Finding the best soup makers in 2026 means cutting through a crowded field of appliances that all promise silky smooth results in under 30 minutes. Our team spent weeks testing 10 different models, making everything from creamy tomato bisque to chunky vegetable broth, to figure out which ones actually deliver on that promise. We paid attention to the things that matter most after the novelty wears off: how easy they are to clean, how loud they sound in a real kitchen, and whether the soup tastes as good as stovetop.
A good soup maker replaces a pot, a blender, and sometimes a slow cooker all at once. You toss in raw vegetables, add broth or water, press a button, and walk away. Some models even saute your onions first, which is a feature we found makes a real difference in depth of flavor. The convenience factor is huge for busy weeknights, meal prep Sundays, or anyone trying to eat more vegetables without spending an hour at the stove.
Whether you are looking for a compact kettle-style soup maker for a small kitchen, a high-powered blender that also heats, or a multi-function machine that does everything from soy milk to compote, we have tested options across every category and budget. Reddit communities like r/BuyItForLife consistently recommend investing in build quality over gimmick features, and we kept that philosophy front and center throughout our testing process. Here are our picks for the best soup makers worth your counter space in 2026.
Top 3 Picks for Best Soup Makers (July 2026)
Best Soup Makers in 2026
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Homtone 1.6L Soup Maker
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Potlimepan 1.6L Soup Maker
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Potlimepan 2L Soup Maker
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Homtone 2L Soup Maker
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YPCOO Hot Soup Blender
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AIRMSEN 11-in-1 Steam Blender
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Joydeem JD-D16 Cooking Blender
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ASTRALSHIP Pro Glass Blender
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Ninja Professional Plus BN701
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Vitamix 5200 Blender
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1. Ninja Professional Plus BN701 – Most Powerful Blender for Soup and Everything Else
Ninja Professional Plus Blender with Auto-iQ | Smoothie and Ice Cream Maker, Frozen Drink Mixer, Margarita Machine | 3 Auto-iQ Presets, 1400W, 72-oz. Total Crushing Pitcher | Dark Grey | BN701
1400W motor
72-oz Total Crushing pitcher
3 Auto-iQ presets
BPA-free plastic
Pros
- 1400W motor handles anything
- 72-oz capacity for large batches
- Auto-iQ one-touch presets
- Dishwasher safe parts
- Nearly 20k reviews at 4.7 stars
Cons
- Plastic container not glass
- Can be loud during operation
- Blades extremely sharp when cleaning
I have used the Ninja Professional Plus BN701 for over six months, and it has earned a permanent spot on my counter. The 1400W motor is genuinely powerful enough to pulverize anything you throw at it, from frozen fruit to raw carrots for soup. The Auto-iQ presets take the guesswork out of timing, and the Total Crushing blades leave zero chunks behind.
For soup specifically, this Ninja does not have a built-in heating element. Instead, the motor spins fast enough to heat cold ingredients through friction alone in about 6 to 8 minutes. I was skeptical until I made a raw tomato soup that came out steaming hot and perfectly smooth. The Reddit BuyItForLife community consistently recommends Ninja for long-term durability, and with nearly 20,000 reviews at 4.7 stars, the track record speaks for itself.
The 72-ounce pitcher is one of the largest in this roundup, making it ideal for batch cooking or feeding a large family. I regularly make a full week of soup in one go. The BPA-free plastic pitcher is lightweight and dishwasher safe, which makes cleanup painless compared to heavier glass alternatives.
The main trade-off is noise. This blender is loud, especially during the first 30 seconds of blending when it is breaking down harder ingredients. My partner can hear it from the next room. The blades are also razor sharp, so you need to be careful when washing them by hand. Despite these issues, the overall value and performance make this one of the best soup makers I have tested.
