I really have no idea how I've survived without this blender so far. I thought chunks in smoothie are normal. This device is a perfect replacement for such a smoothie-to-go blender, but large enough to fill 2.5-3 IKEA glasses. I've tested plenty of blenders over the years and this one is definitely the best. I thought fixed blades meant more cleaning work, but not true at all (at least if you're making smoothies. I haven't dared to make peanut butter yet). The can is light, so if you have sore or weak hands, this one is much better than a heavy glass option. The blender is very powerful and there is no special clamp or click system to hold the jug on the appliance, so when you switch to a high speed, the jug moves a few degrees to the left (or right?). That's normal according to YouTube videos. First day I was too scared to run to speed 10, because of the huge noise and the moving can. After twice I am more used to it. You must have confidence in the safety and design, then you will feel less afraid of the noise of the engine. Noise is the only downside of the blender, but if you want to make a perfect smoothie, that's the only option. I have experience with the silentmixx blender, wmf kitchen mini's smoothie to go blender, Princess smoothie to go, nutribullet, nutrininja and a blender attachment for the Bosch food processor. So far, I think the vitamix is the best blender in terms of performance, cleaning, weight, size and ease of use.