Chitika

Friday, July 29, 2011

Blendtec The Professional's Choice 1560-Watt Total Blender - Worth every penny ...

This product is so powerful ... with more horsepower than the Vitamix. The Blendtec motor is so strong it does not need sharp blades like what the Vitamix has. It is so easy to wash ... and with its short height, it easily stores in the countertop. Most important of all, it is very durable. Ours (an older model but with a similar motor) has about 4 years of service in the kitchen and more than 1350 cycles to its credit, blending frozen fruits all the time.

The only advantage Vitamix has over this product is that, while Blendtec has a relief hole on the lid of its container, Blendtec does not come with a plunger to push the fruits down when the blades liquefy the fruits at the bottom being blended while the rest of the fruits at the top hang on to each other in their frozen state. Big deal! I easily solved this problem by buying a big composite spoon from Costco for less than 6 dollars a pair and cut one of them to be used as a plunger.

I think all blenders that are designed to blend frozen stuff should come with a plunger. Frozen foods tend to cling to each other. And no matter how strong the motor of the blender, frozen stuffs that cling to each other tend to get suspended in place by the tapered dimension of the jar and don't get sucked/pulled down in the process of blending. What happens is that the strong and very fast action of the blade only creates a "cave" under the frozen stuffs that are stuck to each other. And the only way to produce a "cave in effect" on the frozen stuffs that are stuck to each other is to push them. On this note, Blendtec should provide a plunger for its blenders.  


Product Features
Color: Red
  •     Multi-purpose countertop blender with commercial-quality 1560-watt motor
  •     6 preprogrammed blending cycles; digital touchpad controls; auto shutoff
  •     2-prong stainless-steel blade spins up to 29,000 rpm; ice-crushing guarantee
  •     32-ounce square blending jar; secure-fitting lid; user guide and recipes included
  •     Measures 12 by 10 by 20 inches; 3-year limited warranty

Technical data
  •     Power output: 1560 watts
  •     Jar capacity: 32 ounces
  •     Speed settings: Variable
  •     Manufacturer: Blendtec
  •     Color: Red
  •     Timer: No
  •     Food processor attachments: No
  •     Display: Yes
  •     Ice crusher: Yes
  •     Pulse function: Yes
  •     Included recipes: Yes
  •     Height: 20 inches
  •     Length: 10 inches
  •     Depth: 12 inches
  •     Product: 3-year limited warranty

Product Description

Amazon.com Product Description
Replace up to nine other kitchen appliances with this easy-to-use countertop machine--no need for a separate grain mill, juicer, bread machine, ice-cream maker, smoothie maker, blender, milkshake maker, coffee grinder, or ice crusher. With its powerful, commercial-quality, 1560-watt motor, the multi-purpose blender can handle almost any kitchen task. The all-in-one appliance works great for making fruit smoothies, freshly squeezed juice, homemade ice cream, milkshakes, cappuccinos, margaritas, soups, sauces, bread dough, dressings, salsas, and more. It can even turn ice into snow and comes with an ice-crushing guarantee. Furthermore, the countertop blender's exclusive trademarked Smart-Touch Tec-nology takes the guesswork out of blending and food processing. Simply press a button from the digital touchpad and the unit's preprogrammed cycle automatically speeds up and slows down to draw ingredients into the two-prong stainless-steel blade, which spins up to 29,000 rpm, thoroughly blending ingredients so recipes turn out perfect every time. The appliance provides a digital display to show the current status, and it shuts off automatically once the cycle has completed. Cycle options include "ice cream, frozen yogurt", "ice crush, milkshake", "soups, syrups, fondues", "sauces, dips, dressings, batters", "whole juice", and "smoothie". The control panel also provides a pulse function and up and down arrows for manually adjusting the speed. Another highlight includes the unit's square blending jar, which holds up to 32 ounces and features a large easy-grip handle, measurement markings in ounces up the side, and a secure-fitting lid. A user guide and delicious recipe ideas come included. The blender measures 12 by 10 by 20 inches and carries a three-year limited warranty.

Vita-Mix 1300 TurboBlend 4500 - Vitamix is fantastic

I love this blender!! It seemed pricey to me, but I've had mine for about a month (down to about $10 per smoothie!) but I love it and expect it to last a long time, based on what friends have told me about their machines.

Two great things about this blender. First, it is so easy to use: no assembling to use and disassembling to clean. It is one piece. I find myself using it in place of my food processor also because I don't have to go through the hassle of putting the pieces together.

Second, I have become hooked on "green smoothies." I can put anything in this blender and it purees it into a smoothie consistency. I put spinach and raw carrots in and then add whatever fruit I want with some cold water and the blender can make it into the consistency of thick juice. I'm experimenting with broccoli next. My whole family is eatting tons more fruits and veggies and that makes it worth the price to me.

Product Features
  •     Heavy-duty, 2+ peak horsepower motor with 2-speed control
  •     Virtually unbreakable, 64-ounce, polycarbonate container
  •     All stainless steel enclosed blade assembly with sealed ball bearings
  •     Metal-to-metal driver, thermally protected motor for optimum performance
  •     Measures 20-1/2 by 7-1/4 by 8-3/4 inches; 5-year warranty

Product Description
Vita-Mix TurboBlend 4500 is a heavy-duty, commercial-quality blender that delivers optimum performance and power. Superior engineering strengthens each part, ensuring a product that will last. 

Margaritaville DM2000 Fiji Frozen Concoction Maker

We love our Margaritaville machine! It has eliminated two blenders and a snow cone maker in our own kitchen. No telling what more. My husband loves a good 'rita, and I like to drink health shakes in the morning for breakfast. This machine is perfect for our needs. You can also just shave a little ice to make a snowy soft snow cone for the kids or enlist the blender element solely. It's a large machine, so if a blender is a daily necessity in your house and you have plenty of counter space to accomodate it, then this is great for you. Now, this is not going to chop frozen strawberries w/o compromising the integrity, per the saleswoman's instructions at the Williams-Sonoma that we bought it at. By the way, we bought ours there for the same price, but also have the Williams-Sonoma guarantee that covers the Margaritaville for life. If you have a WS in your area, I would suggest this route. If not, at least Amazon has their 1 yr. warranty on it.


