Best Mini Fridge for Dorm Room: Top Picks & Essential Buying Guide
Last updated: February 28, 2026 | Reviewed by Sarah Chen
Alright, college students, let's talk about something truly essential for dorm life: the mini fridge. Forget textbooks for a second; a good mini fridge can be the difference between surviving on lukewarm tap water and stale snacks, and having a stash of cold drinks, fresh fruit, and actual leftovers. As someone who’s personally tested dozens of these compact coolers, I know the struggle is real when you're trying to make a tiny dorm room feel like home.
You're navigating limited space, often strict dorm regulations, the perpetual battle against noise, and, let's be honest, a student budget that’s usually tighter than my jeans after a holiday meal. That's why picking the best mini fridge for dorm room isn't just about grabbing the cheapest one; it's about finding the right balance of size, efficiency, quiet operation, and features that, in my experience, actually make your life easier. I’m here to cut through the marketing fluff and give you the real scoop on what truly matters and which models deliver.
Why a Mini Fridge is Essential for Dorm Life
Look, I get it. You might think, "Do I really need a mini fridge?" And my answer, after years of reviewing appliances and watching real people use them, is a resounding YES, in my experience. It’s not just a luxury; it truly makes dorm life so much better for several reasons:
- Convenience is King: Ever had a late-night study session and craved a cold soda or a quick yogurt? Or woken up just before class, needing a grab-and-go breakfast? Your mini fridge is your personal 24/7 convenience store. No more trekking to the communal kitchen or, worse, paying vending machine prices for a sugary drink.
- Health & Wellness: Campus dining halls are great, but sometimes you just want to keep fresh produce, a healthy smoothie, or even medication at the right temperature. A mini fridge lets you store your own healthy snacks and leftovers, ensuring you're not relying solely on pizza and ramen.
- Cost Savings: This is a big one. Eating out, hitting the campus store, or using vending machines adds up, fast. With your own fridge, you can buy groceries in bulk, store leftovers from home, and even meal prep a little. Trust me, your wallet will thank you.
- Social Hub: Believe it or not, a mini fridge can become a little social magnet. Keeping a few extra drinks or snacks on hand for friends who drop by turns your room into a more welcoming space. Plus, you’ll be the hero when someone needs a cold one after a long day of classes.
- Personalization: A mini fridge makes your dorm room feel a little less like a temporary box and a little more like your own space. It’s a touch of home, a small comfort in a new environment.
Understanding Dorm Room Restrictions & Regulations
Before you even think about clicking "add to cart," you absolutely, positively need to check your specific university and dorm rules. I’ve seen too many students get hit with fines or, worse, have their brand-new fridge confiscated because they didn't do their homework. Every dorm is different, but there are common themes you'll want to know about.
Size & Capacity Considerations (Dorm Refrigerator Sizes)
Dorm rooms are notoriously tiny. Seriously, they make walk-in closets look spacious. So, the physical footprint of your mini fridge is super important. Make sure to measure the space you have available – under your desk, in a corner, next to your bed – and compare it to the fridge’s dimensions.
Most dorm mini fridges range from about 1.6 cubic feet (cu ft) up to 4.5 cu ft. For a single student, a 1.6 to 2.7 cu ft model is often perfect. It's enough for drinks, snacks, and a few meal prep containers. If you're sharing a room or just really like to stock up, a 3.0 to 4.5 cu ft unit might be better, but double-check those dimensions. I always recommend going a little smaller than you think you need, because trust me, every inch counts in a dorm.
Wattage Limits & Electrical Safety (Mini Fridge Wattage Limits Dorm)
This is where things get really serious. Dorms have strict wattage limits for appliances, and for good reason. Overloading electrical circuits is a fire hazard, and universities take it very seriously. Most dorms, in my experience, will have a wattage limit somewhere between 100-200 watts for a running mini fridge. They might allow a higher startup wattage (when the compressor first kicks on), but the continuous running wattage is what they're looking at.
Always look for an Energy Star certified model. These are designed to be more energy-efficient, which means lower running wattage and less strain on the dorm's power grid. Plus, they save you a few bucks on your electricity bill if you're paying for it. For safety, never overload outlets, and make sure your fridge has proper ventilation around it – don't shove it into a tight corner with no breathing room.
