Vitamix vs Blendtec – the Ultimate Comparison
4.9 (227,088 reader ratings)
Which is the Best blender? In our, THE ORIGINAL, Vitamix vs Blendtec comparison we reveal the detailed similarities & differences between these top performance blenders. Our complete 2024 review is based on over 15 years of performance blender education experience.
Blendtec vs Vitamix Overview
We use Blendtec and Vitamix blenders on a daily basis. We also give workshops on improving your health with better nutrition and how to get the most out of your blender investment. Worth every penny, the high cost for either blender is pretty much the same. Both are great but which is the best blender for YOU?
See our » Complete Vitamix Review
Want the skinny on different Blendtec blender comparison?
Read our » Complete Blendtec Review
Buy the RIGHT blender for YOU.
If at any time you have more questions or need more help please ask below in the comments or contact us directly, we are at your service.
Blendtec vs Vitamix Blending Performance
In Blendtec Vitamix comparisons, consumers report both are incredibly powerful blenders. They both can easily crush ice, make hot soup, blend nut butters, grind seeds, puree fruit and a whole lot more. They are also the best blenders for making green smoothies.
Which blender has more power? Blendtec makes blenders with more power. The newer Vitamix models, such as the 7500, 750, and Smart System Series are their most powerful at 12 amps, while the Vitamix classic models, such as the 5200, draw less power at 11.5 amps/1380 watts. This versus Blendtec’s Designer models with power up to 15 amps/1725 watts
We choose to NOT put much weight on advertised horsepower of these blender for a couple of reasons.
1) Manufacturers advertise “peak horsepower” which is not a true indication of blending power. Peak horsepower is a measurement of a single instance of power output under a certain condition resulting in the highest power output possible.
2) Horsepower can be measured and reported using different methods and is therefore not a good value for comparison.
3) True blending performance is dependent upon more factors than just raw power output. Compared to other blenders, both Vitamix and Blendtec have more power and torque to effectively break-down cell walls and blend any food product. For the most part differences in their power are negligible.
Speed: Vitamix variable speed control has a range of 500 to 37,000 Revolutions per Minute (RPM), allowing for more control at slower speeds. Most Blendtec blenders come with preset speeds, 6 to 10 depending upon the model; the Designer 725 has a 100-speed touch slider.
Chopping: Neither blender is designed specifically to be a good chopper. Although, in comparing Blendtec to Vitamix, the low speed variable control of the Vitamix does allow for better chopping results. The Blendtec 725 comes real close with its 100 speeds. Practice with the pulse feature can result in very satisfying results with any model you choose.
With power comes noise…
both blenders are loud. Some models are louder than others. As for which one is “louder”, it all depends upon the specific model as sound level can vary a lot. The » Blendtec Pro 800 is the absolute quietest.
Warranty and Durability
Both of these blender brands are built to last and have the best warranty of all household blenders to back it up. They go far beyond the typical 90-day or 1-year warranty of regular blenders that so commonly fail shortly after the warrant expires. Vitamix set the standard in the industry around 1999 with their 7-Year Full Use warranty. Blendtec’s warranty changed in 2014 to a full 8-year warranty (10-year for the Pro models), thereby becoming the best warranty in the industry. The new Vitamix Smart System blenders now have a 10-year warranty to match. Extended warranties are available direct from both companies at an additional cost and on occasion club stores such as Costco and Sam’s Club offer warranty extensions as a promotion.
The Vita-mix Corporation has been making performance blenders for over 80 years and Blendtec has been making blenders for the home for over 30 years. These blenders are made to last and it is not uncommon to learn about customers that have been using their blender for 10+ years without an issue. Both companies are US based and have the majority of their product manufactured and assembled in the USA.
Both Vitamix and Blendtec companies are known for excellent customer service and honoring their warranties without hassle.
Vitamix Containers & Blendtec Jars – Volume and Blades
Containers: All current blending containers from both companies are BPA-Free copolyester plastic with volume measurement marks. These containers are light-weight, very strong and quite difficult to break. Glass blending jars are NOT an option with these blenders. This is primarily due to safety; the power and force generated by these blenders could easily break glass, and for their size, glass containers would be extremely heavy.
Blendtec GO JAR SALE! – get it » HERE!
Vitamix container options include:
Blendtec jar options include:
The Standard packages for each blender comes with a “64oz” volume container or in some cases a 48oz container. Both companies offer other options and packages. Blendtec boasts a one blade does it all, both “wet” and “dry” blending in a single container. There is a 32oz Vitamix “dry grains” container available. Think you need a separate container to grind grains? You don’t necessarily, see our » Dry Blending Comparison
In addition to the dry grains container, Vitamix offers a 48oz container as well as a 32oz wet jar. The 64oz container that comes with the Vitamix Classic Series is 13.4 inches tall. The biggest complaint about Vitamix tends to be that this container is too tall to store the blender on counter-tops. Vitamix addressed this issue with the 48-oz container and a low-profile 64oz container that comes standard since the release of the Next Generation G-Series blenders. This new container is shorter (~10 inches) with a wider base that the tall 64-oz so it fits under most, but not all, cabinets.
All Vitamix containers are available for both classic and smart system models. The classic containers, with the black lid are compatible with the classic models such as the 5200,7500,750 & Explorian while the smart system containers are compatible with the Ascent and Venturist Series.
The Ascent Series and G-Series come with the more efficient low-profile 64 oz container. See our » Vitamix 7500 Review for more information.
Blendtec’s most popular blending jar offered is their Wildside+ jar with a fifth side added to their square jar design and a 4 inch blade. Also offered is the small Blendtec Twister jar. The Twister jar is by far Blendtec’s greatest improvement allowing for small volume blends. See more about the Twister jar.
Container volume:
While both blenders’ standard containers are advertised as “2 qt”, there is a notable difference. All Vitamix blending containers are UL rated to blend at capacity – their 64 oz container can blend a full container’s worth of food. The Blendtec jar can have difficulties operating at full capacity (WildSide Jar ~90 oz); Blendtec recommends filling their containers 1/2 full for optimum efficiency. Vita-Mix states you can fill them to the maximum volume and blend without issue, although it really depends on what you are blending. We have been successful running Blendtec with nearly full containers, with the WildSide that holds ~90 ounces that equates to about 64 ounces.
Blades: Blendtec blenders have a 2-prong, dull Stainless Steel blade. Vitamix blenders have a 4-prong Stainless Steel, 2 dull hammermill blades and 2 cutting blades. Both of these blades are engineered so they will not need replacing when used as recommended.
Lids:
Vitamix containers, except for Self-Detect containers, come with a rubber spill-proof vented lid with a center plug that can be removed to add ingredients while the machine is running and to make use of the tamper. (The new Smart System Self-Detect container lids no longer are rubber, they are clear plastic.) These lids have a “locking tap” that snaps on the lip to keep the lid on securely for blending. Blendtec blending jars come with a square vented Gripper lid that presses in place. It also has a center plug for adding ingredients. A minor “flaw” in the Blendtec lid design is that it doesn’t stay on as securely. Some customers have complained that the lid pops off when blending if left unattended. This occurs most often when filling the jar too full.
