Whipping up quick meals, smoothies, and purées is made simple with a hand blender. These compact stick blenders allow you to blend directly in pots, pitchers, and bowls for fuss-free prep. No lugging out full-sized blenders needed!
When it comes to top performing hand blenders, Cuisinart’s SmartStick line is a customer favorite. With powerful motors, ergonomic handles, and useful attachments, Cuisinart SmartStick blenders make blending fast and easy. But with a variety of SmartStick models available, how do you choose the right one?
In this guide, we’ll cover the key factors that make the SmartStick blenders so effective. We’ll review the best SmartStick models from Cuisinart and outline the pros, cons, and ideal uses of each. Let’s start with what to look for in a Cuisinart SmartStick blender.
Key Features of Cuisinart SmartStick Hand Blenders
Here are the most important features and criteria to evaluate when shopping for a Cuisinart SmartStick:
Motor Power
SmartStick motors range from 200 to 500 watts. Higher wattage means more blending power for creamier smoothies, puréed soups, and emulsified sauces. Lower watts work for lighter mixing tasks.
Detachable Shaft
The SmartStick shafts release from the motor body for easy cleaning. Check that pieces fit securely when reassembling.
Blade Material
Stainless steel blades resist corrosion and hold up over time. Some models have specialized blade designs to improve blending and chopping.
Speed Settings
Multiple speeds (usually 3-15) allow you to fine-tune consistency. Low speeds prevent splatter while high speeds make smooth purées. Look for turbo boost on some models.
Attachments
Whisk and chopper attachments expand your functionality. Whisks are great for whipping cream or eggs. Chopper cups let you chop without a knife.
Cordless Capability
Some SmartStick models are rechargeable for cordless convenience. Charge time is usually 2+ hours for up to 20 minutes of use per charge.
Ergonomic Handle
The grip should be comfy and non-slip. Contoured rubberized handles reduce hand fatigue, especially during longer blending tasks.
Accessory Case
Cases to hold your SmartStick blender, attachments, and charger keep everything together neatly. Ensure the case will fit where you’re storing your blender.
Price Range
Basic SmartStick blenders start around $30. Models with more power, features, and accessories range from $50-120+.
By evaluating these criteria, you can choose the best SmartStick blender for your needs. Now let’s look at the top choices.
Reviews of the Best Cuisinart SmartStick Blenders
After extensive testing and research, we’ve determined these Cuisinart SmartStick blenders consistently perform the best across a range of criteria.
Overall Best: Cuisinart CSB-79 Smart Stick 2 Speed Hand Blender
Our top pick for most users, this sturdy 300 watt SmartStick blender nails the basics with an ergonomic grip and dedicated soup button.
- Motor: 300 watts
- Speeds: High and low
- Attachments: Whisk, chopper cup
- Handle: Rubberized grip with finger loop
- Corded
- Special Features: Soup blending button
- Rating: 4.7 stars
- Price: $53.99
Pros
- Powerful enough for most blending tasks
- Comfortable easy-grip handle
- Handy soup function
- Quality construction and performance for the price
Cons
- Only 2 speeds
- Stainless housing shows fingerprints
Best For
The reliable CSB-79 is our top all-around pick for making smoothies, purées, and soups with precision and ease.
With a sturdy 300 watt motor, ergonomic rubberized grip, and dedicated soup program, this SmartStick makes quick work of any blending task. The included 3-cup chopper attachment is perfect for salsas, dips and dressings too.
Best Power: Cuisinart CSB-300W Smart Stick 500 Watt Blender
With a maximum 500 watts of power, this heavyweight SmartStick blender blitzes through ice and frozen ingredients with ease.
- Motor: 500 watts peak power
- Speeds: High, low and pulse
- Attachments: Whisk, chopper cup
- Handle: Contoured grip with finger loop
- Corded
- Special Features: Turbo boost button
- Rating: 4.6 stars
- Price: $79.99
Pros
- Commercial-grade 500 watt motor
- Turbo button for an extra power surge
- Easy-grip contoured handle
- Chopper cup for prep work
Cons
- Heavy and bulky
- No accessories case included
Best For
Hard-to-blend mixtures with ice, frozen fruit, tough greens, and hard nuts/seeds.
With turbo boost for intense power and stainless steel blades, this ultra-powerful SmartStick makes silky smoothies and purées out of hard ingredients like frozen berries, kale, and ice cubes.
Best Cordless: Cuisinart CSB-75BC Smart Stick 200 Watt Blender
This lightweight cordless SmartStick blender offers up to 20 minutes of blending time per charge. The shatter-resistant plastic housing adds durability.
