Updated May 16, 2018
Today a lot of people are wondering how the Vitamix Creations GC 48-oz 13-in-1* blender compares to other models because of the QVC TSV. You can read my full page about differences between Vitamix machines, but I created this page for people who want a summary centered on the Vitamix Creations GC 13-in-1 (“galaxy class”).
The Vitamix Creations GC is essentially the same as the Vitamix 5200. The QVC marketing material lists the GC power rating at 2.25 peak horsepower, but I do not believe that it is any more powerful than the 5200. (The 5200 is sometimes listed at 2 and sometimes at 2+ peak horsepower.)
Update: The Creations GC 48-oz is nearly identical to the new E310. Blending performance is the same. The E310 just moves the maximum speed to 10 on the dial and turns the left switch into a pulse switch.
Compared to Vitamix’s usual pricing on the Creations GC and the 5200, the TSV is a good deal. [If you missed the TSV, I would pass on the Creations GC. In addition to the machines mentioned below, a 5200 will give you an additional 2 years of warranty for a lower price.] However, there are a few other machines that you should consider that I will describe below. For a value even better than the TSV, check out the Vitamix certified reconditioned machines. And for the latest and greatest blending experience, consider the Next Generation (“G-series”) models described below.
Note that as part of Vitamix’s deal with QVC, the QVC “Creations” models come with a 5-year warranty instead of the standard 7-year warranty. This is not because the QVC models are sub-par, but rather it is part of their pricing agreement.
If you are looking for the best deal, the reconditioned units direct from Vitamix are a better deal than the QVC TSV, in my opinion. The Standard Reconditioned for $329 is comparable and comes with the same 5-year warranty as the Creations models. The reconditioned units are essentially indistinguishable from new ones and have seen little, if any, use (for more details, see this page).
Another advantage of ordering direct from Vitamix is that if you decide to return your machine in the first 30 days, they will fully cover return shipping (that’s free shipping both ways!), whereas QVC will charge you for return shipping unless they made an error.
Vitamix now offers payment plans, which you can select during checkout online.
One last thing to note is that if your budget is a bit more flexible, you might want to consider one of the Next Generation machines (7500 or Pro 750). The difference is that the Next Gen machines have longer blades, a wider container, and a quieter motor. The updated design makes for better chopping/”food processing” tasks, greater ease of scraping thick mixtures out, less need for tamper, and slightly faster processing. The only slight downside to the Next Generation models is that the wider container makes small volumes of less than 2 cups slightly trickier to blend. (For this reason, some people like to pair a narrow 32-oz or 48-oz container with their wide Next Generation 64-oz container.)
Vitamix sells Next Generation units reconditioned for $429 (the 750 with preset modes starts at $519).
If you want preset modes at a lower price you can get them on a Classic style machine for $379 with the Standard Programs model.
I hope this helps you make your buying decision. If you have any questions, please feel free to enter them as comments below or contact me and I will try to answer throughout the day.
* Vitamix 13-in-1?
You may wonder what 13-in-1 refers to; it refers to the number of appliances that QVC and Vitamix say that the Creations GC can replace. (It used to be 12-in-1, but they recently added one more.) Here are the 13 appliances:
- Whole food juicer
- Ice cream maker
- Hot soup maker
- Blender
- Cheese grater
- Chopper
- Meat grinder
- Ice crusher
- Peanut butter maker
- Stick blender
- Food processor
- Hand mixer
- Fondue maker
The marketing line is: It’s not a blender, it’s a Vitamix. The truth is that it is a blender, but it happens to be a really good blender.
Are all containers interchangeable? Meaning if I purchase a Vita Mix with a 48 oz container, will a 64 oz also fit? Eva
This is an excellent question, to which the FAQ posted on the QVC has a wrong answer!
All the containers are interchangeable except for the new wide 64-oz container. The wide 64-oz container is only meant for use with the 7500/Pro 300 and Pro 750. That Vitamix FAQ was likely written before the Next Generation units were released.
You can use the standard tall 64-oz container with any Vitamix.
