Finding the right blender for your kitchen can streamline meal prep and expand your culinary capabilities. With numerous options available, a KitchenAid blender, known for its durability and performance, is a solid choice for any home cook. The key is selecting the model with the settings and features that best match your daily routines and cooking ambitions.
This roundup focuses on KitchenAid blenders that offer multiple settings, from simple speed controls to specialized ice-crushing and self-cleaning functions. Whether you need a cordless hand blender for ultimate mobility or a powerful countertop model for tough ingredients, understanding the distinct advantages of each can guide you to the perfect appliance for your countertop.
The Best KitchenAid Blenders for Versatile Blending
- KitchenAid Cordless Variable Speed Hand Blender with Chopper and Whisk
- KitchenAid K150 3 Speed Ice Crushing Blender with 2 Personal Jars
- KitchenAid K400 Variable Speed Blender – KSB4027, Black Matte, 56 oz
- KitchenAid KSB1575ER 5-Speed Blender with Opti-Slice Assembly
- KitchenAid KSB1325OB 12-Speed Blender with Glass Jar
- KitchenAid KSB1325CR 12-Speed Blender with Polycarbonate Jar
- KitchenAid KSB1325SS 12-Speed Blender with Stainless Steel Jar
- KitchenAid KSB4021OB 4-Speed Blender with 40-Ounce Glass Jar
KitchenAid Cordless Variable Speed Hand Blender with Chopper and Whisk
This cordless hand blender offers exceptional freedom in the kitchen, allowing you to blend directly in pots, bowls, or pitchers without being tethered to an outlet. Its rechargeable lithium-ion battery provides enough power to blend approximately 25 bowls of soup on a full charge, and a quick 20-minute charge is sufficient for preparing a smoothie or a single batch of soup. The variable speed control gives you command over the texture for everything from delicate emulsifications to chunky salsas.
Beyond blending, this versatile tool comes with a chopper attachment for small food prep tasks and a whisk for aerating creams and beating eggs. The battery indicator light ensures you are never caught off guard by a low charge. This setup is ideal for cooks who value a streamlined, multi-functional tool that minimizes cleanup and maximizes counter space.
KitchenAid K150 3 Speed Ice Crushing Blender with 2 Personal Jars
Designed for convenience and personal portions, the K150 includes two personal blender jars that function as both blending containers and to-go cups. This feature simplifies your routine—you can blend your smoothie and then attach a lid to take it with you, all without transferring liquids between containers. The dedicated ice-crush setting, combined with a unique asymmetric blade, can crush a half-tray of ice in under ten seconds, making it perfect for frozen drinks and smoothies.
The three optimally designed speeds provide versatility for various ingredients, ensuring you can achieve the right consistency for your recipes. This model is an excellent choice for individuals, busy families, or anyone who appreciates the efficiency of single-serve blending with the power to handle tough frozen ingredients reliably.
KitchenAid K400 Variable Speed Blender
The K400 blender is built with a sophisticated 3-part blending system that creates a powerful vortex for smooth, consistent results. The Intelli-Speed Motor Control intelligently senses the contents of the jar and automatically maintains the optimal speed to blend through tough ingredients like kale and whole almonds with ease. This technology helps you create perfectly smooth smoothies, soups, and nut milks without guesswork.
Cleaning is simplified with a self-clean cycle; just add a drop of soap and some water to the jar and let the blender handle the rest. With a 56-ounce capacity and variable speed control with a pulse function, this blender is a powerful and smart addition to any kitchen, capable of handling a wide range of tasks from the simplest to the most demanding.
KitchenAid KSB1575ER 5-Speed Blender with Opti-Slice Assembly
This 5-speed blender provides a straightforward and effective approach to food processing and blending. The included Opti-Slice assembly adds significant versatility, allowing you to easily slice fruits and vegetables for salads, garnishes, or other recipes. The five specific speed settings give you ample control to chop, mix, puree, or liquefy a variety of ingredients to your desired texture.
The model is designed for users who need more than just a liquid blender. It serves as a capable multi-tasker, reducing the need for multiple single-use appliances on your countertop. Its practical design and added slicing function make it a sensible choice for everyday meal preparation.
KitchenAid KSB1325OB 12-Speed Blender with Glass Jar
For those who prefer the classic feel and durability of glass, this 12-speed blender comes with a glass jar. Glass is known for its resistance to staining and odors, ensuring that your blender jar remains looking new over time. The twelve speed options provide a high degree of precision, from a very slow stir to a high-speed puree, giving you complete command over every blending task.
This model is ideal for traditionalists and anyone who values the non-porous qualities of glass. The wide range of speeds makes it suitable for delicate emulsions as well as powerful crushing tasks, offering professional-level control in a home appliance.
KitchenAid KSB1325CR 12-Speed Blender with Polycarbonate Jar
This version of the 12-speed blender features a durable polycarbonate jar. Polycarbonate is a lightweight yet tough material that is resistant to impact, making it a good option for busy kitchens where durability is a priority. Like its glass-jar counterpart, it offers twelve specific speeds for maximum control and consistent results with any recipe.
The combination of high functionality and a resilient container makes this a practical workhorse for daily use. It is an excellent choice for families or individuals who need a reliable and versatile blender that can withstand frequent use.
