I Just Got My Hands on SMEG’s Iconic Forte Stand Mixer – It Combines Retro Design With Serious Time-Saving Power
The iconic retro style is back, but with some sweet modern upgrades
No brand blends retro charm with modern performance quite like SMEG. Time and again, they prove that convenience does not have to come wrapped in minimalist, utilitarian styling.
The new SMEG Forte Stand Mixer, available from Williams Sonoma, is the latest example. Having finally got my hands on one, I can already say that it feels like a genuine contender to become one of the best stand mixers.
The beautifully crafted exterior has quickly become the focal point of my kitchen, a rare appliance that earns its place on the countertop without looking like clutter. Here’s why I’m so excited about it.
Available in Pastel Green (pictured), Cream, Pastel Blue, Red, Pink, White, and Black, the Forte stand mixer is designed for power and precision, tackling more intensive mixing more easily, working both everyday recipes and heavier doughs smoothly.
I will admit that despite baking for the better part of the last 15 years, I have always opted for the handheld option in the hand mixer vs stand mixer debate. Having a small kitchen means that a smaller tool is more convenient and does just about the same job, right?
I have used the SMEG Forte Stand Mixer once since it arrived, and I am in the midst of my review process, but I can say right off the bat that it is the countertop upgrade I did not know I was missing. When working through my first test (a classic Victoria sponge cake), it halved the time it took to make, and my arms didn't ache at the end of it.
Sitting neatly at the edge of my counter, it is surprisingly compact, and the stunning vintage design means it looks more like an art piece than a kitchen workhorse.
The Forte offers a higher-performance spec compared to the original SMEG retro stand mixer we reviewed. With a more powerful motor, the new release promises more mixing power, especially when it comes to mixing heavy doughs for bread. This is something I will be testing later on with my classic focaccia recipe.
Equally intriguing, however, is the new folding speed, designed to gently incorporate ingredients without knocking out air or overworking delicate batters. For keen bakers, that could be one of the most valuable additions, and it will likely be the feature that makes or breaks the mixer for me, as it will determine how well you can make the most of your stand mixer.
Another welcome improvement is the inclusion of a flex-edge beater as standard. In my view, this is one of the most useful stand mixer attachments available. The rubber-edged design continuously scrapes the sides of the bowl as it mixes, eliminating the pockets of flour and unmixed ingredients that often require manual intervention. It is a small detail that makes a noticeable difference to both consistency and convenience.
While I am yet to push it to the max, I am incredibly excited by what lies in store, especially if the early swathes of five-star reviews on Amazon are anything to go by, with customers loving the colors and, most importantly, dubbing the expensive appliance a smart KitchenAid alternative that's worth the spend.
What to Shop
If you're looking to elevate your baking setup, SMEG offers a range of coordinating retro-inspired appliances that bring both style and function to the kitchen.
To help you build the ultimate baking station, I’ve curated my favourite picks alongside a selection of non-toxic kitchen essentials designed to support every recipe.
All prices were correct at the time of publication.
SMEG has launched the Classico stand mixer alongside the Forte. This model, with its lower price point, still comes with the 10-speed settings and smooth start function, but without as much power for tough doughs. It is better suited to the casual home baker than the baking aficionado.
For the more occasional baker who works with smaller batches less frequently, a hand mixer more than suffices. The SMEG hand mixer still has that retro style, with an ergonomic handle for easy use and control.
Baking is a precision art, so you will need precision tools for the best results. These retro weigh scales have a digital display for accurate readings.
The original non-toxic ceramic bakeware set from Caraway includes a large handled baking sheet, a medium baking sheet, a rectangular pan, a 12-hole muffin pan, a square pan, a loaf pan, a circle pan, a large cooling rack, and two storage organizers.
Available in 12 unique colors, and two- and four-slice sizes, the SMEG toaster has six toasting levels, bagel, defrost, and reheat functions to help you start your breakfast routine smoothly – and in style.
With seven colorways to match the toasters, the SMEG retro-style kettle is made from high-quality stainless steel with a glossy enamel finish. This stovetop kettle features a 2.3L capacity and is compatible with induction, gas, ceramic, and electric stovetops.
There has never been a better time to invest in SMEG appliances, with the new SMEG 2026 color of the year, Moonlight, dropping across their appliance range. It's the dreamy neutral that will fit into any kitchen.
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