I have never used a hand blender before, but wanted to have something smaller and easier to use than my big blender for small things, like a small milkshake.  I didn't know what to expect, but I am glad I have this Braun MultiQuick 5 Vario Hand Blender!!!  Quick and easy to use!  Many speeds, so started out low and worked my way up.  I'm sure the more I use it, the better I'll become and it'll be an even faster process.  I was concerned with splattering all over....I was wrong.  No excess food all over.  Easy clean up, too, by putting the blending tool in the dishwasher.