Trying to figure out which Vitamix to get it tricky. The following reminders about what to consider before you buy should help.
Don’t worry about new tech. “I’m concerned about the touch controls and digital timer.” I hear that. Several years into making Ascent models, the tech has held up: Touch controls, digital timers, responsive programs, et al are demonstrably durable. And you’re covered by a multi-year warranty that customers exercise less than 2% of the time. But if you want none of it (mechanical controls only), there are good options. No reason to force yourself into a situation that makes you uncomfortable.
Don’t get stuck on a few bad reviews. “I saw reviews about getting error codes and non-responsive containers.” Totally. You get 60-day returns plus multi-years of free warranty service if you happen to be in the unlucky 2% of folks that need it. Too, Ascent models’ have improved in build quality every year. It’s like the car industry: Anyone working on an automobile assembly line will tell you to buy a late-year model because those are built better. As time goes on, they get better at building them with improved parts, processes, etc. Same with Vitamix products. If, however, you see a consensus of the reviews saying something is mediocre, perhaps that product isn’t a good fit.
Don’t read too much into pricing. “Why are Ascent Series the same price as Legacy? Aren’t Ascent newer, more feature-rich, and come with a longer warranty?” Vitamix has priced its Ascent Series models so they’re attractive to purchase. On paper, Ascent should cost more than Legacy. And because they’re not (but newer), they signal lesser value. But Vitamix is playing the long game when you consider the many Ascent-exclusive accessories. Your long-term value (LTV) as an Ascent Series owner is more than if you got a Legacy model. So they might make less on your initial purchase. But you’ll spend more on accessories and be more engaged with the company over a greater period of time if you get an Ascent Series.
Don’t think you need a second container. A secondary, narrow-bodied container, like a 48-ounce, can be helpful. But you probably don’t need one right away. Narrow-bodied Vitamix containers are nice for making smaller batches of thick blends like ice cream, nut butter, and hummus. With a narrow-bodied container, you only need 2-3 cups of ingredients instead of 3-4. Aside from super thick blends, a secondary container may be helpful for:
- Grinding dry grains
- Special diets (nut-free, gluten-free, kosher, etc.)
- Blending tiny batches of thinner blends (dressings, baby food, spice grinds, etc.)
If you are doing any of those listed above today, then yes, you should get another container. But, if you’re not doing these today, you should hold off. A minimalist approach is best, and if you decide you need another container, they usually go on sale a couple of times per year.
Don’t be afraid of the (wide) low-profile 64-ounce container. “I’m worried that the low-profile 64-ounce container is too big for me.” The challenge with the low-profile 64-ounce container is small batches of thick blends. One cup of nut butter, for example, is tricky because you need to use the tamper and there are not enough ingredients for the tamper to reach. For all other blends, the low-profile 64-ounce container works great. We’ve made 12-ounce Frappuccinos in this container with ease.
Don’t misunderstand the programs (automated blending). “What happens if I want to make something that it’s not programmed for?” All Vitamix blenders that have programs also have variable speed controls. So you can use the dial to control the variable speeds just like you would on a blender without programs.
Don’t place too much weight on noise. “How much louder is this one than that one?” A few models are among the least loud*. The loudest are very loud. The rest fall somewhere in the middle and are pretty darn loud. Within these three tiers, there’s some variance but not enough to matter or report upon. Find a level of noise output you’re comfortable with and move on. We use protective headphones for hard-ingredient, tamper-dependent blends (nut butter, ice cream, etc) even with the least-loud model.
Don’t overbuy accessories. “I feel like I need a Food Processor Attachment and the Dry Grains Container?” You’re going to be the happiest and most successful with the least amount of stuff. Bundles may be tempting, but you can often get a better deal by buying less and waiting for a deal on accessories and attachments. Cash is king and minimalism is queen.
Don’t read into the power. “Does a 2.2 HP Vitamix blend better?” Horsepower listed on Vitamix blenders may vary. And that may be due to differences in build design affecting output. But a machine with 2.2HP blends equally well as one with 2.0HP.
Don’t discount Certified Reconditioned. “Are there any downsides? Are they used?” Branded Certified Reconditioned, refurbished Vitamix blenders are a savvy buy. Nearly everything in the box is new and what isn’t is like new. All Vitamix employees get a “recon Vitamix” as a job perk which says something. And the warranties included are shorter, but provide the same coverage as new. If you’re considering but still aren’t sure, we have an in-depth review and video tour of the Certified Reconditioned Vitamix products.
Don’t equate price with performance. “How well does it blend compared to the others?” Here’s the deal with full-size Vitamix blenders: The most entry-level Vitamix makes the same quality textures as the most premium. So the more you pay, the more features you get. Blend quality, however, stays the same.
Don’t get stuck on sunk costs. Would you buy your current situation today if given the choice? For example, you found a special price on a Vitamix model you simply can’t get excited about. Or, you plan to use your current blender until it dies no matter how long that takes.
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Related guide: Comparing Vitamix models
Related short video: We’re gonna use it ’til it dies.
Related long video: Vitamix Blender Buying: 10 Mistakes to Avoid!