Best Blender for Ice Crushing & Frozen Fruit Smoothies

Written By James Foust

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What do margaritas, pinocoladas, daiquiris, frappuccinos, moscow mules, snowcones, and slushies all have in common? Obviously, they are all amazing and delicious. But here’s the catch: crushed ice! Ice is the key ingredient to many truly amazing drinks. Even though ice has no taste, it creates a different feel through texture and temperature. These are all crucial elements for a frozen drink and you’ll need the best blender for ice uses whether cocktail, snow cone, or smoothie.

Most people go to bars, restaurants, coffee shops, smoothie shops, and snow cone places for their frozen ice drinks and needs. But there’s a better way, which is why you are here and not at a shop.

Best Blender for Ice Crushing, Frozen Fruit, Ice Cream, Ice Drinks, and Smoothies

With the right blender, you can make all of those frozen ice cocktails, frappuccinos, and snowcones right in your own kitchen! You’ll not only be able to make amazing drinks, but also save of money in the long run.

But not every blender is equal when it comes crushing ice or frozen fruit for smoothies and drinks. Whether you want to crush ice for enjoyable cocktail drinks or fun snow cones, there are key features to consider when looking for the best blender for ice crushing.

Furthermore, even if you want to simply blend frozen fruit for a refreshing smoothie finding the best blender for frozen smoothies and ice crushing is somewhat tricky and confusing.

Top Blenders for Blending Ice and Frozen Fruit

We explore, rate, and review the best blenders for ice and frozen fruit uses whether it is for cocktail drinks, smoothies, ice-cream, or snow cones.

Summary of best blenders for ice, frozen fruit, or smoothies:

CategoryBlender Name
ValueBlendtec Total Classic
OverallVitamix Professional Series or Vitamix 750 Series
Budget FriendlyNinja Professional Countertop
CheapestOster 1200 Pro
Best Blender for Ice, Frozen Fruit, Ice Drinks, Ice Cream, and Smoothies

These blenders below are the only ones that past our performance guidelines for making amazing ice drinks or for crushing ice. Our ratings are based on a mix of weighing features like performance, reviews, ratings, warranty, price, and talking with experts.

#1 Blendtec Total Classic – Ice Crushing and Smoothie Making Machine

Blendtec Total Classic Ice Crushing Machine

KEY FEATURES

  • Rating: 9.8 out of 10
  • Power: 2.1 horsepower & 1,560 watts
  • Blade: Stainless-steel forged blade – 80% thicker
  • Container: Molded Plastic
  • Capacity: 75 ounces
  • Warranty: 8 years
  • Price: $300 – $350
Check Latest Price >>>

There is no question that the Blendtec Total Classic is one of the best blenders for ice, crushing ice, and blending frozen fruit. Heck, this blender is even best for ice cream making. Its made by Blendtec, a powerhouse name brand when it comes to blenders. This unit offers some of the best crush ice and all around blending features.

Power for Crushing Ice & Ease of Use

Whether you are making a cocktail drink or snow cone, the Blendtec makes easy work of ice with its 2.1 horsepower (3hp at peak performance) and 1,560 watts. This powerful motor combined with Blendtec’s blade will give you ice drinks comparable to restaurants and bars.

Another key feature that makes this blender best for ice is Blendtec’s patented blades. These blades are stainless-steel forged blade, with wings, for amazingly smooth for turning ice into snow. Furthermore, the blades are 80% thicker and 10x stronger than other blender blades. What makes Blendtec’s blades different is the blade is not sharp but rather dull. This means the blades won’t wear out or require sharpening (replacement) like most other blenders.

Blendtec is easy to use and clean. It comes with 1-touch buttons, pre-programmed cycles, pulse function, and manual speed control. You’ll be able to do hot or cold. Furthermore, cleaning is simple: just add a little soap and water, and blend for 1 minute.

The jar is plastic, lightweight, easy to put ingredients, and pour out contents. There are built-in measurement marks to easily add ingredients without additional measuring cups.

Not only is the price incredible when you consider its performance, but its 8 year warranty will give you peace of mind. Blendtec is very customer oriented and you’ll have very few issues.

Reviews and What Customers Are Saying:

Clearly, customers love this blender for ice cream, crushing ice, frozen fruit, smoothies, and even more difficult blends like butter. Reviews range from 4.3 to 4.8 depending on the site.

Here is a summary of many reviews that we went through and talking with experts.

