It is impossible to imagine modern cuisine without many mechanical assistants that significantly facilitate and speed up the cooking process. One of the most useful gadgets is a blender. This device is not replaceable for young mothers, fit babies and party lovers. A huge number of products of different brands, types and configurations are presented on the market. This article contains useful information that will help you make your choice.
Content
5 advantages of a blender over a combine and mixer
A blender is considered a versatile gadget for working in the kitchen. The appliance combines the advantages of a food processor and a mixer. At the same time, it is devoid of their main disadvantages.
| Device | Functions | Product type | Compactness | Additional attachments and accessories | Average price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Food processor | Shredding Slicing Meat grinder Kolka Press Mixer Spinning | Any | - | Lots of, equipment depends on the model. | 9000 rubles |
| Mixer | Whipping Mixing | Liquid | + | from 1 to 5 | 3000 rubles |
| Blender | Shredding Slicing Kolka Whipping Mixing Press | Any | + | from 1 to 15 | 3000 rubles |
Blenders differ in form and method of use, but each of them has 5 undeniable advantages:
- Compactness... Due to its size, the device can easily hide in the bowels of even the smallest kitchen.
- Wide range of functions performed: You can cut, chop herbs and nuts, make mashed potatoes, whisk and mix different ingredients.
- Rapid activation in pulse mode: allows you to grind the product almost instantly.
- Profitability... A blender can easily replace a whole team of mechanical assistants, moreover, you can pick up a model in a wide price range (from 950 to 50,000 rubles).
- Conciseness... The minimalistic design and simple control panel make it easy to use.
6 main types of blenders
Thanks to the variety of models, you can choose an option that will meet the requirements of the most picky user.
Stationary
The classic version of the device: on the base in which the motor is hidden, a working container is installed. Inside the bowl or jug there are sharp blades that rotate along a given trajectory at high speed. The bowl is closed with a lid to prevent splashing. The device is installed on a flat surface, after which it is completely ready for use. It has a fairly high power: from 700 W to 1400 W. Suitable for chopping ice, different types of crushing of solid foods and mixing cocktails.
Pay attention to the material of the jug. If the family has little cooks, it is better to choose the plastic option, as it is more resistant to impacts and falls.
Advantages:
- Free hands. All it takes is to load the ingredients and press a button.
- Auto cleaning. In order to wash the bowl after use, you need to pour warm water into it, add a drop of dishwashing detergent and turn on the grinding mode at the minimum speed. Then just rinse and send to dry.
- Design. Concise and versatile enough. The device will look good both in classic and ultra-modern kitchen design.
- Soup and double boiler function. Many models are equipped with an additional program for heating food and even making simple soups.
For hot food, choose blenders with accessories made of steel or food grade aluminum.
Disadvantages:
- Relatively large size. Not suitable for small kitchens, as the device will have to allocate space on the work surface to be able to use it daily.
- Relatively high noise level.
- The complexity of replacing components. The peculiarity of stationary blenders is an individual bowl with knives. In the event of a breakdown, it is difficult to find the perfect replacement.
Submersible
A very convenient and compact option. The body of the main unit is made in the form of a long handle, in which the control circuit and the motor are enclosed. An extended working attachment with knives fixed at the end is attached to it. During operation, it is held in the hand and immersed in a container with products that need to be chopped. Gadgets of this type are popular today. It involves pressing and constantly holding the power button during operation, which allows you to control the process.
Choose models that have an anti-slip coating and metal attachments, this will ensure a longer service life.
Advantages:
- Compactness. Does not require a permanent workplace, easily fits into a kitchen drawer.
- Pulse operation is provided
- Easy to care for and use. To prepare the device for operation, it is enough to attach a suitable nozzle, and then rinse it under running water.
- The ability to expand the basic set of functions. You can pick up an additional set of nozzles, just for those actions that are needed most often, it is just as easy to replace the deteriorated part.
Disadvantages:
- Static and vibration. The device must be held in hands during operation, fatigue quickly comes from a static position and vibration. Numbness and pain may occur with prolonged use.
