Types Of Vitamix Glass Blender

If you have ever taken a remote interest in healthy eating and the industry behind it, you will probably have heard of Vitamix. 

The legendary blender brand that is coveted by health enthusiasts around the world, you cannot get through a conversation about smoothies or a visit to a health food shop without a mention of Vitamix.  

While it is often colloquially referred to as “the Vitamix” in actuality, there were 30 different models available at one point. 

This makes the world of Vitamix blenders feel even more overwhelming than it already did, but luckily, now they have streamlined their collection to only 15 different models which they have conveniently divided into different lines.

However, Vitamix also produces exclusive packages for retailers such as Costco or shopping channel QVC with their own unique model names which can leave you wondering if you are purchasing a genuine product or not. 

With such a huge range of products and lines available, it is easy for people to get overwhelmed when trying to work out which Vitamix is best for them. 

In this review guide, we will compare all of the Vitamix models to help you decide which is best for you.

Who Is Vitamix?

Before we dive into the many branches of the Vitamix family tree, who actually is Vitamix and where did they come from? 

Long before the popularity of Vitamix blenders exploded in the 21st century with fitness vloggers and health Instagram accounts, the Vitamix legacy began with a humble, demonstrative salesman trying to make it easier for people to access healthy, canned food safely, all year round. 

William Grover Bernard, or “Papa Bernard” wanted to help people to live healthier lives way back in 1921 by selling a simple can opener. 

The Bernard family became whole food pioneers after finding a cure for a family member’s chronic illness through food. 

They overhauled their diets, denouncing meat, sugar, and caffeine. 

Feeling the plethora of benefits of their diet and lifestyle, in the late 1930’s the Bernards opened their first store offering health foods and vitamins. 

When Papa Bernard realized that a powerful blender could make healthy foods taste much more appealing, the Vitamix was born and sold in the family store. 

Over the next nine decades, the Vitamix has been sold as a means to access a healthier diet and lifestyle. 

Over the years the Bernards created books that supported the idea that nutrition can help to cure many physical ailments, as well as recipes that were rich in core nutrients on their mission to help people access better health. 

In the 1990’s whirlwind of dangerous and unhealthy diet crazes, Vitamix as a company played a vital role in educating people on the difference between calories and nutrition.

Even now, with diet fads ever-present on social media, and fast, nutritionally sparse food readily available, Vitamix’s foundation is committed to the elimination of diseases caused by poor nutrition through the consumption of a plant-based, whole food diet. 

Vitamix is one of those rare companies that genuinely seems to care about the message that launched it, which explains why its products are as popular and highly praised as they are. 

Vitamix Grouping

Now that we know the history behind these desirable products and the mission that drives the company still, let’s get into the various products that are available on the market. 

Vitamix has two main categories of products, commercial and non-commercial.  Their commercial products are designed to be used within restaurant, bar, and coffee shop settings. 

These products are larger than the commercial ones, louder, and significantly more expensive, they also come with a shorter warranty. 

For this review guide, we will be exclusively looking at the commercial category which is designed for domestic use, either on a personal or familial level. 

These products are cheaper (but not cheap) and a much more convenient size to fit on your kitchen counter. 

Vitamix has three main lines of products, two of which are split into two further categories. 

While a lot of Vitamix blenders look extremely similar, there are enough differences in capabilities and features to justify their place in the collection. 

Let’s take a look at the different Vitamix blenders and what they have to offer. 

Legacy

The Legacy range from Vitamix contains some of the most popular blenders available from the company.  

All of the blenders available in the Legacy collection are able to perform the standard Vitamix functions. 

They can create green smoothies with leafy green vegetables, blend hot soups, make frozen desserts, and puree food, make thick dips, produce crunchy and smooth nut butter, form a sticky dough, crush ice, and mix luxurious cake batter. 

Vitamix are products where you can genuinely ask “what more could you ask for?”.  

The only thing that the Legacy range is missing is the smart capabilities of the Smart Series range, but we will look at that later. 

The Legacy range is a great starting point for those who are new to the world of powerful blenders and want to start with a trusted, reputable brand like Vitamix.

Classic (C-Series)

The Classic or the C-Series is the most populated series that Vitamix currently offers, it is also the most popular series. 

In this range are the 5200,  Pro 500, TurboBlend 3-Speed, 5300, and 6500.  Despite being the oldest series in the range, the blenders available still pack a punch and will be a great addition to your kitchen appliances.

So, what are the differences between the five blenders in this range?  Well, there are three main elements that vary between the models.  

