Speed. What's the difference between a standard and a high-speed blender?
Finer blending requires higher blade speeds. While high-speed blenders are substantially more expensive, they will blend much faster and present a smoother more consistent finished product than standard bar blenders.

BigTray recommends the Hamilton Beach 908 & Hamilton Beach 909 blenders. The 908 has a polycarbonate container and the 909 has a stainless steel container.

How do I know if I need a high-speed blender?
High-speeds are recommended for smoothie operations as well as high-volume, fast-paced bars where frozen drinks are a major part of the sales mix. Whatever size blender you purchase, be sure that it's efficient enough to accommodate your peak business.

For smoothie operations, BigTray recommends the Vita-Mix 748.

For fast-paced bars, BigTray recommends the Hamilton Beach Tempest 91555.

Size. What is the size range of blenders?
Bar blenders are generally specified by container size, which ranges from one quart to one gallon. Power on these units should fall between ½ -hp to 1-hp. Small- to medium-size operations should be fine with a smaller model.

Larger bars or chains will need at least a ½ -gal. container with a 1-hp to 2-hp motor. For nursing homes, hospitals and other similarly large facilities, the ½ -gal. and 1-gal. containers with 2-hp-3hp motors are most popular.