Wow, the power behind this blender is terrific, but the technology is what makes it exceptional. The wave shape of the bottom helps bring the liquids up to the blade rather than fall below and not get blended. The shape of the blade seems to make the biggest difference on the way food and ice are processed. It actually cuts thru it rather than mashing it. The thicker blades will last much longer and the winglets make the motion more efficient, giving many more years of use.