A smoothie and smoothie blender has gained immense popularity. With its help, high-quality mixing of ingredients is ensured in compliance with the required proportions.
The final product acquires an excellent and peculiar taste, replenishing the body with vitamins.
Despite the fact that this group of devices does not fundamentally differ from blenders for other purposes, the characteristic nuances must be taken into account when choosing the optimal model.
Which is better to choose and what to look for?
The requirements for the parameters of blenders for cocktails and smoothies stem mainly from the composition of the drink. Almost any blender can handle the preparation of cocktails, as they are based on liquids (juices, milk, etc.). Sometimes soft ingredients (berries, fruits, jellies, etc.) are added to them. The task of grinding such components and mixing to a uniform consistency is easily solved even by low-power devices.
Problems can arise when making a smoothie, where nuts and dried fruits can be used as additives, and a quality drink is obtained by grinding ice or frozen ingredients. To grind them you will need a more powerful device and special nozzles. Given these nuances, it should be clearly determined whether the blender will be used only for cocktails or whether both drinks will be prepared. In the latter case, when choosing a model, you need to focus on the smoothie preparation function.
In general, the selection of the optimal model for the home is carried out according to the main criteria.
It should take into account the frequency of use, the need for the volume of the final product, the possibility of expanding functions, ease of maintenance, reliability and safety.
Most often, an alternative is decided - the maximum capabilities of the device at the lowest cost.
Blenders are available in 2 varieties:
- Submersible type. It consists of a closed unit with an electric motor, on the shaft of which nozzles are fixed from below. The working body is manually inserted into the container (a glass in the set of the device or any convenient vessel). The whole process is visually controlled, and the blender is held in the hand throughout the process. The main advantages of the submersible design: small size, constant process control, speed of preparation, the ability to use any capacity. Cons: limited volume, reduced power, the need to hold in the hand.
- Stationary type. This is a desktop version in which the electric motor is located at the base. A bowl (jug) is mounted on it, after which a nozzle is fixed on the shaft. Such a blender does not require the direct participation of the hostess in the cooking process. The desired program starts, and after a certain time the device turns off. Advantages: process automation, significant net volume, increased power, no need to hold the device in your hand. Cons: oversized, more difficult disassembly for washing.
Power
The power of the device is the most important selection criterion that determines the possibilities of grinding and the speed of preparation of the drink. An electric motor with power from 250 to 3000 watts can be installed in blenders. With its increase, universality increases, but the price rises sharply. Choose the device should be taking into account the real purpose.
High power is not required for making cocktails.. A stationary blender with a power of 300-350 watts is quite suitable. Grinding solid ingredients and smoothie ice requires an increase in this setting. The minimum values are 500-550 watts.
The speed of preparation of the drink depends on the power of the device. If there is a need for instant crushing of ice pieces, then you should think about a blender for 1-1.5 kW.
How to choose a blender for making smoothies and milkshakes?
- device type.
Today in stores you can find portable and stationary models that differ from each other in tank volume and functionality.
If necessary, take the prepared drink with you to work or on a trip, you should choose a portable device, - bowl capacity.
Miniature fitness machines are equipped with 0.3-0.35 liter bottles.
However, stationary-type models can be equipped with capacities of 1.5-2 liters.
The choice depends on the preferences and needs of the buyer, - maximum power.
Manufacturers offer devices with power from 120 to 650 watts.
The best option for creating a variety of drinks will be an electrical appliance with a capacity of 350 watts.
But if the unit is purchased for grinding solid products or ice crushing, it is better to opt for a device with a maximum rate, - case material.
The housing of the power unit can be plastic, metal or combined.
Metal models are considered more reliable, but modern plastic devices can compete well and please the user with a long service life, - additional features and accessories.
Many manufacturers complement their gadgets with grinders, whisks and special nozzles for chopping ice.
The presence of accessories slightly increases the cost of the device, but greatly simplifies the work with the unit and expands the possibilities.
Miniature fitness machines are equipped with 0.3-0.35 liter bottles. Xiaomi Pinlo Little Monster Cooking Machine White
A miniature device that will be a great option for making healthy drinks.
A compact model that can conquer even experienced owners with its ergonomics and manufacturability.
