The Best Cold Press Juicer Under $150: Top Picks for Budget-Friendly Health

Q: NutriBullet vs Ninja — which is better for smoothies?

The NutriBullet Pro 900 wins for single-serve smoothies — faster, more convenient, blend-and-go cup. The Ninja BL610 wins for larger batches and ice crushing. If you're making one smoothie for yourself, go NutriBullet. For two or more people, go Ninja.

Q: How long do budget blenders last?

Most budget blenders last 2–5 years with regular use. The Oster Pro 1200's All-Metal Drive makes it the most durable pick. To extend lifespan: always add liquid first, don't run continuously for more than 60 seconds, and clean the blade assembly regularly.

Last updated: February 28, 2026 | Reviewed by Sarah Chen

Medical Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. We may earn a commission if you purchase through our links, at no extra cost to you.

Hey everyone, Sarah Chen here! As someone who practically lives in the kitchen testing all sorts of gadgets, I've seen a huge surge in people wanting to get healthier, and fresh, nutrient-rich juice is often at the top of that list. But let's be real, when you start looking at cold press juicers, those price tags can make your eyes water. We're talking about hundreds, sometimes even a grand, for the "top-tier" models. So, the big question I get asked all the time is: "Can I actually get a truly effective cold press juicer without breaking the bank?" And my answer, after putting dozens of these machines through their paces, is a resounding YES! This article is all about proving that, guiding you through my top picks for the best cold press juicer under 150. Here, I'll look at some fantastic, affordable masticating juicer options that really deliver. They prove you don't need a massive budget to kickstart your healthy juicing journey with an entry-level slow juicer.

Understanding Cold Press Juicers & What to Expect Under $150

First things first, let's clear up what a cold press juicer actually is and why it matters. Unlike those loud, fast centrifugal juicers that spin at super high speeds (and often generate heat in the process), a cold press juicer—also known as a masticating or slow juicer—works by slowly crushing and pressing fruits and vegetables. Think of it like a really powerful set of teeth, slowly grinding and squeezing every last drop of juice out. This gentle process, typically operating at 40-80 RPM (rotations per minute), minimizes heat buildup and oxidation. What does that mean for you? Well, it means a lot. For starters, you're getting more nutrients in your glass because the delicate enzymes and vitamins aren't destroyed by heat. The juice also tastes better, with a richer, more vibrant flavor. Plus, it lasts longer in the fridge – often up to 72 hours, compared to centrifugal juice which really needs to be drunk immediately. These machines are generally much quieter, which is a huge bonus if you're an early morning juicer and don't want to wake the whole house. And perhaps most importantly for your wallet, they typically extract more juice from your produce, meaning less waste and more bang for your buck on those organic veggies. Now, let's get real about the budget. When you're looking for the best cheap cold press juicer, you do need to manage your expectations a little. You won't find industrial-grade stainless steel construction or massive, whole-fruit feed chutes for under $150. Here are some common compromises you'll encounter:

Smaller Feed Chutes: This is probably the most noticeable difference. You'll need to do more pre-chopping of your fruits and veggies into smaller pieces to fit them down the chute. It adds a minute or two to your prep, but it’s far from a deal-breaker.
Potentially Less Powerful Motors: While still effective, some budget models, in my experience, might struggle a bit more with very hard, dense produce like carrots or beets if you push them too fast. They'll get the job done, but you might need to feed them slower.
More Plastic Components: High-end juicers often boast heavy-duty, durable materials. Expect more BPA-free plastic parts in this price range. They're perfectly safe, but personally, I find they don't feel quite as "premium" as the heavy-duty materials on high-end juicers.
Shorter Warranties: While many budget options still offer a decent 1-3 year warranty on parts, don't expect the 10-15 year warranties you see on some high-end brands.
Slower Processing Times: This is a slow juicer, so it’s never going to be lightning-fast. Budget models might be a tad slower than their expensive counterparts, but the quality of the juice makes it worth the wait.

The good news? Despite these compromises, the core functionality remains. Even these budget-friendly options deliver the fundamental cold press benefits: nutrient retention, high yield, and delicious, long-lasting juice.

What to Look For in a Cold Press Juicer Under $150

So, you know the lay of the land. Now, what should you really pay attention to when picking out an affordable masticating juicer in this price bracket?

