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The best Vitamix for new owners
With years of daily blends using nearly every model, hundreds of reader emails, and dozens of conversations with Vitamix Customer Service, here’s what I’m telling friends about which Vitamix to buy: The Ascent A3300 is the best Vitamix for new owners. From smoothies to soups to nut butters to flours, nothing out performs it. It comes with a 10-year full warranty, Smart Detect technology, touchscreen and dial control (both!), and just the right amount of automation for new Vitamix owners.
Last Updated: August 4, 2017
5 Vitamix FYIs
1) USA friends: Exclusive deal alert on the Pro 750. You can get one of these for $399.95 (black or red; +$30 for Brushed Stainless). They’re branded as Certified Reconditioned, but I’m 99% sure they’re brand new, untouched, mint machines. My guess is that the only reason they are not priced at $599.95 is because they sat in a William & Sonoma warehouse and were returned to Vitamix HQ to make room for Ascent. Get one while you can. Based on my experience (and confirmation from our Vitamix people), these fly off the shelves whenever they become available.
2) Canada friends: Now (while supplies last), you can save C$80 on the Certified Reconditioned 5300. (Total steal!)
3) The Vitamix Ascent Series (our full rundown) is now available in the U.S. and Canada. Each comes with a 10-year warranty and is eligible for easy payment plans, and when you enter our Promo Code at checkout (06-007938), you’ll get our exclusive, instant $20 discount (right next to the credit for free shipping!).
4) Finally! The 8-ounce (review and demo video!) and 20-ounce containers for Ascent are available for purchase.
5) Now through forever: (Starter Kit 1) Get a New Vitamix Owner Starter Kit with the purchase of any Vitamix through Life is NOYOKE. It’s a quick-start recipe cheatsheet, ebook, $20 coupon to LINY “U”, and Lifetime Priority Support as a thank you gift for buying through us. Read More »»
Notes
1) This is a really long post. Use the table of contents below to jump to sections. If you’d rather listen and watch me talk this through with you, here’s a video version we just published: Video: Which Vitamix to Buy in 2017
2) Canada readers. We made a special Vitamix Canada page for you.
3) International readers. Use the Vitamix’s International Machine Locator.
4) All readers. Email us with questions or pick a time for a sales call with us.
Summary of Picks
Best Vitamix for new owners: A3300
.com: $519.95 | .ca: C$719.95
Another great Vitamix for new owners: A2500
.com: $519.95 | .ca: C$719.95
The best Vitamix for single servings (and travel): S50
.com: $399.95 | .ca: C$489.95
Latest and greatest: A3500
.com: $619.95 | .ca: C$819.95
The Best Vitamix for New Owners
The A3300 has all the Ascent benefits (10-year warranty, Smart Detect technology, bluetooth) with a value-packed configuration that’s conducive to success for new owners.
This is the first time I’ve found an Ascent Series (our full review) to be the top pick for new Vitamix owners. Dollar for dollar, it makes the most sense giving you the most features for the money. This model does not have pre-programmed settings. But this is actually a good thing for new owners. Why? Over-reliance on pre-programmed settings early on can lead to confusion and disappointment for people new to Vitamix ownership. Still, owners of the A3300 can use the programmable timer to get a “walk-away blending” effect similar to machines with the premium, pre-programmed settings. The result of mostly-manual controls (in this case, variable speed dial plus a programmable timer) is generally the overall best user experience for new Vitamix owners.
Another great Vitamix pick for new owners
The Ascent A2500
Ascent technology, three pre-programmed settings, and classic switches make this Vitamix also a great pick for new owners.
The best Vitamix for single servings (and travel)
The Personal Series S50
Easy smoothies for one, blend-and-go, walk-away blending, and a no-frills feature set make the S50 the best personal-sized Vitamix pick.
The latest and greatest Vitamix
The Ascent A3500
All the bells and whistles, plus everything that comes with the new Ascent Series models. The best Vitamix money can buy today.
