Vitamix 510 vs 5200 – Which Classic Blender Stands Stronger?

Both the Vitamix 510 and 5200 belong to the brand’s trusted legacy of powerful blenders, but they don’t serve the same purpose. These two models may look similar at a glance, yet their features, controls, and performance vary enough to influence your decision.

The Vitamix 510 steps in with a more modern preset approach, while the 5200 stays true to manual speed control that puts you in charge of every texture.

Design, container size, motor power, and ease of use all play a role in how each blender fits into daily blending routines. One works better for grab-and-go smoothies, and the other delivers full control for nut butters and hot soups.

This comparison dives into each model’s unique strengths, helping you figure out which one meets your blending style without confusing jargon or sales fluff. Let’s explore the real differences that matter most on your kitchen counter.

Vitamix 510 vs Vitamix 5200

Vitamix blenders are known for power, durability, and easy use. Two popular models Vitamix 510 and Vitamix 5200 offer strong blending but come with different features.

One focuses on convenience with presets. The other gives you full manual control. This article explains both in a simple way, so you can choose the right one for your needs.

Vitamix Propel Series 510 Blender

 

Vitamix 510 comes with a 48-ounce container. This size works best for small to medium batches. It’s good for personal servings or cooking for two to three people.

It has three preset programs: Smoothie, Hot Soup, and Frozen Dessert. These settings allow hands-free blending. You press the button, and it stops by itself when done. The 2-horsepower motor handles tough ingredients like frozen fruits and nuts.

The container and lid are made from BPA-free plastic. You can clean it in two ways—use the self-cleaning mode or put it in the dishwasher.

Features

• 48-ounce container

• Three preset programs

• 10 variable speeds

• Pulse feature

• BPA-free materials

• Self-cleaning and dishwasher safe

• High-performance 2 HP motor

• 5-year full warranty

What is the Good?

Preset programs make blending easy. You don’t need to guess or stay near the blender. Just push a button and wait. It’s great for daily use, especially for smoothies, hot soups, and desserts.

The 48-ounce size saves space. It fits well under most cabinets. Cleaning is fast. You can run the self-clean or just toss parts in the dishwasher. The pulse button adds flexibility for chunky sauces and soups.

What is the Bad?

The smaller container means you can’t blend large batches. It may not be ideal for families or batch cooking. The preset buttons are helpful, but they limit control.

You can’t change speed during a preset run. The warranty lasts five years. That’s good, but not as long as other Vitamix models.

Overall Opinion

Vitamix 510 works well for quick blending and small kitchens. The presets are useful, and the size is perfect for small households. It fits users who want simple, no-hassle blending.

Vitamix 5200 Professional Grade Blender

 

Vitamix 5200 comes with a large 64-ounce container. It’s perfect for big batches and family meals. You can blend soups, smoothies, and frozen treats all at once.

This model doesn’t have preset buttons. Instead, it gives you full control through a speed dial. You can change the speed at any point during blending. The stainless-steel blades cut through tough ingredients easily.

The container is not dishwasher safe, but self-cleaning works well. It includes a tamper and has a 7-year full warranty. That covers parts and performance for a long time.

Features

• 64-ounce container

• Manual variable speed dial

• Hot soup blending with friction heat

• Aircraft-grade stainless-steel blades

• Self-cleaning in under a minute

• Includes classic tamper

• 7-year full warranty

What is the Good?

The 64-ounce container is big enough for meal prep. Great for soups, sauces, or family smoothies. You get full control with the speed dial. You can adjust anytime during blending.

The stainless-steel blades are tough and reliable. The tamper helps push thick or frozen ingredients toward the blades. The long warranty adds extra peace of mind.

What is the Bad?

No preset programs. That means you need to stay near and control the speed manually. The tall container may not fit under low cabinets.

The container is not dishwasher safe, though self-cleaning still works well. It may be louder due to the powerful motor.

Overall Opinion

Vitamix 5200 is a workhorse. It fits users who want control, power, and large portions. It doesn’t have preset ease, but it offers long-term value and stronger blending options.

Detailed Comparison: Vitamix 510 vs Vitamix 5200

Both blenders come from the trusted Vitamix line. Both clean themselves, blend hot soups, and work with tough ingredients. The big difference lies in size, control, and ease of use.

Vitamix 510 has a 48-ounce container and preset buttons. It’s made for small to medium use. It fits small kitchens and makes blending simple with one-touch settings. Good for beginners or quick meals.

Vitamix 5200 has a larger 64-ounce container and manual speed control. It’s better for large families or meal prepping. It lets you control the texture more closely.

No presets, but more flexibility. It also includes a tamper and a longer warranty. The 510 wins for simplicity. The 5200 wins for power and batch size.

FAQs

Can both models make hot soup?

Yes. Both heat ingredients using blade friction. Just blend for about six minutes, and the soup becomes hot.

Do both models clean themselves?

Yes. Add warm water and dish soap. Blend for 30 to 60 seconds, and you’re done. The 510 container is also dishwasher safe.

Does Vitamix 510 come with a tamper?

No. The Vitamix 510 does not include a tamper. The 5200 includes a tamper in the box.

Is the Vitamix 5200 louder?

Yes. It can be louder due to its powerful motor and larger container.

Which blender is better for a family?

The Vitamix 5200 is better for family use. Its large container and strong motor handle bigger meals.

Conclusion

Vitamix 510 and Vitamix 5200 both offer strong blending and reliable results. The 510 is compact, easy to use, and great for quick meals. It works well in small kitchens and for people who want fast results with little effort.

The 5200 is bigger, more powerful, and gives you more control. It’s better for large portions, thick recipes, and users who like to fine-tune every blend.

Both are good. The right one depends on your kitchen size, batch needs, and how much control you want. Simple or powerful Vitamix has an option for both.