Thermomix TM7 vs Older Models (TM6 & TM5): Is It Time to Upgrade?
- Beatriz
- Sep 13
- 12 min read
If you’re a proud owner of a Thermomix TM5 or TM6, the burning question on your mind is likely: Is the new Thermomix TM7 worth the upgrade? In this guide, we’ll compare the TM7 with the TM6 and TM5 to highlight what’s changed and whether upgrading makes sense. From enhanced hardware to new cooking capabilities, here’s everything you need to know to make an informed decision.
When you’re ready to purchase, remember that Thermomix can only be purchased through an official Advisor – Life With Thermomix is here to help you through the process. You’ll be getting a game-changing appliance that will serve you for years.
Upgrade your kitchen today with Thermomix and join thousands of UK and Ireland home cooks who cook smarter, not harder!!
TM7 at a Glance – What’s New?
The Thermomix TM7 represents a significant evolution of Vorwerk’s all-in-one cooking appliance. Key upgrades and new features include:
Larger Touchscreen: The TM7 boasts a 10-inch multi-touch display, a big jump from the TM6’s 6.8-inch screen. This tablet-like interface makes following recipes and adjusting settings much easier – even if your hands are wet or floured, the screen remains responsive (yes, it’s designed to be used with messy fingers!). The extra real estate allows for more intuitive recipe steps and images, truly “bringing Cookidoo to life” on the device.
New Cooking Modes: TM7 introduces 20 cooking modes vs 17 on TM6. Notably, it adds:
Open Cooking & Browning: You can now cook with the lid off up to 100 °C and even brown/sauté ingredients with the lid open (the blades stop for safety during open cooking). This gives more flexibility for dishes like pan-frying or reducing sauces – essentially using the Thermomix as a precise stovetop pot.
Improved Steaming Mode: Instead of the old “Varoma” setting, TM7 has a dedicated steaming mode for the Varoma attachment, which simplifies high-temperature steaming tasks.
These new modes expand what you can do manually. On TM6, certain high-heat functions were locked behind guided recipes for safety, but TM7 allows more manual control (except still restricting the very hottest “sugar stages” caramelizing for safety).
Quieter, More Powerful Motor: The TM7’s motor was re-engineered for a broader RPM range (40 to 10,700) with “whisper-quiet” operation at lower speedsIn practice, TM7 is significantly quieter when stirring or kneading – users report that at speed 1 you may hardly hear itThis is a welcome change if you found the TM5/TM6 a bit noisy, especially for early-morning smoothie making or late-night dough kneading. Despite being quieter, the motor is just as (if not more) powerful. It can still hit very high speeds for fine grinding and puréeing, but you’ll notice the noise reduction in everyday use.
Bigger Varoma & Improved Accessories: The Varoma steaming tray is 45% larger in the TM7 (now ~6.8 L total capacity with tray) and it’s been redesigned in a more efficient rectangular shape. This is great news for families – you can steam larger batches of veggies, buns, or fish in one go. The mixing bowl remains 2.2 L (same nominal volume as TM5/TM6 for recipe compatibility), but it’s now double-walled with an insulated outer layer. The insulation keeps the bowl exterior cooler (safer to touch) and helps maintain heat, as well as dampening noise. Also, the TM7’s bowl has a new lever-style blade locking mechanism underneath instead of the TM6’s twist-in blade – making it easier to attach/detach the blade for cleaning. Other included accessories (spatula, butterfly whisk, simmering basket) got minor design tweaks for ergonomics, but serve the same functions.
Sleek Design & No More Arms: One immediately visible change: the TM7 is black with no external locking arms. The look is modern and minimalist. The old two “wings” that clasped the TM6 lid are gone – TM7’s lid locks internally. Worried about safety? Don’t be: the new hidden locking mechanism ensures the lid stays shut when it needs to. In fact, it only locks once speeds go above ⏱️ speed 2, meaning at lower speeds you can lift the lid to add ingredients and it will auto-stop, then resume when you close – very nifty. Many users love that the finicky arms are gone (no more awkward cleaning around them).
Enhanced Connectivity & UI: The TM7 is designed to feel like a smart device. It has improved Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, enabling over-the-air updates and connectivity with new accessories (the TM7 supports a wireless temperature sensor probe accessory in the future). The interface now allows a customizable home screen with shortcuts to favorite recipes or cooking modes. Essentially, the TM7 integrates even more tightly with the Cookidoo recipe ecosystem – you can browse, plan, and execute recipes all on the machine with greater ease. No more rotary knob (as on TM6); selections are purely via touch, which most users find more straightforward.