Thanks to the presence of high-quality components and a high-power engine, the device will last without breakdown for many years, helping the user to prepare various drinks for every taste.
After cooking the neck or smoothie, the appliance is easily cleaned of residues under a stream of cold water without the use of special detergents and hard washcloths.
Specifications:
- bowl capacity - 0.45 l,
- the number of working speeds - 1,
- power - 500 W
- case material - plastic,
- type of control - mechanical.
Benefits
- liquid splash prevention
- ease of use and storage,
- high speed engine
- a small travel bottle included
- Modern and stylish design.
disadvantages
- increased level of sound,
- slight heating of the case during operation,
- just one speed.
VES electric M-143
Representative electrical appliance that allows the owner to easily create a variety of drinks and dishes.
A versatile fitness blender in a high-strength metal-plastic case, with the ability to instantly grind loaded foods, turning them into a thick smoothie or cocktail.
The unit is equipped with two bottles and sealed drinking caps with valves, which allows you to take the prepared drink with you to work or have a picnic.
Specifications:
- bowl capacity - 0.6 l,
- the number of working speeds - 1,
- power - 500 W
- case material - metal, plastic,
- type of control - mechanical.
Benefits
- thoughtful equipment
- high-quality assembly
- acceptable price,
- Attractive appearance
- power cord of sufficient length.
disadvantages
- slight vibration during grinding,
- light plastic smell
- noisy work.
Philips HR2602
Introduced by a well-known Dutch company, a blender designed to become an excellent assistant for busy housewives.
Sophisticated single-speed model in mini-format, equipped with a jug with an ergonomic design and a cross-shaped blade, ideally grinding components.
The device is able to cope not only with grinding soft products, but also with cracking ice.
Therefore, the user will have the opportunity to supplement the prepared cocktail or shake with ice crystals.
Specifications:
- bowl capacity - 1 l
- the number of working speeds - 2,
- power - 350 W
- case material - plastic,
- type of control - mechanical.
Benefits
- removable cross blade,
- ease of cleansing
- capacious tank
- Travel glass included
- concise design.
disadvantages
- insufficient length cord
- pollution of the snow-white housing,
- problematic opening of the lid.
VES electric M-170
A high-performance unit aimed at efficiently grinding loaded components.
A multifunctional fitness unit with a powerful motor unit that combines the functions of three electrical appliances: a blender, grinder and coffee grinder.
Each accessory is equipped with its own knife block, which simplifies the work with the device.
All removable components can be cleaned in the dishwasher.
Specifications:
- bowl capacity - 0.6 l,
- the number of working speeds - 1,
- power - 500 W
- case material - plastic,
- type of control - mechanical.
Benefits
- stable location on work surfaces
- the possibility of grinding coffee beans,
- dishwasher-safe
- hermetically sealed cover
- instant grinding.
disadvantages
- tight cap
- one working speed
- the need to take a break during work.
Take It X2
High-speed electric unit that allows you to instantly prepare a delicious drink.
Easy to use and maintain, the device does not require special skills for effective work.
The device is equipped with a long-lasting battery, so the owner will find a charger with a USB input complete with it.
The model is available in several bright color schemes, which means that each buyer will be able to choose the most suitable option for himself.
Specifications:
- bowl capacity - 0.3 l,
- the number of working speeds - 1,
- power - 300 W
- case material - metal, plastic,
- type of control - mechanical.
Benefits
- healthy materials
- uniform processing of products
- ease of purification
- reliable protection against overheating,
- affordable price segment.
disadvantages
- the need to chop products
- the inability to grind while charging the unit,
- small capacity.
RAWMID Portable RPB-03
Modern battery equipment for making smoothies, which will be appreciated by lovers of healthy nutrition.
The portable wireless blender, presented in a blue-white plastic case.
The model is equipped with a grinder, mill and whisk for whipping.
Thanks to this, the user will have the opportunity to prepare not only a cocktail, smoothie or shake, but also to make a full-fledged dish, complementing it with interesting sauces.
Specifications:
- bowl capacity - 0.35 l,
- the number of working speeds - 1,
- power - 222 W,
- case material - plastic,
- type of control - mechanical.
Benefits
- two batteries included
- thoughtful and rich equipment,
- battery indicator
- the possibility of recharging from the cigarette lighter,
- ease of cleansing.
disadvantages
- long battery charging
- small bowl
- the need to finely chop products.
