VitaMix Blender, is it worth it?

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I am researching into the Vitamix blender, is it really worth it? I do currently own a regular blender and also a juicer. But was interested in making fruit/veggie drinks, but wasn't sure if it's worth the money. If so, which model is worth investing in?

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We have had the Vita-Mix Super 5000 for 2+ years, and use it at least twice daily. We got the 32oz compact container, which is ample for us. Love it- much more powerful than our old blenders.

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I got a Vita-Mix for a juice bar I owned in '97. Since the bar closed I have used it daily and went so far as getting the dry goods container and make my own flour. It is by far the best blender out there.

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Vanity-

Look for the blender marked "VitaPrep." It has an adjustable blade speed controller on the front so you can start off slow and go to full-speed. Much more versatile than the standard VitaMix.

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It's a $500 blender -- what am I missing? 

I will say that it has one thing going for it, it is cheaper than a Kirby vacuum cleaner or a set of Regal Ware.

Like Kirby and Regal Ware, I am certain that it is awesome machine. I am sure some couldn't imagine life without it. I am sure I would save my money.

If you can't figure out why their marketing tactics might bother you, I have some ShamWows to sell you!

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I gave one of these to my husband about 6 years ago as a birthday present. He is the king of the frozen cocktail, and the Vita Mix is so far superior to any other blender in getting the perfect "slushy" consistency. The pesto in it turns out creamy, & there is almost nothing that the belender can't do to perfection. Is it worth the money? It would depend on how you view it: we'd rather spend our money on a piece of equipment like this than dining out at mediocre restaurants. So we eat at home a lot and use our money to buy kitchen appliances that give us pleasure since they do their jobs so efficiently.

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In considering what you said your use for the blender is: fruit/veggie drinks, I would say no the VitaMix blender is not worth it at $500. I'm sure it does its job and has a great motor and can pulverize things like avocado like it claims. One of my friends does have one. But is that really what you need?

Personally, I've been extremely happy with my hand blender. I also own a juicer and I find it more convienent to juice it in the juicer, dump my fruit in the vegetable juice, then whip out the hand blender and mix everything in the 1 jug. It has been much easier to clean the head of the hand blender than my jug blender plus the juicer's jug. (I don't have a dishwasher.) I've also used my hand blender for puree hot soups in the pot rather than pouring it in the jug, and the food processor attachment for small tasks, like mincing shallots, garlics, nuts, etc.

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I hear what everyone else is saying, but here are my two cents:

First, unlike most everything else out there, it is made in the US, from start to finish, and I value our tradesmen. As such, I feel that alone makes the case. That said, my wife and I use it every day. We grind grain to make flour, make peanut butter, almond butter, etc., smoothies, various soups, creams, etc...

We spent money once, and we are enjoying the ease with which this machine does everything.

If you can afford to spend the money, and care about supporting workers in this country, you should get it, and I promise you will not be sorry. If you feel you will need it once every two weeks or so, forget it, you can get something for far less, and will likely still find it suitable.

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On a slightly different note....everytime my SO sees the Vitamix demo at Costco she's trying to talk me into buying one and I have to come up with every exucse not to get one. 

Avoided getting one for her birthday and Christmas.....looking ahead to Mother's Day. 

We have a hand mixer, blenders-Osterizer and Hamilton Beach (we don't even use them), Cuisinart food processor, Kitchen Aid mixer.......don't need another appliance.

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Does anyone have experience grinding spices in a Vita-Mix? Does it need the dry blade? Does it scuff up the container? Am I better off using a blade-type coffee grinder?