Container Design 

The first of which is the container or jug design.  The design of the blender’s container varies based on the size of the motor within the blender. 

If your blender has a motor with 2HP it will have a tall, 64oz container, this is the most common design in the C-Series.  If your blender has a motor with 2.2HP it will have a short, 64oz container. 

Because both container designs have the same overall capacity, the decision as to which one will be best for you comes down to what you are going to use your blender for the most, and where you are going to store your blender. 

If you are mostly intending to make single servings of smoothies or small batches of soup, a blender with a tall container will work best for you due to the smaller surface area at the base. 

If you are going to be making larger quantities of food in your blender, or a mix of large and medium batches, either blender will work for you. 

Similarly, if you have to ensure that your blender will fit underneath a standard kitchen cabinet, you are better off purchasing a Vitamix with a short container, if you don’t have space constraints, it doesn’t matter whether you purchase a blender with a short or tall container.

Motor Power

As we touched on above, there are two classes of motor within the C-Series blenders. 

The 5200, Pro 500, and TurboBlend 3-Speed models all feature the 2HP motor, which is plenty powerful enough to blend even the toughest of ingredients. 

The 5300 and 6500 feature a slightly more powerful 2.2HP motor.  

The difference between the power in the motors is insignificant almost to the point of obscurity.  This minute difference shrinks even more in practice. 

Within the context of everyday usage, the motor drops to a running horsepower after firing up which results in almost identical power consumption. 

Control Panel

The control panel is where you can find the majority of the differences between the C-Series blenders.  

The first changeable part of the control panel is the presence of a variable speed dial. 

This control allows you to select from 10 different speeds depending on the function that you want your Vitamix to perform. 

From chopping to grinding to liquifying, you are in control of what happens to your ingredients.  This feature is available on the 5200, 6500, and Pro 500 models. 

The 5200 has the added feature of being able to adjust the speed dial at any time, including while the Vitamix is already running. 

Another desirable feature of some of the C-Series models is the preset functions. 

Available on the Pro 500 and the 6500 models, the preset programs allow you to create perfect smoothies, soups, and frozen desserts and even set your machine to self-clean with the touch of a button. 

This is a great feature if you have a busy schedule and would like to be able to set your Vitamix running and leave it unattended while you complete other tasks around your home. 

It is also good for those who are new to making soups and dips in a blender and want some guidance on how they should turn out.

Which C-Series Model Is The Best?

Out of all of the C-Series models, both the 6500 and Pro 500 offer the widest range of functions. 

As mentioned above, the Pro 500 features a tall 64oz container, and the 6500 features a short 64oz container which means that you don’t have to give up functions if you are dependent on your Vitamix fitting in a certain space. 

The Pro 500 has the added benefit of being capable of making smaller portions without the purchase of an extra container which makes it the best option, provided you do not have space constraints. 

The cheapest model in the C-Series is the 5200.  If you are on a tight budget, this is the model for you. 

While it lacks preset functions, it still packs a punch in motor power and will still produce healthy smoothies, soups, and frozen desserts to help you improve your diet and wellbeing through food. 

Next Generation (G-Series)

As the name suggests, the Next Generation or G-Series is like the new and improved C-Series. 

Vitamix took the complaints and concerns about its classic blenders and improved them for the G-Series. 

The most common issues that were reported and rectified were the noise levels of the blenders, especially when used at the recommended high speeds, and the inconvenience of a blender that is too tall to fit on a kitchen counter beneath a cabinet. 

In their new range, Vitamix standardized the motors in their blenders to 2.2HP and introduced an airflow system that effectively cooled the motor. 

All blenders in the G-Series feature the short 64oz container and they were also able to reduce the noise levels of the blenders by 40%. 

In the interest of safety, Vitamix added a secondary power switch to help avoid accidental switch-on of the machine.  

Three models make up the G-Series.  The Professional Series 750, the 7500, and the 780. 

Since Vitamix standardized their motors and containers for the G-Series, the differences between the models fall into only two categories. 

Control Panel

While the control panels for the G-Series blenders are very similar and feature many of the same controls such as a start/stop switch, a ten-speed variable dial, and a pulse button, not all of the models feature preset programs.  

If preset programs are important to you in a blender, your best options are either the Pro 750 or the 780.

Control Interface

A new component added to the G-Series is the touchscreen control interface.  This is the first time that Vitamix introduced a touchscreen element to their blenders. 

The touchscreen interface not only provides a sleek new look to the blender but also allows for easy cleaning of the appliance.

A simple wipe clean is all that is necessary, without having to clean around small buttons and switches. 

If a touchscreen interface is important in your blender purchase, the 780 is the G-Series model for you.

