Similar to the Ascent 3500 model, this combines a variable speed dial with a digital timer and wireless connectivity that recognizes the blender jar size and adjusts the programs. It can also connect to the Vitamix Perfect Blend app and to the Perfect Blend Pro Smart Scale for precise measuring as you cook. More importantly, this has an impressive amount of power and can blend just about anything you put in the container.

While the included blender jar was all we needed, the accessory jars are appealing. We particularly liked the new 8-ounce cup for single servings of dip or chopping herbs for recipes. A 20-ounce container would be appropriate for to-go drinks and large amounts of salad dressing. The Aer Disc Containerhas a unique blade for whipping, emulsifying, and muddling, while the Dry Grains Containeris for grinding grains into flour. Similarly, the accessories only extend to cups and small processing bowls at present; when larger processing bowls or a small blender jug might be more useful. The tamper, at least, is standard, and is especially good for nudging stubborn ingredients towards the blades. There’s also a recipe book in the box, which is a must for making the most of a pricey machine. Why buy the Vitamix Ascent A2300i?

About Vitamix

Our Lab team has spent collective decades working in professional kitchens, developing recipes, and testing kitchen gear. Noise: As we ran our tests on each blender, we noted the maximum decibel level it registered. None of the machines were silent, but noise levels ranged from 70 decibels—similar to a vacuum cleaner—to over 90—similar to a lawnmower. This excelled in our tests, blending an aerated smoothie with a very smooth texture. When it came to making peanut butter, we found that the wide and large container is best suited for larger batches. If you know you'll be frequently blending up small quantities, there is a compatible 32-ounce container sold separately that will be best suited for those recipes. We loved how much control we had over the power even though this isn't digital. During testing, we were blown away by how rich and frothy the smoothie came out, with very little need to scrape down the sides. Like with most models, the wide container caused some issues during the peanut butter test, so larger batches are encouraged.

The Variable Speed Control allows you to refine every texture, from the chunkiest salsas to the smoothest purées

If you don't have budget or space for a full-size Vitamix, this handheld immersion blender offers versatility and power in a compact form. Of course, it doesn't include a blending jar or pitcher, but it can be used in lots of vessels. If you want a blender that can make a morning smoothie and not much more, the Vitamix Ascent Series A3500i will absolutely be overkill. However, if you're a keen cook who makes regular use of a blender and wants to make an investment that will last a lifetime, I'd be inclined to say that this is the best blender on the market for you. About this review, and the reviewer While there are options for containers, in the box you will find the 64-ounce Low-Profile Container. The large capacity allows for blending six to twelve servings in a single batch but the height remains low enough for storing. At 10 inches tall you won't need to turn the container on it's side although at 17 inches on the base you will probably need to separate the two pieces. Features and functions: We considered all the settings available on the machines, from basic pulse mode and speed settings to a variety of timers and automated smart features. To determine if they truly add usefulness, we ran batches using a variety of settings in addition to our kale and peanut butter tests. We also noted whether the controls made using the blenders more or less difficult. Vitamix recently launched a food processor attachment, which resembles a traditional 12-cup food processor bowl with a multiuse blade and two reversible shredding/slicing discs. The attachment only works with the more tech-savvy Ascent and Venturist blenders, though.

Established in 1939, Vitamix specialise in high-powered blenders which can be used for all manner of tasks around the kitchen. Ever since 1949, when founder William G. Barnard created the first infomercial about how his Vitamix blender could help families live healthier lifestyles, Vitamix have revolutionised the way in which we use blenders to support a healthy lifestyle. The size of your blender totally depends on what you want to use it for. Will you mainly make big batches of smoothies, sauces, or soups? If so, you may want to consider a Vitamix with a large pitcher, and perhaps even some travel cups. If you make small-batch dips and sauces, just need something personal, or have limited counter space and storage, go for a compact variety. This Vitamix 5200 comes with a tall, slim, 64-ounce container that’s perfect for smoothies, purees, and hot soups. It has a variable-speed dial that lets you change the speed as you blend, and a pulse button for chunky blending and precise textures. The on/off toggle rounds out the controls.

The motor base has wireless connectivity, so it can read the size of the container that is in use and adjust the program settings and blending times appropriately. It comes with a 64-ounce container, but other compatible containers are available separately. An integrated timer turns the blender off when time runs out, so you can walk away and know that you’ve blended for exactly the right time. The intuitive controls are a touchscreen for a sleek appearance and easy cleaning. Like other Vitamix blenders, this one has variable speed controls as well as a pulse button for ultimate control of everything you blend.