- A small one-time volume of chopped products.
Universal
Designed to combine all the advantages and eliminate the disadvantages of classic models. Combined devices have a mandatory 3 in 1 marking, as they can easily replace a meat grinder, mixer and shaker.
Advantages:
- Multifunctionality. The set includes a large number of attachments, a chopping bowl and a handle with plunge-type blades.
- Possibility of expanding the basic set.
- Ease of care.
Disadvantages:
- Takes up a lot of storage space.
- Relatively high cost - from 4000 rubles.
Wireless
Wireless devices are equipped with a built-in battery, often made as a variation of the submersible model, but there is also a mini-analogue of stationary blenders.
Advantages:
- Mobility. You can work wherever it is convenient, regardless of the availability of an outlet, and even take it to nature.
Disadvantages:
- Small set of functions: used for making cocktails, smoothies, kneading batter.
- Power is no more than 350 W.
- Discharges quickly.
Personal
Portable models can be powered or supplied with a power adapter. Designed for small portions for one person.
Advantages:
- Recharges quickly.
- Compact and easy to transport
- Many models are equipped with ingredient accessories.
- Low noise level.
Disadvantages:
- Includes no more than 2 functions: suitable for making baby food, cocktails and smoothies.
- Low power.
Vacuum
Vacuum models are representatives of the latest generation of devices. During the grinding of products due to working in a vacuum, no oxidative reactions occur.
Advantages:
- The technology allows you to achieve a homogeneous texture, retaining all vitamins and the smell of fresh vegetables or fruits.
- Low noise and vibration levels.
Disadvantages:
- High cost - from 20,000 rubles
Attachments and accessories
A blender is a popular kitchen appliance that performs a large number of operations. The standard set can always be expanded by purchasing additional attachments. Let's consider a brief description of the possible options:
Main nozzle
Consists of two parts: fixings 15-20 centimeters long and a working unit made of stainless high quality steel. The work unit has a small anti-splash dome. Some models are additionally equipped with replaceable knives of different shapes. The main purpose: preparation of small cuts from fresh and boiled vegetables and fruits, pureed soups, mixing a variety of cocktails.
Mixer attachment
On the base for attachment to the body, whorls made of thin wire are movably fixed. The spiral whisk is intended for kneading thick dough, and the teardrop-shaped whisk is used for whipping liquids, egg whites and yolks, butter and creams, sauces, cream and cocktails.
Chopper bowl
Looks like a wide bowl or tall jug with a tight-fitting lid. Made of metal, glass or plastic. The volume ranges from 0.35 to 2.2 liters. The blades of one or more universal knives are attached to the bottom. Designed for grinding vegetables, fruits, meat and grains. If the cover is made with a hole, it is possible to add components during operation.
Cube cutter
A complex of a lattice knife, cutting food into even cubes in the vertical direction, and rotating blades, chopping horizontally.
Ice pick
This option may not be used on all devices. The main requirement for the device is power above 350 watts. It works in two programs: ice separation into large pieces or crushing into crumbs.
Use a special metal cup to chop ice in a blender. If you prick in a plastic chopper bowl, cracks will appear.
Dough hook
It looks like a spiral-shaped metal hook with a special coating. Dough kneading time is about 7-15 minutes, depending on the consistency. The downside is that this puts a heavy load on the blender motor.
Shredder disc
Metal disc with differently shaped pointed projections. It is used for fast and accurate cutting of vegetables, fruits, sausages, boiled meat, hard cheeses into thin slices.
Purée attachment
Additional attachment in the form of a special mesh with fine meshes for rubbing boiled potatoes, carrots and other vegetables or fruits through it.
Vacuum pump
It is used to evacuate containers or tight food bags with ready-made meals or semi-finished products for storage in the refrigerator and increase the shelf life.
It is worth purchasing only those attachments that correspond to the power of the blender, otherwise it will break.