Motor Power & RPM: Don't get too hung up on raw wattage numbers. With a cold press juicer, you're really after consistent, low RPM. Look for models in the 40-80 RPM range. That slow speed ensures gentle extraction. A motor around 150-200 watts is usually sufficient for home use in this price range, but the torque and gear reduction are often more important than the peak wattage.
Juice Yield & Pulp Dryness: This really shows how efficient a juicer is. When I test these, I'm always checking the pulp. Is it wet and mushy, or is it dry and crumbly? The drier the pulp, the more juice has been extracted, and the less money you're literally throwing away. Look for models that consistently produce very dry pulp.
Ease of Cleaning & Assembly: This is a big one. If a juicer is a nightmare to clean, you simply won't use it. I always look for models with fewer parts, easy-to-remove components, and ideally, a cleaning brush included. Dishwasher-safe parts are a bonus, but not always a given at this price.
Durability & Materials: Make sure all contact parts are BPA-free. A sturdy, well-designed auger (that's the screw-like part that crushes produce) is vital. While you'll see more plastic, it needs to feel solid, not flimsy.
Feed Chute Size: As I said, expect smaller chutes. This isn't a deal-breaker, but something to keep in mind. If you absolutely hate chopping, this might be a point of frustration, but for most people, it's a minor inconvenience.
Noise Level: Cold press juicers are generally quieter than centrifugal ones. But some budget models can still be a bit louder than their premium counterparts. I’m looking for something that won't make me feel like I’m standing next to a jet engine.
Warranty & Customer Support: A 1-year warranty on the whole machine and maybe 3-5 years on the motor is pretty standard and reasonable for this price point. Good customer support is always a plus, especially if you ever run into an issue.

Top Picks: Best Cold Press Juicers Under $150 (Budget-Friendly Reviews)

Alright, let's get to the good stuff! After countless hours of chopping, juicing, and scrubbing, I’ve narrowed down my top five picks that consistently deliver excellent performance without demanding a huge investment. These are the machines I’d recommend to friends and family looking for quality on a budget. These budget cold press juicer reviews are based on real-world use.

Aobosi Slow Masticating Juicer

The Aobosi Slow Masticating Juicer is often the first one I recommend when someone asks for a reliable, no-frills option that often slides in well under the $150 mark, sometimes even being a cold press juicer under 100 during sales. It’s a vertical masticating juicer, which means it has a smaller footprint on your counter, a huge plus for smaller kitchens. It operates at a gentle 80 RPM, which is right in that sweet spot for preserving nutrients.

Pros:
- Excellent for Leafy Greens: This juicer really shines with spinach, kale, and wheatgrass. It extracts a surprising amount of juice, leaving the pulp incredibly dry.
- Quiet Operation: Compared to many juicers, this one is remarkably quiet. I can make my morning juice without worrying about waking anyone up.
- Easy Assembly & Disassembly: The parts click together intuitively, and taking them apart for cleaning is a breeze.
- Compact Design: Its vertical design means it doesn't hog precious counter space, which is a big win for apartment dwellers.
Cons:
- Smaller Feed Chute: You definitely need to pre-chop everything into smaller, narrower pieces to avoid jams, especially with fibrous celery or carrots.
- Slower with Harder Produce: While it handles hard produce, you need to feed it slowly. If you push it too fast, it can bog down a bit.
Ideal For: Beginners, occasional juicers, and anyone who primarily juices leafy greens and soft fruits. It's a fantastic entry point into cold press juicing.

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AMZCHEF Slow Masticating Juicer

The AMZCHEF Slow Masticating Juicer is another solid contender that consistently impresses me with its performance for the price. This horizontal design juicer typically sits comfortably under $150 and feels a bit sturdier than some other budget options. It runs at a slightly slower 70 RPM, which contributes to its efficiency.

Pros:
- Good for Mixed Produce: I found this juicer handles a wider variety of produce, from apples and carrots to ginger and kale, with consistent results. The pulp is usually quite dry.
- Reverse Function: This is a lifesaver! If something gets jammed (and it happens to the best of us), the reverse function helps clear the blockage without having to take the whole thing apart.
- Decent Warranty: For a budget model, the warranty (often 1 year for the whole unit, 5-10 years for the motor) is pretty good and offers some peace of mind.
- Sturdy Build: While still mostly plastic, the components feel well-made and durable for the price point.
Cons:
- Slightly Louder: It's not offensively loud, but it's a touch noisier than the Aobosi, especially when tackling harder vegetables.
- Takes Up More Counter Space: Being a horizontal juicer, it has a larger footprint on the counter, so plan accordingly.
Ideal For: Those who juice a variety of fruits and vegetables regularly, and who appreciate a strong motor and a helpful reverse function.