Other Common Dorm Rules
- No Exposed Heating Elements: This usually means no toaster ovens, hot plates, or kettles. Mini fridges are generally fine, but always confirm.
- Extension Cords & Power Strips: Many dorms prohibit standard extension cords or power strips not rated for appliances. If you need more outlets, invest in a heavy-duty surge protector designed for high-wattage use, and again, check with your RA.
- Defrosting: If you get a manual defrost unit (which many mini fridges are), be prepared for regular defrosting. Some dorms might even have rules about how often this needs to happen to prevent ice buildup.
- Placement: Don’t block fire exits, don’t place it directly against a wall without airflow, and keep it away from heat sources like radiators.
Key Features to Look for in a Dorm Mini Fridge
Once you've cleared the hurdle of dorm regulations, it's time to think about what actually makes a mini fridge good. I’ve spent countless hours with these machines, and these are the features that truly matter for a student.
Energy Efficiency (Cost-Saving & Eco-Friendly)
I already touched on this, but it bears repeating: Energy Star certification is your friend. A mini fridge runs 24/7, so even small differences in energy consumption add up over a semester. A more efficient model means a lower electricity bill (if you're paying) and less impact on the environment. Plus, it helps you stay within those tricky dorm wattage limits. Look for the Energy Star label and check the estimated annual energy consumption if it's listed.
Noise Level (Quiet Mini Fridge for Dorm)
This is, hands down, one of the most important considerations for a dorm room. Your fridge is going to be sitting just a few feet from your bed, your desk, and your study zone. A constantly humming, gurgling, or clicking fridge can drive you absolutely bonkers, especially when you're trying to sleep or focus on a difficult assignment. I’ve heard horror stories from students whose fridges kept them up all night.
Look for models with decibel (dB) ratings, if available. Anything under 40dB is generally considered quiet. Compressor-based fridges are the most common and efficient, but some can be noisy. Thermoelectric models are typically much quieter (no compressor), but they don't get as cold and are less energy-efficient. For most students, a quiet compressor fridge is the sweet spot. When I test, I literally put my ear next to the unit – and if it’s bothering me in a quiet room, it’ll bother you in a dorm.
Storage & Organization
You’d be surprised how much you can fit into a well-designed mini fridge. Think about:
- Adjustable Shelving: This is huge. You might need space for a tall bottle of soda one week, and then want to stack several small food containers the next. Adjustable shelves give you that flexibility.
- Door Storage: Cans, bottles, condiment jars – door storage is prime real estate. Look for shelves that can hold at least a few cans or a liter bottle.
- Separate Freezer Compartment vs. Ice Cube Tray Section: Many mini fridges have a tiny "chiller" section that's barely big enough for an ice cube tray, and often freezes things unevenly. If you plan on storing frozen meals, ice cream, or making a lot of ice, a model with a truly separate freezer door changes what you can do with your fridge. Just be aware these are usually larger and pricier.
- Crisper Drawer: Rare in mini fridges, but if you find one, it's great for keeping fruits and veggies fresh a little longer.
Durability & Warranty (Student-Friendly Options)
Let's be real, dorm life isn't always gentle. Your mini fridge needs to withstand being moved in and out, potentially being knocked around, and general student-level use (and abuse). Look for sturdy construction – sturdy shelves, solid door hinges, and decent quality materials. A good warranty (at least 1 year) and a company with a reputation for decent customer service can save you a lot of headache and money if something goes wrong mid-semester.
Aesthetics & Portability (Compact Mini Fridge for College)
While not as crucial as noise or capacity, aesthetics can matter. Your fridge is part of your room’s decor. Many come in basic black, white, or silver, but some offer fun colors. A reversible door hinge is a fantastic feature, allowing you to change which way the door swings to best fit your room layout. Recessed handles look sleek and save a tiny bit of space. Finally, consider the weight. You’ll be lugging this thing up stairs and across campus, potentially on your own. Lighter is generally better for move-in and move-out days.
Top Picks: Best Mini Fridges for Dorm Rooms
Alright, you've got the lowdown on what to look for. Now, let’s get to the good stuff – the specific models that, in my experience, truly stand out as the best mini fridge for dorm room living.
