Are your kitchen cupboards cluttered up with too many small appliances that can only do one thing? One to grind the coffee, one to make a smoothie, another to chop up salsa ingredients… you know what I mean. When this becomes increasingly annoying, it’s time to consider a blender food processor combo. Simplify!
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What a Combination Appliance Can Do
You can get the best of both blender and food processor functionality using a single motorized base:
- Enjoy the awesome nutritional benefits of smoothies and juices
- Get help with kitchen prep for meals – chopping, slicing, grating, pureeing
- Make refreshing frozen desserts such as sorbet
- Whiz up your own nut butters
- Knead your own bread dough and cookie dough too
And if you’re still doing things by hand, you’ll save a whole lot of time and hassles by getting properly equipped with the best blender food processor combo. But how to choose? I got pretty obsessed for a couple of weeks poring over features, reviews, prices, and manufacturer Q & A. I couldn’t sleep for mulling over blade size and cup seam issues! But as a result, here’s a guide which I hope will make things easier for you.
Fresh is Best
We all understand the importance of nurturing healthy habits, which begins with what we put into our bodies. As a mom, I want my kids to be eating fresh, homemade snacks and meals, rather than packaged, processed and preserved “food-like substances.”
Unfortunately, healthy eating doesn’t come cheap. It can be tempting to resort to junk food because it’s cheaper and quicker, but studies show that these types of food increase the risk for obesity, cardiovascular disease, inflammation, and certain types of cancer.
These problems are more serious than I thought. After doing some research, I found that junk food results in more deaths than genocide, famine, and wars combined! Remember this the next time you feel lured by your favorite fast-food chain. What’s even more alarming is that the culprit isn’t necessarily so obvious. Even seemingly “nutritious” pre-packaged food found in your grocery can be chock-full of sugars, pesticides, and other nasty things that do more harm than good.
Thankfully, the use of the best blender food processor combo can make all the difference. Having this all-in-one device in your kitchen empowers you to easily make an infinite list of delicious and nutritious drinks, snacks and meals.
The only limit is your imagination; this handy appliance is a must-have for anyone who wants a healthy lifestyle that’s easy and economical. Not only will it save you money from having to buy smoothies or food outside, but it also inspires you to get creative with your ingredients. And you’ll know exactly what’s going into your body!
What’s the Difference between a Blender and a Food Processor?
Now, let’s get straight on the differences between a blender and a food processor. Then it will become clear why a combination appliance is so much more useful than just one of these.
A blender is generally used for liquifying ingredients, such as creating smoothies and juices using fruits and vegetables. I like to add yogurt or superfoods such as chia seeds, flax seeds, and nuts. You can also puree your soups to a smooth consistency. Super-smooth blending is made possible by its short, sharp blades spinning rapidly due to a high-powered motor.
On the other hand, a food processor is used to save time on tasks that are labor-intensive such as chopping vegetables, grating cheese, grinding nuts and seeds, or even kneading dough. Salsa is a cinch! Its blades are usually flatter and broader and spin more slowly, so as to chop rather than pulverize.
Can a Blender Work as a Food Processor?
If you already have a blender, you may be wondering whether you really need to have a food processor as well. Let’s talk this through so you can make the best purchasing decision for your circumstances.
The simple answer is yes. You CAN use a blender as a food processor, but you will need to make adjustments. With the one blender blade, you’ll be able to mix, chop, crush and puree, but not slice or grate. You may need to make things in smaller batches, since a food processor can generally handle larger volumes. And if your blender has a low-power motor (under 700 W), you’ll be more limited processing-wise.
Another thing you can’t do with a blender is knead dough. But you have two hands, so you can do it yourself. If you’d rather not? Go with a combo!
Can a Food Processor be used as a Blender?
Are you now wondering about the opposite scenario – whether your food processor could work as a blender?