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I have diabetes, I have known about it for about 2 years. I’m still in my 20’s, and I knew I needed to start eating better. I also felt the whole thing of you going to your doctor he/she tells you that you have diabetes or something like that then says “here take these pills for the rest of your life. See you every 3-6 months,” was kind of fishy. I started to do some research, and found many articles/papers/and blogs that support this theory of replacing processed foods, and man made fats with whole food as away of reversing diabetes naturally. I don’t know if I truly believe all the details of this, but it makes no since not to try it, and it gave me hope. And again, I don’t know about you but to me it seems strange that every time a doctor finds something wrong with you, they try to stick you on a pill or a group of pills to control “it” which you have to take for the rest of your life, not to mention these drugs of very, very bad documented side affects some including death! 
The problem with this new healthy life I was an barking on is one eating heath is very expensive, or as I like to say “expensive for no reason.” Two neither my wife nor me can cook, and we have a bad habit of just grabbing something on the way to where ever we are going. 
I watched this documentary called “The Beautiful Truth,” which left me wanting a juicer. I went to work and a friend of mine recommended a “Vita-mix,” because it blends whole foods, allowing you to get all the fiber among other things.
After a week I ordered one; the reverb’ed one which was $379, I had it shipped two day shipping. I got it today, and low and behold it doesn’t work! As you know I was very pissed the hell off! It feels like I’m the only one that had problems out of the box. I called Vita-mix, and the lady said she will ship me a label to ship it back, and once it’s in route, they will overnight me a new one. Which was fine at the time, I guess because I felt that maybe I can get it working, or something; but after fooling with it for a while I learned that wouldn’t be the case which made me even more upset. So I called them again, and spoke to a supervisor, I explained to her that I took off work today, went to a farmers market got some fresh fruit waited on the UPS man, only to realize the unit had a broken motor. She said she could overnight the shipping label, but the only problem is the mailroom was closed so it would ship out tomorrow and I should get it Friday. I would then have to turn around and ship this one back in order to have a new one shipped to me, she credited my back my shipping and gave me an extra year of warranty. I guess that’s the best she could do. 
I have to wait tell sometime next week to give my review of it (to see if it’s worth all the money I spent on it).

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has anyone using a vitamix made small amounts of chutneys? the reps say the vitamix can blend amts less than 5 oz! i have a hard time believing that! i'm looking for a blender that can say make a chutney out of peanuts and cilantro, but a bunch of cilantro really only makes about 1 cup. pls help me decide!

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I was rteading reviews on the VitaMix (don't recall which model) and a surprising percentage of reviewers said it leaked- like nearly half of the reviews.

Do any of you Vitamix owners out there have any insight as to what the deal is with the leaking? I've never even touched one (but boy would I ever like to)- the leaking thing put me off a little.

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I purchased a reconditioned Vita-Mix 5200 this past Fall. I use it at least twice a day on average, and I have lost 20 pounds. For me, it was totally worth it and then some.

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I'd love a VitaMix. Has anyone seen one for less than $1000 in Australia? Don't think hubby will be too thrilled with me forking out that much.

Would we need a food processor also? We want to do a lot of raw food "cooking". So would need to crush up nuts and make nut cream/milk etc. Is the VitaMix enough?

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My Kitche aid blender does fine. Im not sure if it will heat stuff up though. Also, never tried "ice cream". What ingredients would I use to make "vegan ice cream"

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I've been wanting a Vitamix or something similar for sometime now, and I just came across a used Montell Williams Health Master approximately 7mo. old (so I'm assuming it's a newer model) for a price of $75.00. Does anyone have experience with one of these and do they perform well? I have a friend who has a Vitamix and loves it but right now the price is a bit too high for me. However, I want something I can use often, performs well, and will last, as my Son and I want to start eating healthier and I know this is a great way to go. Right now we do smoothies but my blender (which is a good one) doesn't have near the capabilities that these machines do.

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Hi! After breaking my Cuisinart blender 6 months ago I've been debating a Vitamix myself and finally took the plunge. I just purchased the Vitamix Professional CIA series (1363 model number, platinum color) from Bed, Bath & Beyond. (20% off coupon and hassle free returns a bonus). My grandmother bought her Vitamix in the 70s and our family is still using it. These are incredible machines worth every penny and I love it that the new models are clear. 

ps. I made a roasted eggplant and tomato soup today which was fantastic. Tomorrow morning I'll test it out for a spinach smoothie.... :)

I also have a juicer (Champion model) which i love but its a hassle to clean so I'm going to experiment with using the Vitamix and cheesecloth/nut milk bag to drain out the pulp.

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I had mine for a long enough time after buying it at a price I could not resist. Wanted it cause I was gonna be a juicer. After trying to ask for any and all help with how to clean that thing (not only did nothing work but no advice worked either) I put it up on the community mailbox with a sign, take it free. As you would assume it was gone by next day.

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I have an old vitamix 4000 that I've used for over a decade and it still works great. I had a friend who bought a less expensive brand that purported to do the same thing and it leaked oil in her food. I would love to buy the newer ones that look like blenders, but this one still works so well. It was definately a great investment.

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I have a Vita Mix question. I saw an old model at a flea market for sale dir $75. It looked to be at least 30 years old. There was another guy looking at it already and he tested it (plugged it in and turned it on) and bought it. The question I have is if given the opportunity, should I purchase such an old Vita Mix? Would it have enough life left in it to warrant purchasing it?

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Is it worth it? We shall see. A 5200 hit my door step today
I'll report my findings

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It occurred to me to mention that our VitaMix 5000 gets used much more, almost daily, now that it resides on the counter. That became possible when I bot a 32 oz. pitcher. Three things happened. 1. The shorter pitcher allows the base with the pitcher on top to fit under the cabinets. 2. The base doesn't have to be moved to use the blender. 3. As an added bonus, the new top has "ears" that make it much easier to remove. I thought this was worth comment.