Every Vitamix container comes with a tamper. Blendtec containers do not come with tampers – their claim is that “they don’t need them”. For more information see tamper details.
Usability and Ease of Use
Both Vitamix and Blendtec are easy to use but their controls make the difference. Operation is different depending upon which blender you choose.
Vitamix C-Series Controls
Vitamix G-Series Controls
Vitamix Ascent Controls
Speed Control:
Vitamix offers manual control over your blending pleasure with its variable speed dial vs Blendtec’s buttons, or slider, to cycle through their multiple speeds as needed (available speeds now vary with most every new Blendtec model – see our Blendtec Model Comparison). Blendtec is a microprocessor controlled machine with digital display to keep track of blending times and cycles.
Blendtec Classic Control Buttons
Blendtec Designer Controls
Blending Programs:
Blendtec is best know for its Smart-Touch Tec-nology™. This allows you to “push a button and walk away” to have the blender run through a hands free automatic program cycle that stops when completed. (We don’t recommend actually walking away from the blender). While the Blendtec program cycles are very handy for some applications, we sometimes find the need to continue blending after the program completes to finish the job to our satisfaction or the cycle runs longer than what is needed to do the job. All Blendtec blenders also offer manual control as well for complete control. Higher cost Vitamix models such as the 750, and Ascent Series add program cycles to their operation. We find that the Vitamix program cycles are not as effective as Blendtec’s.
Your Vitamix will continue to run until manually shut off, when a cycle ends, or until the thermal protection kicks in to prevent overheating. Blendtec will automatically shut off after a maximum of 90 seconds of continuous blending (or when the chosen program cycle ends whichever is less).
Tamper:
For such a small part of the blender, the tamper has created a lot of discussion and debate regarding Blendtec vs Vitamix. Every Vitamix blender comes with a tamper to assist in blending solid and whole (uncut) foods without stopping the blender. The tamper is generally not needed for most applications but can be extremely helpful when chopping, making frozen entrees, nut butters and thick puddings. With the Blendtec blenders, sometimes additional liquid is needed to blend completely without stopping the blender to adjust the ingredients.
The introduction of the Blendtec Twister Jar gives Blendtec owners the ability tmake thick purees and small volume dishes with ease. With its unique “twister lid and tines”, that function similar to the Vitamix tamper, food can somewhat be directed into the blades while blending.
Dry Blending. Grain Grinding and Making Flour
Which blender makes flour and does dry blending? Do you need a Vitamix Dry Grains Container?
In our blender reviews and demonstrations we get a lot of questions about what the difference is in how these two blenders grind grain and make flour. We have done a lot of seed and grain grinding using all blending containers (Blendtec Fourside/WildSide, Vitamix standard “wet-blade” and Vitamix “dry-grains” container) to find how they truly compare.
Blendtec and the Vitamix Standard container can blend dry ingredients.
Dry Blending REVIEW RESULTS:
Both blenders have no issue with grinding large amounts of nuts or seeds, such as flax or sesame, although we generally prefer our dedicated coffee grinder for those tasks.
The Blendtec jars and Vitamix standard “wet blade” containers can grind wheat berries pretty well. The flour appears identical in texture and consistency. Our tests reveals that it takes slightly less time to grind the berries with the Blendtec if you are blending more than 2 cups at a time and the temperature of the flour is lower. Also, sifting the flour will reveal that the Blendtec does grind the flour slightly finer.
The Vitamix Dry Grains container appears to do a better job of grinding. In a shorter amount of time the flour is a little finer with a more consistent texture, and did not clump in the corners like it does with the Vitamix standard container. The Vitamix dry-blade is designed to produce an “opposite vortex” which evenly pushes the flour up the sides as it grinds, rather than pull ingredients down to the center.
Conclusion: it doesn’t matter which blender you choose, no additional container or blade is required for either blender. If your plans include occasional grain grinding, both the Blendtec and Vitamix Standard will do a great job. But, if you plan on doing a significant amount of grain grinding then the Vitamix dry grains container would be a wise investment, or having dedicated Blendtec Fourside container for flour is a good idea.
Or… as Blendtec recommends:
“To get a very fine grind and to keep the nutrients, always use the Kitchen Mill.”
The Blendtec Kitchen Mill is designed specifically for grain processing and does a superior job compared to any blender we have experienced.
Over time blending containers become cloudy and more opaque from grain grinding. Both Blendtec and Vitamix recommend a dedicated jar for grains for this reason, because of aesthetics.
Smoothie Making
Which one makes the best smoothie? Both blenders do an excellent job at turning out delicious fruit and vegetable smoothies. There is no question about that. In the great Vitamix/Blendtec debate, there is no need to be concerned whether or not either blender can perform.
We’ve used our Blendtec blenders thousands of times (they include a digital usage counter) and have found the program cycles alone do not always complete the blending to our satisfaction – but fear not, as every Blendtec offers manual speed control over your blending desires. For common blends and fruit smoothies the Blendtec program cycles are a great advantage. For specialty blends and green smoothies packed with greens it is sometimes necessary to do additional blending after running the Whole Juice cycle. We found the same results, even more so, with the Vitamix Professional Series program cycles. They work okay for simple smoothies but they tend to run too long and do not have a satisfying result with green smoothies.
With manual control, Vitamix (both the 5200 and 7500) consistently makes creamy, super smooth green smoothies without the need of the tamper no matter how much greens we pack in the container, but it takes practice. Blendtec’s newer models do a much improved job of creating super-smooth green smoothies as compared to their older models.
Both the Blendtec and the Vitamix process food sufficiently to break down plant cell walls. This makes more nutrients available for use in your body.
Juicing with a Blendtec or Vitamix
A common question by many is “can it juice?“. While both blenders make incredible smoothies, it is important to note that they are not “juicers”. What they do make is what we call “wholefood juice“. The important difference is that Juicers extract the liquid from ingredients by removing all the fiber and blenders do not remove anything from the whole food so you get all the natural fiber – thus a “wholefood juice”.
If you truly want to make juice without the fiber in your Vitamix or Blendtec, you need to take an extra step after blending. You have to strain the wholefood juice to remove the fiber and pulp. While not as effective as a juicer, you can accomplish this using cheesecloth or a nut milk bag.
If you plan on juicing a lot then you should consider a quality juicer – see the juicers we recommend.
Clean Up
Unlike general kitchen blenders, neither the Blendtec nor Vitamix have an easy option to remove the bottom blade housing to access the jar for cleaning. They both are easy to clean but Blendtec is easier.
The 2 prong blade and smooth square design of the Blendtec jars make it easier to remove your blended goodness and clean than the more narrow, 4 prong blade Vitamix design. The Vitamix New Generation low-profile container is wider and results in easier access than the taller containers but is still not as easy to clean down near the blades as Blendtec jars.
Clean up is easy by putting in some hot water with soap and blending. A little hand washing can finish up the job if necessary. The most important factor for easy clean up is to wash your container immediately after use. Blend, wash, and done.
