Two new shorts today: 
Vitamix sells refurbished blenders direct from their website branded as Certified Reconditioned. Affectionately known as “Recons”, they’re like-new. So they’re one of the best ways to get a sweet deal on a Vitamix. Side-by-side, you cannot notice the difference between these refurbished Vitamix models and a new one. They look and perform the same. And, every Certified Reconditioned Vitamix comes with the same coverage as new ones (just with fewer years; usually five instead of seven or ten): full-service and free shipping both ways. Of course, refurbished Vitamix blenders are not for everyone. But Vitamix Insiders like and trust them quite a bit — Vitamix employees earn them after a few months of service and we, Shalva and I, who do this for a living, gift them to friends and family. See below for all the details.
If you haven’t already, you should read through our which Vitamix to buy guide that compares models.
And, once your cart is full, please come back to our site and click our referral link “LifeIsNoYoke Sent Me!” That’ll tell Vitamix we sent you and make sure you’re getting the best price, free shipping, and qualify you for a free copy of our ebook. (Just notify us of your order to get it.)
This guide’s table of contents organizes everything you ought to know about refurbished Vitamix blenders. And of course, quick picks are below.
The best Certified Reconditioned (Refurbished) Vitamix for new owners
Ascent (non-Legacy): These are also known as Smart System. Recommended for most people given they have more features and greater compatibility with containers and attachments (FPA & 8-oz cup) than Legacy models.
- Recon V1200Recon V1200 – Best for most people ($100-off with code 100RECONV)
- Recon A3500Recon A3500 – Best when on sale*
- Recon A2500Recon A2500 – Also great when on sale*
*💰The new A3500 with Brushed Stainless FinishA3500 with Brushed Stainless FinishA3500i and new A2500A2500A2500i usually make more sense to buy new given the price difference and additional 5 years of warranty.
Legacy (non-Ascent): Unsurpassed performance meets beloved ergonomics. Still great after all these years.
- Recon 7500Recon 7500 – Best for most people
- Recon Pro 750Recon Pro 750 – Best you can get, especially when on sale
- Recon Standard with ProgramsRecon Standard with Programs – Best with a narrow container
Note: It takes most people 3-6 weeks to fully appreciate the Vitamix machine, figure out which model is right for them, and then finally “take the plunge.”
The best way to get there is by signing up for our email series. We’ll share insights from Vitamix owners and keep you updated about upcoming deals. (Keep me updated!)
All recommended refurbished Vitamix blenders
Best non-Legacy Vitamix on a budget
Originally a Costco exclusive, the Recon V1200 has Ascent Series features on a Legacy body. In addition to the 64-ounce container, it comes with a free 20-oz kit. It's a tough deal to pass up when you use code 100RECONV for $100 off in-cart.
How to get this price: Follow a link from this site *and then* enter code 100RECONV !
Best non-Legacy Vitamix on a budget
Originally a Costco exclusive, the Recon V1200 has Ascent Series features on a Legacy body. In addition to the 64-ounce container, it comes with a free 20-oz kit. It's a tough deal to pass up when you use code 100RECONV for $100 off in-cart.
How to get this price: Follow a link from this site *and then* enter code 100RECONV !
The best Smart System Vitamix for those on a budget.
Originally a Costco exclusive, the Recon V1200 has Ascent Series features on a Legacy body. In addition to the 64-ounce container, it comes with a free 20-oz kit. It's a tough deal to pass up when you use code 100RECONV for $100 off in-cart.
How to get this price: Follow a link from this site *and then* enter code 100RECONV !
Best Vitamix you can get, at a great price
The Ascent Series (compatible with FPA & 8-oz) Recon A3500 is the only Vitamix with five preset programs and a programmable timer. That and its infinite-scroll variable speed dial and least-loud (quietest) motor give it the best user experience of any Vitamix.
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Best Vitamix you can get, at a great price
The Ascent Series (compatible with FPA & 8-oz) Recon A3500 is the only Vitamix with five preset programs and a programmable timer. That and its infinite-scroll variable speed dial and least-loud (quietest) motor give it the best user experience of any Vitamix.
