Capable of crushing ice and being pulsed at any of five speeds, this sturdy, powerful, 500-watt blender provides ease of operation and versatility for a serious cook. It creates frozen drinks like smoothies and margaritas; chops nuts, coffee beans, vegetables, and chocolate; mixes batters and party dips; purées baby food and soups; removes lumps from gravy; and shreds cheese. Four cutting blades whirl at different levels for thorough work. KitchenAid’s “step-start” feature automatically begins a process slowly to prevent splatters and quickly increases speed to the level selected on the touchpad control panel. The blender has a 40-ounce, dishwasher-safe, glass jar with a drip-resistant pouring lip and a tight-fitting top. Removing the cap creates an opening for adding ingredients, and the cap is a 2-ounce measuring container.

The blender’s heavy metal base doesn’t skid on its rubber feet during operation and offers a cord-wrap underneath. Base and control panel wipe clean easily. The blender measures 7 inches wide, 15 inches high, and 8 inches deep and weighs 12 pounds. Its instruction booklet includes 75 recipes. –Fred Brack

Editor’s note: This is a reconditioned small appliance. Reconditioned generally means that the appliance has been returned to the manufacturer, who returns the appliance to like-new condition. Some appliances may contain cosmetic blemishes.