Product Features
Color: NULL | Size: 36 Ounce
  •     Commercially UL approved with 550 watts of power and grounded three-prong plug
  •     Automatically mixes the right proportion of ice with ingredients
  •     Four automatic pre-programmed drink cycles
  •     Front access controls, stable footprint, and drip-free spout
  •     Measures 14 by 9 by 20 inches; 1-year warranty

Technical data
  •     Power output: 550 watts
  •     Jar capacity: 36 ounces
  •     Speed settings: 4 pre-programmed drink cycles
  •     Jar material: Glass
  •     Body material: Die-cast in aluminum base
  •     Manufacturer: Margaritaville
  •     Color: Silver
  •     Timer: No
  •     Food processor attachments: Ice shaver
  •     Display: No
  •     Pour spout: Yes
  •     Dishwasher safe: Yes
  •     Included recipes: Yes
  •     Height: 20 inches
  •     Length: 9 inches
  •     Depth: 14 inches
  •     Weight: Approximately 24 lbs
  •     Product: 1-year warranty

Product Description
Amazon.com Product Description
Kick-start the party by serving up restaurant-quality frozen concoctions with this unique, easy-to-use appliance. Far more than just an ordinary blender, the unit automatically shaves ice and blends up to 36 ounces of a favorite frosty drink, all at the touch of a button. Simply fill the top reservoir with ice, pour the ingredients into the glass jar, and select the amount and type of beverage. Choose from four pre-programmed drink cycles--margaritas, daiquiris, mudslides, or smoothies--and either a full pitcher or experiment with small batches using the one-, two-, or three-drink settings. Hit the automatic Shave-N-Blend switch, and the machine automatically mixes the right proportion of ice with ingredients and for the perfect amount of time. The shaved ice ensures better drink consistency--no more chunks or watery drinks. For party guests who like thicker or thinner drinks, the manual "shave only / blend only" toggle switch allows for easily customizing beverages by adding more shaved ice or blending longer.

Crafted from durable ABS plastic in a premium brushed-nickel finish, the unit features a die-cast aluminum base, which provides a stable footprint, and a heavy-duty die-cast aluminum shaver paddle and lower blending coupler that handle the power of the dual motors. Other highlights include simple front-access controls, a large-capacity reservoir that holds ice for mixing 72 ounces of frozen drinks between refills, and a 36-ounce thick-walled retro-styled glass blending jar with a generous handle and drip-free spout. The blending jar and its components clean up easily by hand or in the dishwasher, and the rest of the unit quickly wipes clean. Accessories include one shot glass, a quick set-up guide, a recipe guide, an instruction manual, four coasters, and drink charms in a tin can. The 700-watt frozen concoction maker measures 14 by 9 by 20 inches and carries a one-year warranty.

Margaritaville DM0500 Bahamas 36-Ounce Frozen-Concoction Maker

I picked up the DM0500 model after some extensive shopping around for one of the Margaritaville blenders. This one doesn't hold as much ice as the others but it holds enough for one pitcher worth of drinks. It also doesn't have the fancy buttons that the others have that denote "mudslide," "daiquiri," or "Margarita"(I've heard there is little difference in these settings).

That is the main difference between this model and the others. It had the standard shave only/ blend only switch and a start button( more on that later).

The blender itself is very nice it has some great artistic accents like behind the pitcher on the machine is a metal engraving of a palm tree and a sea plane. The construction is easy and it works right out of the box. All you have to do is attach the ice hopper and you're finished.

Some of the negatives though are that the metal ice chute (that's what I call it) shifts up and down so that it fits perfectly and tightly to the pitcher which is nice except that it doesn't seem like it is extremely sturdy but it hasn't broken yet so I guess I should report that if it does.

The Start button is nice it makes a drink about the consistancy of a smoothie from smoothie king. I enjoyed it alot. The ice hopper shreds ice like a dream and the seal on the top if fantastic. I noticed some people complaining that it spilled and I have had no such problem.

I would highly recommend this model over the others for it's reasonable price and great offerings.  

Product Features
  •     450-watt frozen-concoction maker blends up to 36 ounces
  •     Dual motors for shaving ice and blending beverages; ice reservoir
  •     Manual shave/blend option for customized drinks; dishwasher-safe parts
  •     Shot glass, recipes, and instructions
  •     Measures approximately 14-2/5 by 8-2/7 by 18 inches

Technical data
  •     Power output: 450 watts
  •     Jar capacity: 36 ounces
  •     Jar material: Plastic
  •     Manufacturer: Margaritaville
  •     Timer: No
  •     Food processor attachments: Ice shaver
  •     Display: No
  •     Pour spout: Yes
  •     Dishwasher safe: Yes
  •     Included recipes: Yes
  •     Height: 18 inches
  •     Length: 8-2/7 inches
  •     Depth: 14-2/5 inches
  •     Included accessories: Shot glass, recipes, instructions

Product Description
Amazon.com Product Description
Kick start any party by serving up restaurant-quality frozen concoctions with this unique, easy-to-use appliance. Far more than just an ordinary blender, the unit automatically shaves ice and blends up to 36 ounces of a favorite frosty drink, all at the touch of a button. Simply fill the top reservoir with ice and pour the ingredients into the glass jar. The machine utilizes two motors, one for shaving (not crushing) the ice and the second motor for blending the drinks. Shaved ice ensures better drink consistency--no more chunks or watery drinks. The blender's automatic shave n' blend cycle automatically makes a perfect 36-ounce batch of frozen margaritas.

For party guests who like thicker or thinner drinks, the manual "shave only / blend only" toggle switch allows for easily customizing beverages by adding more shaved ice or blending a little bit longer. The ice reservoir holds enough ice to make one full pitcher of margaritas in one automatic cycle, while melting ice is channeled into a rear reservoir to avoid watered-down drinks. The blending jar and its components clean up easily by hand or in the dishwasher, and the rest of the unit quickly wipes clean. Accessories include a Margaritaville shot glass, a quick start guide, a frozen-drink recipe guide, an instruction manual, and four drink coasters in a tin salt tray. The tropical color, nautical design elements, and chrome accents make the appliance the perfect party enhancer. The 450-watt frozen concoction maker measures approximately 14-2/5 by 8-2/7 by 18 inches.

Vitamix 1710 Professional Series 500 Variable-Speed Countertop Blender with 2+ HP Motor and 64-Ounce Jar

I have mainly used this for smoothies which it does an outstanding job. The only problem I have had is when making an icey type of drink, it wants to form an air pocket and the top portion doesn't want to mix in because it is thick with crushed ice. For this I would have to stop and start the machine and push the icey stuff down toward the blades. (only do this with the machine off) This is so great to make smoothies though and very healthy, there is no fruit waste (you do have to remove seeds and inedible peels like on oranges and bananas) everything else is pulverized into a healthy beverage so this is, in my opinion, healthier than a juicer since you are getting the juice and fiber of the fruits and vegetables. I haven't made any soups, I prefer mine to be chunky so I have no real interest in the soup. It is easy to clean as long as you clean it right after using it. It only takes a couple of minutes, use hot tap water a drop of dish soap and run it on high for a few seconds, pour out and rinse. The outside is stainless steel so there is no yellowing and no fading and it is very easy to wipe clean. I have noticed at the bottom of the container it is getting a little cloudy, I assume this is from the ice hitting the sides with such force, but it is only the bottom 2".

