Portable blenders are a convenient way to make smoothies anywhere, whether you're at work, traveling, or hitting the gym. If you're shopping for one, here's what you need to know:
- Best Overall: Pro+ Ice Crushing Portable Blender ($44.99) – Powerful 120W motor, ice-crushing capability, and USB-C charging.
- Most Affordable: BLENDi Lite ($22.50) – Lightweight and budget-friendly, great for soft fruits and simple blends.
- Largest Capacity: BLENDi X ($59.99) – 24 oz capacity, 150W motor, and excellent for ice and frozen fruits.
- Compact Option: NutriBullet GO (Discontinued) – Slim design, 10 oz capacity, and 20 blends per charge.
- Best for Travel: PopBabies Portable Blender (~$70) – TSA-compliant with a mini ice cube tray for easier blending.
Quick Comparison
| Blender | Price | Capacity | Power | Ice-Crushing | Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| BLENDi Lite | $22.50 | 17 oz | 70W | No | 12 oz |
| Pro+ Ice Crushing | $44.99 | 17.5 oz | 120W | Yes | 1.41 lbs |
| BLENDi X | $59.99 | 24 oz | 150W | Yes | 2 lbs |
| NutriBullet GO | Discontinued | 10 oz | 70W | No | 1.6 lbs |
| PopBabies | ~$70 | Varies | 175W | Limited | 14 oz |
When choosing, think about your blending needs. For soft fruits, budget models like the BLENDi Lite work well. For ice or frozen ingredients, go for the Pro+ or BLENDi X. Portability and battery life are also key for on-the-go lifestyles.
Top 5 Best Portable Blenders in 2024 - STOP Wasting Money on the WRONG Portable Blender
What to Look for in a Portable Blender
Finding the right portable blender can make all the difference when it comes to enjoying smooth, creamy blends wherever you go. With so many options out there, focusing on a few key features can help you pick one that suits your lifestyle and budget.
Capacity is key. Portable blenders typically come in sizes like 17 fl oz for single servings or 24 fl oz if you need a bit more volume. If you're someone who enjoys larger portions, you might want to trade a little portability for extra capacity.
Power impacts performance. The motor's strength determines how well your blender handles different ingredients. Lower-powered models are fine for soft fruits, but if you want to blend tougher ingredients or achieve smoother textures, look for a higher-wattage motor. Think about what you'll be blending most often to choose the right balance between power and portability.
Battery life makes a difference. Most portable blenders offer between 10 and 20 blends per USB charge. To keep things convenient, go for a USB-rechargeable model that you can power up from your car, desk, or even a portable power bank.
Not all blenders crush ice. If you love icy smoothies, be sure to pick a model specifically designed for ice-crushing. Many portable blenders don't have this capability, so double-check before buying.
Weight and size affect portability. Most portable blenders weigh between 1 and 2 pounds. If you plan to carry yours daily, a lightweight, compact design will be much easier to manage.
Safety features add peace of mind. Look for models with secure-part locking, automatic shut-off, or lock modes. These features not only protect you but also help extend the life of your blender.
Material quality matters. Choose a blender made from BPA-free, high-quality materials. While food-grade plastic is common, some premium options use glass or stainless steel components. If you'll be drinking directly from the blending container, BPA-free materials are especially important.
Easy cleaning is a must. Cleaning a portable blender shouldn't be a hassle. Models with detachable, self-cleaning components or removable blades can save you a lot of time and effort.
Prices vary for every budget. Entry-level blenders can cost under $50, while premium models with extra features may go up to $150. Basic options, usually priced between $20 and $30, are great for simple smoothies. Mid-range models around $40 to $60 often include perks like ice-crushing, and those above $60 might offer multiple blending modes, longer battery life, or extra accessories.
If you're blending daily, it’s worth investing in a more durable and powerful model. On the other hand, if you only blend occasionally, a simpler, budget-friendly option should do the trick. Whether you're at home, at work, or always on the move, choosing a blender with the right features will ensure it fits seamlessly into your routine.