Those are the headline changes. But how do these improvements stack up for TM6 owners and TM5 owners specifically? Let’s break it down by model:
TM7 vs TM6: Do TM6 Owners Need to Upgrade?
The TM6 (launched 2019) is already a powerful machine – so is the TM7 a revolution or just a refinement? Here’s a quick comparison:
Performance: Both TM6 and TM7 can cook, chop, blend, knead, etc. at similar power levels, but TM7’s quieter motor and larger Varoma are quality-of-life upgrades. If noise or Varoma size was a pain point for you, TM7 addresses those (TM7 Varoma = 6.8 L vs TM6’s 4.7 L). Also, TM7’s internal design (insulated bowl) cuts down on heat loss and noise – it feels more “solid”. The actual cooking results (soups, doughs, etc.) are equally excellent on both; TM7 just does it a bit more quietly and in bigger batches when steaming.
Features: TM6 owners will find some exciting new modes on TM7 (Open Cooking, etc.) but the core functionality overlaps a lot. For example, TM6 can also reach 160 °C for high-heat frying, but only within guided recipes; TM7 allows more manual browning which advanced cooks may appreciate. The 10″ screen on TM7 is a major usability boost over the TM6’s smaller screen – easier reading and navigation. If you often squinted at recipes on TM6 or used the app to browse because the device screen felt cramped, you’ll love the TM7 interface.
Compatibility: Good news – Cookidoo recipes are fully compatible between TM6 and TM7 (no need to worry about losing access to guided recipes) In fact, Cookidoo now simply offers TM7 users additional content (some recipes that take advantage of open-lid cooking or the larger Varoma, etc., but TM6 can still make almost everything TM7 can, sometimes with minor manual tweaks). Accessory-wise, some TM6 accessories do work with TM7: e.g. the Blade Cover & Peeler attachment and the Thermomix Cutter (if you bought those for TM6) will fit the TM7 bowl since the bowl dimensions are unchanged. However, certain parts are not cross-compatible: the TM6 bowl/lid won’t fit the TM7 due to the new locking system and lid design, and the TM6’s Varoma definitely won’t fit (different shape). So you would need a new second bowl or Varoma specifically for TM7 if you like having spares.
Is it worth it? If you purchased a TM6 recently, you might wonder if it’s “just a nicer screen and a new coat of paint?” There is more to it, but many TM6 owners are taking a “wait and see” approach. The TM6 is still an excellent appliance; Vorwerk even continued selling it for a while during TM7 pre-orders to give customers a choice. In fact, as of mid-2025, some consultants advise TM6 owners to stick with their machine unless the new features really call out to them. Bottom line for TM6 users: The TM7 is a refinement, not a must-have revolution. If you’re a tech enthusiast who loves the latest gadgets (and a bigger screen), or you find the specific new features (open cooking, quieter motor, etc.) would significantly improve your Thermomix experience, then upgrading will make you happy. Otherwise, your TM6 isn’t obsolete – it remains supported and will continue to get Cookidoo recipes. You could keep enjoying it until perhaps a future TM8 or until you feel the upgrade itch strongly.
(One thing to consider: TM6 resale value. With TM7 out, TM6 second-hand prices might drop. If you plan to sell your TM6 to fund the TM7, doing it sooner might fetch a better price from someone who doesn’t want to pay full TM7 price. This is a practical tip many owners discuss in forums.)
TM7 vs TM5 (and TM31): Giant Leap for TM5 Owners
If you have the older TM5 (2014 release) or even the classic TM31 (2004 release), the upgrade to TM7 will be huge. The TM5 lacks many of the advances that both TM6 and TM7 have, so you’ll experience improvements on multiple fronts:
Guided Cooking & Connectivity: TM5 introduced a basic recipe chip system but didn’t have built-in Wi-Fi. TM7 offers full Wi-Fi connectivity with Cookidoo – meaning instant access to a constantly updated library of 100,000+ recipes on the machine. No more swapping recipe chips or manually transferring recipes. For TM31 owners (who had no guided cooking at all), this will be like stepping into the future: the machine can literally guide you step by step, displaying ingredients and timings as you go.