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Just took our Vitamix blender out of box. My wife's Naturopath suggested the machine. Question: How much of the vitamine and mineral supplements do you think she can substitute by using the Vitamine blender? She is now taking large amount of "pills" to supplement her immunce system. I am going to try to lose weight with the help of this machine.

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I know this is a pretty old post... But being that I've had my vitamix a year now, I must admit it is the best blender I've ever had the pleasure to own. I was contemplating getting the BlendTec, but after thorough research I am much happier with my vitamix. 

ATTENTION: If you are in the market for a blender, go to Vitamix.com, and buy the Factory Reconditioned 5200. That's what I did and it saved me a boat load of money, same great product, same great warranty, same whole foods recipe book, new 64 oz. BPA-free container, new lid & tamper, ... and guess what...$70 CHEAPER(not including the extra sales tax & delivery fees+$25 surcharge you pay for through william sonoma)! 
Oh wait! Better yet, call in your order and ask to use the 3-payment plan option and order it sooner than you thought.

LINK TO RE-FURBISHED UNIT:
https://secure.vitamix.com/acb/stores/4/Factory-Reconditioned-Vitamix-Full-7-Year-Warranty-P2142C119.aspx

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Is the 5200 really better than the 5000? QVC has a special today: Vitamix 5000 which includes a dry container and free shipping for $446.
The Vitamix Super 5200 is listed at $549.
I haven't heard of any features of the 5200 that are worth the additional $103.

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I have had mine for 13 years - use it all the time - and love it!

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I have a question, I've been told that it can be a food processor as well as a blender. Now , I don't want puree all the time, so does it come with attachments, or how does this work? Thanks

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Amazon seems to have the best range of these.

http://astore.amazon.com/vtmx-20

Beware if buying from 240 volt countries like Australia and New Zealand that they are NOT cheaper after you consider that you would need a very large transformer to reduce the power and still keep enough current to run the mixer. $400+

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NOooooooo

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I went with the vita prep. It has a larger motor than some of the other vita mixes. Anything you can do with a blender you can do with this professional grade appliance. If you are serious about cooking it is a serious tool and serious tools are expensive in any trade. Yes I would buy it again without regret. You don't really buy a vita prep, you invest in one. Want proof? Once you own one you will start noticing them in restaurant kitchens, and bars where they run them hard every day.

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No

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YES !!!

I bought a vitaprep 2years ago for under $400 from commercial restaurant vendor on Ebay. Not sure how I lived with out it. I use it everyday. I just made super smooth hummus in my vitamix. 

I got mad love for my Vitamix.

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Yes, its a hefty investment, but its a great tool. I use mine daily for breakfast, and also use it tons for soups.

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For those still considering a VitaMix, I learned 2 techniques and 2 critical differences over the last year or so. I started with a 20+ year old Osterizer with 16 speeds. When I first started looking at a VitaMix, I read everything - including the manual. My old blender went from a really pain, and nearly useless, to efficient and easy to use. The 2 techniques I started using were to put liquids in the bottom, then continue with softest to hardest ingredients; and second, start on low speed and move all the way up to high. It suddenly became pretty rare to glob up the blender when making stuff.

The two critical differences I've encountered are dealing with fibrous greens and completeness of "the smooth." Where the motor really came into play was when I started making green smoothies on a daily basis. My wife had bought me a Cuisinart smoothie maker in hopes of making my Osterizer go away; the problem was that when I used fibrous greens (chard, kale, dandelions, etc) in brought the Cuisinart to its knees; the Osterizer pulled through, but with heavy loads it was straining. The final difference was smoothness. The Osterizer just can't get the blackberry seeds to disappear, can't completely liquify a lime peel (though the resultant size is negligible), and can't completely eradicate the green pieces - this gives the smoothy a chewy character. Not bad, but not smooth.

There are a bunch of things that the Vita-Mix can do that the Osterizer simply can't, but those have been well covered here. So stretch your blender until you can move up, then move.

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The way I describe the VitaMix to people is to try and imagine a table saw motor with a blender on top, and you have it. I have a 5000 that's about eight years old and still going strong. I'm happy that I have one but don't think I'd spend the same money again. I'm not a professional chef and use mine only for making soup bases, chipping ice and some juicing. The latter is really euphemistic because it's not "juicing" in the strict sense of the word. Pureeing is really what it is, albeit pureeing on steroids.

