Comparison: Best Food Processor Vitamix (Updated | Dec 11th)
Are you torn between investing in a Vitamix blender or a dedicated food processor? You’re not alone in this kitchen conundrum. While Vitamix has dominated the blending world with its powerhouse performance, many home cooks wonder if it can truly replace a food processor’s versatility. We’ve put both appliances through their paces, chopping, pureeing, and everything in between.
Editor’s Choice
Best for a specific purpose
- Best for vitamix blender upgrade: Vitamix 12-Cup Food Processor Attachment with SELF-DETECT
- Best for best blender system: Vitamix Ascent X2 SmartPrep Kitchen System
- Best for gourmet prep system: Vitamix Ascent X4 Gourmet SmartPrep Kitchen System
- Best for powerful all-in-one: Ninja | All-in-One Blender and Food Processor | Best for Smoothies
- Best for auto-iq food prep: Ninja Food Processor
- Best for classic kitchen workhorse: Cuisinart Food Processor
- Best for xl capacity processor: Ninja Food Processor
- Best for compact immersion prep: Vitamix Immersion Blender Mini-Chopper Attachment
- Best for precision sous chef: Breville BFP810 Sous Chef 16 Cup Food Processor
- Best for ultimate blender programs: Vitamix Ascent X5 Blender with 10 Blending Programs
Product Comparison: Best Food Processor Vitamix
Vitamix Blender Upgrade
Vitamix 12-Cup Food Processor Attachment with SELF-DETECT, BPA-Free, with Multi-Use Blade and Two Reversible Discs, Compatible with Ascent and Venturist Series Vitamix Blenders
Vitamix
- Included: 12-cup Food Processor Attachment with SELF-DETECT base, 12-cup work bowl, lid, two food pushers, one multi-use blade, two reversible slice/shred discs, and disc storage case
- 12-Cup Work Bowl: Large-capacity, full-feature Food Processor Attachment lets you go beyond blending to chop, mince, mix, shred, and slice ingredients, making food prep quick and easy
- Stack, Snap, and Go: To use, just stack the SELF-DETECT base, work bowl, and lid; then snap them together and start using—no complicated twist-lock mechanism to deal with for an easy-to-use kitchen appliance
- Compatibility: Compatible only with Ascent and Venturist Series Vitamix blenders
- SELF-DETECT Technology: Ascent and Venturist Series blenders automatically shut off the motor if the Food Processor Attachment is not safely assembled
- Easy to Clean: BPA-free Food Processor Attachment is dishwasher-safe (except the SELF-DETECT base) for easy cleaning
- Multi-Use Blade: Crafted from stainless steel, the multi-use blade easily takes the place of multiple kitchen tools and is ideal for mincing, finely chopping, mixing, and kneading dough
- Reversible Discs: Slice and shred with two reversible stainless-steel discs; one finely shreds and creates thin slices, while the other one coarsely shreds and creates thick slices, so you are ready to create any kind of chop you need
- Food Chutes and Pushers: With both small and large food chutes and pushers, this Food Processor Attachment is ready to handle almost any ingredient with ease
- Convenient Storage: Food Processor Attachment easily converts into a compact, self-contained storage mode with a Stack and Store Disc Case to keep sharp discs safely stored
Best Blender System
Vitamix Ascent X2 SmartPrep Kitchen System, Professional-Grade Blender, Stainless-Steel Blades, 12-Cup Food Processor Attachment, 48 Oz Blender Container, Black
Vitamix
- Included: Ascent X2 blender motor base, 48-ounce container, S2 low-profile tamper and holder, and 12-cup Food Processor Attachment with SELF-DETECT base, two food pushers, multi-use blade, 2 reversible slice/shred discs, and disc storage case
- Three Blending Programs + Self-Cleaning: Three automatic Blending Programs for Smoothies, Frozen Desserts, and Soups ensure consistent results; achieve precise textures with variable speed settings and Pulse Function; includes Self-Cleaning Program
- Premium Blending Features: This countertop blender features a digital timer that removes the guesswork with recipes you process manually, helping you achieve the perfect texture every time
- Pair with SELF-DETECT Containers: Build a customized blending system with additional containers and attachments; using this wireless technology, your blender base will recognize the container or attachment and automatically adjust settings and blend times
