Last Updated: [Current Date]
Choosing the right Vitamix blender can feel overwhelming. Many shoppers often ask a similar question: “I want a Vitamix for smoothies, soups, and frozen desserts – which model should I choose?”. The truth is, every Vitamix excels at these tasks. The best model for you hinges on your blending volume needs and the features you value most.
For those who want a quick guide without delving into the specifics, here are our top Vitamix recommendations:
Top Vitamix Model Picks:
Best Value Vitamix
Premium Pick: Money Is No Object
Vitamix Shopping in [Current Month, Year]
Currently, many Vitamix models are on sale, particularly around holidays like President’s Day. Check out the latest Vitamix sales here.
Vitamix has recently updated their Ascent series with new models. For a comprehensive look, see our Vitamix Ascent X Series Review.
The Food Processor Attachment is a compelling reason to consider Ascent or Venturist models, as it’s not compatible with the classic series. If the premium aesthetics of the A3500 aren’t essential, the Reconditioned Venturist offers significant savings.
For budget-conscious buyers, the Reconditioned 5200, E310, and Reconditioned E320 are excellent choices. The primary difference lies in their containers. Use this Venn diagram to determine the ideal container for your needs, understanding the trade-offs between size and shape:
Important Note for International Shoppers: Model availability on this page is for the USA. Canadian shoppers should refer to our guide on Canadian Vitamix models.
For most users, we recommend focusing on these four categories: Certified Reconditioned models, Explorian Series, Premium Classic Series, and Ascent Series.
Exploring Reconditioned Vitamix Blenders
Reconditioned Vitamix blenders are a fantastic way to experience Vitamix quality at a lower price point. While some may hesitate about refurbished appliances, Vitamix’s reconditioned blenders are certified to meet stringent quality standards. The only reasons to consider a new model over reconditioned are for gifting purposes where a “new” product is preferred, or if you require features exclusive to newer, non-reconditioned models.
Delving into the Vitamix Explorian Series
Vitamix Explorian E310 Blender: Compact and powerful for everyday blending.
If you prefer a slightly smaller container, the E310 is highly recommended. It features a 48-oz container that is both short and narrow (full E310 review). The Explorian E320 is functionally almost identical to the E310 but comes with a wider container, making it very similar to the older 5300 model. The E320 effectively replaces the 5300 in Vitamix’s lineup, with minor differences: the E320 lacks a side on/off switch and an illuminated power indicator. These are generally considered minor differences for most users comparing the E320 vs 5300.
The Explorian series also includes the E520, which features a wide 64-oz container and adds 3 preset blending programs. With promotional discounts often available through Vitamix links on review sites, the Reconditioned E520 offers exceptional value.
Exploring Premium Classic and Propel Vitamix Models
For a premium Vitamix experience without the advanced technology of the Ascent series, the Professional Series 750 is an excellent choice. While the Ascent series offers modern features, some users may prefer the traditional controls or compatibility with older containers (without NFC chips) found in the Classic series.
In [Current Year], Vitamix introduced the Propel series, which shares similarities with the Pro 750, including preset modes and a secondary on/off switch. Propel models also incorporate the updated styling first seen in the Explorian series: Propel 510 and Propel 750.
Unveiling the Ascent Series: Smart System Blenders
If you’re looking towards the future of Vitamix blending technology, the Ascent Series is the way to go. Priced similarly to new Legacy models, the Ascent series offers several upgrades including a longer warranty, a built-in timer display, compatibility with smaller blending cups without adaptors, and wireless connectivity to a smartphone app.
Vitamix Ascent A3500 in Brushed Stainless Steel: Premium design and smart blending technology.
Within the Ascent Series, the A2300 is the most affordable option and provides all essential features. For reconditioned options, the A2500 is the entry-level reconditioned Ascent model, offering variable speed control and 3 preset program modes. For a premium Ascent experience, the A3500 is recommended for its premium finishes. (While intermediate Ascent models are capable, the A2300 and A3500 represent the best value and premium options respectively). Refer to our Ascent review page for in-depth details.
If budget is a concern, Vitamix offers payment plans to make owning a Vitamix more accessible, with zero financing fees for on-time payments.
If you’re still undecided, feel free to leave a comment below or contact us for personalized guidance.
Pre-Ascent Vitamix Model Comparison
For a quick visual overview of Vitamix models before the Ascent series, explore our comparison chart.
Our interactive model selection tool helps you explore features and narrow down your choices. Click or tap on feature names for explanations and select features of interest. You can easily unselect options and click on any model to visit its page on Vitamix.com or continue reading for more model details.
+ Show model selection toolSelect the features that interest you. Hover over or tap feature names for an explanation. Don’t hesitate to start selecting features—you can unselect them instantly without leaving this page. You can click any model to go to its Vitamix.com page, or you can read more about the different models below.