Turn ice into snow and wow your friends with incredible margaritas. When fruit is at peak ripeness, make it into creamy ice cream and you can savor it then, or save it for another time.

Also, a balanced perspective on some buyers remorse. Many customers wish they spent the extra $100 for a Vitamix (see below for Vitamix review). The only reason Blendtec ranked #1 was due to its lower price; however, if price is no issue go for the Vitamix.

Final thought- if you use your blender for mostly frozen drinks or smoothies with frozen fruit, pay the extra $100 for a Vitamix. 

Overall, you won’t find a better blender for ice, frozen fruit, or making your favorite cocktail drinks. It has amazing power and performance for the price. Majority of customers highly recommend this blender.

What We Like

  • Easily crushes ice and frozen fruit 
  • Amazing warranty and built/made in the USA
  • Sleek design and easy to use with its cycle buttons

What We Don’t Like

  • Users have complained about the blender noise: it’s loud
  • A bit more expensive but not the most
  • Need to run smoothie through two cycles

#2 Vitamix Blender Professional – Best For Ice or Frozen Fruit Smoothies Lovers

Vitamix Blender Professional - Best For Ice or Frozen Fruit Smoothies Lovers

KEY FEATURES

  • Rating: 9.5 out of 10
  • Power: 2.0 horsepower & 1,380 watts
  • Blade: Aircraft-grade stainless steel blades
  • Container: Plastic Jar
  • Capacity: 64 ounces
  • Warranty: 7 years
  • Price: $400 – $450
Check Latest Price >>>

The Vitamix Professional Blender is the best all around blender. The only reason it is not ranked #1 for best ice blender is due to its higher price. If price is not a concern, then buy this blender or the Vitamix 750 Series, you won’t regret it. Moreover, this blender will never fail you with ice or frozen fruit. It will make a frozen cocktail like you have never tried at home.

Power for Blending Ice & Frozen Fruit

Vitamix is known for its superior quality and performance, and this blender is no exception. Its 2.2 peak horsepower combined with unique patented blades blends ice cubes into snow powder and frozen fruit into a true smoothie without out seeds or clumps. Moreover, this blender make easy work of your favorite frozen cocktail drink. You or your friends will never have a drink quite like it.

Another key feature for any blender is the quality of its blade. The blade is what actually rotates to crush and blender ice, frozen fruit, or other ingredients. These blades are laser-cut and designed to deliver the same quality results. Furthermore, the blades are aircraft-grade stainless steel and resistant to dulling or bending. Lastly, the blades rotate fast enough to create friction heat for soups.

Ease of Use and Controls

Vitamix Professional Blender is easy to use with its 10-speed dial that allows you to have complete control while you’re blending. You can adjust the speed at any time to create a variety of textures, or blend on High for maximum speed & efficiency. It also has simple on and off switch. No complex, fancy touch screens.

In addition, cleaning is simple. With a drop of dish soap and warm water, the Vitamix machine cleans itself in 30 to 60 seconds.

Vitamix is made in the USA and has an amazing customer support team. The company is customer-oriented and stands behind all of its blenders with a 7 year warranty. You won’t have to worry about blades or motor going out.

Reviews and What Customers Are Saying

There are plenty of great reviews on this Vitamix. I doesn’t get much better than a 4.7 out of stars with over 2,000 reviews. In fact, over 91% of customers rate this blender between 4-5 stars. Most lower reviews are due to limited parts outside of the USA. One had a faulty unit which the company made the owner whole.

Here is what customers say about this Vitamix’s ability to handle ice and frozen fruit:

As far as it’s functionality, it has an incredibly powerful motor that crushes ice instantly. It has proven to be a very worthwhile investment, and I highly recommend it to anyone who wants a high-powered blender that isn’t going to burn out after a dozen or so times of making frozen drinks with ice. Definitely a great purchase!!

If Chuck Norris was reincarnated as a blender…this would be it. It turns ice into snow and can liquify diamonds. I am thrilled to finally own one and expectations have been exceeded.

Expensive, but worth it. Crushed ice with zero effort. Thickest power cord I’ve seen on any product – has to be a powerful motor.

Overall, this is one impressive blender with a history of amazing performance and reviews and from a name brand with 7 year warranty. This is the blender for you whether it is ice, frozen fruit, snow cones, ice cream, or soup.

