Vitamix Ascent Series Review

Everything you Ought to Know About the Vitamix Ascent Platform (A2300, A2500, A3300, A3500)

Notes

Unboxing

Here’s a preview of me unboxing an A3500. The full unboxing and up-close video should be posted soon. (Stay tuned!)

Want to see the Ascent in action? We had the pleasure of visiting Vitamix headquarters and got to see it live. Check it out.

Demonstration

Contents summary

What’s New with the Vitamix Ascent Series

So what’s all the fuss about? Well, the Vitamix Ascent Series is more than an internationally market tested name for a high-performance blender.

It’s a platform.

The Vitamix Ascent is a product upon which Vitamix corporation plans to build.

It’s a Vitamix with full-size capability. Every machine comes with a 64-ounce container with SELF DETECT technology.

But it’s also a machine than can handle blend-and-go containers. That’s right, with an add-on kit, you can use your full-sized Ascent with a 20-ounce blending cup to make smoothies, shakes and dressings. Or, you can use an 8-ounce blending bowl to make small smoothie bowls, baby food, spice grinds, and more.

So as I said above, this machine combines the power and performance of a G-Series with the flexibility and convenience of an S-Series.

I’ll say it. The Ascent Series is a total game-changer.

And the changes are all based on feedback from people like you and me. Vitamix lovers.

Let’s get into a bit more detail about what’s new with the Vitamix Ascent.

Redesigned 64-ounce container

Three cool new features with the Ascent’s 64-ounce container.

1) Improved pouring

There’s a small bulge in the front of the container that makes thick blends pour much smoother. No more smoothie and shake avalanches that were common in the original low-profile, 64-ounce containers.

2) Clear, locking lid

People enjoyed the clear lids in some of the vintage Vitamix machines. These clear lids are nice for seeing the blend as it’s going. And the “click” helps you be sure the lid is secured tightly. No more accidental green smoothie explosions.

3) Lid plug with measurements

A minor, but nice feature that’s back by request. Assuming you’re not using a Perfect Blend, you’ll need to measure ingredients occasionally. The ounce and half ounce  (30 ml or 15 ml) make this easy.

New 20-ounce and 8-ounce container capability

The Vitamix Ascent allows you to blend with compatible 20-ounce cups or 8-ounce bowls. This is in response to overwhelming feedback about challenges with small batches.

Want to make a small batch of salad dressing? With the Ascent, this is easy.

Want to make fresh, small portions of baby food? With the Ascent, this is possible.

All other features and enhancements aside. The 20-ounce and 8-ounce containers are why you’re going to want an Ascent Series Vitamix.

Smart containers

All containers that are compatible with the Ascent Series machines “talk” with the motor base. The “Smart Detect” technology is still pretty basic, but here’s why it matters.

Safety

Ascent Series Vitamix machines will only run when an Ascent container is on its base. Bump the container off and the motor stops immediately. Nice for homes with small children, pets, and less-than-careful occupants.

Container-type recognition

Ascent machines recognize what type of container is on its base. Place a 20-ounce or an 8-ounce container and you’ll only see programs that are configured (and safe!) for that container. The result is more precise blends and user error prevention.

Digital timer

All Ascent Series models have a digital timer on their face. The timer’s functionality gets more advanced as you move up the line.

These digital timers are new to Vitamix models and is actually pretty exciting.

Why?

You’re going to get a lot more visibility into your blends. And it should help you get more consistent results with the recipes you make most often.

Here’s how each of the Ascent timers work.

A2300: Timer counts up when variable speed is selected.

A2500: Timer does two things:

1. Counts up when Variable speed is selected.
2. Counts down when a pre-programmed setting is selected.

A3300: Timer does two things:

1. Counts up when Variable speed is selected.
2. Counts down when Variable Speed and time is selected. (Think of this like how you use a microwave oven.)

A3500: Timer does three things.

1. Counts up when Variable speed is selected.
2. Counts down when Variable Speed and time is selected (microwave again).
3. Counts down when a pre-programmed setting is selected.