This won't fit under a cabinet but I have a counter where there is no cabinet above it, I leave it sit out all the time since I am using it about every day.
If I had to do over I would still buy this, if it is within your budget I think you will be pleased with the performance. 

Product Features
  • Countertop blender with laser-cut, stainless-steel, ice-crushing blades
  • Commercial-grade 2+ peak hp motor; patented tamper for processing thick mixtures
  • Variable speed, plus pulse; pre-programmed settings for Smoothies, Hot Soups, and Frozen Desserts
  • 64-ounce BPA-free jar; spill-proof vented lid; recipes and instructions included
  • Measures 8-4/5 by 7-1/5 by 20 inches

Technical data
  •     Power output: 2+ peak hp motor
  •     Jar capacity: 64 ounces
  •     Speed settings: Variable
  •     Jar material: BPA-free plastic
  •     Manufacturer: Vita-Mix
  •     Color: Brushed stainless
  •     Timer: No
  •     Food processor attachments: No
  •     Ice crusher: Yes
  •     Pulse function: Yes
  •     Included recipes: Yes
  •     Height: 20 inches
  •     Length: 7-1/5 inches
  •     Depth: 8-4/5 inches
  •     Included accessories: Spill-proof vented lid, recipes, and instructions



Product Description

Amazon.com Product Description
With its commercial-grade 2-plus peak horsepower motor, this versatile countertop appliance works great for blending, pureeing, chopping, mixing, and more. The blender features a laser-cut stainless-steel blade that can crush through ice in seconds, a patented tamper for processing thick mixtures, and variable speed control for processing at just the right speed for the task at hand. Its user-friendly controls also include a convenient "pulse" option and three pre-programmed settings for Smoothies, Hot Soups, and Frozen Desserts for consistent, foolproof results every time. In addition, the blender's oversized 64-ounce BPA-free jar creates a powerful vortex that forces ingredients up from the blade and back down through the center to ensure thorough blending. Other highlights include a generous jar handle, a spill-proof vented lid with a removable insert, a fingerprint-resistant brushed stainless-steel finish, and nonslip feet for stability during operation. Make everything from delicious homemade dips, pureed soups, creamy sauces, and appetizers to dressings, desserts, beverages, fruit smoothies, and more--the options are endless. A recipe book with 100 gourmet recipes and an instructional "Getting Started" cooking-class video come included. The blender measures 8-4/5 by 7-1/5 by 20 inches.

Vitamix CIA Professional Series Variable-Speed Countertop Blender with 2+ HP Motor and 64-Ounce Jar

The Vita Mix 1709 is what a blender should be, period.
It's not cheap, but holds with the maxim: "You Get What You Pay For". I watched hot soup being made
right there in the Vita Mix on youtube. It's true ! It will do that, and quickly.
The unit is very well made and I anticipate years of continuous use ( I'm using it every day and swear by it ).
As a juicer, it's great as well. There is no filtering-out the pulp as with a single-purpose, dedicated juicer.
But that's good from a health standpoint - you literally get the whole fruit or vegetable and thus retain vitamins
and minerals that you would be discarding if you used a true juicer. If you don't like "pulp", it's simple to
strain the juice ...
With one good knife, the Vita Mix and a Cuisinart processor I can accomplish more in my kitchen than I ever
dreamed possible. 

Product Features
  •     Countertop blender with laser-cut stainless-steel blade assembly
  •     2+ peak hp motor generates blade-tip speeds of 240 MPH
  •     Metal-to-metal container-to-base drive coupling; variable speed control
  •     64-ounce BPA-free jar, recipe book, instructional DVD, and manual included
  •     Measures 8-4/5 by 7-1/5 by 20 inches

Technical data
  •     Power output: 2+ peak hp motor
  •     Jar capacity: 64 ounces
  •     Speed settings: Variable
  •     Jar material: BPA-free plastic
  •     Manufacturer: Vita-Mix
  •     Color: Brushed stainless and black
  •     Timer: No
  •     Food processor attachments: No
  •     Display: No
  •     Ice crusher: Yes
  •     Pulse function: No
  •     Included recipes: Yes
  •     Height: 20 inches
  •     Length: 7-1/5 inches
  •     Depth: 8-4/5 inches
  •     Included accessories: Recipe book, instructional DVD, and user manual

Product Description

Amazon.com Product Description
With its 2-plus peak horsepower motor that generates blade-tip speeds up to 240 miles per hour, this versatile countertop appliance works great for blending, pureeing, chopping, juicing, grinding, and more. The blender features a laser-cut stainless-steel blade assembly that can crush through ice in seconds, container-to-base drive coupling made of durable metal-to-metal (not rubber or plastic) to ensure long-lasting high-quality performance, and variable speed control for processing at just the right speed for the task at hand. Flip the switch up to "high" for maximum speed or down to "variable" for adjusting the speed with the 1 to 10 control knob. Another switch makes it easy to turn the unit on and off. In addition, the blender's oversized 64-ounce BPA-free jar creates a powerful vortex that forces ingredients up from the blade and back down through the center to ensure thorough blending. Other highlights include a generous jar handle, a secure-fitting lid with a removable insert, and nonslip feet for stability during operation. Make everything from delicious homemade dips, pureed soups, and appetizers to creamy sauces, dressings, desserts, beverages, fruit smoothies, and more--the options are endless. An exclusive new recipe book comes included, "Recipes and Techniques from the CIA Master Chefs", which features over 20 recipes developed by the CIA's Certified Master Chefs. The blender also comes with an instructional DVD, an owner's manual, and a space-saving easel-style recipe book packed with over 300 easy-to-prepare recipes from some of the country's top professional chefs, including Joanne Weir, Michael Symon, and Hugh Carpenter. The blender measures 8-4/5 by 7-1/5 by 20 inches.

Cuisinart BFP-603 SmartPower Deluxe Blender and Food Processor

This food processor is the perfect size for smaller jobs. With a family of 3, I frequently need only a few cloves of garlic or a cup of bread crumbs. This processor is perfect for the smaller jobs. All the parts are easy to clean, top rack of the dishwasher. Blender is easy to use and powerful enough to break up even large cubes of ice. We use it to make smoothies with frozen fruit, no problems! Sturdy base to handle the powerful motor. Easy to use & recipes included in instruction booklet.