Well, yes it can, but it will likely do a poor job. Use the sharpest cutting blade and the highest speed. You might not get a smooth texture and it will take longer. You might also need to pause every now and again to stir and make sure all the ingredients are combining properly.
Advantages of Having a Blender and Food Processor All In One
I think getting a blender food processor combo all-in-one device is one of the best investments you can make. For your health, for convenience, and for your bank account, too.
- Versatile functionality – make all kinds of fresh foods from smoothies to hummus, pesto and sorbet.
- Space-saving – one appliance instead of multiple.
- Mostly affordable – quite economical for the functionality you get.
- Convenient – easy to put to good use, saving time and effort in the kitchen.
What To Look For in a Blender Food Processor Combo
Just like with other appliances, there are several things to consider when shopping around for a blender food processor combo:
Power
Food processing uses less power than blending, since you need more horsepower to liquefy ingredients. To do both food processing and smooth blending, you’ll need a device that uses a minimum of 700 watts. The greater the power, the smoother your blending and therefore the smoother your soups and smoothies.
Capacity & Size
Let’s face it: not all of us have the kitchen of our dreams. Some of us have to make do with a tiny kitchen in a studio apartment, so we veer towards compact or smaller appliances. Size matters 😊
Then there’s capacity: countertop blender food processors usually have a capacity of 3 to 8 cups on average, so it’s a pretty good range to choose from depending on what you need your unit to do. Large batches for family-sized appetites or freezing for future use? Or do you just need it for smaller everyday tasks?
Blades and Slicing Discs
The S-shaped blade, or Sabatier blade, is a standard blade used in food processors. It can do most jobs like making hummus, nut butter, or pesto. If you keep your machine on pulse, the S-blades will chop and mix. If you leave the machine on, the blades can puree and blend.
Some models come with extra blades or discs in the box, while others you’ll need to buy separately. Even the most basic food processors typically include a slicing disc that can double as a grater, which means that you can grate cheese and slice vegetables with just one disc.
Plastic dough blades are ideal for making dough or focaccia, so if you see yourself using your machine for this purpose, it’s worth picking up. Not all units have this as an option, and if they do, it may be an extra purchase.
Attachments
The most popular extra is the smoothie-to-go cup, which makes it super easy to blend up your smoothie on the way out the door and take it with you. Some models have it and others don’t. If this is something you would like to be able to do regularly, then maybe stick it on your “must-have” list.
Other attachments, which you generally need to buy separately, include an egg whip, julienne disc, French fry disc, non-citrus juicer, and a citrus juicer.
Price
There is no need to go broke for a blender food processor that’s right for you. There are many great models in the market that are affordable and can fit within your budget.
Quickly Compare Blender Food Processors
Want to quickly compare blender food processors before we get into all the nitty-gritty? Check out this table:
| Model | Power | Blender | Processor | Attachments | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Oster Pro 1200 Best Value | 1200W 7 speeds | 6-cup glass jar | 5-cup BPA-free bowl | 24-ounce smoothie-to-go cup; chopping blade and slicing/shredding disc | 3 yrs (10 yr for the base unit metal coupling |
| Ninja Mega BL770 Best Heavy-Duty | 1500W 5 speeds | 72-oz BPA-free pitcher | 8-cup BPA-free bowl | 2 x 16-ounce Nutri-Ninja cups with lids; dough blade | 1 year |
| Cuisinart Ultra Trio Best Multipurpose | 746W 7 speeds | 56-oz Tritan plastic jar | 3-cup bowl | chopping blade; slicing & shredding disc | 3 years |
| BCP All-in-One Processor Best All-Rounder | 650W | 7.4-cup plastic jar | 5-cup bowl | grinder jar, 3 slicing blades, blade hook, dough hook, citrus cone, egg beaters, emulsifying disc | 60 days |
| Hamilton Beach Wave Crusher Best Budget | 700W 14 speeds | 40-oz glass jar | 3-cup BPA-free bowl | 20-oz BPA-free travel bottle; S-blade; slicing disc; | 1 year |
| Ninja Ultra Prep PS101 Best Compact | 700W 1 speed | 48-oz jar | 3 interchangeable blades – chop, puree, knead | ||
| Bellini Kitchen Master Special Mention | 800W motor with 1000W heating power 10 speeds | 2 liter bowl | steamer | 3 years |
Top 6 Best Food Processor Blender Combos
#1. Oster Pro 1200 – Best Value
In my view, the Oster Pro 1200 is the best value food processor and blender in one. Despite its power and versatility, it won’t break your budget. With 1200 watts of power, you can use this machine for its food processor or blender interchangeably, thanks to its robust glass pitcher, smoothie cup, and processor attachments.
