Best immersion blenders for 2026
Updated June 2026Independently researchedNo paid placement.
The Cuisinart CSB-179 Smart Stick Hand Blender is the best immersion blender for most people, balancing power, versatility, and ease of use.
The KitchenAid KHB2561OB is a close runner-up for those who prefer a classic design, while the Braun MQ777 offers premium performance for serious cooks, and the Hamilton Beach 99979 is a solid budget choice.
Immersion blenders are a game-changer for anyone who makes soups, sauces, smoothies, or baby food, they let you blend directly in the pot or cup, saving time and cleanup. But not all are created equal: cheap models can be weak, messy, or awkward to hold. To choose the right one, focus on motor power and speed control (variable speeds give you more finesse), the shape of the bell (a wide, angled one reduces suction and splatter), and the blade design, a four-pronged blade tends to blend more evenly. Attachments like a whisk or chopper add versatility, and a comfortable, non-slip grip matters if you blend often. Cleaning should be easy: most have detachable shafts that rinse clean or are dishwasher-safe.
Cuisinart CSB-179 Smart Stick Hand Blender
the do-it-all default
4.6out of 5A well-rounded immersion blender that blends smoothly, handles thick mixtures without bogging down, and comes with a whisk and chopper attachment. Its variable-speed trigger lets you fine-tune control, and the bell shape minimizes splashing. The only downsides are a somewhat bulky motor head and average cord length.
Price range: $$
Check price on Amazon →KitchenAid KHB2561OB Hand Blender
the ergonomic runner-up
4.5out of 5The KitchenAid has a comfortable grip and delivers consistent blending performance with a slightly wider bell that reduces suction. It comes with a whisk and a blending jar, making it a solid package. However, the motor isn’t quite as powerful as the Cuisinart’s for heavy-duty blending, and the chopper attachment is sold separately.
Price range: $$
Check price on Amazon →Braun MQ777 Multiquick 5 Hand Blender
the premium powerhouse
4.7out of 5Braun’s top model features a smart-speed dial that automatically adjusts power based on pressure, making it exceptionally smooth and easy to control. It includes a whisk, chopper, and a potato masher attachment. The motor hums through tough jobs, but the plastic shaft connector may feel less premium than the all-metal build of some rivals.
Price range: $$$
Check price on Amazon →| Award | Model | Our score | Price | Best for | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best overall | Cuisinart CSB-179 Smart Stick Hand Blender | 4.6 / 5 | $$ | Anyone wanting a reliable, all-purpose immersion blender that’s great for everyday soups, | Check price → |
| Runner-up | KitchenAid KHB2561OB Hand Blender | 4.5 / 5 | $$ | Cookers who prioritize comfort and low noise for regular blending, especially soups and sm | Check price → |
| Best value | Braun MQ777 Multiquick 5 Hand Blender | 4.7 / 5 | $$$ | Serious home cooks and those who blend frequently and want the smoothest, most effortless | Check price → |
| Best budget | Hamilton Beach 99979 Hand Blender | 4.2 / 5 | $ | Budget-conscious shoppers who need a basic immersion blender for light, occasional tasks l | Check price → |
| Best compact | Breville BHB850B Control Grip Immersion Blender | 4.4 / 5 | $$$ | Anyone with limited storage space or arthritis/hand fatigue who wants a comfortable, compa | Check price → |
The picks in detail
1. Cuisinart CSB-179 Smart Stick Hand Blender: the do-it-all default
Best overallA well-rounded immersion blender that blends smoothly, handles thick mixtures without bogging down, and comes with a whisk and chopper attachment. Its variable-speed trigger lets you fine-tune control, and the bell shape minimizes splashing. The only downsides are a somewhat bulky motor head and average cord length.
Pros
- Powerful motor blends even frozen fruit and thick soups effortlessly
- Variable-speed trigger gives precise control
- Includes useful attachments (whisk and chopper bowl)
- Easy to clean with detachable shaft and dishwasher-safe parts
Cons
- Motor head is on the larger side, can feel heavy during long use
- Cord is a bit short for large kitchens
- Chopper attachment is small for big batches
Who it’s for
Anyone wanting a reliable, all-purpose immersion blender that’s great for everyday soups, sauces, smoothies, and occasional chopping tasks.Who should skip it
You have very limited counter storage or need the most compact model available.2. KitchenAid KHB2561OB Hand Blender: the ergonomic runner-up
Runner-upThe KitchenAid has a comfortable grip and delivers consistent blending performance with a slightly wider bell that reduces suction. It comes with a whisk and a blending jar, making it a solid package. However, the motor isn’t quite as powerful as the Cuisinart’s for heavy-duty blending, and the chopper attachment is sold separately.
