I'd say that the Vitamix has pros and cons. I had my Vitamix for approx. 2 years. It is powerful but I have been having doubts about my purchase. At the time of purchase, I was also considering the Blendec. I typically use it to make smoothies. I don't like using it to blend dense or oily substances because they are hard to get out and difficult to clean. So in spite of the advertised ways that the Vitamix can be used, the structure of the container and the 4 prong blade limits the things that can be made with the blender. Adding a drop or two of detergent to clean it after adding oily substances to the blender doesn't suffice. In terms of aesthetics, the blender is bulky and looks rather old-fashioned compared to the Blendtec. In addition, the Vitamix is tall so it doesn't fit underneath my cabinets (this wasn't a problem when I brought it until I moved). Today, I noticed gunk beneath the blades, which considering the position would be difficult to clean. Blending detergent with water doesn't help. Overall, I really wished I purchased the Blendtec instead of the Vitamix even through it was noted that it is a quality machine, lasts many years and quality customer service. In addition, a plus of the Blendtec is that it can blend grains whereas with the Vitamix, you have to buy a separate container.