Is a Vitamix actually worth it over a Ninja?

Across the reviewers we read, the consensus is that Vitamix machines produce noticeably smoother textures (especially with fibrous greens, nut butters and hot soup) and last far longer, backed by a multi-year warranty that owners on r/Vitamix and r/BuyItForLife repeatedly cite. Ninja and budget blenders, however, crush ice impressively well for a fraction of the price, so the value question depends on how demanding and frequent your blending is.