Vitamix A2300 vs A3500: Which blender is right for you?
Have you ever felt overwhelmed after buying expensive kitchen gear? Most times, we often ignore the cost of our purchases. So if I may ask, how much do you spend each month on making blends? If you’re spending $300 or more every week, then perhaps a blender is worth the investment. In this article, I’ll be comparing the Vitamix A2300 vs A3500.
After years of research, testing and development, Vitamix has finally released their newest blender model belonging to the Ascent series. The new Vitamix A3500 was designed with two speed settings (high and low) along with three blades for blending, chopping, grinding and mixing as opposed to the predecessor (Vitamix A2300).
With its powerful motor and high performance, this blender can handle a variety of tasks. This means that it can blend ice cream, cookies, smoothies, soups, sauces, dressings, milkshakes, margaritas, juices, desserts, and much more.
If you want to create an entire meal using only a single blender, this is the best option for you. And unlike other models, this one comes with a cool auto shut-off feature. But then, is this the perfect machine for everyone?
Read on to find out more about the differences between these blenders after which you can make a final decision on which model is worth your investment.
Read Also: Vitamix 7500 vs. A2300 and Vitamix A2300 and A2500
Differences between the Vitamix A2300 and A3500
- The Vitamix A2300 and the A3500 have the same powerful motor. However, the A3500 is a little bit stronger and uses more energy at full speed.
- The A3500 have preset modes, whereas the Vitamix A2300 don’t.
- The Vitamix A3500 has a touchscreen, but the Ascent A2300 can only be controlled by buttons.
- The A3500 has a self-cleaning feature, but the A2300 requires manual cleaning.
The Similarities between Vitamix Ascent A2300 and A3500
- They are both Smart blenders and belong to the ascent models.
- The Vitamix A3500 motor and that of the A2300 are the same: the motor power is 2.2 peak horsepower.
- They both have the same 64-Ounce Jar size that can contain an equal amount of food.
- The A2300 and A3500 each come with a 10-speed variable dial.
- They both have an On/Off switch and a pulse button
- The A3500 supports mobile App control. Likewise, the A2300.
- They both have smart features that include: a digital timer, wireless compatibility and self detect technology.
Below is a quick comparison recap for the two Ascent models
Vitamix A2300 vs Vitamix A3500 comparison chart
| Model: | A2300 | A3500 |
| Lineup: | Ascent-series | Ascent series |
| Motor size: | 2.2 HP Peak engine (1,450 watts) | 2.2 HP Peak engine (1,640 watts) |
| Pitcher Capacity: | 64-Ounce low profile container | 64-Ounce low profile Jar |
| Blade type: | 4-count stainless steel blades /4inch | 4 count Stainless steel blades/ 4inch |
| Variable Speed control | 10-Speed dial | 19-speed dial |
| On/Off Toggle | Yes | Yes |
| Pulse button | Yes | Yes |
| Preset mode | Yes (App only) | Yes / 5 preset dial (touchscreen) |
| Premium dial: | No | Yes |
| Timer | Yes | Yes |
| Bluetooth compatibility: | Yes | Yes |
| Self detects technology: | Yes | Yes |
| Noise insulation: | Quieter | More Quieter |
| Dishwasher safe | Yes | Yes |
| Self-cleaning: | No | Yes |
| Attachments: | Cookbook, Manual & Tamper | Tamper, Manual & Cookbook |
| Colour Variant: | 4 | 3 |
| Dimensions & Weight: | 11 x 8 x 17.0 inch &11 lbs | 10.8 x 7.8 x 17 in & 14 lbs |
| Warranty: | 10-Years | 10 Years |
| Best selling: | Rated #35 of 112 | Rated #11 of 112 |
| Cost: | See A2300 latest price | See the A3500 latest price |
Comparing the Vitamix A2300 vs A3500 features in detail
Although these two Ascent models have a cool appearance, consumers have rated the A3500 above the A2300 to the 11th position because of its improved design (touchscreen) and numerous smart features such as its Programming modes and smart controls including App and wireless connectivity. Leaving the A2300 in the #35th position with fewer smart features. Below is a detailed review of both Vitamix models when it comes to their features and specifications.
Motor & Base
When it comes to blender power, compared to other well-known series, these two Ascent series models give you the best possible blending power that enables you to achieve various textures effortlessly. Both models offer the same powerful motor. The Vitamix A3500 is powered by a 2.2 horsepower motor, likewise the Vitamix A2300.
Additionally, Included in the motor base is a cooling fan and a thermal protection system. The cooling technology is designed to prevent overheating after a few minutes of running the machine. This means your motor base will not get hot. And if it gets hot, the thermal protection would cause the motor to stop running by automatically shutting off. This means both blenders are safe to use.
Container Size (Pitcher)
When choosing a blender to go for, you must look up the container type and size. After taking a deep look at both models, I discovered they both came with a 64-Ounce container made from BPA-free materials. The 64Oz Capacity Jar makes it possible to prepare large batches of food on a single blend. This means you can make food for large households.
Additionally, the A2300 and A3500 have a self detect container feature that makes it even easier for your blender to detect the size of the container you place on it and then automatically preset itself to achieve a customised blending base on the selected pitcher.