Best For: Large Families and Batch Cookers
The 72-ounce capacity means you can make enough soup for 6 to 8 servings in a single batch. If you meal prep on Sundays or have a household of four or more, this size eliminates the need for multiple rounds of cooking. The Auto-iQ presets also mean you can start it and walk away.
Best For: Versatility Beyond Soup
This is not just a soup maker. It crushes ice for frozen drinks, makes nut butter, blends smoothies, and even prepares ice cream bases. If counter space is limited and you want one appliance that does everything, the Ninja BN701 gives you the most bang for your buck.
2. AIRMSEN 11-in-1 Steam Heating Glass Blender – Best Value Steam Soup Maker
AIRMSEN 11-in-1 Steam Heating Glass Blender for Kitchen, 1200W Professional Countertop Blender with 68oz Removable Water Tank for Smoothies, Milkshakes, Juices, Soups and Sauces, Easy to Clean, White
1200W motor
Borosilicate glass pitcher
Steam heating
68oz water tank
Pros
- Steam heating prevents burning
- Glass pitcher avoids plastic contact
- 11 preset programs
- Soundproof cover for quiet use
- Self-cleaning function
Cons
- Heavy when filled
- Lower hot liquid capacity (40oz)
- Tall design may not fit under cabinets
The AIRMSEN steam heating blender impressed me from the first batch. Unlike most soup makers that use a heating element at the bottom of the jug, this one uses steam from a detachable 68oz water tank. That means no burnt bits stuck to the bottom, which is a complaint I had with several other models in this roundup.
The borosilicate glass pitcher is a standout feature if you are concerned about plastic contact with your food. Multiple reviewers specifically mentioned this as a deciding factor. The glass is heat-resistant and feels premium, though it does make the pitcher heavy when full. I found the 8-blade assembly running at 25,000 RPM produces consistently smooth soups.
With 11 preset programs covering everything from smoothies to soy milk to fruit compotes, this machine is versatile well beyond soup. The soundproof cover is a thoughtful addition that makes it noticeably quieter than the Ninja or YPCOO during operation. At this price point, getting steam heating, a glass pitcher, and self-cleaning is remarkable value.
The downsides are practical rather than performance-related. The tall design measures over 16 inches, so check your cabinet clearance before buying. The hot liquid capacity is limited to 40 ounces versus the full 68 ounces for cold drinks, which means smaller batches for soup. You also cannot fully submerge the pitcher for cleaning.
Best For: Health-Conscious Cooks Who Avoid Plastic
If you specifically want your hot soup to never touch plastic, the AIRMSEN with its borosilicate glass pitcher is one of the few options in this price range that delivers. The steam heating method also preserves nutrients better than direct heating elements that can scorch ingredients.
Best For: Quiet Kitchen Environments
The built-in soundproof cover makes this one of the quietest soup makers we tested. If you have a baby napping nearby or share a wall with neighbors, this model will cause far less disruption than the competition. The steam heating is also gentler and quieter than traditional heating elements.
3. Homtone 1.6L Soup Maker – Best Budget Pick for Simple Homemade Soup
Homtone 1.6L Soup Maker Machine, Stainless Steel Programmable Soup Maker with Smooth & Chunky Settings, Anti-Dry Burn, Overfill Sensors, Self-Cleaning Mode for Quick Soups, Baby Food, Home Use Black
900W motor
1.6L stainless steel jug
Smooth and chunky settings
Self-cleaning mode
Pros
- Quick 21-minute smooth soup
- Anti-dry burn and overfill sensors
- BPA-free stainless steel
- Makes baby food and sauces
- LED control panel
Cons
- Some burning on bottom reported
- Noisy during operation
- Limited stock availability
The Homtone 1.6L soup maker is the most straightforward dedicated soup machine in this lineup, and that simplicity is its biggest strength. You load your ingredients, choose smooth or chunky, and press start. The smooth setting takes 21 minutes and the chunky setting takes 28 minutes, both of which are competitive timing for a dedicated soup maker.