Life is NOYOKE is our vegan Vitamix recipes, basically. When you use links from our site to vitamix.com or vitamix.ca and enter our promotion code 06-007938, we get credit for purchases and earn a small commission. That helps support our mission of accelerating worldwide adoption of a plant-based diet and is greatly appreciated. Thank you. — Shalva and Lenny Gale
Not sure about the best place to buy? Check out:
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Table of contents
Why you should trust me
I left my CPA consulting job in 2012 to start this site, Life is NOYOKE. Today, thousands of people trust me to help them buy, gift and use their Vitamix. Why? I spend 99% of my working hours thinking about, writing about, and using Vitamix blenders. I have (nearly) all the models and use one or another several times daily. You can think of me as a cross between a demonstrator you’d see at Whole Foods, a tester from The Wirecutter, a Vitamix call center employee, and a passionate health and wellness advocate. One that has a close, trusting relationship with a lot of the Vitamix team from C-Suite down to the Customer Service Center. Not sure if there’s another way to say it: I’m passionate about this product and the work I do with it is my livelihood.
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.
So, let’s move on to the important stuff.
2017 Vitamix models overview
Here are the big choices for people shopping Vitamix in 2017.
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. Grandma 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
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 2017? If you find an amazing deal. Perhaps you inherited some Legacy, secondary containers, like a 32-ounce, that is not compatible with Ascent machines.
Ascent Vitamix?
Ascent Series are new for 2017. They have Smart Detect containers (8-ounce cup and 20-ounce cup compatibility!), wireless technology, and are dishwasher safe. Plus, they come with a 10-year warranty. Why get an Ascent? In 98% of cases, you should. Related reading: Our Ascent Series Review
All the Vitamix models in a nutshell
Overwhelmed by all the Vitamix models?
Totally normal.
But believe it or not, Vitamix only has eleven different models.
Three series, with and without pre-programmed settings, with and without touchscreen.
(To clarify the graphic drawing above: C-Series machines ARE full power. G-Series, at 2.2 hp, are fuller power by tiny bit.)
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 preset programming. 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 preset programming.Variation: 6300
- 7500; a G-Series. Variation: Pro 300; Creations Elite;
- Pro 750; a G-Series with preset programming.
- 780; G-Series with preset programming and touchscreen.
- A2300; Ascent Series
- A2500; Ascent Series with preset programming
- A3300; Ascent Series with touchscreen controls
- A3500; Ascent Series with touchscreen controls and preset programming
(Note: I’ve omitted the two-speed machines. A Vitamix without Variable speed control is like a Ferrari with just 1st and 6th gear.)
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 »»
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 the 32-ounce container to your cart.
Note 2: You can read my in-depth review of Certified Reconditioned models (“recons”) right here.
Note 3: Links go to the US Vitamix website and are eligible for Free Shipping and a free starter kit with my affiliate code 06-007938.
Compare Vitamix Models
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.
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 (Mr. Vitamix, apparently), 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 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 break-down 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)
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.
Upgrade from Legacy?
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.
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 $299.95. Same machine with programs, the Pro 500 for $379.95 $269.95 is also great.
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 and 6500
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.
If you don’t mind the “Frankenstein” nature of these models, go ahead. The more people with Vitamix machines in their home the better I’ve done my 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.)
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 Ascent Series Vitamix machines are quieter than any Legacy Vitamix model before it.
Best Vitamix for Grandma
Some might think that an S-Series, personal Vitamix is best for the elderly. They’re small, light, and less of a beast, so to speak. But since S-Series blades are not fixed to the container, Grandma may struggle with unscrewing the blade assembly. Plus, her not-so-nimble fingers might struggle to get the rubber seal off to clean it. Thus, a reconditioned Pro 500 is my pick for Grandma. It’s easy to use, reasonably priced, and able to make small enough batches for her grandma-sized appetite. I just ordered one for my grandma. Read more »»*
The competition
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 he 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.
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 setup a sales call with us.
***
Want to see and hear the Vitamix (and us) in action? Here are 100+ minutes of us doing Vitamix demonstrations in HD video.
Hi Lenny, I am looking to get my first Vitamix and was interested in the Ascent Series, A2500. However, I’ve read about how the wide container isn’t good for single servings, and that I’d have to make more than I’d actually need. Could you suggest any alternatives, or what you think about that? Thanks!
Hi Rachel,
The wide 64 ounce container can be tricky for small, single servings. Frozen desserts, especially. I wrote a bit about this in our containers post. To get around this, we’ll make a large batch and save the rest for later. If it’s frozen desserts, we’ll pre-portion and freeze. So when you want one, pop it out, put it on the counter for five minutes, and enjoy.
