💰USA Special: CR 7500 
You’re trying figure out which Vitamix to buy. You either want the best or one of the best deals. Or, maybe you want something in between. Let’s end the paralysis by analysis today. All of our quick picks are full-size models. Meaning, they’re all are easy to clean and can make the full range of Vitamix recipes (smoothies, juices, hot soup, nut butters, ice creams, flours, doughs). Whichever one you get, consider adding an Under Blade Scraper (review) to your cart before you checkout. They’re a no-brainer price and are delightfully helpful. 👍
💰Heads up!
Heads up 1) USA only: Get $160 off CR 7500 (Recon Next Gen) right now! So $279 for a rock-solid Classic. All the other deals
Heads up 2) Be sure to notify us of your purchase to get our ebook and VIP support!
Heads up 3) Personalized picks available here.
The best Vitamix for new owners
Smart System: These are Ascent Series. Many benefits to getting one of these.
Classic: Unsurpassed performance meets beloved ergonomics. Still great after all these years.
- 5200 – Best for Most
- Pro 750 – Best You Can Get
- E310 – Best on a Budget (and for those who live alone)
Reconditioned: Zero downside here. Full Vitamix quality at the best price.
- Recon A3500 – $479.95
- Recon Standard – $329.95
- Recon Standard Programs – $379.95
3 Key Questions for Vitamix Buyers in January 2020
1. Do you know which container type you want? If you haven’t already done the research, that’s great. It matters less than many people think. And, we teach on a low-profile 64-ounce container anyway. For a full primer on Vitamix Containers, read here.
2. Have you considered the Certified Reconditioned options? They’re great and what we gift to friends and family. Learn more here.
3. What’s your budget? Whatever it is, consider waiting until you see your pick on our Vitamix deals page.
10 Most Commonly Asked Vitamix Questions
Jump down to read about:
- Why LINY?
- Smart System?
- Classic?
- Space Saving?
- Programs?
- Reconditioned?
- Wide Container?
- Touchscreen?
- Costco Models?
- Upgrade from Classic?
Bonus FAQ: How do they all compare? Use our comparison tool to toggle features and quickly see results.
The Best Vitamix for Most People Right Now
Free 48-oz container (discount in-cart)
HOLIDAY SPECIAL: The A3300 in Brushed Stainless Metal Finish is a premium Vitamix model and is one of the quietest by far. Add a 48-ounce container to your shopping cart and you’ll see a $144 credit. I can’t say highly enough how great of a deal this is.
If you like the look of touch-versions of the Start / Stop and Pulse buttons, the A3300 is a great pick. It has a programmable countdown timer providing the desirable walk-away blending experience.
💰 *link and price include a $144 discount in-cart and free shipping credit at checkout!
The A3300 is also a great pick for most new Vitamix owners. It’s actually a savvy pick if you prefer the look and control style over the equally priced A2500. With the A3300, you get a variable speed dial that’s less like a steering wheel (mechanical) and more like a stereo system’s volume knob (electronic). And, the On / Off and Pulse buttons are controlled by touch. Unlike the A2500, it does not have programmed settings. But it does have a programmable timer that you can use to get the walk-away blending effect. (Think how you’d set a microwave oven by setting it to 30 seconds and hitting start.) It comes in a couple premium color options and is overall a great pick for new Vitamix owners in 2020.
The Best Vitamix for New Owners
The A2500 features Ascent Series benefits (clear snap lid, dishwasher safe container, Bluetooth capabilities, and a 10-year warranty) with a configuration that’s enough for most new owners to get the most out of their investment.
💰 *link and price include a $20 instant discount and free shipping credit at checkout!
This is the second year in a row that an Ascent Series (our full review) has been our pick for best Vitamix for new owners. Considering the decade-long full warranty and features included, we generally recommend this Ascent to new owners. So why this one, the A2500? The A2500 is all most people need to get the best overall Vitamix owning experience. Walk-away blending, what you get from the A2500’s three programmed settings is nice for multitasking. It also helps keep your machine running better for longer (because you’re more likely to run a cleaning cycle after each use). With four color options, there’s a good fit for every kitchen counter.
