Best Countertop Blender 2021: Your Ultimate Guide to Smart Blending

Stepping into the kitchen to whip up a nutritious smoothie, a comforting hot soup, or a vibrant sauce often starts with one essential appliance: the countertop blender. In 2021, the market for these culinary workhorses was buzzing with innovation, offering more power, smarter features, and sleek designs than ever before. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just beginning your healthy eating journey, finding the Best Countertop Blender 2021 meant navigating a landscape of options designed to transform your daily meals and drinks.

Countertop blenders are more than just smoothie makers; they are versatile kitchen companions capable of handling a wide array of tasks. From pulverizing ice for frozen cocktails to grinding nuts into creamy butter and even heating soups through friction, these machines have become indispensable. Understanding their capabilities is the first step towards making an intelligent buying decision that truly elevates your culinary experience.

Understanding the World of Countertop Blenders

At its core, a countertop blender features a powerful motor base, a sturdy blending jar with blades at the bottom, and a lid. But the simplicity ends there! These appliances come in various forms, each tailored for different needs.

Popular Types of Countertop Blenders

• Traditional Blenders: These are your everyday workhorses, great for general blending tasks like smoothies, milkshakes, and light sauces. They typically have moderate motor power and a range of speed settings.
• High-Performance Blenders: Often referred to as “professional-grade,” these blenders boast robust motors (1400 watts or more) and can tackle the toughest ingredients, from frozen fruits and ice to dense nuts and fibrous vegetables, with exceptional smoothness. Brands like Vitamix and Blendtec dominate this category.
• Personal Blenders: Compact and designed for single servings, personal blenders are perfect for busy individuals who want to blend and go. They often come with travel-friendly cups that double as blending jars. Nutribullet Pro 900 was a popular choice in this segment.
• Blender/Food Processor Combos: For those with limited counter space, some blenders offer interchangeable attachments that allow them to function as both a blender and a food processor, providing incredible versatility.

Our Picks for the Best Countertop Blender in 2026 As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Num	Product	Action
1	nutribullet Full-Size Blender Combo 1200W – NBF50500 - Dark Gray
2	BLACK+DECKER PowerCrush Multi-Function Blender with 6-Cup Glass Jar, 4 Speed Settings, Silver
3	Blender for Smoothies 64 oz Capacity Countertop Blenders for Kitchen Powerful Smoothie Blender with BPA Free Container, Ice Crushing, Frozen Drinks, Puree, Protein Shakes,Dishwasher Safe
4	Oster® Classic Series 8-Speed Blender with 6-Cup Glass Jar, Gray
5	Blender, 68Oz. Countertop Blenders with 20Oz. Grinder, 28000 RPM Kitchen Blender for Smoothies, Ice Crushing, Frozen Fruits, Self-Cleaning, Speed Adjustable
6	Blenders for Kitchen Powerful 1800 Watt Motor Smoothie Blender 70 Oz Large Capacity and BPA-Free Containers with To Go Cup, Countertop Blender for Smoothies, Ice Crushing & Frozen Drinks
7	Aeitto Blenders for Kitchen with 68Oz. Jar, 1800W Max Power Smoothie Blender, 3 Preset Programs & 7 Speeds, Professional Countertop Blender for Smoothies, Ice Crush, Frozen Drinks, Silver
8	BLACK+DECKER Countertop Blender with 6-Cup Glass Jar, 10-Speed Settings, Black, BL2010BG
9	Hamilton Beach Power Elite Wave Action Blender For Smoothies, 40 Oz Glass Jar, 12 Functions Including Puree, Crush Ice, 700 Watts - Black (58148A)
10	Ninja BN701 Professional Plus Blender, 1400 Peak Watts, 3 Functions for Smoothies, Frozen Drinks & Ice Cream with Auto IQ, 72-oz.* Total Crushing Pitcher & Lid, Dark Grey

Essential Features and Advanced Technologies

The technology in countertop blenders saw significant advancements in 2021, moving beyond just simple on/off switches. Here’s a look at the features that define a top-tier blender:

Motor Power: The Heart of Your Blender

The wattage or horsepower (HP) of a blender’s motor is a crucial indicator of its performance. While basic models might offer 300-600 watts for soft fruits and purees, high-performance blenders often start at 1,400 watts and can reach up to 3.5 horsepower. A robust motor ensures efficient blending, preventing the machine from bogging down when faced with challenging ingredients like ice or hard nuts.

Blade Technology: Precision and Durability

The blades are the unsung heroes, responsible for breaking down ingredients. Look for blenders with strong, corrosion-resistant, multi-tiered stainless steel blades. Some advanced designs feature serrated or unique configurations that optimize ingredient circulation, ensuring a smoother consistency and preventing chunks from being left behind.