Product Features
  • High-performance 600-watt motor with die-cast metal housing with stainless steel collar
  • 3-Cup food processor attachment with feed tube and pusher, slicer and shredder disk and stainless steel chopper blade
  • Sleek 4-speed electronic touchpad controls with blue indicators: high, low, pulse and Ice crush controls
  • Standby mode; automatic 2-minute auto-stop feature
  • 48-Ounce thermal shock-resistant borosilicate glass jar and a patented ultra-sharp stainless steel blade

Product Description
Cuisinart introduces the SmartPower Deluxe Duet Blender and Food Processor-truly a dynamic duo that lets you do it all. The blender uses its smart power and sophisticated electronics to mince delicate herbs, whip up smoothies, even chop ice. Put on the food processor work bowl to slice, shred, chop or mix up a dip. With its sturdy die-cast base, this 2-in-1 workhorse can handle anything you toss at it-or into it.

Ninja Master Prep Professional Blender, Chopper and Ice Crusher: More Power & 2 Times Faster

I've had this little gem only a few days, but have already put it through a few paces. I bought the "professional" model for the extra power (50 watts doesn't seem like much, until you try to crush ice). The unit is easy to set up, store, and clean. I like the fact that the power unit is very small yet powerful. The power "pod" moves from one container to the other without the necessity of cleaning blades if several different items are being chopped or blended. My first smoothie came out without any lumps of either ice or frozen fruit, something that was impossible in my more expensive Krups machine. I've made salsa in the smaller bowl, then blended icy Margaritas in the pitcher in the next moment without having to clean the blades or bowls (each bowl/pitcher comes with a specific blade set just for that container). I find it practical, simple, and sturdy. Great value for the money, because you are getting a blender with 2 sizes of pitchers (40 and 48 oz), plus a food processer with a 16oz bowl. Each comes with a separate lid in case you wish to store in the same bowl...although I don't think this is something I will do. I must still remind myself to PULSE the machine as there are no controls like on a traditional blender or food processor, but I've retired my Krups and the Oster in favor of this model. The parts are dishwasher safe, but very easy to hand wash, also. So far, I love it!

Product Features
  • Ninja Blender with interchangeable master pod Crush ice in seconds
  • 1 16 oz master prep bowl, 1 master prep pitcher 40 ozs, 1 Master prep pitcher 48 ozs, 3 Custom storage lids
  • Blend frozen fruits into creamy smoothies
  • Chop fresh ingredients evenly - no more mush
  • More power and 2x faster - professional blade system

Product Description

Ninja the ultimate food & drink maker new and improved design

Back to Basics BPE3BRAUS Blender Express Plus 11-Piece Mixing System

It's funny, the different experiences people have with the same products. Now, this review is for the Blender Express, not the "Plus." The only difference is the attachments. My wife picked up a couple of these at Wally World after Christmas (2005). They were in a clearance cart for [...] each. I figured that they were probably pretty cheap and I'd have a backup after I burned the first one up. Well, a little over a year later, I'm still using the first one. I use it 3-4 times a week for smoothies and frozen coffee drinks. I have to say that I really abuse the little guy. My coffee drinks call for half of the mug to be filled with crushed ice.

It will make these drinks with a minimum of "crunchy" ice particles and they are quite enjoyable. I never expected it to last this long because, truthfully, from day one, I have been able to notice the "burned wire" odor coming from the unit as I continuosly overload the mug. Yet, it is still chugging along. Even at the full price, a year of this type of useage certainly makes it a good value. And, cleanup is extremely easy and the "make it and run" mug is really handy. Of course, for larger quantities, I fall back on the larger blender. If I ever do wear out both of these units, I would not hesitate to purchase another.



Product Features
  •     11-piece mixing system with 350-watt motor base and 2 speeds, plus pulse
  •     2 blade bases, 1 with quarto cross blades and 1 with dual flat blades
  •     2 24-ounce plastic travel mugs; 12- and 18-ounce plastic blending containers
  •     2 closable sipping lids; 2 drinking rims for comfortable sipping; recipes included
  •     Measures approximately 6 by 5-1/2 by 13-1/5 inches; 1-year limited warranty

Technical data
  • Power output: 350 watts
  • Jar capacity: 12-, 18-, and 24-ounces
  • Speed settings: 2
  • Jar material: Plastic
  • Body material: Chrome
  • Manufacturer: Back to Basics
  • Color: Chrome
  • Timer: No
  • Food processor attachments: Yes
  • Display: No
  • Pulse function: Yes
  • Dishwasher safe: No
  • Included recipes: Yes
  • Height: Approximately 13-1/5 inches
  • Length: Approximately 5-1/2 inches
  • Depth: Approximately 6 inches
  • Product: 1-year limited warranty
  • Included accessories: 350-watt motor base, 2 blade bases, 2 24-ounce heavy-duty plastic travel mugs, 12-ounce and 18-ounce plastic blending containers, 2 leak-proof closable sipping lids, and 2 comfort-fit drinking rims




Product Description
Amazon.com Product Description
Whether setting up house for the first time or looking to add versatility to an already busy kitchen, this 11-piece mixing system provides exceptional convenience. The set includes a powerful 350-watt motor base, one chopping blade base, one ice-crushing blade base, two 24-ounce heavy-duty plastic travel mugs, 12-ounce and 18-ounce plastic blending containers, two leak-proof closable sipping lids, and two comfort-fit drinking rims. With its small footprint, the compact unit takes up minimal space on the counter, yet it replaces a food processor, blender, and coffee grinder. Use it to grind fresh coffee beans or to make homemade salsa, salad dressings, milk shakes, and more. Simply add ingredients to one of the two blending containers, connect the container to the power base, and turn the dial from "low" to "high" speed or to the "pulse" setting to set the blades spinning. Even more, the containers feature durable see-through construction, which makes it easy to keep an eye on the consistency and to identify contents at a glance when stored in the refrigerator. A user manual with recipes comes included. Quick to assemble and easy to clean, the mixing system, with its sleek brushed-chrome exterior, measures approximately 6 by 5-1/2 by 13-1/5 inches and carries a one-year limited warranty.

Ninja Master Prep Professional Blender, Chopper and Ice Crusher: More Powerful & 2X Faster- Recipe Book Included


I really enjoy this product. I got it as a Christmas present from my in laws and it is the BEST blender I have used. Honestly, I've only used it for smoothies but will try to make sauces and such soon. Before I've always had to add ice to make my smoothies frothy. I like my smoothies well blended and smooth, but a little frothy. If I wanted it 100% smooth or liquid I would drink juice. If you blend for long enough though - it will become juice. Not that that's bad - just depends on your taste.

