?Could the Hamilton Beach Blender and Food Processor Combo for Shakes & Smoothies, With 3 Cup Electric Food Chopper Attachment, 40 oz Glass Jar, Blender Travel Cup, 700 Watts Peak Power, Gray & Black (58163) be the one appliance I actually use every day?
Quick first impressions
I was immediately struck by how complete this kit feels out of the box. The combo includes a full-size glass blending jar, a travel cup, and a 3-cup chopper attachment, so I didn’t have to buy extras to get started.
I appreciate when a product arrives with everything I need; it makes testing simpler and helps me decide if this will fit into my routine rather than collecting dust on a shelf.
Hamilton Beach Blender and Food Processor Combo for Shakes & Smoothies, With 3 Cup Electric Food Chopper Attachment, 40 oz Glass Jar, Blender Travel Cup, 700 Watts Peak Power, Gray & Black (58163)
What’s included and why it matters
I like to list what I get in a package so I know what I can realistically do with it right away. The Hamilton Beach Combo comes with a 40 oz glass jar for larger blends, a 20 oz travel jar for on-the-go drinks, and a 3-cup electric chopper attachment for small prep tasks.
These pieces give me flexibility: I can make a full pitcher of smoothies, then switch to the chopper to dice vegetables for salsa, and finish by blending a single-serve shake to take with me.
Breakdown of included parts
I find a clear breakdown helpful, so here’s a quick table that summarizes the key components and their intended uses.
| Component | Capacity / Power | Typical use |
|---|---|---|
| 40 oz glass blending jar | 40 oz | Smoothies, milkshakes, icy drinks, hot liquids |
| 20 oz blend-in travel jar | 20 oz | Single-serve smoothies/shakes to-go |
| 3-cup electric food chopper attachment | 3 cups | Chopping, slicing, shredding, prepping small quantities |
| Blender base | 700 watts peak power | Handles frozen fruit, ice, leafy greens |
| Lid with pour spout | N/A | Drip-free pouring, can add oils while blending |
| Blades (interchangeable) | Stainless steel | Blending and chopping tasks |
I like that the list makes it obvious what tasks I can handle without extra accessories.
Design and build quality
I evaluate how an appliance looks and feels because that affects how often I’ll use it. The Hamilton Beach unit has a sturdy, utilitarian appearance in gray and black that fits into most kitchens without being flashy.
The 40 oz jar is glass, which I prefer over plastic for both feel and heat tolerance. The travel jar is lightweight and fits my cup holder, and the chopper attachment locks onto the base solidly, so I don’t worry about wobbling during use.
Materials and durability
I’m a fan of glass jars for blenders because they resist staining and can handle temperature swings better than most plastics. The Hamilton Beach glass jar appears thick and heavy enough to withstand regular use.
The base and attachments are molded plastic, which is standard at this price point. I consider the materials acceptable for daily use, though I treat the chopper bowl and blades gently in the dishwasher to avoid premature wear.
Performance: blending power and results
Power matters in a blender because it determines how well it handles ice, frozen fruit, and fibrous greens. With 700 watts of peak power, this combo handled my typical smoothie ingredients with confidence.
I tested the unit with frozen berries, banana, spinach, and ice. The Wave~Action System helped pull ingredients down toward the blades, and I consistently achieved smooth, lump-free results when I gave it a few pulses followed by a steady blend.
Wave~Action System explained
I appreciate when manufacturers explain how their systems actually work. The Wave~Action System is designed to move ingredients down into the blades so I don’t end up with chunks at the top of the jar.
In practice, that means I made fewer stops to scrape the sides or reposition ingredients. I still give it a stir if I add large amounts of ice, but most mixes came out well blended without much fuss.
Food chopper attachment: what it can do
The 3-cup chopper surprised me with how handy it is for small prep jobs. I used it to chop onions, make salsa, and shred cheese, and it performed well for these low-volume tasks.
It won’t replace a full-size food processor for batch prep, but it’s perfect for single recipes or when I need to minimize dishwashing.
