If you’re eyeing the Cuisinart Smart Stick variable speed hand blender, you want to know whether this popular immersion blender actually delivers, because it shows up on nearly every budget hand-blender list. The short answer: yes, for the price, it’s a genuinely capable immersion blender with a 300-watt motor and smooth variable speed that purees soup right in the pot. Here’s what it does, whether it’s worth it, and which version to pick.
What the Smart Stick Actually Is
The Cuisinart Smart Stick variable speed hand blender (model CSB-179) is an immersion (stick) blender: a handheld wand with a blending blade at the bottom that you submerge directly into a pot, bowl, or beaker. Its defining feature versus the cheaper two-speed Smart Stick (CSB-175) is the variable-speed dial, which lets you ramp smoothly from low to high rather than picking between just two presets, useful for starting slow to avoid splatter then powering up. It’s driven by a 300-watt DC motor that Cuisinart says delivers power with minimal noise, and owner reports back this up: it has enough torque to puree tomato soup right in the pot without bogging down. The variable-speed kit typically includes a whisk attachment for cream and eggs and a chopper/processor bowl for small chopping jobs, turning it into a 3-in-1 tool. It blends soups, smoothies, baby food, and sauces, with far less cleanup than hauling out a countertop blender.
Is the Smart Stick Worth It?
Here’s the honest picture. The Cuisinart Smart Stick is worth it as a value immersion blender: the 300-watt motor genuinely handles the core jobs, pureeing soup in the pot, blending smoothies, making baby food, and the variable-speed control gives you finesse that two-speed budget models lack. The included whisk and chopper attachments add real versatility for the price. Owners consistently praise it as a capable, affordable workhorse. The honest caveats: it’s not as refined as premium immersion blenders like the Braun MultiQuick (which has flexing-blade tech and even smoother control), and for very heavy or continuous blending, a higher-wattage model has more headroom. But for typical home use, soups, sauces, the occasional smoothie, the Smart Stick does everything most people need at a fraction of the premium price. The choice between it and the cheaper two-speed CSB-175 comes down to whether you want the finer variable-speed control. For the premium comparison, see our best immersion blender guide.
What to Look For When Buying
Variable vs. two-speed: The CSB-179 (variable) ramps smoothly from low to high for finer control; the cheaper CSB-175 has just two speeds. Choose variable if you want to start slow and avoid splatter. Motor power: The 300-watt motor handles soups, smoothies, and baby food; for very heavy daily blending, a higher-wattage model has more headroom. Attachments: The whisk (for cream and eggs) and chopper bowl (for small chopping) turn it into a 3-in-1; confirm your kit includes the ones you want. Comfort and noise: The DC motor is quieter than many; the grip matters for blending big batches. Beaker: A tall, narrow blending cup (often included) prevents splatter better than a wide bowl.
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Deeper Dive: Our Top Picks
Our Top Picks
Cuisinart
Variable Speed Immersion Blending Made Easy: Cuisinart CSB-179 Smart Stick Hand Blender with Chopper and Whisk
The Cuisinart CSB-179 delivers 300 watts of variable-speed power through an 8-inch stainless steel shaft, handling everything from smooth soups to emulsified dressings without switching appliances. Home cooks who want one stick blender that also chops, whisks, and measures will get the most value from this set.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Variable speed control via a slide gives practical texture precision that single-speed blenders cannot match for tasks like chunky salsa versus silky bisque.
- The four-piece accessory set (chopper, whisk, blending shaft, measuring cup) covers a wide range of prep tasks without requiring additional purchases.
- The comfort-grip handle with a push-button lock reduces hand fatigue during longer blending sessions and prevents accidental activation.
- Stainless steel blending shaft resists staining and odor absorption, holding up better over time than plastic-shaft alternatives.
Cons
- At 300 watts, the motor may struggle with very dense mixtures like thick nut butters or frozen fruit blends that higher-wattage models handle more easily.
- The 3-cup chopper bowl is on the smaller side, so batch chopping for larger meals will require multiple rounds.
Cuisinart
Blend, Chop, Whisk in One Tool: Cuisinart Variable Speed Immersion Blender with Food Processor Attachment
This 400-watt immersion blender combines a variable speed blending shaft, 4-cup food processor, and full-size chef's whisk into a single compact system that handles slicing, shredding, chopping, mixing, and blending without switching appliances. Home cooks who want to reduce countertop clutter without sacrificing versatility will get the most value from this multi-attachment setup.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Three distinct attachments (blending shaft, food processor bowl, chef's whisk) replace multiple single-purpose tools in one 400-watt unit.
