I did quite a bit of research before purchasing this blender.  I bought a ninja and the 5 speed diamond blender and did a side by side test.  The kitchenaid diamond blender beat it hands down.  I returned them both and purchased this one because it did more than the diamond blender.  I love this blender! I've never had an iced drink so smooth! It's easy to use and the best blender I've ever had.