Stand mixers are kitchen workhorses. They need to be able to handle everything from the most delicate mixing to tough kneading without protest, which is why I was so excited to get my hands on the new super-powerful SMEG Forte Stand Mixer.

I put the 750-watt mixer to the test using my favorite tried-and-tested recipes, and it's safe to say that it is a fantastic addition to the SMEG retro-style lineup, delivering stellar baked results every time and easily vying for a spot on the best stand mixers list.

That said, there are a few tiny snags in using the Smeg Forte Stand Mixer that knocked just half a star off of my final verdict. Here's why I still think it can be worth the investment, and the small details to take into account.

Product Specifications: KitchenAid Artisan Plus 5 Quart Stand Mixer

Design and First Impressions

The SMEG Forte Stand Mixer revives the same classic retro silhouette as the rest of the SMEG offerings, with a curvaceous outline that oozes style and pairs wonderfully with their existing toasters, kettles, and more. Much like the original SMEG 1950s Retro Stand Mixer we reviewed a few years ago, the Forte comes in seven classic SMEG colors, all with stainless steel bowls.

The mixer looks great straight out of the box. It arrived well packaged, in mostly recyclable packaging, using sturdy cardboard and a few fabric bags to prevent the plastic exterior and stainless steel bowl from being scratched. The individual accessories were tucked neatly inside, too.

As with any stand mixer, this thing is not light. Coming in at 21lbs, it is a little lighter than the new KitchenAid Artisan Plus Stand Mixer I reviewed alongside it, but it is still not easy to lift from shelves if you wish to store it away. After a particularly tough arm day at the gym, my partner had to move it onto a slightly higher shelf for me when I needed some extra counter space. For general day-to-day use, however, it is so pretty that I suggest leaving it in place on your counter as part of your kitchen decor. Small appliance slide mats, from Amazon, can make it easier to move if required.

After unboxing and rinsing the attachments to remove any factory dust, it was as simple as plugging it in and starting to bake. There are 11 speed settings, an increase of one from the original design, that play into the new, more powerful motor. The SMEG Forte boasts a 750-watt motor, up from their previous 600 watts, and over double that of the new KitchenAid. The idea is that this will limit the risk of burnout, a common problem that plagues heavily used stand mixers. The mixer also promises a slow start, which steadily increases the speed up to the selected setting to avoid ingredients flying out of the bowl. I found this to be somewhat effective, but it was not as gentle as other mixers I have used in the past.

The Forte comes with four attachments as standard: A stainless steel wire whisk, an aluminum dough hook, a paddle beater, and a flex-edge beater. They also include a clear plastic splash guard with a pouring spout that sits neatly on top of the bowl.

Performance

To thoroughly test the stand mixer, I tested four of my favorite recipes that would assess the appliance's ability to tackle everything from thick doughs to delicate cream:

The Cake Test

Victoria sponge cake is a very simple recipe, but it is easy to get wrong. Overmix, and you risk a dense, chewy cake that is miles from the lightweight, melt-in-the-mouth result you're hoping for. For this reason, I usually hand-mix this batter for precision.

I started by creaming together the butter and sugar using the flex-edge beater attachment. It powered through the mix easily enough, slowly reducing it down to a light and fluffy paste; however, I did notice some sticking around the edge of the bowl. I think this is because the flex-edge silicone only lines one side of the beater, meaning the other is exposed aluminum. As a result, you only get half the scraping power. I had to stop before adding more ingredients to scrape the edges down.

I proceeded as usual, alternating between adding the flour and eggs so as to prevent the batter from splitting. I did this on a low speed to avoid overmixing the dough, especially when adding the final few measures of flour. This is the part when I usually turn to folding the mix with a spoon slowly to keep the air in. The SMEG was a little heavy-handed for this, even on the lowest speed, but it incorporated everything evenly nonetheless. Power is this mixer's forte,' if you'll pardon the pun, more so than precision.

I admittedly shared and ate the cake too quickly and forgot to take a photo, but it came out evenly with no clumps of flour and rose nicely. It wasn't as fluffy as mixing by hand, but it was still perfectly passable.

The Whipped Cream Test

Whipping cream requires high speeds, so I had a good feeling that the SMEG Forte would excel here.

Adding plain double cream to the bowl, I turned the whisk attachment onto a mid-high setting and let it work. The slow start stopped cream from flying up to the splash guard, which was nice to see, even if it was not the slowest build-up I have ever seen in a mixer. It was a little loud in the process, but nothing uncomfortable. It was as expected from a motor of that size.

It very quickly thickened the cream to a spreadable consistency, ready to be spread onto my cake.

The Bread Test

With its more powerful motor, I paid particular attention to the bread test, making my standard focaccia dough. It was a lot easier than mixing by hand and produced a wonderfully airy bread that sprang up when compressed.

The process of making the dough raised a few concerns, however, most notably in the movement of the mixer head. As with most stand mixers, the speed is limited when using the dough hook to prevent burning out the motor, but that was no issue for me. I did find an issue in fitting the dough hook, however. The metal didn't slot together neatly and felt like it was scraping or catching on insertions, needing a bit of force to get it into place and twist to secure. It made the whole appliance feel a little bit less premium.

That said, even on the slowest speed setting, on a high-hydration dough, the head 'bounced' as it mixed. SMEG claims its head movement is there to mimic the natural movement of hands kneading dough for consistent results; however, this is a 'feature' most stand mixers struggle with, which can loosen the head joint over time. I am not entirely convinced by it. Overall, however, I didn't experience any damage in my time testing, nor did the appliance rock or otherwise move on the counter as I worked.

The handled bowl made the dough easy to move around while the dough was proofing, and all in all, I was very impressed by the texture of my sweet cinnamon sugar focaccia.

The Cookie Test

The final test is cookies, used to assess the mixer with another dough type, and the ease of moving the bowl from the counter to the fridge. I used my base cookie recipe for this to make a chewy chocolate-chunk treat.

This mix is usually a nightmare to make by hand, giving me a shoulder ache by the end, so it was nice to take some of the effort out. As with every other recipe, the paddle attachments distributed ingredients nicely, combining them evenly without any lumps or clumps. It also folded the chunks of chocolate evenly, with no sign of rocking or struggling as it worked.

As I refrigerate my cookie dough overnight (at the very least), I removed the bowl, covered it with foil, and put it in the fridge. The bowl is rather squat in size, being wider than it is tall, which made this very easy to do without having to adjust the height of my shelving. It didn't feel heavy in my grip, either, even with the dough inside.

After baking, the cookies were perfectly chewy, with crisp edges that gave way to an almost Stroop-waffle-esque interior. It was another easy win.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Cleaning the SMEG Forte Stand Mixer was easy. The removable components are dishwasher safe, with the exception of the wire whisk. I hand-washed all of the pieces and found that even sticky bread dough came away with ease after a small stint soaking to loosen the oils. I always use a soft dish sponge and non-toxic soap, such as the Attitude Dish Soap from Walmart.

The exterior of the appliance, being shiny plastic, can then be buffed down with a damp cloth and dried to remove splatters and fingerprints.

It was as I was washing the bowl after the cookies that I realised that I had damaged it. When portioning cookies, I have always used my metal ice cream scoop from Walmart. It helps me achieve nice, even balls of dough for evenly sized cookies. I had used the same tool to portion dough from my KitchenAid with no issue, and given that stainless steel is a metal utensil safe, I used it without a second thought in the SMEG. After washing, the deep scratches made themselves known.

I flicked back through the manual and couldn't find any warnings against using metal in the bowl, so I didn't put this down to user error. That said, it is important to note that this bowl is more delicate than it looks.

How The SMEG Forte Stand Mixer Compares

When trialling stand mixers, I tested the Smeg Forte alongside the KitchenAid Artisan Plus Stand Mixer. Both delivered great results on the same bakes, and I would be hard-pressed to tell them apart if I were blindfolded. That said, the process of using each machine varied, and put the KitchenAid half a star ahead.

Both machines come at a premium price so far as stand mixers are concerned; however, for $50 more, the Artisan Plus offers greater precision control, including a folding speed and a bowl light. Even with a more powerful motor, these were two features I missed severely when using the SMEG Forte.

The general consensus online seems to agree that the Forte, while a great option, may not live up to alternatives. Another professional review, for instance, experienced the bowl rocking under the force of the mixer. While I did not experience this myself, it suggests that it might not be quite sturdy enough to withstand its own amped-up motor.

Shopper reviews are more positive, with the bulk of the praise falling on the cult-favorite retro design. Many Amazon shoppers, for instance, love that it matches their existing SMEG investments. Giving it five stars, shopper M commented, 'I love to bake and was finding making bread and similar products tedious due to the amount of hand kneading. The initial shock and slight buyer's remorse due to the price were instantly gone upon my first use! This machine can handle all types of dough, cookies, squares, buns, etc. If you are looking for a stand mixer and want something sturdy that can get the job done, I highly recommend this product!'

Of the one-star reviews, of which there are very few, customers report a range of issues from cords arriving broken to the tilt head mechanism not holding, and even the appliance not always turning on. None of us appeared to have the same issues, which suggests to me that there may be some quality-control concerns with the odd few appliances. It is worth noting that the overall reception is very positive, however, and these mark only a small section of shoppers.

Should You Buy The SMEG Forte Stand Mixer?