Recon S30 S30 2-Speed 5200 Pro 500 Pro 750 7500 + 32oz Pro 750 + 32oz 780 780 + 32oz
(For a 32-oz container, add it separately to your cart: 32-oz container link)
If you’re feeling lost in the choices and want a straightforward recommendation, after using various Vitamix models, our daily choice before the Ascent series was the 7500, paired with an additional 32-oz container for smaller blends. (For the best value, consider certified reconditioned options.) Ultimately, all Vitamix models are excellent, and there’s no truly wrong choice. (Plus, Vitamix offers a full refund within 30 days, including free return shipping, if you change your mind.)
Key Differences in Vitamix Models
Choosing the right Vitamix involves considering five main factors:
The comparison chart below illustrates the relationships between models in the S-Series, C-Series, and G-Series. Models within the same box are generally identical, differing primarily in included accessories and cookbooks (exceptions include S50 vs S55 and Pro 750 vs 780 due to feature variations). Accessory and cookbook differences are usually minor, so prioritizing the lowest-priced model within a comparable group is often recommended.
(“+” indicates more expensive options are available beyond the listed price. Models excluded from the chart include the Vitamix TurboBlend Two Speed and Three Speed due to lack of variable speed, and the hybrid Vitamix 5300 and 6500 which combine a 7500 container with a 6300 base, with and without presets respectively.)
Personal Blenders: S-Series vs. C-Series and G-Series
Vitamix S30 and S55 vs. 5200, 7500, and more
In 2014, Vitamix launched the Vitamix S30, a smaller model with a combination blending container and to-go smoothie cup. The Vitamix S50 and Vitamix S55, released in 2015, are similar to the S30 but include preset modes. For a detailed comparison, see our Vitamix S30 and S-Series review. If a smaller blender or blending directly into a to-go cup appeals to you, explore the S-Series. Note that the S-Series has a lower maximum capacity (40 oz) compared to larger models (64 oz).
Variable Speed Control: Is it Necessary?
Vitamix Two Speed vs. 5200 and Vitamix 6000 vs. 6300
Vitamix 5200 with Variable Speed Control: Precision blending for various textures.
Variable speed control, available on most Vitamix models except the Two Speed and 6000, is beneficial when you desire textured blends. Examples include pesto, salsa, or chopping vegetables. Without variable speed, pulsing can achieve some texture, but with less control. Variable speed also enhances the “bubble removal trick”, though pulsing at low speed also works.
Preset Programs: Convenience or Necessity?
Vitamix Two Speed vs. 6000, 5200 vs. 6300, Pro Series 200 vs. 500, S30 vs. S55, and Pro Series 300 vs. 750
Preset programs on models like the 6000, 6300/Pro 500, S55, and Pro 750 automate blending cycles for specific tasks. Benefits include:
- Hands-free operation: Start the program and walk away.
- Consistent results: Potentially more consistent outcomes when strictly following recipes.
- Ease of use for beginners: Presets can simplify operation for new users.
However, presets aren’t always foolproof. Tamping may still be needed for initial ingredient circulation, and preset times may not suit recipe modifications. Smoothies might require additional blending time after a preset cycle. While presets are highly useful in commercial settings with repetitive recipes, their value for home users with varied recipes and volumes is debatable. Determining when blending is complete becomes intuitive with experience. While presets add convenience, machines with presets still offer full manual control via variable speed. The added cost of presets is a personal consideration.
C-Series vs. G-Series (Next Generation) Vitamix Blenders
Vitamix 5200 vs. 7500, and Professional Series 500 vs. 750
Vitamix G-Series Container: Wider base and shorter profile for enhanced blending.
Vitamix introduced the “Next Generation” or “G-Series” models in 2012, featuring updated base and container designs. The base offers improved sound dampening and airflow for cooler operation. The G-Series container features a wider design with a 4-inch blade, compared to the “C-Series” classic 3-inch blade, while maintaining the same 64-oz capacity.
Advantages of the wider G-Series design:
- Reduced need for tamper: Ingredients fall more readily onto the blades.
- Improved chopping: Efficiently chops larger quantities at once.
- Easier to scrape thick blends: Simpler removal of dense mixtures.
Advantage of the shorter container height:
- Easier storage: Fits under standard kitchen cabinets at 17.5″ tall with the lid on the base.
Advantages of the 4-inch blade:
- Faster processing: Reduced blending time.
- Potentially smoother blends: Under certain conditions.
