When it comes to high-performance blenders, the Vitamix 5200, Ninja BL660, and Vitamix Explorian stand out as popular choices among home cooks and professional chefs alike. Each of these models brings its own unique features and capabilities to the table, catering to a variety of blending needs and preferences. This comparison will explore their design, functionality, and user experience, helping potential buyers determine which blender best suits their culinary endeavors.
Smooth Blends
The Vitamix 5200 Blender offers professional-grade performance with variable speed control and a self-cleaning 64-ounce container, perfect for blending medium to large batches. Its powerful stainless-steel blades can turn cold ingredients into hot soup in about six minutes, ensuring consistent quality with every use.
Smoothie Mastery
The Ninja BL660 Professional Blender features a powerful 1100-watt motor and versatile functions, making it ideal for creating frozen drinks, smoothies, and sauces with ease. With a large 72-oz pitcher and two 16-oz to-go cups, it offers convenience for both family meals and on-the-go enjoyment.
Smoothie Mastery
The Vitamix Explorian Blender features ten variable speeds for precise texture control and a convenient pulse function for versatile recipe preparation. Its low-profile 64-ounce container is ideal for family meals, while the self-cleaning capability ensures effortless maintenance.
Vitamix 5200 Blender
Power and Performance
11.5 Amps, 120 Volts, professional-grade performance with variable speed control.
Capacity
64 Fluid Ounces, ideal for medium to large batches.
Cleaning Convenience
Self-cleaning in 30 to 60 seconds with soap and warm water.
Blade Material and Design
Hardened stainless-steel blades designed for tough ingredients.
Warranty and Support
7-year full warranty covering parts, labor, and return shipping.
Ninja BL660 Blender
Power and Performance
1100 Watts motor, designed for pulverizing ice and tough ingredients rapidly.
Capacity
72 Fluid Ounces, suitable for larger quantities and family-sized servings.
Cleaning Convenience
Dishwasher safe parts, easy to clean.
Blade Material and Design
Stacked blade assembly designed for total crushing and even chopping.
Warranty and Support
Warranty details not specified, but includes recipe guide for support.
Vitamix Explorian Blender
Power and Performance
11.5 Amps, 120 Volts, professional-grade performance with variable speed control.
Capacity
64 Fluid Ounces, perfect for family meals and entertaining.
Cleaning Convenience
Self-cleaning in 30 to 60 seconds with soap and warm water.
Blade Material and Design
Hardened stainless-steel blades designed for tough ingredients.
Warranty and Support
3-year full warranty.
Vitamix 5200 Blender
Ninja BL660 Blender
Vitamix Explorian Blender
Vitamix 5200 Blender
Ninja BL660 Blender
Vitamix Explorian Blender
Comparison chart
| Feature | Vitamix 5200 Blender | Ninja BL660 Blender | Vitamix Explorian Blender |
|---|---|---|---|
| Power | 2.0 HP | 1100 Watts | 2.0 HP |
| Container Size | 64 oz | 72 oz | 64 oz |
| Functions | Blending, self-cleaning | 3 Functions: Smoothie, Frozen Drinks, Sauces | Blending, variable speed control |
| Attachments | None | (2) 16-oz To-Go Cups & Spout Lids | None |
| Self-Cleaning Feature | Yes | No | Yes |
| Design | Classic, Professional-Grade | Compact, Versatile | Low-Profile, Professional-Grade |
| Renewed Premium Option | No | No | Yes |
| Price Range | Higher-End | Mid-Range | Mid-Range |
| Warranty | 7-Year Full Warranty | 1-Year Limited Warranty | 5-Year Limited Warranty |
Unique Selling Points (USPs)
Vitamix 5200 Blender
- Professional-grade quality for consistent results.
- Self-cleaning feature saves time and effort.
- Durable build with a strong motor perfect for tough ingredients.
Ninja BL660 Blender
- Versatile functionality with 3 settings for various recipes.
- Includes to-go cups for convenience on the go.
- Compact design ideal for small kitchens.