All in all, if you value aesthetics and bake occasionally, I do recommend the SMEG Forte Stand Mixer. It ultimately performed well on all of our tests, delivering tasty baked goods, but it just fell a little short in comparison to others on the market in terms of operation. It wouldn't suit someone running a cake business from their home, but it is a fun-looking addition for the occasional home cook.

If you already have an existing stand mixer that performs well, I do not see a need to rush to upgrade, especially with a recommended retail price of $549.99 at the time of writing. I would wait for a sale to invest.

What Else to Shop

Looking to create a cohesive appliance suite or simply elevate your baking setup? I’ve rounded up my favourite SMEG appliances alongside a selection of baking essentials to help outfit your kitchen in style, without compromising on non-toxic materials or performance.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Looking to make your baking setup more professional? We asked professional organizers for their best tips for storing bakeware to keep kitchens tidy.

Love the latest product news and helpful shopping advice? Sign up for our newsletter and get the latest features delivered straight to your inbox.

When the new KitchenAid Artisan Plus Stand Mixer first launched, I knew I had to get my hands on it, and having put it through its paces for the last few weeks, I can safely say it has not disappointed.

Having baked for the last 15 years, I understand how your tools can make or break your bake. A bad stand mixer can make the process more awkward than working by hand. Luckily, the Artisan Plus is not that, offering fantastic control and precision over everything from cakes to breads.

Here is how I got on reviewing the KitchenAid Artisan Plus Stand Mixer, and why I maintain, after my KitchenAid Artisan Plus first look, that it is arguably the best stand mixer money can buy.

Product Specifications: KitchenAid Artisan Plus 5 Quart Stand Mixer

Design and First Impressions

The KitchenAid Artisan Plus Stand Mixer follows the same design as its best-selling predecessor, the KitchenAid Classic Stand Mixer we reviewed a few years back. The signature tilt-head design has returned, but adding more colors to the mix, totalling 13 overall, with the new Sun Dried Tomato, Wild Blueberry, Iron Ore Bronze, and Oat colorways ensuring there is a style for every kitchen design.

The stand mixer looks great straight out of the box. It arrived well packaged in polystyrene to protect the main body of the unit (so not entirely recyclable), but all the components were tucked very neatly inside, so there was no risk of damage or scratches. The unit itself is rather heavy, both to lift and to move around on the counter. This is so that the unit does not rock or move even on the fastest mixing speeds; however, it might make it more difficult if you want to put it away in a cabinet after each use. That said, the design is so pretty, I suggest leaving it on the counter anyway. Small appliance slide mats, from Amazon, can make them easier to move if required.

From there, it is as simple as plugging in and starting to bake. I noted that there is an included cable tidy on the cord to help keep counters clear. It's a small detail, but appreciated in a small kitchen.

The Artisan Plus comes with four attachments as standard: A wire whisk, a dough hook, a standard paddle, and a double Flex Edge paddle, which came to be my favorite for mixing batters, but more on that later. Each accessory is crafted from solid stainless steel, with a good weight to them that makes them feel premium. The double Flex Edge has two silicone scrapers on either side, which scrape the edges of the bowl to ensure no batter is left unmixed. There is also a clear plastic splash guard that uses silicone 'feet' to clip onto the bowl. I love how sturdy this felt, and yes, the edge of the funnel is sturdy enough to crack eggs against.

A major upgrade from the previous classic design is the bowl handle. This was one of the few things we marked the original classic design down for missing. Also, stainless steel, the bowl is easy to handle and well-weighted, even with a heavy dough inside.

The stand-out new features on the Artisan Plus include the integrated bowl light, which activates whenever you put the head down and stays on when mixing. In my dark kitchen, it was a game-changer for being able to keep an eye on my mixes, casting a lovely yet practical soft glow over the contents of the bowl. It also added a cozier touch to the experience, which I appreciate.

Finally, the new speed settings, specifically the half-speed for folding, were fantastic. Anyone who bakes regularly knows how easy it is for a delicate batter to be ruined by the power of a stand mixer. However, the half-speed works slowly to avoid knocking air out of the mix. What's more, the speed dial can be used in two configurations. Turn the dial one way, and you can 'click' precisely between the marked speed settings. Turn the dial the other way, and you can glide seamlessly between each speed, effectively giving you full control and half-speeds between every markation. It is simply fantastic.

Performance

To thoroughly test the stand mixer, I tested four of my favorite recipes that would assess the appliance's ability to tackle everything from thick doughs to delicate cream:

The Cake Test

Not to blow my own trumpet, but I make a very good Victoria sponge cake. It is basic, but an undeniable classic. Done correctly, the sponge should be as light as air, and it is a mix I usually always hand-mix for precision.

Starting with creaming the butter and sugar together, I opted for the double Flex Edge beater to see how efficient it was at keeping the edges of the bowl clean. Admittedly, underestimating the power of the machine, I turned it on too high at first and sent a ring of butter around the top of the bowl. I removed the paddle, scraped the bowl down manually using its edge, replaced it, and tried again more slowly.

This was more successful. The paddle beat the mix until fluffy, keeping the bowl clean as it worked. From there, adding the vanilla and alternating adding the eggs and flour was simple. The clear cover with a spout helped direct ingredients in, but it was not needed to prevent splashes.

The fold speed came into its own when alternating the eggs and flour. This is the point where you are most likely to end up with a dense cake. Adding each slowly and folding it in maintains air, so you do not end up with a tough dough. I left the folding half-speed running as I added each, and found my batter to be lovely and light by the end.

After baking, the cake was fluffy and well-risen, with that airy texture I usually look for. I do think I overmixed it slightly, this being my first time using the stand mixer, but I put that down to user error, not being used to a mixer doing all the work for me, rather than me manually stopping and starting. All in all, I was very impressed.

The Whipped Cream Test

Whipped cream is a pain to make by hand. I did it once and never want to do it again.

I simply poured double cream into the base of the bowl, added the whisk attachment, and set it off on a high speed. I actually mixed it for too long, once again underappreciating the efficiency, but it was nothing that turning it down and adding some more fresh cream didn't fix. The resulting cream was lovely and thick, and perfect for spreading between the layers of my cake with fresh raspberry compote.

The lesson here is that the KitchenAid Artisan Plus is very efficient, taking only a minute or so to perfect whipped cream.

The Bread Test

Bread can be a make-or-break test for a stand mixer, but it is an essential test to pass if you want to avoid the labour of hand-kneading dough. I used a focaccia recipe to test the KitchenAid and found it to be a very straightforward experience.

As with most stand mixers, the speed is limited when using the dough hook, but I did not find that this limited my baking at all. The hook powered through the dough with ease, and the machine did not rock, nor did the head bounce up and down as some stand mixers are prone to. It remained sturdy throughout.

I will note that the top of the dough hook is large and flat, designed to stop the dough from climbing too far up and getting into the gears of the machine. This does mean you have to be smart when adding your ingredients so that they do not sit on top of this, however.

Making bread was also the only occasion when the splash guard failed me. I added a big spoonful of flour into the bowl while the hook was working too quickly, and it flew out of the gap at the back. It was a small mess, and I didn't do it again in any other tests, so I don't see this as a design flaw in any way.

The handled bowl made it easy to move the dough around as it was proofing, too.

The resulting focaccia dough passed the 'window pane' test with ease (evidencing good gluten development from proper kneading), rose perfectly, and created a delicious loaf that my friends demolished in one sitting.

The Cookie Test

My partner makes the best chocolate cookies (I'm not biased, I promise), so I roped him in to help with the cookie test. This dough usually makes our arms ache as we reach the final stages of mixing, so I was excited to finally have my favorite treat without the shoulder pain.

I used the standard paddle for this, once again mixing the melted butter and sugar, and then adding the eggs and flour. It breezed through with ease, with no clumping. Everything was mixed evenly, too, despite the lack of 'Flex Edges'. Once again, the machine showed no sign of struggle or rocking.

Adding in the chocolate, I put the half-fold speed setting to use again, and it dispersed the pieces very evenly without breaking them up too much. It was a softer, layered caramel chocolate, so this really impressed me.

We refrigerate our cookie dough for 24-72 hours before baking, and the stainless steel bowl was easy to remove, cover with foil, and slot onto our fridge shelf without having to alter the height of any of them.

After baking, the cookies were crisp at the edges and gooey in the middle. It is yet another win for the KitchenAid Artisan Plus.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Cleaning the KitchenAid Artisan Plus Stand Mixer is a breeze. With all the main components made from stainless steel, they wipe clean with warm water, dish soap (I use a non-toxic soap such as Attitude Dish Soap from Walmart), and a soft sponge.

The only item that gave me some trouble was the double Flex Edge, as some food was stubborn and stuck in the small silicone crease. Soaking this in warm water helped remove it.

You can leave the parts to air dry; however, I found drying with a soft cotton dish towel to be the best way to avoid marks on the stainless steel bowl.

The main body of the unit can be wiped down with a barely damp cloth. This was easy, even with my matte-textured Oat colorway appliance. I then decided to leave it on my counter, as it looks so pretty, it would be a shame to store it in a cabinet.

How The KitchenAid Artisan Plus Stand Mixer Compares

The online reception has been just as positive as my own. Verified users on the KitchenAid store have given the appliance five stars, with many commenting on the power and precision.

