Vitamix E310 Review From Daily Use After Months of Testing

The Vitamix E310 is worth buying if you want professional-grade blending power at an entry-level price of $299 to $379, with a 2-horsepower motor that crushes ice, makes hot soup, and blends smoothies in under 60 seconds. Many budget blenders quit after two years, leaving you frustrated with chunky smoothies and weak performance. This high-performance blender delivers commercial-grade results, lasts 10+ years, and comes with a 5-year warranty that proves Vitamix stands behind their quality. Here’s everything you need to know before you buy.

Hi there, I’m Yeasin from Mr Kitchen Adviser. Today, I want to share my honest experience with the Vitamix Explorian E310 after using it extensively in my own kitchen.

When I first considered buying a Vitamix, I was honestly a bit overwhelmed by the price tags. Premium blenders can cost well over $500, which made me wonder if I could find something more budget-friendly without sacrificing quality. That’s when I discovered the E310.

This blender is designed as an entry-level option for anyone who wants a Vitamix without paying a premium price. It delivers the reliability and power Vitamix is known for, with just a few concessions in terms of features and accessories.

In this review, I’ll walk you through everything I’ve learned about the E310. I’ll share what works brilliantly, what could be better, and whether this blender is the right choice for your kitchen.

The Vitamix Explorian E310 is a professional-grade blender made for home kitchen use. It sits in Vitamix’s entry-level Explorian Series, which means you get the brand’s legendary performance without all the bells and whistles of their premium models. If you’re looking for more blender reviews and comparisons, we cover various models on our site.

Think of it this way: if the Ascent Series is like a luxury car with a touchscreen and automatic features, the E310 is more like a reliable manual transmission vehicle. You have complete control, and it gets the job done beautifully.

The E310 is made in the USA and comes with Vitamix’s industry-leading warranty. It’s designed for first-time Vitamix buyers who want commercial-grade power for everyday blending tasks like smoothies, soups, nut butters, and frozen desserts.

What makes this blender special is how it brings together powerful motor performance with a simple, hands-on blending control interface. You won’t find preset programs or digital controls here, just pure blending capability.

Let me break down the key specs so you know exactly what you’re getting.

Motor & Power

• 2 horsepower motor (1,380 watts)
• Commercial-grade construction
• Radial cooling fan
• Thermal protection system (prevents overheating)

Container Details

• 48-ounce (1.4-liter) capacity
• BPA-free Tritan material
• Low-profile container (fits under most kitchen cabinets)
• Ergonomic handle
• Clear design so you can watch the vortex action

Blades & Performance

• Laser-cut stainless-steel blades
• Four-prong blade assembly
• Aircraft grade stainless steel
• Hardened for long-term durability
• Fixed blades (non-removable)

Controls

• Ten speed dial for variable speed control
• Manual dial operation
• On/off toggle switch
• Pulse feature switch
• No preset programs or digital display

Dimensions & Weight

• 11 inches deep x 8 inches wide x 18 inches high
• Weighs 10.5 pounds
• Compact countertop blender footprint

What’s Included

• Motor base
• 48-ounce blending jar
• Vented lid with lid plug
• Tamper tool
• Getting Started guide
• Recipe guide

Warranty & Support

• Five-year limited warranty
• Customer support quality backed by Vitamix
• Made in USA

One thing I really appreciate is how straightforward everything is. There’s no complicated setup or programming. You just place the jar on the base, and you’re ready to blend.

Now, let’s talk about what really matters: how well does this blender actually perform?

Smoothie Blending

When it comes to blending performance, the Explorian E310 handles itself extremely well. This remained true even when we compared it to more expensive blenders.

I tested it with tough, fibrous ingredients like kale, spinach, and celery. The results? Silky smooth every time. No chunks, no leafy bits stuck in your teeth. Just consistent blend texture that rivals blenders costing twice as much.

For frozen fruit smoothies, I threw in frozen bananas, strawberries, and mango chunks straight from the freezer. The E310 powered through without any struggling or overheating. The whole process took less than a minute.

Here’s something interesting I discovered: the 48-ounce container actually works better for single or double servings than larger jars. The narrower design creates better vortex blending action, pulling ingredients down toward the blades more efficiently.