Speed Settings and Presets: Tailored Blending

Modern blenders offer a variety of speed settings, typically ranging from 5 to 10 options, along with a pulse function for bursts of power and coarse chopping. Many high-performance models in 2021 also came with intuitive preset programs for common tasks such as “smoothie,” “ice crush,” “hot soup,” or “dips and spreads.” These presets often adjust blending time and speed automatically, taking the guesswork out of achieving perfect results.

Jar Material and Capacity: Fit for Your Lifestyle

Blender jars are typically made from glass, plastic, or stainless steel.

• Glass jars are hygienic, don’t absorb odors, and are durable, though they can be heavy and prone to breakage if dropped.
• Plastic jars (ideally BPA-free) are lightweight and shatter-resistant but may scratch over time or absorb odors.
• Stainless steel jars offer superior durability and hygiene, often found in professional-grade models.

Capacity is equally important, ranging from smaller 20-ounce personal cups for individual servings to large 64-90 ounce jars ideal for family meals or meal prepping.

Smart Technology and Controls: Blending into the Future

In 2021, smart features started becoming more prominent. Many high-performance blenders featured touchscreens and digital timers. Some even included sensors that could detect ingredient consistency and adjust power accordingly, protecting the motor from overheating and ensuring consistent results. App integration for remote control and pre-programmed recipes, and even voice control via smart assistants, were emerging innovations.

Noise Reduction: A Quieter Kitchen Experience

Let’s face it, blenders can be loud! Recognizing this, manufacturers began incorporating noise reduction features. Some models utilize soundproof covers, thick BPA-free polycarbonate jars, and low-vibration motors to significantly reduce operational noise, making early morning smoothie preparation less disruptive.

Built-in Heating Functions: Beyond Cold Blending

A fascinating feature in advanced blenders is the ability to create hot soups right in the jar. This is achieved either through a dedicated heating element or by harnessing the friction generated by incredibly high-speed blades. This means you can add raw ingredients and have a piping hot, silky-smooth soup in minutes.

Self-Cleaning: Convenience at Your Fingertips

Cleaning can be a chore, but many countertop blenders simplify this with self-cleaning programs. Typically, you just add warm water and a drop of dish soap, then run the cycle. This helps keep blades sharp and prevents food from drying and sticking, ensuring your blender is always ready for its next task.

How to Choose the Best Countertop Blender for You

Selecting the perfect blender boils down to understanding your priorities and how it will fit into your daily life.

Matching Features to Blending Priorities

• For Smoothies and Shakes: Focus on motor power (at least 1000 watts), sharp stainless steel blades, and dedicated smoothie presets for consistently smooth results.
• For Crushing Ice: A high-powered motor (1400W+) and robust blades are essential to avoid chunky ice or overworking the motor. Look for blenders specifically praised for ice-crushing performance.
• For Hot Soups and Sauces: Consider models with built-in heating functions or those known for generating enough friction to heat ingredients. Variable speed control is crucial for achieving desired textures in sauces.
• For Nut Butters and Dips: You’ll need a very powerful motor and a sturdy jar, often with a tamper tool to help push down thick ingredients towards the blades. High-performance blenders excel here.

Balancing Budget, Space, and Usage

• Budget: Blenders range from under $100 for basic models to $600+ for high-end, professional-grade machines. Determine what you’re willing to invest, but remember that durability often comes with a higher price tag.
• Kitchen Space: Countertop blenders vary in size. If you have limited counter or storage space, consider a more compact full-sized model or a personal blender.
• Frequency of Use: If you blend daily, investing in a durable, high-performance model with easy cleaning features will pay off. For occasional use, a mid-range or budget-friendly option might suffice.

As culinary expert Dr. Evelyn Reed often advises, “The ‘best’ blender isn’t about the most expensive, but the one that truly fits your lifestyle and culinary ambitions. Evaluate your needs, and let the machine empower your kitchen creativity.”

Tips for Optimal Use and Maintenance

To get the most out of your countertop blender and ensure its longevity, here are some practical tips:

• Load Ingredients Correctly: Always add liquids first, followed by soft ingredients (spinach, yogurt), then harder ingredients (frozen fruit, ice), and finally, dry ingredients or powders. This helps the blades catch and pull ingredients down efficiently.
• Don’t Overfill: Respect the “max fill” line on your jar to prevent leaks and ensure optimal blending performance.
• Use the Tamper (if provided): For thick mixtures like nut butters or hummus, a tamper can help push ingredients into the blades without stopping the machine, creating a smoother consistency.
• Clean Immediately: Rinse your blender jar and blades immediately after use. For tougher jobs, utilize the self-cleaning function by adding warm water and a drop of soap.
• Check Blades: Periodically inspect your blades for any damage or dullness, as sharp blades are key to efficient blending.

