Vitamix 5200 Blender vs Blendtec Designer 650 Blender

Buy the Vitamix 5200 if you want the most proven high-power blender and the longest warranty; its 7-year full coverage and huge owner base make it the safer long-term pick. Buy the Blendtec Designer 650 if you want more motor headroom, a bigger jar and preset programs that do the work for you. Both crush ice and frozen fruit well. Owners praise the Vitamix's build and simple speed dial but report it is loud and some units develop noise after a few years; the Blendtec's touchscreen and programs are easier for daily smoothies, though it has far fewer owner reviews to judge reliability by.

• Choose the Vitamix 5200 if you want a simple, proven blender with a long full warranty and precise manual speed control.
• Choose the Blendtec Designer 650 if you want a larger jar, a stronger motor and one-touch programs for smoothies and soup.