This powerful motor creates incredibly smooth textures for everything from silky soups to frozen desserts in seconds. That’s the promise of the vitamix blender e520, and it’s one it absolutely delivers on. You can forget about lumpy sauces or icy chunks in your smoothie. It just pulverizes ingredients into a perfect, velvety consistency every single time.
But is this the right high-performance blender for your kitchen? We put it through it’s paces to find out. From morning juices to weeknight dinners, here’s how the E520 stacks up in real, daily use and whether it’s worth the investment for you.
Product Comparison Table: 10 Best Vitamix Blender E520
| Image | Why We Like This Product | Editor’s Rating | |
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Vitamix Propel Series 750 Professional-Grade Blender with Four Blending…
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9.8 |
Read Review |
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Vitamix E310 Explorian Blender, Professional-Grade, Self-Cleaning 48 oz. Container,…
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9.6 |
Read Review |
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Vitamix Ascent X5 Blender with 10 Blending Programs, Self-Cleaning…
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9.4 |
Read Review |
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Vitamix 5200 Blender, Professional-Grade, 64 oz. Container, White
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9.2 |
Read Review |
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Vitamix Ascent X2 Blender with Three Blending Programs, Self-Cleaning…
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9.0 |
Read Review |
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Vitamix 62826 Vita-P 3, 44 Oz Blender
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8.8 |
Read Review |
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Vitamix 62828 Drink Machine Two Speed Blender
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8.6 |
Read Review |
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Vitamix Ascent X4 Blender with Five Blending Programs, Self-Cleaning…
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8.4 |
Read Review |
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Vitamix E320 Explorian Blender Black
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8.2 |
Read Review |
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Vitamix Explorian E520 Blender with Tumblers
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8.0 |
Read Review |
Quick Review For Top 10 Vitamix Blender E520
Vitamix Propel Series 750 Professional-Grade Blender with Four Blending Programs for Smoothies, Soups and More, Self-Cleaning, Stainless-Steel Blades, 64 Oz Container, Black
The Vitamix Propel Series 750 Professional-Grade Blender is a powerful kitchen tool designed to handle a wide range of tasks with consistent, professional results. It’s built to be a reliable workhorse for your daily blending needs, from morning smoothies to evening soups.
At the core of this blender is a robust 2.2 horsepower motor. This motor provides the power needed to completely break down tough ingredients. You won’t find chunks of frozen fruit or fibrous greens in your blends.
It creates a smooth, even texture everytime, making it a significant upgrade from typical countertop blenders.
This model simplifies the blending process with its four pre-programmed settings. You have dedicated programs for Smoothie, Hot Soup, Frozen Dessert, and Dip & Spread. These programs take the guesswork out of achieving the perfect consistency. For more control, there are 10 variable speed settings and a pulse function.
The pulse is great for tasks like chopping vegetables or crushing ice without over-processing.
The included 64-ounce container is BPA-free and dishwasher-safe. Its low-profile design is a smart feature; it holds a large capacity but can still tuck neatly under most standard kitchen cabinets. The container is engineered to create a powerful vortex, pulling ingredients down toward the laser-cut, stainless-steel blades.
Vitamix E310 Explorian Blender, Professional-Grade, Self-Cleaning 48 oz. Container, Black
The Vitamix E310 Explorian Blender is a professional-grade machine designed for everyday home use. It brings the power and precision of commercial blending into your kitchen without the complexity. This model is built to handle a wide variety of tasks, making it a versatile core appliance for preparing meals and snacks.
At the heart of the E310 is its variable speed control. You get ten distinct speeds to work with. This lets you fine-tune textures with real culinary precision.
You can start slow for gentle mixing and ramp up to high for perfectly smooth purees and soups. The pulse feature works alongside this, giving you bursts of power. It’s perfect for creating chunky salsas or coarse chops, allowing you to layer textures in heartier recipes. You have complete control over the outcome.
The blender comes with a 48-ounce container, which is an ideal size for small to medium batches.
It’s great for preparing meals for a family or having leftovers for the next day. You won’t have to worry about it struggling with tough ingredients. The blades are made from hardened, aircraft-grade stainless-steel. They’re built to crush through ice, frozen fruit, nuts, and fibrous vegetables with consistent reliability. From the first blend to the thousandth, you can expect the same high-quality results.
Cleanup is often the worst part of blending, but the E310 simplifies it.
