Blender and Food Processor Uses: Like any vital appliance, the main consideration for a blender or food processor is what it'll end up being used for. This is particularly important for both of these items, since they can serve very different purposes. Do you want to make smoothies and other frozen drinks? A mixer with an ice-crusher is probably the best way to go. If you're looking to make a lot of soups, a jar blender with a large capacity (to prevent sudden spill-overs) is going to work pretty well. If you're looking more for something to help with chopping food, and making dips and pestos, then a food processor with multiple settings will most likely work best.

Power, settings, and capacity are going to be the three main variations in blender and food processor models. Size-wise, it's always better to go larger, so you don't have to worry about an extra powerful surge spilling soup everywhere. A commonly overlooked feature that makes a huge difference is a spout. It sounds silly, but when you're pouring a pesto you've labored over into a dish, you'll be glad you have it.

Material is important too. Glass and stainless steel blenders and food processors tend to clean and wear the best, but they'll also be the most expensive.

Ready to start blending and pureeing? Find blenders and food processors in several different styles and sizes here, along with information on where to buy them.