*Dishwasher machine use: some readers have shared that they put their containers in the dishwasher to clean. Blendtec states that it is okay to put their jar in the dishwasher while Vitamix states that you should not. We recommend that you don’t put either Blendtec or Vitamix containers in the dishwasher – continual dishwasher use will compromise the seal and bearings of the blade housing over time due to extreme temperatures and detergents If you have older containers that are not BPA-Free they will out-gas. We have had Blendtec customers tell us that their dishwasher had damaged their containers, which is NOT covered under warranty. If you risk it, place them on the top rack.
Comparison Chart
| Vitamix Classic & E320 | Vitamix Ascent Series | Blendtec Total & Designer | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 20.5" x 7.25" x 8.75" 17.5" x 7.7" x 9.4" |
11" x 8" x 17" | 15.5" x 7" x 8" | |||
| Height | 20.5 inches high 17.25 (with Compact container) |
17.5 inches tall | 15.5 inches high | |||
| Speed Controls | High/Low and Variable Speed 0 to 5 Pre-programs |
Variable Speed and Pulse 0 to 5 Pre-programs |
8 to 100 speeds (plus Pulse) 4 to 6 Pre-programs |
|||
| RPMs | ~500 – ~37,000 RPMs | ? | ~ 4,080 – ~28,000 RPMs | |||
| Green Smoothies | Super Smooth | Super Smooth | Super Smooth | |||
| Power | 1380 watts 11-12 AMPS (2.1 – 2.2 HP) |
2.2 HP 12 AMPS |
1560 – 1725 watts 13 – 15 AMPS (3.0 – 3.8 HP) |
|||
| Containers Available |
64 oz. Short 64 oz. 48 oz 32 oz |
SELF-DETECT Technology Short 64 oz. |
75 oz. FourSide 90 oz. WildSide 37 oz. Twister Mini WildSide |
|||
| Grains | Yes | Yes | Yes | |||
| Blade | 4 prong Stainless Steel | 4 prong Stainless Steel | 2 prong Stainless Steel | |||
| User Control |
Switches Variable Speed Dial Program Buttons |
Switches and Buttons Variable Speed Dial Timer Program Buttons |
One-Touch Buttons Pre-program cycles |
|||
| Warranty | 5 to 7-year | 10-year | 8 to 10-years | |||
| Colors Available |
Black, White, Red, Blue, Expresso, Brushed Stainless or Platinum |
Black, White, Red, Brushed Stainless or Platinum | MANY Black, White, Red, Steel, Green, Blue, Purple… |
|||
| Reconditioned | Yes | No | Yes | |||
| Starting Price | » $300 | » $450 | » $280 |
Bottom Line – Which blender is better for YOU?
- you prefer high-tech computer controlled – digital display blenders
- you like to push a button and have your blender control your blends
- you are space limited and need a shorter blender
- easier clean up is important
- you travel a lot with your blender
Vitamix may serve you better if:
- you prefer total control over the speed and time of blending
- you like a more solid, industrial feel blender
- you prefer simple mechanical buttons and dials
- you blend small volumes and thick purees
No matter which brand you chose to buy – you will own a top quality blender!
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Which blender do you Choose? BLENDTEC or VITAMIX – Why?
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254 Comments
Join the discussion and tell us your opinion.
I have been completely dissapointed with the lack of support from vitamix. If you call them all you get is put on hold. If you email you do not get a reply. If you post asking for help on their Facebook page they delete you withouty replying. I can not afford to keep burining up my minutes being on hold forever. It is unacceptable how they now treat you. They seem to no longer have any level of quality in customer support!
If you do not believe me just call them and see how long they will make you wait. Expect to waste at least a half hour minimum.
I’m really torn between the new Blendtec Designer Series and a Vitamix but your review is so thorough I’m confident the Vitamix is the best choice for me. I can’t buy the Designer Series in Canada yet anyway and I’m tired of chunkie smoothies!
I’ve had my VitaMix for over 6 years… I lOvE it and, oh, by the way… There’s nothing I’ve not been able to make or create in it. I believe my VitaMix has more than paid for itself just in “smoothie” making, let alone the savings by making my own almond butter, peanut butter, “gourmet” frozen mocha drinks or soups. I promise, you, too, will be so glad you invested in a VitaMix!
PS: you’ll end up ridding your cupboards of all of your other prep appliances, except your food processor and KitchenAid mixer!
i GOT A vITA mIX IN THE ’80S AND IT DID A PRETTY GOOD JOB OF B LENDING, ETC. iT WAS FRUSTRATING THAT TWICE, the blades did not work and I have to get new ones at about $70 so it was n ot cheap. I am looking at BlendTec to see if that is better. Now I feel like just getting cheap blenders and replace those since it might be cheaper.
Costco demo demonstrated the blendtec single blunt blade design creates a vortex sucking the ingredients down to be blended while the Vitamix shoots it upward. Advantage Blendtec I guess but does it make a difference.
Sounds like you need to cut vegtables into smaller pieces for the Blendtec – Advantage Vitamix
80 years of good reputation and customer service – Advantage Vitamix
Blendtec appears to aesthetically fit better into a home – Advantage Blendtec.
Blendtec on sale at Costco for $349.99- Advantage Blendtec and ultimately my decision maker unless Vitamix can match it.
Vitamix also creates a downward vortex like most every blender. Their dry grains container pushes grains up the sides to facilitate more efficient grinding. If you are looking for a Vitamix deal you can get a Reconditioned Vitamix for $329 for a limited time.
I’ve had my Blendtec for a year and use it for my veggie smoothies each morning. What I don’t like is the extreme noise level and have to leave the kitchen while it’s running. The Blendtec company suggested putting a mouse pad under the blender to reduce the noise…it helped somewhat, but still too noisy for me. The plastic cap that fits into the rubber lid is hard to clean. Other then these two problems, it blends well, but not worth the $$ for my limited use. Understand the Vita Mix is as noisy, so have given up the idea of purchaseing.
Thank you for an unbiased and comprehensive comparison. I think it has helped me decide on the Vitamix with the 48 oz container. I have been reading review after review and was getting stressed out! lol
Donna
I’ve been a Vita-mix user since the late 70’s. Over that time I have upgraded and given my older blender away as others have said. I have not used a Blend-tec blender, but have no need too. If all the items I’ve ever bought, worked as well as the Vita-mix, I’d be one happy camper. Product quality, exceptional customer service, continued health concerns are the VM way. I use it daily to prepare healthy smoothies and have never been disappointed. It’s the reason why so many commercial food & beverage people use the VM. Check it out the next time you order a frozen drink or smoothie. Amazing product & company. Looking forward to many more years of healthy smoothies and food preparation with my Vita-Mix.
Great comparison! I want to make puddings and ice creams and nut butters too.
There is quite a difference in price if I want to be able to do everything in a Blendtec that the Vitamix can do. The Vitamix @ $450 compared to the Blendtec @ $560 with the Twister jar (@600 with the Wildside and Twister jars). I’m going with the Vitamix thank you.