What We Like

  • Easily crushes ice, frozen fruit, and making ice cream 
  • Very durable, strong, and built to last
  • The consistency that this blender blends down to is amazing
  • Great support and warranty

What We Don’t Like

  • No automated settings like chop, puree, etc. just numbers on the dial
  • On the expensive side but not the most costly
  • Very tall if you have lower hanging cabinets (you can purchase a smaller jar or get the 750 series – see below)

#3 Ninja Professional Countertop Blender for Ice Crushing & Frozen Blends

Total Crushing Pitcher and quantity 2 16oz Cups for Frozen Drinks and Smoothies

KEY FEATURES

  • Rating: 9.4 out of 10
  • Power: 1.5 horsepower & 1,100 watts
  • Blade: Total crushing blades, detachable
  • Container: Plastic
  • Capacity: 72oz pitcher & 16oz (x2) travel smoothie containers
  • Warranty: 1 year
  • Price: $100 – $125
Check Latest Price >>>

This blender holds true to its name and is a ninja at blending ice and frozen food. The price is relatively affordable, performance is great, and the brand is well-known. However, you will need to adjust your expectations from the Blendtec or Vitamix blenders which are in a completely different class in terms of ice, frozen fruit, and consistency.

Power & Blades Available for Ice & Frozen Fruit Blends

The Ninja Professional crushes ice and frozen food with its 1.5 horsepower motor and 1,100 watts. Moreover, you won’t face many issues chopping up ice, ice cream, or sherbet. The ninja will make it easy to crush ice and blend tough ingredients.

Furthermore, the blades are known as total crushing blades whether it be for ice or frozen fruit. Its 6-blade assembly allows you to turn ice to snow in seconds.

Ease of Use, Controls, & Accessories

The Ninja is pretty use to understand and operate. It has 3 speeds, pulse, and single serve functions. In addition, it has a large capacity plastic container with an easy pour spout so you don’t have to remove the entire lid.

Another benefit is the two 16oz single serve smoothie containers. Simply put it on the blender, and blend your favorite frozen fruits directly into the cup. Last just twist on a lid to enjoy delicious smoothies on-the-go.

Reviews and What Customers Are Saying

The Ninja Professional Blender is the #2 countertop blender on Amazon. It has over 7,180 reviews and 4.6 out of 5 stars. A lot of reviews say the highly recommend this blender and it is a great everyday blender for ice and frozen fruit.

Don’t take our word for it, here is what customers are saying about the Ninja blender for ice, frozen fruit, and smoothies:

 It crush ice to slush instantly and blends everything so fast love it. I love that it came with two single serve cups

The thing that really sold me on this blender was simply the fact that it could handle ice like it’s nothing at all (it can quite literally turn ice into snow in a matter of seconds) and even though I wanted a Vitamix, I just couldn’t justify spending $400+ if this blender could do what we wanted it to do.

Overall, this is one Ninja of a blender when it comes turning ice into snow in a few seconds. It is the best blender for ice crushing at this price-point.

What We Like

  • Easily crushes ice into snow and power 
  • Single-serve cups are easy to swap and clean
  • The removable blade is genius for cleaning
  • Locking top is good so you can pour heavy stuff without fear of the top coming off

What We Don’t Like

  • Very loud…no joke. Get some ear muffs
  • Suction cups on the bottom are annoying
  • Single-serve containers don’t blend continuously just “pulses”
  • Very tall so it’s hard to fit under our kitchen cabinets

#4 Vitamix Professional Series 750 – Best Ice & Frozen Fruit Smoothie Blender

Vitamix Professional 750 Best Ice Blender for Crushing and Frozen Fruit

KEY FEATURES

  • Rating: 9.3 out of 10 (10 if price isn’t a factor)
  • Power: 2.2 horsepower & 1,656 watts
  • Blade: Aircraft-grade stainless steel blades
  • Container: Plastic Jar
  • Capacity: 64 ounces
  • Warranty: 7 years
  • Price: $550 – $600
Check Latest Price >>>

Once again, the Vitamix Professional 750 series is one of the most popular Vitamix blenders. This is the best blender for ice drinks & frozen treat needs including ice cream, chopping ice, crushing ice, and blending frozen fruit for smoothies without seeds or clumps. Vitamix is a powerhouse brand when it comes to blenders and its performance is unmatched.

In fact, the only reason the blender rating is not a 10 is due to its high price point. This unit ranked the highest in every category out of all blenders best for ice uses cases except price. These categories include power, reviews, ratings, brand, warranty, and distribution of ratings. I use the blender multiple times a day and it surpasses all expectations.