- The detachable blending shaft with stainless steel blade and blade guard simplifies both use and cleanup compared to fixed-blade designs.
- Variable speed control gives precise blending results across tasks ranging from smooth purees to coarsely chopped vegetables.
- The convenient storage bag means all components stay organized and accessible without dedicated drawer or cabinet space.
Cons
- The 4-cup processor bowl is sized for small to medium batches, so large-family meal prep or bulk cooking will require multiple runs.
- With zero published reviews at this time, real-world long-term durability data is not yet available to draw from.
Cuisinart
Smart Stick CSB-175 Hand Blender for Soups
This 300-watt immersion blender purées hot soup directly in the pot and blends smoothies in seconds with a two-speed slide control and 8-inch stainless steel shaft. Home cooks who want to skip the cleanup of a full-size blender and need a tool that handles both cold drinks and hot soups should consider this model.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Motor delivers consistent power for both hot soup puree and frozen fruit smoothies without overheating.
- Shaft length prevents splatter when blending in deep pots, a common complaint with shorter immersion blenders.
- Simple two-speed slide switch is easier to operate mid-blend than buttons, especially when your other hand is holding the pot.
Cons
- No chopper or whisk attachments included with this model, though Cuisinart sells them separately for the same shaft system.
- Corded design limits reach if your nearest outlet is far from the counter or stove.
Turelar
1100W Immersion Blender for Soup and Baby Food - Turelar 5-in-1 Hand Blender with Variable Speed Trigger
This 1100W immersion blender delivers restaurant-smooth purees in seconds with a trigger-controlled variable speed system that prevents splattering. Best for home cooks who make soups, baby food, and smoothies regularly and want professional results without pulling out a full-size blender.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Powerful 1100W motor handles tough vegetables and creates silky purees without straining or overheating during normal use.
- Intuitive trigger control gives instant speed adjustment mid-blend, making it easier to control texture than fixed-speed models.
- Five attachments cover blending, chopping, whisking, and frothing, replacing multiple single-purpose kitchen tools.
Cons
- Cannot handle large ice blocks or whole frozen fruit without risk of motor damage, limiting smoothie-making to small ice cubes or thawed ingredients.
- White connection point requires careful handling and must stay dry, as damage from idle running or moisture exposure is not uncommon according to the FAQ.
Immersion Blender for Soup & Smoothies: Braun MultiQuick 7 MQ7035 with ACTIVEBlade Technology
The Braun MultiQuick 7 uses ACTIVEBlade technology with a flexible shaft that moves up and down, delivering 250% more active cutting surface than older models for smoother soups and purees. Home cooks who blend directly in pots and want variable speed control with one hand should consider this 500-watt system with included chopper and whisk attachments.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- ACTIVEBlade technology with up-and-down motion creates smoother textures than fixed-blade immersion blenders, especially noticeable in soups and sauces.
- America's Test Kitchen recommends the ergonomic grip and trigger-style button placement for comfortable single-handed operation during long blending sessions.
- The included 20-ounce beaker, whisk, and 2-cup chopper give you multiple prep tools in one purchase at this price point.
Cons
- The 500-watt motor handles most kitchen tasks but may struggle with very thick nut butters or large batches of frozen ingredients compared to 700-watt models.
- The corded design limits your range to countertop outlets, which can be inconvenient if you blend at the stove frequently.
Editors' Picks
Cuisinart Variable Speed Immersion Blending Made Easy: Cuisinart CSB-179 Smart Stick Hand Blender with Chopper and Whisk
Cuisinart
Variable Speed Immersion Blending Made Easy: Cuisinart CSB-179 Smart Stick Hand Blender with Chopper and Whisk
The Cuisinart CSB-179 delivers 300 watts of variable-speed power through an 8-inch stainless steel shaft, handling everything from smooth soups to emulsified dressings without switching appliances. Home cooks who want one stick blender that also chops, whisks, and measures will get the most value from this set.
$67.97 at AmazonEditors' Favorite
Color: Stainless Steel Size: 2019 Dimensions: 5.5 x 8.5 x 13 inches Weight: 3.30693393 pounds Product Group: Kitchen Binding: Kitchen
Shop NowCuisinart Blend, Chop, Whisk in One Tool: Cuisinart Variable Speed Immersion Blender with Food Processor Attachment
Cuisinart
Blend, Chop, Whisk in One Tool: Cuisinart Variable Speed Immersion Blender with Food Processor Attachment
This 400-watt immersion blender combines a variable speed blending shaft, 4-cup food processor, and full-size chef's whisk into a single compact system that handles slicing, shredding, chopping, mixing, and blending without switching appliances. Home cooks who want to reduce countertop clutter without sacrificing versatility will get the most value from this multi-attachment setup.