As additional accessories, manufacturers most often offer a stand or mount for compact storage of the hand blender and all its accessories on a tabletop, wall or cabinet door. They also additionally offer a rubberized anti-slip and anti-vibration pad for the handle, a plastic measuring cup or glass flask.
New attachments, knives and other replaceable elements must be thoroughly washed before use to remove factory grease.
Selection rules. Top best models for home use
The blender is a versatile device that saves time on cutting and mixing components. The diversity of the market poses a serious choice problem for the buyer. The ranking of the best blenders in 2020 will help to solve it. The top includes 11 popular models with an optimal price-quality ratio.
Avent-Philips SCF870
The blender Avent-Philips SCF870 starts our rating from the eleventh place. This model is the best option for young mothers who make children's purees from vegetables, boiled meat or fruits every day and want to save some time. The average price is 4,200 rubles.
Benefits:
- Power 400 watts.
- High-quality plastic, does not contain harmful impurities that can get into food when heated.
- Steamer and heating function.
- Low weight.
- Additional booklet with recommendations for starting complementary foods.
Disadvantages:
- High noise level.
- Requires a flat installation surface.
Supra HBS-625
In tenth place, the Supra HBS-625 hand blender is suitable for a wide range of daily tasks in any kitchen. The average price is 1800 rubles.
Benefits:
- Compactness.
- Stylish black and white design.
- Convenient handle with a curved, ergonomic shape.
- 2 speeds + pulse mode.
- The knives are made of stainless steel.
Disadvantages:
- When working for a long time in pulse mode, there is not enough power.
- Rapid heating of the case during intensive work.
Sсarlett SC-HB42F19
The ninth position in the rating is taken by the Scarlett SC-HB42F19 blender. An excellent functional model for a variety of culinary tasks. Average price 3200.
Benefits:
- Good power.
- Five speed modes
- Wide range of attachments.
- High quality steel knives.
- Laconic design.
- An additional accessory is a 600 ml measuring cup.
Disadvantages:
- The shredder wears out quickly.
- The volume of the bowl is 500 ml.
- Noisy.
Oberhof Wirbel E21
The stationary blender Oberhof Wirbel E21 ranks eighth in our ranking. This is a universal assistant for every housewife. The device is increased in power, so it can easily handle even solid products. The blender runs almost silently. The special design of the blades ensures consistent results when mixing ingredients. The Oberhof E21 blender has five speed settings. Average price: 4990 rubles.
Benefits:
- High power 1200 watts.
- Volumetric bowl (1.8 l) made of food grade plastic.
- There is overload and electric shock protection.
- Three automatic modes: smoothie, ice pick, puree.
Disadvantages:
- Not found.
Moulinex LM 300
On the seventh line of the rating - the stationary blender Moulinex LM300. The device allows you to create soups, purees and cocktails at incredible speed. The average price is 4500 rubles.
Benefits:
- 2 speeds + Pulse mode
- Simple and convenient assembly system
- Quality bowl with a volume of 1.5 liters.
- Works very quietly.
- Rotary mechanical switch.
Disadvantages:
- Power 400 W.
- With prolonged operation, it overheats.
Kitfort KT-1307
The sixth position is the budget option - the Kitfort KT-1307 stationary blender. Ideal for handling liquids and semi-solid products. Suitable for making baby food, cream soups and fitness cocktails. Average price 2500 rubles.
Benefits:
- Glass bowl with a volume of 1 liter.
- Metal body.
- Hole lid for adding ingredients during operation.
- Robust construction with good surface grip.
Disadvantages:
- Somewhat noisy.
- Power 450 watts.
Bosch MSM 6B700
The fifth line of the rating is occupied by the inexpensive submersible model Bosch MSM 6B700. It grinds well almost any food, especially greens and cheeses. Average price 2300 rubles.
Benefits:
- Ergonomic shape.
- Quality materials.
- Stylish design.
- Ease of assembly.
- It is convenient to use when working with tall dishes.
- Measuring cup included.
Disadvantages:
- You cannot change the speed of work.