One noted, 'I made cupcakes with the KitchenAid Artisan Plus, and I totally get why people love it. It looks gorgeous, but it also works really well in real, everyday baking. The bowl is spacious, the mixing is smooth, and the whole process feels effortless. It's one of those products that just makes your kitchen routine better.'

The lowest star review is a three-star review by a customer who had difficulty with the whisk attachment reaching the base of the bowl. I personally did have this issue, and I do not see it mentioned in other reviews, so it may be down to alignment. If this is the case, it is something that can be fixed with a KitchenAid dime trick.

I reviewed the KitchenAid Artisan Plus Stand Mixer alongside the new SMEG Forte Stand Mixer, and the KitchenAid just edged in front in my assessments. Testing using the same recipes, both mixers delivered fantastic, near-identical results. That said, the SMEG does not have a half-speed, bowl light, or precision slider between the speed settings. The SMEG also struggled more with the bread dough, with more head rocking.

The KitchenAid is $50 more expensive at the time of writing, so whether those small details make or break the savings will come down to personal preference.

I personally prefer the style of the KitchenAid, but that is entirely my own taste and opinion.

Should You Buy The KitchenAid Artisan Plus Stand Mixer?

All in all, I would absolutely recommend buying the KitchenAid Artisan Plus Stand Mixer if you ever bake at home and are in need of a new workhorse. Whether you are making cakes, breads, pizza doughs, or cookies, the mixer can handle any mix with ease and precision, making it one of the best investments for home cooks. If you already have an existing KitchenAid, you may not need to rush to upgrade, especially as the new model is $100 more expensive than the original Artisan Stand Mixer at the time of writing, but it is worth keeping on your radar should you need a replacement any time soon.

The five-quart bowl might not be big enough if you run a cake business from your kitchen and regularly make cakes above four tiers; however, for the home baker, serious or casual, it is a certified upgrade that I can barely fault. It looks great and performs spectacularly. I can't wish for much more.

While I did not try any myself, the Artisan Plus is compatible with a wide range of the KitchenAid accessories ecosystem, too, from meat grinders to food processors, making it a worthwhile investment if you love to cook anything from scratch.

I will, of course, continue to use the stand mixer in my home and update this review should I discover anything else of note.

What Else to Shop

One of the best things about KitchenAid is the vast ecosystem of accessories you can add to your appliance. These extend the functionality way beyond cakes and bread, turning your investment into a truly multi-functional workhorse. These are some of my favorite KitchenAid accessories.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Looking to make your baking setup more professional? We asked professional organizers for their best tips for storing bakeware to keep kitchens tidy.

Love the latest product news and helpful shopping advice? Sign up for our newsletter and get the latest features delivered straight to your inbox.

Just this week, the new KitchenAid Artisan Plus stand mixer landed on my doorstep for testing, and I can already tell that it is going to be the best baking upgrade my home has seen in over 15 years.

I have been baking for as long as I can remember, and started by helping my mom to mix everything lovingly by hand, nary a stand mixer in sight. The manual approach works, of course, but there is no denying that it slows you down a lot. It's certainly left me in a baking slump of late.

That's why I've been excited to start using the Artisan Plus, which is shaping up to be one of the best stand mixers on the market. It has retained all the best elements of its predecessor while ironing out the small, albeit annoying functional snags. The result? An appliance I am genuinely excited to see on my counter and use.

I am yet to finish testing and write up my full review of the KitchenAid Artisan Plus stand mixer, but having unboxed it and trialled a few of my go-to recipes, I am already confident in saying it is shaping up to be a five-star investment.

Visually, not much has changed from the KitchenAid Classic Stand Mixer we reviewed a few years ago. It follows the same iconic silhouette with the domed tilt-head and stainless steel bowl. Now, however, that bowl comes with a very practical handle and a built-in bowl-light so you can keep a much closer eye on your mix.

Like the original KitchenAid Artisan Stand Mixer we also reviewed, this mixer has the all-important half-speed setting. It emulates hand mixing perfectly, allowing for more careful folds to avoid beating the air out of fluffy cake batters.

The new mixer has a more powerful motor, however, allowing it to also tackle thick, heavy-duty doughs with ease. You have the choice to click between each of the 11 speed settings or slide between them for absolute precision.

It is a small detail, but anyone who bakes regularly will know that that level of control can be the difference between the perfect bake and an overmixed mess.

While you'll never be heating your stand mixer, nor its accessories, I am always conscious of the materials used. Where possible, I like to avoid plastic and pick the best non-toxic kitchen appliances.

With the Artisan Plus, all attachments are made of solid stainless steel (including the double-flex-edge beater, which features food-grade silicone). They're weighty and exude quality. I hardly worry when I toss them in a drawer that they might come out misshapen.

Speaking of storing bakeware, stand mixers are infamously tricky to tuck away. They are heavy, for one, and while the Artisan Plus is reasonably compact for an appliance that can do much more than mix cakes, it is not easy to tuck into a cabinet in a small kitchen.

Luckily, it looks so good on the counter that I find it rather pleasing to keep on display. Like my Modern Heritage Le Creuset Dutch Oven, it screams 'I know what I am doing' in the kitchen, and I like that baking badge of honor.

Besides, with 14 color options, including the new Sun Dried Tomato, Oat (the color I chose), and Feather Pink, there is a shade for every kitchen color palette.

It is possibly going to be my top kitchen addition for 2026, but I will be sure to give the full report when it comes time to review.

What to Shop

One of my favourite things about KitchenAid stand mixers is their versatility. The extensive ecosystem of attachments allows a single machine to transform into an ice cream maker, the best juicer, a pasta roller, or a meat grinder in a matter of minutes.

It is one of the rare countertop appliances that genuinely earns its space on your counter, so to help you make the most of your new investment, I’ve rounded up six of the most popular add-ons.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Looking to inject a fun pop of color into your kitchen this year? KitchenAid's 2026 color of the year, Spearmint, might be the very appliance for the job.

Love the latest product news and helpful shopping advice? Sign up for our newsletter and get the latest features delivered straight to your inbox.

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.

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.

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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I don't know if it is just me, but by this point in the year, my kitchen is the least favorite room in my house. After peak hosting season and months of relentless winter weather, my motivation to cook and bake is at an all-time low.

Luckily, KitchenAid is coming to the rescue with its invigorating 2026 Color of the Year – Spearmint, the 'bright and calming minty green that invites you to step into the fresh side.'

The new, invigorating shade is available in the best KitchenAid stand mixer money can buy – the Artisan Series 5-Quart Tilt-Head – and it's the perfect pick if you're looking to upgrade your kitchen game in 2026 with appliances you'll never want to hide.

Why KitchenAid's Spearmint Hue Is Inspiring for Their Latest Color of The Year

If your kitchen has started to feel a little uninspiring and your smaller appliances are looking more haggard than homy, it's the perfect time for an upgrade – especially in the run up to spring, where this 'revitalising' hue sets the perfect tone for Easter baking.

Whether you're swapping out your old stand mixer for an upgraded model or investing in one of the best stand mixers for the first time as a little pre-spring treat, it's the easiest way to create a fresh look for your kitchen and use functional decor to boost your mood, without a full kitchen redesign.

Hebe Hatton, Head of Interiors at Homes & Gardens, points out that blues are having a real moment in the spotlight right now, not just for spring, but for an uplifting pop that can carry you through summer into the chilly winter months without feeling trendy or impulsive.

'It's utterly timeless,' she proclaims. 'It's a low-lift approach to adding something special practically in a way that every busy kitchen demands.'

Brittni Pertijs, design manager: Color, material, and finish, part of the team behind the new colorway at Whirlpool Corporation, shared, 'This year’s Color of the Year, Spearmint, feels like a mood booster – it’s positive, uplifting, and revitalizing.'

Spearmint is also incredibly versatile, she points out. It can bring a fresh pop of color against stainless steel or be a perfect complement in a colorful kitchen. Thanks to its blend of blues and greens, it works just as well in both cool and warm spaces to stand out as a statement or seamlessly blend into its surroundings, too.

The new shade also sees the return of the previously limited-edition 2021 Sand finish. This subtle texture softens the shade, and pulls inspiration from the soft texture of mint leaves, honing in on the tactility of the analogue trend so many of us are turning to in an increasingly overwhelming world, paved in neutrals and slick stainless steel.

'The sand finish is not a texture that you immediately notice with your eyes, but rather one that pulls you in and invites you to touch it,' Brittini shares. 'It has a subtle, grounding warmth that feels reminiscent of baking, cooking, and the moments we spend creating in the kitchen.'

The new KitchenAid is available from 12 February 2026, and launches with a KitchenAid Color of the Year Sweepstakes, where five lucky winners will receive a Spearmint Stand Mixer, plus a matching, limited-edition KitchenAid 36-inch Dual Fuel Commercial-Style Range.

It's the first time the Color of the Year has ever been expanded into the major appliance category, and it's only available to the winners.

What to Shop

With your new upgrade taken care of, discover how to use KitchenAid stand mixer attachments to make the most of your new investment.

I have to be honest, I’ve never been a natural baker. Even after training at one of the UK’s top culinary schools, I’ve always found making dough to be a slog – especially now, with mild arthritis making the process even more of a strain. Still, I’ve long wanted to bake homemade bread to avoid the additives and preservatives in store-bought loaves. So, when I heard about the Ooni Halo Pro Spiral Mixer, a minimalist stand mixer designed to handle even the densest of doughs, I was intrigued.

