Well-regarded brand, solid stainless-steel construction, strong user ratings and versatile variable-speed performance make it a compelling midmarket choice.
Price Position vs Similar
$72.99
CheaperTypicalPricier
Sits a bit above the typical mid-range immersion blender—the stainless finish and variable-speed features justify a modest premium over mainstream models, but it’s well below the high-end/professional price segment.
Usability
Unknown
PoorFairGoodGreatExcellent
A strong 4.4/5 rating and the familiar variable-speed hand-blender design indicate it is generally easy for an average person to operate.
Overview
The Cuisinart CSB-179 Smart Stick Variable Speed Hand Blender, Stainless Steel is an immersion-style kitchen tool designed to puree, emulsify, and blend directly in pots, pitchers, and bowls. With a variable-speed control and a stainless-steel finishing touch, it targets home cooks who want a compact, quick way to make soups, smoothies, sauces, and baby food without hauling out a full-size blender. At an average Amazon rating of 4.4 out of 5 and a price around $72.99, it sits in the midrange for hand blenders — attractive to anyone who wants more control than a single-speed stick without splurging on pro appliances.
Key Features & Highlights
Variable speed control — precise dial or trigger control lets you creep up to full power for smooth purees or pulse for chunkier textures.
Stainless-steel blending shaft — durable, easy-to-wipe finish that resists staining from tomato sauces and spinach.
Compact, handheld design — slips into a drawer or narrow cabinet; good for small kitchens and occasional cooks.
Cuisinart branding — a household name with a history in mid-priced kitchen gear, which often translates to dependable fit and finish.
Solid user rating — a 4.4/5 average shows most owners are satisfied with performance and value.
A Nice Fit for You If…
You make blended soups and sauces several times a week and want fast cleanup and control.
Your kitchen is small and you prefer appliances that store vertically in a narrow space.
You value having variable speeds for delicate emulsions (vinaigrettes, mayonnaise) and tougher jobs (smoothies).
You prefer stainless-steel parts that don’t absorb odors or colors from foods.
You want a mid-priced hand blender backed by a recognizable brand.
You frequently finish blending directly in the pot to avoid extra dishes.
You like a tool that feels solid in the hand — not flimsy or toy-like.
Real-World Uses Where It Shines
Think of quick weeknight jobs: puréeing tomato soup right in the stockpot, whipping a silky potato-leek bisque, smoothing hummus in the mixing bowl, or tossing frozen fruit and yogurt directly in a tall cup for an on-the-go smoothie. The variable-speed action gives enough finesse to emulsify dressings without splattering, while the stainless shaft handles acidic and colorful foods without staining. For small-batch baby food, it’s easier to rinse and reuse than a countertop blender.
Experience & Feedback
In daily use, expect the Cuisinart Smart Stick to deliver predictable immersion blending: a comfortable, slim handle that sits nicely in one hand, with a speed control that responds smoothly as you dial in texture. Most owners report easy setup — plug in, attach shaft if detachable, and you’re blending. The stainless-steel shaft tends to wipe clean quickly; splashes collect around the blade guard if you start at high speed, so beginning slow and ramping up minimizes mess. The motor has a noticeable hum under load but is not excessively loud compared with other hand blenders. Ergonomically, the balance of motor to shaft feels manageable for short tasks; for lengthy blending sessions you may notice some wrist fatigue, typical for handheld machines. Storage is simple — it slides into a pantry or a tall drawer — and the overall build feels sturdy rather than toy-like, aligning with the product’s midrange price and the brand reputation.
Pros & Cons
Variable Control: Precise speed adjustments for everything from delicate emulsions to tougher purees.
Stainless Finish: Durable shaft that resists staining and wipes clean more easily than plastic.
Midrange Value: Solid balance between price and performance at about $72.99.
Compact Storage: Slim profile for small kitchens and tight drawers.
Trusted Brand: Cuisinart’s name gives buyers confidence about durability and parts.
Good Owner Ratings: 4.4/5 average suggests broad user satisfaction.
Not Fully Quiet: Motor hums and is noticeable under heavy load (normal for the category).
Hand Fatigue Risk: Extended blending sessions can strain the wrist compared with countertop blenders.
Accessory Uncertainty: Attachment list isn’t specified in the provided data; confirm what’s included if specific tools matter.