The blender blade is 3.5 inches wide (50% larger than in older Oster models), and the Dual-Direction Blade Technology lets you blend forward and reverse for smoother, faster results.
If you’ve always wanted to enjoy the convenience of making a whole range of fresh foods with just one base, the Oster Pro 1200 is the way to go. It’s equipped with 7 different speeds for different types of foods, including 3 pre-programmed settings for milkshakes, smoothies, and salsas, as well as a pulsing option so you can chop and grind.
The package includes:
- 6-cup Boroclass glass jar/pitcher
- 24-ounce Blend-N-Go cup
- BPA-free 5-cup food processor bowl
- stainless steel chopping S-blade and slicing/shredding disc
- 900 watts of power for ice-crushing
I love pureeing my soups, so the glass jar is a big plus in my book. Glass will withstand the heat better and there’s less chance of plastic leaching into my soup. Long-term I think glass is more durable than plastic.
While the blending and food processing work great, there has been a recurring problem amongst consumers with the smoothie cup. Sometimes food gets stuck in the cup seam, causing mold or the cup to crack. In mid-2018 the cup was redesigned and hopefully this is not a problem anymore.
You should also know that the Blend-N-Go Smoothie Kit sold on Oster’s site is not compatible with the Oster Pro 1200. If you need a replacement cup, contact Oster’s Customer Service (800-334-0759). Despite the cup issue, I still think this unit deserves its all-rounder status, but it’s better that you’re aware of this history before you make a purchase.
All up, the Oster Pro 1200 is a versatile and decent looking machine with a brushed nickel finish. View the Quick Start Guide to see how it works – pretty simple.
I found the full Instruction Manual is full of great information on the unit, with safety tips, recipes, and food processing recommendations. Warranty details are included there – you get 3 years warranty from Sunbeam Products, Inc. covering any defects in material and workmanship. And you also get a 10-year warranty on the All Metal Drive base unit metal coupling.
| PROS | CONS | |
| – Versatile appliance | – Can be quite loud due to its power | |
| – Powerful 1200 watts | – Main pitcher lid might not be tight enough | |
| – Robust glass blender jar | – Food may get stuck in smoothie cup seam | |
| – Wide blender blade | ||
| – Smoothie cup |
Click here to see today’s price on the Oster Pro 1200
Here’s a handy little video showing how to assemble the processor attachment:
#2. Ninja Mega Kitchen System BL770 – Best Heavy Duty
The Ninja Mega Kitchen System BL770 is a powerful blender food processor that comes with lots of great features for the entire family. Domestic diva, bring it on!
This feature-rich device comes equipped with exceptional power: 1500 watts and 2 horsepower for all your food and drink-making needs. You’ll be hard-pressed to find a food processor blender with more power than this, which truly stands up to its reputation for being heavy duty.
What you get in the package:
- large 72-ounce blender pitcher
- 8-cup food processor (great for making large quantities of party food!)
- 1500 W Auto iQ base
- two 16-ounce cups with lids for smoothies on the go
- plastic dough blade
All parts are made with BPA-free plastic.
Even though this appliance is a bit on the loud side due to its powerful motor, there are a couple of little features that make it a pleasure to use. The base has suction cups on the bottom to help keep it in place, and the pitcher and processor have locking lids for safety.