Chopping and slicing performance
I found that the chopper’s motor engages smoothly and the blade speed is sufficient to achieve even chops. With onions and peppers, I achieved a consistent dice without ending up with a puree.
For shredding, I used the blade that came with the chopper and found it worked best for softer cheeses and vegetables. If I need very fine shredding, I still reach for a larger processor, but this attachment saves me time for most weeknight meals.
Travel jar and convenience for on-the-go
I often grab a smoothie in the morning, so the 20 oz blend-in travel cup is genuinely useful to me. It blends directly in the jar, and then I can pop on a lid and go.
I noticed the travel jar threads securely to the base and is comfortable to hold. The lid seals well for short commutes, though I avoid tossing it into a bag with loose items to be safe.
Lid, pour spout, and mess control
The glass jar’s lid features a no-mess pour spout that I liked for precision when I’m transferring blended sauces or pouring into glasses. It reduced drips and cleanup after blending.
When I streamed in a small amount of oil while making dressing, the pour spout made it easy to control the flow without splattering.
Ease of use and control options
I value straightforward controls because they make cooking less of a chore. The Hamilton Beach unit has simple, clearly labelled settings that let me choose between different speeds and pulse functions.
I never felt overwhelmed by options, and the buttons are responsive. For most recipes, I use the pulse to break down larger pieces and then the medium-high setting for a smooth finish.
Assembly and switching attachments
I was happy that assembling the jars and switching attachments felt intuitive. The travel jar and full-size jar both lock into the base easily, and the chopper snaps on with a satisfying click.
It’s quick enough that I don’t feel like I’m wasting time when moving from blending to chopping and back.
Cleaning and maintenance
I often stop using appliances if they’re a pain to clean, so this is a major factor for me. The glass jar, lids, and blades are dishwasher-safe on the top rack, which saves time.
The base should never go in the dishwasher, of course, but a damp cloth wiped away splatters quickly. I do recommend rinsing blades and jars soon after use to prevent residue from drying and requiring extra scrubbing.
Blades and dishwasher safety
I treat the metal blades with care when loading them into the dishwasher because even though they’re labeled dishwasher-safe, frequent dishwasher cycles can dull blades over time.
I usually hand wash the blades with warm, soapy water and a soft brush to preserve sharpness. The chopper bowl is convenient to clean and generally comes out spotless in the dishwasher.
Noise level and motor behavior
Blenders can be loud, and I tested this one at multiple speeds and with different ingredients. The 700-watt motor is powerful enough that it produces a typical blender roar, especially when crushing ice and frozen fruit.
It’s not whisper-quiet, but it’s comparable to similar units in this class. I wouldn’t use it in the middle of the night in an apartment building, but for morning smoothies it’s reasonable.
Vibration and stability
I evaluated how much the base vibrates during use. The Hamilton Beach combo remained stable on my countertop during tests, with anti-slip feet that kept it from skating.
I did notice slight movement with very dense ingredients, but it was never enough to alarm me or affect blending quality.
Heat handling and glass jar benefits
One of the standout features for me is the durable 40 oz glass jar. I appreciate that I can blend both ice-cold drinks and hot liquids without worrying about warping or odors.
I made a hot soup blend after heating my ingredients slightly, and the jar felt solid and didn’t retain smells from earlier smoothies.
Temperature tolerance and safety
I like that the jar is marketed as able to withstand extreme temperatures. That gives me confidence to use it for hot blended soups or icy smoothies without switching containers.
Still, I let the jar cool slightly if I’m blending very hot liquids to avoid pressure build-up. I recommend following manufacturer guidance about temperature limits to ensure longevity.
Safety features and user precautions
I always check for safety interlocks and practical features. The Hamilton Beach unit requires the jar or chopper to be locked into the base for the motor to engage, which reduces accidental starts.
The blades are sharp, of course, so I take basic precautions when handling them and keep the unit out of reach of children.
