Which is the Best Vitamix Blender to Buy? – All Models Comparison Guide 2020

Vitamix released a numerous variety of blenders in the past 14 years since their base 5200 model became available to the consumers. Today it is 19 models plus the exclusive packages produced for selected retailers. No wonder that this causes a lot of confusion and customers often puzzled which Vitamix to buy.

Luckily, the real differences between these numerous models are not so significant and in many cases even non-existent. And the most important fact that all models are able to accomplish the same standard Vitamix functions with no difference in the quality of performance. Thus, the choice is not as difficult as it may seem at first and the primary goal for any consumer is to choose the best model for her or his particular needs.

The most distinguishing characteristic of Vitamix models is the 2 different motors featuring 2HP and 2.2HP. The 2HP motors were produced over many years since the introduction of the Vitamix 5000 model and the 2.2HP was first released in 2012 only. However, the difference in the performance of these two motors is also very negligible. The other distinguishing features are the differences in the design and capacity of the containers, blade assemblies, the control panel, extra accessories, and smart technology features which became available with the release of the Ascent models at the end of 2016.

Besides, the Vitamix divides all their products into 3 product lines the Classic which the oldest one and includes the 5200 model, Smart System newer product with an array of new smart technology features, and Space Saving S-series personal blender product line which was released as the answer to the huge popularity of single-serve gadgets.

In this article, we will clarify the differences between the Vitamix model in order to make it an easier task for you to decide which Vitamix blender to buy and which model will serve your requirements in the best way.

Vitamix Classic Product Line

Vitamix Classic series product line includes the former C-series, G-series, and new budget series called Explorian.

Classic Explorian E310 and E320 Blenders

The Explorian Series is the budget Vitamix blenders that available in only 2 models – E310 and E320. These are the cheapest Vitamix blenders with the same functionality as C- series and G-series machines but $100-200 cheaper. The blenders come with the following common parameters:

• 2HP motor that enclosed in the original base unit which is the fusion of C-series and Ascent series;
• Minimalistic control panel which has 10-speed dial knob, Pulse and Start/Stop lever but no On/Off switcher on the back or side of the blender;
• Eastman Tritan copolyester, clear as glass, shatter and temperature resistant container with tamper;
• Long Full warranty;
• The 11” x 8” x 18” size dimensions and 4.5 ft. power cord;
• With the blenders profile of 18 inches, it will fit under the standard kitchen cabinet;
• Cookbook and user manual.

The only difference between these two models – the E310 comes with 48 oz. narrow bottom (3 inches blades) jar while E320 is equipped with 64 oz. wide bottom (4 inches blades) jar. That is a significant difference. Since the 48 oz. the narrow bottom container is designed for processing smaller volumes of food while the 64 oz. the wide bottom container handles better the larger food batches. The minimum processing volumes for the 48 ounces the container is 1-3 cups while 64 oz. jar handles a minimum of 3-4 cups of preloaded food depending on the processed food thickness.

The E310 comes with a 5-years Full warranty, while the E320 has a standard for Classic Product Line 7-years Full warranty, and a certified reconditioned model has only 3- years Full warranty. The low price of E310 and E320 refurbished machines are reflected in the shorter warranty and the absence of an on-off switch on the side.

Accessories and Attachments

There is a range of extra accessories and containers available for the Vitamix Explorian E310 and E320 blenders:

• 48 oz. Stainless Steel Container:
• 48 oz. wet narrow bottom container;
• 64 oz. wet narrow bottom container;
• 32 oz. wet narrow bottom container;
• 32 oz. dry container;
• Personal Blender Attachment with Personal Cup Adapter and two (2) 20 ounces Single Serve Cups;
• 48 oz. Aer Disc Container 
• Perfect Blend Smart Scale and Recipe App 

How to Choose Between Explorian E310 and E320 Models

The consumer who is looking for the cheapest Vitamix blender should go for one of the Explorian models. The manufacture prices both models at $350, however,  it is often possible to grab them under $300. The certified refurbished models are available for bargain Vitamix price of under $280.

The E310 can process the smaller minimum volume of foods and with a smaller total capacity jar, it will better serve smaller households with 4 people and less. While the E320 handles 3-4 cups minimum volume and with a total jar capacity of 64 oz. it is more suitable for larger households of 4 and more people. Both Explorian E320 and E310 blenders will fit under the standard kitchen cabinet.

