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Stand Mixers Buying Guide

Stand mixers  are a handy tool that can be used in the kitchen and contain more power than hand mixers. They contain beaters attached to a large apparatus that leaves room for a steel mixing bowl  that locks in place during blending. Stand mixers can be useful time savers, as they allow you to do other things while it is mixing. Not everyone needs a heavy duty  mixer, but if you are a serious baker or mashed potato  eater, it is the best machine on the market for you.

Types

Rotating Disc Stand Mixers 

  • Beaters are mounted on a rotating disc.
  • The "planetary movement" of the beaters keep ingredients from getting stuck on the side of the bowl.
  • They provide a shorter mixing time.
  • Set it and go -- no need to watch this mixer, it will be fine on its own.

Fixed-Beater Stand Mixers 

  • The technology often found in professional models is featured in these mixers.
  • Beaters are fixed while bowl rotates.
  • Takes twice the time as a rotating disc model.
  • Mixer must be watched and stopped frequently to clean unmixed ingredients on the sides of bowl.

Features

  • Bowl Size
    • Bowls come in different sizes, ranging from 4-7 quarts.
    • For extra convenience, opt for a model in which the bowls have handles.
  • Mixing Attachments
    • Depending on your baking and cooking needs, you may prefer to have more options when it comes to add-on attachments.
    • Dough hooks,  wire whisks,  and blending rods  are just some of the options that will typically come with a mixer. These machines can also sometimes be used as a citrus juicer,  ice cream maker,  or even food grinder. 
    • Look for attachments that are non-stick or stainless steel for easy cleaning.
  • Power
    • The wattage of a stand mixer is more important when it comes to speed than the number of speed settings, so when comparing models, look at watt capacity.
    • Typical power ranges from 300-900 watts.
  • Speeds
    • 3-15 speed models are available.
    • Remember that a model with 15 speeds isn't necessarily faster than a model with 14 speeds. More options just allow for smoother transitions between speeds.
  • Warranty
    • The longer the warranty, the better the chances are that the mixer will last.
  • Weight
    • The heavier the stand mixer, the less chance of it moving during operation.

Major Manufacturers

Product Recommendations

Sunbeam Heritage Stand Mixer-Silver 

This stand mixer has 450 watts of power and comes with dual motors and 14 variable speeds for a rapid, no mess mixing experience. The Sunbeam Heritage is made out of heavy duty die-cast metal and has many useful accessories such as 2 bowls plus a whisk and dough hook. This mixer provides the utmost in style without sacrificing quality. Great for labor-intensive mixing jobs that can't be completed by a hand mixer.

Sunbeam 2591 350-Watt MixMaster with Stainless Steel Bowl 

This mixer has 12 speeds, a tilt-locking head, and a comfort grip handle for convenient and easy use. The stainless steel bowl is great for mixing and fits up to 4 quarts of liquid. The mixer also comes with chrome beaters for versatile mixing.

Related Guides

Whisks

Hand Mixers

Blenders

Food Processors

Juicers

International Resources

For this resource in your home country, please see:
FR: Guide des mixeurs