1. BLENDi Lite Portable Blender
The BLENDi Lite offers dependable performance at a wallet-friendly price of $22.50 (regularly $29.99). With a 4.1 out of 5-star rating on Amazon from 82 reviews, this compact blender is built for single-serving smoothies and shakes. Here's a closer look at its key features - capacity, power, ice-crushing ability, and portability - to see how it stacks up for on-the-go use.
Capacity (oz)
The BLENDi Lite has a 17 fl oz capacity, making it perfect for individual portions. Keep in mind that aeration during blending may slightly reduce the usable volume.
Power (watts/battery life)
Equipped with a 70W motor, this blender works well with soft fruits and protein powders. On a full charge, it can handle up to 10 blending cycles, which is great for quick use throughout the day. That said, it may struggle with thicker mixtures or frozen berries.
Ice-Crushing Capability
This model isn't designed to crush ice. If you’re craving a chilled smoothie, you’ll want to use fresh or room-temperature ingredients and add pre-crushed ice instead.
Portability (weight/size)
Weighing only 12 ounces and standing 9 inches tall with a 3-inch diameter, the BLENDi Lite is incredibly portable. Its compact size allows it to easily fit into a bag, purse, or carry-on, making it a great choice for travel, work, or gym sessions.
Note: TSA guidelines require you to remove the blade if packing it in your carry-on.
2. Pro+ Ice Crushing Portable Blender
The Pro+ Ice Crushing Portable Blender offers impressive performance at a discounted price of $44.99 (regularly $59.99). With ratings between 4.2 and 4.8 stars across multiple platforms and over 1,000 reviews, it’s a popular choice for anyone seeking a reliable, portable blender. Let’s dive into its standout features.
Capacity (oz)
The Pro+ boasts a 17.5-ounce capacity, making it ideal for single-serving smoothies. Plus, it doubles as a travel water bottle, adding convenience to your daily routine. Whether you’re blending a quick breakfast or hydrating on the go, this blender is designed to fit seamlessly into your lifestyle.
Power (watts/battery life)
Equipped with a 120W motor, the Pro+ packs more power than its Lite counterpart. Its USB-C rechargeable battery ensures steady performance throughout the day, and the self-cleaning feature makes cleanup effortless - perfect for busy schedules.
Ice-Crushing Capability
Thanks to its 120W motor and specially engineered blades, the Pro+ can handle about six ice cubes with ease, along with fruits and other ingredients. For the best results, it’s recommended to use pre-cut ice cubes.
Portability (weight/size)
Weighing just 1.41 pounds and measuring 3 inches in diameter by 12 inches in height, the Pro+ is compact enough to fit in standard cup holders. Its travel-friendly design includes thoughtful extras like a water bottle conversion piece, blade cover, detachable wrist strap, and storage case, making it an excellent companion for life on the move.
3. BLENDi X Ice Crushing Portable Blender
The BLENDi X stands out as the most powerful option in the BLENDi lineup. It’s priced at $59.99 (down from its regular price of $79.99) and has earned a 3.9-star rating from 82 Amazon reviews.
Capacity (oz)
With a 24-ounce capacity, the BLENDi X offers the largest container in the BLENDi family, making it perfect for single servings. One happy customer shared:
"The 24 oz capacity is the perfect size for making protein shakes, smoothies, and even mixed drinks without taking up too much space." – Amanda, Amazon Vine Customer
This blender also doubles as a water bottle, thanks to its included conversion accessory. Its ample size pairs perfectly with its impressive performance.
Power (watts/battery life)
The 150W motor and USB-C rechargeable battery deliver up to 10 blends per charge, with a full recharge taking about five hours. One verified buyer mentioned that while the motor is a bit louder, it provides stronger blending power, a larger cup, and better seal indicators. This makes it a reliable companion for those with busy, on-the-go lifestyles.
Ice-Crushing Capability
Equipped with a 150W motor and six sturdy blades, the BLENDi X excels at crushing ice and frozen fruits. While it performs well with most frozen ingredients, some users have noted that extremely hard items might leave small chunks. To achieve the smoothest results, it’s best to add liquids before blending solid ingredients like fruits or nuts.
