Blender or mixer – which is better for solving numerous kitchen tasks? Choosing a blender How to choose the right attachment material

Blender or mixer – which is better for solving numerous kitchen tasks? Choosing a blender How to choose the right attachment material

Blender - with this wonderful device you can not only make your kitchen routine easier (cooking minced meat, chopping products), but also discover many new recipes, for example, making pureed soups or a variety of cocktails. Now there are a huge variety of different blenders on the market of various models, and we will tell you how to choose the best one in this article.

What is an immersion blender for?

An immersion blender has an incredibly simple design that is designed to serve one purpose - blending, but thanks to the different attachments it can blend in different ways and is quite a versatile thing.

I have been using the blender for 2 months. I cook literally everything for them. High-quality: crushes, grates, whips cream and makes pancake dough. A very cool thing for any kitchen, it satisfies all my needs.

Man from the forum

For example, you can use such a blender to make smoothies to please yourself on a hot summer day or use it to prepare fruit puree - this will be very useful for young mothers who want to please their babies.


In addition, such a blender will help you make custard for cakes or cakes, and can also be used to prepare small quantities of minced meat. (for one serving of cutlets). We hope now you have no doubt that a blender is an indispensable assistant in every kitchen and it can come in handy in preparing any dish.

Hand blender power

We have already touched on this point above, but since it is very important and can seriously affect the price, it makes sense to write about it in more detail.

The power of all main blenders ranges from 140 to 1200 W and they are usually divided into groups:

  • Low-power. (up to 400 W) Very narrowly targeted models that are suitable for preparing vegetable purees or chopping other soft foods. It is highly not recommended to buy such a blender as your main one. If you are sure that you will only use it to make baby purees, then you can save money and purchase a blender with this power.

    The blender is simple, suitable for simple tasks like pureeing for breakfast. That’s actually how I use it and don’t even think about overloading it with complex tasks. There are more sophisticated devices for this purpose. And this one provides me with wonderful porridges and fruit purees every day.

    Man from the forum on low-power blender

  • Medium power. (400 to 600 W) This power will be quite enough for chopping boiled meat or slightly frozen vegetables. Such a blender will no longer be able to grind raw meat, for example, for minced meat; most likely, quite large pieces will remain.

    I recently purchased this blender to make purees for baby food. The dull knife did not chop the meat well. Quite large pieces remain.

    Man from the forum

  • High power. (from 600 to 1000 W) If you're willing to pay for that kind of power, this would be a great option for your home kitchen. Such a device can easily grind ice, nuts, coffee and other solid foods.
  • Heavy duty blender. (from 1000 W) Buying such a blender is only worth it to those people who understand why they need such power, and it can be useful, for example, for kneading very thick dough (usually there is a special attachment for this)

Additional functions

Every good blender should have additional functions and useful components; without them, it becomes very ineffective and practically useless, no matter how powerful it is.

Number and material of nozzles

A very important point is the correct support of the blender attachments. They directly determine what functions this kitchen appliance can perform. As mentioned above, you should not buy a blender with plastic attachments, they will significantly reduce the range of use, but even when choosing a blender with a steel or aluminum attachment, you need to look at its quality and check everything with the documents.


When you have selected a good material, you must make sure that you have all the basic attachments that you may need, and so that you know what attachments generally exist, we have compiled this list:


Number of speeds

This is worth paying attention to if you are buying a not very expensive model. It often happens that you need to grind something soft and this does not require too much power; if the blender does not allow you to regulate it, this is very bad.


Modern blenders can provide up to 24 speeds, which can serve completely different tasks.

Good to know. To grind meat into minced meat, you need to start at a very low speed and gradually increase it - this will allow you to achieve the ideal consistency, without large pieces getting in.

Availability and length of wire

Recently, manufacturers have begun to move away from wires more and more, which is very logical, because an immersion blender is much more convenient when it does not depend on an outlet. Cordless blenders contain a battery that needs to be charged regularly.


But if you don’t have the opportunity to purchase a cordless blender or you simply don’t want to spend extra money knowing that you won’t need such a function, then you should take the length of the wire very seriously. Think in advance about where you will be preparing food and where the nearest outlet is located so that you do not have to use an extension cord.

Good to know. If your outlet is located far away, you don’t have to worry that a long wire will constantly get in the way. Most manufacturers provide the ability to hide it directly in the handle (using a special button) or make a convenient fastening.

If you have a choice between a wired and wireless model, then there is one more very important thing to know. Cordless blenders in most cases have less power, so it is worth understanding what tasks you will use it for.

