This mega powered machine makes my older blender seem like a relic. It's not only more powerful but blends more finely resulting in creamier, smoother textures. It also does every task much more quickly. Breaking up ice was no challenge. We make smoothies regularly and we no longer have to partially thaw frozen fruits as they blend easily and perfectly straight from the freezer. We also made a delicious strawberry frozen dessert & will be making soup in the fall. The many settings are so easy to use and control. We will certainly be using this regularly especially when we are preparing recipes from our produce from our vegetable garden to use and freeze.