- 2.2 HP Motor: Equipped with a high-performance motor, this countertop blender lets you say goodbye to chunky smoothies and hello to effortless blends
- Precision Blades and Discs: Hardened stainless-steel blades and discs can power through fibrous produce and frozen fruit, crush ice and nuts, and much more, offering consistent blends for years
- 48-Ounce Container: The BPA-free, dishwasher-safe blending container is designed to create the iconic Vitamix Vortex; it’s a professional-grade blender for smoothies, juices, purées, sauces, soups, and more
- 12-Cup Food Processor Attachment: Large-capacity, full-feature Food Processor Attachment with SELF-DETECT base lets you go beyond blending to chop, mince, mix, shred, and slice ingredients; includes multi-use blade and two reversible slice/shred discs
- Convenient Storage: The food processor blender attachment easily converts into a compact, self-contained storage mode with a Stack and Store Disc Case to keep sharp discs safely stored
- Warranty: Vitamix offers a 10-Year Limited Warranty for the Ascent X2 and 3-Year Limited Warranty for the 12-Cup Food Processor Attachment
Gourmet Prep System
Vitamix Ascent X4 Gourmet SmartPrep Kitchen System, Professional-Grade Blender, Stainless-Steel Blades, 12-Cup Food Processor Attachment with 4 Discs, 48 Oz Blender Container, Black
Vitamix
- Included: Ascent X4 blender base, 48-ounce container, tamper and holder, recipe book, 12-cup Food Processor Attachment with SELF-DETECT base, Stack/Store Extender, 2 food pushers, multi-use blade, 2 slice/shred discs, julienne disc, veggie stick disc
- Five Blending Programs + Self-Cleaning: Five automatic Blending Programs for Smoothies, Frozen Desserts, Soups, Frozen Cocktails, and Dips & Spreads; achieve precise textures with variable speed settings and Pulse Function; with Self-Cleaning Program
- Premium Blending Features: With intuitive touch button controls, digital timer, and on-screen indicator to let you know when to use the tamper to keep thicker blends moving; 15-second extension button adds time when a blend needs a little longer to complete
- Pair with SELF-DETECT Containers: Build a customized blending system with additional containers and attachments; using this wireless technology, your blender base will recognize the container or attachment and automatically adjust settings and blend times
- 2.2 HP Motor: Equipped with a high-performance motor, this countertop blender lets you say goodbye to chunky smoothies and hello to effortless blends
- Precision Blades and Discs: Hardened stainless-steel blades and discs can power through fibrous produce and frozen fruit, crush ice and nuts, and much more, offering consistent blends for years
- 48-Ounce Container: The BPA-free, dishwasher-safe blending container is designed to create the iconic Vitamix Vortex; it’s a professional-grade blender for small to medium batches of smoothies, juices, purées, sauces, soups, and more
- 12-Cup Food Processor Attachment: Large-capacity, full-feature Food Processor Attachment with SELF-DETECT base lets you go beyond blending to chop, mince, mix, shred, and slice ingredients; includes multi-use blade and slicing/shredding discs
- Convenient Storage: The food processor blender attachment easily converts into a compact, self-contained storage mode with an additional Stack and Store Disc Case to keep sharp parts safely stored
- Warranty: Vitamix offers a 10-Year Limited Warranty for the Ascent X4 and 3-Year Limited Warranty for the 12-Cup Food Processor Attachment
Powerful All-in-One
Ninja | All-in-One Blender and Food Processor | Best for Smoothies, Cookie Dough, Salsas, Cole Slaw and More | BlendSense Intelligence for Perfectly Smooth Results | 1800 Watt | Black | TB401
Ninja
- 1800 PEAK WATT MOTOR BASE: Made for powering through the toughest of ingredients.
- BLENDSENSE: Ninja’s smartest technology that can automatically adjust speed and time for perfectly smooth results. Innovative dial informs the user what mode the blender is in for a truly user-friendly experience.
- 72-OZ. FULL-SIZE PITCHER: Great for making large batches of smoothies and frozen drinks for the whole family.
- 64-OZ. POWER FOOD PROCESSOR BOWL: Use with the single-touch programs for even chopping, smooth purees, and processing up to 2 lbs. of dough. Included feed chute lid & pusher make adding ingredients both simple and safe.
- SLICING & SHREDDING DISC: Slice and prep veggies, cheese, and more with ease.
