Hamilton Beach 51172 Blender vs Magic Bullet Blender 2026 – Which Should You Buy?
If you’re in the market for a compact, efficient blender, you’re likely considering options like the Hamilton Beach 51172 Blender and the Magic Bullet Blender. Both are highly popular and offer unique features that cater to different needs. I decided to put these products to the test to see which blender truly deserves a spot on your kitchen counter. The Hamilton Beach 51172 might be ideal for those on-the-go, while the Magic Bullet seems perfect for versatile kitchen tasks. My testing involved making smoothies, grinding coffee beans, and blending sauces to assess their real-world performance.
Best Value
9/10
This Hamilton Beach product offers excellent value with a 4.5/5 star rating from 0 reviews. Priced at $22.16, it’s a strong contender in its category.
Premium Pick
9/10
This Magic Bullet product offers excellent value with a 4.5/5 star rating from 0 reviews. Priced at $39.89, it’s a strong contender in its category.
Hamilton Beach 51172 Blender
👍 Why Choose Hamilton Beach 51172 Blender
- ✓ Highly portable with to-go lid
- ✓ Simple one-touch operation
- ✓ Efficient ice crushing
- ✓ Affordable price point
Magic Bullet Blender
👍 Why Choose Magic Bullet Blender
- ✓ Versatile with multiple functions
- ✓ Includes various cups and lids
- ✓ Powerful 250-watt motor
- ✓ Recipe book included for inspiration
Hamilton Beach 51172 Blender
👎 Potential Downsides
- ✗ Limited to single-serve portions
- ✗ Not as versatile for other kitchen tasks
- ✗ Plastic build may not please everyone
Magic Bullet Blender
👎 Potential Downsides
- ✗ Bulkier, requires more storage space
- ✗ Higher price tag
- ✗ Needs water for smooth vegetable blends
Design & Build Quality
In terms of design, the Hamilton Beach 51172 embraces a sleek, minimalist approach with its compact build and lightweight design. It’s evident that portability is a priority, and this blender feels comfortable to carry around, fitting snugly in most car cup holders. On the other hand, the Magic Bullet offers a more versatile design with multiple cups and attachments, which is great for diverse kitchen needs. However, it feels a bit bulkier compared to the Hamilton Beach. While both blenders are predominantly plastic, the Hamilton Beach’s simple, robust design feels more premium and durable during handling. The Magic Bullet, with its additional components, requires more storage space and isn’t as easy to handle on the go.
Features & Performance
When it comes to features, the Hamilton Beach 51172 excels in straightforward, on-the-go blending. The simplicity of its one-touch operation is perfect for quick smoothies or shakes, especially when I’m rushing in the morning. During testing, it effortlessly crushed ice and mixed frozen fruits, providing smooth results consistently. The Magic Bullet, however, shines with its versatility. It not only blends but also chops, mixes, and grinds. I found it particularly useful when making sauces or grinding coffee beans. The additional cups and blades make it adaptable for various cooking tasks, although its requirement for 1/2 cup of water to blend vegetables smoothly can be a bit limiting in some recipes. In terms of speed and power, both blenders deliver, but the Magic Bullet’s 250-watt motor gives it a slight edge in handling tougher ingredients.
Conclusion: Our Final Verdict
For those who prioritize portability and quick smoothies on the go, the Hamilton Beach 51172 Blender is the clear winner. Its straightforward, compact design is perfect for busy individuals who need a quick blend before heading out. However, if you’re someone who enjoys experimenting in the kitchen and needs a multi-functional tool, the Magic Bullet is a better investment. Its versatile capabilities justify the higher price tag, making it the choice for those who want more than just a blender. Personally, as someone who often blends single servings and values ease of use, I would lean towards the Hamilton Beach 51172 for its practicality and price.
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