I've been looking and comparing the Blendtec with VitaMix for quite some time. Narrowed in and bought Blendtec Classic 575. Loved the short container that fits well under cabinet and on shelf. First tried out smoothie and did great. But the best part of that first attempt was the fantastic ease of cleaning!!! Then, I was going to make monkey bread which requires grating frozen butter. I tried using my heavy-duty Cuisinart and it didn't go well. So, I thought I'd try the Blendtec. Oh my!! It grated the butter like nothing flat. So, I thought what about just blending the entire dough mix in here. And, fantastic!!! Before I knew it I had the entire dough mixed and done. Then again, easy cleanup. I'm so very glad I purchased this Blendtec and I continue to enjoy it.