Best commercial blender 2023: Buyer's guide

buyer's guide

What’s inside this buyer’s guide

Introduction
Types of commercial blenders
How to choose the right blender jar
Other features to consider
Best makes of commercial blenders
Used commercial blenders – worth considering?
Commercial blenders frequently asked questions
Commercial blender glossary
Save your cash, use ours!

In the fast-paced world of commercial kitchens, where every second counts, there's a true champion that outshines the rest: the blender.

This remarkable machine can effortlessly transform chunks of ice and fruit into refreshing beverages in less than 60 seconds.

It can make silky smooth soups and purees in minutes.

It can effortlessly pulverize even the toughest ingredients, making quick work of ice, nuts, and fibrous veggies.

The humble blender’s unrivalled speed and versatility make it an invaluable asset.

From invigorating smoothies to tantalising sauces, it delivers impeccable results.

Explore our comprehensive buyer's guide for commercial blenders and find the perfect blend of performance and durability to enhance your culinary endeavours.

Types of commercial blenders

Commercial blenders can be categorised into three primary types: food blenders, immersion blenders, and bar blenders.

Whether you're blending ingredients for a delectable meal, crafting refreshing beverages at a bar, or preparing velvety soups, each type of blender comes with distinct features and benefits tailored to meet your specific requirements.

Type of commercial blender
Food blender	Perfectly suited for heavy-duty blending in commercial settings such as restaurants, smoothie shops, and bars.	Effortlessly purees fruits and vegetables, into smooth and consistent textures in liquid blends. Typically equipped with larger jars, stronger motors, and faster blade speeds than standard household blenders. Often feature programmable settings, multiple blending speeds, and noise-reducing enclosures.
Immersion blender	Also known as a hand blender, it features a long shaft with a blade at the end. It is specifically designed for blending ingredients directly in pots or containers, offering convenience and versatility in the kitchen.	Perfectly suited to make purees and sauces. Efficiently blends large batches of ingredients quickly and easily. Available in different sizes and power levels.
Bar blender	Specially designed for crafting refreshing frozen drinks and cocktails with precision and efficiency.	Equipped with a robust motor and spacious jar to effortlessly blend big batches of ingredients with speed and ease. Preferred choice to make margaritas, daiquiris, and smoothies. Crushes ice to perfection for refreshing cocktails.

How to choose the right commercial blender jar?

While the blender steals the show, let's give credit where it's due—the blender jar, a true accomplice in your quest for greatness.

Don't settle for a lacklustre partner; instead, choose a blender jar that rises to the occasion.

Whether you need precise pouring with a convenient spout, a spacious capacity for high-volume blending, or the durability to tackle tough ingredients and crush ice, selecting the right jar is important.

To optimise your blending experience, keep the following factors in mind when selecting your ideal jar.

Material

Choosing the right material for your industrial blender is like selecting the perfect wingman –someone dependable and able to handle any circumstance.

Consider whether you need the resilience of tough polycarbonate or the durability of stainless steel for your daily grind.

Alternatively, copolyester or glass/Pyrex can provide a sophisticated finish.

Each material has its pros and cons: stainless steel is easy to clean but lacks transparency, polycarbonate is virtually unbreakable but may not be suitable for hot foods due to BPA concerns, glass/Pyrex is ideal for open display kitchens and bars, and copolyester is tough enough to withstand heat and acid.

Remember, compromising here can impact the smoothness of your blend and the longevity of your blender.

Choose wisely to ensure optimal performance.

Capacity

The size of the blender jar plays a significant role in determining the production capacity and overall efficiency of a kitchen.

In high-volume commercial kitchens, larger jars with a capacity of 1.9 litres or more are commonly preferred.

These spacious jars allow for blending substantial quantities of ingredients in a single batch, saving valuable time and increasing productivity.

However, smaller jars with a capacity of 0.9-1.3 litres still serve a purpose, particularly for preparing individual servings or smaller batches of blended foods.

It's essential to consider the specific needs of your kitchen to determine the optimal jar size for seamless operations.

Handles

Commercial blender jars come in two variations: with handles and without handles.

