Introduction

Is there a big difference between the Vitamix 5200 and 5300?

Since these models are so close in model number is there a significant difference between these two blenders? 

In the box these blenders ship in you'll find, the respective Motor Base, a Classic 64-ounce Container (Vitamix 5200) or a Low-Profile 64-ounce Container (Vitamix 5300), Classic or Low-Profile Tamper and Getting Started Guide. The Vitamix 5200 also includes a Chef-inspired Cookbook and a Getting Started DVD. Even though both of these machines are Classic C-Series, the Vitamix 5300 is the only blender that uses a Low-Profile Container, which is commonly used on the newer Next-Generation G-Series models. Both of these machines are backed by Vitamix's Full 7-Year warranty with free two way shipping if you should need to use it. The Vitamix 5200 is older than the Vitamix 5300, but it doesn't mean it's not a good machine. In this comparison, let's find out if the upgrades to the Vitamix 5300 are worth the extra cost.

Container, Lid and Blades

Even though these are both C-Series blenders, they have 2 different containers that are not compatible with each other.

The containers are the easiest visual difference to spot between these two blenders. Although they are both from the same Classic C-Series of machines, the Vitamix 5200 uses the Classic Container while the 5300 uses the Low-Profile container. The Low-Profile Container is usually only found on the Next-Generation G-Series making this the only blender from a different series to use it. This is helpful to keep in mind if you have low hanging cabinets and would like to be able to add ingredients to the container or use the tamper while the machine is running.

The Blades are made from hardened stainless steel and are dull to the touch. The perk of having the 'dull' blades is ensuring a consistent blend that relies on tough blades and brute motor strength instead of razor-sharp blades.

Motor Base, Power and Interface

The Vitamix 5300 features an upgraded motor from the 5200, but it's a little louder.

Both machines have the Classic C-Series housing. The 5300 has an upgraded motor that produces 2.2 horsepower making it slightly more powerful than the 5200 which generates an even 2. Keep in mind they are both in similar housing which means the same noise dampening, making the 5300 louder than the 5200. It's not a noticeable difference side-by-side but it's worth noting.

The 5200 has a "high" feature that the 5300 lacks, but they both have a Pulse function, Variable Speek Knob ranging from 1-10 and an on/off toggle. The interface of these two machines is as simple as it gets. However, if you'd like to have a Vitamix that features presets, check out the Vitamix 6300 from the Classic Series or the Vitamix Pro 750 from the Next-Generation Series!

Additional Notes

Cleaning Up

The clean setting is useful, but do still give it a quick manual scrub.

Both of these Vitamix machines are able to "clean themselves", by adding warm water and a small amount of dish soap to the container and turning the machine to low then gradually increasing the speed until the container is clean. Some Vitamixes have a "Self-Cleaning" preset that makes this easier, but I'd still advise giving it a quick scrub with a sponge. While running this preset or running the machine is a good way to break up large leftover contents in the container, it also could lead to the container becoming cloudy from minerals latching to the side of the container over time. The best way to prevent this, is to simply use a sponge and clean the inside of the container like you would anything else.