Ice Crushing & Frozen Fruit Processing

Ice crushing performance is where many cheaper blenders fail. Not the E310.

I filled the container with ice cubes and used the pulse function. Within seconds, I had perfectly crushed ice, almost like snow. The tough ingredient handling capability is genuinely impressive.

For frozen desserts, I made what some people call “nice cream” using just frozen bananas. The tamper tool was essential here. I pushed the frozen chunks toward the blades while the motor ran, and within two minutes, I had a soft-serve texture that tasted amazing.

Hot Soup Blending

This feature blew my mind when I first tried it.

The E310 can make hot soup from scratch in about six minutes. How? Through friction heat. When you run the blender on high speed for several minutes, the blade friction actually heats the ingredients.

I tested this with a simple butternut squash soup. I added roasted squash, vegetable broth, garlic, and seasonings to the container. After running it on high for about six minutes, the soup was steaming hot and perfectly smooth.

The whole food blending capability means you can throw in raw vegetables and broth, and the blender will heat everything while creating a silky texture. It’s genuinely convenient for quick meals.

Nut Butter Making

Making nut butter is probably the toughest test for any blender.

I tried making almond butter using roasted almonds. At first, the nuts just bounced around. This is where the precision texture adjustment through variable speeds really shines.

I started on speed 1 to break down the nuts, then gradually increased to speed 8. Using the tamper tool, I pushed the almonds toward the blades. After about three minutes, the natural oils released, and the mixture transformed into creamy, smooth nut butter.

The E310 handled it without any strain. The motor stayed cool thanks to the radial cooling fan and thermal protection system.

Noise Level Analysis

Let’s be honest about something: this blender is loud.

During my testing, the E310 measured around 83.8 decibels on low speed and about 104.3 decibels on high speed. For comparison, that’s similar to a lawnmower or a motorcycle passing by.

The loud operation is the trade-off for high-power motor noise. There’s no sound enclosure like you’d find on commercial Vitamix models that cost over $1,000.

However, I’ve found the noise acceptable for performance. Most blending tasks only take 30 to 60 seconds, so it’s not like you’re dealing with the sound for extended periods.

If you live in an apartment with thin walls or you blend early in the morning, this might be something to consider. But if you want powerful, commercial-grade performance, some noise comes with the territory.

After months of regular use, here’s what I genuinely love about this blender.

Powerful, Professional-Grade Performance

At the heart of the E310 is a 1,380-watt motor capable of producing up to two horsepower. This gives it plenty of power and torque for demanding tasks.

What impressed me most is how it maintains consistent performance even with tough ingredients. Whether you’re blending fibrous kale or frozen mango chunks, the motor never bogs down or struggles.

The commercial-grade power means you’re getting the same motor technology found in professional kitchens, just in a more affordable package.

Simple, Intuitive Controls

I actually prefer the hands-on blending control over preset programs.

The manual dial operation gives you complete freedom. You can start slow to break down chunks, then gradually increase speed for a smoother finish. This precision texture adjustment is something you don’t get with automatic presets.

The right-hand switch powers the unit on and off, while the left-hand switch controls the pulse function. From my experience, the pulse setting is great for rough chopping or finishing blends to achieve an even, enjoyable texture.

It’s also worth mentioning that the dial controls the motor’s power output and offers ten speed settings. Each step increases blade speed and torque for smoother results. Higher speeds also generate more friction, which can be used to heat ingredients for hot soups or marinades.

Compact 48-oz Container

At first, I thought the smaller container might be a limitation. But in everyday use, I didn’t find this to be a drawback at all.

The 48-ounce container has a compact footprint that fits under kitchen cabinets. My kitchen has standard 18-inch cabinets, and the E310 slides right underneath with room to spare.

For smoothie blending machine tasks, the smaller size actually creates better vortex action. The ingredients circulate more efficiently, which means faster, more consistent blends.

The lightweight container is also easier to lift and pour. When you’re making hot soup, this really matters. You’re not wrestling with a heavy, awkward jar.

Easy Cleaning

Cleaning is equally impressive. The self-cleaning feature is a game changer.

Here’s how easy it is: add warm water and a drop of dish soap to the container. Run the blender on a high-speed setting for 30 to 60 seconds. Pour out the solution and rinse. Done.

