Blenders that chop ice should begin with a heavy glass jar that will not scratch. Although plastic jars are adequate, they soon look old due to scratches, and do not supply the weight needed to keep the blender stationary. Plastic jars hold the odors of foods like onions, even after a thorough washing. The jar should fit securely in the base of the kitchen blender.
Consider paying at least $50 for a dependable Cuisinart blender, and probably not more than $140 unless you are looking for a commercial blender loaded with bells and whistles. If you are using your kitchen blender for blended drinks, there are a couple of drink blenders that come with taps or plugs for easy serving, and Kitchenaid blenders that are elegant enough to set on a serving table.
Look for high wattage and a lid design that fits securely but allows for easy pouring and adding of ingredients. Heavier Waring blenders work better under the stress of chopping or crushing ice.
Power in Numbers
Oster blenders offers three models ranging from $50-$60, each with five-cup-capacity glass jars and 12 or 16 speeds. These stainless steel blenders have a 450-watt motor, stainless steel blades for chopping or crushing ice, and components are dishwasher-safe.
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Upgrade a bit to Cuisinart blenders with ice-crushing abilities. Priced from $70-$140, the least expensive belnder is available in four finishes, has a glass jar, easy-pour lid, touchpad control, and a 500-watt motor. The mid-priced Cuisinart blender boasts a 1500-watt pulse-power motor, stainless steel finish, and 56-ounce glass jar. The Supreme Super 600 has a torque motor that launches a power attack on ice.
Waring makes a line of commercial blenders priced from just over $100 to over $700. Two blenders under $140 offer half- and 3/4-hp motors; they crush ice in seconds and are perfect for those who serve a large quantity of blended drinks.