The Latest and Greatest Vitamix
All the bells and whistles, plus everything that comes with the new Ascent Series models. The best Vitamix money can buy today.
*💰 link and price include a $20 instant discount and free shipping credit at checkout!
The Ascent A3500 is the clear upgrade pick for new owners and Legacy owners alike. This machine has the look and feel of something really special. We’ve used it daily since the beginning of 2017 and love it. Like the A3300, it has a 1-10 dial, Touch On / Off, Touch Pulse and programmable timer. Plus, the A3500 has five programmed settings which is a nice benefit over the A3300 (which has none). To be clear, the upgrade to five programs (from three on the A2500 and zero on the A3300 and A2300) is not enough to justify the A3500’s premium price. But here’s what is: The True Metal Finishes. For one, all three (Brushed Stainless, Graphite Metal, Black Stainless) are a big step up from a design standpoint. But also, and this is important, the True Metal Finishes on the A3500 provide enhanced noise dampening, making the A3500, by far, the least loud Vitamix. Also good for families: The A3500, with resetting variable speed dial, Touch On / Off, and secondary power switch make the A3500 the most safety-equipped model you can get.
The Ultimate Vitamix Setup
The Ascent A3500 + 48-oz wet container
The most features, the most premium look with the most flexibility without anything unnecessary.
†You need to manually add the secondary 48-oz container to your shopping cart.
*💰 link and price include a $20 instant Ascent discount, and free shipping credit at checkout!
The Ascent A3500 with your choice of true metal finish is the best Vitamix money can buy. But if you add a secondary 48-oz wet container, it’s the best, most complete package. Do you need the secondary container? Certainly not. The full size 64-ounce container is able to make anything you’d want. The benefit of also having the narrow, secondary container is flexibility. With it, you can make smaller batches of frozen desserts and nut butters. Plus, it provides some flexibility for households like ours that blend multiple times daily.
Note: There is no 32-ounce container that is compatible with the Ascent Series; only a 48-oz.
The Best Vitamix if You Want Classic
If you want a Classic Vitamix, the Vitamix Pro 750 is also great. It’s a wonderful pick you can proudly put on your counter for many, many years.
💰 *link includes free shipping credit at checkout!
The Vitamix Pro 750 is the best choice for those without interest in the Smart System blenders. The Pro 750 in Brushed Stainless was our Vitamix for several years. With five programmed settings and the low-profile container, it makes for a great Vitamix owning experience. We upgraded from a Pro 750 to an Ascent A3500 to play with the Bluetooth, smartphone capabilities, and accessory capabilities. Related: Our YouTube playlist of us with the Pro 750.
Also great classic
If you want a Classic Vitamix, don’t need pre-programmed settings, want the tall narrow container, the Vitamix 5200 is also great. The simplest and still one of the best.
💰 *link includes free shipping credit at checkout!
The Vitamix 5200 is a great pick for people primarily looking to upgrade their smoothie game. Like all Vitamix machines, this model can do it all.
The Ultimate Vitamix Setup (Classic)
If you want the most versatile, classic Vitamix setup, consider the Vitamix Pro 750 with a secondary 32-ounce container. is also great. It’s a wonderful pick you can proudly put on your counter for many, many years.
†You need to manually add the secondary 32-oz container to your shopping cart.
💰 *link includes free shipping credit at checkout!
The Vitamix Pro 750 + a secondary 32 -ounce container is the ultimate Vitamix setup for those without interest in the Smart System blenders. Easily make big batches with the main 64-oz container. And have the flexibility to use the 32-oz to make small batches of thick blends (nut butters, hummus, ice cream, etc.). You also have the option to get a 48-oz container (instead of the 32). When this was our setup, we preferred the 32.
Best Budget Picks: E310 vs Reconditioned Standard vs Reconditioned 5300
In summary, when choosing between these three, you need to decide what’s important to you.