No scrubbing. No brushing. No disassembly needed. This saves time and makes healthy eating more convenient for busy families.

All parts are also dishwasher safe if you prefer that method. The container, lid, lid plug, and tamper can all go in the top rack. However, some users report that regular dishwasher use can cause slight clouding over time.

For simple disassembly and low maintenance, the self-cleaning method works perfectly.

Exceptional Value for Money

When you consider how it compares to other premium blenders, the E310 represents excellent value.

The results it produces are consistently smooth, and it’s genuinely difficult to distinguish them from blends made in machines costing more than twice as much.

At $299.95 to $379.95, you’re getting a value-for-money premium blender with commercial-grade performance. Compare that to the Vitamix Ascent Series models that cost $400 to $600, and the savings are significant.

Yes, you’re giving up touchscreens and preset programs. But if you just want a powerful blender that makes incredible smoothies, soups, and nut butters, the E310 delivers without unnecessary complexity.

5-Year Warranty

The long warranty coverage gives real peace of mind.

Vitamix backs the E310 with a five-year limited warranty, which is way longer than most blender brands offer. This shows their confidence in the long-lasting motor and durable base construction.

Customer support quality is also excellent. I contacted them once with a question about accessories, and they were helpful and responsive.

The Vitamix brand reputation for reliability means this blender is built to last. Many users report their Vitamix blenders running strong after 10 or even 15 years. Vitamix’s official site notes that their blenders can last up to 10 times longer than average blenders. When you think about it that way, the initial investment becomes very reasonable.

To give you the complete picture, let me share what I don’t love about this blender.

Very Loud on High Speeds

I mentioned this earlier, but it’s worth repeating: this blender is genuinely loud.

At 104.3 decibels on high speed, it’s louder than most household appliances. If you’re noise-sensitive or you blend early in the morning before others wake up, this could be a problem.

There’s no sound enclosure or noise dampening features. The trade-off for strong motor at lower price is acceptable noise for performance, but it’s still something to consider.

One user on Reddit mentioned they only blend when their partner isn’t home because the noise is too much. That might sound extreme, but it gives you an idea of what to expect.

Small Container Capacity

The 48-ounce container works great for singles and couples. But if you’re making smoothies for a family of four or five, you’ll need to blend in batches.

Compared to the Vitamix 5200 or E320, which come with 64-ounce containers, the E310 has less capacity. This means more blending cycles for larger servings.

If you regularly make big batches of soup or smoothies for meal prep, the smaller container might feel limiting. However, you can purchase larger containers separately. They’re compatible with the E310 base.

Non-Removable Blades

The laser-cut stainless-steel blades are fixed in the container. You can’t remove them for cleaning.

Most of the time, the self-cleaning feature handles everything. But if you blend something sticky like dates or peanut butter, residue can get trapped around the blade assembly.

In those cases, you’ll need to use a long-handled brush to reach under the blades. It’s not a huge deal, but it requires a bit more effort than blenders with removable blades.

The upside is that fixed blades create better vortex action and are more durable. They’re less likely to develop leaks or worn gaskets over time.

Tight Lid Clips

This is a small but annoying issue.

The vented lid has two clips that secure it to the container. When the lid is new, these clips are extremely tight. I sometimes struggle to get the lid off, especially if my hands are wet.

One reviewer from the UK mentioned the lid clips as a real frustration. After months of use, they do loosen up slightly, but it’s still tighter than I’d prefer.

The secure fit is good for safety. It prevents spills and accidents. But there’s definitely a trade-off in convenience.

Container Can Shift at High Speed

When you run the blender at high speeds, especially with thick mixtures, the container sometimes shifts or vibrates on the base.

The first time this happened, I was honestly concerned something was wrong. But according to the manual and other users, it’s normal behavior. The powerful motor creates vibrations, and the container can move slightly.

You just need to keep a hand on the lid or the container when blending thick ingredients. It’s not a safety issue, just something that takes getting used to.

No Digital Display or Presets

If you’re used to modern blenders with touchscreens and automatic programs, the E310 will feel very basic.

There’s no “smoothie” button or “soup” setting. You control everything manually. For some people, this is actually a benefit because you have complete control. But if you want convenience and automation, this might feel like a step backward.