What really bothers me about VitaMix is that when you need a part, they're going to well and truly gaff you on the price. The idea of paying $150. for a 32oz "dry" container is outrageous. You'd have to make ALLOT of flour to recoup that cost in savings over buying flour from the market. So too, you'll have to use the VitaMix allot to make up for the initial price hit. Yes, it's a very capable blender. That said, I've an Oster, glass container blender that's probably 30 years old that still crushes ice, can whip up a puree with ease and you could probably buy used for less than ten bucks. I'm just saying...

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I don't personally have a VitaMix Blender, but my parents do and they swear by it. They absolutely love it. I have seen it in action and it seems to be of very high quality. I would definitely consider it as an option.

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Hi, I definitely think buying a Vitamix is worth it! I don't know what got into me to buy one because at the time it was extremely expensive for me but now after using it everyday I can say it is the best buy I have ever made! I make my own raw foods and drinks, own peanut/almond butter. Apple sauce, cole slaw and much more. It's fun and healthy.

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They are pretty awesome, and I have years of "fair" experience to prove it. My family is kind of obsessed with them. I turned one down as a shower present from my mom and sister in lieu of another gift and Mr. JudiAU is still annoyed.

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I've had several Oster blenders over the past 35 years, and they were fine, as far as they could go. Had been researching "super blenders" as my diet became rawer and greener, and although after comparing them,I was sold on the VitaMix, but still found the price a bit daunting. Finally broke down and bought a reconditioned 5200 from the company. Best thing I ever did! I use it several times a day; in the morning I make smoothies and green drinks, and in the evenings, I do everything from creamy, non-dairy salad dressings to soups to correcting gravy mistakes. For years, I've ground raw oats into a powder and used it for everything from facials and body scrubs to thickeners for non-dairy smoothies. My other blenders gave me cornmeal consistency oats. With VitaMix, I get cake flour consistency. For folks who want to make their own nut butters, this is a dream come true. Haven't used it for pesto; still like the consistency I get with my Cuisinart. But I love what it does to hummus! The rawer my diet becomes, the more I find other uses for my VitaMix. I don't regret having purchased it at all.

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Purchased the newly redesigned Vitamix Pro 750 from Williams-Sonoma this month. I'm in love! That says it all.

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Yes. As I learn how to live on a Raw diet, I am becoming increasingly aware that a commercial grade blender will give better results. My vote is Yes but not necessarily this brand. I want a Semak VCE1500 from Australia but then I digress.

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Everyone always talks about spinach or tofu smoothies in a Vitamix. ;-)

Okay, what's the most unhealthy and delicious food you can make in a Vitamix.

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I am also looking into purchasing the Vitamix for health reasons. I am a cancer patient and looking at all the benefits of adding more fruits and vegetables in the diet. I'm wondering about how it works for the pizza dough. We make own pizza using a bread machine every week. Can't decide between the refurbished 5200 or the other package with the dry pitcher. Any suggestions?

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YES! YES! YES!After 40 years of buying blenders, I am done. It does what no other imitator can do. I actually watched side bye comparisons on you tube with Vitamix & it;s 2 competitors. Evaeyone in my extended family is buying a Vitamix.

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I got a reconditioned 5200 and it's been going strong for at least 5 years and probably longer. Have to check my records. I still use it more than any of my other appliances. I'm a believer! In case you didn't know and are are a big box shopper, Costco has been carrying them for a while now. At least you can get a live demo and some points back on your purchase!

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I recently used the VitaMix regular blade and container to grind rice flour from uncooked white rice. Worked great to make a cup of rice flour to use in making the crusty coating for Dutch Crunch bread (Tiger bread). Another use for my VitaMix.

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Depends where you live. I'm in Australia, and Vitamix costs $800-$900. After researching all possible alternatives, I ended up getting a Froothie Optimum 9400... great blender with a more powerful motor and speed than the Vitamix. Then again, you can get Vitamix in the States for $500, cheaper than my Optimum. Love my blender, no regrets, does literally everything a Vitamix does

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My family is also considering one of these after seeing the live soup demo at Costco. Is it really as easy as if look, preparing fresh hot vegetable soup like that?

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My Vitamix is 22 years old and still chugging along just fine. I use it several times a week. I certainly consider it a worthwhile purchase. I got the top of the line at the time and it was relatively expensive -something like $380. For 22 years of continuous use with no repairs - that is a really good deal in my book.

