Vitamix E320 vs 5200: Which One Should You Choose?

If you’re looking for a powerful, long-lasting blender, Vitamix is a brand that stands out. But with multiple models available, choosing the right one can be challenging.

The Vitamix E320 and Vitamix 5200 are two of the most talked-about models, both capable of handling everything from silky smoothies to hot soups. But they’re designed for different users. The E320 is a newer, budget-friendly model with a more powerful motor, while the 5200 is a premium classic known for its precision blending.

Which one is right for you? This detailed comparison will break down every feature, helping you make the best decision.

Key Differences Between Vitamix E320 and 5200

Choosing between the Vitamix E320 and Vitamix 5200 comes down to power, design, blending efficiency, and price. While both models deliver exceptional performance, they cater to different needs. Here’s a quick breakdown of their main differences:

How These Differences Impact Your Choice

1. Blending Power: The E320’s 2.2 HP motor provides extra force, which makes it better for tougher ingredients like frozen fruits, nuts, and thick smoothies. The 5200’s 2.0 HP motor is slightly less powerful but more precise, leading to a smoother blending result over time.
2. Container Design: The E320’s low-profile container makes it easier to store, but its wider base means you may need to use more liquid to blend efficiently. The 5200’s tall container creates a better vortex, making it ideal for smaller batches and smoother textures.
3. Blade Size & Efficiency: The E320’s larger 4-inch blades allow for quicker blending, while the 5200’s 3-inch blades are designed to pull ingredients down more efficiently for ultra-smooth blends.
4. Control Options: The E320 includes a Pulse feature, which is useful for chopping vegetables or making chunky salsas. The 5200 lacks a Pulse button, requiring manual speed adjustments for similar effects.
5. Noise Levels: The E320 is louder, which is expected with a more powerful motor. The 5200 is quieter, making it a better choice for those who blend early in the morning or in shared spaces.
6. Price Consideration: The E320 is more budget-friendly, making it a great choice if you want high power without the premium price tag. The 5200 costs more, but its refined blending experience and longstanding reputation may justify the extra cost for some users.

Takeaway: Which Blender Stands Out?

• If power, affordability, and storage space matter most → The E320 is the better choice.
• If you prefer quieter operation, a better vortex, and smoother results → The 5200 is worth considering.

Since your choice depends on how you blend and what you prioritize, let’s take a closer look at their build quality to see how each fits into your kitchen.

Vitamix E320 vs 5200: Design and Build Quality

Both the Vitamix E320 and Vitamix 5200 have a durable, high-performance design, but their build quality differs in ways that affect ease of use, storage, and blending efficiency.

1. Size and Dimensions: Which One Fits Better?

• Vitamix E320:
  • 17 inches tall, 8 inches wide, 11 inches deep
  • Fits under most kitchen cabinets
  • More compact but wider
• Vitamix 5200:
  • 20.5 inches tall, 7.25 inches wide, 8.75 inches deep
  • Taller design may not fit under cabinets
  • More narrow base

The E320’s shorter height makes it easier to store in smaller kitchens, but its wider base requires more counter space. The 5200’s taller design can be a challenge for storage but takes up less horizontal space on the counter.

2. Material and Durability: How Sturdy Are They?

• Both blenders feature a high-quality plastic base with a metal drive system, ensuring long-lasting performance.
• Their containers are made of BPA-free Tritan plastic, which is shatter-resistant and lightweight.
• The E320’s wider base adds extra stability when blending at high speeds, while the 5200’s narrower base may require you to hold it steady when handling thicker mixtures.

3. Aesthetic and Control Panel Design

• Vitamix E320: Modern, minimalist black base with simple controls.
• Vitamix 5200: Classic tall base with a professional, industrial look.

The E320’s Pulse function is a major advantage for users who like quick bursts of power when making chunky salsas, nut butters, or soups. The 5200 lacks a dedicated Pulse button, requiring manual speed adjustments instead.

Takeaway: Which One is Better in Design?

• E320 is better for smaller kitchens due to its shorter height and wider base, but it takes up more counter space.
• 5200 offers a classic, professional look, but its tall container may not fit under cabinets.
• E320’s Pulse function gives it a usability advantage, making it easier for chopping and precise blending.

