How to Determine Which Immersion Blender Is Right for You

Learn how to select an immersion blender before making a purchase. This straightforward guide to purchasing an immersion blender will help you find the ideal kitchen appliance. 

An immersion blender is an indispensable kitchen tool that can aid in preparing every dish, from appetizers to desserts. Even though the kitchen aisle at your local big-box retailer may feel crowded, purchasing a suitable model is straightforward if you consider a few factors. Follow these tips, and you will have a durable, versatile hand blender worth the investment. 

Why is an immersion blender necessary? 

Immersion blenders can improve the texture of soups, milkshakes, and mayonnaise in less time than it takes to toast bread. This kitchen tool has countless applications. These blenders are convenient when you need to puree hot items, such as soup or sauce, because you can do so directly in the pot without transferring boiling liquids to a blender. 

What is the difference between hand blenders and immersion blenders? 

Yep! This device is also referred to as a stick blender or a wand blender. (We adore that last name because the machine performs miracles!) 

Immersion Blender vs. Traditional Blender 

The first consideration is whether the immersion blender will replace a countertop blender. Immersion blenders are lighter, easier to clean, and take up less space in the kitchen than traditional blenders, but many models lack the same power level. 

Although many immersion blenders advertise their ability to crush ice, we’ve discovered that traditional blenders like this are superior. The powerful motor of an immersion blender will allow it to cut through frozen fruit, not ice cubes. 

Cord vs. Cordless 

Are there numerous outlets in your kitchen, or is there only one behind the coffee maker? Immersion blenders are available as both corded and cordless models. Cordless models are typically weaker and work best with easily blended substances, such as homemade mayonnaise and frosting. 

Speed & Power 

Most inexpensive immersion blenders have only one or two-speed settings. In most cases, you won’t need anything fancier than that. If you intend to chop raw carrots or frozen fruit, search for a blender between 200 and 250 watts. 

Can It Be Easily Cleaned? 

Some immersion blenders can be cleaned in the dishwasher, whereas others must be washed by hand. Choose a dishwasher-safe attachment if simple cleanup is essential and save yourself the scrubbing. 

How Much Are Immersion Blenders? 

This depends on the type of immersion blender you select. The Cuisinart Smart Stick ($70) is a high-end blender that comes with additional accessories such as a whisk, a 4-cup beaker, and a potato masher. It is the favorite immersion blender in our Test Kitchen! 

If the Cuisinart is out of your price range, you need not worry. The Taste of Home’s Test Kitchen was also highly rated the $40 KitchenAid 2-Speed Hand Blender and the $30 Chefman 300-Watt Hand Blender. 

Are There Any Accessories? 

A hand blender’s sole purpose is to blend. However, many contemporary models include attachments that can slice like a food processor and whisk like a hand mixer. Versions with additional accessories will be more expensive and replace other kitchen appliances. Accessories-free blenders are the simplest to operate and store. 

Now that you know what to look for, selecting a new immersion blender will be simple. Blend one of our favorite recipes that calls for a stick blender once you obtain your new kitchen tool.