Top Countertop Blender Brands and Models of 2021

While the blender market is always evolving, certain brands consistently delivered top-tier performance in 2021, and their legacy models continue to be benchmarks.

• Vitamix: Often considered the gold standard, Vitamix blenders like the Propel Series 750, 5200, and E310 Explorian were lauded for their exceptional power, durability, and ability to create ultra-smooth results for everything from smoothies to hot soups. Their variable speed control and robust build made them a favorite among professionals and home cooks.
• Blendtec: Known for its powerful motors and unique blunt blade design, Blendtec models like the Blendtec Total Classic and Stealth (Professional 800) were top contenders for their versatility in handling a wide range of ingredients, including ice and nuts, with impressive efficiency.
• Ninja: Offering great value and innovative designs, Ninja blenders such as the Ninja Professional Plus Kitchen System and Ninja Detect Duo were popular for their strong ice-crushing capabilities and often came with convenient personal blending cups or food processor attachments. The Nutri-Blender Plus was a strong personal blender option.
• Breville: The Breville Fresh & Furious was highly praised in 2021 for its balance of performance and price, especially for smoothies and pureeing tasks. Its “Super Q” model also stood out for its quieter operation.
• Nutribullet: While primarily known for personal blenders, the Nutribullet Pro 900 remained a top pick for quick, nutritious single-serving smoothies, easily pulverizing tough ingredients like kale and frozen fruit.
• KitchenAid: The KitchenAid K400 was recognized for its powerful motor, particularly effective at crushing ice and blending thick ingredients effortlessly, often with dishwasher-safe pitchers for easy cleanup.
• Oster: The Oster 1500 Watt Extreme Mix Blender offered excellent value with a powerful motor suitable for many blending tasks, including unique pulse settings for salsa.

Delicious Recipes and Everyday Applications

Your countertop blender unlocks a world of culinary possibilities. Here are just a few ideas to get you started:

• Energizing Smoothies: Blend fresh or frozen fruits, leafy greens, protein powder, and liquid for a quick, nutrient-packed meal or snack.
• Creamy Soups: Use your blender to create velvety-smooth vegetable soups, either by blending cooked ingredients or, with models featuring heating functions, by starting from scratch in the jar.
• Homemade Nut Butters: Transform roasted peanuts, almonds, or cashews into fresh, preservative-free nut butter with a high-powered blender.
• Frozen Desserts: Craft healthy “nice creams” from frozen bananas or decadent milkshakes.
• Perfect Sauces and Dips: From fresh pesto to smooth hummus and robust marinara sauces, your blender makes light work of emulsifying and pureeing.
• Refreshing Cocktails: Crushing ice and mixing ingredients for margaritas, daiquiris, and piña coladas is a breeze.

Frequently Asked Questions About Countertop Blenders

Q: What is the ideal wattage for a good countertop blender?

A: For basic tasks, 600-800 watts is sufficient, but for tough ingredients like ice and nuts, look for 1000 watts or more. High-performance models often exceed 1400 watts.

Q: Can I put hot liquids in my blender?

A: While some blenders (especially high-performance ones) are designed to handle hot liquids, always check your manufacturer’s instructions. Many traditional blenders advise against it due to pressure buildup. Look for models with venting lids if you plan to blend hot ingredients regularly.

Q: Is a glass jar better than a plastic one?

A: Glass jars are often preferred for hygiene and resistance to odors and scratches, but they are heavier and more fragile. BPA-free plastic jars are lighter and more shatter-resistant, making them practical for everyday use.

Q: How do I clean my blender easily?

A: Many blenders feature a self-cleaning cycle: simply fill the jar halfway with warm water, add a drop of dish soap, and run the blender for 30-60 seconds. For models without this feature, hand wash with soap and water immediately after use.

Q: Are preset programs really necessary?

A: Presets offer convenience and consistent results for common tasks like smoothies or crushing ice, especially for beginners. However, experienced users might prefer manual variable speed controls for more precise customization.

Elevate Your Kitchen with the Best Countertop Blender

The best countertop blender 2021 was defined by a blend of power, innovative features, and user-friendly design, catering to every culinary aspiration. From the unparalleled strength of a Vitamix to the smart versatility of a Ninja, these machines empower you to create healthier, more delicious meals and drinks with ease. By considering your specific needs for power, capacity, and smart features, you can confidently choose a countertop blender that will be a cherished and hardworking appliance in your kitchen for years to come. Investing in the right blender isn’t just buying an appliance; it’s investing in a healthier, more creative culinary lifestyle.