Blenders in general, ignoring the industrial ones for the moment, are relatively inexpensive appliances. They have motors in the three hundred fifty watt range, and variable speed controls. This allows them to process foods of varying density into varying consistency. Pitchers are generally made of plastic with glass ones on the higher end models. While blenders can be used as margarita makers, they are really designed with less dense materials in mind. Meaning they can grate ice, but really aren’t meant to do so for very long, or very often.
Using a blender in this manner will invariably dull the blades and lead to failure of the motor. Margarita mixers are generally more expensive then blenders, with some reaching over the two thousand dollar mark. Margarita mixers have stronger cutting blades with a lower gear ratio for the grinding of ice. Motors can get up into the five hundred watt range. The ones at the very end of the spectrum come on standalone metal bases. Additional features include separate ice storage compartments, and spouts built into the pitchers or collection containers themselves to facilitate pouring. Either way, just remember, don’t skimp on the tequila, pick up a few limes, and don’t forget the salt.