Blades material
These two Ascent blenders come with a thick sharp blade. The 4inch diameter long blades are made from a laser-cut stainless steel material. The Ascent A2300 and the A3500 blades are designed to achieve the same quality result. The good part of it is that the blades are dishwasher safe and BPA-free, unlike most other blenders.
Control settings (Variables)
There is no other joy than to see yourself have full control over your blender. Going through these two Ascent models (A2300 & A3500), I discovered they both come with Variable controls, pulse buttons and an On/Off toggle. The Vitamix A3500 and the A2300 have the same amount of Variable speed dials.
The 10-Variable speed dials on the A3500 and A2300 makes it possible to run your blender on a low or high speed to achieve consistent result from blending.
However, it’s encouraged that you run your machine from the lowest and gradually increase it to the highest speed. The pulse allows you to easily swap speed and for handling tough ingredients, while the Switch button enables you to conveniently turn on/off your blender before and after use.
Pre-Programmable Modes
Aside from the basic control features in both Ascent models, the Vitamix A3500 also comes with an additional control function (preset mode). Unlike the A2300 with no preset mode, the A3500 have five (5) preset modes that give you extra control over your blender for convenient use. With the five preset modes, you can simply program your blender to blend ingredients while you walk away to do another task while you expect quality results.
The A3500 gives you a hands-free benefit. If you are looking to prepare smoothies, hot soups, frozen desserts, dips & or spreads, the A3500 5 preset features can give you the desired result from your blender. Plus you’ll enjoy the self-cleaning benefit. All of these benefits are lacking in the Ascent A2300 because it has no physical preset mode. Although you can have the preset function available for the two models only through the Mobile App.
Verdict: The Vitamix A3500 wins because it has 5 pre-programable settings which the A2300 doesn’t have.
Extras & Attachment
The A3500 and the A2300 both come with a built-in digital timer. The timer function helps on the blender and is designed to prevent over-or under-processing your custom recipes. All that is required to do is to set the timer to the duration of which you want to achieve your blend. Once it gets to that time, it will turn the machine will turn off automatically.
However, the A3500 is a touchscreen blender with all controls inside, while the A2300 is just the regular buttons. Additionally, they both come with necessary attachments such as a tamper stick, Cookbook and User Manual.
Ease of use & Cleaning
When it comes to usability, both Vitamix models are easy to use. However, because of the numerous features of the A3500, the A2300 becomes straightforward to use because of its simple controls compared to the A3500 with lots of smart features. Beginners will find the A2300 easier to use than the A3500 with multiple features.
The two Ascent series models are both easy to clean. Although, the A3500 has a self-cleaning technology that enables the blender to clean itself with just a single dial. All you just need to do is to drop a bar of soap in the container, pour warm water, run the blender for about 60 seconds and it will be cleaned up already. However, the A2300 don’t have a self-clean function, which means you have to manually clean it up.
Additionally, both blenders are durable, which means they are built to last plus they are versatile enough to blend several types of foods.
Weight
Unlike blenders from other series, Both Ascent series models are not much heavy. However, the A3500 weighs more than the A2300. The Vitamix Ascent A3500 weighs 14.92 pounds but the A2300 weigh just 11 pounds only.
Verdict: The A2300 wins because it’s lightweight and easier to move from one place to another.
Warranty & Cost
Just like every other Ascent model, the Vitamix Ascent A2300 and A3500 both have the same warranty duration that lasts 10 years. The warranty covers all defective body parts of your machine. However, the warranty doesn’t apply to self result. Also, the A3500 is a bit expensive compared to its counterparts from the same ascent lineups.
Verdict:
Aside from being a touchscreen blender, I like the Vitamix A3500 because it has a sleeker design, it’s more modern and quieter when blending. On the other hand, I like the A2300 because it’s cheaper and easier to use as a beginner. Also, the preset modes on the A3500 are another benefit for those looking to make custom blends.
Frequently Asked Questions and Answers
What is the difference between Vitamix A2300 and A3500?
The A3500 has 5 preset modes that make custom blends easy, faster and possible, but the A2300 don’t have any preset function.
Is the Vitamix 3500 worth it?
The A3500 is worth it if you need a blender with preset functions to make custom recipes. Plus it’s sleeker and smarter than the A2300.
Conclusion: which model should you choose, A2300 or A3500?
In conclusion, the comparison between the Vitamix A2300 and A3500 reveals a range of features and specifications that cater to different preferences and needs. Both blenders share a powerful 2.2 horsepower motor, a 64-ounce container, and similar control settings, such as variable speed dials, pulse buttons, and on/off toggles. They also belong to the Ascent series, offering smart features like a digital timer, wireless compatibility, and self-detect technology.
While the A2300 is rated at a more budget-friendly position and is lighter, the A3500 stands out with its enhanced design, touchscreen controls, and additional smart features, including five preset modes for specific blending tasks. The A3500’s self-cleaning technology provides added convenience, although the A2300 requires manual cleaning.
The choice between these models depends on individual priorities. If simplicity and budget are crucial, the A2300 may be a suitable option. On the other hand, if advanced controls, preset modes, and touchscreen features are desirable, the A3500 offers a more comprehensive package. Ultimately, both blenders come with a 10-year warranty, ensuring long-term durability and reliability for your blending needs.
