away from the blade to prevent material packing at the bottom of the container. In the wet container, on the other hand, ingredients are being pulled down into the blade to help the liquefying process. 

However, that doesn’t mean that you can’t make flour, breadcrumbs, or flaxseed meal in a wet container. I have made all of the aforementioned in a wet container with no issues.

Are all containers compatible with all blenders?

Unfortunately, no. Smart System blenders are only compatible with Smart System (SELF-DETECT™) containers and vice versa. Legacy and Explorian blenders are only compatible with Legacy and Explorian containers.

Cleaning

Are Vitamix containers dishwasher-safe?

Only Smart System (SELF-DETECT™) containers are dishwasher-safe. However, to extend the life of your blender, I recommend using the self-cleaning cycle or washing the blender container by hand. First of all, if you put the container in the dishwasher, it’s most likely going to sit there for a while, resulting in a stained and/or cloudy container. Second, the dishwasher can put stress on the container, blade, and bearings. If you’re set on using the dishwasher anyway, at least strictly adhere to the instruction about temperatures, detergents, and racks to be used.

Is Vitamix easy to clean?

All Vitamix models are easy to clean because the blade is fixed in the container. There is no gasket, rubber ring, or any other removable components. To clean your Vitamix container, fill it halfway with warm water, add a few drops of dish soap, and blend on high speed for 30-60 seconds. If your Vitamix comes with a cleaning cycle, you can run the automatic cycle instead.

As far as the blender base goes, touchscreens are easier to clean than raised switches and knobs. 

Warranty & Returns

What if I am not happy with my Vitamix?

Vitamix has a 30-day return policy on all orders. So, if you aren’t fully satisfied with the performance of your blender, you can return it within 30 days for a full refund. Vitamix will even pay for return shipping if you are in the US or Canada.

You can also do a partial return or exchange your blender for a different one.

What does the warranty cover?

Vitamix stands fully behind its products and offers a generous warranty that covers all parts, labor, and shipping. However, only 1% of Vitamix blenders ever get sent in for service, so it is unlikely you’ll ever need it.

I have personally worked with more than a dozen Vitamix blenders and never experienced any issues.

 

This post was created in partnership with Vitamix (a brand I’ve loved and used for years) and contains affiliate links. All thoughts and opinions are my own.