My $5 no name one died after two years (probably used at least once a month).

Have a Hamilton Beach one now - I love that the blade is detachable.  http://www.walmart.com/ip/Hamilton-Beach-2-Speed-Hand-Blender/15758914

I have a Braun from my apartment days.  Yes, it lasted this long and no, not because it does not get used (that would be my electric knife my mom insisted I needed!).  I use it for so many things, so easy, and simple to clean and store.

I have a cute red cuisinart one that I never use. I always forget I have it.

They are also great for vinaigrette salad dressings!

We are going to look at a Moulinex.  Reviews on it look good.

I have an old Braun, and like it.  Does just what it should.  Mostly, i use it in pea soup or any soup that you want pureed pr partly pureed. 

I do have a Vitamix blender that I use for some dressings and regularly for smoothies and some marinades.  It is very easy to clean and use, and I keep it handy in the kitchen.  But, a hand blender is the best for a soup.  Just whizz it right in the pot you cook it in.  Also good for mushing up food for babies. 

I donated my blender because I never used it.  It was stored in the basement and just not worth the effort of bringing it upstairs.

They are the same thing.  I have a kitchen aid now. My old one (different brand, but I don't remember which) died last year, but I had it a long time before it went.   I have not had a brand I don't like.  But I do love using one.  So much easier for hot liquids than the blender. Fantastic for soups. 

And since I keep my blender in the walk-in pantry, it is usually easier to just pull it out of the drawer than to get out the blender in the first place.  Cleaning is easier too. 

First, is there a difference between hand and immersion blender or two names for the same thing?

Second, what brand do you have and what are the pros and cons of it?