We are a Vita Mix Family! One of the five Vita Mix blenders we own has been handed down and still runs after 30 years! My girls love theirs and they make everything from hot soup to ice cream. My husband makes healthy flaxseed shakes and the flaxseeds are ground so fine you dont know they are there. Even the tiny strawberry seeds and apple cores are ground up fine. Got a couple at a homeshow, but the best deal was my daughter’s which we got on In the Kitchen with David on QVC home shopping. Great price and free extras including stainless steel travel mugs and cookbook were included! Best quality of anything I have ever purchased!
Our family has five Vita Mix blenders! One is over 30 (Yes I said 30!!) years old and still runs like a top!That one is all stainless steel and it was in the family before I got it! My girls love theirs and make everything from hot soup to ice cream. My husband makes super healthy flaxseed shakes and it grinds up the flaxseed so fine you dont even know they are in there. With strawberries the tiny seeds grind up fine also. No grit..Super Smooth! We use it several times a day and Love it! Even grinds up apple cores which has more vitamins and fiber. Bought some at homeshows and some on In the Kitchen with David on QVC home shopping on tv. You can go to qvc.com. We got best deal on QVC with extras like travel mugs and cookbooks included. We have been loyal for over 30 years and wouldn’t use anything else. We Love Vitamix!!
WE OWN A VITAMIX AND LOVE IT! IT’S GREAT TO KNOW, THAT THESE TWO GREAT PRODUCTS ARE MADE RIGHT HERE IN THE U.S.A.!!
If I had read this comparison a couple of years ago I would have realized that the Vitamix was more than I actually needed. I just gave mine to my step-son who loves to cook and was thrilled to receive it. Now I’m going to purchase the Blendtec knowing it is really the one that fits my needs. Thank you for the most informative and unbiased article comparing these two wonderful machines.
I saw the BlendTec being demonstrated at Costco tonight. I can see how the BlendTec would be really nice for travel because it is very lightweight compared to the Vitamix. One thing I was disturbed about is that the guy knocked the Vitamix left and right, bragged about how the BlendTec could “destroy” a broomstick and cell phone (impressive, but unnecessary).
After sampling what he made with the BlendTec, I can say that the ice cream still had tiny pieces of ice in it but the Vitamix makes ice cream that is *very* smooth. He heated the water before putting it in the BlendTec to make soup (not necessary with the Vitamix). He cut the vegetables rather small before putting in the BlendTec (not necessary with the Vitamix) and only filled the BlendTec container half-full (Vitamix can be filled to the top).
I really appreciate the review given here. Very informative without being biased. For me, I am biased, and after having sampled both, I’ve decided on the Vitamix.
I have had a Vitamix since 1984 and it is still working. Stopped working many years ago out of warranty, sent to Vitamix along with $50, and they fixed and returned it. To say I am satisfied with it is an understatement!
Just to update – Vitamix always seems to win the “warranty” battle, but I bought a blendtec combination (2 jars) from Costco and it says all over the box 8 year warranty. In the manual it states a full 8 years, everything seems to be covered.
A very good comparison!
I try to avoid anything that is computer controlled if I have a choice. The electronics will likely fail long before the equivalent mechanical, especially in a remote lightning-prone area with frequent power surges/brown-outs. Also, a simple electronic failure is usually expensive, as in ‘new computer board from the manufacturer’ instead of ‘new switch from Radio Shack’.
Keep It Simple!
We have had a Blendtec purchased from Costco for about 2 years. We love it and have had no blending performance or mechanical/electrical problems of any kind. Works exactly as advertised. The pre-programmed settings for most needs are a plus IMO.
No first-hand experience with Vitamix. However, I did notice when visiting my son in Brooklyn that the local Baskin-Robbins had two Blendtecs behind the counter, so they must be good and durable.
Appearancewise (demos at Costco), the Vitamix looks like some sort of cheap Walmart houseware, but I understand from the comments here that it too is apparently a quality, robust machine. Either likely a good choice depending on what kind of discount you can arrange and what are your priorities.
What a great comparison! Than you for making it available. If I buy one, I think I’ll go with the Vita-Mix.
It’s really refreshing to find an unbiased comparison.
I enjoyed this review and it answered most of my questions. Either one seems to be a good product. I have a Vitamix 5000 for 8 years. I thought I destroyed it when I absently mindedly left a spoon in it. Turned it on and had to rush to the bathroom. When I got back the motor was spinning but no action in the container. I discovered a destroyed metal spoon in my smoothie. I called Vitamix and they informed me that there was a fail safe designed to prevent motor or internal damage which basically is a shear device that is owner replaceable without taking the unit apart and the cost was $12.00. That was 6 months ago and it still runs as good as the day it was purchased. The blade/bearing assembly is replaceable, but all I had to do is remove the blade and touch up a few small nicks and it works as good as ever. I like the ability to control the time and speed to blend to my preference. Bottom line, the Vitamix is commercial/professional quality and that is why you see the pros use them.
Have owned a Vitamix from Costco for 6 months. Really enjoy this machine as a newbie to the green smoothie crowd. A few complaints that have kept me from LOVED this machine. 1. It’s ugly. 2. The size; The fact that it doesn’t fit under my cabinet really decreases the flexibility of my kitchen. 3. The biggest complaint would be the shape of the container. Very difficult to get thick things out of the bottom. 4. Would be happy if we don’t need to use the tamper.
Going to give the Blendtec a try for next couple weeks to see if it makes smoothies as smooth as our Vitamix. I’m a little concerned by the fact the blade isn’t sharp.
Frank,
What’s your info on the Blendtec? Does it make them just as smooth as the Vitamixer?
Thanks
Qvc currently selling vitamix about $4o cheaper than most others with free shipping and handling…thx for reviews……
I think I’ll take the Reconditioned Vitamix direct from Vitamix for even cheaper ($379) with free shipping and get the 7 year warranty (qvc is only 5)
Jeni -The reconditioned Vitamix from the Vitamix company only comes with a 5-year warranty. Still worth it for the huge savings in my opinion.
Correct. Currently Vitamix reduced the price of the reconditioned units from $379 to $329 with a 5-year warranty. An excellent savings indeed.
Also, you can get an 8-year warranty for an additional $75 if you like.
Wow, I am torn. I just bought a Blendtec Total Blender yesterday after seeing a demo at Costco. I hadn’t even heard of Blendtec before and was considering buying a Vitamix 5200, but I really liked the square Blendtec container and ease of getting stuff out of it, the nice high-tech look and that it would fit under my kitchen cabinet on the counter.
Then I found this site, and it seems that overall folks prefer the Vitamix. I admit that I don’t think it looks as nice, and it seems that it would be a pain to get everything out of the narrower base and with four prongs. But I could order mine with the compact 48 oz. container, which would be plenty big for me I think.