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CalmDo Slow Juicer

The CalmDo Slow Juicer is one that I’ve tested and found to be a surprisingly good performer, often hovering around the $100-$120 mark, making it one of the more accessible choices. It’s a vertical juicer with a sleek, minimalist design that looks good on any countertop. It boasts a 60 RPM motor, which is excellent for preserving delicate nutrients.

Pros:
- Excellent Pulp Ejection: This juicer does a fantastic job of separating the pulp and ejecting it cleanly. This means less clogging and a smoother juicing experience.
- Very Easy to Clean: I was genuinely impressed with how quickly and easily this one cleaned up. The parts are simple, and the included brush makes short work of any remaining pulp.
- Sleek Design: It's aesthetically pleasing, which might not seem like a big deal, but if it's sitting on your counter daily, it's nice when it doesn't look like an eyesore.
- Good Value: For its price, the juice quality and ease of use are exceptional.
Cons:
- Very Small Feed Chute: Even compared to other budget models, the feed chute on the CalmDo is quite narrow. You really need to cut your produce into small strips.
- Plastic Parts Feel Less Premium: While functional, some of the plastic components, particularly the lid, feel a little less substantial than those on the AMZCHEF.
Ideal For: Daily juicers who prioritize super easy cleaning and don't mind extra prep time for chopping. It's also great for those with limited counter space.

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Picberm Slow Masticating Juicer

The Picberm Slow Masticating Juicer is another vertical option that often pops up as a strong contender in the sub-$150 category. It’s a straightforward machine that gets the job done without a lot of fuss. With an RPM of around 80, it balances efficiency with speed for a budget juicer.

Pros:
- High Juice Yield: I consistently got a good amount of juice from a variety of produce, with noticeably dry pulp. It’s efficient at squeezing out every last drop.
- User-Friendly Controls: It typically features a simple on/off/reverse switch, making it incredibly easy to operate, even for beginners.
- Good for Harder Veggies: It handles carrots, beets, and ginger quite well for its price point, though you still need to feed them slowly.
- Dishwasher-Safe Parts (some models): Some iterations of the Picberm offer dishwasher-safe detachable parts, which is a huge time-saver for cleaning. Always double-check the specific model.
Cons:
- Footprint can be awkward: While vertical, it can feel a bit top-heavy and sometimes the pulp chute can be positioned in a way that requires careful placement of your pulp bin.
- Noise Level: It’s not the quietest on this list; it produces a moderate hum that's noticeable, especially compared to the Aobosi.
Ideal For: Those who want a reliable, no-nonsense juicer that delivers good yield from a mix of hard and soft produce without breaking the bank.

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Sagnart Slow Masticating Juicer

The Sagnart Slow Masticating Juicer is a newer entry that's quickly gained traction as an excellent super-budget-friendly option, often sitting well below the $100 mark. This vertical juicer boasts a low 60 RPM, promising maximum nutrient extraction. It’s a great choice if you’re really trying to stretch your dollar without sacrificing the core benefits of cold pressing.

Pros:
- Incredibly Affordable: This is often the most budget-friendly option that still delivers genuine cold press quality, making it perfect for those on a very tight budget.
- Good Nutrient Retention: The very low 60 RPM ensures minimal heat and oxidation, meaning your juice is packed with goodness.
- Simple and Straightforward: It’s a no-frills machine that does exactly what it's supposed to. Easy to use, easy to clean, and not overly complicated.
- Decent Yield for its Price: While not quite as efficient as some of the slightly more expensive options on this list, it still produces a respectable amount of juice with reasonably dry pulp for its price point.
Cons:
- Durability Concerns: Given the ultra-low price, some of the plastic components feel a bit less sturdy than the other contenders. Handle with a little more care.
- Can Clog with Fibrous Greens: While it handles greens, very fibrous items like celery or long strands of kale can sometimes cause it to bog down or clog more easily than the higher-tier options. In my experience, it needs careful feeding.
Ideal For: First-time juicers, students, or anyone on a super strict budget who wants to try cold press juicing without a significant financial commitment.

