When it comes to kitchen appliances, it is true that higher cost often means higher quality. Kitchen appliances must withstand different temperatures and ingredients of different weights and hardness. Quality kitchen appliances have to be put together with quality components, and the fact is that better materials and construction cost more.

Take the example of the Hamilton Beach hand blender. A steal at under $30, it seems a good buy with its two speeds, two attachments, and extra-long cord. There’s no doubt that it can manage smaller or easier tasks such as pureéing soups or baby food, or whipping up cream. But its 200-watt motor pales in comparison to other (admittedly more expensive) models. In addition, the Hamilton Beach hand blender has been reported to have serious durability and performance issues.

One is that some of the attachments don’t seem to be made properly, and do not remain fully inserted, coming loose as the blender is operated, or even falling out entirely. Some users have also reported that the attachments crack, even dropping pieces into the food. The top of the attachments, which is made of metal, trap water and can produce rust. Another problem has been the attachments cracking and growing mold due to seepage of food and liquids inside the part. Finally, some users report that the motor is unable to handle heavier jobs over long periods, like blending a milkshake.

These problems are definitely common, though some users have no problem with it at all, especially with lighter jobs. While it does have a one-year limited warranty against defect (and all of the above problems would definitely be considered a manufacturing defect), keep in mind that you will have to pay shipping costs not only to send the old blender, but also to receive a replacement. Therefore, before buying the Hamilton Beach hand blender, be sure to carefully balance the cost versus quality, and consider your needs honestly. If you require an appliance for substantial everyday use, and you want it to be truly dependable, you may want to look elsewhere.