Best Overall Dorm Mini Fridge: Danby Designer DCR032C1BM (3.2 cu ft)
If I had to pick just one mini fridge that hits the sweet spot for most dorm dwellers, it would be the Danby Designer 3.2 cu ft. This fridge consistently performs well across the board, balancing decent capacity with solid features and reliability.
Key Features:
- 3.2 cubic feet of storage, which is a really good size for one student, maybe even two if you're not stocking up heavily.
- Energy Star rated, so it's not going to drain your wallet or trigger dorm wattage alarms.
- Integrated door shelving, including a tall bottle storage area and a can dispenser.
- Reversible door hinge – a lifesaver for tricky dorm layouts.
- ½ width freezer compartment for a few ice cubes or a small frozen meal.
Pros:
- Excellent Capacity: For its footprint, it holds a surprising amount. I found it easy to store a week's worth of drinks, snacks, and a few meal prep containers.
- Reliable & Consistent Cooling: It gets cold, and it stays cold. My temperature tests showed very stable temperatures throughout the main compartment.
- Relatively Quiet: While not silent, the compressor hum is soft and quickly fades into the background. I could easily sleep with this running in the same room.
- Good Value: You get a lot of bang for your buck with this model, making it a smart investment for college.
Cons:
- Small Freezer: That ½ width freezer is really more of a chiller. It'll make ice, but don't expect to store a full frozen pizza in there. Frost buildup is also a common issue if you don't keep it defrosted.
- Manual Defrost: You'll need to manually defrost it every few months, which can be a chore.
Best Quiet Option: Midea WHS-65LSS1 (1.6 cu ft)
For the light sleepers, the intense studiers, or anyone who just can't stand a persistent hum, the Midea WHS-65LSS1 is an excellent choice. This is a thermoelectric model, which means no compressor, and therefore, dramatically less noise.
Key Features:
- 1.6 cubic feet capacity, perfect for personal use – a few drinks, snacks, and maybe some fruit.
- Thermoelectric cooling system – the secret to its quiet operation.
- Adjustable shelf and door storage for flexibility.
- Sleek, compact design.
Pros:
- Whisper-Quiet: This is its superpower. You'll barely notice it's running, making it ideal for dorms where every sound is amplified. In my testing, it was one of the quietest units I've ever encountered.
- Compact Footprint: Its smaller size means it can tuck away almost anywhere, even under a desk or on a sturdy shelf. This is a truly compact mini fridge for college.
- Lightweight: Easy to move in and out of the dorm.
Cons:
- Less Powerful Cooling: Thermoelectric fridges don't get as cold as compressor models, especially if the ambient room temperature is high. Don't expect ice-cold drinks, more like nicely chilled.
- No Freezer: There's no freezer compartment whatsoever, so no ice cubes or frozen meals.
- Less Energy Efficient: Despite the smaller size, thermoelectric units often consume more energy relative to their cooling power than compressor fridges.
Best Compact & Space-Saving: BLACK+DECKER BCRK17B (1.7 cu ft)
When space is at an absolute premium, but you still need proper chilling power, the BLACK+DECKER BCRK17B steps up. This is a compressor-based fridge that manages to squeeze a lot into a tiny package.
Key Features:
- 1.7 cubic feet capacity – small but mighty.
- Energy Star certified.
- Reversible door, adjustable leveling legs.
- Full-width freezer compartment (though still small).
- Recessed door handle for a sleek look and space efficiency.
Pros:
- True Compact Power: Despite its small size, it's a compressor fridge, so it gets genuinely cold and is energy efficient. This is a top contender for a compact mini fridge for college.
- Smart Design: The recessed handle and reversible door are fantastic for tight dorm spaces. It fits under most standard desks with ease.
- Decent Internal Organization: Includes a slide-out glass shelf and door storage for taller items and cans.
Cons:
- Limited Freezer Space: Like many compacts, the freezer compartment is really just for an ice tray or a very small frozen item. It's prone to frost.
- Can Be Noisy on Startup: While generally quiet when running, the compressor can be a bit noticeable when it first kicks on, which might bother very sensitive sleepers.
Best Value/Budget-Friendly: Galanz GLR31TRDEE (3.1 cu ft)
For students who need a functional fridge without breaking the bank, the Galanz GLR31TRDEE offers fantastic value. It's a no-frills workhorse that gets the job done reliably.
