Can an immersion blender replace a countertop blender?

For soups, sauces, and most smoothies — yes. For large batches, ice crushing, or hot blending of large volumes, a full-size blender handles it better. Many people own both.

Is it safe to use an immersion blender in a hot pot?

Yes, that's exactly what they're designed for. Let the soup cool slightly off a full boil (around 190°F is fine) to reduce splatter. Keep the blade submerged while running.

Can I use an immersion blender in a non-stick pot?

Use the plastic-guard models (most have a plastic cage around the blade) in non-stick. Avoid scraping the blending shaft against the coating — blend in the center of the pot.

Best Immersion Blenders of 2026

Immersion blenders — also called stick blenders or hand blenders — let you blend hot soups directly in the pot, make smoothies in the cup, and whip cream without hauling out a stand mixer. They're the fastest, easiest cleanup blender for everyday cooking.

The best immersion blenders in 2026 handle everything from silky-smooth bisques to chunky salsas with variable speed and enough torque to tackle fibrous vegetables.

What to Look For

Motor Power: 700W or above handles tough jobs like carrot soup. Below 300W is fine for soft fruits but will struggle with fibrous vegetables.
Variable Speed: A speed dial (not just high/low) gives you control over texture — gentle pulse for chunky soups, full power for smooth purées.
Shaft Length: Longer shafts (9"–11") let you blend in deep pots without splatter. Match to your largest pot.
Attachments: Whisk and food-chopper attachments extend the tool's usefulness — great if you want an all-in-one hand blender system.
Ergonomics: You'll hold this for several minutes — rubber grip, balanced weight, and a thumb-triggered power button reduce fatigue.

Our Top Picks

#1 Best Overall

Braun MultiQuick 9 MQ7035X Immersion Blender

ActiveBlade technology floats the blade for smooth results at any speed. 9 speeds, 750W motor, and included whisk/chopper make this a true multi-tool.

~$100 View on Amazon →

#2 Runner-Up

KitchenAid KHBV53 Variable Speed Hand Blender

5 blending speeds, 3-inch blending arm, and a twist-off shaft for easy cleanup. KitchenAid reliability in a sleek brushed stainless design.

~$60 View on Amazon →

#3 Best Budget

KOIOS 800W Immersion Hand Blender

800W motor that rivals blenders twice the price. 12 speeds, stainless steel blending wand, detachable for dishwasher cleaning. Great value buy.

~$35 View on Amazon →

#4 Best Premium

Vitamix Immersion Blender 5-Speed

Vitamix brings its legendary motor efficiency to stick form — industrial-grade blade assembly, scratch-resistant titanium coating, and a 5-year warranty.

~$130 View on Amazon →

Bottom Line

The Braun MQ7035X hits the sweet spot of power, attachments, and build quality. Budget shoppers will be surprised by the KOIOS 800W — it outperforms its price tag significantly.