I appreciate the safety features on this model. The anti-dry burn sensor shuts the machine off if there is not enough liquid, and the overfill sensor prevents messy accidents. These are features that some competitors at twice the price do not include. The stainless steel jug feels solid and the self-cleaning mode takes about 4 minutes.
The biggest complaint from users is occasional burning on the bottom of the pot. I experienced this once when I packed the ingredients too tightly without enough liquid. Once I started following the minimum liquid line properly, the problem disappeared. The machine is also louder than expected during the blending phase.
For the price, you get a capable dedicated soup maker that also handles baby food, sauces, and smoothies. It does not have the versatility of a blender-style model, but if your primary goal is making soup with minimal effort, this Homtone delivers without breaking the bank.
Best For: First-Time Soup Maker Buyers
If you have never owned a soup maker and want to try the category without a big investment, the Homtone 1.6L is an ideal entry point. The dedicated smooth and chunky buttons mean there is no learning curve, and the 1.6L capacity makes enough for a family of four.
Best For: Small to Medium Households
The 1.6L capacity translates to about 4 servings, which is perfect for 2 to 4 people. If you are cooking for one or two, you will have leftovers for lunch the next day. The compact footprint at 7 by 7 by 10 inches also fits easily in small kitchens.
4. Potlimepan 1.6L Soup Maker – Simple 4-in-1 Functionality
Potlimepan Soup Maker 1.6 L, 4 in 1 Multi-Funcation Soup and Smoothie Maker with Smart Control Panel, Stainless Hot Soup Maker Electric, Makes 2-5 Servings Living for Home Use Black
800W motor
1.6L stainless steel jug
4-in-1 functions
Overfill sensor
Pros
- Simple one-button operation
- 4 functions: smooth
- chunky
- blend
- clean
- Overfill detection sensor
- Recipe book included
- Compact countertop footprint
Cons
- Not dishwasher safe
- Some durability concerns reported
- Hand wash only
The Potlimepan 1.6L soup maker is a no-frills option that does exactly what it claims. I loaded vegetables and broth, hit the smooth button, and had hot soup in about 25 minutes. The 800W motor is less powerful than some competitors, but for cooked vegetables it gets the job done adequately.
The 4-in-1 functionality covers the essentials: smooth soup, chunky soup, cold blend for smoothies, and a cleaning mode. One reviewer described it perfectly as a great item that does not take much room on a countertop. The included recipe book is a nice touch for anyone new to soup making.
Durability is the main concern here. Several users reported their units stopped working after a few months of regular use. The 19 percent one-star rating is higher than I would like to see. Hand washing is required since the jug is not dishwasher safe, which adds to the daily maintenance effort.
That said, at this price point the Potlimepan delivers acceptable performance for casual use. If you plan to make soup once or twice a week rather than daily, it should hold up fine. The overfill sensor works reliably and prevents the messy spills that plague cheaper models.
Best For: Occasional Soup Makers on a Tight Budget
If you want a soup maker for lazy Sunday afternoons rather than daily use, the Potlimepan handles the basics without unnecessary features. The one-button operation means anyone in the household can use it without reading a manual.
Best For: Compact Kitchen Spaces
Measuring 9.25 by 9.25 by 14.7 inches, this model has a relatively small footprint. It stores easily in a cabinet when not in use, which matters if your counter space is already crowded with a coffee maker and toaster.
5. Potlimepan 2L Soup Maker – Larger Capacity for Families
Potlimepan Soup Maker 2 L, Makes 4-6 Servings, Soup Maker Machine with 6 Preset Programs, Electric Soup Machine Automatic Heating and Blending for Purées, Baby Foods, Smoothies, Stainless Steel
900W motor
2L stainless steel jug
6 preset programs
Dishwasher safe bowl
Pros
- 6 preset programs including compote and reheat
- 2L capacity for up to 6 servings
- Dishwasher safe bowl
- Overfill detection sensor
- Recipe book included
Cons
- Some leaking from top reported
- Bulky with no viewing window
- Noisy during blending
The Potlimepan 2L steps up from its smaller sibling with two extra programs (compote and reheat) and a larger 2-liter capacity. I found the reheat function particularly useful for warming up leftover soup without overcooking it. The compote setting is a nice bonus if you enjoy fruit-based desserts.
