Vitamix VM0103: Upgrade the machine or just add a container?

If the sticker on the bottom of your Vitamix says VM0103, you have one of the classic Vitamix bases. That family includes the 5000, the 5200, the Creations, and several Professional Series models. The names differ, but the motor base is the same.

I’m Lenny, the Vitamix guy at Blending For Good, a specialty Vitamix retailer. I’ve helped more than 25,000 people buy a Vitamix.

My take: if your VM0103 runs well, keep it. It will blend anything a brand-new Vitamix will. Spend your money on the right container, not a new machine.

What I’d add first:

• Get a second container that’ll fit under your cabinets. The tall 64-oz that came with most of these doesn’t fit and is often the reason it doesn’t stay out on the counter. I’d get a 48-ounce container. It’s labeled for Ascent, but it fits your VM0103, and it’ll keep working if you ever upgrade.
• The 48-oz stainless steel container, if you make a lot of hot soup or frozen treats. It fits the VM0103. Just don’t make it your only container: it’s heavy, and you can’t see what’s happening inside.

When I’d upgrade to a new Vitamix instead: You want a machine you can use with programs so you can walk away. Or if you want something that’ll fit on your counter and under your cabinets fully assembled. Or if you want something quieter. If that’s you, here’s what I’d get today →

Had yours for years and barely use it? That’s what Jumpstart is for.