KitchenAid KSB1325SS 12-Speed Blender with Stainless Steel Jar
Offering a sleek, modern look, this blender includes a stainless steel jar. Stainless steel is exceptionally durable and opaque, which is beneficial for blending light-sensitive ingredients. The 12-speed dial ensures you have the right power for every task, from crushing ice to creating silky-smooth purees.
This model is suited for those who prioritize a contemporary aesthetic and the rugged, long-lasting performance of stainless steel. Its professional appearance and robust construction make it a standout appliance that is built to last.
KitchenAid KSB4021OB 4-Speed Blender with 40-Ounce Glass Jar
This compact 4-speed blender is an excellent solution for smaller kitchens or for those who typically prepare food for one or two people. The 40-ounce glass jar is a manageable size for everyday tasks like making smoothies, sauces, or dressings. The four simple speeds provide essential control without complexity, making it very user-friendly.
Its straightforward design and smaller footprint make it a practical and efficient choice for daily use where space is at a premium. You get the quality of a KitchenAid blender in a size that fits perfectly with a minimalist lifestyle or limited counter space.
Buying Guide: What to Look For in the Best KitchenAid Blenders with Multiple Settings
When I started looking for a new blender, I quickly realized that not all machines are created equal, especially when you want one with multiple settings. KitchenAid offers a range of models, and figuring out which one fits your kitchen can be a bit of a puzzle. Based on my research and experience, here’s what I think you should focus on.
First, consider the motor’s power. This is the heart of the blender. For tasks like crushing ice or making nut butters, you’ll want a robust motor, typically measured in peak horsepower. A more powerful motor handles tough jobs with less strain, which means it’s likely to last longer. I look for at least 1.2 peak horsepower for serious blending tasks. However, if you mostly make smoothies and purees, a slightly less powerful motor could be sufficient and more budget-friendly.
Next, pay close attention to the control panel and the variety of settings. The phrase “multiple settings” can mean different things. Some blenders offer simple low, medium, and high speeds with a pulse function. Others provide pre-programmed cycles for specific tasks like smoothies, soup, or ice crushing. I find that pre-programmed settings add a lot of convenience—they take the guesswork out of timing and speed, ensuring consistent results every time. Look for a model with settings that match what you actually plan to make.
The pitcher material is another key point. Most KitchenAid blenders come with either glass or BPA-free plastic jars. Glass is heavier and can chip if dropped, but it’s resistant to staining and won’t absorb odors from strong ingredients like garlic. Plastic is much lighter and more durable against accidental drops, which is a big plus in a busy kitchen. I prefer a plastic pitcher for everyday handling, but I appreciate a glass one for hot soups.
Finally, don’t overlook the smaller details. The shape of the pitcher and the design of the blades influence how well ingredients are pulled into the vortex for a smooth blend. A contoured four-point blade is often more effective than a simple two-point one. Also, check the capacity. A large family will need a 56-ounce or larger pitcher, while a couple or single person might find a 48-ounce size perfect. Easy cleaning features, like dishwasher-safe parts, are a huge time-saver that I always look for. By weighing these factors—power, settings, pitcher, and convenience—you can find the best KitchenAid blenders with multiple settings for your specific needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main advantage of having multiple settings on a blender?
The main advantage is consistency and ease of use. Instead of manually adjusting the speed and timing for different recipes, the pre-programmed settings do the work for you. For example, a “smoothie” setting will run a specific sequence of speeds and durations designed to perfectly blend frozen fruit and ice without leaving chunks. This takes the guesswork out of blending and helps you achieve professional results at home, whether you’re making a silky soup or a crushed frozen drink.
Are KitchenAid blender pitchers dishwasher safe?
This depends on the specific model, but the vast majority of KitchenAid blender pitchers, lids, and blade assemblies are dishwasher-safe on the top rack. It is always a good idea to double-check the user manual for your particular model to confirm. Handwashing is often recommended for the base unit itself, which should only be wiped down with a damp cloth. I always put the plastic pitchers in my dishwasher without any issues.
Can I use my KitchenAid blender to make hot soup?
Yes, you absolutely can. Many of the best KitchenAid blenders with multiple settings come with a “soup” function. This program typically blends at a high speed for a sustained period, and the friction from the blades generates enough heat to cook raw vegetables and create a hot, smooth soup. If your model doesn’t have a specific soup setting, you can blend hot ingredients (that you’ve cooked on the stove) using the high-speed setting, but be very careful to allow steam to escape and never fill the pitcher to the very top with hot liquid.
How do I clean the blade assembly on my blender?
Cleaning the blade assembly is crucial because food particles can get stuck underneath it. The safest and easiest method is to rinse it immediately after use. For a deeper clean, fill the pitcher with warm water and a drop of dish soap, then run the blender on a low speed for 30 seconds. Rinse thoroughly. Most blade assemblies can also be unscrewed from the bottom of the pitcher for a more thorough hand wash. Just be very careful of the sharp blades during handling.
What should I do if my blender seems underpowered or struggles with ice?
If your blender is struggling, first make sure you are using the correct setting. The “ice crush” setting is designed for that specific task. Also, check the order you are adding ingredients. For best results, add liquids first, followed by softer ingredients, and put the hardest or frozen items on top. This helps the blades create a vortex more easily. Overfilling the pitcher can also cause the motor to strain. If it continues to struggle with normal loads, the motor might not be powerful enough for your regular needs.