Philips HR2604
A device designed specifically for making excellent drinks with an unforgettable taste.
Stationary two-speed model with a powerful motor and a cross-shaped blade of increased strength.
The blade is quite simple to maintain in good condition, and it is easy to clean from dirt manually due to the ability to remove it.
For convenient operation, the unit is supplemented by a mill and removable elements, which can be found in the kit.
Specifications:
- bowl capacity - 1 l
- the number of working speeds - 2,
- power - 350 W
- case material - plastic,
- type of control - mechanical.
Benefits
- the ability to crush ice
- cleaning removable items in the dishwasher,
- sharp stainless steel knives,
- a small cup included
- stylish design.
disadvantages
- lack of a compartment for storing an electric wire,
- easily soiled plastic case,
- noisy grinding.
Philips HR3556 Viva Collection
A unique device that eliminates the need to grind ingredients with a knife.
Large blender with a spacious jug made of heat-resistant material.
The device is equipped with a powerful motor and a regulator for independent selection of the speed suitable for grinding and mixing.
Efficient mixing of the components is guaranteed by sharp blades that instantly grind sliced pieces.
Specifications:
- bowl capacity - 2 l,
- the number of working speeds - 2,
- power - 900 W
- case material - plastic,
- type of control - mechanical.
Benefits
- obtaining a perfect uniform texture,
- the presence of marks for monitoring the liquid level,
- the presence of a travel bottle in the set,
- high power operation
- anti-slip regulator.
disadvantages
- large pieces are chopped for a long time,
- Insufficient power cord
- increased sound power level.
REDMOND RSB-M3401
A compact assistant who will occupy a special place in the kitchen of athletes and people leading a healthy lifestyle.
Personal 5-in-1 blender, designed for daily meals and drinks, as well as various sauces, milkshakes, berry, fruit and vegetable smoothies, as well as sports nutrition.
The two-speed device quickly and efficiently rewinds even large pieces, evenly mixing the components until a smooth structure and a uniform consistency are obtained.
In the presence of a mill.
Specifications:
- bowl capacity - 0.8 l,
- the number of working speeds - 2,
- power - 750 W,
- case material - metal, plastic,
- type of control - mechanical.
Benefits
- the presence of a coffee grinder,
- thoughtful protection against overheating,
- Tritan Travel Glasses
- compact design
- acceptable price.
disadvantages
- increased level of sound,
- slight heating of the case,
- marks can be erased.
Xiaomi Circle Kitchen CD-BL01
The advanced fitness blender, which is compact and ultra-ergonomic.
An excellent kitchen unit of a stationary type, presented in a high-strength metal-plastic case.
The equipment is small and lightweight, which allows you to easily move it, as well as take with you on long trips or for a walk.
The device is controlled using a small rotary controller.
Specifications:
- bowl capacity - 0.6 l,
- the number of working speeds - 1,
- power - 250 W
- case material - metal, plastic,
- type of control - mechanical.
Benefits
- fast and efficient grinding of ingredients
- advanced equipment
- elementary mechanical control,
- ease of maintenance
- modern design.
disadvantages
- just one working speed
- the inability to process large volumes,
- overcharge.
Midea MC-BL1002
High-tech apparatus, greatly simplifying the process of preparing delicious cocktails.
Stationary unit, enclosed in a metal-plastic case, not heated during continuous grinding.
The device is equipped with a capacious glass food bowl and can operate at maximum speed in a pulsed mode.
Specifications:
- bowl capacity - 1.5 l,
- number of working speeds - 3,
- power - 1800 W,
- case material - metal, plastic,
- type of control - mechanical.
Benefits
- operational safety
- the presence of light indicators,
- sharp stainless steel blades,
- a jug with a small nose,
- ease of cleaning from pollution.
disadvantages
- the impossibility of making mashed potatoes,
- increased sound power
- hot liquids should not be added to the jug.
Kitfort KT-1363
The unique development of a trusted Chinese manufacturer, with many useful options.
Compact design with a double plastic glass, allowing you to maintain the temperature of a freshly prepared drink for a long time.
The unit is aimed not only at making smoothies and milkshakes, but also at kneading the dough, as well as breaking ice.
