Vitamix E310 vs 5300: Which One Is Right for You?

A powerful blender can completely change how you prepare meals—whether you’re blending smoothies, making soups, or crushing ice for frozen drinks. If you’re considering Vitamix, you’ve probably come across the Vitamix E310 and Vitamix 5300, two well-regarded models with their own strengths and weaknesses.

But which one should you buy? The choice isn’t always obvious, especially when both models share similarities in design and functionality.

This detailed side-by-side comparison will break down everything—power, capacity, performance, ease of use, noise level, and value for money—so you can confidently decide which blender fits your kitchen and lifestyle.

Quick Comparison: Key Differences at a Glance

Let’s break things down fast. If you’re in a hurry and just want to know how the Vitamix E310 and Vitamix 5300 compare, this table sums up their biggest differences:

On paper, the 5300 has more power, a bigger container, and a longer warranty. The E310 is smaller, more affordable, and easier to store. But that’s just the overview—what really matters is how those differences affect your experience.

So, how do these specs translate into real-world use? That’s exactly what we’ll explore next.

Design & Build Quality: Which One Feels More Premium?

At first glance, both the Vitamix E310 and Vitamix 5300 have that rugged, industrial look Vitamix is known for. These aren’t sleek, futuristic blenders designed to sit pretty on your counter—they’re built for performance and durability. But when you take a closer look, their design differences impact usability in more ways than you might think.

Size & Storage: Which One Fits Your Kitchen Better?

• E310 (48 oz container): Compact and lightweight, making it easier to store in smaller kitchens. It’s also more manageable for single servings or small families.
• 5300 (64 oz low-profile container): A bigger, wider base means it takes up more counter space, but the low-profile design allows it to fit under standard kitchen cabinets—something older Vitamix models struggled with.

Storage takeaway: If you’re short on counter space or have a small kitchen, the E310 is the better fit. If you blend large batches often and have the space for it, the 5300’s bigger container is more convenient.

Materials & Build Durability

• Both models use BPA-free plastic containers that are durable and shatter-resistant.
• The base is made of heavy-duty plastic and metal, designed to withstand years of daily use.
• The E310 is slightly lighter, making it easier to move around compared to the heavier 5300.

Durability takeaway: Both blenders are built to last, but the 5300 feels slightly more premium due to its wider base and sturdier design.

Blade Size & Performance Impact

• E310: 3-inch stainless steel blades—smaller but still powerful.
• 5300: 4-inch stainless steel blades—covers more surface area, making it better for large batches and thick blends.

Blade takeaway: The 5300’s larger blade blends more efficiently, especially when handling thicker mixtures like nut butters or frozen desserts.

Final Thoughts on Design & Build

If you need a compact, easy-to-store blender, the E310 is the better choice. But if you want a more premium feel, a larger blending capacity, and a sturdier base, the 5300 wins this round.

Motor Power & Blending Performance: Which One Blends Better?

When it comes to blending power, the Vitamix E310 and Vitamix 5300 are both strong performers, but the 5300 has a slight edge due to its more powerful motor. Let’s break it down.

Motor Strength: More Power = Smoother Blends?

• E310: Comes with a 2.0 HP motor, which is strong enough for smoothies, soups, nut butters, and even crushing ice.
• 5300: Has a 2.2 HP motor, giving it a bit more power to handle tough ingredients faster and more efficiently.

At first glance, a 0.2 HP difference might not seem like much, but in real-world use, the 5300 has a slightly easier time blending thicker mixtures. If you’re working with frozen fruits, nut butters, or dough, the extra power makes a noticeable difference in speed and consistency.

Blade Speed & Performance Differences

• Both blenders have 10 variable speed settings and a Pulse function, giving you control over texture.
• The 5300’s larger 4-inch blades can process more food at once, making it more efficient for big batches.
• The E310’s smaller 3-inch blades require more blending time for larger or thicker recipes.

Performance takeaway: The 5300’s stronger motor and larger blades give it a smoother, faster blending experience, especially for big batches or tough ingredients. The E310 still delivers great results, but it might require longer blending times or extra tamping for thick recipes.

Final Thoughts on Blending Performance

If you’re making small batches or don’t mind blending a little longer, the E310 is powerful enough. But if you want faster, smoother results for large batches or dense ingredients, the 5300’s extra power and blade size make it the better choice.

Container Size & Capacity: How Much Can They Hold?

One of the biggest differences between the Vitamix E310 and Vitamix 5300 is their container size. This affects how much you can blend at once, how easy it is to store, and what types of recipes work best.

Container Size: Do You Need a Bigger or Smaller Blender?

• E310: Comes with a 48-ounce container—ideal for small to medium-sized servings.
• 5300: Features a 64-ounce low-profile container, making it better suited for large batches.