Classic Vitamix G-Series Product Line

The Next Generation product line includes only 5 models – Vitamix 7500, Professional series 300, Creation Elite, Professional Series 750, and Vitamix 780. Vitamix G-Series product blenders share the following common features:

• The base unit design that enclosed the new 2.2 HP motor with enhanced airflow management system;
• Improved noise reducing system that makes G-Series machines are output 40% less noise compare to C-Series;
• Low profile wider bottom 64 oz. pitcher with an inbuilt 4 inches blade. The containers made of Eastman Tritan copolyester premium quality BPA-free copolyester material and only 10.1 inches tall;
• Base unit footprint is 9.4 x 7.7 inches;
• The height of the assembled blender with the pitcher on the top of the base unit and lid is 17.5 inches only what allows these blenders to fit easily under standard kitchen cabinets.

The differences between these machines are quite clear and should not confuse the customers. They differed only by the control panel design and capacity of containers. The Vitamix Next Generation Product Line could be divided into 3 categories Next Generation Standard, Next Generation with Programs, and Touchscreen Blender.

Next-Generation Standard category includes 7500, Professional series 300, Creation Elite blenders distinguished by the control panel equipped with 10 variable speeds, Pulse, and On/Off switches. These three packages are identical except they come with different cookbooks and the Creation Elite has 48 oz. narrow bottom pitcher instead of 64 oz. and comes with 5 years warranty instead of typical for Vitamix G-series 7 years.

The Next Generation with Programs Professional Series 750 blender features a control panel equipped with 10 variable speed dial, Pulse and On/Off switches, and 5 pre-set programs – Smoothies, Hot Soups, Frozen Desserts, Purées, and Self-Cleaning. These pre-set are just the timed programs that automatically stop the blender after the preset period of time. It comes with cookbooks, user manuals, and 7 years full warranty.

Vitamix 780 model comes with the same technical parameters and features like the Vitamix Pro 750 model including 5 pre-set programs but it is equipped with the latest sensitive modern touch control panel. So it has a very sleek modern look and the tap buttons that are activated by the touch. It comes also with the cookbook and 7 years Full warranty.

Accessories and Attachments

The Vitamix manufacture the following additional accessories and attachments the are compatible with the Vitamix -series product line:

• 32 oz and 48 os Wet blade containers
• 32 oz Dry blade container 
• Stainless steel container 
• Personal Blender Attachment with Personal Cup Adapter and two (2) 20 ounces Single Serve Cups
• 48 oz. Aer Disc Container 
• Perfect Blend Smart Scale and Recipe App 

How to Choose Between Classic former G-Series Models

It is not difficult deciding between Next Generation blenders. The blender’s best suit the larger household that will serve 4 and more people and handles a minimum of 3-4 cups of initially loaded ingredients.

Those who prefer a narrow bottom 48 ounces jar that handles smaller batches of food (1-2 minimum) should go for the Creation Elite model. Those who are looking for a bargain should consider a certified reconditioned Next Generation model. Customers who are fascinated to have the blender with pre-set programs will go for Vitamix 750. The consumers who will enjoy the responsive touchscreen control panel buy the Vitamix 780 model. The only problem with the Vitamix 780 model that is probably the most expensive Vitamix model, but you can go for the certified refurbished model which will cost you approx $450. All G-series models a bit shorter than Explorian ones and also will fit under the typical kitchen cabinet.

Classic Vitamix C-Series Classic Blenders

C-series is the oldest Vitamix product line that includes 5 based models – Standard 5200, Standard programs, TurboBlend Two Speed,  5300, and 6500 – the differences between them are straightforward.

The blenders divided into 2 main categories:

• With 2HP motor and high profile container;
• With newer design 2.2HP motor and low profile container.

Besides, the models inside of each category differ with the design and functionality of the control panel.