Jars with handles provide ergonomic support, facilitating easier lifting and pouring while minimising the risk of spills or accidents.

On the other hand, handleless blender jars offer ease of cleaning and can fit into tight spaces more conveniently.

If you opt for a handleless jar, ensure it features a non-slip base and a comfortable grip design to ensure safe and efficient use in the kitchen.

The choice between the two options depends on the specific needs and preferences of your commercial kitchen setup.

Stackable

If your restaurant needs multiple blenders or blender containers, selecting stackable jars is a smart choice.

These jars enable efficient utilisation of storage space by allowing you to stack them vertically, minimising the footprint they occupy.

By opting for stackable jars, you can conserve valuable storage space and ensure a tidy and organised setup in your commercial kitchen.

Graduations

The inclusion of measurement markings, or graduations, on blender jars offers a convenient and precise method for ingredient measurement, eliminating the need for additional tools.

This feature holds particular significance for food service operators aiming for consistency and efficiency in the kitchen.

SilverChef's selection of blenders, equipped with in-jar graduations, simplifies the achievement of accurate and consistent recipe preparation.

Whether following a tried-and-true recipe or venturing into new culinary creations, these graduations ensure precise measurements, empowering chefs to maintain quality and streamline their processes.

Go jar-less

For swift and efficient processing of large quantities of soft or liquid foods, consider forgoing the traditional jar and instead choose a commercial immersion blender.

By eliminating the limitations of a jar, you can blend vast amounts of food, hot or cold, in a single operation, making it an ideal option for fast-paced commercial kitchens that prioritise speed and precision.

Immersion blenders are purpose-built to handle high volumes of food, effortlessly creating soups, sauces, and purees in a fraction of the time.

Additionally, they are easy to clean and maintain, making them a wise investment for any kitchen seeking to streamline its food preparation process.

Other features to consider

Before you make your final purchase decision, it's crucial to reflect on additional key factors that can significantly impact your blending experience.

Consider factors such as horsepower, control type, noise level, and ease of cleaning – each of these elements plays a vital role in ensuring that your blender aligns with your business needs and surpasses your expectations.

Blender application

When choosing a blender, it's important to understand that not all blenders are the same.

The specific environment in which the blender will be used plays a significant role in determining the ideal type.

For example, a busy breakfast establishment would benefit from a powerful blender capable of handling large quantities of frozen fruits and ice for smoothies and blended beverages.

In contrast, a fine dining restaurant might prioritise a more sophisticated blender for the precise pureeing of soups and sauces.

Consider the frequency of blender usage as well.

A small bar that only occasionally requires a blender may have different needs than a lively sports bar that relies on a blender for a continuous flow of blended drinks during busy hours.

Investing in a high-quality blender with a strong motor and durable components ensures it can withstand the demands of a high-volume environment.

Additionally, it's essential to assess how well the blender's features align with your specific blending requirements.

For instance, a juice bar may find programmable controls and timers beneficial for efficiently making multiple batches throughout the day.

Whereas, a cocktail-focused establishment might seek a blender with variable blending speeds and settings to achieve the desired consistency for each drink.

While it can be tempting to invest in a top-of-the-line blender with all the latest features, it's crucial to strike a balance between functionality and cost-effectiveness.

Horsepower / wattage

Please find the detailed table below, which provides various blender horsepower ratings and their recommended applications, along with estimates of servings per day:

Blender HP Rating	Recommended Application	Estimated Servings per Day
½ - 2 HP	Light-duty blending, such as pureeing soups and sauces, making smoothies, and crushing ice.	50 - 75 servings
3-4 HP	Medium-duty blending, such as blending frozen fruits and vegetables, making nut butter, and crushing ice for frozen drinks.	75-150 servings
5-6 HP	Heavy-duty blending, such as blending tough ingredients like nuts and grains, making large batches of smoothies, and crushing ice for high-volume frozen drinks.	150-300 servings
7+ HP	Extra-heavy-duty blending, e.g. large batches of thick, dense ingredients like dough, making frozen cocktails, and crushing large volumes of ice for high-volume bars and restaurants	300+ servings

**It's important to keep in mind that the estimated servings per day provided in the table are approximate and may vary depending on the unique characteristics of each commercial kitchen. When choosing the right blender HP rating for a New Zealand commercial kitchen, it is crucial to take into account factors such as menu offerings, customer demand, and operational requirements specific to your establishment.