Vitamix Ascent X5 Blender with 10 Blending Programs, Self-Cleaning Program, Professional-Grade Blender for Smoothies, Soups and More, Stainless-Steel Blades, 48 Oz Container, Brushed Stainless
The Vitamix Ascent X5 Blender is a professional-grade countertop appliance designed to handle a wide range of kitchen tasks with precision and ease. It’s built to be a reliable partner for everything from your morning smoothie to homemade soups and nut butters.
At its core, the Ascent X5 features ten pre-programmed settings that take the guesswork out of blending. You can select a dedicated program for smoothies, frozen desserts, soups, dips, nut butters, and even non-dairy milks.
This means consistent results every time you press a button. If your blend needs a little extra time, the handy ‘Add 15 Seconds’ function lets you easily extend any program. For manual control, intuitive touch buttons and variable speed dials give you full command, and the digital timer helps you follow recipes accurately. The pulse function is particularly effective for tasks like crushing ice.
A standout feature is the on-screen tamper indicator.
When you’re working with thicker mixtures like frozen desserts or nut butters, the blender will actually prompt you to use the included tamper. This helps push ingredients into the laser-cut, stainless-steel blades for a perfectly smooth texture without having to stop and scrape the sides. Speaking of cleanup, the self-cleaning program is a major convenience.
Vitamix 5200 Blender, Professional-Grade, 64 oz. Container, White
The Vitamix 5200 Blender is a professional-grade kitchen tool built for serious blending. Its core design centers on giving you control and consistency for everything you make. At the heart of the system is the Variable Speed Control dial. This isn’t just a few preset buttons; you can rotate the dial at any time during blending to fine-tune texture, from chunky salsa to perfectly smooth nut butter. This level of adjustment means you’re not limited by the machine’s programming.
For handling family meals or prepping for gatherings, the 64-ounce container is a key feature. Its size and shape are engineered to blend medium to large batches efficiently. The container is also self-cleaning—just add a drop of dish soap and some warm water, run the machine for 30 to 60 seconds, and you’re done. It’s a real time-saver after making big recipes. The container works with hardened stainless-steel blades that are built to last.
These aircraft-grade blades are tough enough to pulverize whole fruits, frozen items, and even hard ingredients like grains without dulling, ensuring your results are consistant from the first use to the thousandth. A standout funtion of the Vitamix 5200 is its ability to make hot soups. The powerful motor and blade design create enough friction heat to turn cold ingredients into a steaming, smooth soup in roughly six minutes. You can cook right in the blender, which simplifies your process.
Vitamix Ascent X2 Blender with Three Blending Programs, Self-Cleaning Program, Professional-Grade Blender for Smoothies, Soups and More, Stainless-Steel Blades, 48 Oz Container, Shadow Black
The Vitamix Ascent X2 Blender is a professional-grade countertop appliance designed to handle a wide range of kitchen tasks. It’s built to be a reliable partner for everything from your morning smoothie to a hot evening soup, focusing on consistent results and user-friendly operation.
At its core is a powerful 2.2 horsepower motor. This motor provides the neccessary torque to break down tough, fibrous ingredients and frozen fruit without leaving chunks behind.
It works in tandem with laser-cut, stainless-steel blades that are engineered to crush ice and nuts effectively. The combination aims for smooth textures and reliable performance over many years of use.
This model includes three automatic blending programs for Smoothies, Frozen Desserts, and Soups. These programs take the guesswork out of timing, helping to ensure your textures come out right each time.
For more control, you have variable speed settings and a pulse function at your fingertips. A digital timer on the base is a helpful feature for manual blending, letting you track your process for precision.
The included 48-ounce container is BPA-free and dishwasher-safe. It’s designed to create a strong vortex for efficient blending and is suitable for small to medium batches. A key feature of the Ascent series is its SELF-DETECT technology.
Vitamix 62826 Vita-P 3, 44 Oz Blender
The Vitamix 62826 Vita-Prep 3 Blender is a professional-grade machine built for serious blending tasks. With its large 44-ounce container, it’s designed to handle substantial batches, making it a reliable choice for kitchens that need consistent, high-performance results. This isn’t a gadget for occasional use; it’s a tool for those who blend frequently and demand precision from their equipment. A key feature of this model is it’s manually-operated variable speed control.
This gives you complete command over the texture of everything you make. You can start slow to gently incorporate dry ingredients or pulse for controlled chops, then ramp all the way up to top speed for the smoothest purees and soups. This level of manual control is what allows for true customization in your recipes. You’ll notice the start/stop switch automatically returns to the neutral position when you let go.
