Blenders come in two different types: counter-top and hand-held.

Counter-top models are perfect for making smoothies, milkshakes, and any ice based drinks such as frozen margarita’s and frozen mudslides.

Some blenders come with with glass jars, some with plastic and some manufacturers have even started making stainless steel jars.

The stainless steel blenders are very sturdy and dependable the only inconvenience is that you can’t see how well the drink is mixing. Blenders made with plastic are less expensive but they have a tendency to absorb the color and odor of the items you are blending. Glass based blenders are a really good buy, you can see the mixture as it is blending to assure proper texture although they may chip or break if miss-handled.

Drink mixers and blenders are used for many different uses such as blending drinks, smoothing out tomato sauce and soups.

Some even have attachments available to mix and beat salad dressing and marinade’s. Also, you can mix in dry ingredients with wet ingredients.

Choosing the right type of blender, drink mixer or smoothie maker depends on how often or how little you are going to use it.

If you intend to use them frequently you might consider buying a higher priced version for the quality of the machine and the speeds it offers, plus the higher wattages offered.

If you intend to use your blender, smoothie maker or drink mixer only once in a while you might consider going with a cheaper model so you may save money.

A good blender is a kitchen necessity, for making smoothies and shakes among other things. Even just crushing up some ice for that tall iced coffee.

If you want something more compact, try a hand blender rather than a stand blender. Most hand blenders are short on power.

Making your own smoothies in the comfort of your home will give you the opportunity to prepare your own favorite flavors and develop your creativity as well. You'll save time and money by having your own personal Dairy Queen.

Ideal blenders for kitchen use can have 350–525 watts of power and blades should be capable of crushing ice smoothly with no uneven chunks floating around. A hole in the lid will help you add water as you perfect the texture of your smoothies.