Decent, reasonably-priced blender that isn't downright awful?

So I've been looking for a decent (read: won't break within 6 months) blender to make breakfast smoothies with, but I'm pretty much stumped. Basically everything below $200 has awful reviews, and all the other recommendations out there are for fairly expensive models. My needs are pretty basic, as far as blending goes… just a bit of water/milk, oats, protein powder, etc. I won't even bother with ice, let alone anything more difficult. I highly doubt the warranty process with these cheaper blenders will be successful or worthwhile, so… recommendations? I'm now thinking that handheld blenders might be the way to go, since there's simply less in them that could go wrong, but they aren't exactly optimal for making smoothies. A more expensive model simply isn't worth it for me, so it's either cheap (definitely below $200, around $100 would be best or $150 if it's worth it) or nothing.

Thoughts?

Comments

  • +1

    I highly recommend this one : http://www.target.com.au//p/russel-hobbs-multi-processor-rhm…

    They usually go on special with free salt and pepper grinders. I used it to make almond milk etc and have used the processor lots too.

    If your wanting something more compact for just smoothies etc I also use the george foreman mix and go, its great with ice too http://www.thegoodguys.com.au/buyonline/George_Foreman_Mix_a…

    There has been some complaints about the motor burning out, however just make sure you dont leave it on for ages and it'll be fine :) it doesnt take long anyway :)

    EDIT : after reading your post for what you want it for again i highly recommend the george foreman for you :) It comes with two bottles too and less mess, you can even pack it ready to blitz the night before for the morning

  • +1

    The George Foreman one might be worth a shot, but at only 300W I'm not terribly confident in it's ability. Still, for $35 it won't be a huge loss if it breaks, as opposed to some of the ~$100 ones I was looking at.

    • it actually is pretty good :) there is a new kambrook one, not sure how that one goes. ive had mine for 6 months so far and its still working great :) Its a great blender for the price and convenience

  • We have been using the Breville BBL300 for smoothies and whilst you may not have a need for ICE, we certainly use it with frozen fruit such as frozen berries, pinaple, bannana, mango etc.

    This usually sells for around $69 but can be had for $55 if you can bargain well at Good guys. $60 is still great price given its a glass 1.2L jug.

    Easy to clean also.

    • This was one of the models I was looking at. At first glance it looks like a good option with a reasonable price, but it has a 1.7/5 rating on productreview.com.au… so that put me off a bit. Pretty much all the lower-priced Breville models have similar reviews, so I'm not sure what to make of it.

  • I recommend the Ninja from Big W or Target. They Horne for around $99 every few months, on sale. The motor is really powerful, and it can crush ice to snow in seconds, just like the As Seen on TV ads. The version you get at these stores is a cut-down version of the TV model. You get a large and small jug with lids, and a small bowl for doing food processor type things.

    • Interesting, it looks like it has a pretty good review average all round. I like that it's more powerful and bigger than the options mentioned above, and the price is just about what I was hoping to spend. Thanks, I'll definitely look into it.

      • I am really happy with mine, had it since Xmas and it's not changed. Feels quite sturdily made. I know other people who have had theirs for couple of years, now, and still no problems. Also, buying from big w or target means returns, if necessary, should be easy. Good luck!

        • Damn, can't find it in BigW or Target. Looks like I might have to give the George Foreman a go.

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