Another thing that’s quite useful is that the three stacked blades of the main pitcher go about two-thirds of the way to the top, so you don’t have to keep stopping to stir the contents. These blades are so sharp, they’ll turn ice into snow and your smoothies will turn out super-smooth.
This Ninja is also pretty easy to clean by sliding out the blades (no complicated disassembly required). But be super-careful of the sharp blades! The containers, lids, blade assemblies and attachments are all top-shelf dishwasher safe.
Note that the food processor doesn’t have an opening in the lid – a drizzle hole – for adding liquids, even though the manual says it does! So if you like to emulsify (eg. make salad dressings), you may want to consider the next model up: Ninja Smart Screen Blender and Food Processor CT672V.
You’ll also want to be aware of the 1-year warranty terms. The wording is done in such a way that repairs and replacement are only done at SharkNinja’s discretion. A number of consumers have gotten caught with this and have had to pay to get replacement attachments even within the warranty period.
| PROS | CONS |
| – Powerful 1500W motor | – Can be loud |
| – Large 8-cup Processor Bowl | – No drizzle hole in Processor |
| – Versatile | – 1-year limited warranty |
| – Easy to clean | |
| – Suction cups to stabilize base | |
| – Safety locking lids |
Check out the price on the Ninja Mega Kitchen System now
If you live a busy and active lifestyle and require a tough blender food processor that can whip up large quantities of restaurant-quality frozen drinks while processing food like a pro, the Ninja Mega Kitchen System BL770 is for you.
#3. Cuisinart Velocity Ultra Trio BFP-650 Blender/Food Processor – Best Multipurpose Unit
Cuisinart has long been a trusted brand in kitchen appliances, and its PowerBlend Duet BFP-10CH blender food processor combo has been one of the most popular dual units in the market. This model has now been discontinued, but Cuisinart has two other blender/food processors available: the SmartPower Duet BFP-703 and the Velocity Ultra Trio BFP-650.
For this best-of list, I’ve chosen the Velocity Ultra Trio for its overall value. This is why:
- 1-Horsepower motor – equalling 746W (much better than the SmartPower’s 500W, which doesn’t really cut it)
- In addition to the Tritan BPA-free Blender Jar and 3-cup Processor Bowl, you also get two 16oz Travel Cup attachments, making it super-easy to take your smoothies with you (not included with the SmartPower unit)
- patented sharp stainless steel blender blade
With pre-programmed functions for smoothies and crushed ice, plus low, high and pulse, you can quickly and easily make all kinds of delicious foods. With the processor’s reversible slicing/shredding disc, meal-prep is simple.
Other conveniences:
- Slip-proof feet to prevent movement during use
- Clear 2-oz. measured pour lid
- Convenient push-in cord storage
You’ll want to be aware that some consumers have difficulties with the travel cup lids – they can get stuck and are difficult to remove, especially if you don’t have a lot of strength in your hands.
This wouldn’t be a comprehensive review, if I didn’t mention some of the recent grumbles about this product. Although Cuisinart has long been a respected brand and the majority of consumers who buy this particular blender and food processor combination are happy with it, there have also been a few complaints about the quality not being as good as it used to be, new units not lasting as long as older models, and parts giving out too soon.
Unfortunately, this has been a familiar story with many brands moving their manufacturing to cheaper shores. In light of this, you may wish to stick to the Oster Pro which has a better track record.
Take a look at the manual, which also contains some helpful recipes if you’re just getting started. The Velocity Ultra Trio comes with a 3-year limited warranty.
| PROS | CONS |
| – 3 in 1 functionality (blender, processor, smoothies-to-go) | – Small Food Processing Bowl |
| – 1 Horsepower motor / 746W | – Travel Cup Lids may be difficult to remove |
| – Tritan BPA-Free plastic | |
| – 3-year limited warranty |
If you want to easily make smoothies to take with you and you’re processing small amounts of food (up to 3 cups worth), then this blender food processor will do the trick.
