Black & Decker BL600 ProBlend 12-Speed Blender

The Black & Decker BL600 ProBlend is a practical alternative to higher-priced blenders. The unit has 12 speeds that efficiently handle an assortment of blending tasks. You can blend fruit smoothies, chop nuts, or puree cooked vegetables for soup. To use, select high or low, then depress one of the six speed control buttons. A separate "pulse" button affords added control when incorporating solids into liquids.

With 12 speed options, a large, easy-access ice-crushing button, and a pulse control, this powerful 400-watt blender provides precise control for every need from stirring pancake batter to grinding coffee beans to whipping cream to creating frozen margaritas. Smoothies, soups, chip dips, bread crumbs, chopped onions, and dozens of other items come out with exactly the texture and consistency desired. The blender's large, 42-ounce, glass jar and four-plane stainless-steel blade assembly are dishwasher-safe, and the speed buttons are arrayed vertically on the base for easy cleaning. The jar's lid cap doubles as a 2-ounce measuring cup. The wide, stable base rests on nonslip rubber feet that also serve as a cord wrap to reduce counter clutter.