Is this also true that any vitamix pitchers are interchangeable and will fit the vintage 2200 reversible kitchen center model? The canister was stainless steel.
When I wrote that I was referring to Vitamix models sold at the time. None of the current containers are compatible with the the 2200.
Also, since I wrote that comment, Vitamix came out with the S-Series, which uses different containers.
Wow, you sure know your Vita mix? May I ask who you are and how you got to know all this?
I’ve had mine for over 10 years. I love the way it works, but I hate getting thick mixtures (nut butters, etc) out of the bottom. I have a Gluten free bakery ( http://www.screamingood.com) and use my 2nd Vitamix all the time. I considered buying the TSV today on QVC, but I’m having 2nd thoughts after reading that the power is the same as the 5200. However, I would love a wider base, as I’ve ruined so many spatulas, including the ones they sell at Vitamix, trying to get the food out. Thought about the Ninja, as it is so much easier. Any thoughts on that one? Thanks.
I am just a long time Vitamix user and fan. About a year ago I launched this site. People kept asking me which Vitamix to buy, so I did a lot of research into the different models and have tried to present it as clearly as possible.
For very thick mixtures, the wide Next Generation containers do have a bit of an advantage.
Ninja machines are not in the same class as Vitamix.
We have a Ninja & Adam is right – it’s no where near in the same class as a Vitamix. It’s a nice blender and better than a run-of-the-mill Oster or similar blender, and the single serve cup for smoothies is great, but it can’t do what a Vitamix can.
Hi there, I’m so excited to find someone with answers to my burning vitamix question! 😉 I aquired a vintage vitamix 2100 “kitchen center” and need a container for it. I have my eye on the 32 oz Advance container with the XP blade. Do you know for sure if these two are compatible? I am hoping that “all containers are interchangeable (except the new 64 oz)” really means all, but I just wanted to confirm that it also applies to vintage bases. Thank so much!
Unfortunately that is not going to work. My statement about interchangeable containers referred to currently manufactured/sold machines for home use. The 2100 is long out of production, and the Advance container is a commercial unit, so they would be doubly incompatible. The 2100 is only compatible with the old stainless steel containers.
Thank you so much! I really appreciate your help!! If I may ask one more question, are the stainless steel containers all compatible or do I need to be careful about them, too? I’ve noticed that there is one that has a spigot, and other than that they all look indistinguishable to me.
Sorry, those machines predate my Vitamix knowledge, so I do not know. Your best bet would probably be to call Vitamix directly and see if there’s anyone there who can tell you.
Thank you so much for your time and consideration. Again, I really appreciate your help!
does anyone out there sell the bearings the go into the blade assemblies for the super 3600 can
Which vitamix is the best for a two person family? And which is your favorite?
In my opinion there is no single best Vitamix. The answer depends on how much you are comfortable spending as well as which features are appealing to you. For a full discussion, check out the first sections of this page: https://joyofblending.com/which-vitamix-to-buy/
My personal favorite is the 7500 paired with an extra 32-oz container.
I purchased an s30 machine as I am one person and the smaller container and travel container seemed a good idea. I used it once and the noise to make soup was awful for me…ambiant noise is not good for eighty year olds…Also when I got it home I learned that the motor was not even one horse power….I think I might be happier with a stronger quieter motor that can handle the 48 ox. container…I can live without the carry out one. I want to make my soup fast, and not have to wear ear plugs while doing so…what is your opinion and thank you very much.
I purchased the vitamix GC series from QVC..several recipes I’ve found say to use the “dry mix” container such as when making nut butters and chopping…yet on the demo he made peanut butter in what appeared to be same container as all the rest if his recipes. So is the dry mix container necessary with my machine ? Thx
The dry container is not necessary, but it can come in handy. I wrote more about this question a while back: Is the Vitamix dry container worth it?
Hi,I just bought the 7500 but the 64oz container is too big. Which of the other containers do you recommend?