Also, a main reason for buying a heavy duty blender for me is to grind grains to make gluten-free flours, which are really expensive in the store. After reading this site, it seems that the Blendtec won’t be able to grind finely enough for a really fine flour consistency, which is important or I’ll end up with a grainy consistency in my baked goods. Also, the fact that one poster said that when she used the Blendtec container to grind wheat, it permanently clouded and scratched the container which is alarming. The separate Blendtec grain mill costs $179, and I can get a dry Vitamix container for much less I’m sure.
I think I’ll return the Blendtec to Costco and get a Vitamix with dry and wet containers (48 oz.).
Many thanks for this great site and for all the very helpful comments and blog posts!
my Blendtec motor blew after only 116 green food drinks Has anyone else had a problem this early?
I haven’t had that happen but I did just return my blendtec to costco after having it 2 weeks. The motor started smoking everytime I used it.
After reading the review I will not be replacing the blendtec but will be ordering a vitamix. I am SO EXCITED!
I have had a Vitamix 5200 for 2 years now and I absolutely love it. Like many here I was torn on which to purchase. I had originally seen the Blendtec at a Costco demo and was wowed. A friend recommended that I look at the Vitamix before I jumped in and bought the Blendtec.
What made the difference to me was that I really liked the manual controls on the Vitamix. I have had too many digital do-dads that have their digital readouts or switches break and I liked the simplicity of the Vitamix.
What really swayed me was the Vitamix affiliate program. Four hundred and fifty bucks is a lot to plunk down on a blender and the affiliate program allowed me to recommend the blender to friends and family. Pretty cool. I was able to cover the cost of my purchase in just 6 months.
Honestly, I think the Blendtec is a great blender. The real winners here are the people getting more whole fruits and veggies in their diets!
I just ordered the Blendtec for my wife.
I cant wait to see my wife’s face when she opens that box (Its a anniversary gift).
I did tons of research before purchasing my Vitamix (reading this blog included), and chose it for the edge it was said to have in smoothie smoothness and because of the tamper for making ice creams, etc. I just returned it and purchased the Blendtec instead. I found that I had to use the tamper for EVERYTHING–even to stir whole food juices just to keep the contents moving through the container. It was a lot of work on my part to make anything. Also, sometimes the ingredients would “spit” up the middle and while the ice and food would definitely pulverize, the juice would be separate from the slush making a very chunky texture. Customer service gave me some advise about using the variable speed, but after two months I still felt that there was quite a learning curve. Maybe you need to be chef to really be able to master the control knobs:) For $450 I just found that I was disappointed and things like it not fitting under the counter and not being able to get all of the ice cream out of the narrow base and from around the four pronged blade started to be a much bigger deal. I decided to get the Blendtec instead with it’s alternate technology (it sucks contents down with it’s two pronged design). I haven’t used it very much yet–I do think I will miss the tamper for ice cream (I was able to get a pretty hard served texture without having to add as much liquid), but I am excited about the Blender doing it’s job without so much of my know-how and arm strength needed. and I am excited to make guacamole in the blender again knowing that I can get it all out! We’ll see, but I voted Vitamix and have officially changed my vote.
Just when I narrowed it down to the vitamix I seen an imformercial for the Ninja. Does anyone know of an elaborate comparison like this between the vitamix and the ninja?
I can’t believe you are asking about the Ninja! I just saw one. I’m shopping for a new blender and really want a Vitamix.
My friend from church just bought a Ninja Professional from Walmart so I got to see it in action. I’ve seen the Vitamix in action too and they just don’t compare. The Ninja seems like just a normal blender with a fancy blade. The smoothie we made just didn’t get smooth. She’s thinking about taking it back.
Be sure to see it in person before you buy it. Things can be very different on TV than in real life.
After months of research I finally made up my mind and bought the Vitamix 5200. I must say that I’m in love! I use it every day, sometimes twice a day! Today I made a smoothie with an orange with the seeds, cherries with the pit, carrots, frozen berries, and even a beet! Everything comes out extremely smooth. You wouldn’t have even known there was cherry pits and orange seeds in there!! I couldn’t be more happy!!
I have had my Vitamix for over 10 years. I make green smoothies almost every day with it. Most of the time, the tamper is not even needed! The only time I use the tamper is when I have added a lot of ice and it gets too thick & frozen near the blades. I do like the look of the blendtec container, and thought about getting one, but would be afraid that it won’t be as good. I feel that “if it’s not broke, don’t fix it!” so if it goes out, I guess I will stick to the Vitamix and get another one.
I have owned both blenders and the Blendtec Total Blender is by far superior to the Vita-Mix 5200. This review is dead wrong about the Blendtec jars not being dishwasher safe. Both of Blendtec’s jars ARE dishwasher safe and clean up nicely in the dishwasher.
My main complaint about the Vita-mix is when I tried to liquify globe grapes (seeded). I always found small seeds at the bottom of my jar regardless of how long I left it blending. With the Blendtec, using the Whole Juice button, none of those seeds exist or can be found.
I have no idea what this review is talking about regarding the Vita-mix making smoother smoothies. We switched over to the Blendtec blender because the Vita-mix leaves small chunks of frozen fruits, even when we used the plunger. Oh, BTW the plunger was lost in our kitchen and we couldn’t make smoothies very well without it.
Also, I travel a lot and like to take my blender with me. The Vita-mix is bigger, bulkier, and is heavier than the Blendtec, so my choice was an easy one: Blendtec is the overall winner in our house.
I rarely post my comments on sites like this, but when I read such glaring mistakes, I was compelled to correct those errors.
sam, thank you for sharing your experience and opinion regarding Blendtec and Vitamix.
There is no mention of jars not being dishwasher safe, we just recommend not to put them in the dishwasher for a couple of reasons. 1 – older blendtec containers are not BPA-Free and placing them in the dishwasher will cause out-gassing. 2 – Over time the continual use of a dishwasher will compromise the seal and bearings of the blade housing due to the extreme temperatures and detergents.
Regarding Vitamix making smoother smoothies, that is only with regard to green smoothies. In our experience in making thousands of green smoothies in both the Vitamix and Blendtec it became clear to us that the Vitamix 5200 makes smoother green smoothies. As mentioned in the review both blenders make excellent fruit smoothies without notable differences whether using fresh or frozen fruit.
Regarding the Vitamix tamper/”plunger”, we never use it for smoothie making. If you are making smoothies properly in a Vitamix you should rarely ever need to use the tamper even if you are using frozen fruits. The tamper is useful for making thick puddings and sauces or to process large food items with minimal liquid.
We have never tried to liquify globe grapes with seeds but if you needed to use the tamper for smoothie making and did experience chunks of frozen fruits, it is likely that there was some other issues with how you were trying to make your smoothie.
As we always say, both blenders are fantastic and which one to choose is really about personal preference and how you use your blender. Traveling is a big plus for choosing the Blendtec as it is smaller and lighter. It is great to hear that you are so satisfied with your Blendtec – thank you again for sharing.
Sam,
I respectfully do not agree that the Blendtec is far superior to the Vitamix. I don’t mean this as an argument, I just think something was wrong with your Vitamix. I don’t often post on products either, but was compelled to do so when I saw that people were torn in trying to decide which to buy. I wanted to share my experience in case it helped.
