The Smeg Professional Blender showcases a futuristic design, making it one of the most elegant and high-end blenders available. Its thorough performance paired with a vacuum pump helps maintain blend freshness, although it comes with a hefty price tag.
Pros
- +
Sleek, user-friendly LCD interface
- +
Vacuum pump for longer-lasting freshness
- +
Functional for both right and left-handed users
- +
Highly effective across all blending tasks
- +
Integrated timer
Cons
- -
High price point
- -
Bulky size
Our expert reviewers rigorously test and compare the latest kitchen appliances, ensuring you find the right fit for your needs.
Having had an early glimpse of the Smeg blender, I was eager to explore its features. The incorporation of vacuum technology is a brilliant addition, addressing the common issue of rapid spoilage in homemade smoothies and dips.
This appliance stands out as Smeg's most advanced blender, rivaling top models in performance. It's visually stunning, a pleasure to operate, and excels at making smoothies, dips, and crushing ice.
Once I got my hands on it, I couldn't wait to start blending. Despite its high cost, I find it to be a worthy addition for bustling kitchens. However, it may not be suitable for everyone. Here's what you should know.
Specifications
| Size | 8 7/8 x 6 5/8 x 16 9/16 inches |
| Weight | 19 lbs |
| Jug capacity | 51 oz |
| Materials | Tritan™ Renew and aluminum |
| Speed settings | 9 |
| Programs | 5 (smoothie, green smoothie, frozen dessert, auto-clean) |
| Power cord length | 39 inches |
Unboxing Experience
Smeg has made commendable strides in sustainability, using a large cardboard box with minimal plastic packaging for protection. The presentation is impressive, with a brushed stainless steel base that exudes premium quality without being overwhelming.
The buttons feature simple icons, and the large LCD dial is intuitive, allowing users to time blends and adjust speeds with ease. Included are cleaning tools, a vacuum sealant, and a sturdy yet lightweight 51 oz glass pitcher, marked for both right and left-handed users.
Who is it For?
Due to its substantial size, the Smeg blender is best suited for larger kitchens. While it's visually appealing, it demands ample counter space. However, it can also benefit individual users who like to batch blend, as the vacuum seal extends the freshness of prepared smoothies.
User Experience
Smeg's blend of design and functionality is commendable. The straightforward icons mean you won't need to rely heavily on the manual. After rinsing the pitcher, I found that securing it to the base required some initial effort, though it became smoother with use.
Notably, the lid's stopper doubles as a measuring tool for liquids added to blends, enhancing the user experience.
Test 1: Smoothies
Testing the blender with frozen berries, banana, spinach, and almond milk produced impressive results. Selecting the smoothie function activates a timer, and though it's relatively noisy (averaging 82 dBA), it effectively blends ingredients to perfection.
I was initially concerned when the power surged at the end, but adding more almond milk resolved it quickly. The final smoothie was flawless, free from seeds or ice chunks. This was the best texture I've achieved with any blender.
Adding Free Soul protein powder yielded equally impressive results, as the Smeg blended it seamlessly without any lumps.
Test 2: Dips
Following the smoothie triumph, I was confident in testing hummus next. Combining chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, salt, and cumin, I found that the manual mode allowed me to blend for the perfect amount of time. In just twenty seconds, I achieved a wonderfully smooth dip.
Despite my shorter stature, I managed to gauge the texture from the side. After a brief spatula assist for the chunks clinging to the sides, I blended for another five seconds, resulting in a flawless hummus.
Testing guacamole followed a similar approach, and the Smeg handled onion and tomato beautifully, producing a creamy dip without any lumps. Its performance in both dips and smoothies was truly remarkable.
Test 3: Ice Crushing
Some larger ice cubes remain intact.
Utilizing the designated ice function, I crushed standard bullet ice cubes within fifty seconds, generating a satisfying batch (85 dBA noise level). I did challenge the blender with larger ice cubes, which it struggled with but still managed to reduce their size significantly.
Test 4: Unique Features
The vacuum pump is a standout feature, and I was eager to see its effectiveness. After inserting four AA batteries, I found the process straightforward and not excessively loud (80 dBA).
To use, simply fill the pitcher, place the pump on the lid, and press a button to activate. Once pressure is reached, the pump stops, and you can blend as usual. After blending, I found the smoothie retained its vibrant color for a few days, indicating the vacuum pump did its job.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Despite blending various ingredients, cleanup was surprisingly easy. A quick cycle through the cleaning function left it spotless. The matte stainless steel base is low maintenance, effectively hiding splatters.
However, the Smeg's large size requires considerable counter space and may not fit in standard cupboards. It's best showcased as a statement piece on your countertop.
Online Ratings
As one of the first to review this model, customer feedback is still forthcoming. I'll update with insights as they become available.
During the launch, the blender garnered attention for its modern design and vacuum technology, which could appeal to batch blenders. Initial skepticism around the vacuum feature has been dispelled through my testing, confirming its effectiveness.
Comparison with Other Models
In comparison to my Ninja Foodi Heat-iQ Blender, which is significantly cheaper, the Smeg excels in aesthetics. While both perform well in blending tasks, the Ninja offers more presets, including options for heating and additional recipes.
While the Smeg may seem basic in some areas for its price, its minimalist controls and unique vacuum feature set it apart. It's also fully washable, unlike the more complicated Ninja, and accommodates both right and left-handed users.
The Smeg offers many beneficial features, but whether they justify the price is a personal choice. Other blenders with vacuum technology tend to be commercial-grade or lack aesthetic appeal.
Should You Buy It?
If style and batch-blending are priorities for you, the Smeg is a worthy investment. Although it comes with a steep price, its innovative features and elegant design make it a solid choice.
Personally, I appreciate the heating capability of my Ninja and would find it hard to switch, but the Smeg remains an attractive option.
Testing Methodology
Our team rigorously assesses kitchen appliances, ensuring they earn each bit of praise they receive. We research and analyze the latest blenders, bringing them into our test kitchen for a series of evaluations.
Initial tests involve creating a smoothie with frozen fruits, spinach, and protein powder to evaluate blending efficiency. Following this, we assess dips, typically hummus and guacamole, to determine how well the blender handles various textures.
Finally, we conduct an ice-crushing test to ensure consistency and noise management. Special features are also evaluated, such as the Smeg's vacuum pump designed for preserving freshness.
We also consider cleaning, storage, and maintenance to give a comprehensive overview of each blender. Our goal is to ensure you have all the information necessary to make an informed decision.