If storage and modern features matter, the E320 is the better pick. If you prefer a sleek, professional design and don’t mind the taller size, the 5200 remains a strong choice.

Now, let’s compare motor power and performance to see which one delivers better blending results.

Motor Power and Performance: Which One Blends Better?

The Vitamix E320 and Vitamix 5200 both deliver exceptional blending power, but their motor strength and performance set them apart. If you’re blending tough ingredients like frozen fruit, nuts, or thick smoothies, the difference in motor power can impact speed, consistency, and overall blending experience.

1. Motor Power: Which One Packs More Strength?

• Vitamix E320: 2.2 HP motor (stronger and faster)
• Vitamix 5200: 2.0 HP motor (precise and controlled)

The E320 has a slightly more powerful motor (2.2 HP vs. 2.0 HP), which means it can handle harder ingredients more efficiently. If you frequently make nut butters, frozen desserts, or thick dough, the extra power of the E320 helps reduce blending time.

However, the 5200’s motor is optimized for smoother blending, ensuring a consistent texture even at lower speeds. It’s an excellent choice for making soups, sauces, and silky smoothies without over-processing.

2. Overheating Protection and Cooling System

Both blenders come with a radial cooling fan and thermal protection system, preventing the motor from overheating during extended use. However, due to its slightly more powerful motor, the E320 may generate more heat over time when blending thick mixtures.

3. Blending Performance: How Well Do They Process Ingredients?

• E320: Better for fast, efficient blending of tougher ingredients.
• 5200: More precise, ideal for achieving the smoothest textures.

4. Noise Level: Which One is Quieter?

• E320 is slightly louder due to its higher motor power.
• 5200 operates more quietly, making it a better choice for early-morning or late-night blending.

Takeaway: Which One Performs Better?

• If you prioritize power and faster blending for thick, tough ingredients, the Vitamix E320 wins.
• If you prefer a quieter, smoother blending experience, the Vitamix 5200 is a better fit.

Now, let’s see how their container designs impact usability and blending efficiency.

Container Differences: Capacity, Material, and Ease of Use

The Vitamix E320 and Vitamix 5200 both come with 64-ounce BPA-free containers, but their design differences affect blending performance, ease of use, and storage. Choosing the right container can impact how well the blender handles different ingredients and how convenient it is in your kitchen.

1. Container Shape and Size: Which One is More User-Friendly?

• The E320’s low-profile container is shorter and wider, making it easier to store in kitchen cabinets. However, its wider base requires more liquid for proper blending, which may not be ideal for small servings.
• The 5200’s tall and narrow container is great for creating a strong vortex, pulling ingredients down for smoother blends. However, its height may make storage challenging.

2. Blade Size and Performance

• E320: 4-inch blades, which cover a larger surface area, making it ideal for faster blending and thicker mixtures like nut butters and dough.
• 5200: 3-inch blades, which are optimized for a stronger vortex, creating super-smooth textures for soups, dressings, and smoothies.

Both use hardened stainless steel blades, ensuring durability and precise blending over time.

3. Ease of Cleaning: Which One is More Convenient?

• Both containers are self-cleaning—just add warm water and a drop of soap, then blend on high for 30–60 seconds.
• The E320’s wider base makes it easier to clean manually, while the 5200’s narrow container may require extra effort to reach the bottom.

4. Handling and Pouring

• E320’s wider spout makes it easier to pour thick blends like hummus or nut butter without spills.
• 5200’s narrow spout is better for precise pouring, reducing mess when serving soups or dressings.

Takeaway: Which Container Works Best?

• If you want a compact, easy-to-store container with a wider base for thick blends, the E320’s low-profile design is better.
• If you prefer a tall container that creates a strong vortex for ultra-smooth blends, the 5200’s classic container is a better choice.

Now, let’s break down control options and ease of use to see which blender offers a more intuitive experience.

Control Options and Ease of Use: Simplicity vs. Versatility

A blender’s controls can make or break the blending experience. The Vitamix E320 and Vitamix 5200 have similar speed dials, but small differences affect convenience, versatility, and how easily you can achieve your desired texture.

