Updated September 23rd 2020 There are plenty of blender models on the market these days. By now you may have spent hours trying to decide which blender is better a Vitamix or Blendtec. I GET IT! After using a blender to help heal myself from an unhealthy relationship with food and realizing the potential a good power blender has to help others eat healthier too, I launched Blender Babes in 2012 and made it my mission to use and test every single model available for the home by both Vitamix and Blendtec. So, whether you’re researching the best blender for smoothies that are silky smooth OR looking to improve your health OR are just ready to upgrade to a better blender - my goal is to share with you a blender expert (and REAL user's) close comparison to help you determine which blender and model is better for your specific needs. In this Blendtec vs Vitamix review I will explain all pros and cons, similarities and differences between these two blender brands currently available in terms of: design, features, containers, performance, warranty and price. This will help you determine which blender is most beneficial for you, your family, and your lifestyle. Throughout the article, you’ll also find some quick links to take you to what you’re most interested in. After this comparison review, if you’re still having a hard time deciding which exact blender model is right for you, I invite you to schedule a complimentary 15 min sales call with me Tarashaun, Founder of Blender Babes.

(I) Blendtec vs Vitamix 2020 – Price Comparison I’m going to start with the biggest (and pretty much only) con regarding these two blenders, which is their initial cost. No, these are not the $100 blenders that have probably broken down on you, conveniently just after their measly 1 year warranty ended. Expect to pay $250-$500+ - either all at once or with a long term payment plan if it's available. Look at this purchase as an investment in your health. You will own this blender for many, many years to come. You will save money in the long run by making homemade versions of store-bought items and ideally, you will save on future doctor bills. Please Note: Both Vitamix and Blendtec have less expensive certified reconditioned options which are basically the same as new. The base housing, jars, cookbooks, tamper (Vitamix only) – everything is replaced and guaranteed to work as new . These are the blenders with the most savings and I have purchased several of these (from each brand) for myself and as gifts. Both companies offer a no-risk 30 day return policy to try out the blender. If you decide it's not for you within 30 days you can return for a full refund. Vitamix will even pay for return shipping, however Blendtec does not. Keep in mind you will also receive free shipping + exclusive free gifts from Blender Babes! Click here to learn more about our current free gifts offer for purchasing any Blendtec or Vitamix blenders by using the links from this website and promo codes.

Blender Babes is proud to be an affiliate of many of the healthy lifestyle products we discuss. At no additional cost to you, we earn a small commission for sales made using the links from our website (and are able to offer special deals just for our tribe!). It’s how we keep creating content you love and we are so very grateful for your support! ♥ Here are some compelling reasons why buying from Blender Babes is going to be a win for you – 1) Free shipping: You will receive FREE SHIPPING for purchasing from Blender Babes using the links and exclusive promo codes from our website (that goes for new and refurbished Vitamix and Blendtec blender models!) Shipping is free to both the USA and Canada for Blendtec and Vitamix (also the UK for Vitamix). 2) Exclusive free gifts: By using the links from our website just before making your purchase, and Blendtec Promo Code BBGIFT or Vitamix Promo Code 06-007974 you will receive $50 in free gifts exclusively from Blender Babes! Learn More about our current free gifts offer. 3) Payment plans: Both Blendtec and Vitamix offer payment plans if you’re in the USA or Canada and Vitamix also offers free shipping to the UK. Blendtec offers 3, 6, and 12-month payment plans with interest financing through AFFIRM at checkout. Vitamix offers Easy Pay no interest financing up to 24 months through Paypal. 4) Save big: Access the largest selection of Refurbished Blendtec and Refurbished Vitamix: The best deals on Vitamix and Blendtec blenders are LIKE NEW Refurbished blenders and come complete manufacturer’s 5 (Vitamix) and 3 (Blendtec) year warranty (read more about warranty later in this review). 5) Community: Become part of our blending-loving tribe and connect with others just like you who are living a healthier lifestyle and using their blender to do so! We do several free and paid LIVE group blender challenges per year that help you make the most of your blender AND eat cleaner. F. Instructions to Follow when Buying from Blender Babes By using the links from our website and our Vitamix Promo Code "06-007974" or Blendtec Promo Codes "BBGIFT" or "BBTWISTER" (for 50% off a Twister Jar) – you will receive free shipping and exclusive free gifts! But make sure to forward your purchase confirmation email from Blendtec to freegift@blenderbabes.com to redeem your free gift. Purchases at all other locations other than directly from the manufacturer DO NOT have the payment plan options OR most refurbished options and will not receive our exclusive free gifts from Blender Babes. Here are some more instructions to make your purchase easier – Blendtec: To purchase any Blendtec blender or accessories with free shipping: add your desired item to your shopping cart and upon checkout use our special Blendtec Promo Code: BBGIFT or BBTwister (if you want to also get a Twister Jar for 50% off). This will apply FREE GROUND SHIPPING to the USA & CANADA!