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If it was a month ago I would have been singing its praises for all the abilities of the 750. However, since then we had a little accident. I decided to take our 'baby' on a week long camping trip. Notice that I said it was going to be a week long!
Anyway, we used it in our camper and on the last day a huge storm was heading to the area so we decided to pack up and head home. In all the mayhem, I put the VitaMix on the floor of the camper between some heavy items hoping it would not move. It didn't move but something fell on it breaking the start/stop switch. After my heart sank, I called the company and since the blender is still under warranty( 7 yrs) there were no questions asked. They sent me the ups label, fixed it and sent it back. It was painless. 
Yes! It is worth it!

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Where can you find some of the Vitamix demo recipes that really show what it can do? Show demonstrators seem to have unique demo recipes that are not in the standard recipe books. Would a demo person care to share some?

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I got the 6300. I like the pre-set options so I can multi-task, especially in the morning. 
I was making almond butter in my as I have many times, and somehow the heat managed to distort the dry container and chew up the tamper. I called vitamix and they are sending me a replacement container, and tamper. No problem at all! It was the easiest warrenty issue resolution I've encountered. I was recommending Vitamix before, but now even more so!

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I finally splurged on a Vitamix 5200 from Costco and I never knew it was possible to love a kitchen appliance so much. 

I love doing blended soups, and always used my immersion blender before. The texture of soups blended in the Vitamix are amazing; silky smooth and almost glossy looking. I did a corn soup and there wasn't a single hint of corn silk or skin left behind. I no longer peel most thin-skinned veggies for soup (carrots, beets, etc) since the Vitamix obliterates them easily.

Hummus is a dream to make, because you no longer need to buy tahini. Just put in whole sesame seeds and you'll never know the difference. Same goes with the seeds in fruits like lemons, apples or berries.

I probably use my Vitamix 3-4 times a week, sometimes more. IMO, it was worth every penny.

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It is definitely worth every penny. I have even made banana "ice cream" in the vitamix just from blending frozen bananas. It was as smooth and creamy as soft serve ice cream1

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Vitamix is the most overpriced, over pushed blender on the market.
I have used my $60 Hamilton Beach for over 15 years making smoothies 3-4 times per week plus hundreds of other mixes. I have not found anything that the Vitamix does that the HB can't. 
I have changed blades several times, but that is routine with any equipment. My blades cost $16. Vitamix - $60+ and last no longer.

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The vitamix is a very good blender the vita mix service is very poor , i needed a replacement pusher and I have been on the line for more than 2 hours

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I also bought the $40 bullet from costco for mixing frozen blended drinks for smoothies , very quick clean up and easy to use the vitamix top has always been a struggle , it will blend anything though

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http://www.containerbladerecall.com/ProductEntry.aspx

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It comes down to what you want. Many of the comments are from people who can't justify the price. After many years of being in that place, I finally bought one. It is well worth the price. Clean up is easy. Don't have to take it apart and risk cutting my fingers on the blades. Have both wet and dry and each offers different values. People seem to be complaining about the lid. Snaps on easy, fits tight, and because it does, must use a little more strength to remove. We have fingers and thumbs, so should've be a problem. My only complaint, is, I leave the lid off when not in use to fit under my counter. Dry container fits perfect. I called Vitamix when I received mine a few weeks ago, and got through without issue. I am sure some people have had a wait, but I doubt hours. I researched the values of the vitamix against my Hamilton Beach, which is replaced every couple of years, along with a Ninja, Blendtec, etc. read Consumer Research reviews, etc before purchasing the Vitamix. I even bought my daughter and daughter-in-law each one two years ago. It was on their must have lists. Both are professional chefs. BUT, I just stall at buying one for myself. Price was always the issue. I bit the bullet and finally bought one from Costco.com. I did compare prices from Vitamix, QVC, etc before I purchased from Costco. It is worth every penny. Does much more than just blend and liquidfy. I have made soups. No muss, no fuss. Check the cookbook out. Holds more than my Hamilton Beach, 68 ounces verses 40 ounces. Time, unbelievable. I can do a frozen drink in seconds verses minutes, with turning the HB'S off and on to make sure all ice is crushed.

It all comes down to what you want and if you are willing to invest. Twenty (20) plus years, at about $460 verses 2 years at $50 every 2 years.

It is an investment, but much more. It is an essential work horse.

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Definitely worth it...I bought my son a VitaMix approximately six years ago. He uses it daily; once, twice, and on occasion a third time. He loves using it, and it does everything but wash itself! My son repeatedly tells me that it is the best gift that I ever bought for him. I bought it at Costco. I believe last year he had a bit of a problem with a part, VitaMix company responded immediately and graciously, sent him a new part without an issue, or cost! You can take it from this comment...and know that this is a great company and product!

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No, it is not!!! I was making soup on it and I have a bad burning in my arms....