This is a significant safety and convenience feature, ensuring the blender doesn’t run unintentionally and giving you a definitive off point between pulses. It makes the blending process feel more intuitive and secure, especially when you’re managing multiple tasks. The accelerator tool is another professional touch. This unique lid attachment is designed to guide ingredients down into the blades during high-speed operation.
Vitamix 62828 Drink Machine Two Speed Blender
The Vitamix 62828 Drink Machine Two-Speed Blender is a straightforward, high-performance appliance designed for busy kitchens. Its core purpose is to handle frequent, demanding blending tasks reliably. If you regularly make large batches of smoothies, soups, or frozen drinks for a family or group, this model’s build and capacity are worth considering.
At the heart of this blender is a 2.3 peak horsepower motor.
The enhanced motor design is a key feature, as it’s built to manage back-to-back blends without overheating. This means you can prepare a smoothie pitcher, immediately clean the container, and then blend a soup without needing to give the machine a long cooling break. It’s about consistent performance under continued use, which is a practical concern in an active household.
The blending container is a 64-ounce Tritan plastic jug.
This material is lighter than glass, making it easier to handle when full, and it’s resistant to odors and stains compared to some other plastics. The size is ideal for creating enough content for several servings at once. The two-speed operation, combined with intuitive controls, simplifies the blending process. You won’t find a complex panel of buttons; the design minimizes training time, so almost anyone in the home can use it effectively without confusion.
Vitamix Ascent X4 Blender with Five Blending Programs, Self-Cleaning Program, Professional-Grade Blender for Smoothies, Soups & More, Stainless-Steel Blades, 48 Oz Container, Brushed Stainless
The Vitamix Ascent X4 Blender is a powerful and intuitive kitchen tool designed to handle a wide range of tasks with consistency and ease. It’s built to be a reliable partner for your daily blending, from morning smoothies to evening soups.
This model comes ready to use with a 48-ounce BPA-free container, perfect for small to medium batches. The container creates a powerful vortex to pull ingredients down toward the laser-cut, stainless-steel blades.
These blades are tough enough to power through frozen fruit, crush ice, and handle fibrous greens, ensuring smooth results for years. The entire container is dishwasher-safe for simple cleanup.
Operation is straightforward with intuitive touch controls. Five pre-programmed settings take the guesswork out of making smoothies, frozen desserts, soups, frozen cocktails, and dips & spreads. Each program is optimized for time and speed to deliver consistent textures.
If you need a little more time, the ‘Add 15 Seconds’ button lets you easily extend any program. For manual control, variable speed settings and a pulse function give you complete control over your creations.
A helpful digital timer counts down when your using manual speeds, which helps you follow recipes precisely. The blender also features an on-screen tamper indicator.
Vitamix E320 Explorian Blender Black
The Vitamix E320 Explorian Blender Black is a serious kitchen tool designed for everyday power and reliability. It’s built to handle a wide range of tasks, from simple smoothies to more demanding food prep, without taking up a huge amount of counter space. Let’s look at what you get in the box and how its features translate to real use. At its heart is a robust 2.2 peak horsepower motor.
This provides the consistent torque needed to blend tough ingredients like frozen fruits, leafy greens, and even nuts for butters. It powers through ice with a smooth, even vortex that pulls everything down toward the blades. You won’t find yourself stopping to push ingredients down with a tamper, as this model is designed to create that efficient flow on its own.
The motor is backed by a substantial 7-year warranty, which speaks to the confidence Vitamix has in its durability and long-term performance. It comes with a 64-ounce low-profile container made from BPA-free Tritan plastic. This material is tough and resists odors and stains from things like turmeric or berries. The low-profile shape fits easily under standard kitchen cabinets, which is a nice plus for storage.
Vitamix Explorian E520 Blender with Tumblers
The Vitamix Explorian E520 Blender with Tumblers is a versatile kitchen tool designed to handle a wide range of tasks with consistent power and control. It’s built to be your go-to appliance for everything from a quick morning drink to a full family meal, focusing on functionality and durability.
At the heart of the E520 is its motor base with 10 variable speeds.
This gives you precise control over texture, whether you’re gently mixing a chunky salsa or achieving a perfectly smooth puree. The pulse feature is right there for those times you need short, powerful bursts to finish a recipe without over-processing it. You can manually adjust through all the speeds to get exactly the result you want for any ingredient.