In our Vitamix setup, we have a secondary, 32-ounce container for small batches of frozen dessert, dressings, etc. Right now, those are not available for Ascent Series machines. Soon, though.
But if you’re mostly thinking single servings of smoothies, juices, etc, you could go wiht the A2500 and get the new 20-ounce kit to go with it.
Not a simple answer — maybe it’d be easier over the phone? You can call Vitamix and talk to one of their people (1-800-848-2649) or, if you’d like, set up a call to talk with me. 🙂
Dear Mr Lenny,
Please help me, i have emailed to Vitamix company but no reply. I’m from Vietnam, I plan to open a smoothie shop, so I’m wondering what model of Vitamix should I buy. I personally am leaning toward Vitamix Professional Series 750 Blender but I do not know if it can grinded ice and frozen fruits well. I am in Vietnam and how can I buy it with the best price and warranty policy?
Looking forward for your help and support! Thank you!
Hi Nguyen, Your best bet is to call customer service. 1-800-848-2649. You can tell them I sent you and have our promotion code 06-007938. Thanks and good luck! 🙂
Thank you very much and have a nice day!
Hi Lenny
I have just bought the vitamix ascent 2300 but so far in making frozen deserts and nut butters I have had to remove it like 3 times to make sure everything is blended. I have been using whole strawberries and frozen bananas for the frozen deserts. Do you think the whole strawberries could be the issue for why it is not blending it properly? Should I cut them up and freeze next time? I watch videos of people making perfect nicecream on the first try but mine turns out chunky and I have to push it down a couple times and rerun it. Do you think the cause for that is because I don’t have enough ingredients in the blender? I tend to only make smaller batches, ex( 1 cup of almond milk, 1 cup of greens, and 2/3 cups of frozen fruit) so I guess I could put more in and just freeze it? Do you think I should stick with the Ascent series and just wait until they release different size containers or convert to the 5200 with the narrower container? It would seem like the narrower container would be better suited for blending it up better for smaller batches. The reason I bought the Ascent 2300 was because of the 10 year warranty, but if it wasn’t for the warranty I’m not sure I would’ve purchased this one because its known for making bigger batches. I know this is a loaded post sorry but your feedback would be much appreciated. I enjoy reading and watching your articles and videos. They are very thorough and informative.
Thanks Lenny
Hi Brett,
Stick with your A2300. It’s a great machine. Like all of the models, it takes a bit of practice the feel of it.
There is a minimum batch quantity with any Vitamix you’ll want to use when making frozen desserts. It’s 1 cup liquid with 1 lb of frozen for narrow, 64 ounce containers (being phased out); and 1.5 cups liquid with 1.5 lbs of frozen for wide, 64 ounce containers (like the one you have).
I know it seems like a lot. But we like to make a big batch, eat some, and then pre-portion and freeze whatever is left. Take out the pre-portioned frozen servings, place it on the counter for 5 minutes, and it’s ready.
Here’s a video from Vitamix HQ talking about Vitamix frozen desserts walking through all this.
If you’re still having trouble, send me an email. We want to make sure you love your Vitamix. 🙂
Thanks,
Lenny
Hi Lenny,
Your website is very rich on Vitamix. As such, I have decided to go for the Ascent A3300. Unfortunately, I am from a West African country where Vitamix is not available/sold for home use.
Furthermore, given, the issue with power outlet/voltage compatibility, I thought the best bet would be to order from the UK, but it seem the Ascent series is not available in the UK at the moment.
Please what should I do? I really like to take advantage of the mothers’ day discount offer.
Thanks for the great job you are doing.
Hi Petal,
Thanks for the kind words.
You’re probably best checking Vitamix’s International Availability Page.
I’m not 100% sure on power specs by region. But I do know that each machine is configured to its intended customer’s voltage.
You can also call Customer Service to confirm power or locate an A3300 (if you cannot find one). 1.800.848.2649
Of course, this is a complicated answer without a lot of information. I wish I could just send you an A3300 myself.
Dear Lenny,
Thank you for your very swift response.
