From what I can tell the Blendtec and Vitamix are about the same - but the new Vitamix comes with a bigger pitcher (or whatever it is called) while the Blendtec requires that you buy a bigger one for another $100. I think the Vitamix has more horsepower. As stupid as this all may sound, the machine is amazing - it's like having a personal Jamba Juice in your house. I can't wait to go for a ride tomorrow so I can make a post-ride drink. ha ha