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Best Vitamix you can get, at a great price
The Ascent Series (compatible with FPA & 8-oz) Recon A3500 is the only Vitamix with five preset programs and a programmable timer. That and its infinite-scroll variable speed dial and least-loud (quietest) motor give it the best user experience of any Vitamix.
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Best Smart System Vitamix for most people, at a great price
The Ascent Series A2500 has a familiar variable speed dial and two switches. And, with its three preset programs and Ascent Series features (compatible with FPA & 8-oz), it's everything you need for a great Vitamix-owning experience.
How to get this price: Follow a link from this site *and then* enter code 100RECONA2500 !
The best Smart System Vitamix for most people, at a great price
The Ascent Series A2500 has a familiar variable speed dial and two switches. And, with its three preset programs and Ascent Series features (compatible with FPA & 8-oz), it's everything you need for a great Vitamix-owning experience.
How to get this price: Follow a link from this site *and then* enter code 100RECONA2500 !
Best Smart System Vitamix for most people, at a great price
The Ascent Series A2500 has a familiar variable speed dial and two switches. And, with its three preset programs and Ascent Series features (compatible with FPA & 8-oz), it's everything you need for a great Vitamix-owning experience.
How to get this price: Follow a link from this site *and then* enter code 100RECONA2500 !
Best Legacy Vitamix for most people
The Recon 7500 is a no-frills classic that'll fit under your cabinets and handle the range of Vitamix tasks well. If you don't need pre-programmed settings, this is awesome machine after all these years.
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Best Legacy Vitamix for most people
The Recon 7500 is a no-frills classic that'll fit under your cabinets and handle the range of Vitamix tasks well. If you don't need pre-programmed settings, this is awesome machine after all these years.
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Best Legacy Vitamix for most people
The Recon 7500 is a no-frills classic that'll fit under your cabinets and handle the range of Vitamix tasks well. If you don't need pre-programmed settings, this is awesome machine after all these years.
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The best Legacy at the best price
The Recon Pro 750 is the best refurbished Vitamix you can get if you don't want an Ascent. It has five programs, low-profile design, and remains one of the least loud (quietest) Vitamix models you can get.
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The best Legacy at the best price
The Recon Pro 750 is the best refurbished Vitamix you can get if you don't want an Ascent. It has five programs, low-profile design, and remains one of the least loud (quietest) Vitamix models you can get.
Our Links
The best Legacy at the best price
The Recon Pro 750 is the best refurbished Vitamix you can get if you don't want an Ascent. It has five programs, low-profile design, and remains one of the least loud (quietest) Vitamix models you can get.
Our Links
Best Legacy Vitamix on a budget
Variable speed controls plus programs and the tall, narrow-bodied container make it ideal for a smoothie lover. And from a loudness perspective, it falls nicely in the middle; not too loud at all.
Best Legacy Vitamix on a budget
Variable speed controls plus programs and the tall, narrow-bodied container make it ideal for a smoothie lover. And from a loudness perspective, it falls nicely in the middle; not too loud at all.
Best Legacy Vitamix on a budget
Variable speed controls plus programs and the tall, narrow-bodied container make it ideal for a smoothie lover. And from a loudness perspective, it falls nicely in the middle; not too loud at all.
Table of contents
Recon A3500 worth it?
The Recon A3500 is usually not worth it because of its 5-year warranty compared to a new one’s 10-year. Amortize the price over warranty life and the math doesn’t make sense. But every once in a while, the Recon A3500 goes on sale making the savings absolutely worth the shorter warranty. Sales like these are pretty rare, so generally not worth waiting for. Instead, go with a new A3500 in any color or get the Recon V1200 pack (usually around $400 with code 100RECONV).
The warranty
Most Certified Refurbished (Reconditioned) Vitamix models come with a 5-year warranty. This warranty is identical to the ones included with new models, but for the duration. If anything needs repair, Vitamix will send you a shipping label, have it picked up, repaired or replaced as needed, and send it back to you all for free. (Fun fact: The Vitamix repair team is four people; enough to service the astonishingly small percentage, around 2%, of the five million Vitamix blenders in households that ever need service.)