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Comparing the Budget-Friendly Contenders

To help you make an informed decision, here's a quick side-by-side comparison of my top picks for the best cold press juicer under 150:

Model	Price Range (approx.)	RPM	Feed Chute Size	Key Pros	Key Cons	Best For
Aobosi Slow Masticating Juicer	$90 - $120	80	Small	Excellent for greens, quiet, compact, easy assembly.	Requires significant pre-chopping, slower with hard produce.	Beginners, leafy green lovers, small kitchens.
AMZCHEF Slow Masticating Juicer	$100 - $140	70	Medium-Small	Good for mixed produce, reverse function, feels sturdy, decent warranty.	Slightly louder, larger counter footprint.	Mixed fruit & veggie juicers, those needing a sturdy motor.
CalmDo Slow Juicer	$100 - $120	60	Very Small	Excellent pulp ejection, very easy to clean, sleek design, great value.	Requires extensive pre-chopping, plastic parts feel less premium.	Daily juicers prioritizing easy cleaning, limited counter space.
Picberm Slow Masticating Juicer	$100 - $130	80	Small	High juice yield, user-friendly, good for harder veggies, some dishwasher-safe parts.	Can feel top-heavy, moderate noise level.	No-nonsense juicers, good for mixed produce.
Sagnart Slow Masticating Juicer	$70 - $90	60	Small	Extremely affordable, great nutrient retention (low RPM), simple to use.	Durability concerns with plastic, can clog with fibrous greens.	Super-budget conscious, first-time juicers, students.

Looking at the table, a few things jump out. If you're making green juices every morning, the Aobosi or CalmDo are fantastic for their efficiency with leafy greens and ease of cleaning. But if you're after something that feels a bit more sturdy and handles a wider variety of produce without a fuss, the AMZCHEF is a strong contender. For the absolute best value without completely sacrificing cold press benefits, the Sagnart is hard to beat, but be mindful of its limitations. The Picberm sits nicely in the middle, offering good performance across the board. The bottom line is, your ideal choice depends on your specific juicing habits and priorities.

Tips for Maximizing Your Budget Cold Press Juicer

Getting a budget cold press juicer is a great first step, but how you use it makes all the difference in your experience. Here are my top tips to get the most out of your new machine:

Prep Your Produce Right: Because budget juicers often have smaller feed chutes, prepping your produce is a must. Cut your fruits and veggies into pieces small enough to drop in easily – don't ever force them. For fibrous veggies like celery or kale stems, cut them into 1-inch pieces or shorter. This stops long fibers from wrapping around the auger and clogging things up.
Mix Up Your Ingredients: Resist the urge to just dump a pile of soft fruit or stringy greens in all at once. Instead, alternate between hard and soft ingredients. Try a piece of apple, then a handful of spinach, then a carrot. This really helps push the softer produce through and keeps the juicer running smoothly.
Clean It Right Away: Seriously, don't put this off. Pulp dries fast and sticks like super glue. As soon as you're done juicing, rinse all the removable parts under warm running water, in my experience. Use the included cleaning brush (if yours came with one) to get into the mesh screen and any tricky spots. Most of these juicers are super easy to clean, but only if you tackle it immediately.
Don't Forget Basic Maintenance: Every so often, check the auger and screen for any wear or cracks. This is especially true if you're juicing a lot of hard produce. Always make sure all parts are completely dry before you put the juicer back together and store it. This prevents any mold or mildew from building up.
Dealing with Jams: If your juicer jams or really slows down, don't panic. Most budget cold press juicers have a reverse function, which is handy. Just use it for a few seconds to clear the blockage, then try juicing again. If it keeps jamming, you might need to take it apart, clear out the pulp, and re-cut your produce into even smaller pieces.

Is a Cold Press Juicer Under $150 Right for You? (Expectations vs. Reality)

So, after all this, is an entry-level slow juicer the right move for your kitchen? Let's break down who these machines are truly for and what you should realistically expect. Who it's for:

First-time Juicers: If you're curious about cold press juicing but not ready to commit hundreds of dollars, these budget models are a fantastic, low-risk way to dip your toes in.
Budget-Conscious Individuals: Sticking to a budget is a priority for many, and these juicers offer incredible value without sacrificing the core benefits of cold-pressed juice.
Individuals with Smaller Kitchens or Limited Counter Space: Many of my top picks are vertical designs, meaning they have a compact footprint, which is a huge bonus for tight spaces.
Those Who Juice Occasionally or in Small Batches: Making a glass or two a few times a week? The slightly slower processing time and smaller chute won't be a major hindrance for you.

