If you love whipping up daily smoothies, nut butters, and blended soups, you’ve probably drooled over those sleek high-performance blenders from Vitamix, Blendtec, and other luxury brands. With price tags in the $400-$600 range, they are a serious investment for most home cooks. But should you splurge on one of these blenders, or opt for a cheaper model? There’s also a middle ground – snagging a refurbished high-end blender at a fraction of retail price. Let’s compare the pros and cons of new budget blenders vs refurbished luxury models to help you decide.
While a refurbished Vitamix or Blendtec may sound tempting, brand new budget-friendly blenders have some distinct advantages:
Lower Upfront Cost – You can typically find a decent blender under $100, sometimes as low as $20-50 for a basic model. Far more affordable than the $400+ for a Vitamix.
Warranty Included – A new blender will come with a warranty (typically 1-5 years) covering defects. Refurbished blenders usually have a shorter warranty period.
Latest Features – Budget blenders include modern touches like presets and timer functions. Refurbs may lack the newest tech.
Perfect Condition – Since it’s unused, you know it won’t have any scratches, stains or worn parts right off the bat. No surprises down the road.
For buyers on a tight budget or who only blend occasionally, a new bargain-priced blender is often the best choice.
On the other hand, factory reconditioned luxury blenders have some compelling benefits:
Substantial Discount – Refurbs are discounted 30-60% off full retail price. A refurb Vitamix 5200 is around $280 vs $550 new.
Proven Durability – They may have minor cosmetic flaws, but refurb blenders are rebuilt to function like new. Vitamixes in particular are workhorses, built to last years.
Superior Performance – High-end blenders like Vitamix have much more power and faster blades, making them better at tough tasks like ice cream and nut butter.
Future Resale Value – Refurbished or not, Vitamix and Blendtec blenders maintain excellent resale value if you eventually want to sell or upgrade. Cheaper blenders don’t have this advantage.
For frequent users who want commercial grade power in their kitchen, a refurbished blender is compelling for the performance at a more affordable price point.
Here are some key factors to weigh when trying to choose between the two options:
Your Budget – How much are you willing and able to spend upfront? Refurbished Vitamix and Blendtec models run $200-$400 while a good new budget blender is under $100.
Blending Frequency – Do you only make the occasional smoothie or frequently blend large batches for a big family? Frequent use demands a more durable machine.
Types of Recipes – Make lots of nut butter and ice cream? The power of a refurb Vitamix makes a difference. For basic smoothies and shakes, a budget blender suffices.
Future Upgrades – Re-selling a Vitamix or Blendtec down the road recoups more value if you think you may upgrade again.
Warranty Length – Refurbished blenders tend to have shorter warranties, sometimes only 6 months. Low-budget models typically offer 1-3 years.
Available Space – Refurbished commercial blenders take up serious counter real estate. If your kitchen is cramped, a compact budget model may work better.
If you decide to splurge on a refurbished high-performance blender, here are some of the best certified reconditioned models to consider:
Vitamix 5200 – With a 64-ounce container and 2-horsepower motor, this is a refurbished blending workhorse perfect for most kitchens. Expect around $280 refurbished.
Vitamix 7500 – Slight upgrade to the 5200 with a wider, lower profile container plus 2.2 peak HP motor and pulse function. Usually around $340 refurbished.
Blendtec Classic 575 – Touchscreen controls and pre-programmed cycles in a compact, but powerful package. About $200-250 refurbished.
Blendtec Professional 800 – High-capacity 96-ounce jar and 3.8 peak horsepower motor make this one a refurbished powerhouse. Around $300.
When purchased through the manufacturer, refurbished blenders come with a full inspection, replacement parts, cleaning, warranty, and the assurance of quality. For barely more than a budget blender, you get commercial performance and durability.
If you’d prefer to spend under $100 and are less of a power user, there are plenty of quality budget blenders to consider:
Focus on a Crush Pro 4, 6 blade design, BPA-free jar material, and at least 500 watts of power. With lower expectations, budget blenders can handle daily basics just fine.
For most home cooks doing casual blending a few times a week, a good new budget-priced blender is probably sufficient. The lower cost and included warranty are big perks. However, for power users, big families, or those wanting to make frozen desserts and nut butters regularly, springing for a high-performance refurbished Vitamix or Blendtec is worth it.
The power and durability will tackle tough tasks better and longer, while still costing hundreds less than full retail price. For those planning to use their blender frequently and long-term, who have the space for a countertop workhorse, a refurbished commercial blender is a smart splurge that will pay for itself over time. Just be sure to buy directly from the manufacturer to get the full warranty and support. Happy blending!
In summary, choosing between a new budget blender vs a refurbished high-end model comes down to your blending frequency, performance needs, budget, and warranty preferences. For power users, a refurbished Vitamix or Blendtec provides exceptional blending muscle for hundreds less than full price. But more casual users are often better served by a sub $100 blender with ample features and a good warranty. Weigh your options carefully, read reviews, and your blender can deliver delicious results for years!