Extended warranty worth it?
You can purchase an extended warranty on your refurbished Vitamix. But, you shouldn’t, and here’s why: You can add an extended warranty onto your Vitamix at any time before the original warranty expires. So you can call Vitamix Customer Service in four years and 364 days to add the extended warranty. So save your money now and skip the extended warranty. 👍
Setting expectations
You’ll read a lot about the 17-point inspection process. But here’s what to actually expect when you get a refurbished blender directly from Vitamix.
Look and feel
A refurbished Vitamix purchased direct from the manufacturer should look and feel like new. Each one comes with a:
- New container
- New lid
- New lid plug
- New tamper
- New cookbook package
If the (not sharp, by design!) blade assembly isn’t new, it’s high-temperature dish washed before being fixed to the new container. The rest is quarantined, sanitized, buffed, tested, and inspected to make sure it’s like-new.
What’s the packaging like?
Refurbished Vitamix purchased direct from the manufacturer come in a simple cardboard box. There’s also a card inside that congratulates you on the purchase of your Certified Reconditioned blender. But beyond that, you’d think it was new. It’ll be shiny and wonderful and difficult to tell it’s not new.
On gifting them
You can absolutely gift these. But you should set expectations with whomever you’re gifting it to. So send them this video: You’re getting a refurbished Vitamix.
Or, you can copy paste the following:
Message to a loved one about a Certified Reconditioned Vitamix they’re going to get
Hey LOVED ONE, I’m sending you a Vitamix because I love mine and want you to have one. But I need you to know that I’m sending you a Certified Reconditioned model. Not because I love you any less or think you’re not worthy of having nice things. It’s just that I learned these refurbished models are sort of an insider’s secret. Like everyone that works there gets one and even the Vitamix guy on YouTube buys them for friends and family. Anyway, hope you enjoy. Happy to show you how we use ours. Much love, YOUR NAME.
All other options
Here’s what you need to know about the other refurbished Vitamix options.
Certified Reconditioned Vitamix we don’t recommend (and why)
- Reconditioned Explorian — too loud, though it’s not bothersome for some people. If you do get it, we recommend ear muffs*.
- Certified Reconditioned Standard — this is a reconditioned 5200, a great pick. But for the extra few dollars, the Certified Reconditioned Standard Programs* is worth the upgrade because programs are nice to have.
- Certified Reconditioned 5300 — a fine model especially when on sale. The Recon 7500 has the same features and performance with a more streamlined look.
Renewed from Amazon
Amazon sells renewed Vitamix models. These are different from the Certified Reconditioned refurbished models sold from Vitamix. The renewed Vitamix blenders from Amazon go through *their* repackaging process and are only covered for one year. This is very different from the 17-point inspection process that happens inside Vitamix headquarters*. The original manufacturer’s warranty may still apply, but it’s hard to say. Basically, feel free to take a chance on these. But I can’t, in good faith, recommend it.
Ebay, Craigslist, Marketplace
You may be able to find a Vitamix for very cheap on Ebay or Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace. But you’ll want to get the serial number and call Vitamix Customer Service to check on the remaining duration of the warranty. The sellers here are not vetted and you’re buying at your own risk.
And watch out for extraordinarily low-priced listings. Someone recently brought one to my attention and we discovered it was a scam site. Vitamix Legal has since sent a cease and desist to them.
Returns
Every refurbished Vitamix bought directly from their website comes with free 30-day returns. (Actually, last I spoke to management, they’re still accepting returns within 60 days since extending it for COVID.) They want you to love your Vitamix and if you don’t for whatever reason, you can always return or exchange, no questions asked.
Conclusion and recommendation
If you’re looking to get a great deal on a Vitamix, getting a refurbished one that’s Certified Reconditioned is a great decision. Is there anything I missed? If so, please leave a comment or send an email — we’re here to help.