The A3300’s presents itself as a neat option. Despite not having pre-programmed settings, you still get “walk-away blending” without paying a premium for pre-programmed settings.

Quieter in open spaces

Vitamix has not done any scientific testing on the Ascent’s sound output. And neither have we.

But in our limited experience so far, the Ascent seemed quieter than its G-Series predecessor while running in an open kitchen.

Dishwasher safe containers

All containers in the Ascent Series (even the 64-ounce) are dishwasher safe.

Thinking about the 20-ounce and 8-ounce containers, this makes sense. Similar 20-ounce containers on the S-Series are dishwasher safe (and basically dishwasher required).

But why is the Ascent’s 64-ounce container is suddenly dishwasher safe? Not sure. Seeking confirmation, but my guess is that the blade assembly’s seal has been reconfigured due to the Smart Detect technology. Either way, this is nice for the occasional deep cleaning.

Note: You will get the most out of your Ascent if you use the traditional method of cleaning your Vitamix most of the time. Warm water, soap, run.

New sleek design

Are they futuristic? Are they retro?

I’m not a design guy, but I know the new design took me a minute to get used to.

But now, I really appreciate the update.

Most relevant to you, though, these machines are designed to be aesthetically pleasing from every angle. So for people with open kitchens, the sides and back are just as impressive as the front.

10-year warranty

All Vitamix Ascent models come with a 10-year full warranty. This covers free shipping both ways if anything should happen during the warranty period.

Why the jump from 7-year warranties to 10-year?

These machines have always lasted decades. Why not promise to service them for a full one?

Picking the right color (metal finish) for your Ascent

Color is a bit tricky to write about.

But if you insist…

There are two types of colors available on Ascent Series Vitamix. Regular and true metal.

Regular: Standard, colored, composite shell. Examples:

• White
• Black
• Red
• Slate
• Pearl Gray (Slate with a bit of sparkle)
• Black Diamond (Black with a bit of sparkle)
• (all) White (as seen above on the A3500).

True Metal: Hardened, colored, uniquely textured metal shell. Currently only available on the A3500. Examples (all three pictured above):

• Brushed Stainless
• Graphite Metal
• Black Stainless

Here’s which color comes on each:

A2300: Black, Red, Slate, White
A2500: Black, Red, Slate, White
A3300: Black Diamond, Pearl Gray
A3500: Brushed Stainless, Graphite Metal, Black Stainless Metal, Copper Metal, (all) White

Want more detail on the True Metal Finishes?

If you insist…

The Brushed Stainless (bottom right in photo above) looks closest to stainless steel appliances. Silver, if you will. From a design perspective, it’s probably the most versatile. But from a maintenance perspective, it’s gonna catch the most smudges.

The Graphite Metal (top middle in photo above) looks matte black. It has a nearly smudge-proof finish. And it’s probably the most masculine of the bunch.

The Black Stainless Metal (bottom left in photo above) is curiously named. It’s not black (far less than the Graphite Metal). And it’s not a traditional stainless (it’s closer to gold, or gun metal). Its texture is unique, with more defined brush marks than the other two.

Okay, now that you’ve read about the Ascent’s color and metal finishes, you know which one you want, right?

Still unsure? Here are three quick videos showing them all up close and compared to each other.

First, Graphite Metal (with Brushed Stainless).

Second, Black Stainless Metal (with Graphite Metal and Brushed Stainless).

And finally, White (with the three metal finishes).

Okay, let’s move on to containers. 🙂

Answers about Ascent Series containers (and compatibility)

“Can I use my old Vitamix containers on an Ascent?”

As discussed above, the Vitamix Ascent is only compatible with containers that have the Smart Detect technology. As such, containers from old Vitamix machines, an old 64 or 32 oz, for example, will not work with Ascent.

In other words, Ascent machines are unable to blend with any non-Ascent (legacy) containers.

“Can legacy Vitamix models (G-Series or C-Series) operate an Ascent add-on 20-ounce or 8-ounce container?”

Ascent Series blade cups (8-ounce and 20-ounce) do not fit on legacy machines. This is a safety feature (requirement), as only Ascent Series machines are designed to prevent open blades.