If you’re blending for one or two people, the E310’s 48-oz container is more than enough. But if you frequently prep for a family or like to batch blend, the 5300’s 64-oz capacity is a major advantage.

Shape & Usability: How Does It Affect Blending?

• The E310’s taller, narrower container helps with smaller portions, ensuring ingredients circulate well without getting stuck.
• The 5300’s low-profile, wider container allows for easier storage under kitchen cabinets and better blending of larger quantities but may require more scraping or tamping for smaller batches.

Storage takeaway: If you have limited counter space, the E310’s container is easier to store. If you need to blend large portions often, the 5300’s wider container saves time and effort.

Can You Swap Containers?

Yes! Vitamix containers are interchangeable with most models, meaning you could buy a smaller or larger container separately if needed. However, out of the box, the 5300 offers more versatility for bigger recipes, while the E310 is optimized for everyday personal use.

Final Thoughts on Capacity

If you mostly blend for yourself or a small household, the E310’s 48-ounce container is the perfect size. But if you need to make bigger batches regularly, the 5300’s 64-ounce container is the better option.

Blending Features & Controls: Do They Work the Same?

Both the Vitamix E310 and Vitamix 5300 feature simple, manual controls—no fancy digital screens or preset programs, just straightforward dials and switches that let you control the blending process. But while they look similar, there are slight differences in how they operate.

Speed Settings: How Much Control Do You Get?

• E310: Features 10 variable speed settings and a Pulse function.
• 5300: Also comes with 10 variable speeds and a Pulse feature.

Both blenders give you full control over texture, whether you want a smooth purée or a chunky salsa. The speed dial works the same way on both models, allowing you to adjust on the fly while blending.

Blending Efficiency: Does One Perform Better?

• The E310’s smaller 3-inch blades work best for small to medium portions, ensuring ingredients circulate well without getting stuck.
• The 5300’s larger 4-inch blades cover more surface area, making it more efficient for large batches and thicker blends like nut butter or frozen desserts.

While both blenders can handle a variety of recipes, the 5300 blends faster and more consistently for large portions, thanks to its stronger motor and wider blades.

Ease of Use: Any Learning Curve?

• Both models are easy to use—just turn the dial to adjust speed and use the Pulse function for quick bursts.
• The E310’s smaller container makes it easier to blend smaller quantities without ingredients sticking to the sides.
• The 5300’s wider base may require more scraping or tamping when making small batches.

Usability takeaway: If you primarily blend small portions, the E310’s container and blade design work better. If you need faster, more efficient blending for bigger recipes, the 5300 is the better choice.

Final Thoughts on Features & Controls

Both models offer the same level of control, but the 5300’s larger blades and stronger motor make it more efficient for big batches. The E310 is easier to manage for smaller portions, making it a better choice for personal use or small households.

Noise Level: Which One Runs Quieter?

Blenders this powerful aren’t exactly whisper-quiet, and both the Vitamix E310 and Vitamix 5300 produce a fair amount of noise. However, one is slightly louder than the other, which can be a factor if you’re blending early in the morning or late at night.

Decibel Levels: How Loud Are They?

• E310: Averages around 85–90 decibels at high speed—about as loud as a vacuum cleaner.
• 5300: Averages 90–95 decibels due to its more powerful motor, making it slightly noisier.

While both blenders are on the louder side, the 5300’s 2.2 HP motor produces more noise, especially when blending thick ingredients.

Ways to Reduce Blender Noise

If noise is a concern, here are a few tricks to make blending less disruptive:

• Place a rubber mat or towel under the blender to absorb vibrations.
• Use a lower speed setting when possible, then gradually increase.
• Move the blender away from walls to prevent sound from bouncing.

Noise takeaway: The E310 is slightly quieter, but if you’re already used to high-powered blenders, the difference isn’t drastic. If noise is a major concern, neither of these will be “silent,” but the E310 is the better choice for a slightly quieter blending experience.

Final Thoughts on Noise Level

If you prefer a quieter blender, the E310 has a small advantage. But if performance matters more than noise, the 5300’s extra power might be worth the trade-off.

Ease of Cleaning: Which One is Easier to Maintain?

Cleaning a blender can be a hassle, but both the Vitamix E310 and Vitamix 5300 make the process fairly simple. They don’t have dishwasher-safe containers, but self-cleaning is quick and effective.

Self-Cleaning Process: How Does It Work?

Both blenders use the same cleaning method:

1. Fill the container halfway with warm water.
2. Add a few drops of dish soap.
3. Blend on high for 30–60 seconds.
4. Rinse with clean water and air dry.

This method removes most food residue without scrubbing.

Container Shape & Cleaning Ease

• E310: The narrower container makes it easier to clean smaller amounts of liquid, but you may need to reach inside for stubborn residue.
• 5300: The wider, low-profile container is easier to clean when dealing with large batches, but food can get stuck under the blades.