To purchase a Blendtec with their 3, 6 or 12-month payment plan option, choose AFFIRM financing at checkout. Vitamix To purchase any Vitamix blender or accessories with free shipping: add your desired item to your shopping cart and use our special Vitamix Promotion Code: 06-007974 which will automatically apply FREE SHIPPING to the USA, CANADA and the UK!

To purchase a Vitamix with their payment plans, choose Paypal financing at checkout.

ATTENTION CAN/UK: If you can arrange a US address to ship to, click on the Canada/UK flag in the bottom right corner of any Vitamix.com page and choose United States to see/choose the USA options and place your order, shipping to a US address. (II) Noise Comparison The only other major con besides price regarding Blendtec and Vitamix blenders is the noise they make. After evaluation testing the decibels of each blender, we found that Blendtec is slightly louder than Vitamix at its highest speed and when blending ice and frozen fruit for smoothies or ice cream. Note that the newer Blendtec Designer Series and the Vitamix Ascent Series are the quietest options compared to their other models that don't have a sound enclosure. Other than that they are both equally noisy machines with only 1-2 decibel differences. Every Blendtec and Vitamix blender (except the Blendtec Pro 800 or Stealth and the Vitamix Quiet One, which have sound enclosures) is much louder when compared to a common low-wattage kitchen blender, however they are almost 5 times more powerful than most. It’s important to remember that most items are blended in approximately 1-2 min. so they are not causing a racket for too long! If a quiet blender is important to you, you will want to seriously consider the Blendtec Pro 800 which is what I have on my counter since I blend while a baby is napping, early in the morning and late at night. With its sound enclosure it really is very quiet. (III) Design Comparison

When we look at design we look at the base housing, size and containers and how they fit in your kitchen. The "Classic" models from both Blendtec and Vitamix are the "older" body style however don't be fooled - these are still workhorses and tried and true to work just as well (sometimes even better or with more features) than their successors. Vitamix improved on the original classic C-Series design with a bigger face and dial and adding a pulse feature. They further improved with their more high-tech Ascent Series. Blendtec was the first to market with their all touchscreen Designer Series blenders and is the only one with a household version that has a sound enclosure (Pro 800) or can be built into the counter (Pro 750)

A. Power Comparison

Both Blendtec and Vitamix are much more powerful than a typical 350 watt kitchen blender. Vitamix blender models are less powerful with a 2 or 2.2 peak horsepower motor compared to Blendtec's 3 peak horsepower motor. Blendtec even has two models with a 3.8 peak horsepower motor. However in our testing, whether they had 2.2 HP or 3 HP, all the blenders had enough power and torque to easily blend any food product. The only difference we found was how fast a recipe was pulverized or made hot (example: soup). The truth is, you will not find virtually any foods the Blendtec can blend which the Vitamix cannot. Nevertheless the popular Will It Blend? youtube videos that demonstrate a Blendtec Total Blender pulverizing an iPhone, ipad, golf balls, marbles, etc. prove the Blendtec is a more powerful machine. B. Speed Capacity Comparison All Vitamix models have 10 speeds and has a greater RPM range from 500 to 37,000 enabling more control at slower speeds, which is most helpful for chopping (see chopping in our performance tests) as well as emulsifying. Blendtec models have up to 10 speeds with a minimum of 4,080 revolutions per minute (RPM) and a maximum of 28,000 RPM’s. Several of their models have less than 10 speeds, however most types of blends use the highest speed so you won't usually notice. That said, since various speeds will enable you to achieve different textures with a variety of ingredients, Vitamix does provide more control over your blend no matter which model you have. C. Size Comparison The Blendtec Classic Series are 6 pounds while the Blendtec Designer Series is 8-10 pounds. All of them are a low 15 inches tall. Blendtec’s compact size will fit underneath most kitchen cabinets, and its lighter weight makes it easier to move around and travel with (i.e. road trips, vacations, to gatherings, etc.) Even the Blendtec Classic Series which has a sound enclosure is 17.25 inches tall which will still fit under most kitchen cabinets. As for Vitamix Blenders, the standard Vitamix Classic C-Series models are approximately 13 pounds and 21.5 inches tall – making them harder to fit under a cabinet. Vitamix’s newer models such as the Vitamix Ascent Series and Vitamix Next Generation have a more desirable 64 oz compact jar making them 17 inches tall, to compete with this particularly desirable attribute of their biggest competitor. For a heavy job with lots of frozen ingredients (such as making ice cream) sometimes the light Blendtec Classic models will move around or shift on your countertop, usually if it’s tilted and not a smooth surface. This can be somewhat alarming to new users, but it’s nothing to be too concerned about. With its heavier weight, Vitamix will not move on your counter. D. Controls and User Friendliness Comparison When you compare Vitamix and Blendtec controls you see the main difference between these two blender brands. While they are both simple to operate, their functionality is different. Most Vitamix blenders have switches and a variable speed dial – only very recently introducing touchscreen models - while Blendtec is the pioneer for flat, easy to clean automatic buttons and touchscreens. 1. Vitamix 1.1 Speed Control Every single Vitamix blender will have a variable 10-speed control dial (except their two-speed models which we don’t recommend).