For added convenience, it includes three programmed settings: Smoothies, Hot Soups, and Frozen Desserts.
These automated cycles take the guesswork out of timing. The Hot Soup program, for instance, can blend raw vegetables and broth into a steaming, creamy soup in about six minutes using friction heat. The Frozen Desserts setting helps you create a consistent, soft-serve texture from frozen fruit. It’s a helpful feature that simplifies complex tasks.
The blender comes with a 64-ounce low-profile container.
Vitamix Blender E520 Buying Guide
The Vitamix E520 blender provides professional power and preset programs for home use. But is it teh right fit for your kitchen? This guide breaks down the key factors to consider before you decide, helping you see if its features match your daily needs.
Power and Motor Performance
You need a motor that won’t hesitate. The E520’s 2.2-peak-horsepower motor handles tough jobs easily. Think frozen fruit for smoothies, nuts for butter, or even hot soups from friction. It’s the difference between a blend that’s smooth and one with annoying chunks. This consistent power is what you’re paying for.
Preset Program Convenience
Do you want to just press a button? The five pre-programmed settings—for smoothies, hot soups, dips, frozen desserts, and self-cleaning—take the guesswork out. No more wondering about speed or time. It’s perfect for busy mornings or when you want consistent results without babysitting the machine. Just add your ingredients and select the program.
Container Size and Design
Consider what you’ll make most often. The 64-ounce low-profile container is great for larger batches for families or meal prep. However, for single-serving smoothies or smaller quantities of sauces, you might need to make a larger amount or get an extra smaller container later. The wide base design fits easily under standard cabinets, which is a nice space-saving touch.
Noise Level Expectations
Let’s be real—it’s a powerful blender, not a whisper-quiet device. When crushing ice or pulverizing nuts, it generates a significant roar. It’s not unusual, but it’s something to note if you have a open-plan living space or early-rising housemates. The noise is a trade-off for the performance you get.
Value and Warranty
This is an investment appliance. The seven-year full warranty provides excellent long-term peace of mind, covering parts, labor, and even shipping. When you compare this to blenders that last only a year or two, the E520’s durability and support make its higher upfront cost more reasonable over time. It’s built to be your kitchen workhorse for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions About Vitamix Blender E520
What makes teh E520 different from other Vitamix models?
The E520 is part of the Explorian Series. It’s a fantastic entry point into Vitamix quality. It has a powerful motor but comes with simpler controls than some premium models. You get five preset programs for common tasks, which is really helpful.
Is it good for making hot soups?
Yes, absolutely! The motor is strong enough to blend ingredients at high speed. This creates friction heat, which can warm your soup right in the container. Just run it for five to seven minutes. You’ll get a smooth, hot soup without using the stove.
Can it crush ice and make frozen desserts?
It sure can. The hardened stainless-steel blades and powerful motor handle ice with ease. You can make smooth sorbets, milkshakes, and smoothie bowls. For best results, use the tamper to push ingredients toward the blades.
How loud is this blender during operation?
It’s a powerful blender, so it does generate sound. Most users find it’s comparable to other high-performance blenders. It’s not quiet, but the noise is a sign of it’s power working for you. Using it on a lower speed for some tasks can help a bit.
What comes in the box with the E520?
You get the blender base, a 64-ounce low-profile container, a tamper, and the owner’s manual. The container is BPA-free and designed to fit under most kitchen cabinets. The tamper is essential for thicker recipes.
Is the container dishwasher safe?
The plastic container is top-rack dishwasher safe for easy cleaning. The blade assembly is permanently attached, so you don’t have to worry about taking it apart. Many people just rinse it with warm water and a drop of soap immediately after use.
What is the warranty on this model?
Vitamix offers a full 5-year warranty on the E520. This covers defects in materials and workmanship. It’s a strong warranty that shows the company’s confidence in their product’s durability.
Bottom Line
The Vitamix E520 is a powerhouse for smooth blends; it stands as a top choice for serious home enthusiasts. You get a machine built to last, with teh performance to handle everything from silky soups to thick nut butters. It simplifies your routine by replacing several single-use gadgets. The straightforward controls mean you spend less time figuring things out and more time enjoying your creations.
For anyone wanting a reliable, high-performance kitchen workhorse, this model is a fantastic investment. It consistently delivers excellent results, batch after batch. The vitamix blender e520 proves its value by making tough jobs seem easy, helping you cook and prep with real confidence. It’s a tool that truly earns it’s place on your counter.