Blender controls

To become an expert at blending, it's important to understand the three main control types: toggle/paddle, electronic, and programmable.

Each type has its own benefits, making it best for certain tasks.

Knowing how to use all three will help you achieve the best blending results by selecting the right control type for each job.

Toggle/Paddle Controls

Offers a user-friendly and hands-on approach to blending tasks that don't necessitate intricate speed and timing control
Primarily designed for moderate blending requirements, providing a straightforward and efficient solution without unnecessary complexities

Programmable Controls

Take blending to unprecedented levels of accuracy and customisation, surpassing the capabilities of basic toggle/paddle controls.
Boast advanced functionalities such as automatic timers, touchpad start/stop buttons, and multiple power levels, delivering enhanced control and an array of customisation options.

Electronic Controls

Specifically engineered for demanding, high-volume settings where maintaining consistency is paramount, especially for repetitive blending tasks.
Feature a convenient programming capability that enables users to set precise blending times and power levels for future use.

Variable speed settings

Blenders are equipped with a variety of adjustable speed settings, typically ranging from 2 to 10, allowing for customisation to meet the specific requirements of each recipe.

By having control over blending speed, chefs can attain the ideal texture and consistency for a diverse range of dishes.

Whether it involves gradually increasing the speed for smoothies or utilising a higher speed for thick sauces, the availability of variable speed settings offers the flexibility necessary to achieve desired outcomes.

Additionally, these settings prevent potential spills when blending hot liquids and guarantee a smooth and creamy finish when working with challenging ingredients like nuts.

Noise level

If you find the disruptive noise of blenders disturbing your kitchen's serene atmosphere, consider investing in a blender equipped with a sound enclosure.

This ingenious feature consists of a robust polycarbonate shield that envelops the blender during operation, effectively minimising noise emissions.

While the enclosure may slightly limit access to the jar and controls, the inconvenience is outweighed by the benefits of creating a quieter workspace.

Opting for a quieter blender is not only a smart business decision but also an investment in your establishment's reputation and prosperity.

Your customers and employees will greatly appreciate it!

Ease of cleaning

While cleaning your blender may not be the most glamorous task, it plays a vital role in maintaining the appliance's optimal condition.

Luckily, there are features designed to simplify and streamline the cleaning process, ensuring your blender remains in pristine condition.

These features contribute to a more efficient and hassle-free cleaning experience, leaving your blender looking as fresh and sparkling as the day you first brought it into your kitchen.

Removable jar pads

These protective pads serve a dual purpose by safeguarding the blender base against scratches and damage, while also preventing the accumulation of spills and splatters over time.

When the cleaning task arises, simply remove the pads and effortlessly clean them at the sink.

This convenient feature not only enhances the longevity of your blender but also simplifies the cleaning process, allowing you to maintain a pristine and hygienic kitchen environment with ease.

Removable blade assemblies

To ensure a comprehensive and effective cleaning process, numerous blender models offer the convenience of detaching the blade assembly from the base of the jar.

This lets you easily clean any food residue that may be trapped in the jar's gaskets or hard-to-reach crevices.

By easily separating the blade assembly, you can effortlessly clean every nook and cranny, leaving no room for lingering debris; ensuring food safety & hygiene.

Removable shafts

This essential feature serves to safeguard the motor from potential damage during the cleaning process, ultimately saving time and effort.

By enabling the easy removal of the blade assembly, the need for manual scrubbing around the blades is eliminated, leading to a more hygienic and efficient kitchen experience.

Best makes of commercial blenders

Hamilton Beach

Established in 1910, Hamilton Beach stands as a prominent American manufacturer of exceptional commercial appliances.

Renowned for its commitment to quality and penchant for innovative ideas, the company has garnered a global reputation in the industry.