Cooking Functions: TM5 had fewer dedicated modes (e.g., it didn’t have sous-vide or fermentation which TM6 introduced). TM7 has all those advanced modes (Slow Cook, Sous Vide, Ferment, etc.) plus the new ones like Browning and open-lid cooking. For someone coming from TM5 or TM31, a TM7 will open up entirely new ways of cooking – low-temp sous-vide for perfect steaks, proofing dough at controlled temperature, slow cooking stews overnight, etc., were not features on older models.
Hardware Upgrades: The jump from TM5 → TM7 includes all the improvements TM6 brought (better scales that measure in 1g increments, higher heat up to 160°C, improved butterfly whisk design, etc.) and the TM7’s own new upgrades. Notably, TM7’s interface and screen will feel lightyears ahead. TM5 owners often mention they envy how effortless recipe-following is on TM6/TM7’s screen versus the small interface on TM5. The TM7’s quiet motor and insulated bowl also contrast with the TM5, which could be quite loud at high speed and whose bowl gets very hot on the outside after cooking.
Accessories and Compatibility: Unfortunately, most accessories from TM5 (and certainly TM31) won’t be usable on TM7 due to design changes. For instance, TM5’s bowl, blade, lid, etc., are not compatible with TM7. The only items you might carry over are things like the Thermomix cookbooks (the recipes, conceptually) – but those you can find on Cookidoo now anyway – and maybe your spatula (though TM7 comes with one). Essentially, you’ll be starting fresh with all-new accessories in the TM7 box. On the bright side, the TM7 package is complete with everything you need to get cooking right away (mixing bowl, measuring cup/lid cap, spatula, basket, butterfly whisk, Varoma set, etc. are all included).
Learning Curve: If you’ve used a TM5 for years, you’ll adapt to the TM7 quickly. The core of Thermomix cooking remains the same – but expect a short period of “Wow, it can do that now?” as you discover new features. You might need to get used to the absence of the twist knob and the presence of more on-screen menus. Overall, though, TM7 is very user-friendly, arguably more so than TM5 thanks to its guided interface.
For TM5 owners, we confidently say: Yes, the upgrade to TM7 is worth it (budget permitting). You’ll be catching up on two generations of innovation. Many TM5 users skipped TM6 waiting for a bigger leap; TM7 delivers that leap in spades. The cooking experience is richer, faster, and more convenient. You’ll likely wonder how you managed without things like automatic recipe syncing or the bigger Varoma once you have them.
(Fun fact: If you’re upgrading from a TM31 (the ’04 model), TM7 will feel like science fiction – guided cooking, touchscreens, and automatic locking lids were unimaginable when you bought your TM31! It’s a testament to Thermomix’s longevity that a 20-year-old machine is still useful, but you will love what TM7 brings.)
Final Verdict: Should You Upgrade?
If you own a TM5 or older: Highly consider upgrading. The TM7 will revolutionize your kitchen routine with modern features, more capacity, and updated safety. It’s a big investment, but if you use your Thermomix regularly, the TM7’s enhancements will pay off in ease and enjoyment. (Also, your old machine likely has good resale or trade-in value to offset the cost – talk to your Thermomix advisor about options.)
If you own a TM6: Maybe upgrade, maybe hold. This one is a toss-up. The TM7 is the superior machine on paper, but the TM6 is still excellent. Ask yourself: are the new features (especially the larger screen and quieter operation) game-changers for you, or can you happily continue with TM6 for a couple more years? If you’re an early adopter type or your TM6 is heavily used daily (meaning any improvement in convenience/noise is worth it), go for the TM7 and enjoy. However, if your TM6 is doing everything you need just fine, you’re not missing out on core functionality by sticking with it for now. Perhaps wait until TM7 has been out longer – Vorwerk sometimes releases software updates or even accessory bundles that add value to the purchase. In a year, the TM7 might come down in wait time or have more accessories available.
If you have no Thermomix yet: This section is mostly for upgraders, but let’s be clear – if you’re trying to choose between buying a discounted TM6 or the latest TM7 as your first Thermomix, the TM7 is the one to get if budget allows. Vorwerk UK stopped selling the TM6 by mid-2025, which shows their focus is now entirely on TM7. The TM7’s improvements ensure the longest future support and best features. It’s truly the state-of-the-art in smart kitchen appliances.