The older C-Series models, including the Vitamix 5200 or reconditioned Vitamix Standard (most of the others have been retired), have a variable 10 speed dial with a Hi/Lo switch and no separate pulse button (however you can still “pulse” by turning the machine on and off to equal 1 pulse). Newer variable speed dial only models (pictured above which include the Vitamix S30, Vitamix Pro 300, Vitamix 7500 and the Ascent Series A2300 and A3300) include a pulse setting. 1.2 Pre-Programmed Settings + Variable Speed Control

Vitamix models which include pre-programmed settings (which we LOVE) and a pulse setting are typically more expensive (but totally worth it). The combination of Pre-Programmed Settings plus Variable Speed Control offers the ultimate in versatility. They are easier to use, saving you time in addition to giving you total creative control of the blend. Depending on which model will determine how many pre-programmed settings you have and what they are. For a more detailed look at what controls would work best for you, see our “Which Vitamix to Buy Review". 2. Blendtec Blendtec is known for their patented Smart-Touch Tec-nology™ enabling you to press a button and walk away. The automatic program cycle with fluctuating various speeds will stop when the program time is completed. The microprocessor technology features a digital display that shows you blending times and cycles. There is also a pulse button which is great for mixing in additional ingredients without pulverizing. We find it keeps certain recipes “chunkier” than with our Vitamix, such as in our skinny guacamole recipe. In addition to the program cycles, there are also manual speeds, which also automatically shut off after 50 seconds of continuous blending. Which model you get will determine how many automatic settings and manual speeds you have. Blendtec has two types of control pads, push-button and touchscreen. 2.1 Blendtec Touchscreen Control

The Blendtec models with the most features in terms of the number of pre-programmed settings (6), manual speeds (10 to 100) and even additional high-end features include: The refurbished Blendtec Total Blender Classic

The Blendtec Designer 725 and the Blendtec Designer 700 (both have 100 manual speeds and additional features such as Add 10 + bonus rewards.

The Blendtec Pro 800.

The Blendtec Pro 750. Every model other than these has fewer numbers of pre-programmed settings and manual speeds – with the least amount of features/options of all being the Blendtec 570 (only available at Costco). 2.2. Blendtec Push Button Control

The automatic programmed cycles are our favorite thing about Blendtec blenders! The program cycles are perfect for most applications, however, on occasion we need to continue blending after the program completes to finish the job. For all models that don’t have the “Add 10” time feature, we just use our manual speeds or hold down the pulse setting as needed, or we’ll use a programmed cycle a second time. No big deal. One thing we especially appreciate (and has come in handy for extra-tough recipes) is Blendtec’s built-in computer detects Overheat, Overload, and Jammed blade situations, preventing damage. The Vitamix does have overheat protection but not the other protections the Blendtec has. A Vitamix will continue to run until you manually power off or until the thermal protection kicks in to prevent overheating. (IV) Containers/Jars Comparison The biggest difference comparing Blendtec and Vitamix containers is compatibility with each model. With Blendtec every type of container fits and work on all of their models. With Vitamix certain models only work with certain containers, so if you upgrade you may also need to buy new additional containers. The second biggest difference is all Blendtec jars are dishwasher safe while many, but not all, Vitamix jars are dishwasher safe (on the top rack is best). All current Blendtec and Vitamix containers are BPA-Free copolyester plastic. These containers are lightweight and are EXTREMELY TOUGH to break in case you drop it (our favorite Will It Blend videos come to mind here!). For the most part, both do not absorb the odors of the ingredients that are put in, however, it is important to clean the jars right away to eliminate any unwanted smells. That said, spices and their strong odors have been known to leave a scent and/or discolor jars a bit. We recommend using a smaller/additional jar for spices. 1. Jars/ Containers 1.1. Blendtec Containers + Special Offer

BLENDTEC COMPLETE SETUP The "Blendtec Complete Setup" is any Blendtec blender with a Wildside Jar + a Twister Jar. If you have these two jars you don't need anything else to blend everything your heart desires! Which is why Blender Babes negotiated an exclusive deal just for you! Get 50% off a Blendtec Twister Jar with Promo Code BBTwister (includes free shipping)

Blendtec models usually come standard with the large 90 oz “Wildside+” container that is widely believed to be “the best” with its larger capacity and superior blending performance. (Note: Blendtec won a 24 MM lawsuit against Vitamix for patent infringement for this particular jar - it works that well!). Please Note: I do NOT recommend getting the Fourside Jar over the Wildside+ Jar. I know it's cheaper but it just doesn't blend as well. Things get stuck and you will have to stop the machine and shake the jar or move ingredients around with a spatula. GO WITH THE WILDSIDE+ JAR OPTION. The only other jar you really should get is the “Twister jar" which was designed especially for nut butters, frozen treats and other thick/smaller blends. It’s a game-changer and honestly the Wildside+ jar alone can't do these types of blends very well without a tamper.