Useful little things

  • Stylish stand. If you will use the blender often, then there is no point in hiding it in drawers. Choose a stand that matches the color and style of your kitchen; lately, many manufacturers have been offering this option.
  • Blender mount. Allows you to hang your blender on the wall, or anywhere in general. It will be an excellent solution for small kitchens, where every centimeter plays an important role.
  • Beaker. Probably everyone can guess its usefulness. Often comes in handy for following all the details of a recipe.
  • Rubberized handle. This is already standard, but there are blenders that don't even do this. Thanks to this little detail, your hand will not slip off the lens hood and it will be much easier to hold it for a long time.

Video about choosing an immersion blender

In the video you will see a detailed overview of the popular model of immersion blender, and also learn how to choose the right blender for your kitchen.

Conclusion

When choosing a blender, you need to understand why you will need it for chopping meat, soft fruit, ice or slightly frozen vegetables. This will determine how powerful the blender will be, what attachments will be required, and, of course, its price, which is important for many.

Until recently, many housewives got by with a hand whisk and a hand grinder. And with the advent of technical innovations, some women are in real confusion - a blender or a mixer, which is better to buy in order to solve several kitchen problems at once.

The modern market of small household appliances is oversaturated with all kinds of multifunctional devices that make the life of food preparation specialists much easier. Individual devices may have similar or even the same functionality. Sometimes it is quite difficult to find significant differences. But this is a very fundamental question for those who are against filling the kitchen space with several appliances with the same functions.


Some people think that the difference between a blender and a mixer is not that big, so you can get by with one of the devices. But in reality this is far from the case. These devices are significantly different and have different purposes.

What you need to know about blenders

A blender is a fairly powerful device that can process fruit and berry components, nuts, meat, fish, crush ice, make purees, beat eggs or cream mass in a matter of minutes. Its main purpose is to grind and mix. As a rule, they are convenient, compact and fit well in any kitchen.
There are 2 main types of blenders:

  1. Submersible is a kitchen appliance that successfully copes with the tasks of chopping food. It consists of an elongated handle with a built-in motor and control buttons. It also implies the presence of a container in which the ingredients will be mixed. In addition, it can be equipped with a variety of bowls and attachments, including mixing whisks.
  2. Stationary is also a kitchen device that chops food, consisting of a body, a bowl and a lid. All this is located on a stable base. The device can be controlled mechanically or electronically. This device is capable of not only crushing all kinds of products, but it is also capable of crushing ice, pureeing, and whipping creamy mixtures. This device is something between a mixer and a food processor.

Both types of grinding devices have slightly different functionality. The stationary one has a narrow specialization due to a single nozzle. With its help, you can successfully prepare cocktails and make purees from any product. Some models are equipped with an ice crusher. Submersible models are more functional, thanks to a set of various attachments.

To ensure that grinding devices have a longer service life, it is better to give preference to models with metal cutting elements. If the device is equipped with plastic parts, then during operation, against the background of heat from a heated engine, they may melt.

Advantages of blenders:

  • ability to perform many functions;
  • quickly crushes all kinds of ingredients, including nuts and ice;
  • relatively compact size.

Disadvantages of blenders:

  • creates a lot of noise;
  • in submersible models you need to constantly hold the button;
  • during prolonged operation it may overheat and fail;
  • additional functions (whisk) do not cope well with the assigned tasks;
  • a heating motor affects the taste and beneficial components of fruits and vegetables;
  • difficult to clean (water cannot get on the part with the engine).

Well, of course, before deciding what is better to buy - a blender or a mixer, you also need to have a general understanding of mixers.

What you need to know about mixers

A mixer is a device actively used in kitchens for mixing and whipping soft or prepared products. In terms of operating speed, it is significantly inferior to a blender, and also does not include an attachment with sharp knives. The main working element of the device is a pair of whisks made of durable metal.

There are 2 main types of whipping devices widely available on sale:

  1. Manual - implies constant holding of the unit in the user’s hands. It successfully kneads thin dough and combines various components. Such a device is usually small in size, easy to disassemble and compactly stored. It handles simple cooking tasks quite well. But the device will not be able to knead relatively thick dough.
  2. Stationary - a reliable, respectable kitchen device. Its package includes the mixer itself, a bowl in which the ingredients are mixed and a stand that provides stability during the working process. A stand mixer requires a permanent place and takes up part of the kitchen surface, but it functions independently.

Both types of beaters mix any liquid products with ease. They work equally well with whole milk, fermented milk products, ghee, and eggs. Such units will easily help you prepare a cocktail with fluffy foam. They can also use creams, sauces and mayonnaise.

The mixer cannot handle solid ingredients. A homogeneous mass can only be achieved from liquid or pre-processed components. If, for example, in the process of preparing a cocktail, you put berries and pieces of fruit into a whipping bowl, then they will remain quite large particles in the finished drink.

