If you want a high-performing Vitamix blender without spending EUR 428, the Vitamix VX1 is the smarter buy. Priced at EUR 326, it saves you EUR 103 compared to pricier models while still delivering serious power, a modern design, and convenient extras like self-cleaning and pulse modes.
Vitamix has become a household name in the blender category, much like Kleenex or Band-Aid in their respective spaces. That reputation makes the brand an easy choice for shoppers, but the company sells several versions of its most popular machines, which complicates the decision. In head-to-head testing of the VX1 and the classic 5200, the more expensive option did not prove to be the better one.
Vitamix VX1 vs. 5200: How They Compare
The VX1 launched as a replacement for the discontinued Explorian and now ranks among Vitamix’s most affordable full-size blenders. Both the VX1 and the 5200 offer a 64-ounce capacity, 10 speeds, and cord storage underneath, and neither is dishwasher-safe. The VX1 pulls ahead with a few added features: a pulse mode, a self-cleaning program, and 0.2 more horsepower. It also has a slightly smaller footprint.
The VX1 measures 9.5 by 7.8 by 19.6 inches, while the 5200 measures 20.5 by 8.75 by 7.25 inches. Under the hood, the VX1 runs on 1,440 watts compared to the 1,380-watt 5200.
Where Each Blender Wins in Testing
The 1,440-watt VX1 outperformed 10 other models when blending raw almonds into almond butter, finishing in just 1 minute and 13 seconds. It also turned chickpeas into hummus in under a minute. By comparison, the 5200 needed 1 minute and 51 seconds for almond butter and 1 minute and 41 seconds for hummus. The 5200 also took 12 seconds longer to blend a green smoothie.
The 5200 did excel in two specific tasks. It crushed cubed ice into a snow-like texture in 24 seconds, leaving only two medium cubes, while the VX1 took 26 seconds and left several large chunks. The 5200 also blended butternut squash soup in 12 seconds, five seconds faster than the VX1. On top of that, the 5200 ran slightly quieter when mixing a green smoothie on high, hitting a maximum of 93 A-weighted decibels versus 95.1 dBA for the VX1.
The 5200 lacks a pulse mode but includes a dedicated “high” speed switch, which is useful for tough ingredients when you would rather not adjust a speed dial. Even with these advantages, the performance gap does not justify the higher cost.
Which Vitamix Model to Buy
For most shoppers, the VX1 is the model to keep on the counter. It combines strong power, a more modern look, and helpful conveniences at a lower price. Buyers who don’t need a large 64-ounce capacity can instead consider a personal blender such as the Ninja BlendBoss, which sells for EUR 111. The Vitamix VX1 is currently
