Can the Magic Bullet crush ice?
Only in small amounts, and this is where most disappointment comes from. Magic Bullet pitches it for milkshakes and frozen cocktails, but a 250 watt motor relies on blade speed more than force, so it copes best when ice or frozen fruit goes in a little at a time with plenty of liquid. A cup packed with ice, or fruit frozen rock hard, can leave ingredients stuck above the blade. If crushing ice is a regular job, a full-size blender is the better choice.
How do I stop the motor burning out?
Run it in short bursts rather than continuously, and let it rest if the base warms up. A long continuous run can cause a burning smell, and blending in shorter bursts avoids it. Add liquid before solids so the blade has something to circulate, let frozen fruit soften for a few minutes first, and never try to force very hard or dried ingredients through it.
What warranty does it come with?
Magic Bullet covers this set with a one year limited warranty. Keep your proof of purchase, and look after the motor with short bursts and softer ingredients, since durability is the most common complaint about this blender.
What else can it make besides smoothies?
Magic Bullet lists blending, chopping, grinding, mixing and whipping among its uses, and pitches it for milkshakes, frozen cocktails, sauces, dips, chopped salsa and pureed soups. The short cup suits small jobs like dressings and dips, and short bursts give you chunky salsa rather than a puree. Let soup cool before blending it in a sealed cup.
Why must the cups go on the top rack only?
Because Magic Bullet instructs it, and for good reason: the top rack keeps the plastic cups further from the dishwasher's heat. Plastic that gets too hot can cloud or lose its shape over time, and a cup that no longer fits the blade properly is the start of leaks. The blade itself only needs a rinse with soap and water.
Is 22 ounces enough for a family?
No. This is a one-portion machine by design, and trying to use it otherwise is how people end up disappointed. It will not make a jug of smoothie for a family. What it does well is a single serving made in the cup you then drink from, which removes most of the friction that stops people using a blender on a weekday morning.