Finding the right immersion blender can be frustrating. Some are too weak to handle frozen ingredients, while others splash liquid everywhere, making a mess rather than blending efficiently. I’ve used my fair share of them, from cheap models that barely last a year to higher-end ones that promise a lot but deliver little.
When I came across the Vitamix Immersion Blender 5-Speed, I had high hopes. Vitamix is known for making some of the best blenders on the market, but does their immersion blender live up to the reputation? Is it really worth the investment, or is it just another overhyped kitchen gadget?
This review is my honest, hands-on experience with the Vitamix immersion blender after putting it through rigorous tests. I’ll break down its performance, durability, ease of use, and whether it’s worth buying over cheaper alternatives. If you’re considering adding this tool to your kitchen, keep reading—you’ll get all the details you need to make a confident decision.
First Impressions: Unboxing the Vitamix Immersion Blender
Right out of the box, the Vitamix Immersion Blender feels solid. Unlike the lightweight plastic models found in most kitchens, this one has a stainless steel blending shaft that immediately signals durability. It’s not just about looks—the sturdy build suggests it can handle heavy-duty blending without wearing out quickly.
What’s Inside the Box?
Vitamix keeps it simple:
- The immersion blender (with a detachable stainless steel blending arm)
- A user manual
No extra attachments. No storage case. Just the blender itself. Some might find this minimalistic, but for those who prefer quality over quantity, it makes sense. Instead of packing in lower-quality accessories, Vitamix focuses on delivering a high-performance immersion blender.
Weight and Ergonomics: Comfortable or Too Heavy?
Holding it for the first time, there’s an obvious difference in weight compared to budget blenders. It has some heft, but it’s well-balanced, preventing wrist strain during extended use. The ergonomic handle makes it easy to grip, and the buttons are positioned naturally for quick speed adjustments.
Some immersion blenders feel awkward to hold, either too bulky or too slippery. This one strikes a good balance—substantial enough to feel premium but not so heavy that it becomes tiring to use.
Build Quality: Cheap Plastic or Solid Metal?
The stainless steel blending arm is a major plus. Many immersion blenders use plastic parts that wear down over time, especially when blending hot soups. With this model, there’s no risk of plastic melting or cracking. The stainless steel blade guard also prevents scratching on nonstick pots, a thoughtful detail for those who cook often.
The power cord is 5 feet long, giving plenty of room to move around the kitchen. Unlike some cordless models, there’s no concern about battery life cutting blending short. While a cordless version might offer more convenience, a corded blender ensures consistent power, which is crucial for tougher ingredients like nuts or frozen fruit.
No Extra Accessories: A Missed Opportunity?
Many high-end immersion blenders come with attachments like whisks, blending jars, or food processor bowls. The Vitamix 5-Speed Immersion Blender doesn’t. For some, this might be disappointing, especially considering the price.
However, if you already own mixing bowls, measuring cups, or blending jars, it’s not a big deal. Vitamix seems to focus on keeping the device powerful and simple, rather than bundling in accessories that might not be used often.
Key Features of the Vitamix Immersion Blender
After getting a feel for the Vitamix stick Blender, the next thing that stands out is its performance-driven design. It’s not overloaded with gimmicky features—everything included serves a purpose. Let’s break down what makes this blender different and whether it lives up to the hype.
5-Speed Control: More Than Just a Gimmick?
Many handheld blenders come with just two speeds—low and high. That’s fine for basic tasks, but it doesn’t give much flexibility. The Vitamix 5-Speed Immersion Blender changes that with five speed settings, allowing precise control over blending texture.
For example:
- Low speeds are perfect for delicate jobs like emulsifying salad dressings or blending soft fruits into smoothies.
- Mid-range speeds work well for creamy soups or pancake batter.
- Higher speeds power through thicker ingredients like nut butters, hummus, or frozen fruit.