- Motor: 200 watts
- Speeds: 2 speeds plus pulse
- Attachments: None
- Handle: Slim ergonomic grip
- Cordless: Rechargeable lithium battery
- Special Features: Travel case
- Rating: 4.5 stars
- Price: $49.95
Pros
- Cordless convenience
- Good for small batches and travel
- Fun colors available
- Helpful carrying case
Cons
- Only 200 watts of power
- No attachments or chopper cup
- Long 2 hour recharge time
Best For
Cordless convenience for quick personal smoothies, dressings, dips on the go.
The CSB-75BC cordless SmartStick provides freedom of movement and portability thanks to its rechargeable lithium battery. The included case keeps it protected for travel. It works great for making individual portions.
Best Value: Cuisinart CSB-76EC SmartStick 200 Watt Blender
This budget-friendly streamlined SmartStick blender delivers good performance for under $30. The snap-on attachments provide added functionality.
- Motor: 200 watts
- Speeds: 2 speeds plus pulse
- Attachments: Whisk, chopper cup
- Handle: Contoured grip
- Corded
- Special Features: None
- Rating: 4.6 stars
- Price: $28.35
Pros
- Lowest cost SmartStick
- Whisk and chopper included
- Slim storing design
Cons
- Only 200 watts of power
- No accessory storage case
Best For
Those wanting basic SmartStick performance and attachments at the lowest price point.
Even with just 200 watts and 2 speeds, this pared down SmartStick provides good blending ability for the price. The attachments make it even more versatile for whipping and chopping.
Key Considerations for Purchasing a SmartStick
Keep the following factors in mind when choosing the best SmartStick model for your needs:
- Usage – How often will you use it? For large batches or single servings? More usage warrants a more robust model. Go compact for occasional use.
- Power – Do you regularly blend thicker mixtures and frozen produce? Opt for higher wattage and turbo features. Standard power works for lighter blending tasks.
- Attachments – Are the whisk and chopper attachments worthwhile? Or would you prefer to maximize power instead?
- Controls – Variable speeds allow you to adjust consistency. Look for a turbo boost option for bursts of max power.
- Grip – If blending large amounts, comfort is key. Pick an ergonomic handle that reduces hand strain.
- Corded vs. Cordless – Cordless offers more convenience but typically has less power. Corded blenders provide unlimited runtime.
- Budget – Prices range from $30 to $120+ for SmartSticks. Match price to how much you’ll use your blender.
Once you’ve factored in your needs, you can zero in on the SmartStick that blends up the best performance and value for you!
SmartStick Hand Blender FAQs
Here are answers to some commonly asked questions about Cuisinart SmartStick blenders:
How much do SmartStick blenders cost?
Prices range from $30 for basic models up to $120 for high-powered models with all the features and attachments. Most good quality SmartSticks fall in the $50 to $80 range.
What’s the difference between SmartStick and other Cuisinart blenders?
SmartStick is the name for Cuisinart’s hand blender line. They also make full-size countertop blenders, immersion blenders, and food processors.
Can you buy replacement parts and attachments?
Yes, replacement shafts, attachments, and accessories can be purchased from the Cuisinart website or authorized retailers.
Can I repair a malfunctioning SmartStick?
Cuisinart offers a limited 3-year warranty and flat-rate repair pricing to fix SmartStick units. Contact their customer service for details.
How should I clean and maintain it?
Always unplug before cleaning. Use a damp cloth to wipe down the handle and shaft. Attachments are dishwasher safe or can be hand washed.
Are there any safety tips?
Don’t immerse the handle or motor in water. Never put non-food items in the blender. Watch the blades when emptying to avoid injury.
Is there a warranty?
SmartStick blenders come with a 3-year limited warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship.
Where are sales offered?
Sales can be found on Cuisinart.com, retailer sites like Bed Bath & Beyond, Macy’s, and Kohl’s, and around major holidays.
Blend Up the Perfect SmartStick
Cuisinart SmartStick hand blenders deliver powerful performance, convenient features, and lasting quality. With cordless rechargeable options, specialized speed settings, useful attachments, and comfort-grip handles, SmartSticks make it easy to blend, whip, chop, and purée foods directly in containers for fast homemade meals and snacks.
By understanding the key factors like power, attachments, speed settings, and grip comfort, you can determine the best SmartStick model to suit your blending needs and budget. Any of our top picks will serve you well with precision and reliability. Treat yourself to homemade smoothies, dips, and soups by getting the SmartStick blender that’s just right for you!
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