As suggested, I checked the International Availability Page and found out that the dealer in my country only deals with Vitamix commercial blenders. I also called the Vitamix customer service number twice, but I was kept on hold both times – may be today is a very busy day.
Nice joke @ “I wish I could just send you an A3300 myself”.
I am so heart broken that I cannot buy a blender that I desperately want. But my fingers are crossed and I’ll see what happens in future.
Thank you Lenny, I hope Vitamix appreciates your work.
They do enough to put me on the CEO’s schedule! 🙂
Related: An interview with Jodi Berg, the Vitamix CEO.
Hi Lenny,
Thanks for detailed information Vitamix machines. I just bought 6500 from Costco for ($425 with 48 Oz Wet blade container for Free with unit). I am not sure if it is a good deal or not. I will make smoothies and batter for just 2 people so I was more interested in smaller size container. I also looked up A3500 and saw they haven’t released the small size container of 32 or 48 Oz. Do you think will there be any difference between both machine performance wise at least? How about the noise level comparison in both unit? Do you think small batches (mostly 1 serving) will perfectly blend (smoothie, juice, puree, hummus, salsa or chopping of veggies) in 64 Oz container of A3500? The only thing I am worried is after putting $549 (as per Vitamix website for A3500) and adding small container of $139.00 is it worth of the price to get new technology? or you suggest Pro Heritage 750 model over A3500? Thanks in advance!
I’d love to try to convince you to get a Vitamix through us, but it sounds like you got a solid deal on a machine that serves your needs.
Thanks Lenny. I just bought it yesterday and haven’t opened yet. So thinking if A3500 or Pro heritage 750 is good technology and better performance over 6500 then I think I should return it. Does it make significant difference in noise level? Or do you think this deal is good ? 🙂
If you want the newest (best) technology and best performance (quietest) plus a 10-year warranty, I’d grab an Ascent. It’s the model / line off which they’re going to be building for a long time.
Hello, Your site is full of great information. I am a total newbie and planning to mae a purchase in the next couple weeks. At first glance i was leaning towards the 5200, but based on the comments and research I am torn that I should be looking at G series or the Ascent. I am really most interested in smoothies, soups, cleaning and preset programs seem very cool too. Any thoughts? Also, are you aware of any deals that I should wait for? Thank you
Go Ascent. Buy now — Mother’s Day sale. 🙂
Hey Lenny! Thanks for the article. I love your frankness. I have to admit I’m stuck in analysis paralysis! My husband and I have definitely decided we want to get a vitamix, but I just cannot decide where to get one from or which model. I’m torn between the 5200 and 5300 that I could purchase from Costco. You said the 5300 is loud, but is it louder than the 5200, or just the G-Series? Also, I saw a new 5200 on Amazon sold by Amazon, but would they still have the same warranty? I’m also kicking around the idea of the certified reconditioned + 3 more years on the warranty, but buying used freaks me out! Thoughts?
Would love if you bought through us — it’s how you can support our work.
Here’s our article on Certified Reconditioned Vitamix Machines. Preview: The COO gifts them to loved ones. 🙂
Hey Lenny, My name is Anton and my friend recommended me to buy a vitamix, I’m using this for smoothies and meal prepping for weightlifters and butters or whatever I can learn from
Hi Anton,
Have you considered getting an Ascent Series? https://lifeisnoyoke.com/vitamix-ascent
Hello Lenny,
I would like to buy vitamin that can do smoothies and soups for 2-3 people. I would like to buy the refurbished one to save the money. what is the best option for me.
Thanks.
Hi, Shalina. Snag a CR Pro 500 while you still can. Last I checked, they were $299 — a crazy good deal.
Hey Lenny,
Great comparison on Vitamix machines. I’m still a bit torn though. I’m getting one for Christmas (not a surprise, he needed to know which one) but now I’m wondering if I made the wrong choice. I told my husband I wanted the Pro 500 Gallery, which I’ve used the same model at a friends a number of times. I’m now wondering if we should return it in exchange for the pricier G Series 750 on account of noise. We’re building a house, so money is a bit tight, but I’m concerned that the new floor plan being open will mean the Vitamix sound will be bothersome.