$76.90 at AmazonGreat Value
Color: Black Size: Large Dimensions: 3.8188976339 x 3.4251968469 x 3.4251968469 inches Weight: 4.63 pounds Product Group: Kitchen Binding: Kitchen
Shop NowCuisinart Smart Stick CSB-175 Hand Blender for Soups
Cuisinart
Smart Stick CSB-175 Hand Blender for Soups
This 300-watt immersion blender purées hot soup directly in the pot and blends smoothies in seconds with a two-speed slide control and 8-inch stainless steel shaft. Home cooks who want to skip the cleanup of a full-size blender and need a tool that handles both cold drinks and hot soups should consider this model.
$49.95 at AmazonBrand Name: Cuisinart Included Components: hand blender Recommended Uses For Product: Blending Warranty Description: Limited 3-year warranty UPC: 086279198143 Global Trade Identification Number: 10086279198140 Container Count: 1 Manufacturer: Cuisinart Part Number: CSB-175SVP1 Model Number: CSB-175SVP1 Item Type Name: Variable Speed Hand Blender Unit Count: 1.0 Count Best Sellers Rank: #1,414 in Kitchen & Dining (See Top 100 in Kitchen & Dining) #4 in Hand Blenders ASIN: B07BKLQR7R Customer Reviews: 4.5 4.5 out of 5 stars (2,777) 4.5 out of 5 stars Color: Silver Style: Two-Speed Other Special Features of the Product: Manual Power Source: dc Wattage: 300 watts Number of Speeds: 2 Voltage: 220 Volts Controls Type: Push Button Control Type: Manual Capacity: 1.5 Pounds Item Dimensions D x W x H: 4.88"D x 4.88"W x 15.62"H Item Weight: 2.45 Pounds Material: Stainless Steel Is the item dishwasher safe?: Yes Blade Material: Stainless Steel Container Material: Plastic Warranty Type: Limited 3-year warranty Brand: Cuisinart Special Feature: Manual Product Dimensions: 4.88"D x 4.88"W x 15.62"H
Shop NowTurelar 1100W Immersion Blender for Soup and Baby Food - Turelar 5-in-1 Hand Blender with Variable Speed Trigger
Turelar
1100W Immersion Blender for Soup and Baby Food - Turelar 5-in-1 Hand Blender with Variable Speed Trigger
This 1100W immersion blender delivers restaurant-smooth purees in seconds with a trigger-controlled variable speed system that prevents splattering. Best for home cooks who make soups, baby food, and smoothies regularly and want professional results without pulling out a full-size blender.
$35.97 at AmazonBrand Name: turelar Included Components: 1* Stick Blender, 1* Whisk, 1* Milk Frother, 600ml Mixing Beaker, 500ml Food Processor Recommended Uses For Product: Mixing, Whisking, Whipping, Blending, Chopping, Pureeing, Juicer, Milkshake, Ice cream, Warm Tips: 1. The immersion blender can be used to crush ice cubes, but can not work for too long. 2. The immersion blender cannot be used to crush frozen fruits or hard and large ice cubes. Warranty Description: Limited UPC: 716963722490 Container Count: 5 Manufacturer: turelar Part Number: 8808-HB Model Number: HB-8805 Item Type Name: Immersion Blender Hand Stick Blender Best Sellers Rank: #38 in Kitchen & Dining (See Top 100 in Kitchen & Dining) #1 in Hand Blenders ASIN: B0CPLVLFK2 Customer Reviews: 4.5 4.5 out of 5 stars (6,873) 4.5 out of 5 stars Color: Black Style: Black Warranty Type: 1 Year Limited Warranty Other Special Features of the Product: 5 Blender Set-Multiple Attachments, Infinitely Variable Speed, Blade Guard, Ergonomically-designed, UL approved, Portable and Compact, Removable Blade，Heavy-Duty Stainless Steel Power Source: Corded Electric Wattage: 1100 watts Number of Speeds: 5 Voltage: 120 Controls Type: Push Button Control Type: Manual Capacity: 500 Milliliters Item Dimensions D x W x H: 9.85"D x 5.42"W x 9.85"H Item Weight: 1.32 Kilograms Material: Nylon, Stainless Steel Material Type Free: BPA Free Is the item dishwasher safe?: Yes Blade Material: Stainless Steel Container Material: Glass Brand: turelar Special Feature: 5 Blender Set-Multiple Attachments, Infinitely Variable Speed, Blade Guard, Ergonomically-designed, UL approved, Portable and Compact, Removable Blade，Heavy-Duty Stainless Steel5 Blender Set-Multiple Attachments, Infinitely Variable Speed, Blade Guard, Ergonomically-designed, UL approved, Portable and Compact, Removable Blade，Heavy-Duty St… See more Product Dimensions: 9.85"D x 5.42"W x 9.85"H
Shop NowImmersion Blender for Soup & Smoothies: Braun MultiQuick 7 MQ7035 with ACTIVEBlade Technology
Immersion Blender for Soup & Smoothies: Braun MultiQuick 7 MQ7035 with ACTIVEBlade Technology
The Braun MultiQuick 7 uses ACTIVEBlade technology with a flexible shaft that moves up and down, delivering 250% more active cutting surface than older models for smoother soups and purees. Home cooks who blend directly in pots and want variable speed control with one hand should consider this 500-watt system with included chopper and whisk attachments.
