KitchenAid mixers have long been a favorite in households and professional kitchens as long as I can remember. With their iconic design, exceptional performance, and unwavering reliability, these stand mixers have consistently proven their worth in the culinary arena. They’ve made food preparation a breeze and transformed ordinary meal preparations into an enjoyable experience for both amateur and professional chefs alike.
As experts in the kitchen gear space, we understand the importance of finding the perfect mixer to suit your needs. That’s why we’ve taken the time to try and test various KitchenAid mixers to provide you with an insightful guide that will help you make an informed decision.
In this article, we aim to help you choose a Kitchenaid stand mixer to suit your needs and requirements. We will aim to try and examine the different types of KitchenAid mixers, and share our hands-on experiences with different models.
Join us as we explore the world of KitchenAid mixers, and let us help you find the perfect companion for your culinary adventures.
Kitchenaid Mixers Buying Guide
When choosing a KitchenAid mixer, it’s important to consider the various features that will help you make the most of your investment. Here, we break down the key factors to take into account when selecting the right KitchenAid mixer for your needs.
Power and capacity
The motor power of a KitchenAid mixer directly affects its performance and the volume of ingredients it can handle. A stronger motor can handle heavier doughs and larger quantities, while lower-wattage models are more suited for everyday mixing tasks. Consider the type and volume of cooking and baking you’ll be doing to determine the right power and capacity for your needs.
Quartz size
KitchenAid mixers come in different quartz sizes, which refers to the capacity of the mixing bowl. Smaller quartz sizes are suitable for home cooks who prepare smaller meals and those starting out, while larger sizes are ideal for those who frequently entertain or cook for larger groups. Assess your typical cooking and baking needs to determine the most suitable quartz size for you.
Speed settings
KitchenAid mixers typically come with multiple speed settings, allowing you to control the mixing process and achieve the perfect consistency for your recipes. Look for a mixer with at least 5-10 speed settings to ensure versatility and precision in your cooking and baking endeavors.
Attachments and accessories
One of the main benefits of a KitchenAid mixer is its compatibility with a wide range of attachments and accessories. These additional attachments can significantly expand the mixer’s capabilities, turning it into a versatile kitchen appliance.
Common attachments include dough hooks, flat beaters, and wire whisks, while specialized attachments like pasta rollers, meat grinders, and food processors are also available. Be sure to check which attachments are included with the mixer and which additional ones can be purchased separately to fit your specific needs.
Design and color options
KitchenAid mixers are known for their iconic design and wide range of color options. When selecting a mixer, consider the aesthetics of your kitchen and choose a model that complements your existing décor. With various sizes, shapes, and colors available, you’re sure to find a KitchenAid mixer that fits your personal style.
Price and warranty
KitchenAid mixers can range in price from affordable to high-end, so it’s essential to establish a budget before you start shopping. Keep in mind that investing in a higher-priced model may provide better performance and durability in the long run.
Additionally, consider the warranty offered by the manufacturer, as this can be an indicator of the mixer’s quality and longevity.
By evaluating these key features, you’ll be better equipped to choose the perfect KitchenAid mixer for your kitchen and culinary needs.
KitchenAid Stand Mixer Reviews
Best Overall: Artisan® Series 5 Quart Tilt-Head Stand Mixer
After using the KitchenAid KSM150PSER Artisan Tilt-Head Stand Mixer for a few weeks, I was blown away by its performance and versatility. As a baking enthusiast who often hosts weekend brunches for friends and family, this mixer significantly elevated my culinary game.
However, due to its size and weight, I ultimately decided to gift it to my parents, as it took up considerable space in my smaller kitchen. Despite this, I can confidently say that the mixer offers the best overall combination of size, power, and value for money. Let me share some personal experiences that have made me appreciate this mixer.
Key Features
- 5-quart stainless steel bowl with comfortable handle: The spacious bowl allowed me to prepare large batches of dough and batter, which was a game-changer when hosting brunch for friends and family. The comfortable handle made it easy to lift and pour, reducing the strain on my hands and wrists.