Power Packed & Unique Blades: Turns Ice into Snow

Vitamix Professional 750’s power is no joke with its 2.2 horsepower motor and 1,656 watts. This exceeds any blender in terms of power and watts. Its high performance motor is excellent at pulverizing everything, from ice to frozen fruit and down to the blueberry skins. You will not find a blender superior to this one when it comes to crushing ice.

As with all Vitamix blenders, the blade quality is amazing. These blades are laser-cut and designed to deliver consistent results overtime. Furthermore, the blades are aircraft-grade stainless steel and resistant to dulling or bending. This quality blade matched with its powerful motor allows friction heat bringing cold ingredients to steaming hot.

Another bonus of this Vitamix Professional 750 series is the design of the container. The blender is specifically designed to allow the ingredients to fold back to the blades for fast, smooth blends. Essentially, it is creating a vortex which pulverizes frozen objects, ice, seeds, etc.

Ease of Use, Controls, & Accessories

Similar to the other Vitamix Blender, the 750 series is only a tad bit different but for the better. This blender is very easy to use and operate. The blender operates from simple switches and dials which makes it easy.

There is an off switch, a pulse switch, and a dial with 10 speeds + 5 program settings. These five pre-programmed settings ensure simple cleaning, walk-away convenience, and consistent results for smoothie, frozen dessert, soup, purée recipes, and cleaning.

Vitamix has amazing support and backs its warranty. You will have few issues with your Professional 750 Series Vitamix blender. There are plenty of reviews available to Vitamix owners as well.

Reviews and What Customers Are Saying

Almost everyone agrees on the fact that this is one amazing blender. It has a whopping 4.7 out of 5 stars with over 92% of people rating it between 4-5 stars. The ratings are consistent across sites from Vitamix and Amazon to Williams Sonoma.

4.7 Amazon Website
4.8 Vitamix Website

Looking deeper into the reviews, here is how the blender performs with ice, frozen fruits, ice drinks, and smoothies.

Outstanding device- excellent at pulverizing everything, including ice cubes, down to the blueberry skins (no blue flecks left); easy to clean, easy to set up – just pop the container onto the base

The quality is superior: the container is a thick plastic and won’t break, and it blends frozen fruit chunks with ease. The consistency is perfect, as there are no tiny chunks of foods such as spinach or seeds. And… I don’t know what I would do without the cleaning cycle.

Works great with frozen fruit and hard to blend vegetables. Very easy to clean with soap and water. Easy to put together and store. Would definitely recommend.

Overall, the Professional 750 Series is a superior blender in many regards. As for blending ice, smoothies, ice drinks, ice cream, and frozen fruits: you won’t have any difficulty with its power and tamper to push ingredients down.

What We Like

  • Extremely powerful and easily blends ice and frozen fruit
  • Very easy to clean and operate, especially larger batches
  • Blends everything smoothly and consistently

What We Don’t Like

  • It is quite loud for a blender
  • Only able to make larger batches unless you get the smaller container (recommended)
  • You’ll likely need to separate the jar from the blender when storing away

#5 Ninja Mega Kitchen System – Ice Crushing & Frozen Fruit Smoothie Dream

Ninja Mega Kitchen System - Ice Crushing & Frozen Fruit Smoothie Dream

KEY FEATURES

  • Rating: 9.1 out of 10
  • Power: 2 horsepower & 1,500 watts
  • Blade: Multiple detachable blades for ice, etc.
  • Container: Plastic
  • Capacity: 72oz pitcher, 64oz processor, & 16oz (x2) smoothie containers
  • Warranty: 1 year
  • Price: $150 – $190
Check Latest Price >>>

The Ninja Mega (as we refer to it) is quite the blender in terms of power, accessories, reviews, and price point. In fact it is fairly comparable with the Ninja Professional with the exception of the price. Thus we rated it lower in terms of overall value. There are quite a few similarities between these two Ninja blenders.

Powerful Motor and Blades for Ice & Frozen Fruit Blends

The Ninja Mega blender has a 2 horsepower motor and operates at 1,500 watts. This pulverizes ice to snow in seconds for creamy frozen drinks and smoothie. It has 6-blade assembly system that is easily removable. Furthermore, the blades are known as total crushing blades whether it be for crushing ice for drinks or frozen fruit for smoothies.

Ease of Use, Controls, & Accessories

Moreover this Ninja Mega is simple to use and operate. It has a simple power and pulse button. In addition, there are 4 dedicated blending speeds whether it be for smoothies, ice, or dough.