Advantages of mixers:

  • during long-term operation the engine does not overheat;
  • whipping liquid products occurs quickly and efficiently;
  • easy to clean and maintain (all parts can be safely washed in the dishwasher).

Disadvantages of mixers:

  • highly specialized device;
  • the stationary model is quite bulky;
  • makes quite a lot of noise.

A mixer or blender can become a real helper in the kitchen. Especially if preference is given to a fairly powerful model. When thinking about what to choose, the housewife, first of all, must understand her culinary preferences and which processes will be most often in demand during cooking.

Distinctive features of chopping and whipping devices

The differences between a blender and a mixer can be identified based on the purpose of use.

BlenderMixer
Equipped with paddle blade or replaceable attachmentEquipped with a pair of whisks and a kneading hook
Grinds and crushes even hard products wellBeats eggs, dough, cream, cocktails well
Creates a paste, mousse, pureeMix until smooth
Excellent for pureeing any food for main coursesSuitable for confectionery purposes
Due to additional attachments it can be a multifunctional deviceA highly specialized device aimed at whipping
Knife rotation speed up to 20,000 rpmRotation speed from 10,000 to 15,000 rpm
Overheats during prolonged useLong work is not scary for him
Can't cope with kneading doughNot very thick dough kneads exceptionally well
It turns out to be practical in preparing complex dishesIndispensable for baking

And if a blender with a whisk attachment, even if not ideally, can still knead pancake dough, an omelette or achieve a creamy consistency, then the mixer will not cope with any task that the blender knives can solve. If we evaluate in general, then in terms of functionality the blender certainly wins. However, if there is a need specifically for whipping a light, weightless mass, then you cannot do without a mixer.

  1. If desserts and all kinds of confectionery masterpieces are not alien to the housewife, and she primarily does this in the kitchen, then a mixer must be at hand. It will solve several problems at once - kneading dough, whipping cream.
  2. If you have kids in your family or have a love for culinary experiments, then it would be wise to purchase a blender device.
  3. And if cooking occupies the main place in the consumer’s life and he is ready to cook different dishes for days, then he should buy a multiblender with expanded functionality.

It is worth noting that the third option will really justify itself only if it is purchased for a lot of money from a trusted manufacturer. Cheap multiblenders turn out to be very weak and doubtfully cope with the assigned culinary tasks. This is explained by the fact that combined equipment, equipped with all kinds of attachments, actually loses in power and quality of performance of each individual task.


Of course, in the conditions of serious confectionery shops, it is unlikely that anyone will beat the dough using the whisk attachment of a blender. And yet, in amateur home kitchens, the mixer, as a separate device, is gradually ceasing to be in widespread demand. This is due to the fact that blenders have proven themselves to be multifunctional and cost-saving devices.

Although the devices discussed in certain situations can partially replace each other, they actually differ in their functionality and are not of the same type. So, having understood the difference between a blender and a mixer, and also having analyzed the purpose of the purchase, how much work and how often the device will perform, the consumer will not be mistaken in choosing a reliable kitchen device.

The blender is a little multi-functional wizard that has made it easier for women to work in the kitchen. Smoothies, cream soup, purees for children, airy dough for pancakes, pates - a compact submersible machine can handle this perfectly. The stationary unit has enough power to turn meat into tender minced meat, chop ice for cocktails, cut or grate vegetables (if you have the necessary attachment) and much more.

But, like any equipment, the blender is equipped with a fragile mechanism, and if you use it incorrectly, you will soon return to your old friend the grater.

Greens at room temperature

The metal blades of a blender can easily turn fiber-rich greens into brown mush. To preserve the juicy color, freeze the greens, and after 5 minutes add them to the blender - this is what chefs advise.

Fibrous vegetables with hard stems

We're talking celery, broccoli, cauliflower, tough salad greens. Believe me, even modern super-powerful high-speed blenders cannot cope with the fibers, and even if they do, you will be removing the residue from the knives for the next half hour.

Frozen fruit

Who doesn't love energizing fruit drinks? As long as they're fresh, knives do a great job cutting through the tender pulp, but what if you only have frozen fruit? Some people are so confident in the power of the blender that they throw frozen fruit into the bowl. It's good if you get a sorbet... In the worst case, the blades will break or become dull, and the glass (or plastic) of the container will crack. Remove the food from the freezer in advance and leave it for half an hour.

Hard grains and nuts

Only truly desperate housewives will stop grinding coffee beans, beans, mung beans or cocoa beans in a blender. To grind hard products, it is better to use a good coffee grinder with a powerful motor and reinforced blades.

Products with strong aroma

The smell of garlic and the bitterness of chilies and onions can be absorbed into the rubber seal and ruin the taste of the product you are mixing. You may have noticed that raw garlic in the blender jar overnight, even after two or three rinses, still leaves a subtle aroma. A morning cocktail with strawberries and piquant garlic is unlikely to please your taste.

