Vitamix 5200 Professional-Grade Blender, 64 oz Container, Black

The Vitamix 5200 blender is a high-powered countertop blender with a 2 HP motor and a tall 64 oz container. It uses a variable speed dial plus a high speed switch rather than preset programs.

Who it suits

It suits people who blend often: whole-fruit smoothies, vegetable soups, nut butters and purees. It stands over 20 inches tall with the container on, per America’s Test Kitchen, so measure under your cabinets first. If you mostly chop, slice and shred, the Cuisinart 14-cup food processor is the better fit. See more kitchen appliances.

Comparing options? Our healthy kitchen tools buying guide explains what to check on the label and spec sheet.

Key facts

• 2 HP motor and a 64 oz (8 cup) container (Vitamix; America’s Test Kitchen); the brand says the container is BPA-free Eastman Tritan copolyester (Vitamix)
• The brand describes laser-cut stainless steel hammermill and cutting blades (Vitamix)
• Cleans itself in 30 to 60 seconds with warm water and a drop of dish soap, no disassembly needed (Vitamix)
• Covered by a 7-year limited warranty (Vitamix; America’s Test Kitchen)

What reviewers say

America’s Test Kitchen named it its winning blender. Reviewed found it sturdy, well built and easy to control, but noted the height problem, shorter blades that mean more tamper use, and no presets like those on newer models.

Pros and cons

• Pro: Very smooth results and simple controls in America’s Test Kitchen testing
• Pro: Long 7-year limited warranty
• Pro: Self-cleans with soap and warm water
• Con: Too tall for many under-cabinet spaces
• Con: Narrow jar is hard to scrape out
• Con: No preset programs

Cautions

• Over 20 inches tall with the container on, per America’s Test Kitchen, so it may not fit under standard upper cabinets.
• Blades are sharp, and blending hot liquids builds pressure; follow the owner’s manual for hot ingredients and always use the lid.