It includes a number of accessories for every blending or food processing need you run into. The blender includes a food processor bowl, 72 ounce total crushing pitcher, and two 16 ounce Nutri Ninja cups with to go lids.

The blender pitcher features total crushing technology to blast through ice and frozen fruit. In addition, it is very easy to clean. Simply put it in the dishwasher as it is dishwasher safe!

Reviews and What Customers Are Saying

The Ninja Mega has over 4,000 customer ratings with an impressive rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars. In fact, over 90% of people rate this blender between 4 and 5 stars.

Digging deeper into the reviews and customer feedback; here is how this blender performs with crushing ice, ice drinks, and frozen fruit.

Yes it’s a little loud but it sure whizzes up ice as fine as snow, which is great in blended coffee drinks. 

With the blender, fill it up with ice, turn it on high and in seconds it has made snow, makes awesome daiquiris. 

It is powerful and does the job of blending kale, chia seeds, ice, frozen fruits, even carrots and celery well. Just make sure you add enough liquid in

Overall, it seems that this blender is great for ice drinks, blended coffee, crushing ice, and frozen fruit for smoothies. It has great ratings and reviews from past customers and a well known house grand.

What We Like

  • Strong motor for blending ice (frappucinos came out great)
  • Huge center blade really gets the job done
  • Awesome useful accessories without paying extra

What We Don’t Like

  • Very loud and noisy
  • Blades are very sharp so be careful
  • Blending seeds out is difficult if not impossible (unlike Vitamix)
  • Big and hard to store

#6 Homgeek Blender Ice & Smoothie Blender

Homgeek professional blender ice crushing blender high power blender smoothie blender

KEY FEATURES

  • Rating: 8.6 out of 10
  • Power: 1.9 horsepower & 1,450 watts
  • Blade: 3 Layer & 8 Stainless Steel Blades
  • Container: Tritan
  • Capacity: 68 ounces
  • Warranty: 1 year
  • Price: $100 – $125
Check Latest Price >>>

Homgeek professional blender ice crushing blender high power blender smoothie blender not only plays the role of blender but also acts as a juicer, meat grinder, and ice machine.

This Homegeek Blender is an under-the-radar blender brand that is pleasantly surprising people. It has similar look and feel to the Vitamix. Although it isn’t as powerful nor comparable brand value. However, it is a more affordable alternative and still packs quite the punch in terms of power for ice crushing and frozen ingredients.

Blender Power & Blades for Ice & Frozen Ingredients

The Homegeek Professional Blender is equipped with a 2.25 horsepower motor, 1450 watts, and enhanced 3,0000 RMP. It crushes ice in just a few seconds, faster than other blenders and making milkshakes (or smoothies) smoother in consistency.

Another important element, is the blades. It has 3 layer & 8 hardened stainless-steel blades system. These blades combined with the power pulverizes ice and frozen fruit in seconds.

Ease of Use & Controls

The blender is intuitive and easy to use similar to the Vitamix. A simple on and off switch, 10 speed variable dial, and a pulse switch. The dial can be rotated at any time during operation. The built-in pulse function allows you to refine every texture. Simple and easy.  

Reviews and What Customers Are Saying

Surprisingly, this Homegeek professional blender is receiving pretty good reviews with a 4.6 out of 5 star ratings. Simply put, about 9 out of 10 people recommend this blender. People like the fact it is easy to use and clean.

Once again, taking a closer look at the reviews and ratings, here are a few key points about this blender’s ability to handle ice and frozen fruit for smoothies or ice drinks.

It’s so powerful and blends frozen fruits and ice to perfect consistency every time. It’s easy to use and clean up is a breeze. Happy with this purchase.

As far as functionality, it has an incredibly powerful motor that crushes ice instantly. 

Overall, it seems as though this blender is a hidden gem. Especially consider its price point. The best way to describe the blender is an affordable knock-off to the Vitamix blender.