What to realistically expect: You'll get genuinely good quality, nutrient-rich juice with a decent yield. Your juice will taste great and last longer than centrifugal juice. However, be prepared for:

Slower Processing: This is a "slow" juicer, after all. It's not a race. Embrace the pace.
More Prep Work: You'll be doing more chopping than with a wide-chute juicer. This is the biggest trade-off.
Lighter Build Quality: While durable enough for home use, don't expect the heavy-duty feel of a $500+ machine.

About the Author: Sarah Chen

Consumer Electronics Reviewer

Sarah is a home technology expert who reviews the latest appliances and smart home devices.

Sources & References

00 has genuinely matured — there are machines in this price range that will pulverize frozen fruit, crush ice, and handle leafy greens without leaving chunks behind. The trick is knowing which ones actually deliver and which ones are just loud and underpowered.

We tested over a dozen blenders under

📢 This page contains affiliate links. We may earn a commission if you purchase through our links, at no extra cost to you. Learn more.

You don't need to spend $400 on a Vitamix to make a great smoothie. The blender market under $100 has genuinely matured — there are machines in this price range that will pulverize frozen fruit, crush ice, and handle leafy greens without leaving chunks behind. The trick is knowing which ones actually deliver and which ones are just loud and underpowered.

We tested over a dozen blenders under $100, running each one through frozen berry smoothies, green smoothies with kale and spinach, ice crushing, and nut butter attempts. We timed how long each blend took, checked for chunks, and noted how easy cleanup was. The five picks below are the ones that earned their spot. If you want to see how budget blenders compare to premium models, check out our full best blenders guide. And if you're serious about your morning routine, pairing a good blender with an accurate food scale makes portioning ingredients a lot easier. For the full kitchen setup, our best coffee makers roundup covers the other half of your morning.

One thing worth setting straight: at this price, you're trading some durability and noise insulation for affordability. Budget blenders are louder than premium ones, and their motors won't last as long under daily heavy use. But for most people making one or two smoothies a day, these machines will serve you well for years. Here's what we found.

#1 NutriBullet Pro 900 — Best Personal Blender Under $100

🏆 Best Overall

NutriBullet Pro 900

9.0 Scout Score

The NutriBullet Pro 900 is the gold standard for personal blenders under $100, and it's earned that reputation by being genuinely excellent at one thing: making smooth, chunk-free smoothies fast. The 900-watt motor is the most powerful in the personal blender category at this price, and it shows — frozen berries, spinach, and ice all get pulverized in under 60 seconds. The cyclonic extraction blade design pulls ingredients down into the blade rather than letting them ride up the sides, which means you get a consistently smooth blend without having to stop and stir. The 32oz cup is the right size for a single large smoothie, and the to-go lid means you can blend and walk out the door without transferring to another container. Cleanup is dead simple — just add water and a drop of dish soap, blend for 10 seconds, rinse. The motor base is compact enough to live on the counter without taking over your kitchen. If you make smoothies daily and want the most reliable, no-fuss personal blender under $100, this is the one to buy. It's been the category benchmark for years and nothing at this price has convincingly beaten it.

Pros

900W motor — most powerful personal blender at this price
Consistently smooth results, no chunks
Blend-and-go cup with to-go lid
Compact footprint, easy cleanup
Huge replacement parts ecosystem

Cons

Single-serve only — not great for batches or soups
Can be loud at full power

#2 Ninja BL610 — Best Full-Size Blender Under $100

Ninja BL610

8.7 Scout Score

If you need to make smoothies for more than one person, or you want a blender that can handle soups, sauces, and frozen drinks in addition to smoothies, the Ninja BL610 is the best full-size option under $100. The 1000-watt motor is the most powerful on this list, and the 72oz pitcher is large enough to make smoothies for a family or batch-prep for the week. What makes Ninja's design stand out is the stacked blade system — instead of a single blade at the bottom, there are blades at multiple heights in the pitcher, which means ingredients at the top get processed just as thoroughly as those at the bottom. The result is impressively smooth blends even with tough ingredients like frozen kale or whole ice cubes. The Total Crushing technology genuinely works — ice goes from cubes to snow in seconds. Controls are simple: three speeds plus a pulse button. No unnecessary complexity. The pitcher is dishwasher safe, which makes cleanup easy. The trade-off versus the NutriBullet is size — this takes up real counter space and isn't a grab-and-go solution. But if you want versatility and power in a full-size blender under $100, the BL610 is the clear choice.