The manual control interface means you need to learn the right speed settings for different tasks. There’s a bit of a learning curve, especially if you’re new to high-performance blenders.

Expensive Replacement Parts

Here’s something that surprised me: replacement parts are pricey.

A new 48-ounce container costs around $75 to $95 in the USA. In the UK, replacement containers can cost £125 or more. If you crack or damage your container, it’s a significant expense.

Tamper tools, lids, and other accessories also add up. This is something to keep in mind for long-term budgeting.

However, the heavy-duty design and durable build quality mean you probably won’t need replacements often. The containers are made from impact-resistant Tritan material that’s designed to last for years.

E310 vs Ninja Blenders

Ninja blenders are popular because they’re budget-friendly. Models like the Ninja Professional or Ninja Mega Kitchen System cost $100 to $150.

Here’s the honest truth: Ninja blenders are decent for basic tasks, but they don’t match the E310’s performance.

Ninja uses stacked blades that chop rather than blend. This creates less vortex action and can leave chunks in smoothies. The motors are also less powerful and tend to wear out faster.

In terms of durability, Ninja blenders typically last 2 to 3 years with regular use. Vitamix blenders, including the E310, often last 10 years or more.

If your budget is tight, a Ninja might work. But if you want professional blender heritage and long-term reliability, the E310 is worth the investment. For more insights on different blender options and comparisons, check out our detailed reviews.

Think about cost per use. A $300 blender that lasts 10 years costs $30 per year. A $100 blender that lasts 3 years costs $33 per year and gives you inferior results.

E310 vs Blendtec

Blendtec is Vitamix’s main competitor in the premium blender market.

Blendtec blenders have powerful motors and preset programs. They use square containers instead of round ones, which some people prefer because they’re easier to scrape clean.

However, Blendtec blenders don’t come with tamper tools. This makes thick blends like nut butter more challenging. You have to stop and scrape down the sides manually.

Blendtec models are generally priced similarly to Vitamix. The choice often comes down to personal preference.

I prefer the E310 because the tamper gives you more control over thick blends. But Blendtec fans appreciate the jar design and the preset buttons.

When to Choose E310

Choose the E310 if:

• You’re buying your first Vitamix
• You primarily make smoothies for 1 to 2 people
• You want the lowest price point in the Vitamix lineup
• Cabinet clearance is important (it’s the most compact)
• You value simplicity over features

The E310 costs less and gives you everything essential. You’re not giving up motor power or build quality. You’re just getting a smaller container and no extra accessories.

For beginner-friendly high-performance blending, this is the sweet spot.

When to Choose E320

Choose the E320 if:

• You need the larger 64-ounce container
• You make big batches of smoothies or soups
• The extra $30 to $50 doesn’t strain your budget
• You want more flexibility for entertaining

The motor is identical to the E310. The only real difference is container size and the longer warranty if purchased at Costco (7 years vs 5 years).

If you’re torn between the two, think about your typical batch sizes. Do you usually blend for more than 2 people? If yes, get the E320.

When to Choose 5200

Choose the 5200 if:

• You want the “classic” Vitamix experience
• You prefer the wider container base
• You’ve heard great things about the 5200 from friends or family
• You can find it on sale at a good price

The 5200 has a cult following for good reason. It’s been the Vitamix workhorse for decades. The wider container makes it easier to scrape and pour.

However, it’s taller and doesn’t fit under standard cabinets as easily as the E310.

Performance-wise, all three models are nearly identical. You really can’t go wrong with any of them.

Let me share some of my favorite recipes that really showcase what this blender can do.

Creamy Green Smoothie

This is my go-to morning smoothie. It’s packed with nutrients and tastes amazing. For more healthy breakfast recipes, check out our collection.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup fresh spinach
• 1 frozen banana
• 1/2 cup frozen mango chunks
• 1 tablespoon almond butter
• 1 cup almond milk
• 1 teaspoon honey (optional)

Instructions:

1. Add the almond milk first (liquid goes in first for best results)
2. Add spinach
3. Add frozen fruit
4. Add almond butter on top
5. Start on speed 1, then quickly increase to speed 8
6. Blend for 30 to 45 seconds until smooth

The ingredient layering technique matters. Liquid first, then leafy greens, then soft ingredients, then frozen items on top. This creates the best vortex action.