Which G-Series Model Is The Best?

Out of the three models available in this series, the 780 and the Pro 750 are almost indistinguishable aside from the touchscreen of the 780 and the manual, physical controls of the Pro 750. 

The 780 model is the most expensive non-commercial Vitamix model available, exceeding the price point of even the newest models, making the Pro 750 the best option from the G-Series. 

If you do have your heart set on a touchscreen G-Series, there are plenty of refurbished options that are much more wallet-friendly and just as reliable as brand-new versions.

Smart System

As the name suggests, the Smart System range is the most advanced non-commercial line of blenders that Vitamix offers. 

The Smart System blenders take the powerful Legacy range motors and blending ability and combine them with new, user-friendly but modern technology and features that make them the cutting edge of domestic blenders once more. 

There are many features that are introduced in this range that do not feature in either the Legacy range or the Explorian range which we will talk about later.  

One of the most advanced features of the Smart System blenders is the Self-detect technology which allows the blender to identify which container is being used at the time and appropriately adjust program times and settings accordingly within the preset programs.

This feature ensures that your recipes yield consistent results no matter which container you are using. 

An added bonus of the smart detect containers is that they are the only containers from Vitamix that are dishwasher safe.

Another great feature of the Smart System range is its wireless or Bluetooth connectivity.  This feature allows you to use your blender via the free Vitamix Perfect Blend App. 

This is available with all of the blenders from both series within the range, including ones that do not contain preset programs. 

Other changes that have been introduced with the Smart System range include a timer display that counts during manual blends as well as preset blends and a new, clear plastic lid that snaps into place rather than locks into place.  

The Smart System range also comes with an incredible 10-year warranty.

There are two series within the Smart System range, both of which we will look at below. 

Ascent

The Ascent series is the cream of the crop in terms of blender technology, engineering, and design. 

It represents Vitamix reasserting itself as the brand leader of all domestic and commercial blenders.  There are four models within the Ascent series, the A2300, the A2500, the A3300, and the A3500.

As the motors and containers for the Ascent range are standardized across all four models, the differences can be split into two categories. 

Control Panel

As with the G-Series blenders, the Ascent blenders feature the same manual controls such as a pulse button, start/stop switch, and a ten-speed variable dial. 

However, only the A2500 and A3500 come with the preset program function. 

This is less of a concern considering that the Smart System blenders all feature Bluetooth connectivity that allows for presets to be utilized via the Perfect Blends App. 

However, if you are a fan of presets and don’t want to have to connect your phone every time you use your Vitamix, the models with built-in presets would be a better choice.

Control Interface

The other difference between the Ascent models is the control interface. 

The A2300 and A2500 feature the original, manual interface that is present on the majority of Vitamix products. 

This is a great choice if you prefer to interact with physical buttons and switches.  However, the A3300 and A3500 both feature a digital, touchscreen interface. 

This interface features a handy countdown timer for both preset blends and manual blends which can be great for ensuring consistency between manual blends. 

Which Ascent Model Is The Best?

The best Ascent model is also the best Vitamix model that is available on the market due to it being the most advanced range that they have released. 

The A3500 is the best model from this range, and by default, in all ranges offered by Vitamix. 

It is bestowed with all of the best available features of all ranges and if money is not an issue, it is the best blender you can buy.

However, The A2300 and the A2500 offer the advanced features of self-detect technology and wireless connectivity for those of you that are more budget-conscious but still want the cutting edge of domestic blender technology.

Venturist

The Venturist series is slightly different from all of the other series that Vitamix has released in that it was specifically designed and released for Costco customers. 

The Venturist series is a hybrid blender that mixes the advanced technology of the A2300 with the almost retro design of the G-Series. 

If you are the kind of person who longs for the simple days but loves technology, this is the Vitamix series for you. 

Within this series, there is only one model, the V1200.  This blender features the standard short 64oz self-detect container of the A2300, wireless connectivity capabilities, and a digital timer. 

Explorian

The Explorian range from Vitamix is the budget-friendly series offered by the brand. 

However, protecting your wallet does not mean skimping on features and functionality, after all, as we mentioned above, the main goal of Vitamix is to provide access to healthy eating to improve overall health. 

The Explorian range of blenders comes with the same functions and basic design as that of the Legacy range of blenders.

The Explorian series only contains two Vitamix models, the E310 and the E320. 

The E310 comes equipped with a smaller 48oz container which is perfect for individual servings and smoothie, soup, and dessert portions suitable for a medium-sized family. 