Vitamix Explorian Blender
- Variable speed control allows for precision blending.
- Premium renewed option offers a cost-effective choice for a high-quality machine.
- Low-profile design fits easily under most kitchen cabinets.
Pros & Cons
Vitamix 5200 Blender
Pros:
- Exceptional performance for smoothies and soups.
- Long-lasting durability and warranty.
- Easy to clean.
Cons:
- Higher price point may not fit all budgets.
- Heavier than competitors, less portable.
Ninja BL660 Blender
Pros:
- Great value for the price with included accessories.
- Powerful motor for ice and frozen drinks.
- Compact design fits in smaller spaces.
Cons:
- Limited warranty compared to Vitamix.
- Lacks the self-cleaning feature.
Vitamix Explorian Blender
Pros:
- Offers a good balance of performance and price.
- Variable speed control for better blending precision.
- Renewed option provides a budget-friendly alternative.
Cons:
- Still on the pricier side compared to standard blenders.
- No additional attachments included.
Use-Cases
- Vitamix 5200: Best for serious home chefs or those looking to make a variety of recipes, including smoothies, soups, and sauces with professional results.
- Ninja BL660: Ideal for those who need a versatile and compact blender for everyday use, especially for frozen drinks and smoothies.
- Vitamix Explorian: Suited for users seeking a premium blender experience without the highest price tag, especially beneficial for making varied recipes with precision.
Conclusive Assessment
While there is no outright winner among these three exceptional blenders, the best choice depends on specific user needs:
- Vitamix 5200 is the choice for those prioritizing performance and durability, making it ideal for serious cooking enthusiasts.
- Ninja BL660 shines with its versatility and value for the price, particularly for casual users and those in smaller living spaces.
- Vitamix Explorian serves as a great middle-ground option for anyone wanting Vitamix quality at a slightly reduced cost.
Final Summary
In conclusion, each of the blenders evaluated has distinct advantages that cater to different types of users. If you want a professional-grade machine that excels in performance and self-cleaning, the Vitamix 5200 stands out. For those looking for versatility and accessories at a reasonable price, the Ninja BL660 is a strong contender. Lastly, if you are seeking a high-quality blender with precision control and a more budget-friendly premium option, consider the Vitamix Explorian. Your ideal choice will ultimately depend on your specific blending needs and preferences.
Thanks for this detailed comparison! I totally agree that the Vitamix models seem to stand out in performance. But I’m still torn between the 5200 and the Explorian. Any advice?
You’re welcome! If you’re looking for a good balance between features and price, the Explorian might be the way to go. But if you want top-notch performance, the 5200 is hard to beat!
I actually prefer the Ninja BL660 for its price point. It’s way more affordable and still does a great job blending! Anyone else feel like you can get similar quality without breaking the bank?
Thanks for sharing your perspective! The Ninja BL660 definitely has its strengths, especially with the price. Some users find it meets their needs perfectly without the high cost of Vitamix.
I’ve been eyeing the Vitamix 5200 for a while now. It’s a bit pricey, but I hear it’s worth every penny for smoothies and soups! Anyone else think the investment is justified?
If you’re considering other options, I’d recommend checking out the Breville Super Q Blender. I’ve heard great things about its performance and it’s a solid alternative to the Vitamix models!
Great suggestion! The Breville Super Q has been gaining popularity and definitely offers some unique features that might appeal to users looking for alternatives.
I’ve been using my Vitamix Explorian for a year now, and I love how easy it is to clean. Just a drop of soap and water, blend it, and it’s good as new! Pro tip for new users: don’t forget to scrape down the sides when making thick smoothies!
Thanks for the tip! Cleaning can be a hassle with blenders, so easy maintenance is a huge plus. I’m sure other users will find that advice helpful!
I own the Vitamix 5200 and honestly, it changed my smoothie game! I can throw in frozen fruit, veggies, whatever, and it blends it all perfectly. Totally worth the investment!
That’s awesome to hear! The 5200 has a great reputation for its blending power, and your experience really highlights its capabilities. Thanks for sharing!