In summary, each person’s situation is different. Upgrading to the TM7 can significantly enhance your cooking experience, but the TM6 remains a formidable kitchen helper. We hope this comparison helped clarify the differences. Thermomix fans are in a great spot with both models – either way, you’ll be cooking with one of the best appliances on the market. Happy cooking, and if you have more questions about upgrading or features, check out the FAQs below!
FAQ (Thermomix TM7 Upgrades)
Q: What are the biggest differences between Thermomix TM7 and TM6?
A: The TM7’s major upgrades over TM6 include a much larger 10-inch touch screen (versus 6.8″ on TM6) for easier recipe viewing, an internal locking mechanism with no external arms, a quieter and more powerful motor, and new cooking modes like open-lid cooking and browning. The Varoma steaming attachment on TM7 is 45% larger (6.8 L capacity) than TM6’s, allowing bigger batch steaming. The TM7’s mixing bowl is insulated and stays cooler outside. Overall, TM7 refines the TM6 with better usability and a sleeker design, while core functions (chopping, mixing, etc.) remain similar.
Q: Can I use TM6 recipes on the TM7?
A: Yes – all your existing Cookidoo recipes for TM6 work perfectly on the TM7. The TM7 is backward compatible with TM6 (and TM5) recipes, so you’ll have instant access to the full recipe library. In Cookidoo, you can even filter recipes by appliance model, but virtually every TM6 recipe can be made on TM7 without issues. Some recipes may get minor tweaks to leverage TM7’s new modes, but there’s no loss of content by switching to TM7.
Q: Do TM6 accessories and bowls fit the TM7?
A: Generally no, with a couple of exceptions. The TM7 has a new bowl design and lid, so your TM6 bowl, Varoma, lid, and blade are not cross-compatible. You will need to use the dedicated TM7 bowl set and Varoma that come with the machine. However, some accessories that go inside the bowl do work: for example, the Blade Cover & Peeler attachment from TM6 fits in TM7 (same bowl diameter), and the Thermomix temperature Sensor (if you have one) also works. The Butterfly whisk and Simmering basket are redesigned for TM7 (they click into the new lid differently), so you should use the TM7 versions provided. In summary, plan to use the new accessories that come with TM7, and check with Thermomix for any specific add-ons’ compatibility.
Q: Is the Thermomix TM7 quieter than TM6 and TM5?
A: Yes – one of the pleasant surprises of TM7 is how much quieter it is, especially at low speeds. Thanks to an improved motor and insulated bowl, the TM7 produces significantly less noise when stirring or kneading. For example, at stirring speed, TM7 is around 30 dB, roughly half the noise of TM6 at the same speed. When chopping at high speeds or using Turbo, you will still hear noise (it’s a powerful machine after all), but overall TM7 reduces the kitchen racket. TM5 and TM6 can seem loud in comparison, so if noise level is important to you (say you have sleeping kids nearby while cooking), the TM7 is a nice upgrade.
Q: My TM5 is working fine – what would I gain by upgrading to TM7?
A: Upgrading from TM5 to TM7 brings a huge leap in technology and features. You’d gain built-in Wi-Fi with direct access to 100k+ guided recipes on the TM7’s screen (TM5 required external recipe chips or Cook-Key), a massive touchscreen interface, more cooking modes (slow cook, sous-vide, ferment, etc. that TM5 lacks), higher temperature cooking (TM5 max ~120°C vs TM7 up to 160°C in certain modes), a larger steamer, and a generally faster, quieter machine. The TM7 also has improvements like a self-locking lid and better safety systems. If you use your TM5 often, a TM7 can modernize and simplify your routine (no more manual downloading recipes – it’s all integrated). The core Thermomix functions (weighing, chopping, mixing) are similar, but everything around those functions is more advanced and convenient in TM7.
👉 Ready to take the next step? Book a Free Demo: Curious how Thermomix TM7 can fit into your routine? Book a free Thermomix demo to see meal prep in action. You’ll get tips on batch cooking and time-saving tricks tailored to your needs – and maybe even some tasty make-ahead meal ideas to try! 🚀
When you’re ready to purchase, remember that Thermomix can only be purchased through an official Advisor – Life With Thermomix is here to help you through the process. You’ll be getting a game-changing appliance that will serve you for years.
Upgrade your kitchen today with Thermomix and join thousands of UK and Ireland home cooks who cook smarter, not harder. Contact Life With Thermomix to Book a Demo, ask questions, and get personal guidance on ordering your Thermomix. We’re here to ensure you choose the right Thermomix for you and get cooking like a pro in no time!
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