Look at the current price of the Cuisinart Velocity Ultra Trio Blender Food Processor.
Watch this video see some of the cool things you can do with the Velocity Ultra Trio:
Now if you don’t need full processing power and you’re after a smaller blender food processor combo, you could also consider the Cuisinart Hurricane Juicing Blender. It’s more lightweight, compact, and affordable, and you still get the travel cups. It might just suit your needs the best.
#4. BCP All-in-One Processor – Best All-Rounder
Talk about all-in-one appliance, this Best Choice Products Processor comes with one stainless steel power base and three tops – a processor, a blender, and a grinder. Not to mention 10 different attachments, that will totally expand your versatility in the kitchen!
Here’s what you get:
- 650 Watts of power
- 5-cup Food Processor Bowl
- 7.4-cup Blender Jar
- Grinder Jar
- blade hook for chopping meat and vegetables
- dough hook for kneading dough
- slicing disc with 3 attachments for slicing, shredding and grating
- twin egg beater
- citrus cone for juicing citrus fruit
- emulsifying disc for making sauces, mayo, whipping cream
All parts are top-drawer dishwasher safe, so easy to clean. Also note: the manufacturer states that the plastic is “food-grade”, but it is uncertain whether it’s BPA-free or not.
| PROS | CONS |
| – Very Versatile | – “Food-grade” plastic |
| – 10 Attachments | – Shorter 60-day warranty |
| – Large 5-cup Processor bowl | |
| – Affordable | |
| – Safety locking system |
I love the rose gold color and the small grinder jar which means you can quickly whiz up nuts or coffee beans without dirtying the rest. It’s also got a handy measuring cup in the blender lid, and you get a decent-sized 5-cup food processor bowl, which is excellent given the reasonable price. Party-sized salsas and dips are no problem!
This blender food processor combo is fairly new to the market, but so far consumers are happy with it. You can make literally anything with this combination appliance!
See today’s price on the BCP All-in-One Processor
#5. Hamilton Beach Wave Crusher – Best Budget Option
The Hamilton Beach Wave Crusher Blender System is at the more affordable end of blender food processors, and while it doesn’t have the motor power and finesse of the high-end models, it does a decent job.
It comes with a 40 oz glass blender jar, a 3-cup food processor bowl and a 20 oz travel bottle for when you want your drink to go. Both processor and bottle are BPA-free.
This blender food processor has 14 blending functions to choose from, all powered by 700 watts. The 5-cup glass jar allows you to make small and moderate-sized quantities of drinks and sauces for yourself or for entertaining at parties. Blend and go with its mess-free spout that prevents spills when you pour.
As for food processing, you get a chopping S-blade, as well as a reversible slicing/shredding disc. Getting both blades in such an affordable unit is quite a bonus. Being able to quickly dice and slice vegetables to cheeses, nuts and spices, you can make all kinds of delicious, fresh foods.
| PROS | CONS |
| – Affordable | – Can be loud |
| – S-blade & slicing disc included | – Could result in lumpy smoothies and hummus |
| – Easy clean up | – Blending large ice cubes could be difficult |
| – BPA-free |
If you’re not overly picky about the smoothness of your drinks and sauces, it doesn’t have to cost an arm and a leg to get started with a multi-function food processor blender combo such as this Hamilton Beach.
Click here to see today’s price on the Hamilton Wave Crusher System.
#6. Ninja Ultra Prep PS101– Best Compact Choice
For those of you who prioritize a compact appliance without sacrificing functionality, the Ninja Ultra Prep PS101 is a must-have.
This blender food processor combo is 700-watt powered and equipped with a one-touch control button that completely simplifies the entire process whether you want to chop veggies or crush ice for cocktails. All you need to do is push down on the power pod for as long as needed to make it blend continuously.