“What do you mean by open blades?”

The 8-ounce cup’s removable blade is quite close to the user. With Smart Detect technology, heavily-weighted blade assembly base, and strong magnets, this add-on becomes safe for household use.

Why only 4.5 stars?

There are two simple reasons we “rated” the Vitamix Ascent Series 4.5 out of 5.

Self Detect Technology

The Self Detect Technology certainly adds some safety. And it adds some user-error prevention; potentially better blends.

But owners upgrading to Ascent will have to completely replace their old containers. Not a huge deal, since all new Ascent machines come with a 64-ounce Self Detect container. But for anyone who had an S-Series or invested in a secondary 32 ounce container, the new technology rendering those containers worthless may be frustrating.

Limited testing time yet

We received our Ascent 3500 just a few days before it was available online. We plan to make it our everyday blender and update the ranking as we see fit. (And just like the 780 review, we plan to publish several recipe videos so that you have more than the five Ascent demos we got to see at headquarters.

Who should upgrade?

If you’re a power-user already, you are probably going to want to upgrade. And rightfully so.

The Ascent Series solves a lot of the challenges that you may have had with using your Vitamix to its fullest. Small batches, very small batches, blend-and-go capabilities. Also, if you have ever felt limited by only having one large container, upgrading to any of these Ascent Series models is worth it.

Related: Here’s what you can do with your used Vitamix.

In our house, we are upgrading because using our Vitamix is our job. In my sisters’ houses, they’ll be upgrading because they’re the head of household, like on-the-go smoothies and shakes, and make baby food.

If you’ve had a Vitamix for a while, and are satisfied with your green smoothie, protein shake, and occasional hot soup or frozen dessert regimen, you should not feel obligated to upgrade. The Ascent Series is going to be around for a while and will only get better.

If you just bought, you may want to upgrade, especially if you got it within the last 30 days. Vitamix has a 30-day upgrade, downgrade, and return policy and would be happy to get you an Ascent in exchange.

Why (why not) Vitamix

If you’re reading this page, you probably already know you want a Vitamix. But in case there’s any doubt, here’s an abbreviated explanation for why Vitamix.

Vitamix has been in business since 1921. They engineer and assemble their machines just outside of Cleveland, Ohio, USA. They’re a 4th generation family business started by the Barnard family. Today, they’re run by the humble, kind, and wise, award-winning President and CEO Jodi Berg, great granddaughter of founder, “Papa” Barnard.

Chefs around the world use Vitamix machines in their kitchens. More than a drink maker, they use the Vitamix as a finishing tool to make velvety purees, soups and dressings.

But it’s not just back of the house…

The last smoothie, shake or other blended drink you purchased and was so delicious? Its greatness was not because of secret ingredients. It was because of the machine and was probably made in a Vitamix. These machine are in Starbucks, Jamba Juice, and dozens more. Aside from making the best drinks, quick-serve restaurants know that…

Vitamix machines are built to last. The Ascent Series comes with a 10-year full warranty. Call up one of the Vitamix Customer Service reps and they’ll joyfully take care of you as needed. But the long-term warranty is generally just the beginning. There are so many stories of people passing their Vitamix down through the generations.

Why are these Vitamix machines so durable? The hammer mill blades are dull from the outset. It’s the performance engineering of the motor, blade container, etc. that keep the blends consistent over the long haul. (Sharp blades found on Ninja and others are not only dangerous, but mean performances declines quickly.) And as this demonstrator nicely put it, “You’ll cry once buying a Vitamix. You’ll cry dozens of times when you have to keep replacing a shiny blender.”

And finally, more than any other kitchen appliance, Vitamix owners are passionate about their product (and company). These machines are part of divorce settlements and roommate disputes. They travel across the country with people. You can’t know it until you know. But the feelings people get when a Vitamix becomes part of they lifestyle is priceless.

Conclusion

The Vitamix Ascent Series, by design and functionality, really is the future of Vitamix. I can’t wait to see where our family goes with it.

You can find the best deals (plus free shipping) on the Vitamix Ascent via our links to vitamix.com.

Shop Ascent Now!