With a rich history spanning over a century, Hamilton Beach continues to excel in delivering high-quality products that meet the evolving needs of the commercial sector.

Some of the recommended models in New Zealand are the BBD0550 Fury Blender, which is a robust machine that can grind even the toughest ingredients with ease, and the HBH755-CE, which is known for its programmable features and silent operation.

Shop Hamilton Beach commercial blenders now.

Waring

Recognised as the visionary behind the world's inaugural blender in 1937, Waring has evolved into a distinguished manufacturer and designer of both household and professional food preparation equipment.

Renowned for their commitment to quality and performance, Waring blenders have become synonymous with precision and versatility in the culinary world.

From powerful motor capabilities to advanced blending technologies, Waring blenders excel at effortlessly creating smoothies, soups, sauces, and much more.

Some of the recommended models include Waring Xtreme Hi-Power Blender MX1100XTXSNNA, which features a noise-reducing sound enclosure that can significantly reduce the amount of noise produced while blending and Waring Heavy Duty Big Stix Immersion Blender 300mm WSB50CK which boasts a 12-inch removable shaft that can blend large quantities of ingredients with ease.

Shop Waring commercial blenders now

Vitamix

With a remarkable history spanning nearly a century, Vitamix stands as a family-owned business rooted in a legacy that traces back to its founder, William G. Barnard.

In the 1920s, Barnard traversed the United States, showcasing cutting-edge kitchen equipment.

The year 1949 marked a significant milestone for the company as Barnard pioneered the first televised infomercial, introducing the world to the revolutionary Vita-Mix blender.

Today, Vitamix has earned global recognition and acclaim, emerging as an esteemed and award-winning brand cherished by professional chefs.

Highlighted among the top recommendations are the Vitamix Ascent Series A2500i and A3500i. The A2500i offers three program settings for smoothies, hot soups, and frozen desserts, while the A3500i takes it further with five program settings, including dips & spreads and self-cleaning capabilities.

Shop Vitamix commercial blenders now

Robot Coupe

Recognised as a prominent distributor of Robot Coupe industrial blenders in New Zealand, the brand originated in France and established its presence in the United States over 30 years ago.

Renowned for their steadfast commitment to unmatched quality, Robot Coupe blenders have become favoured choices among a wide range of food establishments including restaurants, cafeterias, and buffets.

With a dedication to delivering exceptional performance and reliability, Robot Coupe blenders offer an outstanding solution for your blending needs in the dynamic New Zealand culinary landscape.

Two highly recommended models for industrial blenders are the Robot Coupe Powermixer MP350 Ultra and the MP450 Ultra V.V. These exceptional blenders boast impressive batch capacities of 50L and 100L respectively, allowing for efficient mixing, blending, and emulsifying.

Shop Robot Coupe commercial blenders now.

Apuro

Apuro, a prominent brand in long-lasting gas and electric commercial catering equipment, has accumulated over 18 years of expertise.

Dedicated to continuously enhancing usability, efficiency, and affordability, Apuro introduces innovative products to the market.

Their diverse range includes top-notch heavy duty blenders, along with coffee machines, soup kettles, contact grills, rice cookers, and meat slicers, all crafted to deliver superior quality and performance.

Recommended brands in New Zealand include The Apuro DR825-A Commercial Bar Blender with Sound Enclosure 2.5Ltr is a popular choice, boasting a powerful 1.68kW motor with a variable speed range of 10,000 to 28,000rpm and Apuro Immersion Stick Blender 120L/FS442-A, which features a powerful 500W motor and can blend up to 120 litres at a time, making it perfect for busy commercial kitchens.

Used commercial blenders – worth considering?

Spending thousands of dollars on a new commercial blender can put a strain on your budget and cash flow.

If you’d prefer not to invest a lot of money in a heavy duty blender, a cheaper, pre-owned appliance might be the solution you’re looking for.

SilverChef’s range of ‘Certified Used’ commercial equipment is mostly ex-rental equipment sourced from businesses we know and trust.

The equipment is typically less than two-and-a-half years old, has been fully refurbished by us, and is backed by a three-month parts-and-labour warranty.