1. Control Panel: Which One is More User-Friendly?

• E320: More convenient with a dedicated Pulse button, which helps create chunky textures for salsas, nut butters, and thick recipes without manually adjusting the speed dial.
• 5200: No Pulse button—requires gradual speed adjustments instead, which can be trickier for beginners.

2. Speed Control: Precision or Power?

Both blenders have 10 variable speed settings, allowing precise control over blending textures. However, the 5200 requires a bit more manual effort since it lacks a Pulse function.

• The E320’s Pulse feature is a major advantage for recipes that require quick bursts of power, like chopping vegetables or crushing ice without over-blending.
• The 5200 offers smoother transitions between speeds, making it ideal for silky smoothies and soups.

3. Learning Curve: Which One is Easier to Use?

• E320 is easier for beginners due to its simple Pulse function and intuitive controls.
• 5200 requires a bit more skill to master, especially for users who frequently adjust speeds manually.

4. Pre-Programmed Settings: Do They Have Any?

Neither model comes with pre-programmed blending cycles (like the Vitamix A3500), meaning you have to adjust speeds manually.

Takeaway: Which One Offers Better Control?

• If you prefer a simple, user-friendly blender with a dedicated Pulse button, the E320 is the better choice.
• If you enjoy precise manual speed control for ultra-smooth blending, the 5200 offers a more refined experience.

Now, let’s compare price and value for money to determine which blender offers the best deal.

Price and Value: Which One is Worth the Investment?

When choosing between the Vitamix E320 and Vitamix 5200, price is a key factor. While both models deliver premium performance, their cost varies based on features, durability, and long-term value. Understanding what you get for your money helps determine which one offers the best deal for your needs.

1. Price Comparison: Which One Costs More?

• The E320 is generally more affordable, making it a great option for budget-conscious buyers who still want high performance.
• The 5200 is priced higher, reflecting its classic design and precision blending capabilities.

2. Warranty and Durability: Which One Lasts Longer?

• E320: 7-year warranty (standard Vitamix coverage).
• 5200: 7-year warranty (same coverage as E320).

Both blenders offer exceptional durability, with powerful motors and high-quality materials built to last a decade or more with proper care.

3. Is the Higher Price of the 5200 Justified?

The 5200 costs more mainly due to its classic design, premium motor, and ultra-smooth blending performance. If you’re looking for silky textures and don’t mind manual speed adjustments, the price may be justified.

However, the E320 offers nearly the same power and functionality for less, with the added convenience of a Pulse button and a more compact container.

Takeaway: Which One Offers Better Value?

• If you want a budget-friendly Vitamix with powerful performance, the E320 is the smarter investment.
• If you prioritize ultra-smooth blending and don’t mind paying extra, the 5200 delivers premium results.

Now, let’s wrap it all up and help you decide which blender is right for you.

Final Verdict: Which Vitamix Should You Buy?

Both the Vitamix E320 and Vitamix 5200 offer powerful blending, durable construction, and long-term reliability, but their differences in design, controls, and price make each one better suited for different users.

Who Should Choose the Vitamix E320?

✅ You want a more affordable option without sacrificing power.
✅ You prefer a low-profile container that fits under kitchen cabinets.
✅ You need a Pulse button for better control over chunky blends.
✅ You want a wider base for thick mixtures like nut butters and dough.

Who Should Choose the Vitamix 5200?

✅ You want the smoothest blends possible with a stronger vortex.
✅ You don’t mind manual speed adjustments instead of a Pulse button.
✅ You often blend small batches that work better in a narrow container.
✅ You value the classic Vitamix design with a taller container.

The Best Choice for Most People

For most users, the Vitamix E320 offers better value with its lower price, user-friendly controls, and compact design. The Pulse button alone makes it a more versatile choice for those who frequently switch between smooth and chunky blends.

However, if you’re a serious smoothie enthusiast who prioritizes ultra-smooth textures and doesn’t mind the taller container, the Vitamix 5200 is still a solid choice—but it comes at a higher cost.

Final Recommendation

• Choose the Vitamix E320 for better value, easier storage, and convenient controls.
• Choose the Vitamix 5200 if you’re willing to pay extra for premium smoothness and a classic design.

Both models are built to last, so whichever one you choose, you’re investing in a high-performance blender that will serve you for years. Make your decision based on your blending needs and budget.