- Fits under cabinets with container on? Get a low profile: E310 (narrow) or Reconditioned 5300 (wide)
- Ability to make smaller batches of thick blends (nut butters, hummus, ice cream, etc)? Get a narrow-bodied container: E310 (48-oz) or Reconditioned Standard (64-oz)
- Large batch capacity? Get a full-size, 64-oz container: Reconditioned Standard (narrow) or Reconditioned 5300 (wide).
Want it all? You’ll want to consider getting a secondary container (see bel0w).
A Great Vitamix for Those on a Budget
If you’re looking for a brand new, yet classically designed, no-frills Vitamix, the E310 is a great pick. It’s powerful, can do all the things, and like all Vitamix machines, is built to last. A great machine with Vitamix quality at entry-level pricing.
💰 *link includes free shipping credit at checkout!
The E310 is one of our budget picks budget pick. For those wanting a Vitamix, but not needing advanced features, the new offering in the Explorian Series is great. It comes with a narrow-bodied, 48-ounce container which is countertop-friendly, but also nice for making smaller batches of thick blends (like nut butters, ice cream, and hummus). The 2.0 HP motor is plenty powerful to get high-quality blends you expect from a Vitamix. From smoothies, to juices to hot soups to nut butters, this machine can do it all. And, it’s built to last as it’s backed by a 5-year full warranty. If you’re familiar with Legacy machines, this is quite similar to the 5200 (the machine that put Vitamix on the map).
Who the E310 might be for: The benefits here are low profile and narrow body. So it will likely fit under your cabinets. And, it if you’re shopping for a Vitamix with the intention of making thick blends (like nut butters, ice cream, and hummus) and don’t want to make large batches, this may be a good pick for you.
Secondary container paring: Classic 64-ounce container
Another Great Budget Pick
If you’re looking for a full-size, full-capacity, classic Vitamix, the Certified Reconditioned Standard (aka the Reconditioned 5200) is a great pick. This is the machine that put Vitamix on the map.
💰 *link includes free shipping credit at checkout!
The Reconditioned Standard Vitamix remains a really special Vitamix model. It’s got the full-size, 64-ounce container with a narrow body. You cannot go wrong with this model. If it’s the one that you choose to live on your counter, you should be proud. This is officially a Vitamix that’s gone through a 17-point inspection and is like new. But since I’m not an employee of Vitamix, I can say this: I suspect that what comes in this box may sometimes actually be new.
Who the Reconditioned Standard might be for: The benefits here are full-size container and narrow body. So this will get you larger batches (if you like to make a couple days worth of green juice like we do). And, it will get you the ability to make more reasonable sizes of thick blends (when compared to minimum batch of thick blends required by the wide 64-ounce container.
Secondary container paring: 32-ounce container
Another Great Budget Pick
If you’re looking for a full-size, full-capacity, that’s under-the-cabinet friendly, check out the Reconditioned 5300. For the right home, this could be a great fit.
💰 *link includes free shipping credit at checkout!
The Reconditioned 5300 comes with a full-size, low-profile, 64-ounce container. It has a secondary on / off switch and a built-in pulse button.
Who the Certified Reconditioned 5300 might be for: The benefits here are full-size container and low-profile container. So this will get you larger batches (if you like to make a couple days worth of green juice like we do). And, it will get you a machine that should fit under your cabinets with the container on the base. The larger minimum batch size with the wide container does not apply to most recipes (smoothies, juices, etc.). And this container size and shape is the most ideal for food prep applications. For a family is getting their first Vitamix with the primary intention to have better smoothies and juices this is a good pick.
Secondary container paring: 32-ounce container
Bonus Budget Pick (limited quantity offer)
Reconditioned Standard Programs
If you’re looking for a full-size, full-capacity, classic Vitamix, the Certified Reconditioned Standard Programs (aka the Reconditioned Pro 500) is a great pick. This is just like the 5200 but with three programmed settings.
💰 *link includes free shipping credit at checkout!
The Reconditioned Standard Vitamix remains a really special Vitamix model. It’s got the full-size, 64-ounce container with a narrow body. You cannot go wrong with this model. If it’s the one that you choose to live on your counter, you should be proud. This is officially a Vitamix that’s gone through a 17-point inspection and is like new. But since I’m not an employee of Vitamix, I can say this: I suspect that what comes in this box may sometimes actually be new.
