Look for a motor that delivers enough power for your typical recipes—900 W or higher is ideal for crushing ice and frozen fruit. Portable designs with detachable, dishwasher‑safe cups add convenience, while non‑BPA materials ensure safety. A secure safety interlock and easy‑to‑clean blades are also important for hassle‑free operation.

The KOIOS offers a much stronger motor (900 W vs. 300 W) and a dedicated 22 oz blending cup, making it better suited for smoothies and frozen drinks. In contrast, OVENTE’s immersion models are versatile for soups, sauces, and small batches but rely on a separate container. If you need a portable, all‑in‑one shaker, KOIOS provides more power and capacity, while OVENTE excels in flexibility for various pot sizes.

A rechargeable shaker delivers consistent, clump‑free mixes with a single press, eliminating the need for vigorous shaking. Its 1200 mAh battery provides up to 80 blends per charge, which is convenient for gym or travel use. However, it lacks the high‑speed crushing power of a dedicated blender, so it’s best for protein powders and thin liquids rather than frozen smoothies.

Most immersion blenders, including the 300 W OVENTE and 400 W Sangcon models, can handle soft ice but may struggle with large frozen chunks. For reliable ice crushing, look for a higher‑wattage motor (500 W or above) or a dedicated personal blender with a robust blade assembly. Adding a pulse function can improve performance, but a stand‑alone blender remains the most efficient option.

Stainless‑steel blades resist rust and maintain sharpness, while a multi‑leaf design (e.g., 6‑leaf in KOIOS) creates a vortex that blends faster and more evenly. Some models, like Braun’s ActiveBlade, move the blade up and down for extra cutting surface, which helps achieve smoother textures. Investing in quality blades reduces the need for pre‑cutting ingredients and extends the appliance’s lifespan.

Detachable blades and dishwasher‑safe cups, as seen in KOIOS and many immersion models, simplify cleanup. Some devices, like the VELOMIX shaker, offer a self‑clean cycle that runs water and soap at the press of a button. Avoid submerging motor bases unless they are rated IPX5, and always dry charging ports to prevent corrosion.

Extra accessories add versatility—additional cups let you prepare multiple drinks simultaneously, and whisk or frother attachments expand the range of recipes you can tackle. If you frequently make both smoothies and sauces, a multi‑attachment set like Sangcon’s 3‑in‑1 kit can provide good value. However, if your primary need is simple smoothies, a single‑cup blender with a solid motor may be more cost‑effective.

Consider the blend of power, capacity, durability, and warranty coverage. A higher‑wattage motor and robust stainless‑steel components often justify a higher upfront cost by lasting longer and handling tougher tasks. Look for brands offering extended warranties or responsive customer service, as these reduce long‑term risk and improve overall value.