In your case, I think I would come to the same conclusion. I wouldn’t think much of the Vitamix either if that had ever happened to me. As I posted above (before I saw your comment), I have had a Vitamix for over 10 years. not once has it ever left ANYTHING in the bottom! The worst that will happen is that it gets too thick at the bottom and I have to add a tiny bit more liquid. Even flax seeds in my green smoothie get pulverized and you can’t see them anymore (I like them only partially ground, so I had to start grinding them in my coffee grinder and gently mixing them in by hand). I’m wondering if it’s possible that at some point, there was a whole bad batch of the Vitamix, because I have heard of one other person that had the same problem. Every one else I’ve talked to has had an experience like mine.
I have been making green smoothies almost every day. As I stated above, I don’t even use the tamper -unless I put a little too much ice and it freezes up (or I don’t use enough liquid).
I’m not doubting or disputing the fact at all that the Blendtec is awesome as well, just wanted to point out a different experience.
I purchsed the Vitamix at the Dallas Fair then after a few months I purchased Blendtec at Costco. I chose Blendtec because of the convenience of the buttons and which power to use. I liked that over the vitamix. It seemed I was always guessing on the vitamix and felt the vitamix would explode everytime I turned HIGH POWER up. I am very pleased with Blendtec!
Vitamix blenders are made in America. Cleveland, Ohio!!
Blendtecs are made in the USA! UTAH..we asked that question before we bought it.
We have both machines. We use both of them several times every day. …and we love, love, love them both.
They are different.
To me, the Blendtec is like a toy Ferrari. It is fast. It is loud. It wails. It doesn’t look or sound like it would, but it does stay in place on the counter, but just barely. (When you first get one be sure to hold the lid on because until it is ‘broken in’ it can wiggle loose (we watched it do it—hubby didn’t believe me so he had to prove it was operator error; thus, we put a couple smoothies on the ceiling until the lid ‘warmed up’). If you are going for smooth, it does make a superior smoothie—it micronizes EVERYTHING to a smooth liquid if you run it 2 – 3 times at power 10 for the full 50 seconds (watch your temp though—add ice if needed). Also, it is light enough that we can travel (fly) with it.
The VitaMix 5200 is a workhorse. There is just no comparison. If I could only have one, it would be the VitaMix. I think it is more versatile (more control with the manual knobs) for doing sauces, soups, chopping veggies, and blending things where I really care about texture and heat. My husband actually prefers his smoothies most of the time from the VitaMix because they are thicker.
I have both a Vitamix and a Blendtec blender. The blendtec is smaller in overall size, but not in volume it will blend. It stores very nicely under the counter with the jar on the base. The vitamix ends up in a cupboard because it does not fit the same way.
The Blendtec is louder, but not that much, and it is programmable and it does anything I want it to do and I don’t have to stand there and babysit it. So I can have it make 2 quarts worth of whatever, then keep doing something else.
I am partial to the Blendtec, smaller, lighter, more powerful, stores well under the cabinet and usually does what I need in less time (less time for the noise in the kitchen) and I don’t have to babysit it like the Vitamix. Also I have made smoothies side by side and the Vitamix overheats much much faster than the Blendtec.
All in all Blendtec gets my vote… Besides – they are more cutting edge on the technology side – did you read the article about the patent infringement Blendtec was awarded in Federal court against Vitamix?
I do not work for Blendtec, or Vitamix. I just like them both, but the blendtec won me over – simply and powerful!
Lawsuit article:
http://www.heraldextra.com/news/local/article_b9e2c1ea-6a50-5639-b982-a84412e93a39.html
The Blendtec definitely wins in the “smaller size” department – that tends to be the major deciding point for many.
With Vitamix”s introduction of the new 48-ounce container it is more than 3 inches shorter and fits under standard cabinets like the Blendtec (although it is a smaller volume).
The lawsuit wasn’t really about technology – it was about container shape. These 2 companies constantly file infringements against each other
Thats a incorrect. I work with motors. The Vitamix has a much robust motor the weight and size speaks for that and is more energy efficient. Maybe that the reason owners had the machine for 10,15 and20 years. Vitamix use commercial motors plus the machine is UL and SA certified.
We bought a Vitamix about ten years ago and only used it a few times a month. Imagine my surprise when the blade froze up on one of the containers. Then just last year the blade froze up again. I was able to find a replacement blade and container from another source than Vitamix, but it still cost in the $100 range. I just bought a Blendtec to give it a try and for its more compact disign, and will give my Vitamix to a relative if I keep the Blendtec. I noticed that Blendtec suggests that one shake out any loose water if letting it drain upside down while drying and also to manually rotate the blade if sitting unused for a while. I suspect that might be good advice for the Vitamix also.
I’m not familiar with the Vitamix blades of 10 years ago but we have not heard of any “freezing” issues with the current vitamix blade.
The blade is guaranteed for 7 years like the motor – and if you ever do need to replace a Vitamix blade, you can do so without having to replace the container (and vice-versa) since they come apart easily. The Blendtec blade and container is one unit.
It’s always a good idea to NOT let your blender sit unused for long. You did buy the blender to use it after all 😉
The blades on a Vitamix or Blendtec are just like a good set of knives there are dos and donts. first and foremost, dont ever leave them soaking in water and never wash them in a dishwasher. The blades will freeze up losing their ability to spin easy free because of the moderate or fast damage to it inner components.
I haven’t used the vitamix, have only used the blendtec, which is great. I bought my blendtec at Costco, and have a 7 year warranty, because Costco adds 4 years to the existing warranty. I spent less money and got the same warranty.
I’ve had a vitamix for 13 years. LOVE IT! Also, my parents and grandparents had one years ago as well. They last forever! I recently bought a new container for about $30 as mine was looking clouded. The blades are still fine after all these years! I love super smooth green drinks…my kids love them too!
I swear by the Blendtec. I have owned two Vitamix machines. I bought the first one around 1982. When it broke the company did not honor the warranty, which I believe back then was a lifetime warranty. I bought a new Vitamix machine. But I found it difficult to use. The salesperson makes it seem like it is so easy, but I found it difficult to use and cumbersome to store.
I have owned the Blendtec for four years and have had no problems. And, as the company has upgraded the system, they have upgraded my machine with no extra cost. Whenever I contacted Vitamix for new parts or help, customer service was not helpful and they charged me for things I needed. Not so with Blendtec.
I have a Vitamix 5200 and have used it almost daily for over two years making fruit/protein smoothies. I bought the machine at Costco and also bought a dry container (which I hardly ever use). I buy fruit which as soon as it is ripe i cut up and put in the freezer. My typical smoothie ingredients: grapes (red globe seeded, green, black), plums, blueberries, Protein powder, flaxseed meal, nutritional yeast, ginger root, mixed frozen fruit (from Costco has variety of, mango, peach, strawberry, etc).I pour in a little olive oil and grapeseed oil and warm or hot water to help defrost the frozen ingredients. Also, I usually add two fresh bananas. Blend it all up and it runs on high (while I put away the supplies) for probably 1-3 minutes. I wish the container was bigger than 64 ounces since I have to share with my two teenage boys. But they love them too! I know how to add just the right amount so that I can carefully take off the lid and the container is full to the rim.