Who the Reconditioned Standard might be for: The benefits here are full-size container and narrow body. So this will get you larger batches (if you like to make a couple days worth of green juice like we do). And, it will get you the ability to make more reasonable sizes of thick blends (when compared to minimum batch of thick blends required by the wide 64-ounce container.
Secondary container paring: 32-ounce container
Why you should trust us
I left my consulting job and CPA license in 2012 to start this site, Life is NOYOKE, and make wellness my work. Shalva left her corporate training career and Masters in Psychology to join me full time just before our wedding. Today, thousands of people trust us to help them buy, gift and use their Vitamix. Why? It’s just us and this is all we do. We have nearly all the models and use one or another several times daily. We are exclusive to Vitamix. And as such, we have a close, trusting relationship with a lot of the Vitamix team from C-Suite to the Customer Service Center. Not sure if there’s another way to say it: We are passionate about this product, and the work we do with it is our livelihood. Read more: Why LINY.
Who this is for
This guide on which Vitamix to buy may be for you if:
- You’re trying to find the “best Vitamix.”
- You’re thinking about getting a Vitamix but want to be sure you don’t make the wrong decision.
- You just bought (or were gifted) a Vitamix and want to be sure it’s a good one.
Ultimately, if you’re reading this, you’re probably in the right place.
Now, before we get into high-level discussions about all the models, here’s a quick reminder of how we support our readers and how our readers support us.
Smart System vs Classic vs Space Saving
Vitamix offerings fall into three easy-to-understand groupings.
Smart System
These Vitamix machines have the latest technology, some new features, and are designed to be a fully integrated kitchen solution.
Why get a Smart System Vitamix? You want a machine that can work hand-in-hand with the Smart Scale and App. Or one that’s the most versatile with task-specific accessories. Or, perhaps you want a machine with the longest warranty (and thus, dollar-for-dollar amortized over the life, the best value). Smart System Vitamix machines are an excellent choice for new Vitamix owners.
Recommended Smart System Vitamix Models: Choose between the A2500, A3300, and the one we use daily, the A3500.
You can click here to jump down to more detail about these picks
Classic
These are the Vitamix models that, while are more than just blenders, are “just a Vitamix.”
Why get a Classic Vitamix? No frills Vitamix Quality. You don’t care about the Bluetooth. You don’t care about the 10-year warranty. You just want the machine that smoothie shops and chefs use to make silky smoothie smoothies: The Vitamix. You cannot go wrong with a Classic Vitamix, even if it is Certified Reconditioned.
Recommended Classic Vitamix Models: Choose between an E310, a Reconditioned Standard, and a Reconditioned 5300, which are narrow and low-profile, narrow and full-sized, and full-sized and low-profile, respectively. And no, there’s no downside to Reconditioned.
You can click here to jump down to compare these 3 budget picks.
Space Saving
UPDATE: Space Saving Vitamix have been discontinued. They recently sold through the remaining stock on the S-series (Space Saving), and do not plan to restock them.
This is the category of non-full-size machines. They’re commonly known as the S-Series machines.
Why get a Spacing Vitamix? You’re ready to step up to better blends. You don’t have the space for a full-size machine to live on your counter. You’re tired of replacing your cheap blender. These machines can do everything better than a $100 blender but not as well as the full-size Vitamix models.
Recommended Space Saving Vitamix Models: While we generally recommend full-size machines, those looking for a Spacing Vitamix should choose between the one featuring three programs, the S50 and the entry-level version without programs, the S30 (sometimes available refurbished for less).
Do I really need pre-programmed settings?
Dozens of Vitamix buyers send me questions every day. Nearly all of them want to know if they should get a Vitamix with programs.
Well, here’s what I tell everyone:
There are a few things to keep in mind about pre-programmed settings on Vitamix machines.
1) You do not need them.