Frozen Açaí Bowls

This is perfect for hot summer days.

Ingredients:

• 2 packets frozen açaí purée
• 1 frozen banana
• 1/2 cup frozen blueberries
• 1/4 cup apple juice or coconut water
• Toppings: granola, fresh fruit, coconut flakes, honey

Instructions:

1. Break up the frozen açaí packets
2. Add juice to container first
3. Add frozen açaí, banana, and blueberries
4. Start on speed 1, using the tamper immediately
5. Gradually increase to speed 8
6. Use tamper constantly to push ingredients down
7. Blend for 1 to 2 minutes until thick and creamy
8. Pour into bowls and add toppings

The result is a thick, soft-serve consistency. This is where the E310 really shines for frozen desserts.

Homemade Cashew Milk

Plant-based milk is surprisingly easy to make.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup raw cashews (soaked for 2 hours)
• 4 cups water
• 2 dates (pitted)
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Drain and rinse soaked cashews
2. Add all ingredients to container
3. Start on speed 1, gradually increase to speed 10
4. Blend for 1 to 2 minutes until completely smooth
5. Strain through a nut milk bag if desired (cashews blend so smooth you might not need to)
6. Store in refrigerator for up to 4 days

The vegan recipes possibilities with this blender are endless. You can make oat milk, almond milk, hemp milk, and more. For more plant-based recipe ideas, explore our healthy eating section.

Hummus

Smooth, creamy hummus in under two minutes.

Ingredients:

• 1 can chickpeas (drained, liquid reserved)
• 3 tablespoons tahini
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 clove garlic
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• Salt to taste
• 2 to 4 tablespoons reserved chickpea liquid

Instructions:

1. Add all ingredients except chickpea liquid
2. Start on speed 1
3. Gradually increase to speed 6
4. Use tamper to incorporate ingredients
5. Add reserved liquid slowly through the lid opening while blending
6. Blend until smooth and creamy (about 1 minute)

The dips and sauces you can make in this blender are restaurant-quality. Looking for more sauce and condiment recipes? We have plenty of options to explore.

Let me walk you through the basics so you get the best results every time.

Ingredient Preparation & Layering

This is more important than you might think.

Always add ingredients in this order:

1. Liquids first (water, milk, juice, broth)
2. Leafy greens or soft vegetables
3. Soft fruits or cooked ingredients
4. Hard vegetables or frozen items
5. Ice cubes last (if using)

Why does this matter? The liquid needs to reach the blades first to create the vortex. If you put frozen fruit at the bottom, it can create an air pocket and prevent blending.

Cut large items into 1 to 2 inch pieces. You don’t need to chop everything tiny, but massive chunks can slow things down.

Operating the Speed Dial

The ten speed dial gives you complete control.

For most recipes:

• Start on speed 1 or 2 (low speed)
• Run for 3 to 5 seconds
• Gradually increase to your target speed
• Speed 8 to 10 for smoothies
• Speed 6 to 8 for thick blends
• Speed 3 to 5 for chunky salsas or chopping

Why start low? Starting on high speed can cause ingredients to splatter or create air pockets. Beginning slow pulls everything toward the blades, then you can ramp up for a smooth finish.

Using the Pulse Feature

The pulse function is perfect for specific tasks.

Use pulse for:

• Chopping vegetables for salsa
• Breaking up large chunks before blending
• Finishing a blend to incorporate stubborn pieces
• Crushing ice for cocktails

To pulse: flip the pulse switch while the blender is on. Release to stop. Repeat as needed.

Each pulse should be 1 to 2 seconds long. Short bursts give you more control than continuous blending.

Using the Tamper Correctly

The tamper tool is your best friend for thick blends.

Insert the tamper through the lid opening while the blender runs. Push it down toward the blades. The tamper is designed to stop before it reaches the blades, so don’t worry about damaging them.

Use circular motions. Push down, move in a circle, lift slightly, repeat. This keeps ingredients moving toward the blades.