Blade & Base Maintenance

• The blades are not removable, but they are stainless steel, meaning they resist rust and staining.
• The base can be wiped clean with a damp cloth to prevent buildup.

Cleaning takeaway: The 5300’s wider container is easier to clean for large batches, while the E310’s smaller size makes it easier to rinse quickly.

Final Thoughts on Cleaning

Both blenders are easy to maintain, but the 5300’s wider design makes cleaning larger batches easier, while the E310 is slightly easier to rinse for everyday use. Either way, self-cleaning takes less than a minute.

Durability & Warranty: Which One Lasts Longer?

Vitamix is known for exceptional durability, and both the E310 and 5300 are built to last. However, motor strength, materials, and warranty coverage can affect how long each model stays in top shape.

Build Quality: Are They Equally Durable?

Both blenders have:

• Heavy-duty BPA-free plastic containers that resist cracking.
• Hardened stainless steel blades that stay sharp over time.
• Metal drive systems instead of plastic, ensuring long-term durability.

While both are solidly built, the 5300’s motor runs hotter due to its extra power, which may result in slightly more wear over time.

Motor Longevity: Does One Last Longer?

• E310: The 2.0 HP motor is powerful yet slightly less taxing on internal components, potentially extending its lifespan.
• 5300: The 2.2 HP motor runs hotter, which can cause more strain over time if frequently blending heavy loads.

If you use your blender daily for tough blends (like nut butter or frozen ingredients), the E310 might hold up slightly better long-term, since it doesn’t push the motor as hard.

Warranty: What’s Covered?

• E310: Comes with a 5-year warranty.
• 5300: Includes a 7-year warranty.

Vitamix warranties cover repairs, replacements, and even shipping costs. The 5300 offers two extra years of coverage, which might be worth considering if you want long-term peace of mind.

Durability takeaway: Both blenders are built to last, but the E310 may experience less strain over time, while the 5300 has a longer warranty for added protection.

Final Thoughts on Durability & Warranty

If you want a blender that lasts for years, either model is a great investment. The E310 may have a slight edge in long-term motor health, while the 5300’s longer warranty gives extra security.

Price & Value: Which One Is Worth Your Money?

Both the Vitamix E310 and Vitamix 5300 are high-performance blenders, but their price difference may influence your decision. One offers a more budget-friendly entry into the Vitamix lineup, while the other provides more power and capacity for a slightly higher cost.

How Much Do They Cost?

• E310: Typically priced around $350–$400.
• 5300: Usually costs between $450–$500.

The 5300 is around $100 more expensive, but is the price difference justified? Let’s break it down.

What Are You Paying For?

The 5300’s extra cost covers a stronger motor, larger blades, a bigger container, and a longer warranty. If you need more blending power for large recipes, the price jump makes sense. But if you mostly blend for one or two people, the E310 offers excellent value at a lower price.

Which One Gives You the Best Value?

• Choose the E310 if you want an affordable Vitamix blender for smaller portions. It delivers premium blending at a lower cost without unnecessary extras.
• Choose the 5300 if you want more power, a larger container, and a longer warranty. The extra investment is worth it if you blend often for a family or make large batches.

Price takeaway: The E310 is the better value for individuals or small households, while the 5300 is worth the extra cost for those needing more power and capacity.

Final Thoughts on Price & Value

If budget is a priority, the E310 saves you money while still offering Vitamix quality. But if you want extra blending power and a larger container, the 5300 justifies its higher price.

Final Verdict: Which Blender Should You Choose?

By now, you have a clear picture of how the Vitamix E310 and Vitamix 5300 compare in terms of performance, capacity, ease of use, noise, durability, and value. But which one is the better choice for you?

Choose the Vitamix E310 if:

✅ You blend smaller portions and don’t need a large container.
✅ You want a more affordable Vitamix without sacrificing power.
✅ You prefer a slightly quieter blending experience.
✅ You want a compact design that fits in most kitchen cabinets.

Choose the Vitamix 5300 if:

✅ You need a larger 64 oz container for family-sized batches.
✅ You want more power for tough ingredients and smoother blends.
✅ You appreciate the longer 7-year warranty for extra protection.
✅ You don’t mind spending more for better efficiency.

Which One Is the Best Overall?

For individuals and small households, the E310 is the best value. It delivers premium Vitamix performance at a lower price and is easier to store.

For families or power users, the 5300 is the better long-term investment. The larger capacity, stronger motor, and longer warranty make it worth the extra cost if you blend frequently.

Final takeaway: If budget and compact size are your priorities, go for the E310. If power, capacity, and longevity matter most, the 5300 is worth it.

No matter which one you choose, you’re getting a high-quality blender that will last for years. Don’t wait—get the best blender for your needs today!