FAQ: My family consists of 3 people and I would probably be making smoothies in a small amount, sometimes just single servings. Would the Wildside+ jar be too big for my needs? Answer: You can definitely blend a single smoothie in a Wildside+ Jar. It's super small amounts of things like dressings, sauces, etc. I would stick with the Wildside+ Jar and then put the Twister Jar on your wishlist if you can't get right away. 🙂 1.1.1. Types of Blendtec Jars to Consider If you grow to LOVE your Blendtec and want to easily make all-the-things, you may consider adding one of these additional jars to your wish list. Blendtec container options include: ”3 qt” 90 oz Wildside+ Jar – Largest capacity with a bigger 4-inch blade. This is the must-have jar and should definitely be the one purchased over the Fourside Jar option.

Largest capacity with a bigger 4-inch blade. This is the must-have jar and should definitely be the one purchased over the Fourside Jar option. ”2 qt” 64 oz Fourside Jar – The original container before they invented (the better) Wildside + jar. This is a good additional jar to have if you plan do a lot of grinding which will pit/cloud the jar or if you blend something that stains.

The original container before they invented (the better) Wildside + jar. This is a good additional jar to have if you plan do a lot of grinding which will pit/cloud the jar or if you blend something that stains. 46 oz. Mini Wildside Jar – Performs as well as the regular Wildside Jar but only good for single servings. We like the new latching lid to prevent any accidents. However for single serve to-go we recommend the Blendtec GO Jar instead.

– Performs as well as the regular Wildside Jar but only good for single servings. We like the new latching lid to prevent any accidents. However for single serve to-go we recommend the Blendtec GO Jar instead. Twister Jar (Standard) – This container was made specifically for thick dishes/purees such as nut butter, hummus, baby food and for small amounts. This is the MUST HAVE additional jar for the ultimate Blendtec set up to be able to blend everything.

This container was made specifically for thick dishes/purees such as nut butter, hummus, baby food and for small amounts. This is the MUST HAVE additional jar for the ultimate Blendtec set up to be able to blend everything. Blendtec GO Jar - Allows for single serve blending with a to-go jar and cup. Perfect for busy mornings and multiple family members making different types of smoothies. You can get one GO jar with blade or two jars.

- Allows for single serve blending with a to-go jar and cup. Perfect for busy mornings and multiple family members making different types of smoothies. You can get one GO jar with blade or two jars. The Wildside+ Rebel/XR Jar - This jar was made to fit on Classic and Next Generation Vitamix models. Part of the lawsuit they won. Don't worry about this jar unless you have an older Vitamix. 1.2. Vitamix Containers

Most Vitamix models come with a 64 oz capacity container. The compact Vitamix Next Generation and Ascent Series container is short enough for their blender to fit under the average kitchen counter – which was one of the largest complaints that our Vitamix owners have (the 64 oz standard being too tall so people put away and therefore don’t use it as much). The only other jar you really need from the Vitamix brand in order to blend smaller portions or single servings, especially if you get the 64 oz compact jar is the much smaller Vitamix 32 oz jar, or recently introduced Vitamix 48 oz container. A Vitamix wet jar can perform hot, cold, and wet, however for blending dry goods, they have a special Dry Grains Container. FAQ: I would like to know if the dry container is needed? Answer: I personally rarely use the dry jar - only when I'm testing. If you do occasional grinding, you can do so in the wet jar. That said, if you plan to do A LOT of grinding (gluten-free household, make your own flour for dough, etc.) that is the only time I would recommend getting the (expensive) dry jar. Note: We have found Vitamix Containers for less on Amazon. 1.2.1. Types of Vitamix Jars Vitamix container options include: Vitamix 64 oz Container – a standard container used by most – totals 20.5″ tall

– a standard container used by most – totals 20.5″ tall Vitamix 64 oz Low Profile Compact Container – compact 64oz container with a 4-inch base that totals 17.4″ tall on base. Fits under most kitchen cabinets. Should only be used with all Vitamix G-Series models and Vitamix C-Series models with 2.2 horsepower motor* (Vitamix 5300 and 6500)

– compact 64oz container with a 4-inch base that totals 17.4″ tall on base. Fits under most kitchen cabinets. Should only be used with all Vitamix G-Series models and Vitamix C-Series models with 2.2 horsepower motor* (Vitamix 5300 and 6500) Vitamix 64 oz Low Profile Ascent Series Container – this is also a shorter 64 oz container that makes the unit 17″ tall on the base and fits under most kitchen cabinets. Due to the “Smart Detect” technology used in the Ascent Series, you cannot use any container on an Ascent base other than those made for the Ascent Series. This container also has an improved spout and transparent lid which locks in place.

– this is also a shorter 64 oz container that makes the unit 17″ tall on the base and fits under most kitchen cabinets. Due to the “Smart Detect” technology used in the Ascent Series, you cannot use any container on an Ascent base other than those made for the Ascent Series. This container also has an improved spout and transparent lid which locks in place. Vitamix 48 oz Compact Container – smaller capacity compact container -totals 17.5” tall

– smaller capacity compact container -totals 17.5” tall Vitamix 32 oz Container – smallest wet jar

– smallest wet jar Vitamix 32 oz Dry Grains Container – made especially for grinding

– made especially for grinding Vitamix 20 oz Travel Container – blend-and-go style cup. Use removable blade to flip over and blend then add the flip cup lid and take on the go – fits all S-Series models only for blending – but can be purchased separately as a to-go cup for any use.