Pros
- Soft-grip handle and balanced design are comfortable to hold
- Wide bell minimizes splatter and suction to the pot bottom
- Includes a blending jar and whisk attachment
- Quiet compared to many competitors
Cons
- Motor can struggle with very thick mixtures or frozen ingredients
- Chopper attachment not included; optional purchase required
- Power cord is not very long
Who it’s for
Cookers who prioritize comfort and low noise for regular blending, especially soups and smoothies.Who should skip it
You often blend tough ingredients like frozen fruit or hard vegetables, where a stronger motor is needed.3. Braun MQ777 Multiquick 5 Hand Blender: the premium powerhouse
Best valueBraun’s top model features a smart-speed dial that automatically adjusts power based on pressure, making it exceptionally smooth and easy to control. It includes a whisk, chopper, and a potato masher attachment. The motor hums through tough jobs, but the plastic shaft connector may feel less premium than the all-metal build of some rivals.
Pros
- Smart-speed technology adapts power for consistent results
- Excellent, nearly silent blending with little splatter
- Comes with versatile attachments: whisk, chopper, and masher
- Very comfortable, non-slip grip
Cons
- Higher price tag than most competitors
- Shaft is plastic rather than metal, durable but not as premium-feeling
- Attachments can be fiddly to snap on and off
Who it’s for
Serious home cooks and those who blend frequently and want the smoothest, most effortless performance with minimal noise.Who should skip it
You’re on a tight budget or prefer an all-metal shaft for durability and longevity.4. Hamilton Beach 99979 Hand Blender: the budget champ
Best budgetThe Hamilton Beach delivers decent blending power for the price and has a straightforward fixed-speed switch. It’s lightweight and easy to store, but it can struggle with very thick mixtures and lacks variable speed. The included jar is handy, but the whisk is not included.
Pros
- Very affordable, great value for occasional use
- Lightweight and compact, easy to store
- Includes a blending jar and a hanging hook for storage
- Simple controls, just one button to press
Cons
- Single-speed operation offers no control over blending speed
- Less powerful motor; bogs down with frozen fruit or heavy soups
- No whisk or chopper attachment included
- Shaft is plastic and feels less sturdy
Who it’s for
Budget-conscious shoppers who need a basic immersion blender for light, occasional tasks like smoothies or thinning sauces.Who should skip it
You blend thick or frozen ingredients regularly, or you want variable speed control.5. Breville BHB850B Control Grip Immersion Blender: the compact marvel
Best compactBreville’s Control Grip is designed with a unique pistol-grip handle that makes it extremely comfortable and reduces fatigue. It’s short and light, yet still powerful enough for most blending jobs. Downsides include a smaller bell diameter (slower blending) and a cord that’s surprisingly short.
Pros
- Pistol-grip handle is the most comfortable for extended use
- Compact size fits easily in a drawer or small cabinet
- Strong motor for its size, handles most tasks well
- Easy to clean with a removable, dishwasher-safe shaft
Cons
- Smaller bell area means it takes longer to blend large batches
- Very short power cord, need to be near an outlet
- No included whisk or chopper attachments
Who it’s for
Anyone with limited storage space or arthritis/hand fatigue who wants a comfortable, compact immersion blender for everyday use.Who should skip it
You frequently blend large pots of soup or need a full attachment set included.Best for specific needs
Best for silky soups
If your primary use is turning chunky vegetable soup into a velvety puree, reach for the Braun MQ777 Multiquick 5. Its smart-speed technology automatically adjusts power as you apply pressure, so you can pulse or hold steady without over-blending. Owners consistently report the smoothest results with minimal splatter. It’s a premium pick, but for soup lovers, the difference is noticeable. Our pick: Braun MQ777 Multiquick 5 Hand Blender.
Best for small kitchens
When counter and drawer space is at a premium, the Breville BHB850B Control Grip Immersion Blender is a perfect fit. Its compact size (about two-thirds the length of standard models) and light weight make it easy to store in a drawer or on a narrow shelf. Despite its small footprint, it delivers enough power for daily blending, and the unique grip design keeps it comfortable even in tight spaces. Our pick: Breville BHB850B Control Grip Immersion Blender.
Best for budget shoppers
The Hamilton Beach 99979 Hand Blender proves you don’t need to spend a lot to get reliable results. It’s simple: one speed, one button, and a lightweight build. While it won’t plow through frozen fruit, it blends smoothies, light soups, and sauces just fine. It’s the ideal choice if you blend occasionally and want to keep costs under control. Our pick: Hamilton Beach 99979 Hand Blender.
Our verdict
For most households, the Cuisinart CSB-179 Smart Stick is the perfect all-rounder, powerful, versatile, and well-equipped. If you blend very frequently or want the smoothest possible results, the Braun MQ777 is worth the splurge. Prefer something compact or ergonomic? Go with the Breville. And if budget is your primary concern, the Hamilton Beach will handle the basics without complaint. No matter which you choose, an immersion blender will save you time and cleanup, just match it to your cooking style.