A practical comparison
Vitamix Explorian E310, E320 and E520: what changes?
The E310, E320 and E520 can all blend from a Vitamix Explorian base, but they are not interchangeable packages. A buyer deciding among them should compare the included container, control routine and box contents—not just a model number or motor rating. The certified-reconditioned E320 is also a separate offer, so its condition and warranty deserve their own comparison.
E310: the 48-ounce manual option
The US E310 package includes a 48-ounce jar and mini-tamper. Its panel offers ten variable speeds and Pulse, with no automatic program listed. Vitamix lists 2 HP and a five-year warranty; the exact US manual specifies a five-year full machine warranty for household use. It is the natural fit here when the smaller container meets your batch and you want to set speed yourself. It does not include the E520's tumblers or a personal blending-cup kit.
E320: 64 ounces without preset cycles
The new E320 includes a low-profile 64-ounce container and matching tamper, ten variable speeds and Pulse, with no automatic programs listed. Its page lists 2.2 HP and a “7-Year Limited Warranty”; the exact linked manual calls the term a “7-Year Full Machine Warranty.” Both say seven years, but the coverage wording differs, so check the current written terms. Its published dimensions also conflict with the manual. It suits a shopper who wants a larger jar and manual adjustment, not someone who needs a documented program cycle.
E520: programs and separate drinking tumblers
The current E520 package includes a low-profile 64-ounce jar, matching tamper and two 24-ounce Chilly Tumblers with straws. It adds Smoothies, Hot Soup and Frozen Desserts programs while retaining variable speed and Pulse. The tumblers are not blending vessels. Vitamix lists 2 HP and a seven-year full warranty for the E520 configuration. If you want programs or the drinkware in one offer, these are meaningful package differences; if you do not, E320 offers the same nominal jar capacity with the manual-only setup.
Pick by the constraint that changes your day
A 64-ounce minimum removes E310 but leaves new E320 and E520. Manual-only preference removes E520's three-program setup from that shortlist, leaving new E320 and reconditioned E320 if that condition is allowed. New-only condition removes the reconditioned package. A program requirement points to E520 among these reviewed machines. Warranty minimums also change the set: E310's five years is shorter; the reconditioned E320 lists three years; new E320 and E520 list seven years, with the E320 wording discrepancy noted above.
No horsepower comparison establishes which jar will handle a particular recipe better, and no guide can verify whether a machine will fit beneath a specific cabinet from broad product-page dimensions alone. Confirm the current package, full written terms and measurements when those details determine your choice. Read the model-level E310, E320, E520 and reconditioned E320 assessments before shopping.