Specifications:
- bowl capacity - 0.45 l,
- the number of working speeds - 1,
- power - 250 W
- case material - plastic,
- type of control - mechanical.
Benefits
- simple and elegant design,
- the opportunity to take a drink with you,
- obtaining a homogeneous consistency,
- quick grinding of pieces
- cooking baby food.
disadvantages
- only one working speed
- difficulty opening the lid,
- traces remain on the case.
What is the difference between professional smoothie blender models?
Unlike standard devices designed for making vitamin drinks at home, professional blenders have a more powerful motor unit and are able to process products loaded into the bowl several times faster regardless of their density and size.
Such units perfectly cope not only with the creation of drinks, but also with kneading the dough, grinding coffee beans and nuts, and chopping ice.
How to quickly make a milkshake in a blender?
For a quick cocktail bananas, strawberries or other fruits and berries should be loaded into the blender bowl.
Components grind at low speed, then add ice cream or milk.
By re-mixing the ingredients and achieving the desired consistency, the drink can be poured into glasses or taken with you.
The whole process of preparing a healthy drink will take no more than 2-3 minutes.
How to make kiwi juice using a blender?
To make low-calorie kiwi juice, you should peel 3-5 fruits, cut the fruits into 4 parts and load them into the blender bowl.
Grind the kiwi at maximum speed to a uniform consistency, leave the resulting drink for 10 minutes.
Then need strain the juice through several times folded cheesecloth or sieve - all pulp, solid particles and small bones will remain in the filter, and delicious natural juice will fall into the glass.
Kitfort KT-1359
- high power
- metal drive
- many speeds
- clover bowl
Kitfort KT-1359 is a powerful blender with 15 operating modes. Its rotation speed is 26 thousand rpm, and power - 1500 watts. The device is equipped with an 8-blade stainless steel knife. A clover-shaped container ensures efficient mixing of the components.
RAWMID Dream Samurai BDS-04
- quality performance
- high power
- many speeds
- grinds even the seeds of berries, seeds
RAWMID Dream Samurai BDS-04 is a professional device with increased performance. The blender has a high power of 2900 W, which allows grinding products of different hardness. Special attention should be paid to the high-quality 8-hazard Japanese knife. The manufacturer equipped the device with a capacious plastic bowl of 2 liters of a unique shape for better mixing.
Bosch MMB 43G2
- quality of materials and assembly
- quiet at work
- good design and ergonomics
- 2.3l glass bowl
- low power
Bosch MMB 43G2 is a handy stationary hand blender with mechanical control. The device is made of durable and damage-resistant plastic, the bowl is made of heat-resistant glass. The model has 5 speeds, power is 700 watts. Thanks to the pulse mode, the user can grind solid products.
Gemlux GL-BL815G
- stylish appearance
- metal case
- low price
- small number of speeds
Gemlux GL-BL815G is a high-quality 2-speed blender. The model is equipped with an engine power of 850 watts, a glass bowl of 1.5 liters. The robust stainless steel housing guarantees stability at high speeds. The device has a pulse mode, ice breaking and the option of self-cleaning. The maximum speed of the device is 20 thousand rpm.
Xiaomi 17PIN Star Fruit Cup
- durable glass
- whips well
- wireless charging
- quality performance
- low battery capacity
The Xiaomi brand has released a high-quality blender 17PIN Star Fruit Cup. The device operates in 1-speed mode, equipped with a glass bowl with a capacity of 400 ml and light indication. The blender operates from 2 batteries with a capacity of 700 mAh, up to 15 cups of drink are enough for a full charge.
Take It X4
- 4-blade knife
- high-quality grinding
- metal case
- capacious battery
- no significant flaws identified
The case is made of metal, the container is made of food plastic. The device operates at 15-16 thousand rpm, its capacity is 7.4 V. It is equipped with a 400 ml bowl and 4-blade stainless steel knives that provide more thorough grinding. Battery capacity - 5100 mAh.
Is it possible to make a smoothie a hand blender?
The submersible blender performs the same operations as the stationary one. It differs in compact dimensions, less power. Performs a basic set of functions and copes with many tasks. With it, you can cook smoothies, milkshakes, baby food, cream soups, whip cream.
