Cuisinart Mini-Prep Plus DLC-2A

Performance

Outperforms nearly all other choppers. It does a very good job with chopping and grating, but gets only moderately good results for puréeing. Some owners, however, say the Mini-Prep's real problem is that it tends to turn everything into purée if you're not careful. To avoid this problem, users suggest processing foods in short pulses. Pre-cutting foods into small, uniform pieces also helps, although it can be a hassle and time consuming. Users do warn that it's unreasonable to expect this tiny machine to do the work of a full-sized food processor, but most say it's ideal for small jobs.

Ease of use

Very simple button controls. The machine has a single blade, which the "chop" button turns in one direction and the "grind" button in the other. There is a bit of a learning curve when it comes to processing foods evenly, but most users say it didn't take long to get the hang of it. Thanks to dishwasher-safe parts, most owners also find this chopper quite easy to clean, although a few users disagree. However, all users do agree that storage is no problem, as this compact model can fit anywhere. One problem a few owners report is that this small machine tends to "jump around" on the counter when in use and may need to be held down.

Durability

A few durability complaints after warranty expired. We read a few accounts of motor failures and a couple of broken blades -- including one that broke while the motor was running and sliced clean through the plastic bowl. Most of these failures occurred after the machine's 18-month warranty had expired. Broken blades can be replaced, but at an estimated $15 plus shipping, the replacement will amount to nearly half the cost of the whole machine. However, the number of durability complaints was not that high considering the total volume of reviews.

Noise

Louder than most full-sized Cuisinarts. Professional testers rate its noise level as moderate, while larger Cuisinarts are deemed quiet. Some users at Amazon.com find the machine too noisy, but others describe it as quiet, so it seems to be a question of hearing sensitivity.

Bottom line

The Cuisinart Mini-Prep Plus DLC-2A is no substitute for a full-sized food processor. However, it is suitable for small jobs and after conquering the learning curve, it is both effective and easy to use. Despite the occasional problems with durability, we think this little chopper is a top choice.