- Small bowl.
- Not suitable for ice picking.
Redmond RHB-2908
In fourth place is the Redmond RHB-2908 hand blender in premium design. This small appliance has the functions of a mixer, chopper and blender itself. The price is 3500 rubles.
Benefits:
- Powerful 750 watt motor.
- Smooth gear shifting.
- Modern design.
- Low noise level.
- Separate mixing and chopping bowls and whisk for whipping.
Disadvantages:
- Some bowls wear out quickly under heavy use.
Gorenje HB804E
In third place is the hand blender from the renowned European manufacturer Gorenje. If you need frequent use for chopping hard and soft foods, this model will be an excellent choice. Average price 3800 rubles.
Benefits:
- Power 800W.
- 12 different speeds.
- Turbo and pulse modes.
- Branded stand for storing the case and attachments.
- Metal body.
- Beaker.
- Rubberized anti-vibration handle.
Disadvantages:
- Problems may arise with replacement parts if broken.
Philips HR 1646
The second line of the rating is occupied by a powerful device Philips HR 1646. Refers to submersible models. The average price is 3800 rubles.
Benefits:
- A good motor power level is 650 watts.
- Electronic process control.
- Ten speed modes
- Ergonomic handle with multi-function button.
- Quality build and stylish design.
- Includes a handy measuring cup, small grinder, whisk attachment with two whisks.
Disadvantages:
- Small chopping bowl volume.
- Not suitable for ice picking.
Philips HR 1677
Philips HR 1677 became the leader of the top 11. The model is easy to operate. Easily assembled and disassembled, ending with cleaning the component parts. Average price 6,300 rubles.
Benefits:
- Power - 800 W.
- Rugged, shock-resistant, compact body.
- Includes a measuring cup.
- Electronic control.
- The volume of the jug is 1.2 liters.
- Smooth gear shifting with SeedTouche function.
- Quality stainless steel grinder with ergonomic shape.
- Long cable 1.2 m, protected at critical points from kinks and tears.
Disadvantages:
- Great weight.
- No pulse mode.
- Not suitable for ice picking.
What to look for when choosing a model
So that the blender does not disappoint during operation, decide how often and for what purpose you will use it. Based on this, when choosing a model, you need to pay attention to some features:
Motor power
- 300-500 W - suitable for those who use the machine 2-3 times a week in order to mix cocktails, turn soup into puree or whip cream for ice cream.
- 700-1000 W - designed for daily use, work well not only with liquids and soft foods, but also crush hard ingredients such as nuts.
- 1000-1300 watts - for those who have made cooking their profession. They have advanced functionality like real food processors, only easier to use.
Set of functions performed
This parameter is individual and depends on culinary preferences. You can choose an option with 2 basic or 15 variable ways of use. Pay attention to the compatibility of the model with additional attachments, which can be purchased later.
Type of food
Blenders can be powered by mains power and an internal power supply. Networked models are more powerful and functional, and wireless ones can be moved not only in the house, but also taken with you to work, on trips, to nature. If you decide to go with the wireless option, be sure to check the battery power and battery life in idle mode.
Material
It should be high-quality plastic, odorless and free of delamination, tempered glass, resistant to mechanical stress or stainless steel.
Working noise level
Classic models have an indicator of about 70 dB, some manufacturers install an additional built-in noise reduction system.
The presence of anti-vibration and anti-slip coatings
This parameter is especially important for blenders with powerful motors.When operating in turbo mode, the smooth handle may slip out of your hand.
Is it dishwasher safe
Modern manufacturers create models of blenders that are allowed to be washed in a dishwasher. Their key difference is the presence of seals at the joints, which do not allow moisture to penetrate inside. Look at the instructions, it should indicate which parts of the blender can be washed with full immersion in water or in the dishwasher under a certain mode.
Following our advice, you can easily find a blender that will become a reliable assistant in creating culinary masterpieces. After reviewing the top of the best models for home use, outline the options that will best meet the requirements and feel free to go to the store.