I’ve tried to make things easier with my beloved KitchenAid – one of the best overall stand mixers – but results have been hit-and-miss with heavier doughs. The machine tends to judder across the countertop, with sticky dough clinging stubbornly to the hook. I’ve also tested the Ankarsum mixer, which is powerful and beautifully made, though admittedly a little tricky to master.

So when Ooni, the cult-favorite brand behind the best pizza ovens, sent me their Halo Pro Spiral Mixer to test, I was genuinely excited to see if it could finally make home bread-making feel effortless. Here’s how it went.

Specifications

• Wattage: 650W
• Speed settings: 58
• Dimensions: 13.5" (H) x 9.9" (W) x 17.2" (D)
• Weight: 32 lbs
• Minimum Dough Capacity: 2 lb.
• Max Dough Capacity: 11 lb.
• Bowl Capacity: 7.3 qt.
• Materials: Die-cast aluminum body, glass top panel, stainless steel bowl
• Colorways: Grey or White
• Attachments: Flexible Beater, Spiral Dough Hook, Stainless Steel, Geared Whisk
• Price: From $799.00 at Ooni USA

Design

From the moment you unbox it, the Ooni Halo Pro Spiral Mixer exudes luxury. With its sleek, minimalist design and nod to professional-grade kitchen gear, it looks as good as it performs. There are no excess buttons or clunky controls – just a smooth, intuitive touchscreen that’s both responsive and a pleasure to use.

Switch it on, and the Ooni Halo Pro Spiral Mixer hums to life with a soft, futuristic sound. A gentle bowl light adds a warm glow as you work, creating an air of quiet luxury.

The attachments glide on and off with ease – refreshingly simple compared to the fiddly fittings of other mixers I’ve tested. Inside the box, you’ll find a spiral dough hook, a silicone-edged paddle for batters, and a balloon whisk. While I’ve yet to fully test the non-dough tools, each feels solid, thoughtfully designed, and built to perform.

My main gripe? No recipe booklet. I think for the high price tag, this appliance should definitely arrive with some handy recipes, tips, and more customer support. There was a tiny instructions booklet and QR code to help set up, but I was disappointed by the lack of Ooni-recommended recipes to make the learning curve less steep.

I've tested a lot of luxury appliances, from Vitamix blenders to Ninja ice cream makers – and I've come to expect a good recipe booklet and start guide as a bare minimum.

Instead, I had to experiment with my own recipes and guess at which speed settings to use and for how long. That might not be a problem for a very keen baker who really knows their stuff or is happy to experiment, but it irritated me.

What is it like to use?

Setup is easy. I followed an Ooni YouTube tutorial that clearly explained each attachment and how to fit the splash guard. Mixing is just as straightforward, thanks to the responsive touchscreen and intuitive controls – you simply toggle between the ‘timer’ and ‘speed’ buttons and adjust with the central dial.

The built-in timer is a thoughtful touch that allows for precise, hands-free kneading. The only real learning curve came from Ooni’s percentage-based speed system, which replaces the numbered levels found on traditional mixers. This is where I could have used more guidance from the instructions booklet.

Mixing performance

The Ooni Halo Pro Spiral Mixer is designed for expert dough mixing at home, so I trialled a couple of different recipes in the test kitchen – including pizza dough, as Ooni is a pizza oven brand.

Test 1: Pizza dough

I began with a classic pizza dough recipe, combining Italian 00 flour, instant yeast, and salt before adding water and olive oil. I started mixing the dry ingredients on low speed, gradually incorporating the liquids. For this test, I skipped using the splash guard to give a clear view of the mixing process for the review.

I let the dough mix at medium speed for 10 minutes, and the mixer held steady as the spiral hook worked its magic. What started as a shaggy mass quickly transformed into a smooth, elastic ball – something that would’ve required serious effort by hand. I was genuinely impressed.

Since baking ten pizzas wasn’t on the agenda, I decided to experiment. Gradually increasing the speed to 80%, 90%, and then 100%, I measured the noise, which never exceeded 70 decibels – about as quiet as the softest blender. However, at those high speeds, the dough became overworked, sticky, and warm to the touch – a clear reminder to stick to the recommended speeds and temperatures.

Cleanup was refreshingly easy: a quick scrub with a silicone brush and warm water had the stainless steel bowl and spiral attachment spotless in no time.

Test 2: Seeded wholemeal bread

Next, I tried my hand at seeded wholemeal bread – though, truthfully, I barely touched the dough. I started by mixing the dry ingredients, then placed the splash guard on top and added the water through the chute.

This feature was fantastic, allowing the water to trickle gently into the center of the mix, ensuring thorough incorporation as the spiral hook worked its way around.

I mixed the dough for six minutes on medium speed (40%), until a smooth dough formed. It was slightly tacky, not breaking when I tried the 'window pane' test and springing back slowly without denting when I rolled it into a ball and pressed.

I let the dough rise in the stainless steel bowl until it doubled in size, then baked it for 30 minutes. The results truly surprised me – the crumb was wonderfully fluffy, and the crust had a perfect, satisfying crunch. It was by far the easiest and most delicious loaf I’ve ever made. I was seriously tempted to take the Ooni Spiral Mixer home from the test kitchen and start baking bread every week.

Storage & maintenance

Cleaning the Ooni Halo Pro Spiral Mixer was just as effortless as using it. The stainless steel bowl and attachments are dishwasher-safe, making cleanup a breeze.

Even better, all the accessories fit neatly inside the bowl, with the splash guard slotting on top for a clever, compact storage solution. It’s genuinely genius – no more rummaging through cluttered drawers for dough hooks.

You could leave the mixer out on your countertop without any visual clutter, a huge win for frequent bakers who crave easy access to their tools.

How does it compare?

First, let's talk about the most famous rival: KitchenAid. The Artisan Stand Mixer is iconic for a reason. It’s beautifully retro, compact enough for everyday use, and perfectly suited to lighter bakes – think cakes, cookies, whipped cream, and buttercream frosting. Its tilt-head design and standard paddle, whisk, and dough hook attachments handle most tasks with ease, and the available extra accessories (like the pasta roller, spiralizer, and food processor) turn it into a true multitasker. For its price, usually around $400, depending on the model, it's an excellent all-rounder for casual bakers and cooks alike.

Where a KitchenAid struggles is with heavy, high-hydration doughs. In my experience, it judders under the strain, the dough climbs the hook and clings in a mass, and the motor doesn’t always have the torque to deliver consistent kneading. It’s also relatively noisy at higher speeds.

The Ooni Halo Pro Spiral Mixer is one of the best KitchenAid alternatives I've tested; it is sleeker, sturdier, and the spiral mixing motion, inspired by commercial bakery mixers, leads to more efficient gluten development. That said, it's far less versatile than a KitchenAid. You won’t find food processor attachments or pasta rollers here.

The other alternative would be the Ankarsrum Assistent Original, a Swedish cult favorite beloved by serious bread bakers. Its motor is located beneath the bowl, giving it impressive torque and stability. The spinning bowl design (rather than a moving arm) means it handles heavy dough with ease and can knead large batches quietly and efficiently. When I tested it, I found it extremely durable and powerful. However, the Ankarsrum comes with a steep learning curve. Its unique design isn’t immediately intuitive, and it lacks the touchscreen precision or clean aesthetic of the Ooni Halo Pro Spiral Mixer. Personally, I would opt for the ease and modernity of the Ooni, especially since both mixers are priced in a similar range: around $700.

Should you invest?

If you love baking bread or pizza for a crowd and want a mixer that handles the heavy lifting, the Ooni Halo Pro Spiral Mixer is made for you. Beautifully designed and incredibly efficient, it’s built to knead serious dough with ease. Whether you struggle with time, energy, or physical strain, this mixer will transform your baking routine. It’s also perfect for batch-making dough ahead – ideal for pizza parties or stocking your freezer with sourdough.

However, if you bake only occasionally or focus more on cookies, cakes, and creams, the Ooni Halo Pro might feel like overkill. In that case, a KitchenAid offers better versatility, a more affordable price, and a wider range of accessories, making it a more practical choice for everyday baking.

Many of us wait eagerly for spring so that we can bring out our finest floral home decor. But who says that flowers only work for one season?

Drew Barrymore certainly believes that florals should be used for fall, and all year round. At least that's what her latest cookware and kitchen appliance collection indicates. 'Meet Wildflower,' Barrymore captioned a post debuting the new Beautiful by Drew collection on Instagram. She continued, 'Featuring soft florals against a matte black background, our limited-edition floral kitchenware collection is sure to make a statement in your home.'

The Wildflower print is the latest iteration of Beautiful, one of our favorite celebrity home brands, that launched at Walmart in 2021. 'We're on a mission to make everyone's life more beautiful through cooking,' Barrymore, Beautiful's Co-Founder and Creative Director, stated via a press release at the time. 'With my long-standing relationship with Walmart, I knew they were the perfect partner to bring this vision to life. It's an act of love to make something that brings people together and lights them up. I hope this collection inspires others to make more beautiful moments in the kitchen- together.'