Portability (weight/size)
Weighing just 2 pounds and measuring 11″x4″, the BLENDi X is compact and easy to carry. Its 24-ounce container also serves as a water bottle, making it incredibly versatile. One customer described it as "easy to use and travel with". Plus, the included travel case adds an extra layer of convenience for those on the move.
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4. NutriBullet GO Portable Blender
The NutriBullet GO is a compact blender designed for portability without sacrificing reliability. With a 4.0-star rating from 3,606 reviews on Amazon, it’s a popular choice for those who need a dependable blending solution on the move. Like the other models in the NutriBullet family, it strikes a balance between convenience and performance.
Capacity (oz)
This blender comes with a 13-oz cup, clearly marked with a "Max Fill" line at 10 oz, making it perfect for single servings. While the size is ideal for quick smoothies or shakes, some users feel it could be limiting for larger portions.
Power (watts/battery life)
The NutriBullet GO features a 70W motor that spins at 18,000 RPM, powered by a 2,200mAh battery. A full charge supports up to 20 blending cycles and recharges in less than 3 hours. While many users are impressed with its efficiency for quick blending tasks, others mention needing to recharge it more frequently than expected.
Portability (weight/size)
Weighing just 1.6 pounds and measuring 3.3″ L x 3.74″ W x 10.16″ H, this slim blender is designed to fit into most car cupholders. Its handled lid makes it easy to carry, and it’s compact enough to slip into gym bags, backpacks, or even carry-on luggage. Whether for travel, work, or workouts, users appreciate how seamlessly it fits into their routines.
"Lightweight, compact, and ready for adventure, the nutribullet Portable Blender lets you enjoy all your favorite smoothies, shakes, and blended drinks on the go." – nutribullet.com
5. PopBabies Portable Blender
The PopBabies Portable Blender is a budget-friendly option designed for those who want a reliable, compact blender for everyday smoothies and shakes. Priced between $36.99 and $69.99, it caters to a range of budgets and preferences. With a 4.2-star rating from over 19,400 reviews on Amazon, it’s clear this little blender has found its audience.
Capacity (oz)
PopBabies offers three versions to suit different needs: the Classic with a 17-ounce bottle (14 ounces usable), the Improved with a 15-ounce bottle (12 ounces usable), and the 2nd Version with a 630 ml bottle (about 21 ounces). To get the best results, it’s recommended to fill the bottle only up to two-thirds of its capacity.
Power (watts/battery life)
This blender runs on 175 watts, which is sufficient for basic blending tasks. Its battery can handle about 20 blending cycles per charge, with each cycle lasting around 20 seconds. While it’s great for protein shakes and softer ingredients, some users have even managed to blend ice with it - though it performs best when ice is used in small amounts or mixed into a shake.
Ice-Crushing Capability
When it comes to crushing ice, the PopBabies blender has its limits. It scores 3.5 out of 10 for handling standard-sized ice cubes. However, it comes with a mini ice cube tray that produces 2-gram cubes, which are easier for the blender to process. Achieving a smooth texture may take about a minute and might still leave a few unprocessed pieces. Interestingly, it performs better with frozen berries, making it a decent choice for fruit-based smoothies.
Portability (weight/size)
Weighing just 14 ounces and measuring 3.2 x 3.2 x 10.2 inches, the PopBabies blender is incredibly easy to carry around. Its compact size and TSA-compliant blade system make it a great travel companion, whether you’re heading to work, the gym, or on vacation. The blend-and-drink design means you don’t need extra containers, adding to its convenience. TechGearLab gave it an 8.0 out of 10 for portability, solidifying its reputation as a go-to option for on-the-go blending.
Comparison Table
This table highlights how each portable blender caters to different lifestyle needs. Check out the key features of these five options:
| Feature | BLENDi Lite | Pro+ Ice Crushing | BLENDi X | NutriBullet GO | PopBabies |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price (USD) | $22.50 | $44.99 | $59.99 | Discontinued | ~$70* |
| Capacity (oz) | 17 | 17 | 24 | N/A | Varies |
| Power (watts) | 70 | 120 | 150 | N/A | Not specified |
| Ice-Crushing | No | Yes | Yes | N/A | Limited |
*Price may vary by seller.