- 10-speed settings: The wide range of speed settings provided me with the flexibility to tackle various recipes with ease. From gently folding delicate ingredients to quickly whipping cream, I could find the perfect speed for any task, leading to better results and less guesswork.
- Tilt-head design for easy access to the bowl: This design made it incredibly simple to add ingredients and change attachments, streamlining the entire cooking process. I no longer had to struggle with removing the bowl from a fixed mixer, making my time in the kitchen more enjoyable.
- Over 12 attachments available for various culinary tasks: The versatility offered by the numerous attachments allowed me to expand my culinary horizons. I experimented with homemade pasta, sausages, and even ice cream, discovering new recipes and techniques that I would not have explored otherwise.
Things we like
- Saves time and effort when preparing bread dough, cakes, and other baked goods
- Perfect for blending meat to create mouth-watering burgers and meatloaf
- Attachments make it easy to explore new recipes and techniques, such as homemade pasta and sausages
- Simple cleanup and maintenance.
Limitations
- Quite heavy and takes up counter space
- Some attachments may not be as effective as dedicated tools, like the pasta maker.
While testing the mixer, I invited friends over for a homemade pizza night. Using the dough hook attachment, I easily prepared the perfect pizza dough, saving me both time and energy. The mixer’s powerful motor and various speed settings allowed for effortless blending of ingredients, resulting in a deliciously crispy crust that everyone raved about.
In conclusion, the KitchenAid KSM150PSER Artisan Tilt-Head Stand Mixer is the best overall option for those with ample kitchen space, offering unmatched power, versatility, and value for money. For those with smaller kitchens like mine, the KitchenAid Artisan Mini Series may be a more suitable choice.
Best Premium:KitchenAid Pro Line Series 7-Quart Bowl-Lift Stand Mixer
This is one of the more expensive models, I also tested test out the KitchenAid Pro Line Series 7-Quart Bowl-Lift Stand Mixer, and I’m excited to share my thoughts on this powerful kitchen appliance. In this review, I’ll break down the key features, pros and cons, and best uses for this mixer, based on my personal experience and the information provided above.
The KitchenAid Pro Line Series 7-Quart Bowl-Lift Stand Mixer boasts a range of impressive features, ensuring a top-notch user experience. With a generous 7-quart capacity, this mixer is ideal for handling both large and small batches, meeting the needs of any home chef. The durable, built-to-last metal construction guarantees long-lasting performance, while the 10-speed settings provide versatility for various mixing tasks.
In addition, the bowl-lift design ensures maximum stability during operation, making it perfect for tackling heavy dough and dense mixtures. Furthermore, the mixer is compatible with over 10 optional hub-powered attachments (sold separately), which allows users to expand their culinary skills and explore new recipes. Available in a range of colors, the iconic design of the KitchenAid Pro Line Series 7-Quart Bowl-Lift Stand Mixer seamlessly blends with any kitchen décor.
Things I liked
- The powerful motor handles heavy dough and large batches with ease
- Quieter operation compared to older models
- Iconic design and a range of color options to suit your kitchen aesthetics
- Easy to clean, dishwasher-safe mixing bowl
- A wide range of available attachments for versatile cooking and baking
Things that could be better
- Dough hook and whisk attachments may not touch the bottom of the bowl, affecting mixing efficiency.
- Painted attachments may chip over time, requiring replacement
- The larger bowl may not fit in the top rack of some dishwashers
From kneading dough for homemade bread to whipping up a large batch of cookies, this mixer has made my culinary adventures so much easier and more enjoyable.
One of the best use cases I found was preparing pizza dough. The mixer’s powerful motor and large capacity allowed me to make enough dough for multiple pizzas in a single go, saving me both time and effort. Additionally, the mixer’s stability during operation ensured a consistent kneading process, resulting in a perfectly smooth and elastic dough.