– blend-and-go style cup. Use removable blade to flip over and blend then add the flip cup lid and take on the go – fits all S-Series models only for blending – but can be purchased separately as a to-go cup for any use. Vitamix 40 oz Container – removable blade and gasket for cleaning – fits all S-Series models only (only the blade can be purchased separately). 2. Container Capacity/ Volume Both blenders offer a variety of containers to match your needs. However, while both blenders’ have similarly sized containers the Vitamix containers are UL rated to blend at capacity. Due to its serious power and jar designs, Blendtec jars are not recommended to operate when at capacity (ie. filled to the brim!). For Blendtec to operate best you should fill it no more than 2/3rds full. In contrast, Vita-Mix jars can be filled to the top since 1) they are not as powerful and 2) the lid on the Vitamix containers offer a little extra room. Blendtec’s larger “3 qt/90 oz” wildside jar and Vitamx’s 64 oz low profile jar both have a longer 4-inch blade, and we find these jars not only emulsify ingredients faster than their predecessors but are ideal for larger capacities. They also more easily make bread dough and other baked goods. 3. Container Volume Markings Of course, each jar is marked with easy measuring volume units in oz & cups. (I’ve been known to use my jar as a giant measurement cup!) All of the Blendtec jars have their capacity measurements marked in black and EASY TO SEE. In addition to oz & cups, the newest jars have ml and cl. Vitamix jars have clear markings (which I really hate) that are harder to see and only in oz & cups. 4. Container Blade

Vitamix has a standard 4 prong blade while Blendtec has a patented single blade design. I've read other reviews that say both Blendtec and Vitamix have thick, BLUNT blades and this is simply NOT TRUE. Vitamix does NOT have a thick or blunt blade (I have cut my finger on the tip while cleaning it by hand). That said, it is definitely NOT razor sharp like a Ninja blender blades or food processor. What matter is it IS thick and sharp enough to chop through tough food ingredients like berry seeds and sticky dates, better and quicker than Blendtec can in my testing. The patented Blendtec single blade design IS blunt and thick, which is why it can pulverize anything you throw at it, including golf balls and lighters, without breaking. It's is 80% thicker and 10 times stronger than a standard $50-$100 kitchen blender. In any Blendtec jar, its single blade will do it all: hot, cold, wet, and dry grinding. With Vitamix they encourage you to use their special dry grains container for grinding as its blade is designed and meant only for this purpose. See my Vitamix containers review for more detail about whether you need the Vitamix dry container or not. For both blenders, you cannot remove the blade as the blade & container is essentially one piece (not including the Vitamix S-Series). 5. Lid Characteristics 5.1. Blendtec Lids Both the Blendtec and Vitamix have “gripper lids” and they each have a removable chute where you can add ingredients while processing is going on. This way, there is no need to stop the blender to add more ingredients. We find that the Vitamix lid is more secure than Blendtec’s, as the lid snaps onto the jar due to special “lips”. Their lid also adds extra room, while Blendtec’s lid suctions on flat. For this reason, Blendtec recommends not filling their jar to the very top and we must say, this is accurate. On more than one occasion using a Blendtec, we have filled the jar to its brim and “pressed a button and walked away”. As the highly fibrous contents were pulverized on high speeds, and the level of fluid increased, the lid was pushed off sending the contents of our green juice and almond milk (once we attempted a double batch!) ALL OVER THE KITCHEN. With Blendtec blenders, large items sometimes need to be halved or quartered, or additional liquid is needed to blend completely without stopping the blender and pushing ingredients into the blades. 5.2. Vitamix Tamper and Vitamix Lids

Every Vitamix blender comes with a perfectly sized patented tamper, to assist in blending solid and whole (uncut) foods without stopping the blender. The Vitamix Tamper fits through the top opening of the container lid to push solid particles back down into the blender blades, for a faster, smoother and more uniform blending. The Vitamix tamper is not always necessary but is extremely helpful with super green smoothies, and making frozen treats and thicker dishes such as nut butter.

(V) Performance Comparison In this Blendtec vs. Vitamix comparison, we have tested each of these machines (including all of their models) making all-the-things that each company says they can do. In addition to making amazing smoothies and margaritas (the essentials!) they can also be used to make hot soups, nut butter, grind seeds and grains into flour, make bread dough, puree fruit and do a whole lot more. I love doing these types of "blend-offs" because it truly showcases the strengths and weaknesses these blenders have. Please Note: While I love other blend-off tests and videos, what I have found from other reviewers is that they only test one model. Also certain types of blends require different accessories - such as a smaller container (for Vitamix) or twister jar (for Blendtec). So I will do my best to share the results I have found after constant testing with all the newest models and any recommendations I have below. 1. Which Is The Best Blender For Smoothies?