Disadvantage of the G-Series container:
- Less efficient with small volumes: Under ~2 cups, the wider container can lead to more splashing and requires a slightly larger minimum volume for optimal blending compared to the narrower C-Series container. For example, nut butter requires approximately 4 cups in G-Series vs 3 cups in C-Series containers for best results. For more liquid blends under 1 cup, G-Series containers may produce more splashing.
This is a minor concern if you primarily blend larger quantities or are willing to acquire a narrow container for smaller blends. The 32-oz container or 48-oz container are excellent additions for smaller volume blending.
(Narrow C-Series containers are compatible with G-Series bases, but G-Series containers are not recommended for C-Series bases due to the increased load from the longer blades, potentially exceeding the C-Series cooling system’s capacity.)
Reconditioned Vitamix: A Smart Choice?
Opting for a reconditioned Vitamix is a cost-effective way to own a high-performance blender. For detailed information on reconditioned models, refer to our refurbished Vitamix page.
Exploring Vitamix Model Series in Detail
The extensive range of Vitamix blenders can seem confusing, but many models share significant similarities. We focus on consumer/home models, excluding commercial blenders which are less suitable for home use due to higher cost and shorter warranties (3-year commercial vs. 7-year home warranty, reflecting their design for constant use).
The Vitamix website lists over 30 home models, but these are variations of three core designs: “personal” (S-Series), “standard/classic” (C-Series), and “next generation” (G-Series). These designs encompass approximately 8 distinct machine types, with remaining models offering variations in containers and accessories.
S-Series Motors: Compact and Convenient
For those prioritizing a smaller footprint, dishwasher-safe containers, and to-go blending options, our comprehensive Vitamix S30, S50, and S55 review provides complete details. S-Series bases measure 8.3″ deep x 5.9″ wide x 7.7″ tall. Total height with the 20-oz to-go container is 14.55″, and 15.66″ with the 40-oz container. While offering lower power than larger models, S-Series blenders are still capable of creating typical Vitamix recipes in smaller quantities.
C-Series Motors (Standard/Classic): The Foundation of Vitamix
Standard C-Series motors come in three control variations, with base dimensions of 8.75″ deep x 7.25″ wide x 8.25″ tall. Container size options include 32 oz, 48 oz, and 64 oz, resulting in total heights of 16.9″, 17.4″, and 20.5″ respectively.
Standard, No Variable Speed: Vitamix TurboBlend Two Speed and Three Speed
Vitamix TurboBlend Two Speed: Affordable and powerful, ideal for simple blending tasks.
TurboBlend Two Speed (around $349, reconditioned around $299) offers a 5-year warranty and lacks variable speed control. While variable speed provides finer texture control, pulsing can achieve some textured chopping. However, the reconditioned 5200, with variable speed and the same warranty for a lower price, is generally a more recommended option.
The TurboBlend Three Speed (around $499) introduced in [Month Year] features low, medium, and high speed settings plus a pulse switch. Given its price point and a shorter 5-year warranty compared to variable speed models like the 5200, it presents a less compelling value proposition.
Standard Variable Speed: Vitamix 5200 and Similar Models
This category represents Vitamix’s core lineup, encompassing models like the 5200 (around $449), TurboBlend VS (discontinued), CIA Pro (discontinued), Pro 200 (around $499), Creations II (around $449), and Creations GC (discontinued); reconditioned models are available around $329. These models are functionally nearly identical, differing mainly in container size (64-oz or shorter 48-oz options), aesthetics, and warranty (5-year for Creations, 7-year for others). Cookbooks also vary slightly. Reconditioned purchases do not allow model selection, but functionally they are the same.
Color-specific SKUs for the 5200 include Vitamix 1709, 1363, 1364, 1365, 1709, 1723, 1732, and VM0103. Vitamix 1978 is also a 5200 variant with a 48-oz container.
Standard Variable Speed + Presets: Vitamix 6300 and Professional Series 500
Vitamix Professional Series 500: Variable speed with convenient preset programs.
Pro 500 (around $559) and 6300 (discontinued), with reconditioned models around $379, are essentially the same model. The 6300 includes the “Savor” cookbook, while the Pro 500 comes with the “Create” cookbook (more restaurant-focused). They feature 3 presets for smoothies, frozen desserts, and hot soups. Control panel switches differ slightly from non-preset models, replacing the high-variable speed switch with a pulse switch. Pulsing is still achievable on non-preset models via the on/off switch.
Presets offer convenience for walk-away operation and potentially consistent results with standardized recipes. However, consistent results depend on ingredient consistency, and manual operation remains an option. The variable speed knob on preset models has a slightly faster low-speed setting compared to the 5200, offering slightly less fine control at the lowest speeds. The value of presets is subjective.