- VARIABLE SPEED: Allows for complete manual control of (10) different speed settings*. *Only in Full-Sized Pitcher
- 24 oz. SINGLE-SERVE CUP: Enjoy your favorite blended drinks in the single-serve cup with spout lid for on-the-go convenience.
- LIQUID DETECT: Alerts you when liquid is needed*. *only in Single Serve Cup.
- DISHWASHER SAFE: Containers, lids, and blades are all top-rack dishwasher safe.
- WHAT’S INCLUDED: 1800 PW Motor Base, 72 oz. Pitcher, 64 oz. Food Processor Bowl with Feed Chute Lid, Total Crushing and Chopping Blade Assembly, 24 oz. Single-Serve Cup & Lid, Hybrid Edge Blade, Chopping Blade, Dough Blade, Slicing/Shredding Disc.
Auto-IQ Food Prep
Ninja Food Processor, Professional Plus, 1000 Peak Watts, 4 Functions for Chopping, Slicing, Purees & Dough with 9-Cup Processor Bowl, 3 Blades, Food Chute & Pusher, Silver, BN601
Ninja
- POWERFUL PERFORMANCE: Equipped with a 1000-peak-watt motor, this Ninja food processor effortlessly handles tough ingredients, ensuring smooth and consistent results every time.
- AUTO-IQ TECHNOLOGY: Features 4 Auto-iQ intelligent preset programs that take the guesswork out of food prep, providing one-touch control for chopping, slicing, pureeing, and dough making.
- LARGE CAPACITY: The 9-cup bowl is perfect for large batches, making it ideal for family meals, entertaining, or weekly meal prep, saving you time and effort in the kitchen.
- PRECISION BLADES: Includes stainless steel precision blades designed for optimal performance, ensuring even chopping, slicing, and pureeing of all your ingredients.
- DOUGH BLADE INCLUDED: Comes with a specialized dough blade that makes mixing dough for bread, pizza, and pastries a breeze, delivering professional-quality results at home.
- EASY TO CLEAN: All removable parts are BPA-free and dishwasher safe, making cleanup quick and hassle-free, so you can spend more time enjoying your culinary creations.
- MODERN DESIGN: Sleek silver finish and compact design fit seamlessly into any kitchen decor, while the sturdy construction ensures long-lasting durability and performance.
- USER-FRIENDLY: Intuitive controls and easy assembly make this food processor accessible for all skill levels, from novice cooks to experienced chefs, enhancing your cooking experience.
- SAFETY FEATURES: Built-in safety mechanisms ensure the processor operates only when properly assembled, providing peace of mind during use and preventing accidents.
- VERSATILE FUNCTIONALITY: Perfect for a wide range of tasks including chopping vegetables, slicing fruits, pureeing hummus, and mixing dough, making it an essential tool for any kitchen.
Classic Kitchen Workhorse
Cuisinart Food Processor, 14-Cup Vegetable Food Chopper for Mincing, Dicing, Shredding, Puree & Kneading Dough, 720-Watt Motor, Stainless Steel, DFP-14BCNY
Cuisinart
- SUPERIOR FUNCTION: The Cuisinart Food Processor with 720-watt motor functions as a vegetable chopper, blender, and food processer in one. Make any kind of dip, puree soup, or sauce including hummus, salsa, guacamole, and more.
- MUST-HAVE FEATURES: The 14-cup food chopper has “on” and “off/pulse” buttons with an extra-large feed tube with bowl sleeve assembly designed for both small and large feed tube pushers. It also comes with a detachable disc stem for easy clean up.
- INCLUDED ACCESSORIES: This food processor comes with dishwasher-safe parts including a stainless steel standard slicing disc (4mm), medium shredding disc, and stainless steel chopping/mixing blade.
- NOTE TO CONSUMER: The shredding and slicing blades of this electric chopper are not adjustable. Please refer to the manual before setting up.
- LIMITED 3-YEAR WARRANTY: The Cuisinart Food Processor comes with a limited 3-year warranty on the entire unit and a full 5-year warranty on the motor.
XL Capacity Processor
Ninja Food Processor, Professional XL, 1200 Peak-Watts, 4-in-1, Chopping, Slicing/Shredding, Purees, Dough, 12-Cup Processor Bowl, 2 Blades & 2 Discs, Feed Chute/Pusher, Black, NF701
Ninja
- MOST POWERFUL: With a 1200-peak-watt motor, this Ninja food processor powers through tough ingredients, making it the best of Ninja food processing.