Too little or too much liquid

When the blender works with solid products, you need to add a little water. This must be done carefully to avoid engine surge or water splashing out. The proportions must be correct. Not enough liquid - the blender will create lumps, too much - the blades will not come into contact with the product.

Bones

Professional cooks say that inexperienced cooks often make this mistake. When adding chicken or fish to a blender to make mince for meatballs or fish pies, it is important to make sure there are no bones in the meat. Household harvesters are different from industrial ones - even small bones are too much for them.

Meat

The perfect dish has layers of flavors and textures. Meat ground in a blender has a consistency that only kids will like. Of course, if you are preparing complementary foods for a baby, then a blender is a real savior for a young mother. But for juicy tender cutlets with a crispy crust, you only need a meat grinder.

Tools

Avoid putting any tools or small kitchen utensils into the blender while it is running: plastic, glass or wooden mortars are not suitable for pushing food pieces - they will crack and break easily. If you need to lightly stir the puree while the blender is running, use a metal spoon.

Sun-dried tomatoes

Unless you have a high-performance, high-speed blender, never try to puree sun-dried tomatoes; their tough skins will stick to the blades. If you still need sun-dried tomatoes, for example for sauce, soak them in water until they soften.

Tomato sauce

Potato

We think more than one housewife regretted that she tried to prepare mashed potatoes in a blender... Any starchy vegetables cannot be crushed at high speeds: the starch turns into a viscous paste, the mashed potatoes become sticky and tasteless. Modern models have a special attachment for potatoes.

Hot liquid

When preparing puree soup, do not pour soup that has not yet cooled into the bowl. Steam in a confined space can explode the lid: not only will the liquid fly around the kitchen, there is a risk of serious burns.

Dough

No self-respecting baker would make pie dough in a blender. Its texture will be hard and unsaturated with oxygen. An exception is batter for pancakes or pancakes.

Ginger

Do not put fresh or dried ginger in the blender. What will happen? Not a mush, but a solid lump of fibers. It is better to finely chop or grate it.

Bulk ingredients

If you put flour, sugar or cake mix into a blender, the powdery ingredients will stick to the sides of the bowl as you blend. It is better to add them to the liquid base through the hole in the lid and slow down.

A blender is the assistant that can provide you with fruit and vegetable smoothies, cream soups, sorbets, mousses, minced meat, whipped cream, ground coffee and crushed ice. In this material we will tell you how to choose a blender for your home and which device is better for you - stationary or immersion.

Which blender is better to choose, immersion or stationary?

In fact, the best blender is the one that best suits your needs. Let's look at each type in turn.

  • Immersion blenders consist of a plastic or metal “handle” with an internal motor and a rotating attachment (there may be several of them). Grinds, mixes and beats with an immersion blender in any container (yours or the one included with the device). Pros: compactness, mobility, ability to process small portions, ability to independently change the position of the knife (unlike stationary models), versatility due to the presence of attachments for different purposes. It turns out that one immersion blender can replace a food processor, coffee grinder, meat grinder, mixer, puree masher, etc.

Carrots, shredded and sliced ​​using the optional immersion blender attachment

Cons: the immersion blender needs to be held (however, this is not so difficult, since the device works quickly); If handled carelessly, the contents of the container may splash. Who should choose an immersion blender: those who prepare cocktails/soups most often from soft vegetables/fruits/berries, those who often need to prepare small portions (for example, fresh baby food for a child), those with .

  • Stationary blenders consist of a jug with a knife at the bottom and a base with a motor. Pros: the operation of the blender requires almost no participation from you; It is much more convenient to prepare soups and drinks for several people at once, and then immediately pour them into glasses. A stationary blender is cheaper than an immersion blender and is easier to care for, since most models have a self-cleaning function. Cons: its main drawback is the inability to prepare small portions (most often the volume of the product should be more than 250 ml). Compared to an immersion blender, a stationary machine is more bulky. Who should choose a stationary blender: for those who often prepare cocktails and smoothies, and in large quantities. For athletes, vegetarians and simply people adhering to a healthy lifestyle, this device is simply irreplaceable.

How to choose an immersion blender for your home

Step 1. Power

Power is the first most important criterion for choosing an immersion blender. It can be 140-1200 W. The more powerful the blender, the faster it works, the less likely it is to overheat, and the more solid foods it can handle.

  • To handle most tasks, an immersion blender should have at least 450 watts of power.
  • If you want to crush ice with a blender or process complex products (for example, meat or carrots), then you should purchase a device with a power of 600-800 W.