Potential Splashing: Starting at high speed can cause splatter until you master ramping up.
Limited Heavy-Duty Power: Midrange hand blenders are great for everyday jobs but aren’t a substitute for a high-powered countertop machine for long, heavy tasks.
Comparative Advantages
Compared with basic single-speed sticks, the CSB-179’s variable-speed control and stainless-steel shaft give finer control and greater durability. Against cheaper plastic-bodied models, the stainless finish looks and feels more premium and stands up better to staining. For buyers considering a pro-level immersion blender, this model hits a middle ground: more capability than entry-level units without the higher price tag and overbuilt power of commercial machines.
Audience Fit
This product is best for home cooks who want a reliable, midrange immersion blender for everyday kitchen tasks: soups, sauces, smoothies, baby food, and quick emulsions. It’s ideal for small kitchens, cooks who blend directly in pots, and anyone who prefers a stainless-steel finish. Skip this model if you need industrial blending power for long continuous runs or require a long list of specialized attachments out of the box.
FAQs
Is this model variable speed?
Yes — the product name specifies variable speed control for more precise texture control.
What finish does it have?
The blender is described as stainless steel, offering a durable, wipe-clean surface for the shaft.
How do owners rate it?
It carries an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars, indicating generally positive feedback.
How much does it cost?
The listed price is about $72.99.
Are accessories included?
The provided information doesn’t list specific attachments. Check the retailer details when purchasing to confirm included accessories and warranty terms.
Final Verdict
The Cuisinart CSB-179 Smart Stick Variable Speed Hand Blender is a smart, practical choice for everyday kitchen blending. It pairs a useful variable-speed control with a stainless-steel shaft and a compact profile that suits small kitchens and routine tasks. With a solid average rating and a midrange price, it delivers dependable performance for most home cooks who want a step up from bare-bones sticks without investing in professional gear. If you blend soups, sauces, smoothies, or baby food regularly and value control plus easy cleanup, this Cuisinart is worth a close look. If your needs skew toward heavy-duty, long-duration blending or you require an extensive set of attachments, consider a high-power countertop blender or a professional immersion model instead.
How It Stacks Up
The Cuisinart CSB-179 lands as a solid mid-range immersion blender: variable-speed control, stainless-steel construction, and a 4.4-star average make it a dependable everyday unit. It’s generally less expensive than premium pro-style sticks but more feature-rich and durable-feeling than the cheapest models—good for home cooks who want versatility without a premium price tag.
Braun MultiQuick 5 (MQ5 series) — Premium positioning. Known for fast, smooth blending and ergonomic motor design; often praised for an “ActiveBlade” or similar adaptive technology that reduces effort. Downsides: typically pricier than the Cuisinart and can come with a smaller accessory set unless you buy a kit. Best if you want top blending performance and smoother purees for frequent heavy use.
Breville Control Grip (BSB510 / Control Grip series) — Upper-mid to premium. Standout for strong motor performance and a grippy, comfortable handle; often feels more robust in long tasks. Downsides: usually costs more than the CSB-179 and may be overkill for light, occasional blending. Use-case: serious home cooks who make soups, sauces, and baby food regularly.
KitchenAid 2-/5-Speed Hand Blender (KitchenAid Immersion series) — Mid-range. Known for reliable build and useful attachments (whisk, chopper) in some bundles. Downsides: some models have fewer speed options or slightly less power than Cuisinart’s variable range. Good if you value brand ecosystem and multi-function attachments for baking and prep.
Mueller Austria Ultra-Stick — Budget-friendly. Attractive for buyers wanting a very low price and basic blending for smoothies and simple soups. Downsides: less durable motor, fewer speed settings, and plastic-heavy construction compared with the Cuisinart. Practical for occasional users or tight budgets.
Hamilton Beach 2-Speed Hand Blender — Budget. Simple controls and easy cleanup make it a no-nonsense prep tool. Downsides: limited speed control and lower sustained power than the CSB-179. Best for light tasks like blending smoothies or small batches.
If you prioritize a balance of durability, variable speed control, and value, the Cuisinart CSB-179 is a strong choice. If you need the highest-end blending performance and ergonomic refinements, consider Braun or Breville. If you’re on a tight budget or only blend occasionally, Mueller or Hamilton Beach will save money while covering basic tasks. If attachments and brand accessory options matter, look at KitchenAid bundles.