Submersible devices do not always give the necessary grinding in those cases when the composition of the drink includes nuts or frozen berries. Therefore, attention must be paid to power. To prepare a smoothie from soft ingredients, the user will need only 200-700 watts. If you need to break the ice or grind seeds or nuts, then you need to pay attention to models from 800 watts.
To make smoothies and smoothies smooth, you need to cut the ingredients into small pieces.
What nozzles do smoothies in a blender
Suitable nozzles for smoothies in a blender - chopper and leg-nozzle. With their help, you can prepare cocktails, mashed soups, finely chop vegetables and fruits, meat. A blender leg is the best option for making cocktails. She finely grinds and mixes the components, whips them to a creamy state. To obtain a homogeneous mass, as well as for processing nuts and frozen berries, a chopper nozzle is suitable.
To make smoothies with a hand blender, you need to:
- place the components in a narrow glass, you can pre-cut into small parts,
- select a mode and get to work,
- the cooking time is 30-60 seconds depending on the selected ingredients.
Blenders are a useful kitchen appliance for making smoothies and smoothies. The review involved the best stationary and portable models with different technical indicators. When choosing, it is worth paying attention to power, number of speeds, material and capacity of the bowl, additional features.
Submersible
Their main advantage is compactness and mobility. An electric motor is hidden in an elongated plastic case, to which a “leg” with knives is attached.
The presence of several nozzles allows you to successfully cope not only with the ingredients of cocktails, but also with more serious products, such as meat and dough. If you need a versatile kitchen assistant, this is it!
Rotational speed
To get a quality product, you need to pay attention to the speed mode of the device. The ability to adjust the speed increases the capabilities of the blender. In modern devices, up to 30 different modes are provided, which are set by turning the lever. For cocktails and smoothies, the presence of 2-5 speeds is quite enough.
The vast majority of devices have a turbo mode. It provides work at maximum speed, developing the greatest power. Of interest is the pulse mode. In this case, rotation occurs only when the button is held manually.
Stationary
Stationary models are more convenient for making cocktails. The mixing tank is mounted on the base and started from the control panel. The design advantage is a spacious bowl with a volume of 1.5–2.5 liters.
If you like a stationary device for cocktails, when choosing, pay attention to the material of the bowl. Transparent plastic in low-cost models over time becomes colored in the color of products, especially if you grind bright berries and fruits.
In addition, often the inside is covered with a scattering of scratches, from which the bowl seems cloudy. Glass is an excellent choice, winning over all points in plastic, the only thing is that such a bowl requires careful handling.
A separate category is shakers. Their goal is to simply mix the ingredients in a quality manner without prior grinding. For personal use, you can purchase a glass shaker, for example, Сontigo Shake & Go Fit Compartment or BlenderBottle ProStak.
Pros and cons
- Compactness and ability to quietly lurk on the kitchen shelf.
- Easy to disassemble and clean.
- It is relevant when cooking small portions.
- Low price.
- The need to constantly participate in the process of preparation and mixing.
- Inability to grind a large number of ingredients immediately.
- Full automation of the process.
- High power.
- A bowl of large volume.
- The ability to add ingredients as you mix.
- Bulky construction.
- Long disassembly when washing.
Basic principles of choice
Instructions and recommendations:
Power. What to look for when choosing? First of all, power:
- if you have to grind and whip only soft products, take a low-power model up to 250 W,
- one step higher are models with power from 250 to 600 watts. They will cope with almost all fruits and vegetables, but ice and nuts will not be “tough” to them,
- from 650 to 1000 watts - a universal solution that can grind and whisk everything that is required for a cocktail, including frozen fruits and ice.
Volume. If you need a good blender for making drinks for a large company, take a stationary one.
- PHILIPS Daily Collection HR2103 / 00,
- TEFAL BL313A38,
- KENWOOD BLP400WH,
- BOSCH MMB65G0M,
- PHILIPS Avance Collection HR3652 / 00.
All presented models have a bowl with a capacity of more than 1500 ml.
A useful addition would be a set of glass glasses with lids. Such dishes can be used not only for storage, but also for serving cocktails.
Speed shifter . For cocktails, the presence of several speeds is relevant (from 6 to 10). Such a blender will be able to grind the ingredients, mix them, and, if necessary, beat into foam.