Blenders with 2.0HP Motor

The 2HP motor blenders are available in 3 based models – Vitamix 5200 Standard  (could be also sold under the Professional Series 200 or 6300 names), Standard programs (also known under Professional series 500 and 6300 names), and TurboBlend Two Speed. Their models share the following common features:

• 2HP motor with an automatic shut-off system to stop the machine when overheated what prevents the motor breakdown;
• The motor enclosed in the classical C-series design base unit;
• The high profile narrow bottom 64 oz. jar made from Eastman Tritan copolyester the stress and temperature resistant type of polycarbonate;
•  A non-removable blade assembly with 3 inches (in diameter) dull by design blades;
• The 64 oz. container is 13.4 inches tall;
• The 64 oz. container on the top of the base unit and lid will have a total height of 20.5 inches. So, the machine with 64 oz. the container will not fit under standard kitchen cabinet;
• 5 or 7 years Full warranty depending on the model.

The blenders equipped with 2HP motor differ by only control panel design and functionality. The Vitamix 5200/Professional Series 200 blender control panel equipped with 10 variable speed dial and two switchers – High/Variable speeds and On/Off lever;

This Standard program (Professional Series 500 or 6300) machines control panel is equipped with 10 variable speeds, Pulse and Start/Stop lever, and 3 pre-set programs (Hot Soups, Frozen Desserts, and Smoothies). Standard programs model in Canada sold under the TNC 3 name.

The TurboBlend Two Speed model control panel features High/Low speeds and On/Off switches. The TurboBlend Two Speed machine has no variable speed dial but for many users, this seems sufficient because it makes these machines very easy to use and equipped with the same power as any other Vitamix machine.

Blenders with 2.2HP Motor

Blenders with 2.2HP Motor include 2 models – Vitamix 5300 and 6500. These models are the fusion of C and G series because they share the selection of C and G series typical features:

• The newer updated 2.2HP motor the typical for the G-series but classical base unit design;
• Low profile wider bottom 64 oz. containers which made of high quality shatter proofed and tolerant to high temperatures Tritan copolyester material;
• The container is 10.1 inches tall and when placed on the base unit with closed lid are total 17.5 inches, this will fit under the standard 18 inched cabinets;
• With permanently inbuilt into container 4 inches (in diameter) blades;
• 7 years Full warranty but do not include recipe books.

The 5300 and 6500 blenders differ only by control panel functions, the Vitamix 5300 comes with the 10 variable speed dial and two switchers – Pulse switcher and On/Off switches. While the 6500 model equipped with an additional 3 pre-sets programs – Smoothie, Hot Soup, and Frozen Dessert.

The 6500 was primarily released for selling at Costco but now available from other retailers. The most popular however is the Vitamix 5300 model because it sells at a very attractive price which reconditioned model is sold for under $360.

Accessories and Attachments

There are following additional accessories are available to buy for the C-series Classic blenders:

• 48 oz. Stainless Steel Container:
• 48 oz. wet narrow bottom container;
• 64 oz. wet narrow bottom container;
• 32 oz. wet narrow bottom container;
• 32 oz. dry container;
• Personal Blender Attachment with Personal Cup Adapter and two (2) 20 ounces Single Serve Cups;
• 48 oz. Aer Disc Container 
• Perfect Blend Smart Scale and Recipe App 

How to Choose Between Vitamix C-Series Blenders

Any C-series Vitamix model is able to produce excellent quality of blending and will output a similar final result. So, which criteria should be taken into consideration by the consumer while selecting the particular model?

If you intend to use the Vitamix blender for blending small batches and large batches of food than you should go for any blender with the 2.0HP motor that is equipped with the classical high profile narrow bottom container – Standard 5200, Standard programs, TurboBlend Two Speed,  5300, and 6300 models. The high profile container is designed to process small and large batches of food with the same degree of quality. This container will equally well process from 1 cup to 8 cups of ingredients for smoothies with no visible quality difference. However, these models have a profile of 20.5 inches and will not fit under the standard kitchen cabinet.

The pre-set programs are not designed to perform anything unusual what standard models cannot output. And the experienced and creative cooker most likely to ignore them because they do not allow to experiment with food preparation. While those who will use the blender for quick morning smoothies and will enjoy the function that allows pushing a button and walk away (blender stops automatically when the program finished) will be absolutely happy with the pre-set programs option.

The low profile container models will effectively process only 2-3 cups of food minimum, this machine will suit a better larger household that needs to serve 4 and more people. These models – Vitamix 5300 and 6500 – will easily fit into the standard kitchen cabinet. They are also designed with a slightly more effective noise dampening system and will suit noise-sensitive customers.

