Vitamix E310 vs E520 A Straightforward Buyer’s Guide

When I compared the Vitamix E310 and E520, I saw both have the same power but meet different needs. The E310 is compact and simple, great for small homes. The E520 has presets and a bigger jar, which makes it better for families.

In Seattle, I often make soups and smoothies for my kids. The E520 saved me time with big batches. But the E310 felt easier when I only made one drink.

From my use, the choice comes down to style. Do you want full control or easy presets? In this guide, I’ll show you the details so you can pick the best fit for your kitchen.

Vitamix E310 Review

The Vitamix E310 is my go-to blender for daily cooking. I use it for smoothies in the morning, soups at night, and nut butter when I want a treat. It feels solid, simple, and powerful. What I like most is how it avoids extra buttons. There’s only a dial, a pulse switch, and an on/off button.

That simplicity makes it easy to trust. I know exactly how it will act. The 48-ounce jar is just right for me and my partner. It makes enough for two people without waste.

This blender is not quiet. It gets loud at high speed. But it works so fast the noise does not last long. I found myself using it more than my old blender because cleanup is quick. Warm water, a drop of soap, and 30 seconds of blending—that’s it.

What I Like

• Simple controls – The dial lets me change speed on the fly. No presets to confuse me.
• Perfect size – The 48-ounce jar fits small households. Smoothies blend well without adding extra liquid.
• Smooth results – Frozen fruit, kale stems, even hummus come out silky.
• Built to last – It feels strong and sturdy. I dropped the tamper once and it didn’t scratch.
• Easy cleanup – Quick self-cleaning saves me from scrubbing sticky jars.

What Could Be Better

• Noise level – It is loud, especially at top speed. Not great if kids are asleep.
• Batch size – The jar is fine for two, but not for a family of four. You’ll need two runs.
• Warranty – The 5-year plan is solid, but other Vitamix models cover 7 to 10 years.

Vitamix E310 at a Glance

Recommendation

If you cook for yourself or a small family, the Vitamix E310 is a smart choice. It has the same power as higher-end models but in a smaller and cheaper package. I’d suggest it to anyone who likes cooking from scratch and wants control over texture. You can make chunky salsa one day and smooth soup the next.

If you need presets or often cook for big groups, look at the Vitamix E520 or Ascent series. But for most daily kitchen tasks, the E310 is simple and effective.

I use mine almost every day, and it has never failed me. If you want a reliable blender that gives smooth results without extra fuss, the Vitamix E310 is worth it.

Vitamix E520 Review

The Vitamix E520 is the blender I use when cooking for my family. I make big smoothie batches in the morning and soup at night. The 64-ounce jar is roomy, so I never need two rounds. On busy days, that extra space makes life easier.

What sets the E520 apart are its three presets: Smoothies, Hot Soup, and Frozen Desserts. I can press one button and walk away. While I prep breakfast or help my kids, the blender runs the cycle and shuts off on its own. That saves me both time and stress.

The design is shorter than older Vitamix models, so it fits under my kitchen cabinets. Cleanup is easy too. Just warm water, a drop of soap, and 30 seconds of blending. The only trade-off is the wide base. For small blends, I often need to add more liquid.

What I Like

• Large jar – The 64-ounce jar is perfect for my family of four. One big batch, no repeats.
• Preset programs – I can walk away while it handles soup or smoothies.
• Fits under cabinets – The low design makes counter storage simple.
• Strong performance – Ice, frozen fruit, and nut butter blend smooth with no struggle.
• Longer warranty – Seven years of coverage adds peace of mind.

What Could Be Better

• Small blends – A single smoothie may leave chunks unless I add extra liquid.
• Noise level – It is loud, especially during presets. I close the kitchen door in the morning.
• Price jump – It costs more than the E310. If you don’t need presets or a big jar, the extra price may not be worth it.

Vitamix E520 at a Glance

Recommendation

If you cook for three or more people, the Vitamix E520 is a smart choice. The big jar and presets make family meals simple. I’d suggest it for parents, busy pros, or anyone who likes “set it and forget it” blending.

If you usually cook for one or two, or you enjoy hands-on speed control, the Vitamix E310 is the better and cheaper pick. The E520 shines when you want more space and don’t mind paying extra for ease.

In my home, I grab the E520 for family nights or when I need things fast. It is powerful, practical, and built to last.

Vitamix E310 vs E520: Detailed Comparison

I’ve used both the Vitamix E310 and E520 in my kitchen. Each has its own style. The E310 is simple and compact. The E520 is bigger and adds presets for ease. Let’s see how they compare.

Blending Power: Vitamix E310 vs E520

Both crush ice, nuts, and greens with no trouble. In real use, the motors feel the same, even if the E520 is listed with more horsepower.

Rating: E310: 9/10 | E520: 9/10

Blade Quality: Vitamix E310 vs E520

Both use stainless steel blades that last. I’ve made nut butter and frozen treats with both. The results were the same.

Rating: E310: 9/10 | E520: 9/10

Jar Material: Vitamix E310 vs E520

Here’s the big change. The E310 has a 48-ounce jar that works well for small blends. The E520 has a 64-ounce jar, better for families but less ideal for one drink.

Rating: E310: 8/10 | E520: 9/10

Motor Strength: Vitamix E310 vs E520

Day to day, both feel equal in power. The jars, not the motors, change the blend.

Rating: E310: 9/10 | E520: 9/10

Noise Level: Vitamix E310 vs E520

Both are loud. The E520 may sound harsher since the wide jar pulls in more air.

Rating: E310: 7/10 | E520: 7/10

Performance: Vitamix E310 vs E520

Both make smooth blends, but each has strengths. The E310 is great for dips and nut butters. The E520 shines with big smoothies and soups.

Rating: E310: 9/10 | E520: 9/10

Ease of Use: Vitamix E310 vs E520

The E310 is hands-on. The E520 gives presets for walk-away use.

Rating: E310: 9/10 | E520: 9/10

Value for Money: Vitamix E310 vs E520

The E310 is cheaper and covers most needs. The E520 adds a bigger jar, presets, and a longer warranty—but at a higher cost.

Rating: E310: 9/10 | E520: 8/10

Overall: Vitamix E310 vs E520

Both are excellent, but for different needs. I grab the E310 when I want a smoothie or dip. I use the E520 for family meals or big blends.

Rating: E310: 9/10 | E520: 9/10

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