I lusted after a Vitamix for over 20 years and am glad I finally got one. I used many, many inferior blenders before my Vitamix. However, I use a Breville juicer for vegetables, I can’t stand the Vitamix “foam” that it makes from vegetables. That’s OK, I love the smoothies enough to replace the Vitamix if it ever broke.
For those wanting the Vitamix but looking for a shorter solution – you may want to check out the Vitamix 48oz option.
http://gotgreensrevolution.com/go/vitamix/Short-48-ounce/
It’s only a little taller than the Blendtec.
I just purchased the Blendtec after purchasing a Vitamix prior to purchasing the Bledtec. I like the Vitamix a lot better. Blendtec shakes a lot while blending which makes it look like it’s going to take off. Also, if the lid is not pushed in, the content inside the blender leaks out which is annoying. Another thing is the soup button on the Blendtec needs to be pushed several times before the soup heats up. Overall, the Vitamix is better for yuor money, more sturdy and offers more warranty.
I own the vitamix 5200 and use it for many things, frozen lemonade, grinding my own flour, ice cream, soups, whole juice and many more.
I saw a blendtec demonstrated at costco, also where I bought my vitamix, and watched the man do similar things my vitamix did. The fresh fruit smothie wasn’t as blended as the vitamix, had seeds left in it that were whole.
Sometimes I have a hard time of making the things I see deomonstrated the same way, need to add more ice, more water, or a combination? However, this is user issue and not the vitamix. I was going to get the blendtec but I would have to run it longer and for more cycles to get the same result as my vitamix but like the lighter weight and shorter height of the blendtec. Tough call.
I purchased the Blendtec from costco after I got the Vitamix. Blendtec is not what it’s slated to be. I’m returning it since I’m not at all happy with it. Like you, I wanted to smaller container to fit under the cabinet, but the performance of the Blendtec is pretty poor.
I’m a fairly new user of a Blendtec Total Blender and I’ve been very pleased with it so far! The push button settings and digital display are easy and convenient. I dump everything in, push the button that matches what I’m trying to make and let it go. Recently made cashew honey nut butter by literally pushing 2 buttons. 🙂
Ok, here is your bummer. The other day at Sam’s Club the Blendtec demo man was making smoothies. I walk up and he is using a spatula to push down the ice while the blender is on. I say “Hey u should not have to do that. He says, “It sometimes happens with the big chunks.” I say, “Vitamix has that tamper thing to do that and Blendtec says that with its two bladed system a tamper is not needed.” He says “Well…no sometimes the ice gets stuck at the top.” Then he uses the spatula to remove the offending chunk of ice…it is an oval about 4”x3”x1/2” thick…bummer…the Blendtec should have literally chewed that up. The decision was made for me…it’s Vitamix for sure. I was bummed, because I truly thought Blendtec had them all beat, but if u need a tamper then u might as well go with Vitamix…the warranty is better. I was really surprised.
I had to fix the 1/2′ error…it’s 1/2″
We have had the Vitamix for years and use it at least once per day if not 2 or 3 times. We make fruit drinks, frappuccino’s, soups, salsa, peanut butter, beans, and the list goes on…we LOVE it. We did have the dial start giving us some trouble but their customer service was amazing!!! They sent us a call tag and we sent it in when we were leaving on vacation to Chicago, since we can’t go a day without it while home and it was back completely fixed within a couple of days…it was so quick that I thought it never made it to them. I highly recommend this product and I don’t even work for the company!
Hey, Elaine! Thanks for your comment. I’m so glad you enjoy your Vitamix. I am considering whether to buy the Vitamix 5200 or the Blendtec Wildside. I have two questions for you and hope you can help as I can’t seem to find the answers anywhere: 1. In your experience, could the Vitamix blend a carafe full of sliced fruits and veggies completely on its own, without the aide of the tamper, or any water or juice, or ice? (I have seen the Blendtec do this in demos, but not the Vitamix)
2. Have you had any problems blending hard frozen fruit right out of the freezer, such as strawberries? Thanks so much for your generous help! Happy Blending to you!
Although I did not test these products, the Vita-Mix will be able to blend fruit without liquid just as long as you place the most water rich fruits at the base (like grapes). You might need to use the tamper if fruit gets wedged together before it gets down to the blade, but that’s with any blender. Here is a video of blending fruit with only yogurt:
http://community.vitamix.com/_Berry-Purple-Smoothie/video/875975/22442.html
Cheers
I blend hard frozen fruits (strawberries, mixed berries, banana and mangoes) right out of the freezer every morning in the Vitamix. I had no trouble whatsoever. Smoothies come out super smooth and delicious.
My experience with the Vitamix is that it does a lot better if you add some liquid, or blend something first until it turns into liquid and then add more fiberous or frozen things. You have to do this with most blenders. This is not a deal breaker or even much of an inconvenience. It doesn’t change the taste of your smoothie if you have to add a tiny bit of liquid. I actually keep really healthy juices on hand like acai to use for blending for that extra bit of nutrition and flavor, but you won’t notice a little water in there either.
The Blendtec machine requires water to operate (this disclaimer is also in the directions for use). It tells you that you have to put food in a specific order to get good results. Not so with the Vitamix. I bought the blendtec and have had it for a couple months but it will NOT blend frozen bananas and strawberries. I have to put it through 2-3 cycles or I will have a “chunkie” not a “smoothie. So it can blend cell phones and Ipads but not frozen fruit…hmmm curious. Thank god for Costco’s return policy.
My brother in law was considering the two and I suggested the Vitamix even before reading this review. I plan to sell a few other items around the kitchen to go get the Vitamix myself instead.
One other thing, the Blendtec may be lighter and thus more “portable”, but it really does feel like its made from brittle plastic and as a result I never feel comfortable just leaving it to bounce and blend on the counter. And loud, the Blendtec is really LOUD!!!!!!!
I just bought a Blendtec today after a demo at Cosco. It looked good and made excellent ice cream, soup, and smoothies which I sampled. I brought it home and fired it up. All I can say is that the noise was so noticeable that I had to run for the earplugs. I have owned a Vita Mix and the noise was tolerable and it had a much more industrial feel. Fortunately Blendtec has a 30 day return policy.
I’m returning the Blendtec also.
I love my costco Blendtec! Go to the road show and see it in action. I use it every day to make smoothies and my baby’s food…
Just went to Costco and Blendtec was doing a demonstration, what a magnificent machine. makes hot soups, cold smoothies, veggie drinks, fruit drinks, ice cream. who wouldn’t want one, and it’s cheaper than the vitamix and more horsepower, watts, wider container, bpa free. This is Promo.