You’ll know you need the tamper when:

• Ingredients are stuck on the sides
• The motor is running but nothing is blending
• You’re making thick mixtures like nut butter or frozen desserts

Blending Hot Liquids Safety

The E310 can blend hot ingredients, but you need to follow safety guidelines.

If you’re blending pre-heated liquids:

1. Remove the lid plug from the lid
2. Place a folded kitchen towel over the opening
3. Start on low speed and gradually increase
4. Never fill more than halfway when blending hot liquids

The steam needs somewhere to escape. If the lid is completely sealed, pressure can build up and cause the lid to pop off.

For soups made through friction heating, this isn’t as critical because you’re starting with cool ingredients. But it’s still good practice to remove the lid plug after a few minutes.

Taking care of your E310 is simple, and doing it right will extend its life.

Self-Clean Method

This is the fastest way to clean your blender.

Steps:

1. Fill the container halfway with warm water
2. Add 1 to 2 drops of dish soap
3. Secure the lid
4. Turn the blender on
5. Gradually increase to speed 10
6. Run for 30 to 60 seconds
7. Turn off and rinse thoroughly

This works for most everyday blends. The soapy water reaches every surface, and the spinning action scrubs the container and blades.

Hand Washing Tips

For stubborn residue, hand washing works better.

Use a long-handled bottle brush to reach under the blades. Scrub in circular motions to remove any stuck food.

For the lid, remove the lid plug and wash both pieces separately. Food can get trapped around the plug seal.

The tamper can go in the dishwasher or be hand washed with warm soapy water.

Dishwasher Safety Debate

All E310 parts are technically dishwasher safe. However, there’s ongoing debate about whether you should use the dishwasher regularly.

Some users report that dishwasher detergent can cause:

• Clouding on the container over time
• Water spots on the container (especially in hard water areas)
• Slight dulling of the clear plastic

If you do use the dishwasher, place everything on the top rack. Use a gentle cycle and avoid harsh detergents with bleach.

My recommendation? Use the self-clean method for daily cleaning and hand wash once a week for deeper cleaning.

Removing Dried or Stuck Food

If you let something dry in the container, don’t panic.

Fill the container with warm water and let it soak for 30 minutes. The dried food will soften.

For really stubborn spots, make a paste with baking soda and water. Use a non-abrasive sponge to scrub the affected area.

Never use steel wool or abrasive scrubbers. They’ll scratch the container and create more places for food to stick.

Deep Cleaning with Vinegar

Once a month, give your E310 a deep clean to remove any buildup.

Steps:

1. Fill the container halfway with warm water
2. Add 1 cup white vinegar
3. Blend on high speed for 30 seconds
4. Let sit for 4 hours or overnight
5. Pour out, rinse thoroughly
6. Run a self-clean cycle with dish soap

This removes mineral deposits, lingering odors, and any film that might have built up.

Maintenance Schedule

Here’s a simple schedule to keep your blender in top shape:

Daily (after each use):

• Self-clean or rinse immediately
• Wipe down the motor base with a damp cloth
• Dry the container and lid

Weekly:

• Hand wash the container and lid
• Clean under the blades with a brush
• Wipe the motor base with a slightly damp cloth

Monthly:

• Deep clean with vinegar solution
• Check the lid seal for wear
• Inspect the power cord

Yearly:

• Check all parts for cracks or damage
• Consider professional service if you use it heavily

The motor base should never be submerged in water. Just wipe the exterior with a damp cloth when needed.

Let me address the issues people encounter and how to fix them.

Container Shifting at High Speed

This is completely normal, but it can be alarming the first time it happens.

The powerful motor creates vibrations, especially with thick mixtures. The container might shift or “walk” on the base.

Solution:

• Keep one hand on the container or lid while blending
• Make sure the container is properly seated on the base
• Start on low speed and gradually increase
• For very thick mixtures, use the tamper to reduce strain on the motor

This isn’t a defect. It’s just how high-power blenders behave. Even expensive Vitamix models do this occasionally.

Lid Won’t Clip Properly

The lid clips are designed to be secure, but sometimes they’re too tight.

When the lid is brand new, the clips require significant force to snap into place. Some people struggle with this, especially if they have arthritis or weak grip strength.