“Which blender is the best smoothie maker?” is one of the most popular questions I receive. But in the Blendtec vs. Vitamix debate, there is no need to be concerned about whether or not either blender can result in a silky smooth smoothie. There is no question that both blenders do an excellent job at turning out delicious fruit and vegetable smoothies. The fact that 90% of smoothie shops use one or the other of these two commercial-grade machines, should be reason enough to convince you of their power and longevity. I honestly can’t say either one is the best smoothie maker. This is because they’re BOTH phenomenal smoothie makers!!

1.1. The Blendtec Blender as a Smoothie Maker With our extensive recipe testing, Blender Babes has used our Blendtec blenders literally thousands of times. We can say this with confidence by its digital counter and because many of our customers themselves have experienced long life cycles of their Blendtec - so we’re not alone! However, we have found that when using the fourside jar instead of the Wildside+ Jar (which is sometimes sold that way making the price cheaper) the vortex created isn't as strong and ingredients can get stuck. Since there's not tamper to push the ingredient down you would have to stop the machine and do it manually and possibly add more liquid to get it going. Another thing we found is that when making super packed green smoothies, the Whole Juice program cycle will not always complete the blending to its smoothest point, upon the timed 50-second cycle. For example, sometimes with carrots and certain green smoothies packed with tons of fibrous vegetables, it may be necessary to do additional blending after running the Whole Juice cycle. That being said, since every Blendtec offers manual buttons for added control over your blending desires, usually, only a few more seconds at a high speed finishes the job. For common blends and fruit smoothies, we find automatic program cycles to be a serious blessing and time-saver by not having to stand next to and/or assist the blender. 1.2. The Vitamix Blender as a Smoothie Maker Compared to the Blendtec, The Vitamix makes super smooth fruit, vegetable, and green smoothies, even when we pack the container to the brim. There is a reason the Vitamix comes with its patented tamper. And with certain to-capacity or highly fibrous green smoothies, we need to push those ingredients down and into the blade. Since you are controlling the machine you have the ability to shut off the power (except with the automated controls in the new Vitamix 6300 or 750 models!!) when you see a consistency that’s to your liking. 2. Is Blendtec or Vitamix a Juicer?

One of the most common questions asked by those looking for a traditional juicer is “Can Blendtec or Vitamix make juice?” Well, we have your answer. While both the Blendtec and Vitamix blenders are not traditional juice extractors, it is important to note that they can make juice and that too, very well! But instead of the normal juice, what they really make is “whole food juice”.

The important difference is that traditional juicers extract the liquid from whole foods, separating out the pulp (fiber), seeds, and skin. But both Vitamix and Blendtec blenders do not remove anything from the whole food, so you get ALL the nutrition that is found in the skin and seeds, as well as the natural fiber (pulp) which is liquefied – thus a wholefood juice. Another important difference between a traditional juice extractor and a Blendtec or Vitamix juicer is that a traditional juicer requires 4-10 times more produce to extract a small amount of juice. The resulting juice has a higher concentration of vitamins and minerals than what a Blendtech or Vitamix would yield. However, it can also have a much higher concentration of sugar, especially in fruit juices or vegetable juices such as carrots. A Blendtec or Vitamix juice, on the other hand, will use 100% of the produce (making your juicing costs much lower) and give you more whole food nutrition. Some illnesses and digestive diseases actually require such a high concentration of vitamins and minerals without the fiber or anything else that the body has to digest. But if you want fresh-squeezed fruit juices such as apple or orange juice, you might prefer the juice from a quality extract juicer. 3. Are These Blenders Considered a Mixer?

Another unique application of these blenders is using them as a mixer. You can quickly create batters, quick bread, and yeast bread with either blender. The Blendtec has a specific Batters/Sauces/Dips button on many of its models, and both easily blend up the pancake and waffle batters. If you have a simple cake, cornbread, or brownie mix, such as our Healthy Brownies recipe, you can just blend it all together in the 64 oz container from either brand then easily pour it directly into your baking dish!

With both Vitamix and Blendtec most cakes, cookies, and bread instructions call for you to blend the wet ingredients and then pour them into a bowl containing the dry ingredients, mixing it by hand from there. Blendtec says you can blend the wet ingredients in the larger Wildside Jar and then PULSE in the dry ingredients. We’ve done this before which some success… however it can very easily become dense, and we find it safer to just add the wet to a bowl with dry and hand mix, like with our Vitamix. When it comes to yeast bread and dough in the Blendtec and Vitamix, both require a little finesse and know-how of baking bread – as there are a lot of other factors to making good fresh bread than just mixing it. See our Vitamix pizza dough how-to here! 4. Chopping Abilities

Chopping may sound like an impossible feat for blenders, but both these brands claim to be food processors or choppers. While neither blender is designed to be as good as a chopper or can handle as large a quantity as a separate food processor, both have the ability to chop smaller quantities of food.

