We of course tested each blender's ability to make a uniform smoothie, filtering the results through a sieve to see how much fine pulp remained. I tested the blender's ability to power through dense substances like nut butter smoothies with protein powder and ice, and its ability to process fibrous greens like kale. For consistency comparing the noise of each blender, I tested decibel levels of the motor while spinning into water. I don't favor glass-jar blenders, because of shatter risk, but I did verify that plastic blending jugs are BPA-free. But it's still a powerful blender at a low price, and the pulse setting gives it a lot of flexibility.