Featuring a variety of colored flowers, with pops of green, red, pink, white, and blue, the print is reminiscent of a wild garden, bringing the outdoors inside via these top-of-the-line appliances. The limited-edition print is notably available in select appliances: the air frier, the stand mixer, the slow cooker, and the kettle. Our favorite is the Wildflower air fryer, consistently ranked as one of the best air fryers of the year.

It's giving us some floral room decor ideas. We love how the print adds an accent to the matte black finish on these appliances, and can picture these pairing beautifully atop a modern, marble countertop, or in a more rustic kitchen with wood fixtures.

As always, Barrymore's Beautiful line includes highly affordable prices, with Wildflower appliances ranging from $29.97 to $99.00.

Shop the Beautiful by Drew Wildflower Collection

No matter how you like to cook, adding a touch of style to your kitchen appliance is an easy way to upgrade your kitchen decor. Drew Barrymore's Beautiful Wildflower Collection is a stunning, and accessibly priced place to start.

Blue and white colors on ceramics are a classic. The beautiful balance of colors is crisp, elegant, and delicate. It's a failsafe option if you're looking to cultivate a timeless collection of plates, vases, and accessories in your home. 

If you look in my cupboards or on my mantle, you'll know that I love blue and white ceramics, but I'm also a bit of a snob. Whilst some pieces look undeniably elegant, there are plenty of knockoffs creeping onto crammed shelves in the store, which can make it hard to find truly premium designs amongst the masses.

Luckily for us, the British lifestyle brand, Laura Ashley, has partnered with VQ to bring an exquisite China Rose kitchen appliance collection, which features the most beautiful stand mixer and portable blender that I've ever seen. It's a treat for anyone, especially us blue and white snobs.

What's the collection and where can I find it?

Laura Ashley, the British Lifestyle brand is celebrating 70 years of success in the US, so they've teamed up with the home and electronic brand VQ to bring a series of appliances to the market, hand-glazed in some of Laura Ashley's most iconic prints.

These heritage designs are a classy take on the classic blue and white combination. The patterns, Elveden Navy, Elveden White, and China Rose, have been the brand's best sellers for years, so to be able to enjoy them in the kitchen is a true treat.

There's a whole range of different appliances on offer, but I've picked out some of my favorites: a portable blender, an immersion blender, a hand mixer, a slow cooker, and, a truly stunning stand mixer to deep dive into. If you want to know what to shop from the collection, here's my expert selection.

A quick introduction

I'll go into more details on the bigger, more substantial appliances. However, if you like the look of the style and just want a little bit of blue and white in your kitchen, here are my favorites from the collection.

More about the portable smoothie maker

We've tested some of the best personal blenders on the market and, whilst there are certainly some stunning designs on offer, I don't think any look as beautiful as this. All the blue and white decoration is hand-applied with incredible attention to detail, making this feel like so much more than a functional appliance.

The VQ Laura Ashley blender is completely cordless and super compact. It even comes with a 15 oz juice cup on top of the device, so you can use this with a drinking cap as your bottle. It's perfect for taking in your handbag or gym bag wherever you go.

The blender also comes with a built-in rechargeable battery that charges fully in 3.5-4 hours via a USB cable, which is included in the package. The 25,000-rpm engine powers six stainless steel cutter blades, which is plenty of power for crushing ice and handling tougher textures, such as frozen berries and leafy greens.

More about the immersion blender

I love immersion blenders. They're a great way to make the most of small spaces, especially if you live in an urban area and you need an appliance to function as a blender and food processor combination.

The VQ & Laura Ashley immersion blender is sleek (and beautiful, of course), with a 500-watt motor, and plenty of blending accessories. You'll get a pitcher for smoothies, a whisk for batters, as well as food chopper attachments. There's also a 10 oz whisking cup and pouring container if you're using your blender to make sauces. Whilst that might sound like a lot of accessories with the potential to get lost, this comes with a draw-string bag that has separate compartments, so you can keep everything in one place.

More about the hand mixer

Competition for being the best hand mixer on the market is tough. Braun, KitchenAid, and Smeg all make some stylish options, but the VQ & Laura Ashley one might have just clinched the spot for the most stylish model.

With a powerful, 300-watt motor and five speed settings, this boasts form and function. It has a special, comfortable grip, and comes with stainless-steel beaters and dough hooks that cover all your baking tasks.

More about the stand mixer

Stand mixers are some of the most beautiful, covetable kitchen appliances on the market and this is the most elegant one I've seen (and probably will ever see). The stainless steel bowl comes with a beater, whisk, and dough hook, so it'll be a useful assistant for any keen baker.

The capacity is perfect for family bakes. Plus, there are 10 speeds powered by an 1800-watt motor. It's set to be a favorite from this collection.

More about the slow cooker

Slow cookers are rarely beautiful, so I cannot overstate how pleased I am to see the VQ & Laura Ashley model in all its beauty.

The stainless steel bowl has a 3.5-liter capacity, which is brilliant for stews, soups, and casseroles. You can toggle between three heat settings and a keep warm function. Even better, the tempered glass lid helps keep all the moisture in your dish, whilst letting you check up on your dishes.

When you're finished cooking, the inner bowl can go in the dishwasher, making it just as easy to clean as it is to use. Plus, if you register the slow cooker on the VQ website, you'll get a three-year guarantee.

Why have Laura Ashley & VQ collaborated?

The thought behind a lifestyle and appliance brand collaborating isn't novel, but it's not always executed as expertly as the VQ & Laura Ashley collection has done. Carolyn D’Angelo, president of Laura Ashley Global, says, 'kitchens today are more beautiful and thoughtfully curated than ever before. The new range of floral-print tea kettles and toasters makes an everyday essential into something charming; customers will be proud to have their appliances on display.'

The brands wanted to deliver on substance and style, which is exactly what these do. They're charmingly timeless and a wonderful range. Last year, the brand launched a similar collaboration, which was a sell-out, so they're expecting similar success with the China Rose line.

Where can I buy the Laura Ashley & VQ collection?

Aside from shopping on the brand's site, the new Laura Ashley & VQ collaboration will be available at Wayfair, Bed Bath & Beyond, HSN, QVC and Home Depot.

I imagine that stocks will sell out soon, since this is a stunning style that was well-received the last time that VQ & Laura Ashley collaborated. In fact, the range received an extra feather in its cap when it recently won the Brand and Licensing Award of the Year in the Best Brand Licensed Electrical &/or DIY Products or Range category. I'll be testing them out over the next few weeks, so watch out for reviews.

Stand mixers often fall into the category of aspirational, rather than affordable, but Amazon’s Big Spring Sale is truly treating us. GE’s stand mixer is half-price, meaning you can enjoy using one of the best for just $150. 

I’m Homes & Gardens’ eCommerce editor, which means I spend my days testing and reviewing stand mixers and other small appliances. I've been scouring Amazon's sales looking for deals on our favorite home appliances and when I saw this I just couldn't wait to share the details. I've included some more good stand mixer deals at the bottom of the article too. You can't say we don't treat you.

I love GE's stand mixer for covering the all the basics of baking without breaking a sweat. Our experts reckon it's one of the best stand mixers on the market; it whips cream, mixes batters, and kneads dough like the best of them. You'll be spending at least three times the price before you find a better stand mixer. 

What's the deal?

Is the GE stand mixer any good?

The GE boats some impressive credentials. It's well-built, versatile, and reliable, competing with some of the best stand mixers on the market. The seven-speed settings and simple controls are easy enough for beginners. The GE even has a soft start setting (so that you don't spray clouds of flour into the air when you turn the machine on) and an auto-locking head which means you'll have both hands free to scrape, stir, and add ingredients when needed. 

The sleek design looks modern. If you read the reviews, you'll see that everyone is surprised by the weighty, durable feel of the stand mixer. GE includes the essential accessories: a whisk, dough hook, flat beater, and pouring shield. It's powerful enough to whip up egg whites, mix sausage meat, and knead dough. Even better, the GE is compatible with all of KitchenAid's best attachments. If you've been eyeing up their incredible ice cream maker (which is reduced by $20 at Amazon) or meat grinder (also reduced at Amazon) you won't have to miss out.

For those who are feeling ambitious and tackling a tough project, the GE can get pretty noisy. If your kitchen is a social space, choose your baking times carefully. Whilst the exterior wipes clean, the accessories are hand-wash only, so you'll need to be more involved in the cleanup. The rule in my house is, that the cook (or baker) never cleans. If you'll be the one using the GE, I recommend implementing this. to save yourself some time.

The GE is a brilliant buy if you're on a budget. You'll have spent $150 to have access to a stand mixer which delivers results which are at least worth $300, if not more. Sure, it's not the iconic, colorful KitchenAid, but you'll need to quadruple your budget to pick up one of those.

What are my other options?

The GE isn't the only discounted stand mixer, there are plenty of other options. None are quite as cheap as this one, but you can pick up a discounted KitchenAid, save $300 on a professional Wolf model, or nab a Hamilton Beach model for $75.

KitchenAid mixer after-Christmas deals are some of the most sought-after special offers over the holidays. We saw unbelievable demand on Black Friday, and it's not hard to see why. 

These American-made stand mixers last for generations and make perfect bakes every time. They're quite simply the best stand mixers you can buy, appearing in our ranking of the best stand mixers three different times. The only drawback is that they command a premium price tag, which why now is a fantastic time to shop.