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I have an old Vita-Mix 4000 model (stainless steel unit and container) that I purchased in 1991. My brother and sister-in-law, who lived in Canada since 1986, had one and introduced me to them. I’m wondering if my motor can be refurbished, since it doesn’t get things as smooth anymore. Also wondering if it could be made quieter, so I don’t need to wear earplugs. It’s a great machine.
Hi is there any reconditioned Vitamix that I can used in France? If yes would like to be purchase one. Thank you.
Wondering about the teflon issue, with teflon pieces in the carafe, has this been solved? Would the reconditioned ones have solved this issue?? I guess it would be the container and blade assembly that has the issue
I bought a Certified Reconditioned Pro 750 last Black Friday. Even though I already had two Vitamixes, I couldn’t pass on the stunning deal that Vitamix offered. Yes, it was just like new. The motor even stunk for the first several uses. I have not retire my two other Vitamixes, but the 750 is now my go-to daily blender. Still can’t believe the price.
Interested in reconditioned A3500i but none of your links work.
Hello
Im new to Vitamix. I just need a bigger size than nutribullet to make smoothies, butter nuts, soup and cold desserts for family of 4. Also i plan to use a lot this as a food processor. Which reconditioned model would you recommend that has a great price and great deal right now. S
Hi Rhoda,
First place to start is our Vitamix model comparison page. It has up-to-date picks and links.
For your family’s needs, I think you should take a look at the Reconditioned 5300. It’s great at smoothies, nut butters, soups, and frozen desserts. Plus, the wide container is great for food processor tasks. And, with our links, you will get a great deal right now.
One note that I need to incorporate into the body of this post: The Certified Reconditioned Vitamix machines no longer come in boxes branded as such. They come in a simple brown, cardboard box.
You would never know it was certified reconditioned.
Great news for anyone considering gifting one of these babies. 🙂
Do u have the 6300 .why on line it is read on the best.is it quieter.because I was told to get the 6300 with pulse and manual setting.i have the control instead of presetting.i have a nutribullet.i have a fixed income.your sale man to buy the 500 professional….I am a little confused.i don’t want a personal because it is a waste of money.plz help me.i heard the best model is 6300.thanks.
I’d grab a Certified Reconditioned Standard Programs. They’re an incredible price right now.
What is the colour and edition of the vitamix you used in the video? So far on the vitamix website the best I’ve found is the reconditioned standard programs, is it the same one? thanks! 🙂
We’re using a Brushed Stainless Pro 750.
I am getting a Vitamix for my son for Christmas – I clicked on your website by chance – you just saved me $200 with your brief on reconditioned versus new! Thank you and have a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
Love it. We have lots of resources to help him use it in good health; send him our way.
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you, too!
Hi,
There was a question about european voltage earlier and i’m intersted if there is any changes about that, can i get one i eu voltage now? And, if not, is it safe to use it with adapter? Also, do you ship to europe?
Thank you,
Aleksandra
Hi Aledsandra,
These machines do not work with Eurpoean voltage. Using an adapter can make the warranty null in void.
Here’s an article about Vitamix warranties.
Hi
I’m a little confused with what it states on vitamix with reconditioned blender.
It states : Certified Reconditioned Standard
Label may reflect the following C-Series machines: 5200, CIA™ Professional Series®, Creations® II, Creations® GC, Professional Series® 200, Total Nutrition Center®, or TurboBlend® VS
If I want to order a 5200 is that what I would be getting? And I’m wanting to be able to make smoothies and possibly purée meats would the 5200 be the best option for me?
Hi Jay,
Good question. A reconditioned 5200, on the Vitamix site, is called “Certified Reconditioned Standard”. Since the 5200 is marketed and sold in different outlets under different names, the label on the face of the 5200 itself may vary. But, they’re all good ol’ 5200’s. And they all are fabulous at making smoothies (and if you’d like, pureeing meats).
This answer your question?
Hello,
Is it possible to get a Certified Reconditioned model in 230V (Europe voltage)?
Thanks,
Alessandro
Working with my Vitamix people to make this happen. In the meantime, you can find international availability here.
