I hadn't heard of Vitamix before this year. i had been making "smoothies" in  my old ninja blender.  It made what i would call convenience store type drinks you had to drink with a very wide straw!  I was looking for something better.  While searching Google,  Youtube,  and family and friends, I discovered VITAMIX.  I purchased this particular model because i make large batches to drink throughout the day.  This baby comes with a 64oz container and blends everything.  I've dropped in whole lemons, cut cucumbers in fours and popped them in,  and whole ginger root.  This thing blends everything to a silky smooth consistency.  I will say that it is a hassle sometimes to get every last drop out, but I'm cheap. This is the best purchase I have ever made.  If you want an ICEE type consistency go with the Ninja.  If you want a real smoothie get a VITAMIX.  Worth the money!