The best blenders in the US: five favorites for smoothies, soups and frozen drinks

A great blender is a kitchen workhouse – I tested nine including the Vitamix and Breville for budget, size, mulch factor and speed

• In the UK? Check out our top-rated blenders here

There are few breakfasts that feel as healthy and refreshing as the ever-mutable smoothie. You can make them virtuous, with lots of greens and nut milk, or luscious, with full-fat dairy and cocoa powder – but in order to make a good one, you need a really good blender.

And while smoothies are the classic use for a blender, these appliances can do so much more; a truly great blender is a kitchen workhorse that can make your morning smoothie, your afternoon dip, your evening soup and even a frozen drink if you’re feeling frisky.

Best overall:
Vitamix 5200
_{$499.95 at Vitamix}

Best budget blender:
Breville Fresh & Furious
_{$186 at Amazon}

Best personal blender:
The Beast Mega 1200 Plus
_{$219 at Beast}

Best blender for smoothies on the go:
Nutribullet Pro 900
_{$89.19 at Amazon}

Best blender for the plastic-averse:
Oster Classic Series Heritage Blender with 6-Cup Glass Jar
_{$99.99 at Walmart}