Hi Lenny
I know there were some reconditioned products with discounts on Black Friday in the past. I wonder if all those deals applied to Canadians as well? Also, I make smoothies just for myself , do you think I should go with the 7500 or 5200? Thanks !
Hi Brian,
You cannot go wrong with a 5200 (new or reconditioned). Really can’t.
If you see yourself being bugged by the height (not fitting under cabinets), get a 7500. It’s fine for one and there’s room to grow into it. 🙂
If you’re still stuck on which to get, check the full article and forum on which to buy.
Which Vitamix to Buy
I can not find a reconditioned G-series 750 pro. Do they only sell the Reconditioned 7500?
Hi Monica,
They’re available so rarely (because hardly anyone ever sends ’em back). One day there’s a few available, next day, there are none.
Here’s a link to use and check periodically. https://lifeisnoyoke.com/out/vitamix/certified-reconditioned-next-generation-programs/
When did Vitamix first start selling these type blenders? The consumer grade/commercial grade duality wasn’t such a division back when before products became “value engineered.” Back then there was still the duality but the stark quality issues were not as brazen. The rise of discard appliances has the spector of marginal performers or passable performers that cannot be serviced and must be discarded upon certain usage “decision points.” It’s amazing that Vitamix has “turned the tide” at the consumer level for quality beyond price.
They’ve been selling household products since the early 1990’s, I think. Agree on turning the tide.
Why Vitamix doesn’t sell reconditioned blenders to Canada, via the canadian website? I would love to have one of the Next Generation blenders…for less $!! Do you think they ever will? It would be easier to have a friend who lives in the States but I don’t ;(
GREAT website! Thanks
Hi Maude,
I’ve been asking about this for a while. I think there’s regulatory reasons why they don’t make them available in Canada. If they could, they would. 🙂
Did you ever get one?
Haven’t got one yet…
For now, here in Canada we have the 7500 in black, red or white available at costco.ca, for 599.99$, new on the website since dec 2014. But when the reps are doing the demos (in Quebec), they’re showing off the Professional series 500, don’t remember the price though.
There is also the Professional 750 in Brush Stainless for 729.99$ at cucinamoderna.ca. You can also get the combo, either the 32oz dry or 48oz wet container for 50$ more!
With the exchange rates and the free shipping, my guess is that its probably better to get the new models from either one of the canadian websites (costco.ca or cucinamoderna.ca)!
They have the reconditioned 5200 on Canadian website,though.
True story. As of today, they have the Classic Series available in reconditioned.
Canada Reconditioned.
Lenny,
I’m debating between the Pro 300 on sale at Williams Sonoma for $529 verses the Certified Reconditioned Next Generation for $439. So from what I’ve read the new machine would have a 7 year warranty verses 5 on the reconditioned. I’d like to save the $90, but not sure that’s enough savings as you mention some models have greater savings (hundreds….)??
I did read in your explanation of the Pro 300 verses the 7500 that they are the same except the face plate on the black and the cookbook is different. I am hoping for Red so I don’t think the face plate matters, BUT you wrote the Create Cookbook is not as healthy and I read somewhere that the Simply Fresh Cookbook has some Vegan/Vegetarian Recipes. I LOVE recipes and cookbooks and I eat and cook as healthy as I can for myself and my family. Also my 16 year old is in a vegetarian stage and we’ve all joined her (most of the time) and are enjoying it! (Hubby and 14 year old son- they are awesome!)
I come from a family of butchers and dairy farmers so I will probably keep moderation with those products down the road unless health or more science has me change my mind! I’m loving our vegetarian cooking and bonding with a teen is always good!
So, what do you think?
Since the Reconditioned model has a cookbook better suited for us and saves us $90 should we go for it??
Thanks so much for your time and great website!
Hi Kim,
If the cookbook is a better fit for you and your family, I’d snatch up the savings and get a Certified Reconditioned.
Let me know how it goes. 🙂
Lenny
PS. The S30’s are now available in reconditioned. https://lifeisnoyoke.com/out/vitamix/certified-reconditioned-s30/