Continuous speed adjustment in models:
- PHILIPS Avance Collection HR3652 / 00,
- STADLER FORM Blender Two SFB.700,
- KENWOOD BLP 600,
- CASO B3000 Touch,
- STEBA MX 2 PLUS.
Model Overview
Model designed for home. It has only two speeds, which allows her to cope with the simplest recipes and uncomplicated ingredients.
- pulse mode
- extended configuration with two containers,
- sealed covers and coffee grinder.
Excellent characteristics and low cost.
A power of 700 watts is enough for splitting ice. And you will prepare a fruit smoothie or a milkshake in two counts.
Similarly to the previous model, it has a power of 700 watts. Equipped with:
- ice splitting function,
- pulse mode
- five speeds with smooth adjustment,
- has three interchangeable glasses with vacuum caps.
Bowl volume
A single serving of the prepared beverage depends on the size and volume of the bowl. Miniature devices can have their own capacity of 0.4-0.6 ml (shown in the photo). In large families, interest is shown in jugs of 2-2.5 liters. The optimal volume is 0.6-1 liters.
The choice for this parameter should be made based on real needs.
Large containers significantly increase the dimensions and weight of the blender, which is important for small kitchens and the need for periodic transportation.
In addition, the price increases markedly.
It is important to consider that the useful volume of the bowl is slightly less than its geometric volume. For a real estimate, you should subtract 150-200 ml.
Nozzles
The functionality of the blender depends on the shape of the nozzles included in its package.
Good appliances can have 3-4 of these elements:
- Removable knife on the leg (usually made of plastic). It will be needed for mashed potatoes and chopping vegetables.
- Whisk. Designed for whipping.
- Built-in chopping knives. They do an excellent job with products of varying hardness.
It is installed at the bottom of the bowl, grinds the ingredients and mixes all the ingredients. For “foam” cocktails, a whisk is required. With large volumes of ice, a special nozzle is used to crack it, but at home it is used extremely rarely. A small shredder can handle small pieces of ice.
Materials used
The body of the blender can be made of plastic or metal. A combination of these materials is possible. Modern high-strength plastics provide sufficient strength. The main disadvantage is the lack of scratch resistance, which can ruin the appearance during careless operation. Metal bodies are highly durable and durable. Of greatest interest is stainless steel. The main disadvantage of metal is the increased cost.
It is important to pay attention to the bowl material. It can be made of plastic, glass and stainless steel. Glass has an important advantage. Its transparency provides visual control of the process, which is important when preparing a smoothie.. The main disadvantage is fragility, requiring careful handling.
Protective functions
Reliability and durability of the device depends on the presence of protective systems that automatically turn off the electric motor when dangerous influences occur.
In a blender, it is desirable to have:
- Protection against overheating, which occurs under excessive load and can lead to damage to the insulation of the motor winding.
- Surge protection, which is especially important in networks where surges are possible.
- Lock on when the bowl is installed incorrectly, because it is dangerous for others and causes engine overload.
In addition to protecting the motor, it is important to ensure the safety of the person using the device. Electric shock should be avoided when touching the body and holding the hand blender in hand.
Control
Most devices provide electromechanical control using buttons and levers. Such a system is easy to operate and reliable enough.. Some modern models provide touch control of the electronic system. Such devices usually contain small displays that display the most important information about the current mode.
Nutrition
Most housewives prefer more reliable blenders that operate on 220 V. When choosing, pay attention to the length of the power cord. Inconvenience is noted if it is less than 1 m. Simplifies the connection of a cord 1.3-1.5 m long.
With frequent transportation of the blender and the desire to use it in places where there is no electricity, attention is drawn to self-powered devices, i.e. with built-in battery. High-quality, modern devices are equipped with 12V lithium-ion batteries, providing 20-30 uses without recharging. The main disadvantage of self-powered blenders is the power limit (not higher than 400 watts).
When choosing a blender for the home, particular attention is paid to the cost. According to this indicator, the economy category, mid-price group and professional appliances (premium class) are distinguished. There are many different equipment on the Russian market, but only trusted manufacturers guarantee quality and reliability.. The ratings of the best models, compiled according to customer reviews and expert estimates, can help in choosing.
