Blender buying guide

There are a number of criteria to consider when choosing a blender. Before making up your mind, it's a good idea to think about:

• types of liquids (i.e. hot or cold). This will allow you to choose between a traditional blender and a hot and cold blender.

• number of people the blender has to serve to determine container size;

• ease of cleaning (dishwasher safe, removable blades, etc.);

• minimum power rating required;

• additional features to match your needs;

• ergonomics and design;

• budget.

Blenders can be used for all sorts of things whether you're hoping to wow your guests with homemade cocktails or curl up with a warm bowl of soup on a winter's evening. With this in mind, there are three main types of blenders to choose from: traditional blenders, hot and cold and Mix & Go.

1. Traditional blenders

Mainly used to mix cold liquids, these blenders are perfect for making milkshakes, crushing ice or even finely chopping herbs. A traditional blender is more powerful and has more features than a hand blender.

2. Hot and cold blenders

These blenders can perform the same tasks as a traditional blender but can also work to warm food. Hot and cold blenders preserve the temperature of hot liquids as they mix using a heat-resistant bowl. These models are just as good at rustling up a comforting bowl of warm soup as they are at making a refreshing batch of gaspacho!

Please note that some models are designed to mix and heat separately meaning they can't be used to mix warm sauces like bechamel or bearnaise. There are two different types of hot and cold blenders.

Blenders with a heating element

These blenders warm up and cook food using a heating element. They can reach temperatures of 60 to 100°C and offer the most settings and the greatest versatility of any blender.

Friction-based blenders

These blenders feature high-speed blades which create friction to increase temperatures and cook food. They are very noisy due to the constant movement of the blades. However, they create smooth textures and offer quicker cooking times than blenders with heating elements.

3. Mix & Go blenders

Less powerful than other blenders, Mix & Go blenders feature a mixing cup instead of a larger pitcher making it easy to take your drink on the go without having to transfer it into another glass or thermos.

It's important to consider the size and material of the container, or pitcher. This decision depends on how you plan to use the blender on a daily basis.

Working out portion sizes

By figuring out portion sizes per person, per preparation you can calculate the correct container size for your needs. Here's a quick measurement guide to help you make the right choice.

Calculating container size

The size of the blender container should be worked out by the number of people you're hoping to serve. To do so, simply take the measurements set out above and multiply them by the number of people you want to serve.

Blender containers generally range from 300 ml up to 2 litres. It's important to calculate for the usable capacity and not the overall capacity. In fact there can be a difference of up to a litre between the two measurements. This is particularly important for models with taller blades which require a minimum amount of liquid to mix properly.

Choosing a blender container material

Blender containers can be made of plastic, glass or stainless steel. Here's a quick table comparing the various materials.

Mix & Go containers

Mix & Go cups have a capacity of 350 to 570 ml. Designed to be portable, these containers are generally made of plastic.

Some blenders come with a range of modes, settings or programmes that can be worthwhile finding out about before you purchase.

• Manual mode: generally used by more skilled cooks, this mode allows you to vary the mixing speed to control the texture of your food preparation.

• Auto mode: pre-set modes can be used to save time and mean you won't have to worry about cooking times or mixing speed.

• Pulse mode: this mode allows you to start off at maximum speed which is ideal for making sauces and mayonnaise.

• Ice crush mode: if a blender comes with this option, be sure to check that it is rated at least 500 W.

• Keep warm mode: this mode is only available with hot and cold blenders.

For straightforward and practical use, it's a good idea to check that the blade is dishwasher safe. Some models also come with a clean mode.

Blenders with a heating element and friction-based blenders rarely come with detachable blades. Just after use, it is recommended to rinse the container and lid before mixing some water and dish soap directly in the pitcher. One last rinse and you should be ready to go!

The power of a blender is measured in watts and ranges from 200 to 1600 W depending on the model. Some options require more energy than others and this should be taken into account when looking at power ratings. The mixing quality of a traditional blender is mediocre and is rarely higher than 300 W.

When it comes to hot and cold blenders, you need enough power to both mix and heat. It is therefore best to look for 800 W minimum. The higher the power rating, the easier the blender will cope with mixing tasks like preparing thicker liquids or larger volumes.

If you plan to use your blender to break down nuts like almonds or hazelnuts, look for at least 1000 W.

This table provides a quick guide to the kinds of prices you can expect to pay depending on your needs.

Some information won't necessarily be noted in the product specs. However, certain details can be really important when it comes to picking a blender.

Blades

The greater the number of blades, the more efficient the blender. A blender with six blades will have no issue breaking down and mixing harder foodstuffs. Some blades are serrated which makes them even more effective. If you are only mixing fruit and vegetables, four blades will do.

Ergonomics and design

If your blender is going to be sitting on your kitchen worktop, the design is important. Otherwise, go for a compact blender that will store away easily in your cupboards.

Weight

A blender should be fairly heavy (2.5 kg on average) as this gives the appliance stability as it mixes.

Now you have all the information you need to choose the perfect blender. Simply take note of the most important criteria for you and check that your new blender can check all the boxes!

Don't hesitate to check out more of our kitchen guides.

• How to plan a kitchen layout

• Fitted kitchen buying guide