You can never go wrong with a Vitamix blender. The machines are long lasting and powerful enough to blend tough ingredients like frozen fruit, ice cubes and carrots—quickly and with minimal effort. Enthusiasts, however, get confused when making a choice between different models. A review of Vitamix 200 vs 500 should make it easier to pick a perfect match.
If you are looking for other choices, be sure to look at our best blender guide here.
Vitamix 200 vs 500 Comparison Chart
| Vitamix 200 | Vitamix 500 | |
|---|---|---|
| Container: | 64 oz BPA free with spill-proof cover, tamper and removable plug. | 64 oz BPA free with spill-proof cover, tamper and removable plug. |
| Dimensions: | 9 x 20.2 x 8.8 in | 7.25 x 17.25 x 8.75 in |
| Controls: | Manual speed control. | Variable speed control with 3 pre-programmed settings and a pulse option. |
| Motor: | 2 peak horsepower for plenty of blending power. | 2 peak horsepower for plenty of blending power. |
| Warranty: | 7 year | 7 year |
Similarities between Vitamix 200 and 500
The blenders have a lot in common. Both come with recipe books that feature over 200 or more recipes. You’ll also get DVD with Michael Symon that comes with bonus recipes. Additionally, container dimensions are similar and both are brushed stainless steel color.
Tamper
The most distinct feature in both is a tamper, an important device found in all Vitamix blenders that serve two purposes. First, it allows for easy blending of both frozen and whole ingredients by allowing users to physically push the tamper into the blade saving a lot of time. Secondly, the device prevents formulations of pockets of air while blending. This means that you won’t have to switch the device off to manually remove the air. Only Vitamix blenders have this distinctive feature.
Warranty
Both blenders come with a warranty of seven years that covers the parts, how it performs and labor. When the blender breaks down, Vitamix will repair it in 30 days. If they can’t fix it, you will be given a new machine or a refund. The manufacturer will further cover shipping if you decide that the blender you’ve chosen doesn’t meet your expectations.
Differences between Vitamix 200 and 500
Despite the numerous similarities, there are a couple of differences between the two. A comparison of Vitamix 200 vs 500 shows that the newer versions have additional features that cause them to functions a bit differently.
Pre-program settings
Vitamix 200 has a manual speed control button that’s easy to use. If you prefer pre-programmed cycles, you can purchase Vitamix 500 which has three pre-programmed settings that provide consistent results for blending cycles of Hot Soup, Frozen Dessert and Hot Soup recipes. With pre-programmed settings, you can start the blenders and leave it processing your food as you attend to other chores. For manual speed control, you use manual settings that begin on low speed, and you have to slide your finger to increase it to the preferred pace. If you need assistance pushing the mixture into the blades, you could use the tamper. After achieving intended results, push the start/stop setting.
Pulse control
Vitamix 200 has no pulse control while Vitamix 500 has pulse control. With this feature, you will be able to produce smooth blends of thick vegetable soups or chunky salsas. The main difference between how the two models work is that when you push the pulse knob of the Vitamix 500 blender, the machine will perform at the fastest speed. It will only stop when you let go of the button. For instance, if you’d like to chop vegetables, but you don’t want to mash them, the pulse control will come in handy. You can simply start pulsing then stop when the veggies get to the consistency that you want. You can also use the pulse function when blending frozen foods to soften them. This additional feature gives you more control over the process of blending or chopping since you can decide when to stop. Timing makes a huge difference in the final result. Although the pulse isn’t a main feature in all blenders, it is a wonderful option. If you prefer the convenience of new technology and the luxury that pre-programmed settings will accord you, Vitamix 500 is a good fit for you.
Cost
Since both devices have a longer life span than the average blender—of around 10 years—they tend to cost more. However, there is a difference in pricing of the two. The 500 is slightly more expensive than the 200 and this is because Pro 500 has additional features like pre-programmed settings and pulse control. If cost is a major issue for you, you might want to purchase Vitamix Pro 200 which equally performs well when chopping—it liquefies, grinds and mixes in seconds.
Conclusion
The Vitamix model that you choose depends on what you want to get out of it. If you like the convenience of allowing food to blend as you relax, Vitamix 500 will be a good fit. The pre-set and pulse control will make your experience stress free and more enjoyable. If you are more hands on, then purchase Vitamix 200.