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Benchtop blenders sit on the bench while in use and plug into the wall socket. They have a base, jug and lid, and sometimes a spout where you can feed in ingredients without having to open the lid.
The range of available functions varies across different brands and price points, so if you are going to be using one regularly for preparing meals for your family, you should look for a model that can not only blend but can also chop and dice like a food processor.
Rather than a unit that sits on your bench, a stick blender features a handheld device that you use to mix ingredients in a pot or bowl. Some stick models come with versatile accessories so you can knead bread or whisk cream with ease. It's an alternative to a benchtop model if you only need to use it on occasion and for smaller blending tasks.
It is worthwhile spending a little extra money for comfort. An ergonomic handle makes a stick blender more comfortable to use, especially over long periods of time.
To avoid ingredients splashing out of the bowl or saucepan, look for a stick models with an open-foot design.
Like the sound of fresh juice every morning? Check out our juicer buying guide.
When shopping for a blender, consider the following factors to help you compare models and make the right decision. Also, take a look at our round-up of the best blenders.
There is a big difference between the lower end models and the higher end. You can find budget blenders for as little as $50, with more expensive models reaching well over $1,000. The more you pay, the higher the wattage, the more functions and the more advanced technology you'll get.
If you are using a blender all the time, it may be practical to keep it out on the benchtop. But if you are only going to be using it from time to time, look for a compact model suitable for easy storage. It should also be lightweight so you can easily lift and carry it.
The jug capacity determines how much you can blend. If you are a single-person household, a smaller 600ml jug may suffice, whereas someone who cooks a lot for the family will do better with a larger 1.5- or 2-litre pitcher.
Some blenders are more complicated than others, so if you are looking for ease of use, it's better to stick to a model that has an on/off switch and speed settings of low, high and pulse for when you want to mix in short bursts. Those that are more advanced in the kitchen may prefer one that has up to 16 speed settings to cover a multitude of ingredients and dishes.
The higher the wattage that a blender has, the more powerful it is. Most blenders fall in the range of 100 to 2,500 watts. Models that sit around 500-800 are suitable for blending soft foods and soups, while higher wattages models can crush ice and hard foods. However, just because it has a high wattage, doesn't mean that it's the best. The number of blades and setting options, also determine the overall performance.
Plastic jugs are lighter to carry but are susceptible to staining. If you prefer to have plastic, make sure it's BPA-free. Choosing a glass jug means no stains, but it adds extra weight to the blender and also breaks easily if you happen to drop it.
If you have a dishwasher, look for a dishwasher-safe jug that can fit inside the racks. If you prefer to wash by hand, a jug that has removable blades will make the cleaning process much easier. Some models have an automatic cleaning function.
Having measurement markers on the side of the jug helps when pouring out liquids rather than having to use a separate measuring jug.
Some high-end models come with a heating element, so you can prepare meals such as soup from start to finish.
