And sales of blenders have been soaring ever since Americans fell in love with these fruity concoctions. Consumers Reports just tested 22 blenders, including ones from Hamilton Beach, Oster and Krups. Testers whipped up frozen strawberries and juice to see which blenders produce the smoothest, least chunky smoothies. Another test - grating parmesan cheese. Better blenders give you a nice even mixture.
Many blenders claim they can crush ice without adding a liquid - a tough task.
It proved too tough for the Hamilton Beach Power Elite. There were lots of uneven chunks left behind. One blender's blade even broke off. Tests showed spending a lot doesn't guarantee a good blender. You can't remove the blade - and you can't put it in the dishwasher, either.