We were impressed with the quality of this KitchenAid immersion blender - one of the more affordable ones we tested.

This model also includes a food processor and whisk attachment, and all attachments are dishwasher safe. The jar's lid doubles as an anti-slip mat to place under the jar while blending. In our test, we found that the jar was too large for a small-batch mayonnaise but that the blender itself made a beautiful mayo in a smaller vessel.

This pick came with the largest lidded mixing jar we tested (42 ounces), which is helpful for larger batches but does require more maneuvering for smaller servings. The blender attachment clips onto the motor with ease and feels secure. The nonstick edge on the blender arm means you can blend in your pots without fear of scratching. The rubber handle is soft, narrow and comfortable to grip, and the “on” button is easy to hold down. It requires more up-and-down motion to blend uniformly, but we still found it easy to operate. Some models create a vortex that pulls food into the blades and results in suction on the bottom of the container, but the Breville’s blade guard is uniquely shaped to reduce this, which allows you to raise the tool more easily as you blend and helps prevent splatters. This immersion blender offers 15 speed settings and has a lot of great features that make it our top pick.

Quiet mini blender