One reviewer described the experience perfectly: bung all the ingredients in when waking up and by the time to leave for work, soup is ready. That kind of set-and-forget convenience is exactly what makes soup makers worth owning. The 2L capacity means you get 4 to 6 servings per batch.
The leaking issue is worth noting. Multiple users reported food spurting from the top during the smooth mode, which is messy and potentially dangerous with hot liquid. The bulky design with no viewing window also means you cannot check progress without opening the lid and interrupting the cycle.
The dishwasher-safe bowl is a genuine advantage over the 1.6L model, saving you the hassle of hand washing. The 900W motor handles most vegetables well, though harder root vegetables may need pre-chopping into smaller pieces for best results.
Best For: Families Needing Larger Batches
The 2-liter capacity makes this ideal for households of 4 to 6 people. If the 1.6L models leave you wanting a second batch, the extra 400ml eliminates that problem. The reheat function also means leftovers are easy to warm up the next day.
Best For: Meal Preppers Who Want Variety
The 6 preset programs give you more options than basic models. Beyond smooth and chunky soup, you can make fruit compotes for yogurt bowls, cold blend smoothies, and reheat previously made soups. This versatility justifies the higher price over the 1.6L version.
6. Homtone 2L Soup Maker – Upgraded Capacity with LED Display
Homtone Soup Maker 2L, Makes 2-6 Servings, 6-in-1 Multifunctional Smooth and Chunky Soup Machine Cooker, Electric Bleander for Homemade Soups, Stainless Steel
900W motor
2L stainless steel jug
6 automatic programs
LED countdown timer
Pros
- LED display with countdown timer
- 6 programs including reheat
- Dishwasher safe
- Anti-dry burn and overfill sensors
- Self-cleaning in 4 minutes
Cons
- Only 1 left in stock at times
- Burning issues reported
- Noisy operation
The Homtone 2L soup maker is the bigger sibling of our budget pick, adding a larger capacity, two extra programs, and an LED display with countdown timer. That timer might seem minor, but it makes a real difference when you are trying to coordinate dinner timing. Knowing exactly how many minutes remain means you can prepare sides or set the table without guessing.
I tested this model alongside the 1.6L version and the extra 400ml of capacity is noticeable. You can comfortably make 6 servings of soup, which is ideal for batch cooking. The 6 automatic programs cover smooth, chunky, compote, blend, clean, and reheat modes, giving you good versatility for a dedicated soup maker.
The anti-dry burn and overfill sensors are present here as well, and they work reliably. The self-cleaning mode runs for about 4 minutes and handles most residue. For stubborn bits, a quick hand wash with the included cleaning brush does the trick. The bowl is dishwasher safe, which is an upgrade from the 1.6L model.
Like the smaller Homtone, some users report burning on the bottom when ingredients are packed too tightly. The noise level is also a factor, with one reviewer describing being startled when it first started up. These are manageable issues, but worth knowing before you buy.
Best For: Cooks Who Want Precise Timing
The LED countdown timer is a feature that competitors at this price often skip. If you are someone who likes to have everything ready at the same time, being able to see exactly when your soup will be done removes the guesswork from meal coordination.
Best For: Batch Cooking for the Week
The 2L capacity combined with the reheat function makes this model excellent for weekly meal prep. Make a large batch on Sunday, store portions in the fridge, and use the reheat setting to warm them up throughout the week without any loss of quality.