The consumer who are looking for bargain probably must consider certified refurbished models. Those who still want to buy the original model shell look to the classic 5200 or 5300 model that is often offered at the bargain price.

Vitamix Space Saving or S-Series Product Line

The first Vitamix S-Series blender S30 was released in 2014 with the following S50 and S55 models in 2015. These machines are the personal type of blender’s product line of Vitamix Company. The signature feature of these blenders the compact base unit and to-go containers which suitable for blending smoothies right in this container, then flip it over, replace the blade assembly with the to-go lid and it is ready to be taken out. The s30, s50, and s55 machines present:

• Sleek design base unit with enclosed 840 watts-at-peak motor;
• Control panel equipped with 10 variable speeds, pulse mode;
• The S50 and S55 are equipped with two or four pre-set programs respectively;
• The compact size of the base unit measures 6 inches wide, 9 inches long and 8 inches tall;
• Removable blade assembly with 2.5 inches (7.6 cm) in diameter blade;
• Two Tritan copolyester containers – 20 oz. the double-walled take-out cup with a height of 14.55 inches and 40 oz. vented container with a height of 15.66 inches when they placed on the top of the base;
• One flip-top lid to fit a to-go container;
• The custom tamper to be used with 40 oz. container.

The only difference between S30, S50, and S55 models are the pre-programmed setting available for the S50 machine (Smoothies and Power Blends) and S55 machine (Smoothies, Power Blends, Dips and Spreads, and Frozen Desserts). These three packages also come with different cookbooks. All Vitamix S-series models come with 5 years Full warranty.

Vitamix S30, S50, and S55 blenders have identical dimensions – footprint 8.34” x 5.9” and profile 14.55” with 20 oz. cup and 15.66” jug on the top of the base unit. So they easily fit under any kitchen cabinet. All come with a similar weight of 12 lb 6-ounce.

How to Choose Between Space Saving S-Series Models

It is very easy to choose between the S30, S50, and S55 machines. They are absolutely identical and differ only by pre-set programs available. Those who enjoy this pre-set should select S50 or S55 machines, while those who are not interested in pre-set would be better off with the S30 blender because it is simply cheaper.

Vitamix Smart System Product Line

Smart system blenders are the most recent Vitamix product line that was released on 26 December 2016 and presents last technology design and engineering. The blenders not only inherited powerful motor and efficient blending from typical Vitamix machines but added many new technology features that promise to make the Smart System or Ascent product line are most advanced for many years ahead.

The Smart System Blenders product line includes four Ascent models (Vitamix A2300, A2500, A3300, and A3500) and one budget Venturist model designed for Costco. The smart system blenders share the following common features:

• New base unit design (11” x 8” x 17” in size) with standard 2.2HP motor and standard Vitamix cooling and automatic shut-off systems that make machine long-lasting and safe;
• Smart self-detect container system, which allows recognizing the container type (64 oz., 48 oz., 20 oz. or 8 oz.) placed on the base unit and automatically adjust the time and programs to particular jar;
• Wireless Bluetooth connectivity allows to connect your Ascent Vitamix blender with smartphone best blend app and smart scale what allow to unleash the 500+ recipes and many more;
• Digital or touchscreen programmable control panel, depending on the model;
• 10 variable speeds, Pulse functions, pre-set programs and programmable timer functions (depending on the model);
• 64 oz. high quality, impact-resistant, low profile, and wide bottom copolyester Self Detect containers with 4-inch blades;
• New transparent lid;
• Incredible 10 years Full warranty;
• Fully dishwasher safe that means all part excluding the base unit;
• An array of new compatible between smart system product line of accessories such as 48 oz., container, 20 oz. cup, and 8 oz. bowl, Aer Disc Container, smart scales that go with the best app; 
• All Vitamix Ascent models – A2300, A2500, A3300, and A3500 – will fit under the standard kitchen cabinet.

Vitamix Ascent A2300 vs A2500 

The Vitamix Ascent A2300 and A2500 (full review) are the budget Ascent Vitamix models. Although, they come with all smart technology Ascent line features but have simple control panel functionality.

