Picked for one job

What is the best full-size blender for small recipes?

Top pick

Vitamix Propel 510

Vitamix Propel 510

A practical 48-ounce jar with a mini tamper, ten speeds and three programs make up the Vitamix Propel 510.

Why it suits this job

  • Lowest load
  • Jar diameter
The catch
The Propel 750 and Ascent X series have longer warranties than its five-year term.
Go with Vitamix VX3 if
Adaptive programs for batches of one to four servings
More reasons we picked it
  • Control at low speeds
  • Base size

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Circulation that works better with one or two servings, dips and dressings.

Guide updated , Product data updated , Amazon.com / United States

By the numbers

What the data shows

What we found across the high-end blenders we compare, plus the checked facts behind each finding.

How many fit

Only 3 of the 29 models checked meet every need here: “I often blend fibrous greens”, “Most of the time I make one or two servings”, “Sauces, dips and dressings are what I make”, “I like controlling speed directly”, “I want vessels that are dishwasher-safe”, “What matters is a quick self-clean cycle”, “My counter or cabinet has little room”, and “Spend less than $300”.

3 models fit, out of 29 checked

Worth knowing

Vitamix Propel 510 lists 48 oz for included-container capacity, 25% below the 64 oz median.

Vitamix Propel 510
48 oz
Typical (median)
64 oz
Models with this figure
28 of 29
Show the facts and the math
Models in the comparison
29 models
Sources
5 covering these models
Product data updated

How we countedThe count uses each product's current fit ratings for “I often blend fibrous greens”, “Most of the time I make one or two servings”, “Sauces, dips and dressings are what I make”, “I like controlling speed directly”, “I want vessels that are dishwasher-safe”, “What matters is a quick self-clean cycle”, “My counter or cabinet has little room”, and “Spend less than $300”. A need with no documented match is not counted.

How we calculatedFigures use the largest container listed in the package. Its total volume can be more than the recommended fill line for liquids. The median draws on the 28 of 29 models that publish comparable figures.

The facts and sources behind each product in this recommendation
ProductNeeds it meetsFacts we checkedSources
Vitamix Propel 510
  • Green smoothies
  • Small batches
  • Dips and sauces
  • Control by hand
  • Dishwasher safe
  • Quick cleaning
  • Compact fit
  • Under $300
  • Smoothies, Hot Soup and Frozen Dessert are automated by three settings.
  • Both the 48-ounce BPA-free jar and its lid can go in the dishwasher.
  • Included are ten variable speeds, pulse and a mini tamper.
Vitamix VX3
  • Green smoothies
  • Small batches
  • Dips and sauces
  • Control by hand
  • Dishwasher safe
  • Quick cleaning
  • Compact fit
  • Smoothie, Frozen Cocktail and Soup are the BlendPilot programs.
  • One to four servings is what the 48-ounce BPA-free container is aimed at.
  • A seven-year limited warranty and a 2.2-horsepower, 1,440-watt motor are what Vitamix lists.
Hamilton Beach Professional Quiet Shield Blender
  • Green smoothies
  • Small batches
  • Dips and sauces
  • Control by hand
  • Dishwasher safe
  • Quick cleaning
  • Compact fit
  • Under $300
  • A 1,500 watts motor rating comes with a BPA-free jar that holds 32 ounces.
  • During blending, a removable hinged shield surrounds the jar.
  • Alongside a variable-speed dial, four programs cover Smoothie, Ice Crush, Puree and Clean.

3 options

The top pick and the alternatives

01
Vitamix Propel 510

Vitamix, Black, 48-ounce container

Propel 510

Three automatic recipes and the familiar ten-speed dial come in a practical mid-size Vitamix with a friendlier price.

Top pick ifCompact size, Vitamix performance, useful presets

Key facts

  • Smoothies, Hot Soup and Frozen Dessert are automated by three settings.
  • Both the 48-ounce BPA-free jar and its lid can go in the dishwasher.

The catch

The Propel 750 and Ascent X series have longer warranties than its five-year term.

02
Vitamix VX3

Vitamix, Black, 48-ounce container

VX3

This compact premium Vitamix brings in three adaptive BlendPilot programs and still has a physical speed dial and pulse control.

Best forAdaptive programs for batches of one to four servings

Key facts

  • Smoothie, Frozen Cocktail and Soup are the BlendPilot programs.
  • One to four servings is what the 48-ounce BPA-free container is aimed at.

The catch

The 48-ounce jar makes a full round of party drinks a less convenient job.

03
Hamilton Beach Professional Quiet Shield Blender

Hamilton Beach Professional, 58870

Quiet Shield Blender

Four programs, a direct variable-speed dial and a removable sound shield come on this compact, high-speed 32-ounce blender.

Best forSmall batches with less noise, without paying luxury prices

Key facts

  • A 1,500 watts motor rating comes with a BPA-free jar that holds 32 ounces.
  • During blending, a removable hinged shield surrounds the jar.

The catch

A large family batch doesn’t suit the 32-ounce jar.

Ready to buy

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