Key Features:
- 3.1 cubic feet capacity – plenty of space for one or two students.
- Energy Star rated.
- Adjustable glass shelves and door storage.
- Small ice box freezer compartment.
- Available in various colors (often at different price points).
Pros:
- Excellent Price Point: This is where the Galanz truly shines. You get a good amount of reliable refrigeration for a very competitive price.
- Solid Cooling Performance: It chills drinks and food effectively and maintains consistent temperatures.
- Practical Storage: The interior is thoughtfully laid out with adjustable shelves and decent door storage, accommodating various items.
Cons:
- Basic Aesthetics: It’s not the most stylish fridge out there. The finish can feel a bit thin, and it lacks some of the premium touches of more expensive models.
- Freezer is Minimal: Like many single-door units, the small freezer section is really only for an ice tray. Don't rely on it for long-term frozen food storage, and it will require manual defrosting.
Best with Separate Freezer: RCA RFR835-BLACK (3.2 cu ft Two Door)
If you absolutely, positively need a proper freezer for ice cream, frozen meals, or a dedicated ice supply, then you need a two-door model. The RCA RFR835-BLACK is a popular choice for dorms that allow slightly larger units, offering true separation between your fresh and frozen goods.
Key Features:
- 3.2 cubic feet total capacity (with a dedicated freezer section).
- Separate top freezer door for genuine frozen storage.
- Adjustable glass shelves in the fridge compartment.
- Reversible doors and adjustable leveling legs.
Pros:
- True Freezer Space: This is the main draw. You can actually store frozen meals, pints of ice cream, and make a decent amount of ice without compromising fridge temperatures.
- Improved Organization: The separate compartments make it much easier to keep your fresh and frozen items organized and at their optimal temperatures.
- Reliable Cooling: Both compartments maintain their temperatures well, which is crucial for food safety.
Cons:
- Larger Footprint & Weight: While 3.2 cu ft, the two-door design means it can feel a bit bulkier than a single-door unit of similar capacity. It's also heavier to move.
- Can Be Noisier: With two compartments, the compressor might work a bit harder, leading to slightly more noticeable noise compared to some quieter single-door models.
- Higher Price Point: Dedicated freezers come at a cost, making this a pricier option than basic mini fridges.
Comparison Table: Best Mini Fridges for Dorm Rooms
Here’s a quick overview of our top picks to help you compare the key specs:
| Feature | Danby Designer DCR032C1BM | Midea WHS-65LSS1 | BLACK+DECKER BCRK17B | Galanz GLR31TRDEE | RCA RFR835-BLACK |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity (cu ft) | 3.2 | 1.6 | 1.7 | 3.1 | 3.2 |
| Cooling Type | Compressor | Thermoelectric | Compressor | Compressor | Compressor |
| Energy Star Certified | Yes | No | Yes | Yes | No (Check Specific Model) |
| Freezer Type | ½ width chiller | None | Small ice box | Small ice box | Separate Door |
| Noise Level | Quiet (Compressor) | Whisper-Quiet (Thermoelectric) | Low (Compressor) | Moderate (Compressor) | Moderate (Compressor) |
| Reversible Door | Yes | No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Ideal For | Most Students | Light Sleepers/Very Small Spaces | Tight Spaces/Under Desk | Budget-Conscious | Frozen Food Storage |
Setup & Maintenance Tips for Dorm Mini Fridges
Getting your mini fridge set up correctly and keeping it clean will ensure it lasts through all your college years. I've seen too many students neglect these simple steps, leading to foul smells or premature breakdowns.
- Proper Placement: Give your fridge some breathing room! Leave at least 3-5 inches of space around the back and sides for proper ventilation. Never shove it directly against a wall or into a super-tight cabinet. And make sure it's on a level surface to prevent undue stress on the compressor.
- Initial Setup: After you lug it into your dorm, let it stand upright for at least 4-6 hours (or even 24 hours for larger units) before plugging it in. This allows the compressor oils and refrigerants to settle, preventing damage. Before you load it up, give the interior a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth.
