If you’ve been torn between the Vitamix E310 vs 5200, I totally get it — I’ve used both, and they each shine in different ways. The E310 feels compact and practical for daily smoothies, while the 5200 delivers more power for family-sized batches. From my experience, both handle tough ingredients with ease, but the right choice depends on how much and how often you blend. Let’s break down the real-world differences so you can pick the blender that truly fits your kitchen routine.
Vitamix E310 Explorian Blender Review
The Vitamix E310, also called the Explorian, is a simple, powerful blender that gets the job done without fancy extras. I’ve used it for years, mostly for smoothies, and it’s still going strong. It blends fast, handles tough ingredients like carrots and nuts, and is the right size for small households. If you want a professional-grade blender that’s built to last and doesn’t overcomplicate things, the E310 is a solid pick.
It’s not whisper-quiet, and the lid can be a bit tight, but the performance more than makes up for it. In short, this blender proves that power and reliability matter more than extra buttons.
To buy this product, Click Here.
What I Like
- Consistent power and results: The 2 HP motor makes smoothies silky smooth, even with frozen fruit or nuts. It’s the same motor strength used in higher-end Vitamix models, so you get pro performance without paying top-tier prices.
- Perfect size for couples or singles: The 48-ounce (1.4 L) container fits nicely under most kitchen cabinets and is ideal for one or two people—no more oversized pitchers taking up space.
- Built to last: After almost five years of weekly use, the stainless-steel blades still work like new. The durable base and thick plastic jar feel solid and premium.
- Simple to use: The variable speed control and pulse switch give full control without confusing presets. You can adjust texture on the fly—great for anyone who likes a hands-on blending style.
- Easy cleanup: It’s self-cleaning—just add warm water and a drop of soap, blend for 30 seconds, rinse, and you’re done. It’s also dishwasher safe, which is a big win for busy mornings.
What Could Be Better
- It’s loud: Even at medium speed, the E310 can wake the whole house. If you live in an apartment, it’s worth blending at lower speeds or using ear protection.
- The lid is tight: It needs a good push to lock in place. If you have hand or wrist issues, this might be tricky.
- Shorter warranty than other Vitamix models: You get 5 years, while pricier models go up to 10. Still, it’s longer than most blender warranties in this price range.
Is the Vitamix E310 Good?
Yes—the Vitamix E310 is absolutely worth it if you want commercial-level blending power in a compact size. It’s ideal for everyday smoothies, soups, sauces, and even nut butters. I’ve blended everything from frozen berries to whole carrots, and it always delivers a smooth, consistent texture.
What makes it stand out is its 2 horsepower motor, stainless-steel blades, and variable speed control. These features make it as effective as larger models like the 5200, but in a smaller, easier-to-store form. For US buyers, it’s also widely available, and replacement parts are easy to find.
Vitamix E310 Overview
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Motor Power | 2 Horsepower (Professional-grade) – easily crushes ice, nuts, and frozen fruit |
| Container Size | 48 oz (1.4 L) – ideal for 1–2 people, fits under standard US kitchen cabinets |
| Blades | Hardened Stainless-Steel – designed for heavy use and smooth blending |
| Speed Control | 10 Variable Speeds + Pulse – lets you fine-tune textures |
| Noise Level | Loud at high speeds – normal for high-performance blenders |
| Cleaning | Self-cleaning + Dishwasher Safe – saves time and effort |
| Weight | Approx. 11.5 lbs – sturdy but manageable |
| Warranty | 5-Year Limited Warranty – backed by Vitamix reliability |
Recommendation
If you’re someone who makes smoothies, sauces, or soups daily and values power over presets, the Vitamix E310 is a great match. It’s perfect for small households, apartment kitchens, or anyone who wants pro blending results without spending extra on smart features.
I’d recommend it to:
- Couples or singles who make smoothies or purees regularly.
- Home cooks who prefer simple, manual controls over digital programs.
- Health-focused users who want to add more fiber, seeds, and greens to their diet.
However, if you’re sensitive to noise or need a more accessible lid design, you might consider alternatives like the Blendtec Classic 575, which includes a timer and an easier-to-open lid.
From my experience, the Vitamix E310 strikes the perfect balance between performance and practicality. It’s a blender that truly feels like an investment—one that will likely outlast your cheaper models and deliver better results for years.
To buy this product, Click Here.
Vitamix Vitamix Blender Pitcher 5200 Review
The Vitamix 5200 is a classic, powerful blender made to last. It blends fast and smooth, even with hard or frozen ingredients. I’ve used it for smoothies, soups, and nut butters, and it handles them all with ease. It feels strong, simple, and professional.
There are no digital buttons or screens, but that’s part of its charm. You get full control and reliable results every time. If you want a big, sturdy blender for home or small business use, the Vitamix 5200 is a great choice.
To buy this product, Click here.
What I Like
- Strong blades and smooth blends: The stainless-steel blades crush ice, nuts, and frozen fruit in seconds. Every smoothie turns out silky, with no chunks or lumps.