Thanks for the fantastic review and feedback. Of course, I’m still debating which is the correct blender for me. My solution is to buy both and use them side by side for a month then return the blender I like the least. (Thank goodness for Costco’s very generous return policy!)
Did you do this (compare them side by side?) Which one did you like best??
Thank you so much for all the information. I just ordered a refurbished Vitamix from their site with the benefit of the $25 off promotion code from your site. I am very excited to have my new blender!
Your VitaMix vs. BlendTec article was great! It was exactly what I was looking for: detailed info comparing real world usage. Thanks!
I got the Blendtec. I like it but have a few complaints.
I grind wheat to make bread; as a result the container has gotten completely beat up and clouded so as I can’t see what’s in the container anymore to know if it has blended all the way. It also makes me wonder, if the container is so soft to get clouded up by wheat, what’s going into my food?
Anyone know how the vitamix 5200 containers hold up with grinding wheat?
I also stopped using the pre-sets pretty much all together as they really don’t get the job done. I’ll use them sometimes to get things started but end up blending more to finish anyway.
What I do like is the super power, the low profile and the ease of gettting stuff out.
There is no comparison for me – the Blendtec is the clear winner. It’s more powerful, much better looking, digital, compact and fits on my counter under my kitchen cabinets. It’s so powerful I’ve never needed any kind of “tamper” – who needs one more clumsy plastic part floating around the kitchen? I also love the large square pitcher — it’s so easy to rinse out, and to get food from the very bottom of the pitcher. It’s much more difficult to get food out from around the tiny bottom and the four blades on the Vitamix.
I don’t like the new top that the Blendtecs are shipping with – it’s vented for heat which is great for hot soups but it takes a few more seconds to clean now.
But I freaking LOVE my Blendtec — I use it every day and can make just about ANYTHING in it!
I agree 100%. I use my Blendtec everyday, often more than once, and I wanted an appliance I could leave on my counter and enjoying looking at as much as using. Like you, I love the square container and ease of removing the food.
I make a lot of whole fruit and veggie smoothies and find them incredibly smooth, no chunks or issues at all, even with frozen ingredients. Even with the thickest dips I’ve never needed a tamper.
I was on a cooking spree yesterday to clean out the fridge and used the Blendtec to make: eggplant and fresh green pea dip, beet borstch, carrot and curry soup, cream of spinach with romano cheese, grind up spices for a chicken curry and make two smoothies for breakfast as well.
My only complaint is that the jar itself gets stained a bit from curries and other very highly colored foods. I don’t grind flour (we’re gluten free) so I can’t comment on its’ capabilities for that. Oh, I do wish the lid were a little easier to seat securely. Make certain it is completely sealed or you will have a heck of a mess
All in all, a great purchase that is a perfect complement to my centrifugal juicer. I actually look for recipes to make specifically so I can use it! Yes, it is LOUD – the cats go running, but it works so well and so quickly that I can deal with it.
We’ll see how it performs a couple of years from now.
If you are going to invest this kind of money in a blender, spend the little bit extra and get the Vitamix. Sure, you can save a few dollars if buying a Blendtec but you get much less… an inferior warranty and a product that is lightweight and brittle by comparison. Look at them side by side and pick them up. It’s pretty obvious.
I seriously doubt a Blendtec will last 20+ years of continuous use like Vitamix has proven to. Do yourself a favor and spend the extra for a much superior product.
Hi Tom and everyone else. I am a petite woman and am wondering if the vitamix filled with nut pate or whatever will be a bit cumbersone to lift.
what has delayed me from deciding between the two blenders is also wondering if i make a nut pate or cocoa avocodo mousse if it gets stuck on the bottom like in the hemilton blender i now use.. the only way i can get out my costly ingredients from my Hemilton is to add cold water and drink it… oh well there goes dessert. not at all to my satisfaction. neither blendtec or vitamix have thought about making a bottom that screws off for removal of food and we raw food enthusiasts use premium costly ingredients, so i have been waiting in the hope they’ll improve their design or you vitamix/blendtec owners tell me how you actually manage to get the stuff out…
I loved my Blendtec for two years – then I had to replace the container. One year later the new container is leaking and now it’s not covered by warranty. So I’m shopping again and am going with the vitamix 5200. Thank you for the review! – Jordan
My Blentex container also sprung a leak in less than a year; but thanks to COSTCO, I bought a Ninja which is disappointing after the Blentex; so, I am going to replace it ( COSTCO is sooo good at returns!) and go with either the Vitamix or Blentec. I am really torn. Owning a Blentec may be like owning a Buick; you know you aren’t getting the ‘best buy” but you’re getting what you want.
I have used a Blendtec for 5+ years and have loved how it blends. HOWEVER, I have been through two blender jars in that time. The metal stem of the jar where it sits on the base freezes up and will not turn and the gasket that seals the bottom of the jar starts to leak. The same thing happened both times. Apparently, when the metal stem froze up it did some damage to the mechanics of the motor, because now it is having problems. Since I am out of warranty, I have no recourse. I am going to buy a VitaMix today!!
Have had 2 products for about 20 years, and swear by both: the VitaMix for what it does is absolutely the best. Used it to make lots of flour — worth getting the dry blade option.
Second is a Champion Juicer that I’ve had for about 30 years — and it, too, is absolutely the best for what it does.
Differences — the Champion is best for things like ‘greens’ juices (be sure to use things like carrots or celery in between ‘greens’ to push the ‘greens’ through) and whole juices with pulp (get the big screen optional part). I buy 10 pound bags of organic carrots from Costco — juice them in the Champion. Very delicious when cold.
I am buying a vitamix and am debating whether or not to buy to dry blade as well as the wet blade. You said you have ground lots of flour? How fine does it grind the flour? If I want to grind alot of flour over a long term would it be better to buy a kitchen mill wheat grinder or is the vitamix dry blade sufficient and does it give a fine grained flour? Thanks, you are the only one I can find who has actually used the dry blade for grinding flour.
Ann, the Vitamix dry blade is designed specifically for grain grinding and does a great job. The flour is fine and makes fantastic bread.
If you plan on doing a large volume of grain grinding regularly (wanting to make 4 or more loaves of bread at a time) then you may want to consider a mill. Also, consider that you can also knead in the Vitamix dry container (again for small volumes).
I am on the fence also about a Blendtec and a Vitamix 5200, I have heard that Blendtec is great at coffee drinks and smoothies but they are NOT as good at making whole vegetable and whole fruit drinks, since they don’t have the tamper.
No need to worry. Coffee drinks are a breeze with a VM. I research continually before I buy and money is really no object for me. EX. I have a $1,300 Quick Mill Vetrano Expresso machine so I like coffee drinks. Starbucks uses Vita-mix too. Enough said.
Thankx for the info, will probably be getting a vitamix due to the info you provided.
I noticed both these blenders make soups, nut butters, smoothies, etc. but do they make just simple fruit and/or vegetable juices?
Jane,
These blenders make what some call “whole food juice” – super smooth smoothies, but they are not juicers. ‘Juicers’ extract the liquid from fruits and vegetables thereby removing the pulp and fiber.