Instead of constantly pulsing and guessing, these settings let you blend exactly the way you need. Plus, switching speeds is seamless, thanks to the intuitive dial positioned right under your thumb. No awkward button placement or unnecessary fumbling.
Powerful 625-Watt Motor: Does It Really Matter?
At 625 watts, this motor is more powerful than most hand blenders, which usually hover around 200-400 watts. That extra power means:
✔ No stalling when blending thick mixtures like mashed potatoes or almond butter.
✔ Smooth consistency without chunks—even for fibrous vegetables like kale.
✔ Faster blending times, reducing strain on the motor and extending its lifespan.
A good test? Blending frozen fruit directly in a smoothie. Many lower-powered immersion blenders struggle, leaving icy chunks behind. This one blends everything smoothly without overheating or slowing down.
Stainless Steel Blending Arm: A Durable Choice
Instead of plastic, Vitamix uses a stainless steel blending arm—a major upgrade in durability. Plastic arms tend to warp over time, especially when blending hot liquids. Stainless steel not only lasts longer but also handles heat better, making this a great option for soups, stews, and sauces.
Blade Design: What’s Different?
The 4-pronged stainless steel blade is shaped to pull ingredients down efficiently, reducing splatter. Some stick blenders create a messy vortex, splashing ingredients everywhere. This design minimizes mess while blending smoothly.
A smart touch? The blade guard is designed to prevent scratching, so you can blend directly in nonstick pots or delicate mixing bowls without worrying about damage.
Long 5-Foot Cord: Is It an Issue?
Some people prefer cordless immersion blenders for convenience. However, corded models provide continuous power, which is essential for longer blending tasks. The 5-foot cord gives enough reach to move around comfortably, and it’s thick and well-insulated, meaning no worries about fraying or wear.
Would a cordless option be more convenient? Maybe. But for uninterrupted performance, a corded model ensures consistent power, especially for tougher blending tasks.
Performance Test: How Well Does It Blend?
Unboxing and specs are one thing, but does the Vitamix handheld Blender perform as promised? A blender can have all the right features on paper, but if it struggles in real-world use, what’s the point? So, I put it through a few tests—soups, smoothies, and even some tougher ingredients—to see how well it holds up.
Smoothies: Can It Handle Frozen Fruit?
A common problem with immersion blenders is their struggle with frozen fruit. Some leave behind chunks, while others overheat before finishing the job. With the Vitamix, I tossed in some frozen strawberries, bananas, and almond milk in a deep cup.
✔ Blends smoothly with no chunks—no need to pre-thaw the fruit.
✔ No overheating or stalling, even with thicker ingredients.
✔ Creamy texture in under 30 seconds—which is impressive for a handheld blender.
Most budget-friendly models either lack the power or take twice as long to get a drinkable consistency. This one powers through frozen ingredients without hesitation, making it a great choice for quick, hassle-free smoothies.
Soups: Does It Work with Hot Liquids?
One of the biggest perks of an immersion blender is the ability to blend hot soup directly in the pot—no need to transfer everything to a traditional blender. Some models struggle with heat, but since this one has a stainless steel blending arm, there’s no risk of plastic melting or warping.
Tested it on a pot of butternut squash soup:
✔ Blended everything into a silky smooth texture in about a minute.
✔ No splattering or mess, thanks to the blade guard design.
✔ Handled the heat perfectly, unlike plastic models that can sometimes absorb odors or stain.
The real standout here is the even consistency. Some blenders leave behind fibrous bits, but this one makes restaurant-quality smooth soups—no need to strain anything.
Nut Butter: Can It Handle Thick Ingredients?
This is where many immersion blenders fail. Making almond or peanut butter requires serious power, and most models just can’t keep up. The Vitamix 5-Speed stick Blender didn’t struggle but did require patience.
✔ Did it work? Yes, but it takes time.
✔ Consistency? Smooth, but needs stopping and stirring occasionally.
✔ Best approach? Use a deep, narrow container to keep the nuts from scattering.