Blade safety and locking mechanisms
I like the fact that the chopper and blending jars must be properly aligned before the blender will run. That gives me peace of mind when I’m multitasking in the kitchen.
When washing blades, I hold them by the dull center and avoid touching the cutting edges directly to protect my fingers.
Comparisons with similar combos
I compared this unit to other blender/processor combos I’ve used. It’s well-balanced for price, features, and performance; I found it to be stronger than many compact, low-watt blenders but not as heavy-duty as professional-grade models.
If you want a mid-range appliance that handles most home tasks, this is a solid choice. If you need industrial power for coarse nut butters or large-volume processing, I’d look at higher-wattage options.
Strengths versus weaknesses
I found the strengths to be versatility, glass jar, and travel cup convenience. The limitations are moderate noise levels and the chopper’s small capacity if I need to process large batches.
For day-to-day smoothies, single-serve blending, and small prep tasks, the balance of features and price makes it one of the more practical choices I’ve used.
Pros and cons summary
I like to summarize the positives and negatives to make decision-making easier. Here’s my concise take based on weeks of varied use.
Pros
- Versatile set with full-size jar, travel cup, and chopper attachment.
- 700 watts of peak power performs well on frozen ingredients and greens.
- Wave~Action System provides consistently smoother blends.
- Durable 40 oz glass jar handles hot and cold contents.
- Drip-free pour spout reduces mess and allows controlled pouring.
- Easy to assemble and clean, with dishwasher-safe parts.
Cons
- Noise level is on par with similar blenders; not quiet.
- Chopper is limited to 3 cups — not ideal for large batch processing.
- Base and attachments are plastic — long-term durability depends on care.
- Travel cup lid is secure for short trips, but I’d be cautious about tossing it in a bag with loose items.
I weigh these pros and cons against my typical usage, and for me the advantages outweigh the drawbacks.
Who this blender and processor combo is best for
I consider both the features and my own lifestyle when deciding who should buy this. This Hamilton Beach combo is ideal for someone who wants an affordable, all-in-one solution for smoothies, shakes, and light food prep.
If you’re a student, busy professional, or small household wanting convenience without investing in multiple appliances, this unit fits well.
Who might want a different option
If I needed to process large batches regularly or make heavy-duty items like nut butter often, I would opt for a more powerful, dedicated food processor or high-watt blender.
Also, if quiet operation is essential for your household (for example, feeding a sleeping baby), you might prefer a quieter or specialized appliance.
Real-world testing: recipes I tried
I put the combo through a variety of common recipes to simulate real use: fruit smoothies, protein shakes, frozen margaritas, salsa, and a warm blended soup. Each test revealed small but telling details about performance.
I’ll summarize a few tests and what I learned from them.
Berry spinach smoothie
I used frozen mixed berries, a banana, a handful of spinach, and almond milk. The blender handled the mix with power and the Wave~Action System helped keep things moving toward the blades.
Result: Smooth texture with minimal scraping required. I gave it a few pulses and a 30-second blend at medium-high to reach the desired consistency.
Frozen cocktail (margarita)
I made a blended margarita with ice, lime juice, and tequila. The motor crushed the ice efficiently, though the noise was noticeable.
Result: Smooth, icy texture. I recommend using the pulse function at the start to break up large ice chunks, then finishing on a steady speed.
Homemade salsa in chopper
I used the 3-cup chopper to combine tomatoes, onion, cilantro, jalapeño, and lime. The chopper produced an even chop without turning it into a watery puree.
Result: Fresh, well-textured salsa that required little hand chopping. I was impressed by how quick and easy it was.
Warm blended soup
I lightly heated cooked vegetables and broth, then blended to a smooth soup in the glass jar. The jar handled the temperature well, and the pour spout made serving easy.
Result: Creamy soup with no cracks or odor retention in the glass jar. I did allow the soup to cool slightly before blending to avoid pressure issues.
Value for money
I assess value by comparing features, performance, and price. Given the inclusion of a glass pitcher, travel cup, and chopper, plus a 700-watt motor and Wave~Action System, I feel the package offers strong value.