To help you find the lowest KitchenAid mixer prices among the deals still going on, our team of expert consumer journalists are on the hunt for KitchenAid discounts. We'll be constantly updating this live blog with the latest and greatest KitchenAid deals.

US KitchenAid after-Christmas sales

• KitchenAid: Shop direct for up to 25% off, including the largest color assortment and special services like free engraving
• Amazon: The Amazon KitchenAid storefront makes it easy to directly compare KitchenAid mixers 
• Bed Bath & Beyond: KitchenAid small appliances on markdown - everything from stand mixers to food processors and coffee grinders 
• Best Buy: $200 off the KitchenAid Professional 5 Plus Series mixer, with Best Buy's exclusive ink blue colorway
• Bloomingdale's: Save up to 25% off a range of KitchenAid products
• eBay: enormous discounts on refurbished mixers, choppers, and blenders 
• The Home Depot: savings on the KitchenAid Classic
• Macy’s: Tons of KitchenAid products on markdown, including a KitchenAid toaster
• Target: Target has an incredibly useful KitchenAid explainer page, and some great discounts
• Sur La Table: Almost the entire selection of stand mixers, attachments and other small appliances are on sale
• Walmart: Spotted, KitchenAid stand mixers starting at $260
• Wayfair: an enormous range of KitchenAid mixers and accessories on markdown

UK KitchenAid after-Christmas sales

• KitchenAid UK: Up to 30% off KitchenAid stand mixers, as well as access to an astonishing range of colours and the manufacturer's engraving service
• Currys: Save up to £100 on KitchenAid mixers and get a free mini chopper worth £79
• eBay: Big discounts on refurbished and new KitchenAid mixers
• John Lewis: snap up a free mini chopper included with the KitchenAid Artisan
• Lakeland: £100 off a huge range of KitchenAid mixers and attachments, with a a free mini chopper included with the KitchenAid Artisan

Morning everyone, hope you've had good Christmases and Hanukkahs. This is Alex David, Head of eCommerce here at Homes & Gardens, signing on to bring you all the very latest KitchenAid deals. 

KitchenAid Artisan® Series 5 Quart Tilt-Head Stand Mixer| was $449.99, now $349.99 at KitchenAid 
Always trending on sales days, the Artisan Series 5-quart is our favorite ever stand mixer. It's well suited for everyone from the occasional holiday bakers to dedicated amateur pastry chefs. So far, KitchenAid have the same discount as all the big retailers, but if you buy direct from KitchenAid you'll have the biggest color selection and you can customize it with a free laser engraving. We can't get enough of this mixer, and we're not alone. It's even used by royalty - you can find it in the Prince and Princess of Wales' kitchen. Seriously.

KitchenAid Professional 5 Plus Series 5 Quart Bowl-Lift Stand Mixer |was $449, now $279 at Best Buy
The Professional 5 Plus Series is the five-quart version of the KitchenAid Pro Line, but our tests found that the 7-quart model excels at mixing bread dough and cake batters.  

The Professional differs from the Artisan with a bowl-lift design, as opposed to the tilt-head of the Artisan, which provides better stability. It also offers more power, 525 watts, compared to the Artisan's 325 watts.

KitchenAid Classic K45SSWH Stand Mixer, was $329.99, now $259.00 at Amazon
If you want a KitchenAid Artisan but find the price a little eye-watering, a Classic stand mixer is a good choice. It has the same iconic tilt-lift design, but a slightly smaller capacity and less power put this stand mixer under the $350 mark, and now for under $260. In the grand scheme of things, missing half a quart doesn't make too much difference - you can still make up to 8 dozen cookies in a single batch.

A lot of KitchenAid mixers look very similar and have similar names. A brief explainer:

• KitchenAid Artisan: The best stand mixer on the market. Tilt-head, 5 quart capacity.
• KitchenAid Pro Line Series: The best stand mixer for bread makers. Bowl-lift, 7 quart capacity.
• KitchenAid Artisan Mini: The best mini stand mixer you can buy. Tilt-head, 3.5 quart capacity.
• KitchenAid Classic: virtually identical to the Artisan, but less power. A good option if you're baking on a budget. Tilt-head, 4.5 quart capacity.

KitchenAid 3.5 Quart Artisan Mini Plus Stand Mixer | was $379.99, now $299.99 at KitchenAid
This compact version of the classic KitchenAid Artisan mixer brings plenty of power in a miniature mixer. It's our pick for the very best mini mixer you can buy, and it's a great option to save on space if you're baking out of a condo or an apartment. The  3.5-qt capacity is enough to mix up 60 cookies in a single batch. It has all you expect from a KitchenAid, including a stainless-steel bowl, dough hook, flex edge beater, wire whip, and pouring shield. 

KitchenAid vs Smeg: Which is better? 
The truthful answer is that this simply isn't a fair comparison. The KitchenAid Artisan has more attachments, a much bigger collection, more colors and more power. Don't get me wrong, Smeg mixers are great. We love the lower price point and the retro looks. But when we put them to the test, we gave the KitchenAid Artisan a 5-star rating and the Smeg stand mixer a 4-star rating. There's no way around it: the KitchenAid artisan is a clear winner. 

The best KitchenAid dupe: Cuisinart Precision Stand Mixer |was $299.95, now $179 at Amazon
We never promote dupes. Come on, we're Homes & Gardens. Instead, try the runner-up. If you need a stand mixer but can't shell out on a KitchenAid, our second favorite stand mixer of all time is the Cuisinart Precision. Don't tell anyone, but it makes a better loaf of bread than the KitchenAid Artisan thanks to a more powerful motor. It also has half a quart more in capacity, and its usual retail price starts at $250 less. While it might not have the caché of a KitchenAid, it presents laughably good value.

K400 Variable Speed Blender with Tamper KSB4028 | was $279.99, now $219 at Macy's 
No surprises here, yet another KitchenAid machine finding its way into one of our buyers' guides. In our ranking of the best blenders, we rated this powerful blender as best for professional results. It has a 3-part blending system and a unique asymmetric blade that cuts at four distinct angles. This ensures all sorts of ingredients - including ice - are thoroughly blended, and it can be controlled by the 5-speed variable speed dial or the 3 Preset Recipe Programs.

Did you know you can shop KitchenAid refurbs and new and unused mixers on eBay?
One of our top tips for buying a KitchenAid is to check out eBay. You can find refurbished models at enormous discounts if you shop savvy.

The basic structure of these machines has hardly needed to change from the 1950s, and we routinely hear stories of them being passed down through generations. The result is that you can find a KitchenAid on eBay that's a few years old but works like a dream. They're also really characterful - a quick scroll has just uncovered one KitchenAid painted with cherry blossom and another in black leopard print. 

However, always read the details thoroughly to ensure you are ordering exactly what you expect. Check delivery lead times and seller reviews, too. 

KitchenAid or Cuisinart? 

Our Head of Reviews, Millie Fender has put KitchenAid vs Cuisinart stand mixers in a direct head to head, throwing bake after bake at them to work out which brand came out on top. 

The answer? Both are fantastic models, but while the Cuisinart wins out on price, you simply cannot beat the KitchenAid Artisan.

KitchenAid Artisan Series 5-Quart Tilt-Head Stand Mixer | was $449.99, now $385.31 at Walmart

This Feather Pink colorway is a best-seller at Walmart, and it is easy to see why. The renaissance of this color is not surprising. Warm and joyful yet still light, soft pinks are a fabulous way to inject fun into everyday spaces like kitchens.

KitchenAid Professional 5 Plus Series 5 Quart Bowl-Lift Stand Mixer | was $449.99, now $279 at Best Buy

STOP WHAT YOU ARE DOING! This is one of the best deals we've seen today! 

Available in an on-trend Ink Blue colorway, this stand mixer has a modern edge that would suit a contemporary kitchen. 

Were you given a KitchenAid stand mixer for the holidays? Maximize your machine's uses with KitchenAid mixer attachments that slice, grind, puree, and more.

Don't be shocked that your KitchenAid could replace even some of the best food processors. 

KSMPRA Pasta Roller Attachments for Most KitchenAid Stand Mixers | was $196.99, now $219.99 at Target SAVE $50

Love making your own pasta? Us, too – and now it is even easier with these simple stainless steel attachments, which are now available at an unbelievable price. Trust us, this offer is not to be missed.

Morning everyone! Zara here, content editor at Homes & Gardens. I'll be with you for the next few hours with the very best KitchenAid deals.

KitchenAid Stand Mixer tilt 5-Quart RRk150ga Artisan Green Apple | Was $597.00 now $436.99 at eBay
Save over $150 on this refurbished tilt 5-Quart stand mixer in a striking artisan green apple finish. Available to purchase on eBay, this model features a strong 325-watt motor with 10 speeds and 67-point planetary mixing action.

KitchenAid KP26M1XOB 6 Qt. Professional 600 Series Bowl-Lift Stand Mixer | Was $599.99 now $429.95 at Amazon
The KitchenAid 6-Qt. Professional 600 Series is perfect for heavy and dense mixtures. This model features a bowl-lift design, which provides sturdy bowl support for when mixing heavy ingredients or large batches, and comes with a burnished PowerKnead TM Spiral Dough Hook, Flat beater, Wire whip, Stainless Steel bowl, and Pouring shield.

