Best Rated Countertop Kitchen Blenders – Comparison & Reviews | 2016-2017

Blender Watts = Watts are a measure of energy used, and is a good indication of the power that the blender can produce to crush ice, and make more consistent smoothies. So, higher watts are better.
Making Smoothies = For smoothies you should get a kitchen blender with at least 550-600 watts of power. Without enough power, a blender will struggle to chop up the contents finely enough, and have trouble pulverizing ice. You can also burn out the motor of an underpowered blender. Green smoothies can use kale or spinach, so you want to see them pureed without a gritty taste or feel.
Glass or Plastic Jar = The main jar used to blend and mix smoothies or other products, is composed either of Glass or Plastic. Glass is rare to see, and most are made with BPA free plastic. Plastic weighs less than glass and is less prone to breaking if dropped.
Smoothie Cups = Many blenders come with personal smoothie cups in addition to the main jar for blending. These cups usually have their own blending blades, and mount right on the blender. These have the advantage of making a much smaller personal sized beverage/smoothie serving.
Number of Speeds = Blenders can have many speeds from low to high. The number of speeds will allow you to adjust the power to the task at hand. Smoothies for instance require the top speed, to pulverize frozen fruit, ice, and seeds.
Pulse Feature = Pulse is a momentary blending controlled by a switch that you hold. This is in effect manual blending. Just hold the pulse button down long enough to blend and mix the ingredients to the consistency you desire.
Pre-Programmed Blender = A blender with pre-programmed settings will automatically blend in the optimal speed for different types of blending. Some examples are Smoothies, Frozen Desserts, Purees, and some can even make Hot Soup.