What We Like

  • Does a good job blending ice, frozen fruit, and thinner substances
  • Very easy and intuitive to operate
  • Price is affordable

What We Don’t Like

  • Very loud blender
  • People complain about a smell when blending likely from the motor
  • It will have difficulty blending thicker substances and leaves chunks

#7 COSORI Blender for Ice, Shakes & Smoothies

1400W Heavy Duty Professional Blender For Crushing Ice, Frozen Fruit with 64oz Pitcher 20Oz Travel Bottle

KEY FEATURES

  • Rating: 8.2 out of 10
  • Power: 1.9 horsepower & 1,400 watts
  • Blade: Razor sharp blades, not removable
  • Container: Plastic
  • Capacity: 60 ounces
  • Warranty: 1 year
  • Price: $80 – $100
Check Latest Price >>>

Cosori Blender is another brand that isn’t well known but does a decent job in terms of blending frozen fruit for smoothies and crushing ice for daiquiris of coffee drinks. It also has a similar look and feel as a Vitamix. This blender is designed in California.

Power and Blades Capable of Crushing Ice & Frozen Fruit

This blender boasts a 1.9 horsepower motor, 1,400 watts, and 25,000 rpms offering high performance. In combination with its razor sharp blades, the Cosori thoroughly breaks down ice cubes, frozen fruits, vegetables, seeds, nuts and all kinds of other ingredients.

Ease of Use & Controls

Simple controls give you easy ability to operates this blender. The central knob helps you adjust speed, while a switch pulses food. There is a simple on and off switch. No touch screens or LED panels to confuse. Use the speed control knob to go between low and high speeds, even while mid-blend. Tap or hold down the switch to pulse foods.

Reviews and What Customers Are Saying

Customers love how easy this blender is to use and its speed control dial. It has a 4.5 out of 5 star rating. This blender has the power to easily handle ice.

Moreover, here are a few reviews specific to this blenders ability to handle frozen fruits and ice.

The COSORI has no difficulty in crushing ice. Even with a pitcher that is 2/3 full of ice, lime, and margarita liquids, it crushes it to a finer degree than any blender we’ve had before.

Perfect for juice, frapps, etc. Goes through ice like it was made by the US Coast Guard.

Blends ice and smoothies lightning fast and smoothly. No ice chunks left over.

Overall, the Cosori is a strong candidate for best blender for ice, frozen fruit, and ice drinks. It has good reviews, powerful motor, and blades to easily handle ice.

What We Like

  • Easily handles frozen fruit and crushes ice to snow
  • Good performance for the price
  • High quality control knobs

What We Don’t Like

  • Very loud blender
  • Doest not operate well at low speeds
  • Cheap components that are lightweight

#8 Oster Blender Pro 1200

Oster Blender Pro 1200 affordable ice blender

KEY FEATURES

  • Rating: 7.9 out of 10
  • Power: 1.6 horsepower & 1,200 watts
  • Blade: 6 stainless steel blade system, removable
  • Container: Tritan
  • Capacity: 48oz jar & 24oz smoothie container
  • Warranty: 1 year
  • Price: $60 – $80
Check Latest Price >>>

Oster Blender is the best budget friendly blender for ice use cases. I’m pretty sure almost everyone starts out with an Oster or comparable blender due to its cost effectiveness. Lower your expectations compared to the other blenders mentioned but know it still works! Oster has been around for over 70 years.

Blender Power and Blades for Ice

The blender has a 1.6 horsepower motor with 1200 power watts and 900 watts of ice crushing power. It has a 50% larger blade system (compared to previous Oster blender models) and patented Dual Direction Blade Technology that blends in forward and reverse motion. This allows for the blender to make easy work of crushing ice and frozen fruit.

Ease of Use, Controls, & Accessories

Oster Pro 1200 Blender is simple to use with its pre-programmed settings for smoothies, salsas, and milkshakes, and 7 speeds from pulse to puree. In addition, it comes with Boroclass Glass Jar that is durable and dishwasher safe. It also comes with an on-the-go smoothie cup.

Reviews and What Customers Are Saying

The Oster is by no means a Vitamix or Blendtec, but still rates fairly high amongst consumers. It has a 4.4 out of 5 star rating. A lot of customers like the glass jar and it is easy to clean.

After further digging, here are a few reviews regarding this Oster blender’s performance with crushing ice and frozen fruit.

It does a great job crushing ice and making smoothies, milkshakes are awesome

Blends really well, even ice cubes are no match for this blender.

Really crushes ice into a nice uniform consistency. Fantastic margaritas. Would recommend.

Overall, the Oster 1200 Pro blender does its jobs in terms of ice and frozen fruit. It won’t have the same consistency as more powerful blenders, but if you’re not picky and a budget this will do the trick.