- VERSATILE PROGRAMS: Featuring 4 Auto-iQ preset programs, this kitchen appliance removes the guesswork, making it easy to chop, slice, shred, puree, and mix dough.
- NINJA BLADE TECHNOLOGY: Experience uniform processing and evenly mixed dough with Ninja’s innovative blade technology, perfect for any kitchen task.
- LARGE FEED CHUTE: The XL feed chute with a 3-part pusher easily accommodates any size ingredient, reducing prep time and making it an ideal vegetable chopper.
- REVERSIBLE SHREDDING DISC: Achieve fine or coarse results with the reversible shredding disc, making it a versatile food processor and chopper for all your needs.
- FAMILY-SIZED CAPACITY: The 12-cup precision processing bowl is extra-large, perfect for families and entertaining guests.
- EASY TO CLEAN: Cleanup is a breeze with dishwasher-safe bowl, lid, discs, and blades, ensuring your food processor is always ready for the next use.
- QUICK ASSEMBLY: Easily swap discs and blades for new functions in seconds, making this food processor user-friendly and efficient for any kitchen task.
- DURABLE DESIGN: Built to last, this food processor is a reliable kitchen appliance that will serve you for years, making it a smart investment for any home cook.
- WHAT’S INCLUDED: 1200 peak watt motor base, 12-cup processing bowl, XL feed chute with 3-part pusher, chop/quad blade, dough blade, adjustable slicing disc, reversible shredding disc & 10-recipe inspiration guide.
Compact Immersion Prep
Vitamix Immersion Blender Mini-Chopper Attachment
Vitamix
- Long-Lasting Blades: High-performance stainless-steel blades quickly chop and puree ingredients to desired consistency
- BPA-free Container: 3-cup container allows easy monitoring and stores prepared ingredients
- Built-In Measuring: Features ounce and cup measurement markings on exterior
- Compatibility: Designed for use with Vitamix 5-Speed Immersion Blender only (sold separately)
- Easy Assembly: Attaches quickly and securely to blender wand
- Dishwasher Safe: Vitamix Immersion Blender Mini Chopper Attachment is dishwasher safe
- What’s in the Box: Container, Lid, Blade
Precision Sous Chef
Breville BFP810 Sous Chef 16 Cup Food Processor, Large, Brushed Stainless Steel
Breville
- The Breville Sous Chef 16 food processor is where precision and consistent size are the keys to beautiful presentation, even cooking and good taste; Create masterpiece meals in minutes with the 16 cup food processor large enough for your cooking goals
- RECIPES FOR HOME AND KITCHEN: Breville+ opens a world of instant mastery with over 1000 guided recipes, live and on-demand classes, cook guides, and more; Recipes from leading food content experts, tested and tuned exclusively for your Breville appliance
- THE CHEF’S ARMORY OF PRECISION: Slice, shred, French fry, mince and purée with your very own chef’s armory; Includes a 24 size adjustable slicer, reversible shredding disk, French fries disk, micro-serrated S-blade, dough blade and mini blade & bowl
- EXTRA LARGE 5.5 INCH FEED CHUTE: Food processor simplifies meal preparation; 3-in-1 feed chute designed to accommodate different shapes and sizes with precise results; Chute options range from 1.7 in to 5.5 in, reducing the need to pre-prep your food
- HEAVY DUTY INDUCTION MOTOR WITH 30 YEAR WARRANTY: Heavy duty induction motor has updated direct drive with a high torque 1450W motor to easily handle the toughest kitchen jobs; Large food processor will remain a favorite kitchen appliance for many years
- STAINLESS STEEL HUB: Precisely engineered and built for durability
- ULTRA-DURABLE BOWL WITHOUT BPA: Breville food processor’s updated bowl design withstands the common hits and falls that occur in every kitchen; 6 cup or 121 fl. oz capacity; Easy to assemble and dishwasher safe
- STORAGE CONTAINER: Compact food processor designed for practical use in large and small kitchens; Maximize your countertop space; Container houses all attachments and cleaning utensils conveniently when not in use
- INCLUDED ACCESSORIES: S Blade, Adjustable slicing deck, reversible shredder disk, dough blade, mini bowl, mini blade, french fries disk, mini spindle, and main spindle
- WARRANTY: 2 year limited product warranty & 30 year motor warranty
Ultimate Blender Programs
Vitamix Ascent X5 Blender with 10 Blending Programs, Self-Cleaning Program, Professional-Grade Blender for Smoothies, Soups and More, Stainless-Steel Blades, 48 Oz Container, Brushed Stainless
Vitamix
- Included: Ascent X5 blender motor base, 48-ounce container, S2 low-profile tamper, tamper holder, and recipe book; this kitchen blender container allows for small- to medium-capacity blends