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Yes! My wife and I asked the same questions when we were deciding whether to buy one. We have had one for about 3 years and have used it daily since the day we bought it.

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hi, in the same boat here. Want to get one, and was looking at the super 1380's on ebay. but i want a 5000 model. also, im concerned bout the amperage, i dont have circuit breakers, only fuses. what is a super 1380 anyways?

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What is the difference between the Vitamix Professional Series and teh 5200 standard? Is it worth additional $149?

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so they all make soup? as in cook soup?

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I can our own foods. I always hated doing tomatoes, they usually come in at the hottest part of the year, then you have to seed and peel them, so much work! This year a friend loaned me her Vita-mix and told me all I had to do is pluck the stem off the tomatoes and drop them in whole in the Vita-mix. I was skeptical....But WOW!!! It was a joy to make sauce and puree this year, my dread of tomatoes has disappeared.
I was so impressed I told my husband that I wanted a Vita-mix for my birthday (I've always been against appliances for gifts). 
I just got it and now I'm doing pumpkins, so easy to make puree!
I'm hooked, I LOVE my VITA-MIX! 
We are big soup eaters, can't wait to try all the recipes I've seen. 
So, yes, it is well worth every penny.

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HI! I Am considering a vita mix blender and am not sure what model will work best for what I want to do....I am a big juicer but would love to add carrots, pineapple, apples ect with peel core and everything in a blender and have it come out as though i juiced it. Will a vita mix blender do that for me? When I juice I lose the fiber so I want to try the blender instead. Also, has anyone kneeded bread in one of these juicers? I was told by someone that you could.... A model number of what would work best for me would be much appreciated!

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For me I have the Oster Beehive with the six blade attachment. Build quality is not as good as older Osters, but works fine for my needs. I try not to ask too much from a Blender. I feel like Blenders are for basic blending, Juicers are for extracting juice and Food processors do food processing. I think the masticating(slow juicers) are the best for extracting juice. They also work to homogenize stuff and you can make soups sauces nut butter etc. These days it seems like people just want to toss anything into a blender and get complete liquefaction. I prefer the gentler extraction method of slow juicers.

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Yes! I was dubious at first but decided to go for it. I am NOT sorry at all and wish I got it sooner. It is super fast and makes silky purees, soups, smoothies, etc. from all foods. I've used it for chopping as well but I would not say the results are uniform. It is fast and easy, so if you are not looking for perfect cuts, it is helpful. 

Models? I found it helpful to have the pre-sets when I was learning how to best use it. Now that I am confident with it, I see they are not needed - just nice to have. Get them if you have the budget.

I would not hesitate one minute. I plan to give them as a gift when my kids get their own homes.

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Mousse-y soups...sounds like they might be too thick. Try adding more liquid. Also, if a blend gets too airy or frothy, you can let it run a bit on the lowest setting (#1). They say that gets the air out.

Some of my early smoothies were a bit mousse-y...I learned I needed more liquid or a little more blending.

Hot cocoa ideas...I have made them with soy milk, raw cacao nibs or powder and vanilla syrup. Wow, was it good!

Have fun learning all the good things about your VM. I still love mine. (BTW: no affiliation, just a happy owner)

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Soups: I made a butternut-apple squash soup in the VM that was silky and delicious. But you have to like squash :) I liked that I used no dairy and yet it was creamy.

I also made a lentil soup on the stove, then took about half and pureed it in the VM, added it back to the pot so that too had more "body" and was very satisfying for my teens!

I would think any veggie soup would be good in it. Especially if you save some veggies to add in at the end for "chopping".

Lisa

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I would recommend going with the vitamix. I have personally had mine for over 5 years now and it's never broken down. If you compare this a cheaper model like the Hamilton Beach blender, that is quite cheap, you'll see that you would have gone through several of cheaper ones in the same amount of time. It depends on your needs though. Would you want to crush ice too? Ever going to try and pulverize seeds? Will you use it very often? If so my advice is to get it if you can afford it.

If you want a review between the two best blenders on the market (in my opinion) then please check out this post: http://www.juiceandsmoothieworld.com/blendtec-vs-vitamix-review/

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I got a Vitamix as a wedding present. Well, technically we got it, but I'm the cook :)

I love it so much! I've used it to make bechamel and cheese sauce for mac and cheese and veggies, hummus, soups, and of course smoothies. It's really wonderful - not like anything else I've owned. The bechamel and cheese sauces were such a time and mess saver.

