A smoothie maker needs to have enough power to crush ice and frozen fruit. My favorite smoothie maker is a Vitamix blender. #ad It is a quality blender. The Vitamix includes metal gears that turn the blades. We have had ours for over 20 years and it is still going strong. Another excellent blender is the NINJA Blender for Shakes and Smoothies. It is quick and convenient and has easy cleanup in the dishwasher.