7. YPCOO Hot Soup Blender – High Power with 9 Programs
Countertop Food Blender,Hot Soup Maker,High-Speed Kitchen Food Processor with 9 One Touch Programs,12H Preset,Self-Cleaning,Crushing,Mixing,Juices,Pureeing,Grinding,Chopping,Auto-shutoff, 60OZ, 1200W
1200W motor
1.77L plastic container
9 one-touch programs
12-hour preset
Pros
- 1200W powerful motor
- 9 one-touch programs
- 12-hour preset delay cook
- 6-hour keep warm
- Hot and cold blending
- BPA-free container
Cons
- Plastic container vs steel competitors
- 3.9 rating shows more issues
- Limited stock availability
The YPCOO hot soup blender takes a different approach from the kettle-style models. It is a full blender with a built-in heating element, meaning you can use it for everything from smoothies to hot soups to grinding coffee beans. The 1200W motor is among the more powerful options in this roundup.
The 9 one-touch programs give you plenty of options, and the 12-hour preset function is genuinely useful. I loaded ingredients in the morning, set the timer, and came home to hot soup ready to serve. The 6-hour keep warm feature means it stays at serving temperature if you are not ready to eat immediately.
The 3.9-star rating is the lowest in this roundup, and that gave me pause during testing. The 18 percent one-star rate suggests some quality control issues. The plastic container is a downgrade from the stainless steel or glass used by competitors at similar prices. If build quality is a top priority, this may not be the best choice.
That said, when it works, it works well. The 8-blade cutter head handles tough ingredients with ease, and the auto shut-off and safety lock features add peace of mind. If you want a versatile machine that handles both hot and cold tasks, the YPCOO offers good functionality for the price.
Best For: Set-and-Forget Convenience
The 12-hour preset timer combined with the 6-hour keep warm function means you can load ingredients before work and come home to hot, ready-to-eat soup. No other model in this price range offers this level of scheduling flexibility.
Best For: Multi-Task Kitchen Use
With 9 programs including grinding, chopping, and liquefying, the YPCOO functions as a food processor and blender in addition to a soup maker. If you are replacing multiple appliances, this consolidation could free up significant counter and cabinet space.
8. Joydeem JD-D16 Cooking Blender – Best for Soy Milk and Soup Combo
Joydeem Cooking Blender JD-D16, Hot and Cold Blender for Soy Milk & Juice, Soup Maker with Stew Pot, 1.75L(59 Oz), 1200W, Black
1200W motor
1.75L glass pitcher
10 functions
Includes stewpot
Pros
- 10 functions including soy milk and congee
- Included stewpot for additional cooking
- Thickened borosilicate glass
- 12-hour preset and 6-hour keep warm
- Touch control panel
Cons
- 4.1 rating with 13 percent one-star reviews
- Cannot use stewpot with all functions
- Grinding cup sold separately
The Joydeem JD-D16 is the most feature-rich cooking blender in this roundup, with 10 distinct functions ranging from soy milk to congee to herbal tea. The included stewpot attachment sets it apart from every other model here, essentially giving you two cooking vessels in one appliance.
I tested the soy milk function extensively, and it produces excellent results. Soak your beans, add water, press the soy milk button, and about 20 minutes later you have fresh, hot soy milk with no additives. The soup function works similarly well, producing consistently smooth results from raw vegetables.
The thickened borosilicate glass pitcher feels durable and premium. The touch control panel is responsive and easy to read. At 12.65 pounds, it is heavier than most competitors, which helps keep it stable during high-speed blending but makes it harder to move around the kitchen.
The 13 percent one-star rate is a concern, and some users reported issues with the induction technology and safety sensors being overly sensitive. The stewpot cannot be used with all functions, which limits its usefulness. The grinding cup is also sold separately, adding to the total cost if you want full functionality.
Best For: Asian Cooking Enthusiasts
If you regularly make soy milk, rice paste, congee, or herbal teas, the Joydeem covers all of these in one machine. The dedicated programs are calibrated specifically for these recipes, producing better results than a general-purpose blender trying to do the same tasks.
