Which Stand Mixer is Right for Me?

Things to consider:

• All KitchenAid^® stand mixers utilize the same unique planetary action, regardless of mixer size.
• All models have sufficient power to accommodate the bowl capacity.

The Two Types of Stand Mixers:

Part of choosing a mixer is a personal preference.

• Some prefer tilting the head back to access the beater easily.  
• Some choose bowl lift mixers because they prefer the professional look.
• Some find it more difficult to remove the bowl and beaters on a bowl lift mixer, mainly if they have been accustomed to a tilt head, while others have no issue.
• It sometimes helps to go to a store and assemble the bowl and the beaters to see which "feels" best to you.

Do you need a large capacity mixer?

• Do you regularly make double or triple batches?
• Do you have a large family?
• Do you make a lot of bread?
  • You can make bread in any size stand mixer, but if you make large quantities, you may prefer a model with a spiral knead dough hook, which comes with select models of bowl lift stand mixers.

• If so, you may prefer a bowl lift mixer, which comes in capacities of 4.5 to 8 quarts.

Is color a consideration?

• KitchenAid^® makes over 50 colors and finishes.
• Not all models come in all colors.
• The Artisan model has the most color and finishes options.

Space considerations:

Tilt head mixers are slightly shorter (3") than bowl lift mixers, which can make a difference if you have low hanging upper kitchen cabinets.

Tilt-Head Height: 14.0"

Bowl-Lift Height: varies from 16 7/16" to 17." 

Do you like to put your beaters in the dishwasher?

• Some models come with white-coated beaters, which can go in the dishwasher.
• Other models come with burnished aluminum beaters, which must be hand washed and dried immediately.
• KitchenAid^® sells replacement beaters in both finishes for all mixers.

Do you prefer a handle on your bowl?

KitchenAid makes bowls in Glass, ceramic and stainless in various sizes with several handle options:

• Some models come with a bowl with no handle.
• Others have a flat "strap" handle.
• Others have a comfortable, ergonomic handle.

What type of bowl do you prefer?

Glass 

• Clear Glass with measurement markings.
  •  Available for all tilt head and select bowl-lift models. 
• Frosted Glass - tilt head only
• Hammered Glass - tilt head only 

Ceramic - decorative colors - tilt head only

Stainless Steel - from 3 quarts to 8-quart capacities available.  

• Available for both bowl lift and tilt head models.

NOTE:  It's nice to have an extra bowl when doing holiday baking, or to have a spare when one is in the dishwasher.

Pouring Shield:

• Some models come with pouring shields, to aid in adding ingredients, and prevent splashing.
• KitchenAid^®  sells pouring shields for almost every model, except for the glass bowl models.