Food processors vs blenders: What’s the difference?

Are food processors and blenders the same? Well, the two must-have kitchen appliances are often used interchangeably in conversations but the two aren’t the same. The truth is both food processors and blenders share some functions but their similarity ends right there. Every blender and food processor is different and the primary way in which they differ is their output.

A blender is a kitchen appliance that is used to either crush or make puree. A food processor, on the other hand, can not only help you make a puree but can also be used to slice, grate, shred, and dice, among other functions. The difference between the two also extends to different accessories that come with them. So, if you are confused between the two, here’s how a food processor differs from a blender.

Food processor vs blender: What's the difference

As I mentioned earlier, the difference between a food processor and a blender usually boils down to what you can make with them. It also differs in terms of a number of blades and attachments that come with them. With that as a preset, let’s delve into the difference between a food processor and a blender.

1. Blades:

A blender has a fixed blade, which is located at the bottom of the jar and it cannot be readily switched. This single-blade design is ideal for crushing ice, liquify ingredients, and for fine pureeing. A food processor has multiple blades and/or discs that are used to make puree, chop, mix, and sometimes even knead dough. Some food processors even include a whisk accessory to whisk, whip and stir. The multi-blade design makes food processors a multi-purpose utility rather than just a blender.

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2. Attachments:

Another area where the difference between a blender and a food processor becomes clear is their attachments. A blender comes with tall jars that are designed not only to contain the ingredients but can also be carried after their use. Food processors don’t come with jars but instead come with an attachment that looks like a bowl. They are called work bowls and are designed to process whole or larger ingredients.

3. Capacity:

The typical capacity of a blender is 2 cups for a personal blender and up to 14 cups for a commercial blender. A food processor, on the other hand, has a capacity between 6 and 14 cups and can even be larger.

4. Usage:

In simple terms, a blender is an appliance that has a fixed blade and features a tall jar that makes it ideal for pouring. This design means that the blender is better suited for crushing and liquifying ingredients or making fine puree. A food processor has multiple blades and a wide work bowl and is thus preferred for slicing, shredding, and chopping applications.

Best blenders: Which one to choose

Now that you know the difference between a blender and a food processor and have made a decision that you need a kitchen appliance whose final product is something you can drink or pour then a blender is right for you. With a blender, you can make liquid recipes such as a mocktail, a smoothie, or a protein shake too. Here are the best blenders available right now.

1. Croma Personal 400 Watt 5 Jars Blender:

With a 400W motor reaching a speed of 21,500 RPM, the Croma Personal 400 Watt 5 Jars Blender is ideal for making juices, healthy smoothies, or creamy milkshakes. It comes with 5 jars and offers a two year warranty.

2. Usha NutriPress 200 Watt Cold Press Juicer:

This is an appliance designed with juicing in mind with its 200W motor. The Usha NutriPress 200 Watt Cold Press Juicer has a unique 80mm full-mouth feeding tube to insert large chunks of fruits, vegetables, nuts, leaves, milk, or grain.

3. Morphy Richards Blend Expert 400 Watt 3 Jars Blender:

If you want a blender with more speed then Morphy Richards Blend Expert offers a 400W motor that reaches a speed of 25,000 RPM. It offers 3 jars and 2 speed levels that make tasks simple.

4. Croma Personal 450 Watt 2 Jars Mixer Grinder Blender:

This personal blender from Croma is for those who want a blender for on-the-go usage. It relies on a 400W motor with speeds reaching 19,000 RPM and comes with a 300ml and a 500ml jar and is meant to simplify your juicing needs.

5. Balzano 1200 Watt 3 Jars Blender:

With a 1200W motor and 28,000 RPM speed, the Balzano 1200 Watt 3 Jars Blender is a heavy-duty kitchen appliance that is not only good for blending but can also be used for grinding, wet grinding, dry grinding, grating, mincing, and chutney grinding. This is a true multi-purpose appliance that also excels at blending.

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Regardless of which blender you choose, you are not likely to miss out on a wonderful experience of making fresh juices or puree or crushing ice at home.