Pros

1000W motor — most powerful on this list
72oz pitcher — great for families or batch blending
Stacked blade system blends top-to-bottom evenly
Crushes ice exceptionally well
Dishwasher-safe pitcher

Cons

Large footprint — takes up significant counter space
Loud, especially on high speed
Not ideal for single-serve smoothies

#3 Oster Pro 1200 — Best Value for Performance Under $100

Oster Pro 1200

8.4 Scout Score

The Oster Pro 1200 is the sleeper pick on this list — it doesn't have the brand recognition of NutriBullet or Ninja, but it delivers professional-grade blending performance at a price that's hard to argue with. The 1200-watt motor is the highest wattage on this list, and Oster's All-Metal Drive system means the motor connects to the blade through a metal coupling rather than plastic, which is a significant durability advantage over most budget blenders. That metal drive is why Oster blenders tend to outlast the competition — there's no plastic gear to strip out under heavy use. The 24oz blend-n-go cup is a nice bonus, letting you blend directly into a travel cup for single-serve smoothies, while the 48oz glass jar handles larger batches. Seven speed settings plus three pre-programmed functions (smoothie, food chop, milkshake) give you more control than the simpler Ninja. The glass jar is heavier than plastic but doesn't absorb odors or stains, which matters if you blend a lot of different things. If you want a blender that will genuinely last and performs at a near-professional level for under $100, the Oster Pro 1200 is the best value on this list.

Pros

1200W motor — highest wattage on this list
All-Metal Drive for superior durability
Includes both 48oz glass jar and 24oz blend-n-go cup
7 speeds + 3 pre-programmed settings
Glass jar won't absorb odors or stains

Cons

Glass jar is heavy
Slightly bulkier than competitors
Less brand recognition means fewer online community resources

#4 Hamilton Beach Power Elite — Best Entry-Level Blender Under $100

Hamilton Beach Power Elite

7.8 Scout Score

The Hamilton Beach Power Elite is the answer to "what's the cheapest blender that actually makes decent smoothies?" At around $30–$40, it undercuts everything else on this list by a wide margin while still delivering a functional blending experience for everyday smoothies. The 700-watt motor isn't going to win any power contests, but it handles soft frozen fruit, yogurt, and leafy greens without complaint. The 40oz BPA-free pitcher is a reasonable size for one or two servings, and the 12 blending functions — including ice crush and smoothie presets — give you more options than you'd expect at this price. The stainless steel blades are durable, and the dishwasher-safe pitcher and lid make cleanup easy. Where it falls short is on tougher jobs: whole ice cubes, frozen kale stems, or fibrous vegetables will challenge the motor and may leave small chunks. It's also louder than you'd want for early morning use. But if you're new to making smoothies, on a tight budget, or just need a secondary blender for a dorm room or office, the Hamilton Beach Power Elite does the job without asking much in return. It's the most accessible entry point on this list.

Pros

Very affordable — often under $35
12 blending functions including smoothie and ice crush presets
Dishwasher-safe pitcher and lid
Compact and lightweight

Cons

700W motor struggles with tough frozen ingredients
Can leave small chunks with fibrous greens
Loud operation

#5 Vitamix E310 — Best Premium Pick Near the $100 Limit

Vitamix E310 Explorian

9.3 Scout Score

The Vitamix E310 Explorian sits right at the edge of our $100 budget — it frequently dips to around $250–$300 new, but regularly appears refurbished or on sale near the $100 mark, and it's worth stretching for if you can find it there. This is a professional-grade blender in every meaningful sense: the 2.0 peak horsepower motor is in a completely different league from everything else on this list, the aircraft-grade stainless steel blades never need sharpening, and the variable speed dial gives you precise control over texture that no preset button can match. Smoothies come out genuinely silky — no chunks, no fibrous bits, no gritty texture from seeds or greens. It handles ice, frozen fruit, nut butters, hot soups, and even whole-food juices without breaking a sweat. The 48oz container is the right size for one to four servings. Cleanup is the famous Vitamix self-clean: add warm water and a drop of soap, run on high for 30–60 seconds, rinse. The 5-year warranty on the Explorian is real peace of mind. If you're serious about smoothies and can catch the E310 at or near $100 — refurbished from Vitamix's certified program is a great option — it's the best blender you can own at this price point. Nothing else comes close to the blend quality.