Best aspects of this product (*for me*):

1. easy to clean (take motor off, take the lid off, pull out the blade, wash)
2. easy to reassemble (put the blade in, put the lid back, place motor on top and go)
3. safety - the blade comes out right after you're done blending
4. nothing gets wasted - because you can remove the blade it's really easy to scoop out all the goodness. Before I would always have at least 1/2 C of smoothie wasted because I couldn't get to the bottom of the blender. (It wouldn't slide out because there would still be chunks of whatever I was trying to blend left anyway - never happens with the Ninja!)  

Product Features
  •     Interchangeable master pod
  •     The ultimate food and drink maker
  •     Ninja new & improved blender Includes 2 Extra prep bowls
  •     Crush ice into snow in seconds and Blend frozen fruits into creamy smoothies
  •     Chop fresh ingredients evenly - no more mush

Product Description
Rule the kitchen with Ninja. When it comes to battles with food, the Ninja food processor is always victorious, packing a high-powered interchangeable motor head that works with a 16 ounce bowl, 40 ounce pitcher and 48 ounce pitcher for compatibility with every recipe. Simply add ingredients, choose your container and pulse for precision results that wow. 1-year limited warranty. Model QB1004.

Ninja Blender NJ600 XL - Great Blender

I got this blender today so it has only been used twice. However, I LOVE it so far...made "snow" in a jiffy. My main use will be for smoothies and it is a champ at making these clump free. I used all frozen fruit and nuts in mine today and it blended them right up. The container is huge and made perfect sized smoothies for my family of 3. I was in the market for the Blendtec total blender and while I'm sure it would be an AWESOME blender, it's just too expensive for my smoothie habits right now. Hopefully, this blender will be around for a few years. It is really sturdy on my cabinet as well. I love the fact that the container must be locked on before the machine will power up. Another reviewer mentioned the size was tall...it is a tall machine! I will have put the container in a cabinet and leave the base on countertop. It measured 17" from counter to top of the container with the lid locked on top. About 7" deep measuring from front to back of the base.
Hope this helps,

Update on my review...
I have made quite a few smoothies now and it is proving to be a great blender! I don't have any clumps or chunks in anything I've blended. I'm using frozen fruit and ice as well and it is smooth. The only time it is "gritty" is when I add nuts but I like the texture. They are extremely blended down but it does change the consistency a bit. I use the regular straws and drink it just fine. I'm extremely happy with this purchase=)

Product Features
  •     Generous 72-ounce pitcher
  •     1000-Watts professional grade motor for heavy duty blending and processing
  •     Pitcher, lid and blades are dishwasher safe
  •     Ninja 6-Blade Technology
  •     Ultimate Ice Crushing Action - Blasts Solid Ice Cubes Into Powdery Snow In Seconds

Product Description
In sociology, there is the concept known as "defining the context of a situation." It deals with how humans blend and integrate (or not) in societies or social situations. Several contexts need to be met and satisfied. The Ninja XL Blender NJ600 easily mixes kitchen ingredients to make delicious drinks, soups, and foods. Daniel Moynihan discussed America as a multicultural environment, much like a tossed salad. The NJ600 powerfully blends several ingredients to create an entirely new whole. Contextually, the Ninja 600 is a blender that is powerful enough to bring together many different ingredients to develop a truly holistic solution. A blender is merely a blender. The Ninja XL redefines it completely.

Love nutritious smoothies? Make your own! The Euro Pro Ninja XL Blender has a 1000-watt powerful motor and a 72-ounce pitcher for making virtually any type of healthy or bar drink. Mix up your next meal with this Ninja XL blender. The powerful blades allow you to chop veggies for appetizers or crush ice for frozen drinks. This versatile Ninja XL blender is sure to come in handy in your kitchen for everyday use and when throwing a party.

The electronic control panel offers 3 speeds and PULSE for controlled processing. This powerful unit can effortlessly crush ice into snow and blend whole vegetables and fruits into delicious smoothies in just seconds.. The cord storage helps keep your countertops clear while the sturdy no-slip base offers stand-still performance.
As seen on TV, the Euro Pro Ninja XL NJ600 Blender is a powerful kitchen tool for processing foods and on ice-breaking. It's a socially positive appliance that can bring joy to all.

Features:
Precision Cutting - Dices, Chop & Puree Top Fill Spout Non-Slip Base Safety Lock Unit Dimensions are approximately 10 1/2 H x 14 2/5 L x 9 1/4 W 110-120V AC Powered with cord management

Vitamix 1700 Turbo Blend 4500 Countertop Blender with 2+ HP Motor


Vitamix makes excellent products. I have owned this one for about 7 or 8 years and just purchased a Blendtec a few months ago, as well.


Both are great blenders. Comparison of differences:
  1. Motor - Blendtec has a more powerful motor. Noticeably more powerful - 3 HP vs 2 HP.
  2. Construction - Blendtec is not as substantial in construction. Vitamix feels more heavy-duty, and is heavier. Vitamix will not rock and shake as much. Both are made in the USA with BPA-free containers.
  3. Noise level - I don't notice that much difference. Maybe Blendtec is a bit louder, but it doesn't bother me.
  4. Controls - There are more controls on the Blendtec - slower/faster, pulse, and preprogrammed selections. For example: Smoothies is one of the preprogrammed selections. So this means the Blendtec will alter its speed on its own in order to make sure items get blended that might otherwise stay bouncing around on top. It is optimized for each setting. You can do the same thing manually with the Vitamix with the spin dial that controls speed. Physically the Vitamix manually spin dial is easier to use. The Blendtec has a digital counter to tell you how many times you have used it.
  5. 5) Warranty - the Vitamix warranty is longer - 7 years on ALL parts that can be extended to 10 for an extra cost. Blendtec is normally only 3, not including the containers. This can be extended to 7 at no extra cost if purchased at Costco. The Vitamix had to have its motor replaced once. They were happy to do it and paid for shipping BOTH ways. Customer service was excellent. I can't evaluate this yet for the Blendtec since I haven't had it long enough, but the warranty does not cover shipping both ways.
  6. Height - the Blendtec is shorter and fits easily under the cabinets in the kitchen. The Vitamix, at 20.5 inches, does not.
  7. Containers - Both are BPA-free. The design of the Blendtec containers, while less substantial, is better. Wider instead of taller, they are easier to clean and easier to get food out of. Plus, this design lends itself to better performance.
  8. Performance - the Blendtec will spin and pulverize thicker food even when the Vitamix will sit there and spin with nothing moving on top. The Vitamix requires a bit more work in those cases. If the liquid is thinner, the Vitamix does not do this and spins fine. The Blendtec 4 qt 4 inch blade container is better in this regard even than the 3 qt 3 inch blade container. I don't have to push the food down much at all with the Blendtec. However, with the bit of extra effort, the Vitamix will end up blending just as well as the Blendtec.
  9. Splashing - the Blendtec definitely splashes food more in the container than the Vitamix. Be sure to keep that lid on the Blendtec.
  10. Guarantee - The Vitamix accepts a return within 30 days and pay for your shipping back:
 