My first Vitamix machine did not have them. I was still able to manually use the variable speeds to make everything. In fact, it was probably better for learning how to “drive” my Vitamix. It’s kind of like a manual transmission car. I learned how to drive a stick shift when I was young. That was a great experience and probably made me a better driver. Some people, like several blender blogger friends of mine, actually prefer to blend without pre-programmed settings (even if their machine is equipped).
2) They do not get you “automatic blending.”
The pre-programmed settings are simply timers set to run your blender at various speeds for a set amount of time. There are no sensors or artificial intelligence making on-the-fly adjustments to the blend time and speed. For some recipes, though, you can safely press Start and walk away. Green smoothies, hot soups, and cleaning, for example. In these instances, pre-programmed settings enable multitasking quite nicely. But other recipes like frozen dessert and nut butters, using the pre-programmed settings is merely a guide. You still need to be there to use the tamper and listen for the Vitamix to “tell you” when it’s done (or not). So back to the car analogy, pre-programmed settings are like automatic transmission. It definitely makes operation easier. But, the machine still needs you to drive it most of the time.
3) They ARE really nice to have.
As alluded to above, having a Vitamix with pre-programmed settings is quite nice. Admittedly, I was skeptical of its value when I first upgraded to a Vitamix Pro 750. I thought that, as an expert, I’d never use ’em. But eventually, I fell in love with the pre-programmed settings. When I make green smoothies, my cashew queso, or run a cleaning cycle, I always use a pre-programmed setting. Set it up, press start, and walk away. Although not a strength of mine, the programs really help me multitask (and be more productive). The analogy here, although it’s standard on most cars these days, is Bluetooth connectivity. Can you live without Bluetooth in your car? Absolutely. But if you have it, you love it and would miss it if suddenly it was gone.
So should you get a Vitamix with pre-programmed settings?
It’s really up to you.
Just know that like a car, either way you choose, it’s gonna help you get to where you wanna go. And in the case of your Vitamix, that means super smooth smoothies, frozen desserts, nut butters, hot soups, etc. Because with or without pre-programmed settings, your Vitamix can do all that. The difference is how much effort you will have to put in and whether or not you can multitask along the way.
One note: There is one sneaky benefit of having a Vitamix with pre-programmed settings: added safety. Because of how they’re configured, Vitamix machines with pre-programmed settings have a secondary On / Off switch. This is nice for families with small children or mischievous pets.
Related: Here’s a vintage video of me demonstrating the cleaning cycle.
Should I get a Certified Reconditioned Vitamix?
If you’re looking to save some money, Certified Reconditioned Vitamix machines are fabulous. They all go through an extensive inspection and are practically like new. Here are all the available reconditioned models. If you’d like a recommendation, I love the 5200 for $329.95. Same machine with programs, the Pro 500 for $379.95 is also great.
Should I avoid the wide container?
The wide Vitamix container. It’s also known as the low-profile 64-oz container.
Have you read something about it?
Well, here are three things you should know about the wide Vitamix container:
1. It’s great for small smoothies.
You need to be mindful of loading order and the liquid-to-solid ratio when making smoothies in the wide Vitamix container. But that’s true with any container!
Recently while testing a Green Blender smoothie ingredient delivery box, we made a 12-ounce smoothie in the wide container that came with our A3500. And it blended quickly and easily without any need for intervention with a tamper!
Most importantly, the blend quality was identical to that from a narrow container.
2. It’s not ideal for small, thick blends.
You can absolutely make thick blends like hummus, nut butters, or ice cream in a wide container.
But because of its shape, you need to make pretty large batches to make sure there’s enough to cover the blade and reach the tamper.
This, however, is not a reason to avoid the wide container. Instead, it is a reason to consider a secondary, narrow container when the need arises.
3. It’s can be better than the narrow one (for some tasks).
The Vitamix can replace a food processor for all tasks besides shredding. And when you do use your Vitamix to chop, it’s a bit easier to get ingredients out of the wide container.
For example, we love making detox salad on Sundays. After switching from a narrow-bodied Vitamix container to a wide-bodied one, we saved about 30% of the time required to prep the salad.
Furthermore, the wide container is more likely to fit under your cabinets than the wide one. Hence “low-profile” being in its full name.