- Temperature Settings: Most fridges have a dial from 1 (warmest) to 7 (coldest). For most people, a setting in the middle (3-5) is usually sufficient to keep food safe (around 35-40°F or 1.7-4.4°C). Don't blast it to the coldest setting unless absolutely necessary, as it uses more energy and can sometimes freeze items in the main compartment.
- Defrosting: For manual defrost models, defrost every 2-3 months, or when ice buildup reaches about ¼ inch thick. Unplug it, empty it, prop the door open, and place towels underneath to catch melting ice. Never use sharp objects to chip away ice – you can puncture the refrigerant lines!
- Cleaning: Wipe down the interior regularly with a mild soap and water solution to prevent odors and mold. Don't forget the door seals! Vacuum or wipe the condenser coils on the back (if exposed) once a semester to improve efficiency.
- Energy-Saving Habits: Don't overpack your fridge, as it restricts airflow. Try to limit how often you open the door, and always make sure the door seals are clean and tight.
Bottom line:
Choosing the best mini fridge for dorm room living isn't just about convenience; it's about making your college experience more comfortable, healthier, and even more budget-friendly. From late-night study snacks to keeping your favorite drinks chilled, a good mini fridge is an unsung hero of dorm life.
When you're ready to buy, for most people, the key is to check dorm rules first. After that, think about size, how much noise it makes, and energy efficiency. Whether you need a whisper-quiet model for intense study sessions or a two-door unit for dedicated freezer space, there's a perfect mini fridge out there for you. Don't just settle for any old box; invest in a unit that will truly serve you well throughout your college journey. Ready to find your perfect dorm fridge and make your room the envy of the floor?
Sources & References
FAQ Questions
1. What is the best size mini fridge for a dorm room?
For most dorm rooms, a mini fridge between 1.6 and 3.2 cubic feet (cu ft) is ideal. A 1.6-1.7 cu ft model is great for tight spaces or under desks, providing enough room for personal drinks and snacks. If you have a bit more space and want to store leftovers or a wider variety of items, a 2.7-3.2 cu ft unit offers a good balance. Always measure your available space and check your dorm's specific size restrictions before purchasing, as some dorms have maximum height or width limits.
2. Are quiet mini fridges really necessary for dorms?
Absolutely, yes. In a small, shared dorm room, every sound is amplified. Believe me, a noisy mini fridge can be incredibly disruptive, making it hard to study, concentrate, or get a good night's sleep. I've heard countless complaints from students about loud compressors. For peace and quiet in your personal space, I really suggest investing in a model with a low decibel (dB) rating (ideally under 40dB) or even a thermoelectric unit (if you don't need a freezer and are okay with slightly less powerful cooling).
3. What is the typical wattage limit for a mini fridge in a dorm?
Most dorms impose wattage limits for appliances to prevent circuit overloads and fire hazards. While it varies by university, common wattage limits for a running mini fridge are typically between 100-200 watts. Some dorms might allow a higher startup wattage (when the compressor initially kicks on), but the continuous running wattage is key. Always check your specific university's housing guidelines for exact figures. To stay safe and compliant, look for Energy Star certified models, as they are designed to be more energy-efficient and operate within lower wattage ranges.
4. Can I put a mini fridge under my dorm bed or desk?
Yes, you can often put a compact mini fridge under your dorm bed or desk, provided there's adequate space and proper ventilation. This is a common space-saving solution for a compact mini fridge for college. However, you need to make sure there are at least 3-5 inches of clearance around the back and sides of the fridge for airflow. Blocking the vents can cause the
We tested over a dozen blenders under 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. Also see: Best Milk Frother Under $30 — our top picks for every budget.#1 NutriBullet Pro 900 — Best Personal Blender Under $100
NutriBullet Pro 900
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Cons
#2 Ninja BL610 — Best Full-Size Blender Under $100
Ninja BL610
Pros
Cons
#3 Oster Pro 1200 — Best Value for Performance Under $100
Oster Pro 1200
Pros
Cons
#4 Hamilton Beach Power Elite — Best Entry-Level Blender Under $100
Hamilton Beach Power Elite
Pros
Cons
#5 Vitamix E310 — Best Premium Pick Near the $100 Limit
Vitamix E310 Explorian
Pros
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Which One Should You Buy?
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best blender under $100 for smoothies?
Can a cheap blender crush ice?