Solution:

• Push down firmly on both sides simultaneously
• Use the palm of your hand rather than your fingers
• Over time, the clips will loosen slightly and become easier
• If it’s consistently difficult, contact Vitamix support

To remove a tight lid:

• Pull up on one clip while lifting the opposite side
• Don’t pull straight up; use a rocking motion
• If stuck, run hot water over the lid for 30 seconds to expand the plastic slightly

Blender Very Loud

Yes, the E310 is loud. This is not something you can fix, but you can mitigate it.

The noise comes from the powerful motor and the lack of sound insulation. At 104.3 decibels on high speed, it’s comparable to a motorcycle.

Mitigation strategies:

• Blend during daytime hours when noise is less disruptive
• Place a rubber mat under the blender to absorb some vibration
• Close kitchen doors to contain the sound
• Use lower speeds when possible (they’re quieter)
• Remember that most blends only take 30 to 60 seconds

If noise is a deal-breaker for you, consider the Vitamix Quiet One, but be prepared to pay over $1,000 for that model.

Container Clouding or Scratching

Over time, the clear plastic container can develop a cloudy appearance or fine scratches.

This is cosmetic, not functional. It doesn’t affect blending performance.

Causes:

• Dishwasher use (detergents can etch the plastic)
• Blending abrasive ingredients like coffee beans
• Hard water minerals
• Age and UV exposure

Prevention:

• Hand wash or use the self-clean method
• Avoid harsh dishwasher detergents
• Store away from direct sunlight
• Polish with baking soda paste occasionally

If cloudiness bothers you, you can purchase a new container. But honestly, once the blender is running, you can’t see the cloudiness anyway.

Ingredients Stick to Sides

This happens when blending thick mixtures or when there’s not enough liquid.

You’ll see ingredients climbing the walls of the container instead of being pulled into the vortex.

Solutions:

• Use the tamper to push ingredients toward the blades
• Stop the blender, remove the lid, and scrape down the sides with a spatula
• Add a small amount of liquid (1 to 2 tablespoons at a time)
• Start on lower speed to get things moving, then increase

For recipes like hummus or nut butter, stopping to scrape is normal. Don’t worry, you’re not doing anything wrong.

What If the Motor Stops?

If the motor suddenly stops running, don’t panic. The E310 has a thermal protection system.

When the motor gets too hot, it automatically shuts off to prevent damage. This usually happens if you’re blending very thick mixtures for extended periods.

What to do:

• Turn off the blender
• Unplug it from the outlet
• Let it cool for 20 to 30 minutes
• Check if the container was overloaded
• Once cool, the blender should work normally again

This is a safety feature, not a malfunction. It protects the motor from burning out.

If the motor stops frequently, you might be:

• Blending for too long without breaks
• Trying to blend quantities that are too thick
• Not using enough liquid in your recipes

Let me help you figure out if this blender is right for your situation.

Best for Singles & Couples

The 48-ounce container is perfectly sized for one or two people.

If you’re making morning smoothies for yourself or your partner, the E310 is ideal. You’re not dealing with a massive container that’s hard to clean or store.

Small batches actually blend better in this size container because the vortex action is stronger. Everything gets pulled into the blades more efficiently.

Best for Smoothie & Soup Enthusiasts

If your primary use cases are smoothies and soups, the E310 excels.

The smooth blending capability means no chunks or leafy bits in your drinks. The hot soup blending through friction heat is a game-changer for quick meals.

I use mine for smoothies every single morning and hot soups at least twice a week. For these purposes, it’s absolutely perfect.

Best for Budget-Conscious Upgraders

If you’re currently using a basic blender and want to upgrade without spending $500 or more, the E310 is your best option.

You get the Vitamix brand reputation and commercial-grade construction at an entry-level price. The quality difference compared to a $50 or $100 blender is night and day.

Think of it as an investment. A strong motor at lower price gives you professional results without the premium cost of advanced features you might not need.

Best for Small Kitchens & Apartments

The compact footprint makes this ideal for limited counter space.

At 11 inches deep x 8 inches wide x 18 inches high, it fits under most kitchen cabinets. You can leave it on the counter without it dominating the space.

If you live in an urban apartment where every inch matters, the E310 is easier to accommodate than larger models.

NOT Ideal For

Let me be honest about situations where the E310 might not be the best choice.