Moral of the story regarding the wide container that comes on may Vitamix models: Pick the machine that you want to live on your countertop. Container shape and size shouldn’t be much of a concern.
Related: Here’s a video me making almond butter in a wide container.
Should I avoid touchscreen?
Touchscreen controls on Vitamix machines (the Legacy 780 and Ascent A3300 and A3500) are a matter of personal preference. Aside from being sexy-looking, they’re nice because they’re:
- Easy to use.
- Easy to clean.
- Well-made (so no need to worry about breakdown or malfunction).
If you want to see them up close and personal, here are 10 video demos with the 780 and here’s an in-depth video from Vitamix headquarters with the A3500.
Switches and a dial (like used on the 5200, Pro 500, 7500, Pro 750, A2300, A2500, and all S-Series) are the alternative. Any reason to opt for one of those instead of touchscreen?
Here’s one reason to pick a Vitamix without touchscreen: You’re a Legacy owner looking to upgrade.
If you’re accustomed to using a Pulse button, I’d go with a traditional model with switches. That’s what we missed when playing with a touchscreen model. If your current machine doesn’t have a Pulse button, it’s probably not something you’ll miss. In that case, go for the touchscreen. We really did love the A3500.
Bottom line on touchscreen Vitamix options: Really, you cannot go wrong either way.
Related reading: Why Certified Reconditioned Vitamix Machines are a Hero (when available)
How the Costco models compare
So you’re looking at the Vitamix machines sold at Costco. Nice.
Two categories of models you’ll find at Costco.
1) Frankenstein models: 5300, 6500, and Venturist 1200
Here’s what you need to know about the 5300 and the 6500: They’re loud.
Like really, really loud.
Why?
G-Series’ shell is the primary reason it’s quieter than a C-Series. As such, a G-Series motor encased by a C-Series shell (a 5300 or 6500), will not only not look like a G-Series, but it will not sound like a G-Series; it will be MUCH louder.
So basically, these two models are G-Series motors held in C-Series shells.
As for the Venturist 1200: This is basically an Ascent without preset programming in a G-Series shell. There’s a lot of value in the package they put together. Quite frankly, we cannot compete with these packages (see below).
So if you don’t mind the “Frankenstein” nature of these models, go ahead. The more people with Vitamix machines in their home the better we’ve done our job.
2) Costco-style packages
Costco sells Vitamix packages that get you some extra value. A 5200 package which includes a dry grains container, for example.
Generally, I do not recommend these.
Why?
Sure, you’re paying an extra $50 to get another container worth $125. And that feels like getting $75 free.
But you’re still paying extra for an extra thing. And that extra thing will likely go unused.
Unused extra things lead to post-purchase disappointment. (Translation: you not meeting your goals.)
And since I’m all about you getting the most out of your purchase, I recommend baby steps, first. Get a 5200 – Getting Started package. And if you ever feel like you need a dry grains container, you can get one during the holidays when they’re typically heavily discounted. (You can read more about the secondary container situation here.)
Upgrade from Classic?
Are you the owner of a legacy machine? It’s probably not necessary to upgrade. Why?
Legacy containers are not compatible with Ascent machines. And, you can now get the 20-oz Personal Cup Adapter (here’s our review)!
Why are we excited about this? The number one concern we hear about full-size Vitamix machines are the minimum batch size. With this, small batches of dressings, nut butters, etc. are easy.
So unless you have zero secondary containers for your Legacy machine and do not need 8-ounce container compatibility, stick with your Legacy Machine. The Ascent Series is going to be around for a long time.
Comparison Tool
Want to compare Vitamix models side-by-side?
Great!
Use the Vitamix model picker tool below to narrow your selection. Feel free to sort, toggle, and adjust the settings to narrow down the list of models.
When you’re ready, select two to compare. Then, press the “Compare Selected Blenders” button to see them side-by-side.
Note 1: You’ll need to manually add secondary containers to your cart.
Note 2: You can read my in-depth review of Certified Reconditioned models (“recons”) right here.
Note 3: Our links go to the Vitamix website and are eligible for Free Shipping and unlock any discounts available.