Product Features
  •     2-speed blender with thermally protected 2+ peak horsepower motor
  •     Stainless-steel enclosed blade assembly with sealed ball bearings
  •     Clear 64-ounce non-toxic polycarbonate container; locking lid and plunger
  •     Easy-to-clean front panel; full-color recipe book included
  •     Measures 7-1/4 by 8-3/4 by 20 inches; 5-year limited warranty

Technical data
  •     Power output: 1380 watts
  •     Jar capacity: 64 ounces
  •     Speed settings: 2
  •     Jar material: Non-toxic clear polycarbonate
  •     Manufacturer: Vita-Mix
  •     Color: Black
  •     Timer: No
  •     Food processor attachments: No
  •     Display: No
  •     Ice crusher: No
  •     Pulse function: No
  •     Included recipes: Yes
  •     Height: 20 inches
  •     Length: 8-3/4 inches
  •     Depth: 7-1/4 inches
  •     Weight: 14 lbs
  •     Product: 5-year limited warranty
  •     Included accessories: Plunger 
Product Description
Amazon.com Product Description
No need to worry about the sound of a strained, unhappy motor with this powerful machine--even when mixing up nut butters or icy concoctions. The versatile countertop appliance features a 2-plus peak horsepower motor, which runs substantially cooler and efficiently generates blade speeds of over 200 MPH for blending, pureeing, chopping, juicing, grinding, and more. The unit's stainless-steel enclosed blade assembly, with sealed ball bearings, can process fresh, whole foods--including the leaves, peel, and stem--in seconds for superior taste and a smooth texture without any stringy bits or unblended chunks. In addition, the unit's easy-to-clean front panel provides moisture-shielded switches, two speed options, and an on/off switch. The heavy-duty, commercial-quality blender also comes equipped with a large, clear, 64-ounce container made from Eastman Tritan copolyester material, which makes it BPA-free, virtually unbreakable, and more chemical resistant. The container offers convenient measuring marks, a plunger, and a spill-proof locking lid that removes easily. Blend a large batch of soup for the whole family or as little as 4 ounces at a time. Make delicious beverages, soups, homemade dips and sauces, salsas, dressings, desserts, baby foods, purees, and smoothies--the options are endless. A Healthy Lifestyle recipe book containing over 150 step-by-step recipes in full color comes included. The 1380-watt two-speed blender measures 7-1/4 by 8-3/4 by 20 inches and carries a five-year limited warranty. 

Blendtec Home The Professional's Choice 1560-Watt Hp3a Blender - An excellent blender

This is an awesome blender. It blends stuff like you've never seen before and I am really pleased with it. But holy cow is it LOUD!! The cat hates me. I got a pair of earmuffs from the shooting supply place to wear while using it. Maybe overkill, but I think that using it twice a day without them would result in hearing damage eventually. I wish they sold an enclosure for this one like they do for the commercial ones....I'd definitely buy one.

I bought this because I had a juicer and liked it. But I felt that tossing all that pulp and fiber had to be making me miss out on a lot of health benefits. And just trying to spoon some of it back into the juice doesn't work, it's gross. This blender blends whole fruits and vegetables wonderfully, I can still get the fiber and in a drinkable form.
After I bought this, I read a webpage where they talked about blending an avocado WITH the pit, and I tried it. It works, I ended up with an amazingly smooth mousse-like creamy pudding. Not something I'd do every day, but it was very interesting. I have been making kale banana blueberry smoothies for breakfast and it blends everything into one homogenous shake. No bits of leaves, chunks of stuff, etc. I'm enjoying it. I just wish it wasn't so loud.

Product Features
Color: Black
  • Commercial-quality 1,560-watt countertop blender with 3 HP direct-drive motor
  • Preprogrammed blending cycles; digital touchpad controls; auto shutoff
  • 2-prong stainless-steel blade spins at up to 29,000 rpm; ice-crushing guarantee
  • 2-quart square blending jar; secure-fitting lid; user guide and recipes included
  • Measures 7 by 8 by 15.5 inches; 3-year motor-base warranty; 1-year jar warranty; lifetime coupling-and-blade warranty

Product Description
Amazon.com Product Description
Replace up to nine other kitchen appliances with this easy-to-use countertop blender--no need for a separate grain mill, juicer, bread machine, ice-cream maker, smoothie maker, blender, milkshake maker, coffee grinder, or ice crusher. With its powerful commercial-quality, 1,500-watt 3-horsepower direct-drive motor, the blender can handle almost any kitchen task. The all-in-one appliance makes smoothies, fresh juice, ice cream, milkshakes, cappuccinos, margaritas, soups, sauces, breads, dressings, salsas, and more. It can even turn ice to snow and comes with an ice-crushing guarantee.


In addition, the countertop blender’s exclusive trademarked Smart-Touch tec-nology takes the guesswork out of blending and food processing. Simply press a button from the digital touchpad and the unit's preprogrammed cycle automatically speeds up and slows down to draw ingredients into the two-prong stainless-steel blade, which spins at up to 29,000 rpm, thoroughly blending ingredients so recipes turn out perfect every time. The appliance shuts itself off automatically once the cycle has completed. Another highlight includes the unit's square, polycarbonate blending jar, which holds a generous 64 ounces and features a large handle, measurement markings, and a secure-fitting lid. A user guide and recipe book with more than 100 recipes comes included. The blender measures 12 by 10 by 20 inches and carries a three-year warranty on the motor base, a one-year warranty on the jar, and a lifetime warranty on the coupling and blade.

Oster 4093 Classic Beehive Blender - Simple does it best

We bought this blender after a horrid experience with some Cuisianart mulit-speed blender that turned out to be a piece of ... Originally I was attracted to all the bells and whistles, but after all that leaked on the first pouring, I realized we had a problem, Houston.

After cruising the ratings here, we bought the basic, two-speed (read: go and pulse) GORGEOUS chrome beehive blender. Somehow we got the one that had the mini-jar for dressings, the food processor, and milkshake blade with chrome cannister, all for less than the Cuisinart Multi-Function Mistake. :)

This thing kicks. I've made dressings in it, and it was done with ease and they were blended well. Most importantly, I've made several batches of adult drinks involving ice, and as long as you add the ice a few cubes at a time, it turns out perfectly smooth (no ice chips hitting your teeth as you tip the glass).

