Positives

• The Consumer Reports performance tests conducted on the blender included evaluating the appliance's ability to puree vegetables, blend smoothies and crush ice cubes. The blender has the capability to process whole fruits and vegetables and grind grains for flour.
  
  The blender comes with a 30-day money back guarantee and a full seven-year warranty, according to the Vita-Mix website. The blender stands up to daily use, as noted by the Consumer Search website. Consumer Reports advises shoppers to not buy in to high wattage or the number of speeds as a feature in a blender as these made little difference in performance during their testing process.
  
  

Considerations

• While the Consumer Search website suggests this model is capable of grinding grains for flour, the Vita-Mix website lists the product as "perfect for those who don't plan to grind grains." However, the company sells a package for use with the 5200 model that includes a 32-oz. dry blade container for grinding grains and kneading dough.
  
  

Negatives

• Of the few negatives listed for the blender, Consumer Search noted noise and price of the machine. The website also called the appliance "overkill" for those hoping to merely blend smoothies or create purees. At 20.5 inches tall with the jar seated, the height of the machine may make fitting it under some cabinets difficult when used on the kitchen counter. The plastic of the jar may eventually mar or stain.
  
  

Features

• The 5200 model features a two-horsepower motor. The blender offers a variable speed control to provide consistent power regardless of the ingredient. The speeds vary from 11 to 240 mph. A radial cooling fan serves the motor. The heavy-duty cord has a three-prong grounded plug, reaches from 19 inches to 6 feet and can be hidden from view.
  
  The 64-oz. container jar is made of BPA-free plastic with a soft-grip ergonomic handle. The lid construction allows you to add ingredients as the machine blends. The removable portion of the lid includes marks for measuring add-in items. According to the Vita-Mix website, the jar is a "wet-blade container with stainless steel hammermill and cutting blades."
  
  A tamper helps the user process ingredients more efficiently. The tamper is made with a collar that prevents it from coming into contact with the blades. The blender comes in three colors or brushed stainless steel and cleans up simply by blending soapy water in the container jar.