Considering the effective, or useful, life of a commercial blender is around 10 years, you can be sure our Certified Used commercial blenders have plenty of life left in it.

You can either buy or finance the ‘Certified Used’ (and clearance) equipment on our website.

We’re one of the few financiers, if not the only one, in New Zealand that funds second-hand commercial kitchen equipment.

Commercial blender frequently asked questions

Is a commercial blender more powerful than a food processor?

Yes, commercial blenders generally offer greater power compared to food processors.

Specifically engineered for heavy-duty usage, commercial blenders feature robust motors capable of swiftly and efficiently blending substantial quantities of ingredients.

Additionally, they are constructed with durable components to endure frequent utilisation in commercial kitchens.

In contrast, food processors are designed to handle a broader array of tasks, such as chopping, shredding, and slicing, in addition to blending.

While food processors can perform blending functions, they typically feature smaller motors and are not designed for the same level of intensive usage as commercial blenders.

What is the recommended motor power for a commercial blender for milkshakes, and why is it important?

When it comes to blending milkshakes, it is generally advisable to opt for a commercial blender with a motor power ranging between 1000 and 1500 watts.

This level of power is essential because milkshakes often incorporate ingredients like ice cream or frozen fruits, which can pose challenges for lower-powered blenders.

A higher-powered motor ensures smoother blending and mitigates the risk of overheating or burnout during prolonged use.

SilverChef presents a selection of commercial blenders with different motor powers, allowing you to select the one that aligns with your specific business requirements.

Can a commercial blender for smoothies be used for other things

Yes, a commercial blender designed for smoothies can also handle tasks like making soups, sauces, nut butter, and grinding coffee beans.

However, it is essential to clean the blender thoroughly between uses to maintain hygiene and prevent flavour transfer.

What are some options for acquiring a commercial blender for my business

You can buy a commercial blender for sale from different sources, including traditional equipment retailers, kitchenware stores, and online marketplaces.

Additionally, SilverChef offers a unique rent-try-buy program for commercial equipment, including blenders, which can be a good option for businesses looking to reduce upfront costs and try out equipment before committing to a purchase.

With SilverChef, you can rent a blender for a fixed period, and if you decide to buy it, a portion of the rental payments can be credited toward the purchase price.

Commercial blender glossary

Blade Assembly

The vital blender component comprising blades, blade housing, and sealing gasket responsible for thorough ingredient blending.

Jar/Container

The container in which the ingredients are blended.

Commercial blenders offer high-capacity jars suitable for large quantities.

Motor Base

The foundation housing the motor, controls, and power supply.

It propels the blade assembly to achieve efficient blending.

Horsepower (HP)

A power measurement unit indicating blender motor strength.

Higher horsepower signifies enhanced blending capability.

Pulse Control

A convenient feature enabling short bursts of blending to attain desired texture or consistency.

Sound Enclosure

An accessory that reduces blender noise during operation, maintaining a quieter environment.

Tamper

A tool used to push ingredients downward during blending, ensuring thorough blending and minimising air pockets.

Programmable Settings

An advanced functionality allowing pre-programming of specific blending settings for diverse recipes and ingredients.

Auto Shut-Off

A safety feature that automatically stops the blender in case of overheating or detected issues.

Blade Guard

A protective cover that covers the blade assembly to prevent accidents and injuries during use and cleaning.

Cleaning Cycle

A convenient feature that employs water and detergent to efficiently clean the blender jar and blade assembly, removing residue and leftover ingredients.

Save your cash. Use ours!

Hospitality equipment can be expensive and paying for it outright can put pressure on your business’s cash flow.

Our finance solutions allow you to get the equipment you want now and to pay for it in small, regular amounts out of the revenue it helps generates.

Rent–Try–Buy® not only helps you maintain your cash flow, it also gives you unrivalled flexibility to adapt your equipment to the changing needs of your business.

You can upgrade or buy the equipment at any time or, after 12 months, return or continue renting it.

If you decide to buy the equipment, we’ll give you back 75% of the net rent you paid in the first year and 25% of any rental payments thereafter — to put toward the purchase price.