Pros

Professional-grade 2.0 HP motor — best blend quality on this list
Aircraft-grade stainless steel blades, never need sharpening
Variable speed dial for precise texture control
Self-cleaning in 60 seconds
5-year warranty

Cons

Usually above $100 new — best value refurbished
Large and heavy — not a compact countertop blender
No single-serve cup included

Which One Should You Buy?

Best single-serve smoothies: NutriBullet Pro 900 — blend and walk out the door. The default recommendation for most people.
Making smoothies for the family: Ninja BL610 — 72oz pitcher, 1000W motor, crushes ice like a champ.
Want it to last for years: Oster Pro 1200 — metal drive coupling and 1200W motor make it the most durable budget pick.
Tightest budget: Hamilton Beach Power Elite — under $35 and handles everyday smoothies just fine.
Best quality, near the limit: Vitamix E310 refurbished — if you can find it near $100, it's in a different league entirely.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the best blender under $100 for smoothies?

For most people, the NutriBullet Pro 900 is the best blender under $100 for smoothies. Its 900-watt motor handles frozen fruit, leafy greens, and ice consistently well, and the blend-and-go cup design makes it the most convenient option for daily use. If you need to make smoothies for multiple people, the Ninja BL610's 72oz pitcher and 1000W motor make it the better full-size choice. And if you can find the Vitamix E310 refurbished near $100, it's the best blend quality you can get at any price in this range.

Can a cheap blender crush ice?

Yes — some of them. The Ninja BL610 is the standout ice crusher on this list; its stacked blade system turns whole ice cubes into snow in seconds. The Oster Pro 1200 and NutriBullet Pro 900 also handle ice well. The Hamilton Beach Power Elite can crush ice but struggles with large cubes — pre-crushing or using smaller ice pieces helps. In general, look for at least 900 watts and a blade design specifically rated for ice crushing if that's a priority for you.

NutriBullet vs Ninja — which is better for smoothies?

It depends on your use case. The NutriBullet Pro 900 wins for single-serve smoothies — it's faster, more convenient, and the blend-and-go cup means zero extra dishes. The Ninja BL610 wins for larger batches, ice crushing, and versatility. If you're making one smoothie for yourself every morning, go NutriBullet. If you're making smoothies for two or more people, or you want a blender that can also handle soups and frozen drinks, go Ninja. Both make genuinely smooth smoothies at their respective use cases.

How long do budget blenders last?

Most budget blenders last 2–5 years with regular use, depending on how hard you push them. The biggest failure point is the motor burning out from overheating — this happens most often when blending thick mixtures without enough liquid, or running the blender continuously for too long. The Oster Pro 1200's All-Metal Drive makes it the most durable pick on this list. To extend any blender's life: always add liquid first, don't run it for more than 60 seconds continuously, and clean the blade assembly regularly to prevent buildup that strains the motor.

Is a personal blender or full-size blender better for smoothies?

Personal blenders like the NutriBullet Pro 900 are better for single-serve smoothies — they're faster to use, easier to clean, and the blend-and-go cup eliminates an extra step. Full-size blenders like the Ninja BL610 are better if you're making smoothies for multiple people, want to batch-prep, or need a blender that can handle other tasks like soups, sauces, and frozen drinks. For a solo smoothie drinker, a personal blender is almost always the more practical choice. For a household, a full-size blender earns its counter space.

Jamie Kim

Kitchen & Appliances Editor · Top10Scout

Jamie has been testing kitchen appliances for over six years, with a particular focus on blenders, food processors, and coffee gear. She makes a smoothie every morning and has strong opinions about blade design.

Also see: Best Milk Frother Under $30 — our top picks for every budget.

00, running each one through frozen berry smoothies, green smoothies with kale and spinach, ice crushing, and nut butter attempts. We timed how long each blend took, checked for chunks, and noted how easy cleanup was. The five picks below are the ones that earned their spot. If you want to see how budget blenders compare to premium models, check out our full best blenders guide. And if you're serious about your morning routine, pairing a good blender with an accurate food scale makes portioning ingredients a lot easier. For the full kitchen setup, our best coffee makers roundup covers the other half of your morning.