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I struggled with this question myself since we also have a normal blender and a juicer, but after I started paying $5/day for fresh smoothies at work, I realized I could super easily do this at home with a super blender. We bought both the VitaMix 5200 and the Blendtec from Costco and did a trial run on them -- we liked both but ended up returning the Vitamix since it was a little more expensive, plus we liked the convenience of the preset buttons in the Blendtec. I had really thought we would prefer the Vitamix but honestly they both blend really well. The Blendtec is more compact and easier for us with the buttons (didn't need to figure out when to turn on low vs high), but I can see why some people prefer the Vitamix. We make smoothies, sauces, and many other things with it -- use it more than we anticipated. Recommended.

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Yes, get the Professional Series. Nothing else blends veggies to the same degree, and that's the only real benefit of smoothies - sneaking in the greens. The other benefit, of course, is taste, but that's easy to achieve.

The Vitamin Professional also has a soup setting, which is great in these Winter months, as you can steam up some butternut squash soup in a jiffy.

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Go for a vitamix - pretty sure they are still made in USA - I try to avoid chinese made appliances wherever poss. I purchased a vitamix "drink machine' about 14 years ago for a juice bar, and now it is just used in my home kitchen - its never missed a beat and I have only once changed the container to the BPA free one in that time. pretty sure this model was an industrial version and cost 500 british pounds then - buy the best one you can afford and you will never look back -an essential serious cooks/foodies tool IMO.

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You get better juice from the Vitamix than a juicer because it's whole food juice, membranes and all. Higher fiber, lower sugar than extracted juice. I've owned a Vitamix for 20 years and recently upgraded to the newest model. No regrets!

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YES, most definitely

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I've had mine for 15 years. Completely worth the money.

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On an interesting note, the woman who wrote Why French Women Don't Get Fat is against the Vitamix, smoothies, and juicing in general. She's been quoted recently saying that Americans should skip the green drinks and instead of sit down and savor food. The nutrients will come naturally w/o messing up one's metabolism.

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Yesterday, this thread was 7 years old. Almost 400 postings and still growing strong.

I wonder if the OP ever made up her mind and bought a Vitamix - or something else? LOL!

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I've worn out or burned out a lot of blenders. I've used them pretty hard in the past. The Vitamix lasted a LOT longer than any other.

At the time I got it there were only 2 models and I got the more expensive one. I think maybe they called it "commercial" or something like that. This was back when they still had the rapid-reverse action that used to be their main claim to fame. I think they've dropped that now.

I haven't tried to get it fixed. I'm not even sure where it is right now. I got a super bargain on it, brand new at appreciably less than normal wholesale. 

Is it worth it? I guess that, to me, that depends on how much it would cost to repair it. If that cost is small, so that I could consider it effectively a "lifetime blender", yes, I'd say it probably is worth it, or at least the old reversing ones were. If repair cost approaches the cost of a new one so that it is simply a powerful blender somewhat more durable than the rest, probably not. If I must regard blenders as disposable I think I might look at less expensive ones.

They used to be misleadingly promoted as juicers, including logically unsound arguments about the superiority of the "juice". They are NOT juicers. They are really good blenders.

They only thing like that I use now is a Champion, which is both a juicer and a grinder. I wore one of those out also, but it I did replace, so I'm on the second one. The grinder action (for fruits [and MAYBE nuts], not for really hard dry stuff) is fine if you don't need a super smooth ultra fine grind (which you CAN get in a Vitamix). The juice action is IMO the best you can get for under a thousand dollars, which is still only so-so. To get a decent juicer that doesn't waste a lot, I'm afraid the Norwalk is pretty much the minimum. Out of my budget though.

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This IS an old thread!
I just realized that my VitaMix will be 20 years old this August. It was a wedding gift. I did have to replace the blades in the "wet" container which was rather expensive as I recall, about 12 years ago.

Other than that, it's a beast and I use it a lot. I don't know what model, but I think it's the same one they used to use in Starbucks stores.

I agree they are not juicers. I didn't know they were marketed as such.

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It is so worth every penny!!! The best part of their marketing is that they CAN brag about being in business for over 65 years,producing the same product, hardly changed it and still going strong. Don't know any other that can say the same. 
I know people who have it in their wills.

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slightly interesting turn of events. had my first check-up since my vmix purchase in october. i've been drinking a green smoothie daily since then. oddly enough, my iron levels are now too high. had a fasting blood test on tuesday. i'm guessing pounds of spinach (literally) a week probably has something to do with it.

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We've had our Vitamix for 20 years. Still as strong and productive as when we bought it. Need bread crumbs? Throw a couple of pieces of fresh bread in and presto-just spread the crumbs on top of your casserole. Make gazpacho in minutes. Cost vs useage-a bargain.

