This content initially appeared on Mashable for a US audience and has been modified for the UK audience.

It may surprise cocktail enthusiasts, but blenders serve purposes beyond just creating frozen margaritas. They can also contribute to a healthier lifestyle. Surprising, isn’t it?

You can create hot soup without a stove, brew coffee without a coffee maker, and whip cream without a whisk. That’s just a glimpse of what a versatile blender can handle. In fact, a blender can significantly enhance your culinary variety without requiring a plethora of kitchen-gobbling appliances. It’s a remarkable all-in-one solution.

But how do you begin when it comes to selecting a blender? Each model presents its own array of features, meaning different ones will cater to varying blending requirements. So unless you’re a blending aficionado, sorting through the options can be quite challenging. That’s where we come in. Here’s some valuable information along with a curated list of the finest blenders available at present.

Are a blender and a food processor the same?

Typically, blenders are designed for liquids — juices, smoothies, shakes, soups, and purées — while food processors handle slicing, chopping, grating, shredding, and dicing. However, certain blenders offer attachments, such as removable food mixing bowls, enabling them to function as a blender/food processor hybrid.

What makes a blender essential?

The capability to prepare your own juices, smoothies, and protein shakes isn’t the sole reason to purchase a blender. These machines can also facilitate the formation of healthy habits. Blenders streamline meeting your nutritional objectives by compressing everything into a 30-second meal alternative. With a plethora of recipes available online, you’re sure to discover a nutritious combination of greens and fruits that you’ll actually enjoy consuming.

Being in full control of the ingredients allows you to closely monitor portion sizes, adhere to dietary restrictions, and track macronutrients to maintain your diet goals. You’ll never have to purchase exorbitantly priced juices again.

Do blenders come with smart features?

Blenders can range from basic to highly advanced based on your budget. There are straightforward models that cost very little and just feature an on/off switch, or technologically advanced blenders that sync with an app via Bluetooth. These applications may offer recipes or keep track of your nutritional or health objectives. Other features worth noting include pre-set blending programs tailored specifically for making soups, smoothies, or frozen treats. Some blenders can detect the load automatically and adjust their motors and settings accordingly.

What is the ideal capacity for a blender?

The capacity of blenders can differ. There are personal-use blenders with containers suitable for one person (approximately 700ml), and multi-serve blenders with much larger containers (2 litres or more). However, many blenders include varying container sizes, enabling you to switch as needed. We particularly prefer blenders that come with a sports bottle attachment, allowing you to create a smoothie or juice. Just detach the bottle, secure a lid, and you’re ready to go.

What is the top blender?

That’s up to you to determine. We can’t make that choice for you. That’s essentially the beauty of a blender — you know the flavors you enjoy, and you can blend your smoothie or meal just the way you like it. The same applies to selecting the machine. It must align with your needs, routine, and kitchen space. However, we can compile a list of the finest blenders for all, assisting you in discovering the perfect one for you.

These are the top blenders in 2025.