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Which Stand Mixer is Right for Me?
Different Features of KitchenAid Stand Mixers
All KitchenAid® stand mixers utilize the same unique planetary action, regardless of mixer size. All models have sufficient power to accommodate the bowl capacity. KitchenAid® makes stand mixers in two styles, a myriad of colors, and sizes ranging from 3.5 to 8-quart capacities in various price ranges.
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 a professional look.
- Some find it more difficult to remove the bowls 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.
With so many choices, how do you determine which one is right for you?
Tilt-Head
The head of the mixer tilts back from the base, and the bowl is attached to the base.
- Capacity: 3.4, 4.5 and 5 quarts
- The tilt-head style makes it easy to access the beaters. Simply tilt the head back and remove them. The head locks into place when mixing.
- This type of mixer is also slightly shorter, so it is a consideration if you have low-hanging upper kitchen cabinets (2.5"-3" shorter).
Comparison of our two most popular tilt head models:
The Classic:
- 4.5-quart capacity
- White only
- No handle on the bowl
- No pouring shield
The Artisan:
This 5-quart model is our most popular mixer for many reasons:
- Our largest tilt-head mixer (5 quarts)
- The array of colors - the most of any model
- Pouring shield
- The ergonomic handle on the bowl
- Often comes with a rebate - either cash back or a free attachment
Bowl-Lift
The bowl sits on the "arms" of the mixer and is raised with a lever. The head of the mixer is stationary.
- Capacity: 4.5-8 quarts
- Large Capacity
- Spiral Knead dough hook on select models
- Professional look
- Many models to choose from
The Artisan Mini:
If space and weight are significant considerations, the Artisan Mini is shorter, lighter, and has a smaller footprint, but has the same mixing action and robust motor.
- 3.5-quart capacity.
- Mini Mixer. Powerful Performance.
- The Artisan® Mini tilt-head stand mixer makes up to 5 dozen cookies in a single batch, with the same power as the full-size KitchenAid® tilt-head Stand Mixers while being 20% smaller, and 25% lighter*.
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 finish 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 17.0"
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 are 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.