These models control panel equipped with the variable speed dial knob, the Pulse, Start/Stop switches, and a digital timer that counts up/downtime while the blender runs variable-speed or pre-set program cycles. The only difference between the models – the A2500 control panel equipped with 3 pre-set programs (Smoothies, Frozen Dessert, Hot Soup) that A2300 does not has. Nevertheless, the same pre-set programs (and more) could be sent to A2300 blender using the Bluetooth and best app smart technology

Vitamix Ascent A3300 vs A3500 

The Vitamix Ascent A3300/3500 models (full review) are currently the most premium Vitamix blenders. They have not only the latest new technology features the Vitamix upgraded the Smart system product line with but also absolutely innovative touchscreen control panel design.

That is equipped with a variable 10-speed dial knob digital display, touchable Pulse, Start/Stop buttons, a digital timer that counts up/down blending time, the programmable timer that allows manually set blending time for your specific recipes. Additionally, the A3500 also includes an additional 5 pre-set programs such as Smoothies, Frozen Desserts, Hot Soups, Dips/Spreads, and Self-Cleaning. However, you can send 17 pre-set programs to your A3300 blenders via the best app facilities.

Vitamix Venturist Blender

Vitamix Venturist is the budget Vitamix Smart system blender designed for Costco. It has all smart technology features such as self –detect containers and wireless connectivity. However, it has a different interior base unit design and control panel.

The V1200 has the same control panel as the A2300 with the physical dial knob and switches but has a programmable timer similar to A3300. The only difference, its control panel control buttons are not capacitive touch but bit protruded and must be pressed.

So, you can send pre-set programs to the V1200 via the best app.

Accessories and Attachments

There is a list of following accessories and attachments that are available to buy for the Vitamix Ascent  product line blenders:

48-ounce Wet Stainless Steel Container. 

48-ounce Wet SELF-DETECT Container. 

48-ounce Dry Grains SELF-DETECT Container. 

20 oz. SELF-DETECT Blending Cup Starter Kit. 

8 oz. SELF-DETECT Blending Bowls Starter Kit 

48 oz. Aer Disc Container 

Perfect Blend Smart Scale and Recipe App 

How to Choose Between Ascent Machines

Vitamix Ascent A2300/2500 vs A3300/3500 models have absolutely identical motors and jars but differs only buy control panel design and functionality. So, if you are attracted by the self-detect and wireless connectivity feature but prefer the budget model than go for A2300 or 2500. If you wish to buy a flagship and best blender on the market with the programmable feature you should select A3300 or A3500 blender. However, if you want a blender with all-new Ascent features and programmable timer but have a tight budget then the Venturist V1200 blender will be a perfect option for you.

Despite being the newest product line the Ascent blenders’ prices are not going beyond the usual price range for Vitamix blenders. The Ascent A2300 and A2500 blenders fall in the same price range as Vitamix Classic former C-series machines (5200 Standard, Standard Programs, and 5300) while the most advanced 3300 and 3500 models have the price in the same price range as former G-Series Classic models (7500 and Pro 750). However, the Vitamix website or Amazon often offers a good discount for these machines. The Certified Refurbished Ascent models available even at the considerably lower price.

Any of Vitamix blenders from the eldest Vitamix 5200 Classic C-Series blender to the latest Vitamix Ascent A3500 machine are able to output a fantastic job. The final blending results from any of these models would be almost impossible to distinguish. The difference between all Vitamix models is mainly in exterior appearance and control panel characteristics which do not significantly affect performance ability. These features conduct a precise value for different customers. So the customer may select the machine the most appealing in aesthetic terms or usability features.

Vitamix Certified Reconditioned Blender

Vitamix offers renewed blenders for most of the models including  Classic, Explorian, and Ascent Product Lines. These renewed or Certified Reconditioned models come with the new accessories such as containers and tamper and may have slightly used body unit without visible wears and tears signs. The blenders that are sold as renewed come from overstock, returned machines, or those that were used for live demonstrations in the past. All these machines go through the rigorous certification process before they are sold as certified reconditioned models.

Overalls, the renewed or Certified Refurbished models are a great option to buy this high-end blender for people on the budget. For more details on the renewed Vitamix machines check our article Vitamix Certified Refurbished Blenders – Are They Worth to Consider?

How to Choose Between the Vitamix Classic, Space Saving, and Smart System Machines

Explorian Blenders

If you are looking for bargain Vitamix, your obvious choice is the cheapest among all Vitamix blenders Explorian E310 and E320. They have a simple design, no electronics to break down, legendary Vitamix durability and warranty, the same 2.2HP powerful motor like Classic G-series and Ascent machines, and perform all the functions any other Vitamix machine does.