For thick mixtures like nut butter, a countertop blender still works better. But for an immersion blender, it holds up surprisingly well—just expect a bit of manual effort.
Whipped Cream & Emulsions: Light and Airy?
Hand mixers are usually the go-to for whipped cream, but I wanted to see how this blender handled it. With just heavy cream and a touch of sugar, it took under a minute to turn into fluffy whipped cream. The multiple speed settings make it easy to control the texture, so you don’t over-whip and end up with butter.
Same goes for emulsions like homemade mayonnaise or vinaigrettes. The lower speed settings make it easy to slowly incorporate oil without breaking the emulsion. In short, it works just as well as a dedicated whisk attachment—even though it doesn’t come with one.
Mess Factor: Is It Easy to Use Without Splattering?
Some immersion blenders create a mini tornado in your bowl, flinging ingredients everywhere. That’s not the case here. The blade guard design keeps splatter to a minimum, and as long as you fully submerge the blender before turning it on, mess isn’t an issue.
Vitamix Handheld Blender vs. Other Brands
There are plenty of immersion blenders out there, so how does the Vitamix 5-Speed Immersion Blender stack up against the competition? Instead of just listing specs, let’s compare it to some of the most popular alternatives—both budget-friendly and high-end—to see where it stands.
Vitamix vs. KitchenAid 5-Speed Hand Blender
KitchenAid’s immersion blenders are a favorite among home cooks, so it’s a fair comparison. Both offer 5 speeds, stainless steel blending arms, and solid build quality, but there are some key differences:
✔ Power: Vitamix wins. At 625 watts, it’s significantly stronger than KitchenAid’s 200-250 watt motors. More power means smoother blends, especially with tough ingredients.
✔ Blade Design: Vitamix’s 4-pronged stainless steel blade blends more efficiently, while KitchenAid uses a 2-pronged blade that can take longer.
✔ Accessories: KitchenAid offers more attachments, including a whisk and a chopper. If you want an all-in-one tool, KitchenAid might be better, but for pure blending power, Vitamix pulls ahead.
Vitamix vs. Breville Control Grip
Breville’s Control Grip Immersion Blender is another premium choice that comes with a whisk and chopping bowl. It’s often praised for its ergonomic design, but how does it compare?
✔ Grip & Comfort: Breville has a more contoured, soft-touch handle, making it slightly more comfortable for extended use.
✔ Blending Power: Vitamix still wins here, especially with frozen ingredients or thick soups. The Breville (280W) motor just doesn’t match Vitamix’s 625W power.
✔ Control & Speed: Both offer multiple speeds, but Vitamix’s dial control is easier to adjust while blending.
Vitamix vs. Budget Options (Cuisinart & Mueller Austria)
Budget immersion blenders like the Cuisinart Smart Stick or Mueller Austria Ultra-Stick are tempting because they’re affordable and get the job done for basic blending. But here’s where they fall short:
✔ Durability: Many budget models have plastic shafts that stain, warp, or break over time. Vitamix uses stainless steel for better longevity.
✔ Power & Speed: Most budget options max out at 200-300 watts, meaning slower blending and chunkier results.
✔ Hot Liquids: Some lower-end blenders struggle with soups, either because of weaker motors or plastic parts that can’t handle heat.
Who Should Consider Other Brands?
While the Vitamix handheld Blender is excellent, it’s not for everyone. If you’re looking for:
- A budget-friendly option for simple tasks → A Cuisinart or Mueller model might be enough.
- More attachments (whisk, chopper, etc.) → KitchenAid or Breville offer better value.
- A super lightweight option → Some lower-powered models weigh less and may be easier for long blending sessions.
Why Vitamix Stands Out
What makes the Vitamix different is its raw power, durability, and precision. If you frequently make smoothies, soups, or sauces and want something that will last for years, it’s worth the investment.
Ease of Use & Cleaning: How Practical Is It?
