Blenders are essential kitchen appliances found in most homes. They allow you to quickly and easily blend, puree, chop, grind, and mix ingredients. But with so many models on the market, at such varying prices, it can be tricky to know what the average cost of a blender is.
Factors That Influence Blender Prices
Several key factors contribute to blender pricing:
- Motor power – More watts means a more powerful motor. Common options range from 300-1500W.
- Speed settings – Lower-end models may have just 3-5 preset speeds, while higher-end blenders have 10+ variable speed options.
- Blade design – More blades (e.g. 6 vs 4) and unique shapes/angles allow for improved blending.
- Capacity – Standard pitchers are 48-64oz, but some smaller or larger blenders go from 20-80+ oz.
- Functions – Pre-set programs for smoothies, crushed ice, hot soups, etc. add convenience.
- Materials – Glass, plastic (BPA-free), or stainless steel pitchers have different durability.
- Brand name – Well-known brands like Vitamix, Blendtec, KitchenAid come at a premium.
- Warranty – Longer warranties (5-10 years) signal better quality and add peace of mind.
Average Blender Cost by Type
Broadly speaking, blenders fall into three main categories:
Personal/Single Serve Blenders
Designed for one or two servings. Lower powered with small capacity (20-24 oz). Best for smoothies, shakes, and simple tasks. Average price range: $15-$60.
Standard Kitchen Blenders
Ideal for typical household needs of 3-6 people. Mix of convenience and versatility. Average price range: $40-$150.
High-Performance Blenders
Commercial-grade power and durability for frequent use. Priciest models designed to blend tough ingredients. Average price range: $200-$700.
Of course, you can find some blenders outside of these ranges at the very low or very high end. But for most consumers, these provide a good framework for average pricing.
Factors Driving Price Differences
Why such large ranges within each blender category? Here are some of the key differences that impact pricing:
| Blender Type | Lower Price Range | Higher Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Personal Blender | 250W motor, 1-2 speeds, plastic jar, 1 year warranty | 400W motor, 5 speeds, glass jar, 3 year warranty |
| Standard Blender | 400W motor, 3-5 speeds, 48oz plastic jar, 2 year warranty | 1100W motor, 10 speeds, 64oz glass jar, 5 year warranty |
| High-Performance Blender | 1200W motor, 3 presets, 64oz plastic jar, 5 year warranty | 1500W motor, 10+ presets, 80oz stainless steel jar, 10 year warranty |
For personal blenders, more power, speeds, and durable materials command higher prices. Standard blender pricing is largely driven by motor power and warranty length. And high-performance blenders jump up in cost when they include stainless steel jars and extensive pre-programmed settings.
Average Prices of Popular Blender Models
Looking at some of the best-selling models across blender categories also gives a good indication of average pricing:
| Blender | Type | Average Price |
|---|---|---|
| Ninja Fit Personal Blender | Personal | $50 |
| NutriBullet Pro | Personal | $90 |
| Oster Beehive Classic | Standard | $70 |
| KitchenAid 5-Speed Classic | Standard | $100 |
| Vitamix Explorian | High-Performance | $350 |
| Blendtec Professional 800 | High-Performance | $600 |
Entry-level personal blenders start around $50, with more advanced models nearing $100. Standard kitchen blenders range from about $70 on the low end up to $150 for high-powered models with long warranties. And high-performance blenders go from around $350 for basic models up to $600+ for commercial-grade machines.
Factors to Consider When Buying a Blender
When deciding what blender is right for your needs and budget, keep the following in mind:
Your blending needs
Think about what you’ll primarily use your blender for and how often. Blending occasional smoothies and milkshakes doesn’t require a robust machine. But frequent use for grinding and pureeing calls for more power and durability.
Pitcher capacity
Standard 48-64oz pitchers suit most needs. But if you’ll blend large batches frequently, a larger capacity is worth the extra cost. For single servings, a personal blender takes up less space.
Functions and settings
Variable speed settings provide more control compared to simple high/low/pulse modes. Pre-programmed cycles are convenient if you make the same drinks often.
Ease of use and cleaning
Look for dishwasher-safe parts. Touch controls and pour spouts add convenience. And plastic jars are lighter than glass.
Noise level
Higher-powered blenders tend to be louder. If noise is a concern, look for quieter models or dampening technology.
Warranty
Opt for at least a 2-year warranty. Longer 5-10 year warranties indicate better quality for high-performance blenders.
Brand reputation
Stick to well-known brands like Oster, KitchenAid, and Vitamix for proven reliability and performance.
Reviews
Check buyer reviews on sites like Amazon to learn from real-world experiences with specific blenders.
Price
Set a budget and look for best value at that price point. Avoid the cheapest models which lack power and durability.
Used and Refurbished Options
If you’re looking to save some money, consider checking for used or refurbished blenders. Sites like eBay, Craigslist, and Facebook Marketplace let you find good deals on secondhand blenders. Or you can find certified refurbished blenders directly from brands like Vitamix, Blendtec, and Ninja which undergo rigorous inspection and testing.
The average savings on a refurbished high-performance blender is around 30-50% off retail pricing. Just be sure to look at condition, verify that key parts/accessories are included, and confirm the warranty terms when buying used or refurbished.
Conclusion
Finding the right blender doesn’t have to be confusing. While prices vary widely, you can expect to pay around $50-100 for a personal blender, $70-150 for a versatile standard kitchen blender, and $350-600+ for a top-of-the-line high-powered blender. Consider your blending frequency, capacity needs, desired features, brand reputation, and budget to choose the best option for your kitchen.