I LOVE OUR OSTERIZER BEEHIVE BLENDER!!!! Simple is really all you need in a blender. If it's something that needs a bit of mixing, hit the pulse button as needed. If it's serious mixing, turn it on. In my opinion, speed 3, 6, and 9 are not required. This does it all, and looks MIGHTY fine while doing it. If only we had the counter space to leave it out.......it's SO pretty!!!!
Happy blending, anything!

Product Features
  •     Powerful 500 watt motor blends, chops, grinds, grates, and crushes ice
  •     2 speeds plus low-speed pulse function for just the right amount of control
  •     40-ounce, ribbed-and-tapered glass container
  •     Classic beehive-shaped base with rubber feet for stability
  •     Measures 16 by 7-1/4 inches; 1-year warranty

Technical data
  •     Power output: 500 watts
  •     Jar capacity: 40 ounces
  •     Speed settings: 2
  •     Jar material: Glass
  •     Manufacturer: Oster
  •     Color: Chrome
  •     Timer: No
  •     Food processor attachments: No
  •     Display: No
  •     Ice crusher: No
  •     Pulse function: Yes
  •     Dishwasher safe: Yes
  •     Included recipes: Yes
  •     Height: 16 inches
  •     Length: 7-1/4 inches
  •     Depth: 7-1/4 inches
  •     Weight: Approximately 11 lbs
  •     Warranty: 1 year
  •     Included accessories: Lid with 2-ounce removable measuring cap, instructions, and recipe booklet 

Hamilton Beach Single-Serve Blender with 2 Jars and 2 Lids

I bought this because of the great reviews and I am extremely pleased with it. I just love that I can be enjoying my smoothie after two or three minutes from start to finish. I also love how easy it is to clean. Wonderful product.
I purchased this for my grandson who likes to make fruit shakes and it works great. It takes ice cubes well.


Product Features
  •     Travel lid lets you drink from the jar
  •     Fits in most car drink holders
  •     Great for fruit smoothies, icy drinks, shakes and more
  •     Stainless steel blades
  •     One-touch blending

Product Description
Hamilton Single-Serve Blender with 2 Jars and 2 Lids. Why take out your big blender when all you need is one or two drinks? The Single-Serve Blender is perfect when you want a smaller quantity of smooth refreshment and don't want to clean a whole blender jar.

KitchenAid KHB300 Hand Blender - Whips like a pro!!!

I learned a long time ago, if you go KitchenAid, you go for life. They make the highest quality, longest life products I have ever seen. This hand mixer is the third of its kind I've owned. I've had two of the Braun models and they died out after about a year of average use. I finally got the KitchenAid and it has been going strong for a few years now. I really like having the ability to go down to the bottom of a large pot, a full 8". Even though it is of substantial weight, it fits your hand like a glove. I found it far superior to the Braun, as a matter of fact, it doesn't even compare.
The plastic cup with lid makes an excellent accessory since you can mix and store without wasting time. The chopper is the most efficient I have seen, does a better job that a food processor. I especially like the multi-speed dial. It goes from 1 to 9 so it has the power you need, when you need it. Egg white or whip cream doesn't even challenge it, the whipping attachment makes sure of that. This baby handles like a pro. There are times when you don't need the big mixer and the immersion blender really fills in nicely. You won't be disappointed with the quality, power or its sleek look.
  
Product Features
Color: White
  •     Measures 17 by 3 by 6-inch; 1-year, hassle-free, replacement warranty.
  •     Accessory bag with drawstring keeps all components together
  •     4-Cup mixing beaker with snap-lock lid for storing foods
  •     Includes wire whisk and nut chopper attachments
  •     Ergonomic, fashion-colored housing with no-slip grip



Product Description
Amazon.com Review
A great gift for those with small kitchens, this hand-held blender and its accessories take the place of several larger appliances. Included are a regular blending blade (which can be immersed 8 inches into soup pots or deep bowls), a wire whisk for beating eggs and batters, and an enclosed chopper for nuts, cheese, and fresh herbs. Also included are a four-cup mixing beaker with a snap-lock lid, useful for storing blended ingredients, as well as a drawstring bag to keep all the components together. KitchenAid covers the blender with a one-year, hassle-free replacement warranty.

Excellent Blender - Cuisinart CPB-300 SmartPower 15-Piece Compact Portable Blending/Chopping System


I have really enjoyed using this product. I need to have easy-to-eat foods, so I started using blenders and a food processor to puree meals. What a pain, and the clean-up!! Don't get me started. This Cuisinart has saved the day. I fill it with the food I want to puree, add the liquid (needs more than you think) and then pulse. First on low, then high. I may take it off an shake it, and then run a bit more, occasionally I will run without pulsing for 30 secs. or so. Its fast!! It makes a smooth puree, better than my blender, better than my food processor and much quicker. Then I put the black top on the cup and viola, ready to eat. No other dishes needed. The clean up is easy -- just rinse the blade and put the top and cup in the dishwasher. There are plenty of cups and tops, so if I want to make another flavor or a side, I use another cup. This has been indispensable for me to eat regular food--the same food I make for my family, pureed. When I want hot items, I can put the cup in the microwave before or after blending, which makes it so much easier than a blender. For my needs this is perfect. I haven't used the grinding blade yet.

I'm having fun making great puree recipes...so much so, I'm thinking I should publish a book on them, or at least share with friends who are recovering and need easy to digest foods, or easy to eat foods.

Product Features
  •     Powerful 350-watt motor with a sleek electronic touchpad and LED indicator lights
  •     ABS housing with stainless steel front panel
  •     Standby mode; safety interlock and auto-stop features
  •     High, low and pulse controls with a patented ultra sharp stainless steel blade
  •     BPA-free tritan 32-ounce blender cup, 8-ounce chopper cup and a set of four 16-ounce "To-Go" cups

Product Description
Meet the Cuisinart SmartPower Compact Portable Blender-the compact powerhouse that does it all. Use the streamline blending cup to make smoothies in a flash. Mince herbs in the chopper cup and whip up custom drinks right in the "To-Go" cups-we've included four of them so everyone can have their favorite. Designed of fit anywhere, the Compact Portable Blender delivers big blender performance with a 350-watt motor and the ease of a single hand operation with the user friendly electronic key pad. Stainless steel accents create an attractive, fashionable addition to any kitchen. New BPA free Tritan from Eastman co-polyester is used for all the vessels-blender, chopper and your "To-Go" cups. They are all shatter resistant and dishwasher safe. A real timer saver, clean up and maintenance become simple chores.

