Presets and blending speeds
In addition to blending faster, more expensive blenders tend to have more preset functions designed to optimally blend the food you’re trying to process. These presets vary the speed of the blender and how long it runs, which can actually help you achieve better, varied textures. But they aren’t strictly necessary.
Materials
The easiest place to notice the quality of a blender’s build is in its base. High-powered blenders can have motor bases that weigh close to 10 pounds. Less expensive blenders weigh quite a bit less, which can make them less stable on the counter when the motor is whizzing. The two we recommend here use suction cup feet to help hold the blender in place. That undoubtedly gives them a more budget feel.
Pricey blender pitchers generally feel more substantial as well. Today, most blender pitchers, regardless of price, are made from BPA-free plastic as opposed to glass, which was more common in pre-21st century blenders. That’s not necessarily a bad thing—blending hot soups in a glass pitcher, for example, can cause enough pressure to crack them. But the quality of the plastic will vary, with cheaper blenders typically having thinner walls that feel less durable.
What counts as a cheap blender?
The blenders recommended here range from $60–$150. Generally, when we write these price-focused articles, we try to offer options below $100. With a blender, for the reasons outlined above, we felt that it was necessary to go a little higher in price cutoff, to $150. At this price point, we can recommend blenders that have enough power, high enough RPM, and high enough quality materials to last.
If you see blenders in this article that cost over $150, that’s because their prices fluctuate, especially on multi-party seller websites like Amazon. Know that we have regularly seen these blenders for $150 or less, so if you’re seeing them listed for more, it’s worth cross-checking retailers, or waiting for a sale.
The best budget blender: Nutribullet Power Core
Pros:
- Simple, intuitive controls
- Powerful motor
- Lower price than most Vitamixes
Cons:
- Soft lid doesn’t always feel secure
- Smoothie came out warmer than models with presets
Power: 1440 watts
Speeds: 10
Capacity: 64 oz.
Included: Motor base, 64-oz. pitcher, tamper stick
Warranty: 5 years, limited