I think the combo is especially compelling for someone who needs multiple functions in a single, affordable appliance.
Longevity and warranty considerations
From my experience, regular care—like gentle washing of blades and not overworking the motor—will extend the life of any blender. Hamilton Beach typically offers reasonable customer support and warranty coverage, but I recommend checking the exact terms at purchase.
If you take care of the jar, blades, and motor, this unit should perform well for years.
Tips for best results and maintenance
I like to share practical tips from my tests so others get the most out of their purchase. These are things I wish I’d known before my first use.
- Start with liquids: Add a small amount of liquid first to help the blades pull ingredients down.
- Use pulse strategically: Pulse to break up large chunks before running a continuous blend.
- Don’t overfill the chopper: The 3-cup capacity is best for small batches; crowding it will reduce chopping efficiency.
- Rinse immediately: Rinse jars and blades right after use to prevent dried residue.
- Handwash blades: To keep blades sharp, handwash instead of repeated dishwasher cycles.
I follow these tips and find the unit performs better and lasts longer.
Troubleshooting common issues
I encountered a few minor hiccups and resolved them quickly. Here are common issues and how I handled them.
- Issue: Blender won’t start. Fix: Check that the jar is seated and locked in place; the motor won’t engage unless everything is aligned.
- Issue: Chunky smoothie. Fix: Use pulse to break down large pieces, add a splash of liquid, and blend again.
- Issue: Leaking lid. Fix: Verify the lid and pour spout are closed and the rubber gasket is clean and positioned properly.
These simple checks fixed most issues I ran into during testing.
Environmental and storage considerations
I like to consider how an appliance fits into my kitchen footprint and environmental priorities. The combo is compact enough for a countertop or cabinet and the glass jar is recyclable at end-of-life, which I prefer over all-plastic builds.
If storage space is tight, the travel cup nests inside the glass jar for more efficient stowing, and the chopper attachment takes up minimal room.
Energy use and power draw
While the motor uses 700 watts at peak, I found typical blending sessions are short—usually under a minute—so actual energy use per session is modest.
I don’t see the unit as a major energy drain in my household, but I do avoid running it for long, continuous sessions to protect the motor.
Customer support and warranty notes
I value quick, helpful customer support. Hamilton Beach generally provides standard warranties and online resources for troubleshooting, replacement parts, and manuals.
If something goes wrong, I recommend checking the manual for user-serviceable items and contacting customer service for replacement parts or deeper issues.
Replacement parts and longevity
If a blade or gasket wears out, replacement parts are typically available, and replacing those parts can extend the life of the appliance significantly.
I always keep the manual or model number handy so I can search for replacements or support quickly if needed.
Final verdict
After extensive testing, I feel confident in recommending the Hamilton Beach Blender and Food Processor Combo for Shakes & Smoothies, With 3 Cup Electric Food Chopper Attachment, 40 oz Glass Jar, Blender Travel Cup, 700 Watts Peak Power, Gray & Black (58163) to people looking for affordable versatility.
I appreciate the combination of a sturdy glass jar, a useful travel cup, and a capable chopper. It’s not the most powerful appliance on the market, but for everyday smoothies, single-serve blends, and light prep tasks it delivers consistent, user-friendly performance.
Who I would recommend this to
I would recommend this combo to busy individuals, students, small households, or anyone who wants a multi-purpose appliance without investing in multiple specialized machines.
If I had to pick one caveat, it would be the chopper’s small capacity and the typical blender noise. For those who can accept these limitations, this unit offers excellent value and functionality.
My personal rating and closing thoughts
If I score based on performance, convenience, and value, I’d give this combo a solid score in the mid-to-high range for its category. It suited my daily routine well and became a go-to for morning smoothies, quick sauces, and small prep tasks.
I enjoy having a reliable travel jar and a durable glass pitcher in one package. For me, it’s replaced multiple single-purpose tools and simplified meal prep without breaking the bank.
Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