I also used the mixer to make a double batch of cake batter, and it handled the task effortlessly. The 10-speed settings made it easy to achieve the perfect consistency, and the pouring shield prevented any spills or messes.
Overall, the KitchenAid Pro Line Series 7-Quart Bowl-Lift Stand Mixer is a powerful, versatile, and stylish kitchen appliance that can handle a wide range of cooking and baking tasks. While there are a few drawbacks related to the attachments, the overall performance and convenience of this mixer make it a worthwhile investment for avid home cooks and bakers.
Best Budget:KitchenAid Artisan Mini Series Tilt-Head Stand Mixer
Among the budget Kitchenaid mixers, I tried out the KitchenAid KSM3311XAQ Artisan Mini Series Tilt-Head Stand Mixer. It is only a 3.5-quart mixer in a beautiful Aqua Sky Blue color (there are other colors). As someone with limited kitchen space, I was excited to explore this machine.
Priced at $299 (at the time of writing), the KitchenAid Artisan Mini Stand Mixer is a budget-friendly option within the KitchenAid lineup. Its compact design and versatile performance make it an excellent choice for small kitchens or those seeking a more affordable KitchenAid experience.
The Artisan Mini is 25% lighter and has a 20% smaller footprint compared to the KitchenAid Classic Stand Mixer, perfectly suiting my small kitchen. Yes, in comparison to the KitchenAid Pro Line, it’s not as powerful, but pound for pound it packs a stronger punch for its compact size and comparative price.
It’s compatible with all attachments, excluding bowls and beaters, and the tilt-head design allows easy access to the bowl and attached beater or accessory for effortless ingredient addition. This mixer offers the same power and functionality as its larger counterparts but in a more convenient and space-saving package.
One of the best uses I found for this mini Artisan mixer was baking batches of cookies. Its powerful motor handled the thick cookie dough without any issues. I also tried making batches of dough and meatloaf, and the mixer performed excellently in both cases. However, I did notice that the speed setting lever was a bit difficult to move.
Things I liked
- Space-saving: Ideal for small apartments or limited counter space
- Versatile: Handles various tasks such as bread dough, cookie dough, meatloaf, and mashed potatoes
- Sufficient capacity: 3.5-quart bowl is suitable for small-scale cooking or baking needs
- Durable: Withstands long-term use without losing performance
Things that could be better
- Difficulty in adjusting speed settings: The speed setting lever can be hard to move
- Limited attachment options: The smaller size may lead to limited options for attachments
- Attachment connection: Connecting and disconnecting attachments can be challenging
- Smaller bowl size: Compared to larger models, the 3.5-quart size may not be sufficient for larger or more complex recipes
Overall, I was left impressed with the KitchenAid Artisan Mini Series Tilt-Head Stand Mixer. Its compact size, powerful performance, and eye-catching design make it a valuable addition to any small kitchen. It is the ideal starter Kitchenaid stand mixer for those newbie home chefs with a limited budget.
KitchenAid 6 Qt. Professional 600 Series Bowl-Lift Stand Mixer
This one I haven’t tried but heard rave reviews about is KitchenAid KP26M1XOB 6 Qt. Professional 600 Series Bowl-Lift Stand Mixer. My brother decided to buy one of these in his new house and has been using it for a few weeks now. He’s been talking about how fantastic it is, so I thought I’d share some of the key features and his experience with it.
When my brother first got the KitchenAid KP26M1XOB 6 Qt. Professional 600 Series Bowl-Lift Stand Mixer, he couldn’t stop raving about the various features it offers. The Multipurpose Attachment Hub is the feature he appreciated the most. With over 12 attachments available, it transformed his stand mixer into an all-around kitchen appliance. He can now make fresh pasta from scratch, shred cheese in seconds, and do so much more without needing to purchase separate appliances. In the summer he plans to use it as an ice cream maker.
The 6-quart stainless steel bowl that comes with the mixer has a comfortable handle, making it convenient to use. My brother told me it has the capacity to mix dough for 13 dozen cookies or 8 loaves of bread in a single batch. Plus, the dishwasher-safe bowl makes cleaning up a breeze.
