7 REVIEWED IMMERSION BLENDERS THAT WILL BE THE BEST IN 2023

These hand blenders whip up soups, sauces, and smoothies in a flash.

You may blend and puree meals without transferring them to a large blender by using immersion blenders, also known as hand blenders, stick blenders, or wand mixers. Some blenders are made as a single piece, and the blender arm that holds the blades cannot be detached from the motor. Others feature beaters similar to those on a hand mixer, a whisk, or a small food processor that may be added to the blender arm's engine. The best models, regardless of kind, can perform both large tasks like blending smoothies and pureeing soups right in the pot as well as little tasks like preparing mayo or salad dressing.

In our most recent test, the experts in the Good Housekeeping Institute Kitchen Appliances and Technology Lab evaluated 13 models to identify those that were simple to assemble, comfortable to use and provided the promised performance. We produced mayonnaise, soup, and smoothie purees to test each immersion blender. To determine the best options, we also considered the weight, power, and settings of each model.

OUR TOP PICKS:

1. BREVILLE CONTROL GRIP IMMERSION BLENDER

PROS

• Easy to use and operate

• Comfortable to grip for long periods

• Useful, dishwasher-safe attachments

CONS

• Blending cup can be too large for some tasks

Weight

3.8 lbs.

Number of speeds

15

Accessories

Whisk, 3-cup chopping bowl, 42-oz. jug with lid

Dishwasher

safe blending arm, whisk, and chopper

Our top selection, with 15-speed options and a tonne of amazing features, is this immersion blender. The blade guard of the Breville is specially constructed to lessen the vortex that some models produce, which sucks food into the blades and causes suction on the bottom of the container. This makes it easier to elevate the tool as you blend and helps prevent splatters. Although it needs more up-and-down motion to mix evenly, we still found it to be simple to use. The "on" button is simple to hold down, and the rubber handle is soft, thin, and comfortable to hold. Because the blender arm's edge is nonstick, you can blend in your pots without worrying about getting them scratched. Clips for the blender attachment.

The 42-ounce covered mixing jar included with this product was the largest one we tested, making it useful for larger amounts but more difficult to use for smaller portions. During our experiment, we discovered that the jar was too big to make a small-batch mayonnaise, but the blender itself produced lovely mayo in a smaller container. The jar's lid can be used to support the jar while blending by acting as an anti-slip pad. We appreciate that it can also hold the chopper attachment so you may use the handle on the blending cup. The food processor and whisk attachments are also included with this model, and each attachment is dishwasher-safe.

2. HAMILTON BEACH TWO-SPEED HAND BLENDER

PROS

• Affordable

• Quickly purees soup

CONS

• Cumbersome to operate for longer periods

For blending softer items like soups, milkshakes, whipped cream, and sauces, this inexpensive immersion blender works great. It has the smallest motor of any we tested (225 watts), yet it was still capable of blending a pot of soup to a smooth consistency in less than 90 seconds. It has two easy-to-press big buttons that regulate two blending rates (high and low).

This immersion blender has the shortest shaft (5 inches) of all the ones we examined, making it ideal for small-batch blending but challenging to use in a deep container like a large pot of soup. Both the whisk and the food processor attachment that come with it can be cleaned in the top rack of a dishwasher. Do not forget the plastic handle.is difficult to grip because to its large circumference and little slickness, especially if you have small hands. Compared to other models we looked at, the blending attachment didn't feel as solid.

3. KITCHENAID TWO-SPEED HAND BLENDER

PROS

• Powerful enough to blend even hard, tough foods

• Available in a variety of fun colors

• Tangle-free cord

CONS

• Lacks additional accessories

This KitchenAid immersion blender, one of the more cheap models we evaluated, wowed us with its quality. Quite quiet, strong, and simple to use, it rapidly became our preferred blender for smoothies. Our smoothie's ice and entire strawberries were easily combined with it to create a smooth, drinking consistency. Additionally, compared to other immersion blenders we tested, it didn't suction to the bottom of containers as much. The blender attachment is also dishwasher-safe for simple cleanup.

The robust power chord that doesn't bunch up or become tangled is one of our favorite features. Although if you'd like no cable at all, we were particularly thrilled with KitchenAid's cordless device for smoothies. This is useful when attempting to maneuver around a busy countertop.

Additionally, the trigger is simple to pull and the handle has been rubberized for a comfortable grip. Although it doesn't come with many extras, it does include a 3-cup mixing jar with a lid that makes it simple to store leftover smoothies or dressing in the refrigerator. However, we wish the jar had a top for simple pouring.

Weight

2 lbs.

Number of speeds

Two

Accessories

Blending arm, 3-cup blending jar with

dishwasher

safe blending arm, blender jar, and lid

4. VITAMIX IMMERSION BLENDER

PROS

• Emulsified mayo with ease

• LED light indicators for speed

CONS

• The heaviest motor in our tests

• Accessories sold separately

Weight

2 lb. 11 oz.

Number of speeds

Five

Accessories

None

Dishwasher

safe blending arm only

This straightforward immersion blender from Vitamix created a thick and smooth berry smoothie in our tests. But what really impressed us was its ability to create a quick mayonnaise that was silky and flavorful. It emulsified the mixture easily within two minutes. While it was the heaviest motor in our tests, we found the grip comfortable to hold. We also appreciated that the speed settings are clearly marked with lighted indicators. It also has a scratch-resistant material on the tip of the blade guard that allows you to puree soup in your pots without damaging them.