You have the choice between the 32-oz and 48-oz containers. In your position of already having a 64-oz container I would generally recommend the 32-oz container, because it’s just a bit more compact, and if you ever want to make a very large blend, you can always pull out your big container. (I prefer the 32-oz container for this purpose.)
The flip side is that, some people like the 48-oz container because you can make slightly larger blends, and it is only slightly taller than the 32-oz container. (It’s mostly wider, although the inside of the bottom is the same width as the 32-oz container so it does just as well on low volume blends…)
I am trying to decide between the 7500 and Creations elite. Is the only difference the size of the container? Also can I use a 64 oz container with the elite? Thanks
Yes, the only difference is the container (plus a slightly different cookbook). You can use a 64-oz container with the Creations Elite, but Vitamix does not sell the G-Series wide container separately, so the only way to get one is to buy a machine that comes with it.
Thanks. So I don’t know why I’m struggling with this so much. Totally over thinking. I plan on using for smoothies, soups and occasional mixed drinks. It will most often be small amounts. Is it wiser to go with 64 and a 32 or just the 48. In the demos I’ve seen it looks like the 48 can make a sizable quantity. Is the 64 too big? Thanks so much
I think 64 + 32 is best, but of course it does cost a bit more. Just a 48-oz is still quite capable. I find myself going over 48 oz when I make soups and when I’m making smoothies/drinks for a larger group (more than 2–3 people).
Ok I promise this is my last question. So between the 7500 and Pro 300, you prefer the 7500, correct? I like the faceplate of the pro 300 but if the recipe book is better with the 7500 I can adapt. Thoughts?? Thank you so much for your time
The only reason I prefer the 7500 is that it usually costs a bit less than the Pro 300. You won’t be missing out by going with one or the other.
I just purchased the QCC creations GC 48 oz. model. When I place the container on the base, it is not snug and can rotate slightly in a circular motion. When I used the machine, the container also rotated from the force of the spinning. Is this normal?
Yes, perfectly normal. Enjoy your new machine!
I feel I’ve hit the jackpot…I got a VitaMix VM0115E…old school but seems like it’s a beast. In the process of cleaning it, I put some water & soap in the container. I closed the cover and thought I put the lid on the container, securely. However, there was water spraying all around. Is it possible I did not secure the lid or shall I assume there is no longer a “seal” and I should purchase a new container? I have been on google and cannot seem to get specifics so anything, anyone is willing to share…I would greatly appreciate it! Thanks so much!
That is a commercial unit, and I do not have any first-hand experience with it. I do have a few ideas for you though. (I’m assuming that the water was coming out at the lid seal; if not, you probably need a new container.)
First, make sure the lid is on snug. If it still leaks, try rubbing a little cooking oil on the lid where it contacts the container, then wipe off excess oil. I’ve had that help a few leaking lids.
If that doesn’t work, if you inspect the container and make sure it doesn’t have any cracks or major defects, you might solve your problem with just a new lid. If the lid is square, I believe you’re looking for an XP lid, which is no longer made by Vitamix, but they make an adapter. If the lid has two straight sides plus a rounded side, I think it’s an Advance container. If you’re looking to buy a new container or lid, I recently bought some parts from eTundra Restaurant Supply, and they were pretty good.
I just bought the GC creations with the 48 oz container. I love it! I want to buy the 64 oz container, and some are sold without the lid (and are much cheaper). Can I use the lid from the 48 oz container for the 64 oz container? Thank you!!
The lids for the 48 and 64-oz containers are almost identical, but they are slightly different. The 64-oz lid will definitely not fit on the 48-oz container, but the 48-oz container lid can fit on the 64-oz container. It may be slightly more likely to leak, but I believe it will work fine.
Can you tell me which, if any, of the Vitamix blenders comes with a stainless steel base? I just don’t like the plastic. Thank you!
Most of the current Vitamix models are available with a brushed stainless steel finish as a premium option. You can see all of them here. The base is not 100% stainless steel though—the shell is plastic covered with a layer of metal that will match other brushed stainless kitchen items. Vitamix machines made before ~1990 had all-metal bases, but the gaskets on those machines wear out and it’s now hard to find replacements.