Step 2: Speeds and Modes

An immersion blender can have from 1 to 30 speeds. The more of them, the more accurately you can adjust the speed of rotation of the knife depending on the hardness of the product, your purpose or the height of the container (in low bowls, to avoid splashing, blend products at low speed).

  • After all, the higher the speed, the more thoroughly and quickly the blender chops, mixes and beats. But at low speeds, the blender works better with hard and viscous products.

Thus, if, for example, you want to prepare the most tender pate, then the boiled meat should be processed first at low speed, and then at the highest speed.

  • In fact, blenders with a wide range of speed settings are perhaps only needed by real chefs who prepare complex recipes. For most users, 5-8 speeds will be sufficient. A blender with two speeds is suitable for performing simple tasks.

In addition to a set of speeds, immersion blenders may have additional modes. Thus, almost all blenders have a turbo mode - a maximum speed mode, which is useful to turn on at the end of work in order to achieve a particularly uniform and delicate consistency of the dish. Some blenders have an Ice Chop and a Pulse mode. Ice crushing is needed, in fact, for crushing ice and making cocktails, as well as processing hard products, such as frozen fruits or nuts.

  • The pulse mode is also necessary for processing particularly hard products (including ice). But with it, the blender works with short pauses and only when the button is held down, so the motor does not overheat. The speed in pulse mode is adjusted by pressing the button, which is very convenient.

And one more point: the blender speeds can be switched smoothly or stepwise. The first option is somewhat more convenient.

Step 3. Attachments and equipment

Most hand blenders have three basic attachments: a blender attachment for chopping and blending, a whisk attachment for whisking, and a chopper in a bowl. The presence of other attachments for the blender is a big advantage, because thanks to them the device becomes more functional. Let's take a closer look at each type of nozzle.

  • Blender attachment. Grinds and mixes, copes with most tasks: preparing cream soups, smoothies, cocktails, etc. It has a knife at the end and a dome covering it, which is designed to minimize splashing. Most often, the knife of the main attachment cannot be changed, but sometimes there are models with removable knives for different purposes.

Steba MX 21 blender main nozzle with a set of interchangeable blades

  • Whisk for whipping. A whisk is needed for whipping cream, eggs, cream, mayonnaise, butter, kneading dough, etc. The whisk of a blender, like a mixer, can be drop-shaped (for liquid masses) or spiral (for thick masses). Most often, a blender has one whisk, but some models may have two mini whisks (pictured).

  • Chopper bowl. It is a bowl with a bladed leg installed in the center, which is operated by connecting a handle in the bowl lid.

The blender chopper is most often used to prepare minced meat.

The bowl can have one universal knife for chopping or several replaceable ones. For example, a disc for cutting any soft foods into slices, a potato grater (pictured) or an ice knife. The volume of the chopper bowl can be 0.35 - 2.2 liters.

  • Melnichka. It looks like a small bowl with a knife at the bottom. It is convenient to grind solid products in small quantities, for example, black peas, coffee beans, garlic, sugar, etc. The volume of the mill can be only 0.05 - 0.7 liters.
  • Vacuum pump. Pumps out air from special vacuum containers (provided in the kit or purchased separately), thanks to which the products are stored in them several times longer.
  • It has a plastic rather than metal blade that does not beat, but grates the potatoes at low speed, making it easy to turn them into a tender and uniform puree. This is a very useful addition to the blender, because its main attachment turns potatoes into an inedible paste.

Step 4. Material of the body and nozzles

The body, both the handle and the main blender attachment can be made of plastic or metal.

  • It is advisable that the nozzle be metal, then you can immerse the blender even in a pan of boiling soup. Plastic, on the other hand, can only handle moderately hot and warm foods, and it can break if dropped and wear out over time.
  • But the material of the pen body may well be plastic. Here you should focus only on your taste, and, say, the interior of the kitchen. The main thing is that the handle has rubberized inserts so that you can hold it firmly while the blender is operating.

Step 5: Wire/Battery

Most often, blenders have ordinary power cords up to 1.5 m long. But if you want to be able to process food while moving freely around the house, say, to keep an eye on your child, then you should choose a cordless immersion blender. True, due to the battery, the immersion blender weighs more than usual, its battery life is not too long (20-30 minutes), and its power is less.

How to choose a stationary blender (shaker)

Step 1. Power. The first thing you need to pay attention to when choosing a stationary blender is power. Most stationary blenders have a power of 500-900 W, but some home models have a power of 1200-1350 W.

  • The higher the motor power, the better the blender. And at the same time - noisier and more expensive.

Powerful models from 750 to 900 W are capable of processing nuts, frozen fruits/berries, crushing ice, preparing smoothies and thick creams well, for a long time and often. Models with a power of more than 1000 W are needed for beating dough. If you most often prepare non-frozen soft fruits and vegetables, then you shouldn’t overpay for high power, and a 600 W blender will cope with most tasks.