What We Like

  • The glass jar is high quality and looks good
  • Can replace the blades without buying a whole cup assembly
  • For the price, it has a lot of power for crushing ice

What We Don’t Like

  • Loud blender but quieter than the Ninja blender
  • Moves across the counter while blending
  • Order replacement blades online versus in stores

5 Features to Consider Before Choosing the Best Blender for Ice and Frozen Fruit

5 Features to Best Blender for Ice & Frozen Fruit

1. Blender for ice and frozen fruit needs a powerful motor

A blenders motor is the most essential feature to consider when buying a blender for ice or frozen fruit. Many blenders fall short with low quality or low powered motors. In fact, your average blender will likely not have enough power to crush ice or frozen fruit.

So how much power do you need to sufficiently pulverize ice and frozen ingredients? The ideal blender power for crushing ice and blending frozen fruit is watts between 1,000 watts and 1,500 watts. That is roughly equivalent to a motor with 1.34 to 2.0 horsepower.

The average countertop blender is 500 watts or 0.67 horsepower. Clearly, not enough power for a blender to properly blend ice, frozen ingredients, or even thicker smoothies. In other words, you will have a hard time making quality ice drinks or smoothies with an average blender.

Many try to use average blenders for ice use cases like smoothies, but it does not work well. Usually the blender motor burns out due to the strain and over use. It is better to use an ideal blender made to handle ice, frozen

2. Ice and frozen fruit smoothie blender needs high quality blades

An equally important feature to power is the blades when considering the best blender for ice. The blade is often overlooked. Consumers don’t bother to understand the role a blade plays in crushing frozen fruit and ingredients during the blending process.

First, the quality of the blade is based on the materials and design. There are different kinds of steel and thicknesses that impact the effectiveness of the blades ability to crush ice and frozen fruit. A blender myth is that sharper blades make a difference. Don’t fall for this as blade sharpness has little to do with a blender’s performance.

In fact, the most important factors are blade materials, length, thickness, and angles. Blenders with long blade lengths close to edge of the jar will chop almost anything as it has to pass through it.

The two biggest brands in the blender industry, Blendtec and Vitamix, make high quality blender blades. Both makes blades from high-grade industrial stainless steel metals with patented processing technologies.

blendtec vitamix and ninja blades for crushing ice and frozen fruit comparison

Despite the differences in the blades design, Vitamix and Blendtec blenders are amazing at crushing ice and blending frozen ingredients. In a comparison of Vitamix vs Blendtec, we know that both are excellent for ice drinks, ice cream, and smoothies.

3. Design of container for efficiency of ice & frozen ingredients

Another often overlooked feature that impacts a blenders ability to properly blend and crush ingredients is the design of the container. The design of the blending jar is important because it impacts the flow of ingredients.

Blender Containers Good for Ice Drinks, Smoothies, and Frozen Fruit

The best blenders for ice, frozen fruit, and smoothies create a vortex flow by sucking the frozen ingredients down towards the blades. From the blades continuous and consistent flow forces the contents down through the blades then up the sides of the container back to the top.

Furthermore a taller, narrow container requires you to use a spatula to push down the frozen fruit and ingredients. Contrastingly, a wide blending container makes ingredients like ice to more easily fall down to the blades. This is because the ingredients have less distance to travel.

Lastly, it is important to consider the material of the container and size. Generally there are two types of containers: glass and plastic. Moreover, a quality glass container is made from impact resistant glass. Alternatively, the best plastic containers use polycarbonate which is a dense, durable plastic. Most blender containers will hold up fine.

4. Easy to use and operate

Above all, a blender should not be difficult to operate and use. After all, you are blending, not flying a rocket ship. Especially if you are using a blender daily for ice drinks and frozen smoothies. Moreover, a good blender for ice and smoothies is intuitive and easy to use. Furthermore, you want a blender that is easy to clean and store away.

There are blender models that come with lots of pre-set programs, touch screens, and LED screens. Consequently, these features don’t add to its performance and ability to blend ice and frozen fruit. In other words, it adds more complexity often frustrating consumers.

Most importantly, choose the best blender for ice crushing and frozen fruit blending that is easy to understand and use.

5. Price and affordability

Price is almost always a factor when considering the best blender for frozen fruit smoothies and ice drinks. First, we recognize there are those who truly do not have a lot of extra money. On the other hand, there are those with plenty of money to spare. However, for most people, the truth behind the price sensitivity is whether you will truly get the value out of the blender.

Weigh price versus value for best ice blender

Certainly, you should not sacrifice price when you are looking for a specific blender. As the saying goes, “you get what you pay for” is quite true. Therefore, the best ice and smoothie blenders are built with powerful motors, unique container designs, and superior blades. More over, all of these ice crushing features cost more to make.

