Oster BLSTPB-WBL vs Magic Bullet 11 Piece Set Side-by-Side Comparison
Our comparison between the Oster BLSTPB-WBL vs. Magic Bullet 11-Piece Set reveals that, with the same level of power, there isn't always the same efficiency.
Specifications
Design
The overall design is thoughtful and well-made for the price. It is developed with extra features that some people might find useful. Not only that, but attention to detail on all parts and surfaces also makes the Oster BLSTPB-WBL a personal blender of hi-tech and refinement.
The Magic Bullet has a straightforward design, and this is the only praise we can really give it. On paper, the blender is advertised to be made of high-impact plastic, but in fact, it only took us a glance to criticize its poor quality. There are also several other drawbacks and you may consider those acceptable trade-offs given its low price. However, in the end, we are sure you will eventually become uncomfortable with such limitations.
Usability
Using the Oster BLSTPB-WBL is not much of an issue but requires a bit of a learning curve at first. The most frustrating part is locking the cup with the blade attached in the motor base. Still, once you get the swing of things, it won’t challenge you anymore. Cleaning, on the other hand, will definitely be a problem if you don’t have a bottle brush available.
We cannot deny the Magic Bullet’s user-friendly design, but after hours of experimenting with it, we realized this blender is actually quite frustrating to use. More often than not, though, cleaning and assembling are effortless.
Performance
As a low-powered portable blender, this Oster was just moderately capable of making protein shakes and frozen fruit smoothies. We wondered if it would somehow be more efficient than its rivals and provide us with fluffy crushed ice or a quick extraction of leafy greens, but it turned out that such tasks were far beyond its strength.
The Magic Bullet sports a 250-watt motor, which we found to be less efficient than higher-priced blenders and this resulted in some limitations on its testing performance. However, it's important to consider that these limitations are a compromise for its affordable price point. On the bright side, the blender can still work adequately for preparing smoothies packed with fresh fruits or soaked nuts.
Overall Scores
Pros & Cons
- It is affordable but better than its competitors at blending frozen fruits.
- The light-duty motor works consistently for basic tasks like making smoothies, protein shakes, whole-food sauces, and more.
- Its usability allows for an enjoyable blending experience.
- There is a built-in, resettable fuse, which will revive the motor in 15 minutes if it overheats.
- Easy to use, assemble, and clean.
- Stainless steel extractor blades are pretty solid.
- Three extra blending cups are included.
- The blending jar is somewhat difficult to clean due to its narrow design.
- The small circumference of the jar’s opening makes adding powders and fruits quite messy.
- This blender is not ideal for quick fibrous meals.
- It doesn’t allow for hands-free operation.
- It is not suitable for blending frozen fruits or raw nuts.
- Motor base jumps around while operating.
- Build quality is not good.
- Its performance is inconsistent.
Conclusion
In our tests, the Oster BLSTPB-WBL wasn’t particularly impressive, churning out a serving of protein shake, leafy greens extraction, or frozen fruit smoothie with an acceptable texture, but not perfect. Some of its competitors in this market segment, including the Magic Bullet 11-Piece Set, produced even more mediocre results.
Within the same price range, the quality of build design between the two single-serve blenders is quite comparable. Both are equally average-built and come with a compact base. However, the Oster BLSTPB-WBL looks more aesthetically appealing due to the sporty design.
In short, making blended beverages with the Oster BLSTPB-WBL is good for the simple combining of soft ingredients; its 250-watt motor being insufficient for excellent results of heavy-duty blends. But if this is sufficient for your needs and you can make compromises in order to get even blends, this blender would be the better one to have.
Behind the Comparison
Tina Pham is a staff writer and reviewer, with five years of experience in the industry. As a passionate amateur home cook, she loves to discover practical cooking solutions, and has made it her mission to bring her findings to every kitchen. Her ultimate goal is making cooking more of a pleasure for all.
Lap is Head of the Research, Testing, and Review Team (RTR Team) at HealthyKitchen101.com, where he directs and supervises the testing of kitchen gadgets and appliances.