However, the low variable speed control of the Vitamix allows for cleaner, more precise chopping results than the Pulse feature of the Blendtec. Whereas the Blendtec has a blunt blade, so although it doesn’t allow for aesthetic chopping, it can get a simple job done. Blender Babes have used the Blendtec Pulse feature and Vitamix chopping instructions quite a bit for certain recipes such as skinny guacamole, or to add chunks to our soup. While both work very well, if you need to chop large quantities of food, we still recommend a true food processor. 5. Grinding Compared

Some other common questions we get are “Does this blender really make flour?” and “Is it necessary to get a Vitamix Dry Container?” Well, we’re happy to say that both blenders definitely make flour and are considered to be “grain mills”. The advantage Blendtec has over Vitamix is that both their Fourside and Wildside jar also dry blend (meaning you do not have to buy any additional jars specifically for this purpose). The Vitamix, on the other hand, has a special dry goods jar that they sell separately (or sometimes in a combo package), which adds to the price of an already expensive blender.

Many of our members tell us that they use their standard wet jar to blend dry goods (such as flax seeds and wheat berries). We have tested this and yes, the wet jar can grind grains. That said, if used repeatedly for dry grinding, the sharp blade will become dull, and eventually, wet blending performance will be compromised. The Vitamix dry container is especially designed for grinding flour because the blade is shaped differently and specifically for creating an opposite vortex. This pushes the dry goods against the jar, circulates differently, and provides a slightly finer grind than the wet jar as well. The Bottom Line: If you plan to do a lot of grinding (i.e you do a lot of baking and/or have a gluten-free lifestyle – and would like to make your own inexpensive flour, consistently), then you should probably purchase the dry goods jar if you have a Vitamix. But if you occasionally want to grind some flax seeds and make your own flax meal, then you may not want to spend the extra money now to get the Vitamix dry container. In that case, you can use your wet jar with the understanding that the whole jar or just the blade may need replacing sooner than normal. Also, it is important to note: When grinding hard grains for both blenders, it will pit the BPA free jar interior, resulting in a “fogged” appearance. With our Blendtec, Blender Babes uses one Fourside jar specifically for dry goods, and one for all else – since cosmetic alterations are not covered under warranty. 6. Can Vitamix or Blendtec Make Soup?

This is a question I get asked a lot. The answer is "YES!". When these two top blenders battle it out to make hot soup, they each can do so in mere minutes due to the friction the blades cause when spinning. Literally, steam will be coming out the top when you take the lid off! Since both blender containers have vented lids that are designed for pressure release, it is safe to blend hot liquids, unlike Ninja blenders for example.

Due to the Blendtec being a more powerful machine, when starting with cold water or broth, it takes slightly less time by pressing the Soup button (or 90 second button) 3 times, taking a total of 4.5 minutes to get super hot. The Vitamix, on the other hand, takes takes 6-7 minutes on manual control on the highest variable speed or by using their automated 6 minute soup setting on Vitamix models with programmed settings. It is of course much healthier to make a fresh soup at home than to use a canned soup – which has a shelf life of 3 years thanks to hefty preservatives and is often extremely high in sodium. We have many Blendtec and Vitamix soup recipes and are constantly adding new ones because it's one of the healthiest types of recipes you can blend! 7. Ice Cream

Who would have EVER thought they would see ice cream made in 45 seconds?!?! Well, it takes that short of time if you use the Blendtec Ice Cream or the Vitamix Frozen Treat button! Aside from yeast bread, ice cream is probably the trickiest thing to make. But once you have made it a few times, especially using either one of these blenders it’s a piece of cake- er, ICE CREAM!

We find that with ice cream, the Blendtec needs to have fairly exact measurements of liquids to frozen ingredients (which our recipes provide) or the ice causes cavitation around the blade, so you must stop the machine, shake it out or use a spatula, and use your manual keys to re-blend. With the Vitamix, you don’t have this problem because the handy tamper will push the frozen ingredients into the blade. So, even if you have a little more ice than needed you just keep blending until the four mounds and star shape forms at the top. The Vitamix usually takes a few seconds longer, but they both equally make fabulous fresh and healthier ice cream. The ice cream from both of these blenders is more of a soft-serve – not like traditional hard ice cream. You can, however, add it to an ice cream maker to get that traditional texture. Click here for some more Blendtec and Vitamix ice cream making tips. (VI) Vitamix vs Blendtec – Cleaning

We have to say that hands down, one of the best features about both of these blenders is their SUPER EASY CLEANUP!! Most regular kitchen blenders have a separate blade, gasket, and jar – and therefore must be taken apart to clean and sanitize after each blend. With all of the current models of the Vitamix and Blendtec, you don’t have to remove the blade from the jar, which results in faster and easier cleanup and prevents leaky or broken seals as well.

