How to Choose the Right Blender for Your Recipe

There are many different types of blenders on the market today. There is a huge variety of distinct designs and functions. There is everything from small personal blenders that are portable and can be used for travel to all-in-one machines that claim to be able to replace food processors. With such a large array of choices, selecting which blender will work best for you can make your head spin.

Getting started

The best way to approach buying a new blender is to first decide what, exactly, you plan on using it for, then find a blender that specializes in that specific thing. Also, you may need to consider you price range. Are you willing shell out the money for an expensive, stainless steel all-in-one, or should you go with the basic model that gets the job done?

Types

The two primary types of blenders on the market are countertop blenders and handheld immersion blenders.

Countertop Blenders

Countertop blenders are the classic type of blender we all think of when we think of a blender. These blenders generally have three different types of containers to choose from.

• Plastic containers. These are lighter and less likely than glass break when dropped. However, the plastic can get more scratched over time and it also absorbs more stains and odors.
• Glass containers. These are more stable and easier to clean. They're less likely to scratch and will look better over time. They can, however, break or crack when dropped.
• Stainless steel containers. Stainless steel containers seems like they could be the best of both worlds. They won't easily scratch or retain odors, nor will they break or crack when dropped. The primary downside to these is that they aren't transparent, which can become an issue if you would like to see the contents of the container while you are blending.

Handheld or Immersion Blenders

Handheld blenders are small appliances that are meant to blend food by being immersed in it, similar to a cake mixer.These can be handy for mixing food inside of the container it's being cooked in. It can blend vegetables for soup and fruit for smoothies. Generally, these appliances come with several different attachments that can be used for a variety of different tasks. However, they tend to be limited in their abilities and aren't meant to be a replacement for a countertop blender.

Features

• Controls. there are several different types of control options. Each one has its own advantages and disadvantages. · Digital. Digital buttons, with their flat surface, are generally easier to clean. Also, they can be programmable making them more tailored to your usage. However, sometimes you may have to press buttons twice in order to do what you need to do. · Push button. Usually, push button controls can switch speeds faster than other options. Also, many have a tactile-satisfying click when you press them. They are harder to clean, though. · Dial. Dial buttons take longer to change speeds because you must go through all the settings to reach the one you desire, but they're easier to clean than push button controls. · Switches. Switch controls allow you to change the setting fast, however, they generally only offer two or three speeds.
• Attached Blade. an attached blade can offer more stability, but many times they make the container harder to clean.
• Speeds. Most blenders have at least 3 speeds, and some blenders have up to 16 speeds. After getting to about a dozen or so, it gets harder to distinguish one speed setting from another.
• Wattage. Higher power blenders can have up to 1000 watts. Basic models tend to be closer to 300 watts. More power doesn't always mean better performance, however. Some lower wattage blenders blend smoother than high power ones.
• Markings. Big, distinct measurement markings on the container are great for older people or people with poor vision.
• Container Size and opening. A wide opening makes cleaning and putting food in easier. Also, small personal size containers may be better suited for those drink a lot of smoothies and travel a lot.

Brands Names

Some brands specialize in certain price ranges. Others offer products from basic to premium models. Oster, Waring and Hamilton Beach are the leading countertop brands in terms of market share. Other brands include Omega, Ninja, Proctor-Silex, Vita-Mix, KitchenAid, Cuisinart, Black and Decker, Breville and Blendtec.