Getting started

Blenders are one appliance that consumers are more likely to leave on the countertop—so upscale looks, increased power, and sturdier construction are driving blender sales. Many colors and finishes, including stainless steel, are now available, but appearance isn't everything. Our top-rated blenders cost less than $100 and excelled at chopping, puréeing, mixing and crushing ice (piña coladas anyone?).

Other options include handheld blenders (good mostly for stirring powdered drinks or puréeing vegetables in a saucepan) and all-in-one machines (which claim to replace food processors and, in some cases, add cooking capabilities). But you might sacrifice performance or have to pay more if you follow either route.

Consider the types of food and drink you prepare, and use our Ratings to find the blenders that perform best in those areas. For example, if you're going to be mostly mixing drinks, look for a machine with enough oomph to crush ice.

Spending more for any of these appliances will typically get you touchpad controls, extra speeds and power, and designer styling or colors to match your kitchen's décor. Inexpensive units usually have glass or plastic pitchers. You'll pay more for a blender with a stainless steel or other metallic jar than you will for one with a plastic or glass container.

Big, visible measurement marks and easily decipherable controls add to ease of use. Our noise Ratings can spare you the trouble of listening to a grating, high-pitched whine—one model was so loud as to require hearing protection.

See also:

Mixers

Toasters

Coffeemakers

Wine chillers