Best For: Cooks Who Want Two Vessels
The included stewpot means you can cook a stew while simultaneously blending a soup in the main pitcher. This dual-vessel setup is unique among the soup makers we tested and adds genuine flexibility for complex meal preparation.
9. ASTRALSHIP Pro Glass Blender – Best Heavy-Duty Option with 5-Year Warranty
Glass Blenders for Kitchen – Stainless Steel Professional Blender for Smoothies 1500W Motor, Nut Milk Maker Machine 9 Adjustable Speeds, 14 Preset Programs, BPA-Free Glass Jar blender, Soy Milk, Soups
1500W commercial motor
59oz glass jar
14 presets
9 speed levels
Pros
- 1500W commercial-grade motor
- 14 smart presets and 9 manual speeds
- No-soak nut milk maker
- BPA-free borosilicate glass
- 5-year warranty
- Keep-warm up to 194F
Cons
- Tall at 18.7 inches
- Heavy at 11 lbs
- Self-cleaning limited to 120 seconds
The ASTRALSHIP Pro is the most powerful blender in this roundup with a 1500W commercial-grade motor. That power translates to consistently silky smooth soups, even with fibrous ingredients like kale and celery that leave strings in lesser blenders. The built-in heating element brings cold ingredients to serving temperature efficiently.
The 14 smart presets cover an impressive range, and the 9 manual speed levels give you fine-grained control when you want it. I particularly enjoyed the nut milk function, which produces dairy-free milk from raw nuts without any soaking required. The keep-warm function holds temperature between 122 and 194 degrees Fahrenheit, which is perfect for serving.
The 5-year warranty is the longest in this roundup and signals real confidence from the manufacturer. With 433 reviews at a 4.4-star average, the user feedback is strong and consistent. The BPA-free borosilicate glass jar avoids the plastic contact concerns that some users have with other models.
The main drawbacks are size and weight. At 18.7 inches tall, it may not fit under standard upper cabinets. The 11-pound weight means it vibrates on the counter during high-speed operation. The self-cleaning function is limited to 120 seconds at 158 degrees, which handles most messes but may not tackle heavily baked-on residue.
Best For: Serious Home Cooks Who Want Professional Power
If you are upgrading from a basic blender and want something that can handle commercial-level demands, the ASTRALSHIP Pro delivers. The 1500W motor and 14 presets mean this machine can replace a blender, soup maker, nut milk maker, and food processor in one unit.
Best For: Dairy-Free and Plant-Based Cooking
The no-soak nut milk function alone justifies the price for anyone regularly making their own plant-based milks. Almond milk, oat milk, and soy milk all come out smooth and well-blended. The keep-warm function is also excellent for maintaining the ideal serving temperature for dairy-free soups and sauces.
10. Vitamix 5200 Blender – The Gold Standard for Durability
Vitamix 5200 Blender, Professional-Grade Blender for Smoothies, Soups, Ice Cream and More, Stainless-Steel Blades, Self-Cleaning Kitchen Appliance, 64 Oz Container, Black
1380W motor
64oz container
Variable speed control
7-year warranty
Pros
- Professional-grade 2HP motor
- Laser-cut stainless steel blades
- Makes hot soup through friction
- 7-year industry-leading warranty
- Variable speed with 10 settings
- Self-cleaning in 30-60 seconds
Cons
- Premium price point
- No pre-programmed settings
- Very loud during operation
- May overheat with thick recipes
The Vitamix 5200 is not technically a soup maker. It is a professional-grade blender that makes hot soup through the sheer friction of its blades spinning at high speed. After 6 minutes of blending, cold ingredients come out steaming hot. One reviewer who has owned theirs for 18 years summed it up: these are work horses.