- Large 64oz pitcher: The big Vitamix 64oz pitcher is perfect for families or meal prep. You can make several servings in one go. The tall jar creates a strong blending vortex for fast, even results.
- Durable and safe design: The Tritan plastic container is BPA-free and impact-resistant. It’s clear and easy to handle. The ergonomic handle feels soft and secure in your hand.
- Easy to clean: Just add warm water and a drop of soap, then blend for 30 seconds. Rinse it, and you’re done.
- Long power cord: The 6-foot cord tucks into the base for neat storage. It’s handy for kitchens with limited outlets.
What Could Be Better
- Tall size: The pitcher might not fit under short kitchen cabinets. Measure before buying.
- No presets or timer: It’s all manual. You’ll need to watch your blend, which some might not like.
- Loud motor: It’s powerful, but it can get noisy at high speed.
Is the Vitamix 5200 Good?
Yes, it’s excellent. The Vitamix 5200 blends better and lasts longer than most blenders. It’s a top pick for people who want smooth drinks and thick, creamy soups.
I’ve made green smoothies with kale, frozen fruit, and nuts — all smooth in under a minute. I’ve even blended hot soup straight from raw veggies; the friction heat made it warm and ready to serve. That kind of power makes it feel professional.
Vitamix 5200 Overview
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Motor Power | 2.0 HP – strong enough for ice, nuts, and veggies |
| Pitcher Size | 64oz (1.89 L) – ideal for families or meal prep |
| Material | BPA-Free Tritan Plastic – tough and safe |
| Blades | Hardened Stainless-Steel Blades – smooth, even blending |
| Controls | Variable Speed Dial + High/Variable Switch – simple to use |
| Handle | Ergonomic Grip – soft and secure |
| Cleaning | Self-clean (30–45 sec) – easy and fast |
| Cord Length | 6 feet – flexible countertop use |
| Warranty | 7 years – reliable after-sale service |
Recommendation
The Vitamix 5200 is great for anyone who blends often. It’s best for:
- Families or cafés that make big batches.
- Home cooks who want power and control.
- Health lovers who blend greens, nuts, or frozen fruit.
If space or noise is a concern, you might like the smaller E310. But for size, strength, and long life, the Vitamix 5200 stands out.
It’s a simple, strong, and trustworthy blender. It makes your cooking easier and your smoothies better. Once you try it, you’ll see why it’s a favorite in U.S. kitchens.
To buy this product, Click here.
Vitamix E310 vs 5200 — Detailed Comparison
I’ve used both the Vitamix E310 and the Vitamix 5200 for months in my kitchen. Each one has its strengths. The E310 feels compact and quick, while the 5200 feels bold and powerful. Both make great smoothies and soups, but they suit different people.
Let’s compare them in detail.
Blending Power: Vitamix E310 vs 5200
| Feature | Vitamix E310 | Vitamix 5200 |
|---|---|---|
| Motor Power | 2 HP | 2 HP |
| Batch Type | Small to medium | Medium to large |
| Consistency | Smooth for single servings | Smoother for big blends |
| Speed Control | 10 variable speeds + Pulse | 10 variable speeds + High switch |
I’ve made green smoothies in both. The E310 handles small batches fast, while the 5200 keeps things consistent in large ones. When I blended frozen fruits for family-size smoothies, the 5200 pulled ingredients down better.
My Take:
If you blend single servings, go for the E310. For bigger blends, the 5200 wins.
Rating:
- Vitamix E310 – 9/10
- Vitamix 5200 – 9.5/10
Blade Quality: Vitamix E310 vs 5200
| Feature | Vitamix E310 | Vitamix 5200 |
|---|---|---|
| Blade Type | Hardened stainless steel | Hardened stainless steel |
| Blade Size | Slightly shorter | Larger and wider |
| Durability | Excellent for daily use | Built for long-term heavy blending |
| Sharpness | Great for ice, fruit, nuts | Great for ice, nuts, veggies |
Both have stainless-steel blades that stay sharp after years of use. My E310 blades still work like new even after hundreds of smoothie sessions. The 5200 blades are longer, so they reach deeper when I make soups or nut butters.
My Take:
Same quality, but 5200 blades move more volume.
Rating:
- Vitamix E310 – 9/10
- Vitamix 5200 – 9/10
Jar Material: Vitamix E310 vs 5200
| Feature | Vitamix E310 | Vitamix 5200 |
|---|---|---|
| Jar Size | 48 oz (1.4 L) | 64 oz (1.9 L) |
| Material | BPA-free Tritan plastic | BPA-free Tritan plastic |
| Design | Short and wide | Tall and narrow |
| Cabinet Fit | Fits under most cabinets | May not fit under low cabinets |
The E310 jar fits under my kitchen cabinet — that’s a big plus. It’s easier to clean and store. The 5200 jar is taller and better for large families, but it doesn’t fit easily under standard cabinets in U.S. kitchens.
