01.Introduction
Our review of 10 benchtop blenders, priced from $20 to $379, has found the most expensive models usually get the job done best.
We've assessed how well each blender can:
- crush ice
- chop carrots, and
- blend soup
On this page:
For more information about benchtop appliances, see Kitchen.
The recommended models were excellent for performance. The Cuisinart SSB-1A Hot and Cold Blender is a bit different to the rest we've tested - it not only chops and blends but an integrated heating element means it can brown, boil and simmer as well.
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If you’re after a benchtop blender, there are a few things to take into consideration:
- Make sure the jug sits stable on the main unit. During testing we noticed a few that were unstable and could be knocked over quite easily.
- Consider the weight of the jug. The jug can get quite heavy when full, so if you're struggling to lift the jug when it's empty or find the grip to be awkward then keep looking.
- When it comes to cleaning, one with removable blades will help clean around the bottom of the jug. A handy tip that most manufacturers state in their instructions is to put a bit of warm, soapy water into your jug and to turn on the blender for a few seconds. This will help to remove mixtures of the sides and bottom of the blender, however some cleaning in your kitchen sink will still be required.
Brands and models tested
- Abode Glass Blender (XJ-10402)
- Breville ikon 550 blender BBL550
- Breville Power blender BLR50
- Cuisinart SSB-1A Hot and Cold Blender
- Kambrook Power Drive Blender KBL110
- Kenwood kMix Blender BLX51
- Kenwood BL460
- KitchenAid 5-Speed Blender 5KSB650AEB1
- Sunbeam Multiblender Pro PB7600
- Sunbeam Café Series Blender PB7950
How we test
Performance The following tests are weighted equally to determine the performance score.
- Blending Our home economist, Fiona Mair, blends potato and leek soup to assess the blenders ability to produce a uniform homogeneous puree with no lumps of potato or leek.
- Chopping Fiona chops carrot, a hard food, so as to assess the blenders ability to chop this type of food evenly.
- Crushing She crushes ice which is hard and slippery so as to assess the blenders ability to crush and produce fine crystals.
Ease of use Fiona assesses how stable the jug is on the unit as well as how heavy it is to lift. She also assesses how easy the controls are to use and how easy the blender is to clean.
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