KitchenAid Fruit and Vegetable Strainer Attachment| Was $59.99 now $49.99 at KitchenAid
Perfect for making juices, sauces, purees and more, the KitchenAid Fruit and Vegetable Strainer Attachment has been specially designed to work with the KitchenAid Food Grinder.

To ensure you are making the most out of your KitchenAid mixer, from grinding to juicing and even pasta making, our ecommerce editor Jaclyn Turner takes us through how to use KitchenAid stand mixer attachments.

KitchenAid KHMB732 Cordless 7-Speed Hand Mixer | Was $99.99 now $79.99 at Kohl's
Great for easy, quick-mixing, save on the KitchenAid KHMB732 Cordless 7-Speed Hand Mixer at Kohls, available in a range of colors. Designed with a powerful rechargeable lithium ion battery, this cordless design delivers optimal run time and performance, so you can cook wherever you like!

KitchenAid Cordless 5 Cup Food Chopper | Was $99.99 now $79.99 at KitchenAid
Voted our best cordless food processor in our best food processor guide, this 5 Cup Food Chopper design from KitchenAid is perfect for the modern kitchen. Powerful and portable, the chopper's lightweight design can easily integrate into spaces of all shapes and sizes.

Good morning everyone, hope you're having a great start to the day. This is Alex David, Head of eCommerce at Homes & Gardens, signing back on to bring you all the very latest KitchenAid after-Christmas sales. 

KitchenAid Stand Mixers explained:

First of all, a it's worth another quick explainer of the different models of KitchenAid stand mixers. They all look pretty similar, but the key differences are:

• KitchenAid Artisan: the best stand mixer on the market. Tilt-head, 5 quart capacity.
• KitchenAid Pro Line Series: the best stand mixer for bread makers. Bowl-lift, 7 quart capacity.
• KitchenAid Artisan Mini: the best mini stand mixer you can buy. Tilt-head, 3.5 quart capacity.
• KitchenAid Classic: virtually identical to the Artisan, but less power. A good option for baking on a budget. Tilt-head, 4.5 quart capacity.

KitchenAid Artisan Stand Mixer, Premium Accessory Pack | was $499.99, now $369.99 at KitchenAid
If you're buying direct, this morning's best deal is this premium accessory pack. For just $20 more than you'd pay for the standard Artisan, you get all the usual accessories but also receive a beater with a flex edge, so you don't have to scrape down the sides of your bowl, a pastry beater to quickly break down blocks of butter, and a 3-quart bowl for making smaller portions. This accessory pack also includes a pouring shield, which is great for keeping countertops clean. It's the best-value deal on the KitchenAid site, but you might want to move quick, as a few colours have sold out. 

KitchenAid Classic 4.5qt Stand Mixer | was $329.99, now $259.99 at Target
If you're after a KitchenAid mixer but can't spring for the Artisan, the Classic is a great alternative. It has a slightly smaller capacity and less power, but that should only be a problem when mixing large batches of bread - it might struggle to knead two loaves at once. Looks-wise, it's almost identical to the Artisan, and we saw a lot of demand for this model over Black Friday. 

Is a KitchenAid mixer really worth the hype?
Yes. KitchenAid mixers live up to the hype. I'm always struck by the fact that there are three different KitchenAid mixers in our rank of the best stand mixers. Of these, the Artisan is the standout. It's our best mixer overall, beating out every other stand mixer after rounds of rigorous testing. The only obvious downside to KitchenAid products is the price, which is why we're running this deals page ⁠— the after-Christmas sales are a great time to grab a significant discount on the best stand mixers on the market.

There's more detail in our full KitchenAid Artisan review, conducted by our expert Head of Reviews, Millie Fender.

What's the best KitchenAid for baking?

KitchenAid Professional 5 Plus Series 5 Quart Bowl-Lift Stand Mixer |was $449, now $279 at Best Buy
The Professional 5 Plus Series is your best bet. We think the KitchenAid Pro Line 7 Quart Stand Mixer is best for baking, but we're yet to see a any special offers in the after-Christmas sales. If you want a discount, this 5 quart version is the best alternative. 

The Professional differs from the Artisan with a bowl-lift design, as opposed to the tilt-head of the Artisan, which provides better stability. It also offers more power, 525 watts, compared to the Artisan's 325 Watts. This means that it powers through bread doughs with ease, kneading perfect loaves and pizza bases. 

There's more detail in Millie's expert KitchenAid Pro Line Stand Mixer review.

Value Bundle Artisan Series 5 Quart Tilt-Head Stand Mixer with Fresh Prep Slicer/Shredder Attachment | was $449.99, now $349.99 at KitchenAid 
Just caught this on the KitchenAid website. This  new bundle deal is the same price as a standard Artisan stand mixer but throws in a free Fresh Prep attachment that will help you shred cheese and slice vegetables in seconds. This is easily the best deal I've seen today, so grab it while there's stock.

KitchenAid vs Smeg: Which is better? 

The truthful answer is that this simply isn't a fair comparison. The KitchenAid has more attachments, a much bigger collection, more colors and more power. Don't get me wrong, Smeg mixers are great, and we love the lower price point and the retro looks. But when we put them to the test, we gave the KitchenAid Artisan a 5-star rating and the Smeg stand mixer a 4-star rating. There's no way around it: the KitchenAid artisan is a clear winner. 

K400 Variable Speed Blender with Tamper KSB4028 | was $279.99, now $219 at Macy's 
No surprises here, yet another KitchenAid machine finding its way into one of our buyers' guides. In our ranking of the best blenders, we rated this powerful blender as 'best for professional results'. It has a 3-part blending system and a unique asymmetric blade that cuts at four distinct angles. This ensures all sorts of ingredients - including ice - are thoroughly blended, and it can be controlled by the 5-speed variable speed dial or the 3 Preset Recipe Programs.

Did you know you can shop KitchenAid refurbs and new and unused mixers on eBay?

One of my top tips for shopping for a KitchenAid is to check out eBay. You can find refurbished models at enormous discounts if you shop savvy.

The basic structure of things has hardly needed to change from the 1950s, and we routinely hear stories of them being passed down through generations. The upshot is that you can find a KitchenAid on eBay that's a few years old but works like a dream. They're also really characterful - a quick scroll has just uncovered one KitchenAid painted with cherry blossom and another in black leopard print. 

However, always read the details thoroughly to ensure you are ordering exactly what you expect. Check delivery lead times and seller reviews, too. 

Good morning everyone, this is Alex David, Head of eCommerce here at Homes & Gardens. I'll be bringing you all the very latest KitchenAid deals — live. 

KitchenAid Pro Line 7 qt. Bowl-Lift Stand Mixer |was $649.99, now $449.99 at KitchenAid
Don't walk — run to the KitchenAid site. It's the first time that I've seen the KitchenAid Pro Line mixer reduced in the after-Christmas sales. Our expert testers voted it the best stand mixer for serious or professional bakers. It easily powers through bread dough and cake batters, but it usually commands the highest price of any KitchenAid mixer, so this deal is well worth considering. 

KitchenAid Artisan Stand Mixer | was $479.99, now $344.99 at Bed Bath and Beyond
If you don't mind which colour stand mixer you get, the lowest price on the Artisan I've seen in the after-Christmas sales is this silver model at Bed Bath and Beyond, $5 cheaper than on the KitchenAid website. 

I've put this in the blog a few times, but worth including again. A lot of these mixers look very similar and have similar names, so a brief explainer:

• KitchenAid Artisan: the best stand mixer on the market. Tilt-head, 5 quart capacity.
• KitchenAid Pro Line Series: the best stand mixer for serious bakers. Bowl-lift, 7 quart capacity.
• KitchenAid Artisan Mini: the best mini stand mixer you can buy. Tilt-head, 3.5 quart capacity.
• KitchenAid Classic: virtually identical to the Artisan, but less power and capacity. A good option if you're baking on a budget. Tilt-head, 4.5 quart capacity.

Refurbished KitchenAid Pro Line 7 qt. Bowl-Lift Stand Mixer |was $399.99, now $279.99 at KitchenAid
The absolute lowest price for a Pro Line so far is at KitchenAid. To be clear, this is a refurbished model, and only available in black, but it's unlikely you'll find this model for any cheaper. A brand new model usually sets you back $649.99, so in real terms this deals saves you more than $300.

Psst. UK readers. Before America wakes up, here's my pick for the best KitchenAid deal on the British market: 

KitchenAid Artisan Series 5 Quart Tilt-Head Stand Mixer and Mini Chopper | was £499, now £399.99 at Currys
This deal from Currys will save you £100 and it throws in KitchenAid's mini chopper for free, which is among our picks for the best food processor. It's only available in Milkshake, but I think it's a better offer than those at John Lewis and Lakeland. You can get the Artisan for a little cheaper on KitchenAid's own website, but you'll miss out on the mini chopper. 

KitchenAid Pro Line 5 qt. Bowl-Lift Stand Mixer | was $549.98, now $354.98 at Best Buy
Save a huge $195 on this package deal. It includes the KitchenAid Pro Line Bowl-Lift stand mixers and the 7 Blade Spiralizer Plus attachment, which can spiralize, peel, slice and core fruits and vegetables in seconds. 

Good morning! I'm Holly Reaney, content editor here at Homes & Gardens. I've been scouring the internet to find the best KitchenAid deals to ensure you don't miss out. 