Awesome - Margaritaville DM1000 Frozen Concoction Maker

When I saw this item for sale I just had to buy one for my husband as a college graduation gift. Margaritas are his favorite drink and he just couldn't duplicate that restaurant quality consistancy with a blender. This Margaritaville machine actually shaves the ice instead of chopping it like a blender would do. This creates that nice smooth consistancy of the drink instead of a lumpy texture. It's very easy to operate. All you do is fill the ice chamber with ice, pour the correct amout of your drink mixture into the pitcher (it will make 1-3 servings at a time), set the machine to how many servings you would like, then turn it on. The machine automatically measure,shaves and blend the perfect amount of ice according to the amount of servings. No more watery drinks. When my kids have friends over for pool parties they love me to make them alcohol free strawberry daiquiris or pina coladas or fruit smoothies.

One nice feature about this machine is that as the ice in the ice chamber melts, the water is channeled into a collection reservoir, that is easily removeable to dump out. The water never mixes with the drink mix.

Clean-up is simple. Whatever ice remains in the ice chamber can be left to melt and drain into the reservoir then discard it or you can have the machine shave the remaining ice into the pitcher. We put our pitcher and pitcher parts into the dishwasher for a good cleaning.

If you are a frozen drink lover, like my husband and I are you have to own one of these. It's pricey but worth it!

I also, highly recommend the canvas carrying case that can be purchased separately. It's very nicely made. 

Product Features
  •     Frozen concoction maker shaves ice and blends up to 32 ounces
  •     Automatically mixes the right proportion of ice with the ingredients
  •     Front-access controls; stable footprint; generous handle and drip-free spout
  •     Easy-to-clean design; includes four coasters
  •     Measures 15-2/3 by 11 by 21 inches; 1-year warranty

Technical data
  •     Jar capacity: 32 ounces
  •     Jar material: Glass
  •     Manufacturer: Margaritaville
  •     Color: White, silver, and lime green
  •     Timer: No
  •     Food processor attachments: No
  •     Display: No
  •     Ice crusher: Shaves ice
  •     Pour spout: Yes
  •     Height: 21 inches
  •     Length: 11 inches
  •     Depth: 15-2/3 inches
  •     Weight: 17 lbs
  •     Warranty: 1 year

Hamilton Beach 54615 Wavestation Express Dispensing Blender with 48-Ounce Jar - A great party blender

I bought 2 Wavestations this summer for an annual beach blender party I throw. Armed with a portable generator and tiki bar, I literally mixed over 100 batches of frozen drinks in each unit in just one afternoon (I stopped counting at 100). I have bartended professionally and recreationally for over 20 yrs and I have never run across a commercial blender, let alone a household version that can create fast, consistent smooth blends AND serve them to the last drop from a built in pour tap without ever having to remove the top from the base. Yes, the tap actually works, and works great! I'm buying more just in case some corporate idiot decides to drop the line. Don't let the low price scare you, the Wavestation is really one of those rare items today that actually work as advertised. Enjoy, and remember to party in moderation, or at least give your car keys to somebody how can! :)



Product Features
  •     Wave-Action system forces mixture down into the blades for smooth results
  •     48-Ounce dishwasher safe DuraBlend jar
  •     Patented stainless steel Ice Sabre blades
  •     4 speeds plus pulse
  •     500 Watts peak power

Technical data

  •     Power output: 500 watts
  •     Jar capacity: 56 ounces
  •     Jar material: Plastic
  •     Manufacturer: Hamilton Beach
  •     Color: Black
  •     Timer: No
  •     Food processor attachments: No
  •     Display: No
  •     Pour spout: Yes
  •     Dishwasher safe: Yes
  •     Height: Approximately 13 inches
  •     Length: Approximately 8 inches
  •     Depth: Approximately 7 inches
  •     Weight: Approximately 6 lbs
  •     Product: 3-year warranty

KitchenAid 5-Speed Blenders with Polycarbonate Jars - Do Yourself a Favor and Buy this Fantasitc Blender

My husband and I make smoothies almost every single night (as in, 6-7 nights/week), so we're really hard on our blenders. We have been through 4 blenders in the last 3 years alone. We started with a cheap Oster blender, but quickly realized that it was pretty much useless for the thick smoothies we like to make. Next, I bought the Back to Basics Smoothie Elite, which was great for as long as it held up, but as it turned out, that was only 6 months. So, we upgraded to the Back to Basics Smoothie Professional, which was great until I dropped the glass jar into the sink and broke it, only to find that you couldn't buy a new one ANYWHERE so my $120 blender was now worthless.

After all this, I decided to stop fooling around and buy a Kitchenaid. This blender has all the power you need (way more power than any of the first 3 blenders I bought; both the smoothie blenders came with a stir stick, but such a thing isn't even necessary when you have the power of this Kitchenaid), and is a steal at $99, since we've had it for a year now and it's still as good as new. The motor is unstoppable, the blade is fantastic, it cleans easily, the jar is polycarbonate (i.e. unbreakable if you drop it), and there is a removable plastic piece in the lid in case you do want to use a stir stick.
I love this blender, and when it dies (which I hope/believe will be years from now, given how reliable my other Kitchenaid appliances are) I will be replacing it with the exact same make and model. It's everything a blender should be! 


Product Features
Color: Onyx Black
  •     5-speed blender offers .9 HP motor and Intelli-Speed electronic controls
  •     Die-cast metal base; steel-reinforced coupler; 1-piece stainless-steel blade
  •     Dishwasher-safe shatter-resistant pitcher with 56-ounce capacity; soft-grip handle
  •     Automatic "crush ice" button; Clean Touch control pad; cord storage for tidy countertops
  •     Measures 7-1/4 by 9 by 15-1/5 inches; 1-year hassle-free replacement warranty

Technical data
  •     Power output: .9 horsepower
  •     Jar capacity: 56 ounces
  •     Speed settings: 5
  •     Jar material: Polycarbonate
  •     Body material: Solid die-cast metal
  •     Manufacturer: KitchenAid
  •     Color: Onyx Black
  •     Timer: No
  •     Food processor attachments: No
  •     Display: No
  •     Ice crusher: Yes
  •     Pour spout: Yes
  •     Pulse function: Yes
  •     Cord storage: Yes
  •     Dishwasher safe: Yes
  •     Height: 15-1/5 inches
  •     Length: 7-1/4 inches
  •     Depth: 9 inches
  •     Weight: 9-8/9 lbs
  •     Warranty: 1-year hassle-free replacement