In fact, we talk to several consumers who went with a more affordable blender but regretted it and wish they spent the extra $100 – $200 for the best ice blender.

Finally, don’t sacrifice quality for price. Moreover, save for an extra couple of months to get the best blender for ice drinks, frozen fruit, ice cream, and smoothies rather than settling for a budget friendly version.

Best Blender Tips for Blending Frozen Fruits and Ice Crushing

We spoke to a few experts (bar tends, smoothie fanatics, and others) on best tips for blending frozen fruits and crushing ice for drinks. Here is what the blender experts recommendations when making frozen drinks:

#1 Start with liquid ingredients

No matter what the recipe says, first put in the most liquid ingredients and then layer in more thicker ingredients like ice. For example, for a frozen fruit smoothie first add juice and yogurt. Next add unfrozen fruit like bananas. Lastly, add your frozen fruit and ice. The weight of the frozen ingredients will push everything down to the blades. Start the blender low speed then increase.

#2 Different types of ice

Yes, there are different types of ice. If your blender has trouble with standard size ice cubes, try crushing or cracking ice first. Some refrigerators have automatic ice dispensers with crushed ice settings. An alternative method is wrap the ice cubes in a towel and hit it with a mallet or skillet. This will also make your blades last longer.

#3 Fresh ingredients always

Make sure to use fresh and the best ingredients you can find. A simple trick is taste the ice and make sure there is no other flavors. Ice can absorb food odors and taste off. Ensure the ice is clean tasting.

Top 5 Blender Ice Drinks for Cocktails

Texture and temperature make for exciting cocktail drinks. There’s nothing quite like relaxing with a fresh well-made cocktail made with finely crushed ice. Here are the top 5 ice cocktail drinks. Finely crushed ice makes all the difference in the world. Get the best blender for ice to enjoy them at your house.

  1. Margaritas
  2. Pinacoladas
  3. Daiquiris
  4. Moscow Mule
  5. Julep

Ice Blender Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can all blenders crush ice or frozen fruit?

Not all blenders are designed or able to crush ice. For example, some hand-held blenders blenders may slightly chip or crush a few ice cubes. It won’t be able to do many. In addition, many portable personal blenders only can handle tiny ice cubes with a lot of liquid. A blenders power and blade will determine whether it can sufficiently blend ice or frozen fruit.

2. What is the best portable blender for ice and frozen fruit?

BlenderX by Modern Comfort is one of the only and best battery powered blender for pulverizing frozen fruit and ice. It has a powerful motor and blade to handle all frozen ingredients.

3. How do you blend ice smoothly?

The easiest way to blend ice is add liquid if the blender is having difficulties. Another option is too slightly crush the ice beforehand. It is important to layer ice cubes on top of more liquid, thinner ingredients as the weight of the ice will push itself down towards the blade. The blade pulling ingredients downwards and the ice weight creates a vortex.

4. Why does my blender not crush ice or frozen fruit?

A blenders ability to crush or blend ice and frozen food is highly dependent on the horsepower of the motor and quality of the blades. A low powered blender will likely just bounce the ice around or not work. In addition, a low quality or flimsy blade will just skip the frozen ingredients around the container. Check the specifications of your blender and think about upgrading.

5. Can you put frozen fruit or ice in a blender?

Fully frozen fruit or ice cubes should only go in a blender that is powerful enough and quality blender blades. The horsepower of the motor determines if there is enough power to blend frozen fruit and ice cubes. In addition, a blade needs to be strong enough otherwise it will bend or break. If your blender is not able to handle frozen fruit or ice, simply set the fruit out to thaw for a few minutes or crush the ice a little.

Final Thoughts on Best Blender for Ice Crushing & Frozen Fruit

There are several great blender options for ice and frozen fruit blending. We went through 8 different blenders that can handle frozen ingredients from ice to frozen fruit. Here is a summary of the best blenders depending on your needs and sensitivity to price.

Thanks for checking out the best blenders for ice and frozen ingredients. We hope you found a lot of value in this guide.

Best Blender for Ice

Description: One of the best blender for ice on the market we use at Stumpf Studio. Whether your are making delicious tasty ice drinks to amazing smoothies with no lumps or seeds, this is the best blender for ice crushing and frozen fruit.
Average Rating: 4.9 out of 5
Votes: 19

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