NutriBullet vs Ninja — which is better for smoothies?
How long do budget blenders last?
Is a personal blender or full-size blender better for smoothies?
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
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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
#2
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
#3
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
#4
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
#5
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.
Also see: Best Milk Frother Under $30 — our top picks for every budget.
00
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
NutriBullet Pro 900
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
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
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
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
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.
Also see: Best Milk Frother Under $30 — our top picks for every budget.
NutriBullet Pro 900
The NutriBullet Pro 900 is the gold standard for personal blenders under 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. Also see: Best Milk Frother Under $30 — our top picks for every budget. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. Also see: Best Milk Frother Under $30 — our top picks for every budget.#1 NutriBullet Pro 900 — Best Personal Blender Under $100
NutriBullet Pro 900
Pros
Cons
#2 Ninja BL610 — Best Full-Size Blender Under $100
Ninja BL610
Pros
Cons
#3 Oster Pro 1200 — Best Value for Performance Under $100
Oster Pro 1200
Pros
Cons
#4 Hamilton Beach Power Elite — Best Entry-Level Blender Under $100
Hamilton Beach Power Elite
Pros
Cons
#5 Vitamix E310 — Best Premium Pick Near the $100 Limit
Vitamix E310 Explorian
Pros
Cons
Which One Should You Buy?
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best blender under $100 for smoothies?
Can a cheap blender crush ice?
NutriBullet vs Ninja — which is better for smoothies?
How long do budget blenders last?
Is a personal blender or full-size blender better for smoothies?
#1 NutriBullet Pro 900 — Best Personal Blender Under $100
NutriBullet Pro 900
Pros
Cons
#2 Ninja BL610 — Best Full-Size Blender Under $100
Ninja BL610
Pros
Cons
#3 Oster Pro 1200 — Best Value for Performance Under $100
Oster Pro 1200
Pros
Cons
#4 Hamilton Beach Power Elite — Best Entry-Level Blender Under $100
Hamilton Beach Power Elite
Pros
Cons
#5 Vitamix E310 — Best Premium Pick Near the $100 Limit
Vitamix E310 Explorian
Pros
Cons
Which One Should You Buy?
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best blender under $100 for smoothies?
Can a cheap blender crush ice?
NutriBullet vs Ninja — which is better for smoothies?
How long do budget blenders last?
Is a personal blender or full-size blender better for smoothies?
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
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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
#2
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
#3
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
#4
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
#5
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.
Also see: Best Milk Frother Under $30 — our top picks for every budget.
00
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
NutriBullet Pro 900
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
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
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
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
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.
Also see: Best Milk Frother Under $30 — our top picks for every budget.
Ninja BL610
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 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. Also see: Best Milk Frother Under $30 — our top picks for every budget. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. Also see: Best Milk Frother Under $30 — our top picks for every budget.#1 NutriBullet Pro 900 — Best Personal Blender Under $100
NutriBullet Pro 900
Pros
Cons
#2 Ninja BL610 — Best Full-Size Blender Under $100
Ninja BL610
Pros
Cons
#3 Oster Pro 1200 — Best Value for Performance Under $100
Oster Pro 1200
Pros
Cons
#4 Hamilton Beach Power Elite — Best Entry-Level Blender Under $100
Hamilton Beach Power Elite
Pros
Cons
#5 Vitamix E310 — Best Premium Pick Near the $100 Limit
Vitamix E310 Explorian
Pros
Cons
Which One Should You Buy?
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best blender under $100 for smoothies?
Can a cheap blender crush ice?
NutriBullet vs Ninja — which is better for smoothies?
How long do budget blenders last?
Is a personal blender or full-size blender better for smoothies?
#1 NutriBullet Pro 900 — Best Personal Blender Under $100
NutriBullet Pro 900
Pros
Cons
#2 Ninja BL610 — Best Full-Size Blender Under $100
Ninja BL610
Pros
Cons
#3 Oster Pro 1200 — Best Value for Performance Under $100
Oster Pro 1200
Pros
Cons
#4 Hamilton Beach Power Elite — Best Entry-Level Blender Under $100
Hamilton Beach Power Elite
Pros
Cons
#5 Vitamix E310 — Best Premium Pick Near the $100 Limit
Vitamix E310 Explorian
Pros
Cons
Which One Should You Buy?