A kitchen tool can be powerful, but if it’s frustrating to use and clean, it ends up sitting in a drawer. The Vitamix 5-Speed Immersion Blender promises convenience, but does it deliver?
Handling & Comfort: Is It Easy to Hold?
Some immersion blenders feel awkward, especially if they’re too heavy or have uncomfortable grips. The Vitamix blender has a stainless steel body, so it’s a bit heavier than plastic models, but the weight is well-balanced.
✔ Comfortable grip—the handle has a slight contour, making it easy to hold even during long blending sessions.
✔ Not too heavy—at about 2.86 lbs, it’s sturdy but not tiring to use.
✔ One-handed operation—speed adjustments can be made while blending, thanks to the intuitive controls.
Some blenders have awkward button placements that require constant pressure to keep them running. Thankfully, Vitamix’s design allows for a more relaxed grip without straining your hand.
Cord Length & Flexibility: Enough Room to Move?
One often-overlooked detail is cord length. A short cord means being stuck near an outlet, which can be annoying. The Vitamix Immersion Blender has a 5-foot cord, giving plenty of flexibility to move around the kitchen.
This might not seem like a big deal, but if you’ve ever struggled with a short, stiff cord while blending a deep pot of soup, you know how important it is.
Cleaning: How Easy Is It to Wash?
One of the best parts of an immersion blender is the quick cleanup compared to traditional blenders. With Vitamix, cleaning is straightforward:
✔ Detachable blending arm—just twist it off and rinse.
✔ Stainless steel blade & shaft—no plastic parts that stain or absorb odors.
✔ Quick rinse method—blend warm, soapy water for 10 seconds, rinse, and you’re done.
Unlike some models that have small crevices where food gets stuck, the Vitamix has a smooth, easy-to-wipe design. No need to scrub for minutes or disassemble multiple parts.
Storage: Does It Take Up Too Much Space?
Unlike countertop blenders, immersion blenders take up very little space. Since this model doesn’t come with extra attachments, it’s even easier to store. A simple drawer or utensil holder is enough.
What about wall mounts or stands? Unlike some brands that include storage stands, Vitamix doesn’t offer one. If you prefer a dedicated storage spot, you might need to get creative with hooks or a custom holder.
Pros & Cons: The Honest Breakdown
Every product has its strengths and weaknesses, and the Vitamix 5-Speed Immersion Blender is no exception. Let’s break it down honestly, so you can decide whether it’s the right fit for you.
What’s Great About It?
✔ Powerful Motor (625W) – Handles everything from soups to frozen fruits with ease. No struggling with chunky textures.
✔ 5-Speed Control – Allows for precise blending, whether you need a gentle mix or full power.
✔ Durable Stainless Steel Build – No cheap plastic parts that warp or stain over time. Feels solid in hand.
✔ Easy to Clean – Rinse the detachable blending arm under warm water or blend soapy water for quick cleanup.
✔ Long Cord (5 ft.) – Gives more flexibility in the kitchen compared to short-cord models.
✔ Minimal Storage Space Needed – No bulky attachments, just the blending arm and motor unit.
Where It Falls Short
✘ No Additional Attachments – Unlike some competitors, Vitamix doesn’t include a whisk or chopper attachment. If you want a multi-purpose tool, this might not be ideal.
✘ Heavier Than Some Models – At 2.86 lbs, it’s not the lightest immersion blender. Some users might prefer a lighter option for extended use.
✘ No Storage Stand or Case – Some brands include a stand or wall mount for easy storage, but Vitamix does not.
✘ Higher Price – It’s an investment. If you only need an immersion blender for occasional use, a budget model might be enough.
Who Is This Blender Best For?
✔ Frequent home cooks who need a powerful and reliable immersion blender
✔ Anyone making soups, sauces, or smoothies regularly
✔ People who prefer durable, long-lasting kitchen tools over cheaper alternatives
✔ Those who don’t mind paying a bit more for quality
It might not be the best choice if you rarely blend anything, need multiple attachments, or prefer a lightweight model.