Step 2. Knives. Knives are the most important part of a blender after the motor. In a stationary device there can be 1 or 2 knives (with crossed blades).

  • The more blades the knife has, the faster the blender will chop food.

Knives come in a variety of shapes, but in general they can be divided into curved and straight.

  • Curved knives chop and mix food more thoroughly and evenly than straight ones.

It is desirable that the knives be large, made of high-quality and strong stainless steel.

Step 3. Volume of the jug. The size of the jug indicates the maximum amount of food you can prepare at one time. Depending on your needs, you can choose a device with a capacity of 1 to 2 liters. Keep in mind that the usable volume of the bowl is 200-300 ml less than the indicated total volume.

  • A blender with a large 1.5-2 liter jug ​​allows you to prepare pureed soups and cocktails for several people at once.
  • A blender with a 1-liter jug ​​is suitable for making cocktails for two to three people and baby food.
  • Some manufacturers also indicate the minimum weight of products that a blender can grind (most often this is 250 g/ml). If you load products of smaller weight/volume into the bowl, the device simply will not be able to chop them, but will only dirty the bowl.

By the way, pay attention to the presence of a measuring scale on the jug. In addition, we recommend choosing an appliance with a jug with a wider base rather than a narrow one. In a wide container it is more convenient to mix the contents, and it is also easier to wash.

Step 4. Base with motor block. When choosing a stationary blender, pay attention to the width and heaviness of its base. The larger and heavier it is, the more stable the device will be in operation. This is especially necessary when working at high speeds or processing solid products.

  • Rubber feet or pads are also needed to ensure stability of the base. Let them be very small, the main thing is that they exist.
  • It would be good if the base had a compartment for storing the cord (pictured).

Step 5. Materials. Now you need to decide on the material of the device, both the jug and the base.

  • The jug can be glass, plastic, metal or made of a composite material. Plastic is good because it is lightweight, easy to handle, reduces the cost of the device, but it tends to scratch and hot products cannot be processed in it (unless it is a special thermoplastic). A glass jug is heavier and therefore less convenient to handle, in addition, it can be broken. But it looks more beautiful, does not scratch, and most importantly, it can be processed hot. A metal bowl is good for everyone, but it is opaque and greatly increases the cost of the device. The ideal jug is a jug made of composite material. It is light, comfortable, durable, heat-resistant, the only negative is the high price. Whatever container you choose for your blender, make sure it allows...
  • The base of a stationary blender can be made of plastic or stainless steel. Plastic models are cheaper and weigh less, but they are less impact resistant. Stainless steel appliances are more expensive, they are stronger, weigh more and are therefore more stable. However, it cannot be said that the material of the base case provides any special advantages to the device, so choose based on your budget and taste. Let us only add that on black plastic and polished steel fingerprints, dirt stains, and scratches are more noticeable.

Step 6. Speeds. Blade rotation speed is another criterion for choosing a stationary blender. Modern models can have from 1 to 20 speed modes. Some devices have up to 30 speeds. Why does a blender need so many different speed settings? The fact is that the higher the rotation speed of the knife, the faster and more thoroughly the blender grinds the product, but this is not always necessary. So, for example, if you need to grind something to a homogeneous puree, then you should process the product at the highest speed. If you need to get smaller pieces, it is better to run the device at low speed. Thus, the more speed programs the device has, the more types of products it can process.

  • However, an ordinary blender with 4-6 speeds will successfully cope with most tasks.

Speed ​​controller

In addition to speed modes, a stationary blender can have a turbo mode and an impulsive mode.

  • Turbo mode is a mode that grinds food at the highest speed. It is better to include it at the very end of processing to achieve a homogeneous and delicate consistency.
  • Almost all models have a pulse mode, and some even have only it. The peculiarity of the pulse mode is that the knives rotate quickly and intensely, but with short pauses and only when the button is held down. Despite the speed and power of the motor while processing, say, ice, it does not overheat.

Step 7. Control Panel. The control panel is not the most important part of the device, but it is also worth paying attention to. A blender with touch buttons is easier to keep clean, but it will cost more. On the other hand, mechanical control (pictured) is more convenient (especially when changing gears) and is more familiar to many.

Step 8. Additional bonuses. Pleasant bonuses of the blender include the presence of: a spout or tap for direct dispensing of the product from the jug (pictured), a shutdown system for overheating, and a self-cleaning system.

And finally, we suggest watching another video with useful information and a visual demonstration of stationary and immersion blenders.

A blender is an excellent household appliance that quickly copes with chopping and thoroughly mixing ingredients. Using a blender, you can prepare a wide range of dishes: from cutlets and salad to a nutritious cocktail. It will help you knead a homogeneous dough or beat a soufflé, make soft puree for a child or chop vegetables. Unlike a food processor, a blender takes up little space. Unlike a mixer, a blender is a more powerful device with a wider range of functions.