5. BRAUN MULTIQUICK 7-HAND BLENDER

PROS

• Adjustable blade height

• All four attachments are dishwasher-safe

CONS

• Blade attachment collects water and must be dried thoroughly

Weight

1.9 lbs.

The speed

variable speed depends on how hard you press the button

Accessories

Blending arm, 20-oz beaker, whisk, 2-cup chopper

Dishwasher

safe blending arm, beaker, whisk, and chopper

The Braun includes a variable speed button, unlike the other immersion blenders we examined; the harder you press it, the more forcefully it mixes. Additionally, by pressing down on the handle while mixing, you may change the blade's height. By lowering the blade, you can blend smaller amounts, increasing adaptability. In our experiments, this function enabled it to produce a thick, even, and rich smoothie. It contains a little blade guard in the form of a bell that has no vents, so you can remove food that could otherwise get lodged around the vents without having to stop the blender. It has a mixing bowl, food processor, and whisk attachment that is dishwasher-safe.

6. CUISINART SMART STICK VARIABLE SPEED HAND BLENDER

7. ALL-CLAD CORDLESS RECHARGEABLE HAND BLENDER

If you don't want to be tied down to one position in the kitchen or if there isn't an outlet beside your stove, a cordless immersion blender is a wise alternative. In our tests, the rechargeable battery on this All-Clad model operated for almost 15 minutes at high speed while fully charged (from empty, it took roughly two hours). Keep in mind that the charging unit will require a little amount of counter space.

We also like the security function, which involves unlocking it with the top button and operating it with the trigger. If you don't pull the trigger after 30 seconds, it will lock itself. The grip, which is short, cozy, and non-slip, and the blade attachment are composed of steel stainless. Its power impressed us, and it boasts one of the quieter motors of those we tested. It is also available in a less-priced corded model.

HOW WE TESTED THE IMMERSION BLENDER

We test each immersion blender by blending a smoothie, producing mayonnaise, and pureeing soup right in the pot when the experts in the Good Housekeeping Institute Kitchen Appliances and Innovation Lab evaluate them.

The smoothie test determines a blender's capacity to process entire strawberries and ice. The mayonnaise test measures an ingredient's ability to emulsify, which must proceed gradually and smoothly to create stability. The soup test demonstrates how well the blender handles huge amounts of components, such as potato and broccoli, without splattering or producing chunks.

We also take into account each machine's weight, comfort, and accessible accessories. We read the handbook and value the quick start instructions, useful diagrams or pictures, and advice or recipes.

IS AN IMMERSION BLENDER WORTH IT?

Our experts believe it is worthwhile to add an immersion blender to your kitchen, particularly if you enjoy making quick and smooth soups. Compared to a countertop blender, it is simpler to operate, more affordable to store, and easier to clean.

Making pesto, dips, mayonnaise, whipped cream, and even scrambled eggs is a breeze with an immersion blender. Since the motor (and blades) are smaller than those of a countertop blender and cannot operate for an extended period of time without overheating, good immersion blenders can only make smoothies, milkshakes, and frozen drinks for one or two people.

We do suggest using a powerful blender or food processor for foods that are hard (like nuts and seeds) or very fibrous (like kale and carrots), as they typically won't become velvety smooth. Also keep in mind that an immersion blender's blade must be completely submerged in order for it to function; you might find that mixing extremely little amounts is challenging.

WHAT TO CONSIDER BEFORE BUYING AN IMMERSION BLENDER

A cord delivers steady power but can tangle, burn, or tip over items on a busy kitchen counter or stovetop. Cordless devices, on the other hand, don't have these drawbacks. Although cordless devices are lightweight and portable, they must be charged in between usage or they risk losing power before you can complete the task.

Blade guard vents: The blade guard is the blender arm's dome-shaped component that protects the blades. For better and quicker blending, we discovered that wide blade guards with big vents do a better job of moving the food around. Because it is simpler to reach food lodged between the blades, they are also simpler to clean. Just make sure your favorite pots and smoothie cups can accommodate the blade guard effortlessly.

Handle and grip: An immersion blender must be comfortable to grasp and use because you must grab the handle with one hand while using your fingers to press the on, off, or speed buttons. If the handle is too big, the buttons are too small or awkwardly positioned, or the blender feels heavy, your hands will become tired. The buttons should be simple to press and need little force. When you grasp the handle, your fingertips should naturally land on the buttons. Non-slip rubber handles were discovered to be softer and simpler to hold onto.

Look for a model with a small enough design to fit in a kitchen drawer. Immersion blenders are simple to clean, but we prefer versions with a removable, dishwasher-safe blender component.

Additional attachments: A lot of immersion blenders have a motor that may be used to power additional whisking, chopping, processing, or foaming attachments. If you already own standalone models of these appliances, you can save money by purchasing a model without the extras, but if you don't have the accessories or wish to consolidate your storage, they can be a practical choice. A strong, tall, and thin blending jar is one accessory we highly advise: It makes the up-and-down action required to mix easier, ensures the blender is submerged, and lessens splattering. Additionally, you can use it to serve or keep food.

Wattage: According to our research, this component is not as crucial as others. We examined immersion blenders with motors ranging from 225 to 600 watts, and while wattage is a measure of power, we did not find that it is a good indicator of quality, functionality, or comfort.