- 10 Blending Programs: 10 automatic Blending Programs for Smoothies, Frozen Desserts, Soups, Frozen Cocktails, Dips & Spreads, Smoothie Bowl, Frappé, Nut Butters, Non-Dairy Milks, and Spice Grinding
- Self-Cleaning Program: Just add warm water, a drop of dish soap, and run the Self-Cleaning Program; the blender will clean itself in 60 seconds or less
- Premium Blending: Intuitive touch button controls on this countertop blender offer easy operation, plus the digital timer removes the guesswork with recipes you process manually with the variable speed settings: use Pulse Function for ice crushing
- Tamper Indicator: This modern blender features an on-screen tamper indicator to let you know when to use the tamper to keep thicker blends moving, making it easier than ever to create the perfect textures
- Add 15 Seconds: Easily extend any blending program time by 15 seconds, perfect for when your blend needs a little longer to complete
- Pair with SELF-DETECT Containers: Build a customized blending system with additional containers and attachments; using this wireless technology, your blender base will recognize the container or attachment and automatically adjust settings and blend times
- Stainless-Steel Blades: Laser-cut, stainless-steel blades can power through fibrous produce and frozen fruit, crush ice and nuts, and much more, offering consistent blends for years
- 48-Ounce Container: The BPA-free, dishwasher-safe blending container is designed to create the iconic Vitamix Vortex; it’s a professional-grade blender for smoothies, juices, purées, sauces, soups, and more, making hot and cold dishes in the container
- 10-Year Limited Warranty: Backed by Vitamix’s industry-leading warranty, Ascent X5 is designed to deliver reliable performance and peace of mind
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.com at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Buying Guide
FAQs
What’s the main difference between a Vitamix and a traditional food processor?
A Vitamix is a high-powered blender designed for liquids, smoothies, and creating ultra-smooth textures. A traditional food processor uses sharp blades for chopping, slicing, shredding, and making dough. While Vitamix can perform many food processing tasks, a dedicated processor often excels at precise, dry chopping.
Can a Vitamix really chop vegetables and make dough like a food processor?
Yes, Vitamix machines with variable speed and a pulse feature can effectively chop vegetables, but the texture is often finer than a food processor. They are also excellent at making dough and batters using the machine’s friction to mix and knead. For coarse, uniform chopping, a dedicated food processor still has an edge.
Which Vitamix model is best for food processing tasks?
Models with a wider, low-profile container and a pulse feature are ideal for food processing. The Vitamix Ascent or A3500 series with its 64-oz container and dedicated presets for things like Smoothies and Soups is a versatile choice. Look for packages that include a food processor attachment for the most dedicated functionality.
Is a Vitamix a good value compared to buying a separate blender and food processor?
A Vitamix offers excellent value by combining the functions of a high-end blender and a capable food processor into one powerful machine. This saves significant counter and storage space. While the initial investment is higher, its durability and versatility often make it more economical in the long run than buying two separate, high-quality appliances.
How do I clean a Vitamix after using it for food processing?
Cleaning is incredibly simple. Just add a drop of dish soap and warm water to the container, blend on high for 30-60 seconds, and rinse thoroughly. For sticky or oily residues, you can add a few lemon wedges or white vinegar to the cleaning cycle. This self-cleaning method is a major advantage over traditional food processors with multiple parts.
What features should I prioritize for food processing?
Prioritize a model with a variable speed dial and a pulse switch, as these give you maximum control over texture. A tamper is also essential for pushing thick ingredients down into the blades without stopping the machine. Finally, consider the container size; a wider container is better for processing dry ingredients.
Can I make nut butter or mill flour in a Vitamix?
Absolutely, this is where a Vitamix truly shines compared to most food processors. The powerful motor and high blade speed can pulverize nuts into smooth, creamy butter and grind whole grains into fresh flour in minutes. The friction from the blades even heats ingredients to make hot soups.