This device is a godsend for a large family: it significantly reduces the housewife’s troubles.

Types of blenders:

  • stationary;
  • submersible (manual).

In a stationary blender, the knives are attached to the bottom of a plastic or metal container. Usually the containers (with different types of knives) are changed. You don’t need to hold such a device in your hands while working, but it takes up quite a lot of space. Often this blender is used for grinding coffee or in confectionery. These blenders are good for making sauces and cocktails. The volume of the crushed/whipped mass is limited by the volume of the container.

The hero of our rating today and the subject of close consideration is an immersion blender. When working, it is held in the hand, and special attachments are used to prepare various dishes. Using such a blender, the housewife is not limited by the capacity of the device, and she herself chooses how many products to mix and in what container. By purchasing an immersion blender, you decide from the very beginning how much food you will grind. Using such a blender, you can cut, knead or beat cold and hot masses, taking into account the material of the attachments. Special attachments are used for crushing crackers, nuts, and ice cubes.

How to choose the best blender?

1.​ Material. The blender can be made of iron or plastic. The plastic one is cheaper, but it is not for grinding solid products, and such a blender is not advisable when working with hot food. However, a plastic device wins in price.

2.​ Power. The housewife's hands will not get too tired when working with a powerful device: it very quickly does what is required of it. Models with a power of less than 350 W will not satisfy all the needs of the buyer.

3.​ Number of speeds– helps you choose the optimal operating mode for you, as well as expand the range of crushed products. Typically, an immersion blender has 2-5 speeds. Blenders with smooth speed control are especially good. We also recommend paying attention to models equipped with a turbo mode.

4.​ Equipment. Additional attachments are always a nice bonus to a good device. Usually all attachments find use. Thanks to them, home cooks become virtuosos in their kitchen.

  • So, metal knives They will prepare puree from any product, even meat. A housewife should think about purchasing a blender with such an attachment if she has a child or is cooking for an elderly person.
  • Egg whisk needed for making omelette, batter or cream.
  • French fries disc will be useful to any housewife. In some models, graters or shredders are attached to it.
  • Chopper gourmets enjoy it. It copes well with herbs, cheeses, and nuts.

5.​ Safe auto-off function. Blenders equipped with this function save your money. This can happen when the device overheats or is not used correctly. For example, if the housewife decided to crush ice with a puree attachment.

What should you remember when using a blender? (safety precautions)

  • Once you have chosen a blender and started using it, remember that children should not be allowed near it. A blender is not a toy.
  • Each blender has a working cycle, so before you start using the device, carefully read the instructions.
  • Do not overheat the blender during operation, keep the device clean, and it will serve you for many years.

We bring to your attention the best immersion blenders of 2019-2020. The rating is based on customer reviews.

5th place: blender SCARLETT SC-HB42M33 (RUB 1,859)

The model is good for its high power and simple design. The knife is equipped with four blades, one of which is curved, which improves the speed and result of chopping. This blade is positioned in the opposite direction and ensures that the food pieces are evenly sliced. The ergonomics of the model allows you to enjoy working with this device. This model is quite suitable for those who are considering budget options for blenders.

Model features

  • Power - 700 W,
  • Material of the immersion part of the blender is stainless steel,
  • Special knife shape
  • Two operating speeds
  • 600 ml measuring cup with silicone lid,
  • Mini chopper 600 ml,
  • Whisk attachment
  • The presence of a pulse mode,
  • Dimensions: 24*25.7*13 cm,
  • Weight – 1.5 kg.

Advantages of SCARLETT SC-HB42M32:

  • low price,
  • design,
  • suitable for any products,
  • the presence of a “turbo” mode,
  • design.

Flaws:

  • The nozzle for puree does not fit well,
  • nozzles are difficult to wash out.

4th place: Philips HR 1670 blender (RUB 2,965)

This is a fast, powerful model, equipped with 10 speeds, ice crushing and turbo modes. The capabilities of this blender are quite wide and will delight the chef. Smooth speed adjustment (SpeedTouch button) is a great addition to this model.

Characteristics:

  • Power - 800 W,
  • 10 operating speeds,
  • Measuring cup 1.2 l,
  • Mixer attachment – ​​2 whisks,
  • Soup maker,
  • Weight – 1.4 kg.

Advantages of Philips HR 1670:

  • power,
  • ergonomics,
  • possibility of speed control,
  • design,
  • doesn't make noise
  • washes well,
  • products do not splash,
  • You can buy additional attachments.

Flaws:

  • hard adjustment button,
  • There is no stand or box for storing attachments.