Compare Vitamix Models
All the Vitamix models in a nutshell
Overwhelmed by all the Vitamix models?
Totally normal.
But believe it or not, Vitamix only has twelve different models.
Four series, with and without programs, with and without touchscreen.
(All images are to scale. So, the E310 and A3300 are the same height, while the Pro 500 is about 4 inches taller than the Pro 750, for example.)
Here’s the seven listed out with their alternate versions. You can click any of the variations to see that the difference is basically functionality and price.
- S30; an S-Series.
- S55; an S-Series with programs. Variation: S50
- 5200; a C-Series. 5200. Variations: Turbo Blend VS; CIA Professional Series; Professional Series 200; 5200 Super – Healthy Lifestyle; 5200 Deluxe – Complete Kitchen; Creations GC; Creations II; 1709; 1363; 1364; 1365; Total Nutrition Center (Canada); Aspire (Canada)
- Pro 500; a C-Series with programs.Variation: 6300
- 7500; a G-Series. Variation: Pro 300; Creations Elite;
- Pro 750; a G-Series with programs.
- 780; G-Series with programs and touchscreen.
- A2300; Ascent Series with dial
- A2500; Ascent Series with dial and programs
- A3300; Ascent Series with dial and touchscreen
- A3500; Ascent Series with dial and touchscreen and programs
- E310; Explorian series with dial
(Note: We’ve omitted the two-speed machines. They’re still great machines and can be a great fit for the right household. It’s just that they’re the only model without a 1-10 variable speed dial.)
So why so many different names and prices?
Vitamix creates special names and packages (different cookbooks, containers, and accessories) for their retail partners.
For example, the CIA Creations is just a 5200 with a different name. This helps QVC feel special (and sell more units). Same goes for Target, William and Sonoma, an all the other places where you can buy a Vitamix. Read more »»
Note 1: There’s now a model comparison tool on Vitamix.com that’s worth a look.
Note 2: There’s now a Vitamix model builder tool on Vitamix.com that’s pretty great.
Note 3: There’s now a best sellers list on Vitamix.com that’s basically just a curated list of C-Series and G-Series models.
2020 Vitamix models overview
Here’s how the Vitamix models were grouped in the past.
Explorian Series?
Explorian Series blenders are the no-frills, just-a-Vitamix Vitamix. Buyers on a budget have been asking for a model like this. Simple style with uncompromised performance. In the past, we’d tell our peers to get a reconditioned unit if they wanted to stay under $400. Today, we recommend the Explorian Series which are brand new and come with a 5-year full warranty. Related reading: In-depth review: Explorian E310
Ascent Vitamix?
Ascent Series were new in 2017. They have Smart Detect containers (8-ounce cup and 20-ounce cup compatibility!), Bluetooth technology, and are dishwasher safe. Plus, they come with a 10-year full warranty. Why get an Ascent? In 98% of cases, you should. Related reading: Our Ascent Series Review
Legacy Vitamix?
Legacy Vitamix machines come in a million different variations. Many of them are great. None are dishwasher safe. New models come with a 7-year warranty. Why would anyone get one of these in 2020? If you find an amazing deal. Perhaps you inherited some Legacy, secondary containers, like a 32-ounce, that is not compatible with Ascent machines.
Personal Vitamix?
Personal Vitamix are far better than a Nutribullet. But, they’re far inferior to a full-size Vitamix. They’re dishwasher safe and come with a 5-year warranty. Why would anyone get one of these? If you’re only making small drinks for one. Urban, solo dwellers and the Road Warrior (who already has a full-sized Vitamix at home) are two good use cases. Related reading: My S-Series (Personal Blenders) Review
Should I Get an Ascent (instead of Legacy)?
On the fence between getting an Ascent or a Legacy Vitamix? I think it’s a no-brainer.
Compared to Legacy Vitamix, all Ascent Series machines have:
- Sleek new design.
- 10-year, full warranty.
- 8-ounce cup, blend-and-go capability (!)
- 20-ounce cup, blend-and-go capability (!)