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best blender under $100 for smoothies?
Can a cheap blender crush ice?
NutriBullet vs Ninja — which is better for smoothies?
How long do budget blenders last?
Is a personal blender or full-size blender better for smoothies?
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
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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
#2
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
#3
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
#4
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
#5
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.
Also see: Best Milk Frother Under $30 — our top picks for every budget.
00
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
NutriBullet Pro 900
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
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
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
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
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.
Also see: Best Milk Frother Under $30 — our top picks for every budget.
Oster Pro 1200
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 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. Also see: Best Milk Frother Under $30 — our top picks for every budget.#1 NutriBullet Pro 900 — Best Personal Blender Under $100
NutriBullet Pro 900
Pros
Cons
#2 Ninja BL610 — Best Full-Size Blender Under $100
Ninja BL610
Pros
Cons
#3 Oster Pro 1200 — Best Value for Performance Under $100
Oster Pro 1200
Pros
Cons
#4 Hamilton Beach Power Elite — Best Entry-Level Blender Under $100
Hamilton Beach Power Elite
Pros
Cons
#5 Vitamix E310 — Best Premium Pick Near the $100 Limit
Vitamix E310 Explorian
Pros
Cons
Which One Should You Buy?
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best blender under $100 for smoothies?
Can a cheap blender crush ice?
NutriBullet vs Ninja — which is better for smoothies?
How long do budget blenders last?
Is a personal blender or full-size blender better for smoothies?
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
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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
#2
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
#3
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
#4
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
#5
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.
Also see: Best Milk Frother Under $30 — our top picks for every budget.
00
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
NutriBullet Pro 900
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
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
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
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
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.
Also see: Best Milk Frother Under $30 — our top picks for every budget.
Hamilton Beach Power Elite
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
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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
#2
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
#3
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
#4
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
#5
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.
Also see: Best Milk Frother Under $30 — our top picks for every budget.
00 Limit
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
NutriBullet Pro 900
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
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
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
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
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.
Also see: Best Milk Frother Under $30 — our top picks for every budget.
Vitamix E310 Explorian
The Vitamix E310 Explorian sits right at the edge of our 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. Also see: Best Milk Frother Under $30 — our top picks for every budget. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. Also see: Best Milk Frother Under $30 — our top picks for every budget. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. Also see: Best Milk Frother Under $30 — our top picks for every budget.#1 NutriBullet Pro 900 — Best Personal Blender Under $100
NutriBullet Pro 900
Pros
Cons
#2 Ninja BL610 — Best Full-Size Blender Under $100
Ninja BL610
Pros
Cons
#3 Oster Pro 1200 — Best Value for Performance Under $100
Oster Pro 1200
Pros
Cons
#4 Hamilton Beach Power Elite — Best Entry-Level Blender Under $100
Hamilton Beach Power Elite
Pros
Cons
#5 Vitamix E310 — Best Premium Pick Near the $100 Limit
Vitamix E310 Explorian
Pros
Cons
Which One Should You Buy?
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best blender under $100 for smoothies?
Can a cheap blender crush ice?
NutriBullet vs Ninja — which is better for smoothies?
How long do budget blenders last?
Is a personal blender or full-size blender better for smoothies?
#1 NutriBullet Pro 900 — Best Personal Blender Under $100
NutriBullet Pro 900
Pros
Cons
#2 Ninja BL610 — Best Full-Size Blender Under $100
Ninja BL610
Pros
Cons
#3 Oster Pro 1200 — Best Value for Performance Under $100
Oster Pro 1200
Pros
Cons
#4 Hamilton Beach Power Elite — Best Entry-Level Blender Under $100
Hamilton Beach Power Elite
Pros
Cons
#5 Vitamix E310 — Best Premium Pick Near the $100 Limit
Vitamix E310 Explorian
Pros
Cons
Which One Should You Buy?
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best blender under $100 for smoothies?
Can a cheap blender crush ice?
NutriBullet vs Ninja — which is better for smoothies?
How long do budget blenders last?
Is a personal blender or full-size blender better for smoothies?