My Take:
E310 wins for small kitchens. The 5200 suits families who blend more.
Rating:
- Vitamix E310 – 9.5/10
- Vitamix 5200 – 8.5/10
Motor Strength: Vitamix E310 vs 5200
| Feature | Vitamix E310 | Vitamix 5200 |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 2 HP | 2 HP |
| Cooling System | Radial fan + thermal protection | Radial fan + thermal protection |
| Performance Duration | Strong for 5–6 minutes | Handles longer blending runs |
| Heating Ability | Warms soups in ~6 minutes | Warms soups in ~5 minutes |
When I make soup, both blenders heat it through friction. The 5200 feels slightly faster, likely because of the longer blades and taller jar design. For shorter blends, they perform about the same.
My Take:
The 5200 has a small edge in heat and endurance.
Rating:
- Vitamix E310 – 9/10
- Vitamix 5200 – 9.5/10
Noise Level: Vitamix E310 vs 5200
| Feature | Vitamix E310 | Vitamix 5200 |
|---|---|---|
| Noise Range | 88–92 dB | 90–94 dB |
| Volume | Noticeable but tolerable | Slightly louder |
| Vibration | Minimal | Slightly higher |
| Comfort Level | Easier for apartment use | Louder in small spaces |
The E310 is still loud, but the 5200 feels a bit louder when blending at top speed. I often blend early mornings, and the E310 disturbs less.
My Take:
Both are noisy, but the E310 is easier on the ears.
Rating:
- Vitamix E310 – 8.5/10
- Vitamix 5200 – 8/10
Performance: Vitamix E310 vs 5200
| Feature | Vitamix E310 | Vitamix 5200 |
|---|---|---|
| Smoothies | Excellent | Excellent |
| Soups | Great for 2 servings | Great for 3–4 servings |
| Nut Butters | Smooth, takes time | Smooth and fast |
| Frozen Drinks | Excellent | Excellent |
Both perform amazingly well. The E310 is more compact and great for quick blends. The 5200 is stronger for long blending or large batches.
My Take:
Performance is close, but the 5200 wins on volume and speed.
Rating:
- Vitamix E310 – 9/10
- Vitamix 5200 – 9.5/10
Ease of Use: Vitamix E310 vs 5200
| Feature | Vitamix E310 | Vitamix 5200 |
|---|---|---|
| Controls | Simple dials and pulse button | Manual dial with high switch |
| Cleaning | Self-cleaning in 30 seconds | Self-cleaning in 45 seconds |
| Weight | 11.5 lbs | 10.5 lbs |
| Storage | Easy under cabinet | Harder to store |
The E310 feels simpler to use and clean. It’s quick and easy. The 5200 needs a bit more space but gives finer control for big recipes.
My Take:
E310 is easier day-to-day.
Rating:
- Vitamix E310 – 9.5/10
- Vitamix 5200 – 8.5/10
Value for Money: Vitamix E310 vs 5200
| Feature | Vitamix E310 | Vitamix 5200 |
|---|---|---|
| Price Range | ~$350–$400 | ~$450–$500 |
| Warranty | 5 years | 7 years |
| Build Quality | Excellent | Premium |
| Best For | Small households | Families or frequent users |
For the price, the E310 gives great performance. The 5200 costs more but offers longer coverage and higher volume.
My Take:
The E310 gives better overall value if you don’t need huge capacity.
Rating:
- Vitamix E310 – 9.5/10
- Vitamix 5200 – 9/10
Overall: Vitamix E310 vs 5200
| Blender | Pros | Cons | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vitamix E310 | Compact, smooth blending, easy to use, great value | Smaller capacity | 9.2/10 |
| Vitamix 5200 | Strong, large jar, long warranty | Tall, louder | 9.3/10 |
After months of use, I’d say both are worth it — just for different users. The Vitamix E310 is best if you live alone or with a partner and want a reliable daily blender that fits under your cabinet. The Vitamix 5200 is better if you blend large batches or want a more powerful, professional feel.
Both are true workhorses. You can’t go wrong — it just depends on how much you blend and how big your kitchen space is.
FAQs for Vitamix E310 vs 5200
Which blender is better, Vitamix E310 or 5200?
Both are great, but the Vitamix 5200 is better for large batches, while the E310 fits smaller kitchens and daily use. Choose based on your space and blending needs.
Does the Vitamix 5200 blend smoother than the E310?
Yes, the 5200 gives slightly smoother results, especially in bigger batches. The E310 still blends very well for single servings or smaller smoothies.
Is the Vitamix E310 quieter than the 5200?
A bit. The E310 is slightly quieter because of its smaller jar and compact size, while the 5200 gets louder when running at full speed.
Can both Vitamix E310 and 5200 make hot soup?
Yes. Both blenders can heat soup through friction in about 5–6 minutes. You don’t need a stove — just let the blender run until it warms up.
Which one offers better value for money?
The Vitamix E310 offers better value if you blend small portions often. The 5200 costs more but gives extra capacity and a longer warranty for frequent use.