Primary use will be smoothies and soups. I also read that the wider container on the 750 can make small batches more difficult. Most smoothies will be large single batches (I’m still trying to convince my husband that smoothies are great, so it will be just for me). Suggested remedy for this is a smaller container for at least another $100. So I’m feeling a bit like my upgrade price difference of over $100 for a quieter blender, means I need to pay yet more for another container. Are there any videos of Pro 500 being run right before a G 750 to listen for sound difference?
I’d appreciate your thoughts.
Hi Samantha,
The sound difference is significant, but not enough to worry about. They’re both loud.
With an open floor plan, you’ll know someone is running the Vitamix no matter what.
Stick with what you got. And if you decide to upgrade to a quieter model with more features, we’ll be here. 🙂
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Wow, awesome article. Been thinking about this for awhile and was seriously thinking about buying at Costco. Think I will skip that option.
Great, Lynda! Let us know if you have any questions along the way 🙂
Hi Lenny,
Good that i read your article on all models of Vitamix. The person doing the demo at Costco had me convinced that 6500 was quieter!! She also said that you can make small servings in the broad 64 oz jar.
I am confused with all the options that Vitamix offers!!
I am looking for Vitamix primarily for smoothies and icecream, occasional nut milks and nut butters. But I want it to be able to make smaller servings (1-2 servings)
Looking at all the information, it seems 5200 is the best option. I have read that the broad jar on all G series is not good for smaller servings. However, I am scared of getting the narrow jar (5200) and not being able to clean it after making nut butter.. How difficult is it to clean greasy stuff? Lot of mixed information on the net!
My other option is either 7500 or Pro 750. But then, I would need a separate smaller container (32 or 48 oz.). Since the 64 oz would be too big for smaller servings…
Does the smaller 32oz container work for 1-2 serving smoothies? Is it compatible with the 5200?
Thanks.
Hi PD,
The 32 ounce container is compatible with the 5200, yep! And not sure where you read about it being more difficult to clean a standard (narrow) 64 ounce container than a wide, low-profile 64 after making nut butter because that’s definitely not the case.
Have you seen this article all about Vitamix containers?
Thanks, Lenny.
I have read in reviews that people have written which says there is lot of wastage with nut butters because you can’t get everything out. Also, those reviews say that the narrow container is difficult to clean after making nut butters.
Anyway, i am glad that is not the case. Thanks for letting me know..
But, i have decided to go with either 7500 or 750 and get a smaller 32oz wet jar. 5200 would take too much space on the counter.
Which would you suggest 7500 or 750? I don’t really care about the presets…
hi Lenny, i am between pro500 or 750 the price is a huge diffrence and the specs dont seem to be really that different form each other. do you know which one wd do better processing 8 cups of boiled beans to make a pattie?? (i dont want a puree) just as a processor would do, is it the right tool for it?? any of those models wd do ok?? thanks for your help.
So, right now our area Costco has the 5300 for $350. I’ve been checking out Vitamix for quite sometime now and that price seems almost too good to pass up. My issue is that, with all of the different models, I’m always afraid that Costco offers a lesser product for great price. Know anything about the 5300? I’m figuring it’s like the 5200 that you’ve reviewed but it does have the compact container…I think 🙂 Argh!
Yeah, it seems like you’ve read below, but the 5300 is fine. It’s basically a G-Series motor encased by a C-Series body powering a wide container. But as you say, you get what you pay for. This model is def not a G-Series. It’s the loudest model you can possibly get — louder than a normal C-Series, like a 5200, for example. If prices too good to pass up is what you want, check out all the models available in the Vitamix Mother’s Day Sale currently going on now. You can see all the sale models on Vitamix.com and here on Vitamix.ca (if you’re in Canada).
Nevermind. I skimmed poorly and found what I was looking for when I took the time to read more thoroughly. Thanks for all of your comments/reviews! Still not quite sure what we’re going to do… 🙂
I get it. It’s a tough decision. If you want to see the Pro 750 in action, we’re doing live demos tomorrow.
Please give me an advice which vitamix is a better buy, an Aspire, reconditioned 5200 or total nutrition center. Thanks a lot!
Kinda depends on what you’re looking for. 🙂
Feel free to email me directly or call my friends at 1-800-Vitamix; we’re happy to help and will make sure you get free shipping with our affiliate code 06-007938. (It also helps to cover the costs of running this site.)