The launch of the KitchenAid Pure Power Blender has garnered attention for its impressive performance at an affordable price point. Priced at approximately $129.99 directly from KitchenAid, and occasionally available for $119 at Walmart, this new blender offers a robust alternative to higher-end models, including the KitchenAid K400, which retails for $289.
Specifications and Design
The Pure Power Blender is designed with dimensions of 8 x 7.25 x 16.75 inches and weighs 7 pounds 11 ounces. It boasts a generous capacity of 68 ounces and a powerful 1,700 watts motor. Users can choose from ten variable speeds, three one-touch settings, and a pulse option, all backed by a one-year warranty.
KitchenAid is renowned for its high-quality kitchen appliances, particularly its stand mixers. The Pure Power Blender retains some of the brand’s classic aesthetic while incorporating contemporary elements. It features a cube-like base with curved corners, available in several colors, including Empire Red, Black Matte, Charcoal Gray, and Porcelain White.
The intuitive controls include an on/off button and presets for specific tasks such as ice crushing and smoothie blending. A Precision Control knob allows for tailored blending speeds, while the vented lid facilitates steam release during hot blends.
Performance Testing
Over the course of several weeks, the Pure Power Blender underwent rigorous testing to assess its capabilities. The first challenge involved crushing ice, a task that many blenders struggle with. Utilizing the ‘Ice Crush’ preset, the blender efficiently pulverized a handful of large ice cubes in about 30 seconds. The noise level reached approximately 85dB, which may be a consideration for those with infants or sensitive environments.
Next, the blender was tested for smoothies. A combination of frozen mango, Greek yogurt, and milk was blended successfully after some adjustments. Initially, the mixture struggled due to insufficient liquid, but the addition of milk resolved the issue. The preset for smoothies runs for 45 seconds, which generally suffices for a smooth blend.
Testing the blender’s ability to make hummus proved effective as well. Beginning with chickpeas and olive oil, the user found that the mixture needed to be scraped down for optimal blending. The addition of tahini, garlic, and lemon juice led to a smooth consistency. Notably, the blender automatically shuts off after three minutes of manual operation, a useful safety feature.
Finally, the blender’s performance with hot soups was tested. After cooking various vegetables in a Dutch oven, the contents were transferred to the blender. The machine’s capacity allowed for ample blending, and the ‘Pulse’ function provided short bursts of high-speed mixing, followed by a steady blend at speed one for hot liquids.
Cleaning the blender presented another challenge, as blenders often require careful attention due to sharp blades. Fortunately, the Pure Power Blender features a cleaning preset. After rinsing the jug, a mixture of warm water and dish soap was added, and the cleaning cycle was initiated. While the preset effectively cleaned the lower section of the jug, manual intervention was still necessary for thorough cleaning.
Overall, the KitchenAid Pure Power Blender has proven itself as an impressive kitchen appliance. With its combination of design, power, and functionality, it stands out as a strong contender in its price range. While the blender’s large capacity may not suit everyone, it offers an excellent balance of performance and affordability for those seeking a reliable blending solution without the premium price tag.