Standard No Variable Speed + Presets: Vitamix 6000
6000 (discontinued), released in [Month Year], combines features of the Two Speed and 6300. It lacks variable speed but offers six timed presets (20 sec, 30 sec, 1 min, 1.5 min, 4.5 min, 6.5 min). The pulse control is spring-loaded, operating at a medium-low speed only while held.
G-Series Motors (Next Generation): Enhanced Performance
Introduced in 2012, G-Series bases offer improved airflow and quieter operation compared to C-Series. The improved cooling enables the use of wider containers with longer blades, reducing tamper dependence and improving chopping efficiency. G-Series models are compatible with C-Series containers. Dimensions are 9.4″ deep x 7.7″ wide x 17.5″ tall (with the new-style 64-oz container). See PDF footprints for size details.
Next Generation Motor: Vitamix 7500, Professional Series 300, and Creations Elite
Vitamix 7500: Next-generation power and quieter operation.
7500 (around $529), Creations Elite (around $557.50), and Pro 300 (around $559); reconditioned models are around $439 and may be labeled as any of these models. These are fundamentally the same machine, differing only in branding. Creations Elite is sold new with a smaller container, but reconditioned versions typically include the low-profile 64-oz container of the 7500.
Next Generation Motor + Presets: Vitamix Professional Series 750 and Vitamix 780
Vitamix 780: Touchscreen controls and preset programs for modern blending.
Pro 750 (around $599–$649), 780 (around $719); reconditioned options include the 750 (around $499) and 780 (around $399). These models feature 5 presets: smoothies, frozen desserts, purées, hot soups, and self-cleaning. See our Vitamix presets demystified guide for details. The 780 is identical to the Pro 750 except for its touchpanel interface. See our Vitamix 780 review for more information.
Vitamix Heritage 750 vs. Original 750
In late [Year], Vitamix released the Heritage 750, a new version of the Pro 750. Functionally equivalent to the original Pro 750, the Heritage 750 features a metal upper shell (previously plastic with a metallic coating on the original brushed stainless steel model) for increased durability and slightly quieter operation. The Heritage models also have fewer backlights on the front panel compared to the original Pro 750.
Vitamix Heritage 750 in Copper Finish: Durable metal finish and classic Vitamix performance.
Heritage models are available in brushed stainless steel and copper finishes. (Heritage options are listed on the main Pro 750 page, with the original brushed stainless steel finish discontinued.) The Heritage line evokes the all-metal bases of early Vitamix models, though the plastic used in recent decades is also highly durable.
Vitamix 5300 and 6500: Hybrid Models
5300 (around $529) and 6500 (around $599); reconditioned 5300 models are around $360. These [Year] models are hybrids, combining a G-Series wide container with a C-Series base. The 5300 has variable speed and pulse, while the 6500 adds the same three presets as the 6300. The reconditioned 5300 is the most affordable option with a short/wide container.
These models are unusual as Vitamix previously advised against using Next Gen containers on Classic bases due to cooling considerations. It’s suspected the 5300 includes the same microprocessor speed control as G-Series and 6300 models. Marketing claims of a “faster, yet quieter motor” for the 5300 are questionable. The 5300 and 6500 are louder than G-Series bases due to the C-Series base’s lack of sound dampening. At a similar price, the 7500 is generally preferable.
Vitamix Satisfaction Guarantee
Vitamix offers a 30-day satisfaction guarantee, allowing returns within 30 days for a full refund, including free return shipping.
Vitamix Warranty Coverage
Vitamix warranties cover repairs or replacements for 5 or 7 years, including two-way shipping costs. See our Vitamix Warranty page for details.
Reconditioned Vitamix: Exceptional Value
Certified Reconditioned Vitamix: Get premium blending power at a reduced price.
Reconditioned Vitamix blenders offer outstanding value. Examples include the 5200 for around $329, Pro 500 for around $379, and 7500 for around $439. See our refurbished Vitamix guide for more information.
Vitamix Payment Plans
Vitamix provides payment plans with zero interest and fees for timely payments. See our payment plan page for details.
Free Shipping on Vitamix Orders
Using Vitamix links on our site automatically applies a promotion code for free shipping on Vitamix machines (and orders over $50) in the US and Canada. See our Vitamix promotion code page for details.
Exclusive Bonus Offer
Orders placed through our links support Joy of Blending, and we offer priority support for customers ordering through our links. Forward your order confirmation to [email protected] after using our link to order.
Recommended Vitamix Accessory
A spatula is highly recommended for removing thick blends. A long narrow spatula is ideal for narrow containers, and Vitamix’s under-blade scraper is recommended for wide containers.
Considering a Dry Container?
Our guide Is the dry container worth it? can help you decide if a dry container is necessary for your needs.
This concludes our Vitamix model overview. We look forward to sharing more recipes soon!