- Wireless connectivity (a technology that doesn’t do much now, but may be nice down the road as fitness and nutrition tracking apps become integrated.)
New owners: Go for the Ascent (our full review). Especially if you were considering getting a G-Series for its quieter run volume, sleek design, more efficient blends, consider getting into the Ascent Series. With the Ascent, you get all the good things from a G-Series plus so much more for about the same price.
TurboBlend Two Speed Deluxe (and 3-Speed)
The TurboBlend Two Speed is nearly identical to a 5200. The difference is instead of 1-10 variable speed dial, there are Simple High / Low controls.
Yes, the 1-10 variable speed dial is nice have. But 95% of our readers find they don’t miss the variable speeds, and the TurboBlend’s simple configuration is sufficient for their needs.
Here’s what you ought to know about the Vitamix TurboBlend Two Speed.
- It can make everything.
- It’s so simple to use (fool proof).
- The Turb Blend Two Speed Deluxe is a package that comes with a free dry grains container.
Households that keep a gluten-free diet love the TruboBlend Two Speed Deluxe package. A machine that’s great for smoothies with a secondary container that’s purpose-built for grinding gluten-free flours.
Here’s what you ought to know about the Vitamix TurboBlend 3-Speed: Similar to the Two Speed, but it has a 3rd gear, medium, and a pulse button.
For the money, the Two Speed Deluxe is a better buy because you get the free secondary container for the same price.
Moving on, let’s hand out some awards.
Superlatives: And the award goes to…
In attempt to answer everyone’s “Which one is best for?” questions, here’s some superlatives.
Best Vitamix for smoothies
Okay, all Vitamix machines make smoothies very well.
But when I hear this, it typically means smoothies are the number one reason you’re getting a Vitamix. It also means you probably already have a blender (or had one). Since it’s the easiest and most cost-effective way to start or continue a smoothie regimen, I recommend the 5200 – Getting Started, also available in reconditioned.
Best Vitamix for the early adopter
No question, the latest and greatest Vitamix, which features flat panel controls, is the pick. It’s the A3500 and its look and performance is great. Read more »»
Quietest Vitamix
The A3500 is by far the quietest Vitamix you can buy. They’re quieter than the rest of the Ascent Series models.
Curious about noise levels for other Vitamix machines? Take a look our Vitamix noise comparison.
Best Vitamix for Baby Boomers
Some might think that an S-Series, personal Vitamix is best for baby boomers. They’re small, light, and less of a beast, so to speak. But since S-Series blades are not fixed to the container, it may be a struggle unscrewing the blade assembly. Plus, taking off the rubber seal off to clean it takes a fair amount of dexterity. Thus, a reconditioned Pro 500 is our pick for Baby Boomers. It’s easy to use, reasonably priced, and able to make small enough batches for smaller appetites. We’ve ordered one of these for each of our grandmothers.
Vitamix Alternatives
You will find several Vitamix imitators. But, as most people find, there’s no comparison.
Here are a few comparisons showing Vitamix heads-up with the competition.
- Nutribullet: A video demonstration of the Vitamix S30 vs Nutribullet.
- Ninja: A long-form article and video of the Vitamix 5200 vs Ninja Professional.
- Blendtec: A matter-of-fact take on Vitamix vs Blendtec.
And if you like to listen to podcasts, here are a few you’ll appreciate.
Listen:
🇺🇸Learn True Health Podcast. “Delicious, Fast, Affordable, and Healthy Recipes for a Whole Food-Focused Diet with Lenny Gale and Ashley James” also available on (iTunes)
🇨🇦Make your Body Work Podcast “How do I eat Veggies That I Don’t Like?” also available on (iTunes)
🇬🇧 The Revive Yourself Podcast “How Great Life is When You Don’t Eat Rubbish” also available on (iTunes)
Watch:
If you’re still on the fence
So you know, I couldn’t decide which Vitamix to buy either. I knew I wanted one, but couldn’t pull the trigger. It was paralysis by analysis.
My only regret?
I wish I hadn’t waited so long.
If you still have questions after reading this, feel free to email or set up a sales call with us.