The E320 features a short 64oz container like some of the Legacy blenders which is great if you are going to be making larger batches of food in your Vitamix. 

Both of the Explorian blenders will fit comfortably underneath a standard kitchen cabinet.  So, what about the other differences between these blenders?

Container Size And Design

As mentioned above, the E310 and E320 come with different-sized containers with the former featuring a smaller volume capacity. 

However, that is not the only difference between these blender containers. 

The smaller container of the E310 features a blade that is 3 inches in diameter.  This is perfect for smaller households of 4 people or less, or for personal use only. 

The larger E320 container features a blade that is 4 inches in diameter which is capable of catering to households with more than 4 people. 

This is something to consider if you are planning on encouraging your entire family or household to embrace the Vitamix way of healthy eating.

Motor Size

Whereas the G-Series blenders featured standardized motor sizes, the Explorian range reverts back to the varying motor sizes of the C-Series. 

The smaller E310 features a 2HP motor, while the larger E320 features a 2.2HP motor. 

As discussed above, there is no discernable difference between the performance of these two motors in terms of the food that is prepared with them.  

Warranty

Vitamix offers very generous warranties with all of their non-commercial products, however, for some reason, the warranties of these two budget blenders vary. 

The smaller E310 comes with a warranty of 5 years, while the larger E320 comes with a tremendous 7-year warranty.

Which Explorian Model Is The Best?

While there is not much that separates the two blenders available in the Explorian range other than capacity, the E310 does offer better value for money.

The E310 is also the most budget-friendly option offered by Vitamix.  However, if capacity is essential for your household, the E320 is your best bet.  

Best Vitamix Models To Buy

Now that we have covered all of the Vitamix glass blender models, which is the best one to buy? 

The answer to that question largely depends on what it is that is most important to you when purchasing a blender. 

Below, we have rounded up our best picks into categories that are most likely to meet your needs or desires. 

Best All-rounder

The best all-rounder has to be the best of the best.  The A3500 is the ultimate in domestic blender technology and ability.  It also features the longest warranty of all Vitamix appliances. 

While it is one of the most expensive products that Vitamix sells, it is not overpriced by any means.  If the A3500 is within your budget, it really is the best blender that money can buy.

Best Feature-rich Classic

If you have no interest in the technological features of the Smart System blenders but still value the capabilities of your blender, the Pro 750 is your best bet. 

While it does not have all the bells and whistles of the Ascent or Venturist models, this Legacy range blender still packs a punch and will provide you with the same great smoothies, soups, and nut butter that the Smart System can. 

Best Budget Vitamix Blender

The obvious options for this category are the Explorian range of blenders. 

It is difficult to separate these two similar blenders to choose the best buy, it honestly comes down to how large your household is. 

However, the E320 does have a size advantage that can always come in handy. 

During the 7-year warranty that comes with this blender, your household could increase in size, or you might wish to cater to guests by whipping up a delicious soup in your Vitamix. 

In this case, you’re not going to suffer from that extra capacity.

Best Rated

The A2300 has the most to offer out of all of the Vitamix blenders. 

It may not be the most expensive or feature the touchscreen interface of other models in its range, but it is still incredibly versatile. 

From providing you with modern wireless connectivity and self-detect containers to maintaining the familiarity of the manual interface to fitting comfortably underneath a kitchen cabinet, you really can’t go wrong with this model. 

Best Value

It is difficult to decide which of the many Vitamix appliances offers the greatest value for money, however, the V1200 has to take the prize. 

Featuring all of the benefits of the advanced technology from the Ascent range, neatly packaged in the classic Legacy design, it appeals to everyone. 

Whether you are new to the Vitamix world and want to revel in the cutting edge of blending technology, or you are a long-time Vitamix customer who wants to upgrade without losing the familiarity of the product you have known and loved, the Venturist product has it all. 

If, however, you want a Vitamix that is good value for money but also has a modern look, the A2300 is a great choice. 

It has all the modern features of the Ascent series, as well as the sleek design, but is definitely not the most expensive in the range.

Final Thoughts

There are many different products available from Vitamix that all offer different things. 

The final decision in which blender you purchase often comes down to price point or value for money, however, that shouldn’t be an issue with this brand. 

No matter which Vitamix blender you choose, whether it is a brand new, top-of-the-range Ascent model, or a classic, no-frills Legacy model, the quality is still the same.  

With Vitamix, their focus really is still on how to help people to lead healthier lives with plant-based, whole food diets. 

This means that whether you have a tight budget or money is no object, you can be confident that you are getting a quality product that will make a difference to the nutritional value of your and your family’s diet and lifestyle.