One of the most remarkable features he highlighted was the 67-Point Planetary Mixing Action. This ensures 67 touchpoints per rotation around the bowl for thorough ingredient incorporation. The beater, dough hook, or wire whip rotates around the bowl, providing excellent coverage for comprehensive mixing.
The Bowl Lift Design of the KitchenAid 6 Qt. Professional 600 Series Stand Mixer has been a game-changer for my brother. It not only handles heavy, dense dough mixtures with ease but also allows for better control when adding ingredients.
Things I liked
- Powerful and efficient motor for handling dense mixtures
- Large capacity bowl, perfect for making large batches
- Versatile with a variety of optional attachments
- Sturdy build and durable materials
Things that could be better
- Quite heavy, not easily portable
- Can be a bit noisy at higher speeds
Best Use Cases
He’s also been experimenting with various attachments, like the pasta maker and meat grinder, which has expanded his culinary repertoire to make home-cooked sausages. However, his wife did mention that the mixer is quite heavy and isn’t something you’d want to move around frequently. Additionally, it can be a bit noisy at higher speeds, but this hasn’t been a deal-breaker for him.
Overall, both he and his wife are thrilled with his KitchenAid 6 Qt. Professional 600 Series Bowl-Lift Stand Mixer and has been recommending it to everyone. He believes it’s a worthwhile investment for anyone who loves to cook and bake, as it simplifies the process and opens up new possibilities in the kitchen.
Kitchenaid Mixer FAQs
How we tested the best KitchenAid mixers?
To test the best KitchenAid mixers, I started by researching the most popular and highly-rated models available in the market. I then used each mixer extensively for various tasks, such as kneading dough, whipping cream, and mixing batters. I also tested their compatibility with different attachments, like pasta makers and food grinders, to gauge their versatility. Furthermore, I assessed their build quality, durability, ease of use, and overall performance to determine the best KitchenAid mixers.
Are KitchenAid mixers really worth it?
Yes, KitchenAid mixers are worth the investment for many home cooks and bakers due to their durability, powerful motors, and versatile range of attachments. They simplify and speed up various cooking tasks, making it easier to prepare large batches and experiment with new recipes. While they can be expensive, their high-quality construction and long-lasting performance make them a worthwhile addition to many kitchens.
Is tilt-head or bowl-lift better?
The choice between tilt-head and bowl-lift mixers depends on personal preferences and the type of tasks you’ll be using the mixer for. Tilt-head mixers allow for easy access to the bowl and attachments, making it simple to add ingredients or change tools. Bowl-lift mixers, on the other hand, provide more stability and are generally better for heavy-duty tasks or larger batches. Consider your specific needs and kitchen space when choosing between the two types.
Which KitchenAid Stand Mixer Is Right for You?
To determine the right KitchenAid stand mixer for you, consider factors such as kitchen space, the types of tasks you’ll be using the mixer for, and your budget. If you have a spacious kitchen and need a powerful, versatile mixer, the KitchenAid KSM150PSER Artisan Tilt-Head Stand Mixer is an excellent option. For smaller kitchens or a more compact solution, the KitchenAid Artisan Mini Series Tilt-Head Stand Mixer 3.5Q may be more suitable.
Why trust Kitchenpicks?
You can trust Kitchenpicks because we are dedicated to providing unbiased and reliable product reviews, based on thorough research, hands-on testing, and personal experience. Our goal is to help you make informed decisions when purchasing kitchen appliances and gear, ensuring you invest in products that best suit your needs and preferences.
Final thoughts
In conclusion, finding the best KitchenAid stand mixer for your needs involves considering factors like kitchen space, intended usage, and budget. Our guide aims to help you make an informed decision by highlighting the key features, pros, and cons of the top options available.
We hope that by going through our recommendations, you are now one step closer to choosing the perfect KitchenAid mixer tailored to your unique requirements!