Maybe this has been answered and I admit I didn’t read every question — but I have a Creations II 10-1 and yikes!! I just dropped the container and it’s cracked. How to get one to fit that?? I’ve had it for about 5 years and it’s a 48 oz. Not sure if the 64 oz would fit.
Anyone?
If you want another 48-oz container, Amazon currently has the best price: link. Yes, the 64-oz container will also fit, if you want a bigger container. (There are actually two different 64-oz Vitamix containers, both of which would fit your machine, though technically Vitamix only wants you to use the tall/narrow one with your model.)
Hi Adam, you certainly know your stuff! I make single serve smoothies in the a.m and also want the option of making large portion soups, baby foods, flours, peanut butter etc. is there a vita you would recommend? Preferably one that has a single serve smoothie option so I don’t have to make it in a larger container then put it in a shaker container to go? This is why I was considering the ninja as I know they have this option but would much prefer a reasonably priced vitamix!
Thank you
If you want to a Vitamix with a “blend and go” container, you’ll need to get an S-Series model. However, note that those have a maximum capacity of 40 oz, which is less than the 64 oz of the full-size Vitamix models.
For choosing among the S-Series models, the main question is if you want to pay extra for preset modes. I personally wouldn’t pay extra for them, but some people love them. There is a currently an awesome sale running on the S30: check out the green box over on my S-Series review page for details.
Help! I’m agonizing over which Vitamix to get. I would like a model that will fit under the cabinet. I primarily want to use the Vitamix to blend smoothies for both single servings and a family of 4, plus quart size batches of nut milk and nut butters. Do you think the 48 ounce container is the way to go? I really think the 64 ounce will be too big for single servings and I don’t have the budget for more than one container, this is already a huge investment for me. Also to note, I am looking at the CIA version. I would be thrilled with any feedback you can offer. Thanks so much!
It sounds like you are aware of the trade-offs. I don’t have a simple answer for you: either the 48 or 64-oz container could be a good choice.
The 48 oz container will have more of a limit on making large amounts, which might be an issue for a family of 4. That said, 48-oz is a decent amount, and you can go over that capacity by about another 8 oz if you are careful.
The low-profile 64-oz will obviously give you more capacity, with the trade-off that its minimum volume is a bit more. Some people are happy blending single servings in it, others get frustrated.
Ultimately, it sounds like you’re not turned off by the 48-oz capacity limit, so from what you’ve said, I’d say go with the 48-oz container.
As for the CIA version, there’s nothing different about it other than the logo on the front, and it is usually more expensive than the 5200, so I would skip it.
Hi there,I recently ordered the 5200 & it comes with the 64oz tall container. I’m looking to get a 2nd smaller container & at first I thought the 32oz would be adequate but am wondering can a single serving be made using the 48oz? Single serving of say a cup of ice cream perhaps? Flexibility of making bigger batches but still capable of doing a single serving would be a plus if possible. Your opinion would be helpful. Thank you in advance.
All of the containers you mention (tall 64oz, 48oz, 32oz) use the same 3-inch diameter blade, and their inner dimensions around the blades are essentially identical. So for processing 1 cup at a time, they will all perform the same. As far as differences go, the 32 and 48-oz containers are shorter than the 64-oz, so scraping things out is a bit easier, plus they’re just less bulky overall.
My personal preference is the 32 plus 64 oz combo, but if you prefer to mainly use a single container, the 48-oz container is great (as long as you don’t need to make more than ~50-oz..
Thank you for getting back to me.Knowing I can actually make a single cup portion in a 48oz container is great news. I can’t see myself exceeding the 48oz for 2 but I can see myself exceeding 2 servings in a 32oz unless it’s just for me so that’s why I kept going back & forth between the two looking for the best option for my needs without having to purchase both since i just purchased the vitamix too.The 64oz seems huge & awkward for smaller servings. But no one mentions anything about a 48oz being capable of making as little as a single serving until now.Will get the 48oz, the all in one size for me. Thanks so much for your help.