You’d be surprised how powerful its one-touch pod is. When you combine that with the fact that it’s got three interchangeable blades (chop, puree, knead), the Ninja Ultra Prep PS101 is the ultimate sauce, drink, and food maker: all in one compact machine.
It weighs a mere one pound but can deliver up to 48 ounces of food and drinks. That means traveling with this blender food processor is easy too! Even making batter and dough is easy with this Ninja Ultra Prep.
| PROS | CONS |
| – Versatile | – Difficult to clean |
| – Compact and lightweight | |
| – Portable | |
| – Affordable |
Take a look at the price of the Ninja Ultra Prep PS101 now.
Got a small kitchen without much room to spare? Don’t worry, the Ninja Ultra Prep doesn’t take up much space but it still does the job effectively.
If this unit is just a bit too simple for you, then check out the next model up: the Ninja Master Prep QB1004. You get one power pod, which works interchangeably with three different BPA-free bases: 48 oz Blending Pitcher; 16 oz Chopper Bowl; and 40 oz Food Processing Bowl. Each base has its own storage lid and splashguard. Very versatile and still affordable. The only drawback for me is that it has less power – only 450W, as opposed to the Ultra Prep’s 700W.
Special Mention: Bellini Kitchen Master
I couldn’t make a Best Blender Food Processor Combo list without mentioning the Bellini Kitchen Master. It’s nothing short of impressive; this appliance allows modern kitchen masters to do everything. And I mean, everything: blending, chopping, grinding, crushing, and even cooking and making coffee.
It can do everything that a traditional blender and food processor can do. But what makes this truly special is its ability to cook food for you. Aside from cooking stews, this device can also steam and fry. Imagine setting up a 3-course meal – steamed fish, asparagus and boiled potatoes – and then going to help the kids with homework. No need to watch it constantly. Just set and return to a meal ready to eat.
The Bellini Kitchen Master is definitely one of the most intelligent gadgets in the market. With 1000 watts heating power and 800 watts motor power, plus the functionality of 8 appliances all in one, you’ve got versatility galore.
The set includes a separate 2-liter bowl for steaming, adjustable temperature controls, and 10-speed rotary control.
It looks really stylish too. There really isn’t anything else like the Bellini Kitchen Master out there.
| PROS | CONS |
| – Multipurpose & Versatile | – May be challenging to learn how to use |
| – Easy, powerful blending | – Pricey |
| – Can cook and even make coffee |
For the ultimate homemaker and cook, the Bellini Kitchen Master is an investment that will last you a lifetime. It will save you time in the kitchen while allowing you to effortlessly make delicious and nutritious food and drinks. The list of things you can make with it is endless.
Check out today’s price on the Bellini Kitchen Master.
The Bottom Line
Okay, now that you have all the best info to help you with your decision-making, it’s crunch-time! Here are some final thoughts on the best blender food processors…
If you want a robust and versatile appliance that will make a wide range of food and drinks from smoothies to sliced vegetables or kneaded dough, then choose the Oster Pro 1200 with its glass jar and stainless steel blades.
If you’d like a blender and food processor that’s easy to use and clean, and allows you to make delicious smoothies to go, then the Cuisinart Velocity Ultra Trio is for you.
If you want super smooth smoothies and soups in quantity, you need the 1500-watt motor power and sophistication of the Ninja Mega Kitchen System BL770.
If you have a small kitchen or you want to be able to travel with your food processor blender combo, I recommend the compact Ninja UltraPrep PS101. Despite its simplicity, you can still slice and knead using interchangeable blades.
If you’re after a truly multifunctional unit that comes with all the attachments you could ever need to make a whole variety of foods, go for the Best Choice Products All-in-One.
Lastly, if you’re on a budget and want to enjoy the basic benefits of a blender food processor (no fancy slicing or kneading), you might like to try the Hamilton Beach Wave Crusher.
Whichever appliance you choose, I do hope your daily life is made easier and your health is enriched!
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