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I have ordered a Vitamix but cannot get a response from customer service-making me rethink my order. All I can do is hope that it works perfectly since customer service/support has been non-existent in my experience. Now thinking of cancelling my order and purchasing something from a company that will respond to its customers. I cannot say that I have received any service whatsoever from Vitamix.

You might want to check out Blendtec, Waring or Hamilton Beach if you,like me, can't get Vitamix to recognize you as a customer willing to spend your money on a high-end blender. When I pay for high-end, I expect some level of service to go along with your order.

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Here is another take on Vita-mix. When my family and I lost everything in Katrina the first thing I wanted to replace a few weeks after the storm was my twenty year old VitaMix. Totally homeless at this point, living in a friends bedroom in another state, but missing my green smoothies I called the company and asked if they would honor a ten percent off coupon that I had found. I explained my situation and was told if I could prove that I had owned a VitaMix pre-katrina and my address was in that area the company CEO would give me a new one. I had bought parts for this yard sale find some years before and they found my account. I broke down over the phone overwhelmed by this kind act.They sent me a refurbished one that I gave to my daughter and five grandchildren after nine years of service and bought myself the new professional one. I am a forever customer!!

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The product is good but the customer service is really poor. My plastic jug broke in April and I'm still waiting for a replacement. They said delivery with 15 days, which I thought was bad, but it's been over 4 weeks, and I've called twice and I just get poor excuses. I wouldn't recommend this product based on this experience.

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I recently bought a blender on ebay comparable to the vitamix. It was called blendmore. Excellent buy and a great blender. Looks like a vitamix too.....

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Looked up the Blendmore Blenders and couldn't find anything on it except they are selling them on ebay. The #5200 model # is from Vitamix and is the model I own. It looks exactly like a Vitamix and where the name would be it reads instead Blendmore. Obviously a Chinese knockoff. Interesting info:

This is the blender you have been looking for,that which can transform your life! Help support our new brand of high quality blenders, give us a shot! You won't regret it! (sounds desperate)
Country/Region Of Manufacture: Unknown

No info on company or what/where and how its manufactured. And absolutely no mention of any type of warranty. Scary if you ask me. But hey, Good Luck!!

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I just received my first Vitamix on Monday - a reconditioned 5200. Thanks to everyone that posted in the last few years, I've found all the posts quite interesting and informative.

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I've been traveling a bit lately, and noticed some hotel chains are offering smoothies. As a Vitamix owner at home, I am spoiled by having a perfectly blended smoothie. Chunky, non-pulverized greens, otherwise, are the norm. :(

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I highly recommend Vitamix. This blender/mixe/soup maker/ice cream maker/processor of anything you want to crush, blend, smooth, grain maker, etc, etc., etc.,. It makes fantastic smoothies, health drinks, etc. I love this machine. Yes, it is worth the price even second hand.

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I would like to have a picture of a VitaMix Super 5000. Anyone have one with all the containers, etc.? Thanks

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They sell commercial lenders that are essentially vitamins without the brand name for far cheaper. You just have to look for them. The higher the wattage, the more powerful the blender. Vitamix prices reflects quality to an extent and BRAND NAME in a BIG way. 

Personally, I got some no-name commercial blender a few years back. Not only is it as (if not more) powerful as a Vitamix, but it's got a 70oz pitcher and cost about half. Been abusing it daily with ice, filling it to near full and haven't yet found anything it can't pulverize with ease. It is very similar to this- http://www.amazon.com/Cleanblend-3HP-1800-Watt-Commercial-Blender/dp/B0094B94BM/ref=sr_1_27?s=kitchen&ie=UTF8&qid=1449154102&sr=1-27-spons&keywords=1200+watt+blender&psc=1

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This is exactly what you wrote, a Chinese Knock off and not a cheap one either. So many things can and will probably go wrong. No pictures of the blade. On their web site the main emphasis is on how much cheaper they are versus the competitor instead of why they are superior to their competitor. 
You cant go wrong with a Vitamix, you will have a blender for life.

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I purchased the Vitamix 5200 about two years ago. It is a piece of garbage. Constantly requires even small food items to be pushed down into the blender blade or things to be loosened from blocking the spinning blade. A very frustrating machine that I would recommend to no-one. I still have it because I spent way too much money on it and don't use a blender often enough to justify buying a new one.

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My Vitamix 780 was absolutely worth the money. It blends ingredients to a consistency other blenders cannot achieve. All your smoothies have a unique creaminess to them, it can blend things so well that it practically juices them. I now have a delicious, healthy green smoothie every morning, and we use this blender at least twice a day. The most useful appliance I've bought. I didn't like the look or performance of Blendtec as much as Vitamix.

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