$74.95 at AmazonBrand Name: Braun Included Components: 20Oz. Bpa Free Beaker, 2C Chopper, Activeblade Blending Wand, Blending Wand, Corded Hand Blender, Whisk Attachment Recommended Uses For Product: Blending, Whisking Global Trade Identification Number: 08021098774736 Manufacturer: Braun Part Number: MQ7035X Model Number: MQ7035 Unit Count: 1.0 Count Best Sellers Rank: #4,681 in Kitchen & Dining (See Top 100 in Kitchen & Dining) #12 in Hand Blenders ASIN: B085FRKBMF Customer Reviews: 4.6 4.6 out of 5 stars (3,548) 4.6 out of 5 stars Color: Stainless Steel / Black Style: MQ7035 Warranty Type: Full warranty Other Special Features of the Product: Adjustable Speed Control, Detachable Attachment, Ergonomic Handle, Multiple Attachments, Turbo Boost Power Source: Corded Electric Wattage: 500 watts Voltage: 120 Controls Type: Physical Control Type: Adjustable Capacity: 500 Milliliters Item Dimensions D x W x H: 2.68"D x 2.68"W x 15.35"H Item Weight: 1000 Grams Material: Plastic, Stainless Steel Material Type Free: BPA Free Is the item dishwasher safe?: Yes Blade Material: Stainless Steel Container Material: Plastic Brand: Braun Special Feature: Adjustable Speed Control, Detachable Attachment, Ergonomic Handle, Multiple Attachments, Turbo Boost Product Dimensions: 2.68"D x 2.68"W x 15.35"H
Shop NowAbout These Recommendations
The technique above is the point of this guide; the products are here because they help. We have not tested them ourselves — we did not buy or use this gear. The recommendations come from comparing specifications and materials against the patterns in verified owner reviews, so treat them as a shortlist worth researching rather than a verdict from our own kitchen.
Availability and prices change often, so check the current listing before buying. We earn a commission on purchases made through links on this page, which never affects what we recommend.
Quick Picks for Different Budgets
Here’s how the Smart Stick lines up against its siblings and a premium alternative so you can pick the right version.
The Pick: Cuisinart CSB-179 Smart Stick Variable Speed
The model this review is about and the best Smart Stick for most people. Its 300-watt motor purees soup in the pot without bogging down, and the variable-speed dial lets you ramp smoothly from low to high for splatter-free control, the key upgrade over the two-speed version. The kit includes chopper and whisk attachments, making it a 3-in-1 tool. For an affordable, versatile immersion blender that handles soups, smoothies, and baby food, this is the one to get.
With Food Processor: Cuisinart Variable Speed Immersion Blender Set
The most complete Smart Stick kit. This version pairs the variable-speed immersion blender with a larger food-processor attachment alongside the chopper and whisk, so you can blend, chop, and process in one set. The food-processor bowl handles bigger chopping jobs than the small chopper cup. For someone who wants maximum versatility from an immersion blender, blending plus genuine processing, this fuller set adds capability while keeping the core variable-speed blender’s strengths.