Additionally, you can select between the E310 model with the 48 oz. the jar which handles small volumes of food (minimum 1-5.5 cups) and designed for small households(4 people and less) and E320 with 64 oz. jar designed for larger batches of food (minimum 2-7.5 cups) and larger households(4 and more members).

Classic Blenders

The Classic Product Line includes the largest variety of models, so it serves any customer preferences excluding the high tech wireless connectivity features, which are represented by the Ascent Vitamix models.

The majority of Vitamix veterans trust that the classic 5200 model is the most versatile blender that does any task perfectly and the stay loyal to this machine. The blender comes with the classic 64 oz. jar and narrow bottom with 3 inches blades, so it allows experimenting with very small batches of ingredients without the need to buy the smaller extra container for this purpose. The classic high profile pitcher can process starting from 6 ounces (1 cup) or less for liquids and 3 cups for nut butter recipes while the low profile container will handle only starting from 2 cups minimum for liquids and 3.5-4 cups for nut butter recipes. If you intend to experiment with small and large volumes of food and want the perfect result for any of your recipes then the 5200 is the best choice for you.

Vitamix 5200 Blender, via Vitamix

There is also available very similar to 5200 machines, the standard programs model come with extra 3 pre-set programs and slightly expand the universal functionality of the machine. The cheapest 2 speed Turboblend 90% of the blending tasks does equally well, it is also the option to consider.

Those who still want classic blender controls that never breaks but prefer newer premium Vitamix machines must go for one of the 7500. If you like to have the pre-set programs than professional series 750 with a pre-set program option is the best choice for you. The Pro750 models are available with a premium metal finish for base unit option. The same category of customers who buy the blender for the small household must be benefited from Next Generation. Another important factor that may concern the customer is the noise that the blender outputs. The G-Series blenders are about 40% quieter than C-Series machines. The noise-sensitive customer should splash extra bucks to buy one of the Next Generation machines.

It should be mentioned that the 7500 and Pro 750 come with the wide bottom 64 oz. container and there are trade-offs handles the smaller batches of food and splashing less). While the wide bottom container needs less the tamper help when processing smoothies and perform better. So, those who prefer the next generation blenders but want to go the narrow bottom container can choose the Creation Elite machine which comes with 48 oz. jar.

Customers who love sensitive controls technology will choose Vitamix Next Generation 780 model with trendy sensitive touchscreen design, unfortunately, this is the most expensive model (even more expensive than Ascent models). However, you can go for the refurbished Vitamix 780 machine since it is offered at the friendlier price of $400-$450.

Vitamix 7500 Blender, via Amazon

Space Saving S-Series Machines

The consumers who are looking for a personal blender machine should go for S-Series gadgets. No doubt, there is no personal blender on the market with the combination of quality, functionality, and durability parameters comparable to Vitamix S30, S50, or S55 machines. The Vitamix personal size machines can perform almost all functions the countertop/full-size Vitamix does.

The only drawback, they are very expensive but bearing in mind the durability and quality of these machines, no doubts, these blenders will serve you 5 years and much longer and outlive any other cheaper price and personal blenders’ brands with surely poorer performance.

Vitamix S50 Blender, via Amazon

Ascent Blenders

If you are keen to have the latest technology blender with all breath-taking features then the Smart System Ascent blenders are beyond doubt what you are looking for. These models are available to use with several accessories specifically designed for the smart system blenders such as different capacity and functionality jars. The wireless connectivity technology allows you to send 17 programs to the machine to use them similar to pre-set programs, paired with a smart scale, and the Best app lets you try over 5000 recipes.

The A3300 and A3500 also come with the programmable timer function, so you can experiment with new and custom made recipes. The Vitamix confirms it will continue to introduce new high tech features in the future so you surely will be up-to-date for many years ahead with the blenders.

Apart from all these fancy “bells and whistles” the Ascent models pledged to be the quietest Vitamix product line while the A3500 with the metal finished base unit is 2-3 decibels quieter than the rest of the Ascent models. 

Vitamix Ascent A3500, A3300, A2500, and A2300 Blenders, via Vitamix