When it comes to cleaning, both the Blendtec and Vitamix are considered SELF CLEANING (Yup, that’s what we said!) To clean up after most blended concoctions, all you have to do is add some hot water with a little bit of dish soap and blend for several seconds, and then rinse. This will remove any gunk around the blade. That said, stickier jobs such as nut butter and bread doughs usually require additional scrubbing after first self-cleaning. In these cases, we do find the Blendtec slightly easier to clean. This is because there’s no risk of cutting oneself on its blunt 2 prong blade. Also, its square design is easier for both small and larger hands to reach in and clean with a sponge. Most of the Vitamix jars (except their newest 64oz compact jar), on the other hand, are more narrow and all their models have a somewhat sharp 4 prong blade. This requires more care when handling or doing any additional cleaning. Another point to consider is that Blendtec states that it’s safe to put their jar in the dishwasher (we do it and we LOVE THIS!) Note, it is recommended that you do not put older Blendtec containers that are not BPA-Free in the dishwasher. For Vitamix, some of their jars are not dishwasher safe and some are. Dishwasher safe containers include all Self-Detect Smart System containers, Explorian Series containers and Personal blender S-Series containers - the rest are not. For both, not having to disassemble and reassemble the jar & blade is definitely an easy time-saver that adds to the cleaning points. Pro Tip: Always make sure to clean right after blending for the best results. Follow this and you’ll surely thank us later!.

(VII) Warranty and Durability Comparison

In our experience and from numerous member reviews, both blender companies have exceptional customer service and make it easy to fix or replace under warranty without a headache. You can feel safe in your purchase with either blender. One of the greatest advantages of owning either one of these commercial blenders is their superior product warranty over the typical 1 or 2 years “regular” blender warranties (you know, the kind that almost always burns out right after the warranty ends). The quality construction for both of these blenders means you will use these blenders for years without any problems. The average life expectancy for each is 15 to 20 years. 1. Vitamix’s Warranty Offer For added peace of mind, Vitamix comes with a complete 7-Year Full Use warranty on new Classic Series models, 10 years on the Smart System Series, and 5 years for the Space Saving Series and certified reconditioned Vitamix blenders. They also offer an added 3-year warranty at checkout. And if that’s not enough, Vitamix also offers a 30-day no-risk money-back guarantee for a full refund, no questions asked. What’s more, they will also pay for return shipping (I don't know any other brand that does this). 2. Blendtec’s Warranty Offer Blendtec’s warranty is an industry-leading 8-year warranty on new blenders and 3-years for certified reconditioned Blendtec blenders) Blendtec offers a 30-day money-back guarantee for a full refund, no questions asked. However, if you return or send in under warranty, you must pay for your own return shipping. 3. Where is Blendtec and Vitamix Manufactured? Both Blendtec and Vitamix blenders are Manufactured in the USA. However, both companies do use some foreign-made components within their blenders. This is why both brands are required by law to say it is ‘designed and assembled in the USA’ due to a law prohibiting companies from making the ‘Made in the USA’ claim if any part of their blender comes from a foreign country. (VIII) Blendtec and Vitamix Pros and Cons Blendtec vs Vitamix – SO… Which of these two blenders is better for YOU? Here’s a final summary to make things easier for you –

Blendtec Pros and Cons Pros More Powerful Blender

Slightly more economical

All models fit under most kitchen cabinets

All jars work with all models

100% digital and automatic

All models have pre-programmed settings



All jars are dishwasher safe

Jars are easier and safer to clean by hand



Jars have black measurements that are easy to see

30 day no risk guarantee to try out a blender Cons Standard Wildside+ Jar can't blend small portions

Need twister jar for small and/or thick blends (Note: get 50% off with Promo Code "BBTwister")

Does not have low revolutions per minute (RPM) which on rare occasion is needed for specific types of recipes

Does not pay for return shipping under warranty

Generally loud (except Pro 800 with sound enclosure) Conclusion: Blendtec blenders were the original inventors of high-tech blenders. Not only are they extremely powerful, all models have automatic presets that people LOVE! At the beginning of my blending journey, I sold many of these blenders to former Vitamix owners and they were very happy with the differences, the main reasons being: more powerful, easier to clean and not having to use a tamper. Vitamix Pros and Cons Pros Outstanding reputation

Full manual control with a 10 speed variable dial

Greater range of revolutions per minute (RPM) specifically low speeds needed for certain recipes

Tamper to assist with blending as needed

Some models have automatic presetsMost models now fit under kitchen cabinets

Smart System blenders (and any new models that continue to come out) are wi-fi capable

Some jars are dishwasher safe (Smart System Self-Detect, Explorian Series and S-Series)

Pays for return shipping under warranty Cons Standard 64 oz low profile container can't blend small portions

Usually need to buy an additional container for all blending needs (i.e. small blends)

Some jars are not dishwasher safe

Generally loud Conclusion: Vitamix has been around for almost 100 years. They were known for their iconic Vitamix 5200 with the tall jar, tamper and variable speed dial. In the last 8 years they have come out with numerous new models with features that consumers ask for (and loved about Blendtec) - fit under kitchen cabinets, automatic presets, pulse feature and digital timer to name a few. Whether you like the classic switches and dials or the newer Smart System blenders you really can't go wrong.

(VIII) Final Thoughts Hopefully, this review has cleared your doubts and given you an idea of what you need. I want you to look at your purchase as a positive investment toward your own health. These blenders end up paying for themselves in typically less than a year, and over time you will actually save thousands of dollars between eating healthier and preventing doctor visits. Of course, you must use the blender to do that, and my goal with free recipes and programs is to show you exactly how you can. The price is in the (chia) pudding! I am sure you will see it for yourself! Still not sure which one to get?? This should help ⇓