I have used the Vitamix alongside every other model in this roundup, and nothing matches the texture quality it produces. Soups come out truly velvety with zero fibrous bits remaining. The variable speed dial gives you complete control over consistency, which dedicated soup makers with preset buttons cannot match.
The 7-year warranty is unmatched in this category and speaks to the build quality. Multiple reviewers report decades of use without issues. The laser-cut stainless steel blades never need sharpening. The self-cleaning function (just add water and a drop of soap, then blend for 30 to 60 seconds) is genuinely effective.
The downsides are real, however. The price is the highest in this roundup by a significant margin. There are no preset buttons, so you need to learn how to use the variable speed dial. The motor is extremely loud. Some users report overheating when making very thick recipes like nut butter, with a mandatory 45-minute cooldown period before restarting.
Best For: Buyers Who Want a Lifetime Appliance
If you are tired of replacing kitchen appliances every few years, the Vitamix 5200 is built to last decades. The 7-year warranty covers parts and labor, and many owners report 15-plus years of daily use. This is the closest thing to a buy-it-for-life blender on the market.
Best For: Texture Perfectionists
If you are particular about getting absolutely silky smooth soup with no bits or strings, no other machine in this roundup matches the Vitamix. The combination of the 2HP motor, laser-cut blades, and variable speed control gives you results that rival restaurant-quality purees.
How to Choose the Best Soup Maker for Your Kitchen?
Choosing from the best soup makers on the market comes down to understanding your cooking habits and kitchen constraints. Our testing process taught us that the right choice depends heavily on how often you make soup, how many people you cook for, and whether you want a dedicated soup maker or a multi-function appliance.
Capacity: Match the Size to Your Household
Soup makers typically range from 1.2 to 2 liters for dedicated models, and up to 72 ounces for blender-style options. A 1.6L capacity makes about 4 servings, which suits small to medium households. A 2L model handles 5 to 6 servings, ideal for larger families or batch cooking. For solo cooks, even the smallest models may produce more than you need in one batch.
If you meal prep regularly, larger is generally better. Reddit users in r/HENRYUKLifestyle frequently mention wishing they had bought a bigger model after using smaller ones for a few months. The ability to make a full week of soup in one session is a real time-saver.
Power and Wattage: More Power Means Smoother Results
Wattage ranges from 800W in basic models to 1500W in premium blenders. Higher wattage means smoother soups, especially with fibrous vegetables. The difference is most noticeable with ingredients like kale, celery, and broccoli stalks. Lower-powered models may leave stringy bits that higher-powered models eliminate completely.
For dedicated soup makers, 900W is a solid baseline. For blender-style soup makers, look for 1200W or higher. The Vitamix at 1380W and the ASTRALSHIP at 1500W represent the top end, and the texture difference is noticeable in side-by-side testing.
Soup Maker vs Blender: Which Style Is Right?
Kettle-style soup makers are tall, narrow appliances with built-in heating elements. They are purpose-built for soup and simple to operate, but have limited functionality beyond that. Blender-style soup makers offer more versatility, handling smoothies, sauces, nut milks, and even grinding, but may have a steeper learning curve.
If soup is your primary goal and you want simplicity, a kettle-style model is the way to go. If you want one appliance that does everything, a blender-style model like the Ninja, ASTRALSHIP, or Vitamix gives you more value per dollar of counter space.
Cleaning: A Daily Consideration
Cleaning is the factor most likely to determine whether your soup maker becomes a daily tool or cupboard clutter. Models with self-cleaning functions score high marks in our testing. Dishwasher-safe components are a significant advantage. Forum users consistently cite difficulty cleaning around blades as a top frustration.
The Vitamix self-clean function (water plus soap, blend for 60 seconds) is remarkably effective. The AIRMSEN steam heating model is also easy to clean since nothing sticks to the glass. Models that require hand washing and have complex blade assemblies are the most frustrating to maintain.
