Blenders are great multifunctional kitchen appliances that can quickly mix up varied foods and liquids like smoothies, shakes, salad dressings or soups. Further, several blender models can also double as food processors, cutting vegetables or grating cheese. Lastly, in contrast to a food processor, blenders are good at chopping ice for adult beverages.

What will you use a blender for? What would you like to make with a blender? Before reviewing and comparing blenders, consider these questions and blender product features in order to find the best blender for you.

• Review your blender wants and needs - How do you plan to use your blender? The answer to this question helps decide the blender you ultimately buy. For example, are you buying a blender to make margaritas or daiquiris? If so, you will want a blender that chops ice well.
• Blender Power - The higher the blender’s watts, the more powerful the blender will be. Chopping ice? Making smoothies and margaritas? You will want a blender with at least 350 watts of power.
• Blender Blade Speeds – Blender power is more important than blender blade speed. Most users, experts and reviews say that three blender speeds are enough. You do not really need 10 different speeds. A fast, medium and slow speed, along with a pulse option, will suffice.
• The Blender Blade – If possible, buy a blender that has a removable blade. This makes cleaning the blade substantially easier.
• Blender pulse - Blenders with pulse buttons move their blades, and blend, in short bursts. A pulse feature can be used for crushing ice and can prevent overmixing or overprocessing.
• Blender Capacity - Most blenders range in size from 4 to 8 cups or 32 to 64 ounces. If possible, buy a larger blender. More space is better than less and you do not want your blender overflowing.
• Blender Design – Many people leave their blenders out on kitchen counters. If so, make sure you are happy with the design and contours of your blender.
• Blender Container Materials – Slightly tapered blender containers or jars help funnel the food or liquids down to the blades helping achieve a uniform blend and mix. Glass and stainless steel containers tend to be the best choices when buying a blender. Glass allows you to see what you are blending. Stainless steel looks good and does not break. Plastic jars can scratch after repeated use.

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Published 1/30/2010 12:00:00 AM

Tags: Blender Product Features