Key Takeaways from the Comparison
- BLENDi Lite: The most affordable option, priced at $22.50.
- Pro+ Ice Crushing: Offers added versatility with a 120-watt motor and travel-friendly features for $44.99.
- BLENDi X: Stands out with a 24-ounce capacity, a 150W motor, and dual operating modes, priced at $59.99.
- NutriBullet GO: This model is no longer available as it has been discontinued.
- PopBabies: A convenient travel option, but with limited ice-crushing capabilities.
Additional Considerations
- For best results, avoid overfilling your blender. Filling it to two-thirds capacity is ideal - a 24-ounce bottle will provide about 20 ounces of usable space.
- Keep in mind that higher wattage doesn't always mean better ice-crushing performance. The design of the blades and the motor's efficiency play a crucial role.
Conclusion
Picking the right portable blender comes down to understanding your needs and budget. The BLENDi series offers a variety of options to suit different lifestyles and preferences.
The BLENDi Lite, priced at just $22.50, proves that affordability doesn’t mean sacrificing quality. With its 70-watt motor, it’s perfect for blending softer fruits and vegetables, making it a solid choice for students or anyone looking to save money while staying healthy.
For those who need more power, the Pro+ at $44.99 and the BLENDi X at $59.99 are excellent upgrades. The BLENDi X, in particular, stands out with its larger 24-ounce capacity, ideal for those who want bigger servings or need to crush ice and blend tougher ingredients.
"If you're a fitness enthusiast, student on the go, busy professional, or a frequent traveler, a portable blender is a must-have for a healthy lifestyle." - Lydia Hayman, Kitchen product tester
Beyond their performance, BLENDi models shine with their compact size and dependable battery life. They’re easy to pack in a carry-on for flights or toss into a backpack for hiking adventures.
For active professionals, these blenders double as both a blending tool and a convenient drinking bottle, offering unmatched versatility.
When choosing your blender, think about what you’ll be blending most often. If your go-to ingredients are soft fruits like bananas and berries, a budget-friendly model under $50 will likely meet your needs. On the other hand, if you regularly tackle frozen fruits, ice, or tougher vegetables, investing in a more powerful model will save time and deliver smoother results.
Portable blenders make it easy to maintain a healthy routine, no matter where life takes you. Whether you're commuting, traveling cross-country, or camping in the great outdoors, the right blender ensures you can enjoy nutritious, delicious drinks without skipping a beat.
FAQs
What should I look for when choosing a portable blender for my lifestyle?
When choosing a portable blender, start by looking at how easy it is to carry. Consider the size and weight to make sure it won’t be a hassle to take with you. Next, check the battery life - you’ll want something that can handle your schedule, especially if you’ll be using it away from outlets. The capacity also matters; pick a size that matches the portions you usually make.
Don’t overlook the blending power, often measured in watts. If you plan to crush tougher ingredients like frozen fruit or ice, you’ll need a blender with enough strength to handle the job. Safety is another big factor - look for rust-resistant blades and secure lids to prevent accidents. Lastly, think about how you’ll use it. Whether you’re traveling, working long hours, or staying active, choose a blender that fits seamlessly into your lifestyle.
How can I tell if a portable blender is powerful enough to crush ice?
If you're planning to crush ice, you'll want a portable blender with a motor power between 600 and 1,000 watts. This power range is strong enough to tackle the hard texture of ice and turn it into a smooth blend. It's also worth checking if the blender is built for ice-crushing - some models come with sturdy blades or specific settings designed just for this task.
To ensure you’re getting the right tool for the job, always review the manufacturer’s specs and guidelines to verify the blender’s capabilities.
What are the best ways to maintain my portable blender for long-lasting use?
To keep your portable blender working like a charm, make it a habit to clean it after every use. Use mild soap and warm water for the jar and blades, but never submerge the base in water - just wipe it down with a damp cloth. When cleaning the blades, handle them carefully to prevent injuries or damage. Once you're done, dry all parts completely to prevent bacteria growth and any lingering odors.
For the best performance, stick to the recommended charging routine and avoid overfilling the blender when using it. A little care goes a long way in ensuring your blender stays reliable for all your grab-and-go smoothie adventures!
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