Budget Sibling: Cuisinart Smart Stick CSB-175 (Two-Speed)
The lower-cost Smart Stick for those who don’t need variable control. The CSB-175 has the same 300-watt motor and purees soups and smoothies well, but offers just two speeds (low and high) instead of the variable dial. It’s cheaper and perfectly capable for basic blending. Choose it over the CSB-179 if you’re happy with two speeds and want to save a few dollars; the blending power is the same, you just lose the finer speed control.
Power Upgrade: Turelar 5-in-1 1100W Hand Blender
The higher-wattage alternative for more power and attachments. This 1100-watt 5-in-1 set brings a variable-speed trigger and a full suite of attachments for soup, smoothies, and baby food, with notably more raw power than the Cuisinart’s 300 watts. It won’t have Cuisinart’s brand track record, but for someone who wants more blending muscle and a complete attachment kit at a similar or lower price, it’s a strong budget-forward alternative worth comparing.
Premium Upgrade: Braun MultiQuick 7 MQ7035
The refinement upgrade and tested-roundup champion. The Braun MultiQuick 7’s ACTIVEBlade technology (the shaft flexes as you blend) and ultra-smooth variable speed give it finesse the Cuisinart can’t match, especially for emulsifying mayonnaise and the silkiest purees. It costs more. Step up to the Braun if you blend often and want the best control and results; stick with the Cuisinart Smart Stick if you want strong everyday performance at a value price.
Getting Started
Getting the best from the Smart Stick is mostly about technique. Always fully submerge the blade head before turning it on, and start at the lowest speed (the variable dial makes this easy), then ramp up, this prevents the hot-soup splatter that’s the main hazard of immersion blending. Blend in a tall, narrow container like the included beaker rather than a wide bowl to contain splatter further, and tilt the blender slightly to circulate the food. For hot soup, let it cool a bit and keep the blade below the surface throughout, lifting it out only after you’ve stopped. Use the whisk attachment for whipping cream or eggs and the chopper for small amounts of onion, herbs, or nuts. Clean it immediately: the blending shaft usually rinses under the tap (don’t submerge the motor body), and the attachments are typically dishwasher safe. Stored dry, it’ll last for years of weeknight soups.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Cuisinart Smart Stick variable speed worth it over the two-speed?
If you want finer control, yes. The variable-speed CSB-179 ramps smoothly from low to high, letting you start slow to avoid splatter then power up, while the two-speed CSB-175 only offers low and high. Both share the same 300-watt motor and blend equally well. Pay a little more for the variable model if control matters; save with the two-speed if two presets are enough.
Is 300 watts enough power for an immersion blender?
For typical home use, yes. The Smart Stick’s 300-watt motor has enough torque to puree soup right in the pot, blend smoothies, and make baby food without bogging down, as owners confirm. Higher-wattage models (1000W+) have more headroom for very heavy or continuous blending, but for everyday soups and sauces, 300 watts handles the job well. Wattage isn’t everything, smooth control matters too.
What attachments come with the Cuisinart Smart Stick?
The variable-speed kit typically includes a whisk attachment (for whipping cream and eggs) and a chopper/processor bowl (for small chopping jobs like onions, herbs, and nuts), turning the blender into a 3-in-1 tool. A blending beaker is often included too. Exact contents vary by version, so check the specific listing, the food-processor set adds a larger processing bowl.
Can the Cuisinart Smart Stick blend hot soup?
Yes, that’s one of its main uses. You can puree soup directly in the pot, no need to transfer batches to a countertop blender. Keep the blade fully submerged and start on low to avoid splattering hot liquid, then ramp up. Let very hot soup cool slightly first for safety. The in-pot blending with easy cleanup is the immersion blender’s biggest advantage.
How do you clean the Cuisinart Smart Stick?
Rinse the blending shaft under running water right after use (it often comes off for easier washing), but never submerge the motor body, just wipe it. The whisk and chopper attachments are typically dishwasher safe. Cleaning immediately, before food dries on the blade, makes it effortless. A quick blend of warm soapy water in a beaker also helps clear the blade between uses.
The Last Word
The Cuisinart Smart Stick variable speed hand blender is a genuinely capable value immersion blender: its 300-watt motor purees soup in the pot, the variable-speed dial gives finer control than two-speed models, and the whisk and chopper attachments make it a 3-in-1. It’s worth it for everyday soups, smoothies, and baby food, while premium models like the Braun edge it on refinement. Choose variable over the two-speed for control, submerge the blade before blending, and clean it immediately. For the full comparison, see our immersion blender guide.
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