Large families: If you’re regularly making smoothies for 4 or more people, the 48-ounce container requires multiple batches. Consider the E320 with the 64-ounce container instead.

Quiet environments needed: If you work from home and blend during calls, or if you have sleeping babies, the loud operation will be problematic. The noise level is genuinely high.

Frequent food processing tasks: The E310 doesn’t have a food processor attachment. If you need to slice, dice, or shred vegetables regularly, you’ll still need a separate appliance.

Need for preset programs: If you want one-button convenience, the Ascent Series or other preset models make more sense. The E310 requires manual operation.

Let me answer the most common questions people ask about the E310.

Can the Vitamix E310 make hot soup?

Yes, absolutely. The E310 can heat soup from room temperature to steaming hot in about 6 minutes through friction heat. The high-speed blades create enough friction to raise the temperature. Just make sure to remove the lid plug so steam can escape.

How long does a Vitamix E310 last?

With proper care, the E310 can last 10 years or more. Many Vitamix owners report their blenders running strong after 15 to 20 years. The long-lasting motor and durable build quality make it one of the most reliable blenders available. The 5-year warranty is just the beginning of its lifespan.

Is the E310 dishwasher safe?

Yes, the container, lid, lid plug, and tamper are all dishwasher safe. However, many users prefer the self-cleaning method because dishwasher detergent can cause cloudiness over time. Never put the motor base in the dishwasher; just wipe it with a damp cloth.

Can I use E320 containers on an E310?

Yes, the E310 and E320 use the same motor base and drive socket. Any container from the C-Series or Explorian Series will fit. This means you can purchase a 64-ounce container separately if you decide you need more capacity later.

What’s included in the box?

The E310 comes with the motor base, 48-ounce container with lid, tamper tool, and a Getting Started guide with basic recipes. You don’t get a recipe book like older models, but Vitamix has extensive recipes on their website.

Does it come with recipes?

Yes, there’s a basic guide included, and Vitamix provides hundreds of free recipes on their website. You can filter by ingredient, meal type, or dietary restriction. The online recipe database is actually better than a printed book because it’s constantly updated.

How loud is the E310 compared to other blenders?

The E310 measures about 83.8 decibels on low speed and 104.3 decibels on high speed. This is similar to most high-performance blenders. A Ninja blender is slightly quieter (around 95 decibels), but Vitamix models without sound enclosures are all in the same range. The powerful motor naturally creates more noise.

After using the Explorian E310 extensively, I can confidently say it represents excellent value for anyone wanting professional-grade performance without premium pricing.

Here’s what really stands out: this blender does what it’s supposed to do, and it does it exceptionally well. It doesn’t feature a touchscreen interface or come with a large number of accessories, but what it does offer has been refined to near perfection.

The results it produces are consistently smooth, and it’s genuinely difficult to distinguish them from blends made in machines costing more than twice as much. When you consider how it compares to other premium blenders on the market, the E310 makes incredible sense.

Yes, it’s loud. Yes, the container is smaller than some competitors. Yes, you have to operate it manually without preset programs. But these trade-offs are minor compared to what you gain: reliable Vitamix performance, exceptional build quality, and a motor that will last for years.

The result is a versatile, enjoyable blending experience without unnecessary complexity. If you’re looking for a premium blender capable of producing high-quality soups, smoothies, dips, purées, and more, the Explorian E310 is a very cost-effective option.

For singles and couples who value whole food nutrition, for anyone upgrading from a basic blender, for people with small kitchens, this blender checks all the boxes. It’s an investment that pays for itself through years of daily use.

I genuinely love using my E310. It’s made healthy eating more convenient and enjoyable. Making morning smoothies takes less than two minutes from start to cleanup. Hot soups are ready in under seven minutes. And homemade nut butter, which used to seem impossible, is now something I make regularly.

Would I recommend it? Absolutely. The Vitamix Explorian E310 delivers on its promise of bringing professional-grade blending to home kitchens at an accessible price point. It’s not perfect, but it’s very, very good at what it does.

If you’re ready to take your blending seriously without spending $500 or more, the E310 is the smartest choice you can make. For more kitchen appliance reviews and helpful cooking tips, visit our blog regularly.