The BlendJet 2 – rebranded from the original BlendJet – is a portable battery-powered personal blender that makes it perfect for on-the-go use. This is an all-in-one mechanism that includes a 16-ounce jar with a blade assembly at the bottom, an attached motor base, and a lid with a wrist strap. With a water-resistant USB charging port, the blender can be used upwards of a dozen times before requiring a recharge, which reinforces the convenience and portability factors. And it’s available in a vibrant rainbow of colors and patterns.
We assembled some of our staff in the office kitchenette so they could each make their favorite blended drink. This allowed us to put BlendJet 2 to the test with a variety of concoctions. One journalist opted for lemonade using filtered water, concentrated lemon juice, some lemon pulp, sugar, and ice. Other than crushing the ice into the consistency of slush, the blend was fast and worked well. One staff member opted for a frappe – ingredients included coffee, cream, flavored syrups, and ice. Once again, the ice became slushy but the blend was super fast and easy.
After we tested the water-based drinks, we tried a smoothie with ingredients that included a small selection of berries – 8 blueberries, 8 raspberries, and 8 small pitted cherries, plus half a cup of low-fat milk, and only 2 ‘tablespoons’ of low-fat frozen yogurt. That’s all it took to fill the container almost to the lid – there was no room left for ice – and the BlendJet immediately began to struggle. This caused us to stop blending several times and shake the jar to redistribute the ingredients before attempting to blend again. Eventually, the ingredients settled to a level where we could add some ice. But in the end, we were left with no more than half a cup of smoothie. The same was true for a veggie-based drink where the leafy greens, although cut up, tended to strangle the blades and caused repeated efforts to blend the drink.
We determined that the size restriction of the 16-ounce jar does not allow for drink concoctions containing many ingredients, as the photo on the box would seem to suggest. And by the time everything is blended and liquified, the amount left for consumption is considerably less than a cup. That said, the BlendJet 2 certainly provides a fast, powerful, and effective venue for blending pre-made protein mixes and uncomplicated drinks, particularly those that are water-based.
The design allows the user to drink directly from the jar, thus making the BlendJet 2 convenient for on-the-go use. However, given that the motor is attached at the base, it isn’t as lightweight as we had hoped. And, it’s even heavier when full. So even though it’s portable, it might not be ideal for every type of traveler. For example, if you plan on leaving it in your hotel room, cruise cabin, motorhome or camper, Airbnb, or VRBO rental to blend drinks while at your home base, it would be perfect. However, for hikers or travelers expecting to carry the blender with them on long journeys, it might not be ideal.
The BlendJet 2 is not dishwasher safe. Thankfully, however, it’s quick and easy to clean by hand given the simplicity of the design and the fact that the jar opens at both ends. This makes it easy to rinse out while on the run.
Overall, we think the BlendJet 2 could be the ideal solution for people who enjoy nutritious drinks but don’t enjoy the hassle or price of trying to find them while traveling. And as long as they keep their concoctions simple, it’s a fast, easy, and convenient way to remain on the move. However, is it not conducive to every travel situation.
Photos by Go GlobeHopper