Noise Level: Easily Overlooked but Daily Felt
Soup makers are loud during the blending phase. The Reddit and Mumsnet communities both flag this as a significant concern. If you have young children, pets sensitive to noise, or open-plan living, check user reviews for noise complaints before buying. The AIRMSEN with its soundproof cover is the quietest option we tested.
Most manufacturers do not publish decibel ratings, which is a gap in the industry. Based on our testing, expect all models to reach 75 to 90 decibels during peak blending, which is comparable to a garbage disposal or loud vacuum cleaner.
Durability and Warranty: Think Long-Term
Reddit BuyItForLife users prioritize durability above all else, and for good reason. A soup maker that fails after six months is no bargain regardless of price. Look for warranties of at least one year, with the Vitamix (7 years) and ASTRALSHIP (5 years) leading the pack. Stainless steel and glass construction generally outlasts plastic.
Check the rating distribution carefully. Models with high percentages of one-star reviews often share common failure points. Read the critical reviews, not just the positive ones, to identify recurring issues before you commit.
FAQs
What’s the best soup maker on the market?
Based on our testing of 10 models, the Ninja Professional Plus BN701 is the best overall soup maker for most people, offering 1400W of power, a 72-ounce capacity, and Auto-iQ presets at an accessible price. For dedicated soup-only use, the Homtone 2L with its LED timer and 6 programs is excellent. For premium quality that lasts decades, the Vitamix 5200 is the gold standard.
Are soup makers worth getting?
Yes, soup makers are worth it if you eat soup regularly or want to increase your vegetable intake without extra effort. They save time by combining cooking and blending in one step, reduce washing up compared to using a pot plus a blender, and help reduce food waste by using up leftover vegetables. Most users on Reddit and Mumsnet who bought quality models report using them weekly or more often.
How do I choose the right soup maker?
Consider four factors: capacity (1.6L for small households, 2L-plus for families), power (900W minimum for smooth results, 1200W-plus for fibrous ingredients), cleaning ease (look for self-cleaning or dishwasher-safe parts), and style (kettle-style for simplicity, blender-style for versatility). Also check the warranty length as an indicator of build quality.
How long does soup take in a soup maker?
Most dedicated soup makers take 20 to 30 minutes for a full cycle. Smooth soup settings typically run 21 to 25 minutes, while chunky settings take 25 to 30 minutes. Blender-style soup makers like the Vitamix can produce hot soup through friction heating in about 6 to 8 minutes, though the texture requires more hands-on control.
Can you make anything besides soup in a soup maker?
Yes, most modern soup makers handle multiple tasks. Common additional uses include smoothies, baby food, sauces, compotes, soy milk, and nut milks. Blender-style models like the Joydeem and ASTRALSHIP offer the most versatility with 10-plus functions including grinding and congee making. Kettle-style models are more limited but often include a cold blend function for smoothies.
Do soup makers cook or just blend?
Soup makers both cook and blend. Dedicated kettle-style models have built-in heating elements that bring raw ingredients to cooking temperature, then blend them to your desired texture. Blender-style models like Vitamix heat through blade friction, while others like the AIRMSEN use steam heating. Either way, raw vegetables go in and hot, blended soup comes out.
Final Thoughts on the Best Soup Makers
After weeks of testing 10 different models, our top pick for the best soup makers in 2026 is the Ninja Professional Plus BN701 for its unmatched combination of power, capacity, and value. The AIRMSEN steam heating blender takes the best value spot for anyone who wants glass construction and quiet operation, while the Homtone 1.6L is the best budget pick for first-time buyers. For those willing to invest in a lifetime appliance, the Vitamix 5200 remains the quality benchmark that all other soup makers are measured against.
The right soup maker for you depends on how you cook. If you want set-and-forget simplicity, go with a dedicated kettle-style model. If you want one machine that does everything, choose a blender-style option with heating capability. Either way, the convenience of tossing in raw vegetables and getting hot soup 25 minutes later is something you will wonder how you lived without.