3rd place: blender Moulinex DD655832 (RUB 3,599)

According to customer reviews, the Moulinex DD655832 blender for 3,599 rubles takes 3rd place in the rating of immersion blenders. The model that has become the “golden mean” in the rating is very powerful and therefore works quickly. Thanks to its excellent functionality, this blender copes with any task. The model is also good because at high power it works quite quietly. All removable parts can be washed in the dishwasher.

Characteristics:

  • Power - 1000 W,
  • 10 speeds,
  • The material of the immersion part of the blender is metal,
  • Measuring cup 0.8 l,
  • Mini chopper,
  • Shredding container,
  • whisk,
  • Melnichka,
  • Weight – 1.3 kg,
  • Smooth speed control.

Advantages of the Moulinex DD655832 model:

  • high power,
  • metal case,
  • ergonomics,
  • rubberized handle,
  • Doesn't splash food
  • excellent shredder
  • quiet.

Flaws:

  • high price,
  • tight button
  • At first, the nozzles change poorly (with effort), but over time they begin to subside,
  • the buttons are recessed into the body.

2nd place: blender Braun 4200 MQ9087X (BK) (RUB 12,990)

The device is equipped with 11 nozzles, which makes it capable of crushing or placing almost any product. The model is characterized by high performance and reliability. The bell-shaped dome is a successful part of the design of this device. This prevents splashing of the crushed mass. Removable knives are equipped with a blade for crushing. This way the food pieces are evenly distributed. You will also like the comfortable rubberized handle. With this blender, you control the speed.

Model features:

  • Power - 1000 W,
  • The material of the immersion part of the blender is metal,
  • 2 bowls 1.5 and 0.35 l,
  • 6 speeds,
  • Mini chopper,
  • whisk,
  • Melnichka,
  • Attachment for mashed potatoes,
  • Grater – 2 pcs.,
  • Shredder,
  • French fries disc,
  • Dough attachment,
  • Weight – 2.08 kg,
  • Smooth speed control.

Pros of the Braun 4200 MQ9087X (BK) blender:

  • power,
  • work speed,
  • ergonomics,
  • reliability,
  • multifunctionality,
  • convenient and safe grater and shredder,
  • works quietly
  • does not splash food.

Minuses:

  • very high price
  • no place to store attachments,
  • no stand
  • no shredder for cubes.

1st place: blender PHILIPS HR1646/00 Avance Collection (RUB 4,219)

This immersion blender features an intuitive SpeedTouch control button and proprietary Promix blending technology. This technology was developed by Philips together with the University of Stuttgart. The lower part of the immersion blender has a wave-like shape, which prevents splashing.

The mixer attachment is equipped with two whisks. The device comes with a durable chopper for nuts, herbs, onions, and chocolate.

Characteristics:

  • Power - 700 W,
  • The material of the immersion part of the blender is metal,
  • Glass 1 l,
  • Mini chopper,
  • Nozzle with 2 whisks,
  • Whipping attachment
  • Attachment for chopping meat and vegetables,
  • Weight – 1.55 kg,
  • Smooth speed control,
  • Possibility of crushing ice.

Advantages of the PHILIPS HR1646/00 Avance Collection immersion blender:

  • The optimum ratio of price and quality,
  • excellent work results,
  • comfortable handle,
  • compactness,
  • design,
  • smooth gear shifting.

Disadvantages of the model:

  • very soft button.

Promising new product: immersion blender REDMOND RFP-CB2965(from 7330 rub.)

A promising new product for 2019, which belongs to the high price category, impresses with its power, build quality and advanced functionality. The operating speed of the device reaches 13400 rpm.

With this blender you can not only chop or beat foods, but also cut them into even cubes or slices.

Convenient multi-format blender glasses are suitable for comfortable work; they have measuring divisions and a beautiful design.

  • heavy;
  • takes up a lot of space;
  • short cord (1 m).
  • Let's summarize.

    An immersion blender deserves to be purchased due to its compactness, ease of choosing a container for stirring products, ease of working with any volume of products, and the quality of grinding and kneading. Buyers prefer immersion blenders with advanced functions. The presence of a container in the immersion blender kit does not matter much to users. More and more housewives are choosing very powerful devices. When choosing a blender, buyers pay great attention to ease of control and the presence of smooth speed control.

    The rating of immersion blenders 2019-2020 included very powerful models that perform a wide range of tasks. At the same time, modern housewives know that multifunctionality does not always allow one to really do one task efficiently: for example, an ordinary one will sometimes cope with its function better. It’s the same with other “narrow-profile” kitchen appliances like s. And no one will grind in a blender, right?

    In general, choose and buy exactly what you will use - and you will save not only your money, but also your nerves.

    Updated: July 2019