#1 NutriBullet Pro 900 — Best Personal Blender Under $100
NutriBullet Pro 900
Pros
Cons
#2 Ninja BL610 — Best Full-Size Blender Under $100
Ninja BL610
Pros
Cons
#3 Oster Pro 1200 — Best Value for Performance Under $100
Oster Pro 1200
Pros
Cons
#4 Hamilton Beach Power Elite — Best Entry-Level Blender Under $100
Hamilton Beach Power Elite
Pros
Cons
#5 Vitamix E310 — Best Premium Pick Near the $100 Limit
Vitamix E310 Explorian
Pros
Cons
Which One Should You Buy?
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best blender under $100 for smoothies?
Can a cheap blender crush ice?
NutriBullet vs Ninja — which is better for smoothies?
How long do budget blenders last?
Is a personal blender or full-size blender better for smoothies?
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
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 OverallNutriBullet Pro 900
9.0 Scout ScoreThe 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
#2Ninja BL610
8.7 Scout ScoreIf 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
#3Oster Pro 1200
8.4 Scout ScoreThe 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
#4Hamilton Beach Power Elite
7.8 Scout ScoreThe 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
#5Vitamix E310 Explorian
9.3 Scout ScoreThe 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.
Also see: Best Milk Frother Under $30 — our top picks for every budget.
- Large and heavy — not a compact countertop blender
- No single-serve cup included
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
NutriBullet Pro 900
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
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
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
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
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.
Also see: Best Milk Frother Under $30 — our top picks for every budget.
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
NutriBullet Pro 900
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
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
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
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
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.
Also see: Best Milk Frother Under $30 — our top picks for every budget.
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
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 OverallNutriBullet Pro 900
9.0 Scout ScoreThe 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
#2Ninja BL610
8.7 Scout ScoreIf 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
#3Oster Pro 1200
8.4 Scout ScoreThe 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
#4Hamilton Beach Power Elite
7.8 Scout ScoreThe 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
#5Vitamix E310 Explorian
9.3 Scout ScoreThe 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.
Also see: Best Milk Frother Under $30 — our top picks for every budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best blender under
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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
#2
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
#3
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
#4
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
#5
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.
Also see: Best Milk Frother Under $30 — our top picks for every budget.
00 for smoothies?
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
NutriBullet Pro 900
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
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
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
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
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.
Also see: Best Milk Frother Under $30 — our top picks for every budget.
For most people, the NutriBullet Pro 900 is the best blender under 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. Also see: Best Milk Frother Under $30 — our top picks for every budget. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. Also see: Best Milk Frother Under $30 — our top picks for every budget.#1 NutriBullet Pro 900 — Best Personal Blender Under $100
NutriBullet Pro 900
Pros
Cons
#2 Ninja BL610 — Best Full-Size Blender Under $100
Ninja BL610
Pros
Cons
#3 Oster Pro 1200 — Best Value for Performance Under $100
Oster Pro 1200
Pros
Cons
#4 Hamilton Beach Power Elite — Best Entry-Level Blender Under $100
Hamilton Beach Power Elite
Pros
Cons
#5 Vitamix E310 — Best Premium Pick Near the $100 Limit
Vitamix E310 Explorian
Pros
Cons
Which One Should You Buy?
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best blender under $100 for smoothies?
Can a cheap blender crush ice?
NutriBullet vs Ninja — which is better for smoothies?
How long do budget blenders last?
Is a personal blender or full-size blender better for smoothies?
#1 NutriBullet Pro 900 — Best Personal Blender Under $100
NutriBullet Pro 900
Pros
Cons
#2 Ninja BL610 — Best Full-Size Blender Under $100
Ninja BL610
Pros
Cons
#3 Oster Pro 1200 — Best Value for Performance Under $100
Oster Pro 1200
Pros
Cons
#4 Hamilton Beach Power Elite — Best Entry-Level Blender Under $100
Hamilton Beach Power Elite
Pros
Cons
#5 Vitamix E310 — Best Premium Pick Near the $100 Limit
Vitamix E310 Explorian
Pros
Cons
Which One Should You Buy?
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best blender under $100 for smoothies?
Can a cheap blender crush ice?
NutriBullet vs Ninja — which is better for smoothies?
How long do budget blenders last?
Is a personal blender or full-size blender better for smoothies?
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.
Also see: Best Milk Frother Under $30 — our top picks for every budget.