KitchenAid Artisan Series 5-Quart Tilt-Head Stand Mixer | was $449.95, now $349.96 at Sur La Table
When it comes to the KitchenAid Artisan 5-quart stand mixer, the main debate is which of the beautiful colors to choose. It's a big decision, especially since this piece is likely to be a staple in your kitchen ideas for many years to come. In the sales, your choice of color is largely dictated by the price, but I've found that Sur La Table has a whole host of different options on sale – just $349.96.

You can choose from Empire Red; Contour Silver; Lavender Cream; Matte Dried Rose; Blue Velvet; White; Pistachio and Milkshake – I especially love the Blue Velvet shade, it's so pretty and would look great in my kitchen.

KitchenAid Artisan Series 5-Quart Tilt-Head Stand Mixer | was $449.99, now $349.99 at Bed, Bath & Beyond
With only a few left, if you’re hoping to save money at Bed Bath & Beyond on a new KitchenAid stand mixer, then you need to move quickly. 

Offering a $100 discount on the original price, the Artisan Tilt-Head Stand 5 qt. Mixer is available for just $349.99 and includes a flat beater; dough hook; wire whip and pouring shield.

Even though the mixers are out of stock for home delivery, there are some specific colorways still available for in-store collection.

KitchenAid® Ice Cream Maker Attachment | was $99.95, now $74.96 at Sur La Table
Do you fancy delicious homemade ice cream in less than 20 minutes? Then KitchenAid’s ice cream maker attachment is a must. Easily identifiable by its fluted bowl (the previous model has smooth sides), KitchenAid’s new ice cream maker stays colder for longer meaning better ice cream in less time. Plus, it's now $24.99 off at Sur La Table!

The attachment is designed to be kept in the freezer, so you can spontaneously sate your ice cream cravings with delicious homemade ice cream, slushies, gelato or frozen yogurt!

The ice cream maker is compatible with all models of KitchenAid tilt-head stand mixers except the Artisan Mini.

KitchenAid Classic Series 4.5 Quart Tilt Stand Mixer | was $329.99, now $259.99 at Bloomingdale's
For those looking for KitchenAid’s slightly more compact Classic stand mixer, then the 4.5-quart tilt is only $259.99 at Bloomingdale’s – a $70 saving! Available in white or onyx black, the Classic stand mixer comes with the same dough hook, paddle, and whisk as the larger Artisan model.

The Classic stand mixer can make up to 72 cookies in a single batch – which is more than enough for a large and hungry family. However, the main differences between the classic and artisan are that it features Soft-Start – as the name suggests, this means that all settings start slowly to prevent messy spillages.

The other notable difference is that its bowl is brushed rather than polished, which helps to hide the inevitable scratches and smudges, while its lack of handles makes the unit slightly more compact. Bloomingdale’s sale ends on 12/31/22.

Hey, this is Lucy, Editor in Chief of Homes & Gardens. I just wanted to drop in to recommend the KitchenAid mixer I have in my kitchen – and a great deal on it.

K400 Variable Speed Blender with Tamper KSB4028 | was $279.99, now $219 at Macy's 
This is my favorite KitchenAid mixer. I don't bake, but I do love to make smoothies and cocktails, and this is perfect for both. In our ranking of the best blenders, we rated this powerful blender as best for professional results. It has a 3-part blending system and a unique asymmetric blade that cuts at four distinct angles. This ensures all sorts of ingredients - including ice - are thoroughly blended, and it can be controlled by the 5-speed variable speed dial or the 3 Preset Recipe Programs.

Baffled about which KitchenAid attachments you need?

We have a guide: How to use KitchenAid mixer attachments so that you can easily demystify which you're most likely to use (or not). It's useful because not all KitchenAid mixers come supplied with all attachments – some need to be bought separately, too. I found the section on what NOT to use attachments for, too. 

KitchenAid® Ice Cream Maker Attachment | was $99.95, now $74.96 at Sur La Table

Talking of attachments (below)... do you fancy delicious homemade ice cream in less than 20 minutes? Then KitchenAid’s ice cream maker attachment is a must. Easily identifiable by its fluted bowl (the previous model has smooth sides), KitchenAid’s new ice cream maker stayed colder for longer than the previous model meaning better ice cream in less time. 

Plus, if you keep it in the freezer, you can spontaneously sate your ice cream cravings with delicious homemade ice cream, slushies, gelato or frozen yogurt – it’ll be way better than anything you can buy in the shops. 

The ice cream maker is compatible with all models of KitchenAid tilt-head stand mixer except the Artisan Mini. 

Refurbished KitchenAid Pro Line 7 qt. Bowl-Lift Stand Mixer |was $399.99, now $279.99 at KitchenAid
The absolute lowest price for a Pro Line so far is at KitchenAid. To be clear, this is a refurbished model, and only available in black, but it's unlikely you'll find this model for any cheaper. A brand new model usually sets you back $649.99, so in real terms this deals saves you more than $300.

KitchenAid or Cuisinart? 

Our Head of Reviews, Millie Fender has put KitchenAid vs Cuisinart stand mixers, in a direct head to head, throwing bake after bake at them to work out which brand came out on top. 

The answer? Both are fantastic models, but while the Cuisinart wins out on price, you simply cannot beat the KitchenAid Artisan.

Hello, this is Jennifer, the digital editor at Homes & Gardens on here to find you the best deals on the internet. KitchenAid sales are happening right now and it's the absolute best time to invest in a new mixer. 

For the lowest price KitchenAid Mixer I can find, Walmart comes out on top with an impressive $200 OFF! With only a few left, if you’re hoping to save money on a new KitchenAid stand mixer, then you need to move quickly.

KitchenAid KSM105GBC Stand Mixer | was $599.99, now $399.99 at Walmart

KitchenAid Artisan 10-Speed Stand Mixer – Hearth & Hand with Magnolia |was $449.99 now $349.99 at Target 

If you adore Joanna Gaines and want a KitchenAid stand mixer that is truly unique, then this exclusive stand mixer could be the one for you. 

One of the most on-trend of kitchen colors, green appliances are highly-desired. It's certainly on my wish list!

KitchenAid Cordless 7-Speed Hand Mixer | was $99.99 now $79.99 at Amazon 

When we reviewed this hand mixer, we loved how handy this cordless KitchenAid hand mixer is for quicker and easy jobs where you don't want to drag out your stand mixer. This small but mighty hand mixer can whip enough dough for 200 cookies on a single charge. 

KitchenAid 4 Slice Toaster | was $79.99 now $74.99 at Wayfair 

Did you know that KitchenAid made toasters – and very good ones at that? This must-have appliance is made from stainless steel and has an auto shut-off function, as well as preventing your toast from getting burned if it gets jammed inside. And it's easy to clean thanks to the pull-out crumb tray. 

KitchenAid Professional 5 Plus Series 5 Quart Bowl-Lift Stand Mixer |was $449, now $279.99 at Best Buy

For one of the lowest price KitchenAid stand mixers we can find, Best Buy is your best bet, and they still hold stock in all four colors: red, black, silver and blue.

The Professional differs with its bowl-lift design, as opposed to the tilt-head of the Artisan, and provides better stability. It also offers more power, 525 watts, compared to the Artisan's 325 Watts. It does not come with a pouring shield.

Morning everyone, this is Alex David, Head of eCommerce at Homes & Gardens, back again to keep you updated in real time on the best KitchenAid deals in the after-Christmas sales.

KitchenAid Pro Line 7 Quart Bowl-Lift Stand Mixer |was $679.95, now $579.95 at Williams Sonoma
KitchenAid have stopped their sale on this mixer, so this morning's best deal is at Williams Sonoma. Our tests found that it's the best stand mixer for serious baking. 

Value Bundle Artisan Series 5 Quart Tilt-Head Stand Mixer with Fresh Prep Slicer/Shredder Attachment | was $499.99, now $349.99 at KitchenAid 
The best value deal for the KitchenAid Artisan this morning is this bundle deal. You get $10 off the Artisan and a free Fresh Prep attachment that will help you shred cheese and slice vegetables in seconds. This is still the best deal on the Artisan I've seen in the after-Christmas sales, so grab it while it's live.

KitchenAid Artisan Series 5 Quart Tilt-Head Stand Mixer| was $449.99, now $349.99 at KitchenAid 
As a general update, there's no movement on the KitchenAid Artisan sale price. Because every retailer is selling it for $349.99, your best bet is to buy it direct from KitchenAid, because they have the biggest range of colors and a free engraving service. This mixer is our pick for the best stand mixer on the market, and it's rarely discounted, so snap it up while you can. 

These mixers all look similar and have similar names. A quick explainer:

• KitchenAid Artisan: the best stand mixer on the market. Tilt-head, 5 quart capacity.
• KitchenAid Pro Line Series: the best stand mixer for bread makers. Bowl-lift, 7 quart capacity. Also available with a 5 quart capacity.
• KitchenAid Artisan Mini: the best mini stand mixer you can buy. Tilt-head, 3.5 quart capacity.
• KitchenAid Classic: virtually identical to the Artisan, but less power. A good option if you're baking on a budget. Tilt-head, 4.5 quart capacity.

KitchenAid Classic K45SSWH Stand Mixer, was $329.99, now $259.99 at KitchenAid
If you want a KitchenAid Artisan but still find the sale price a little eye-watering, a Classic stand mixer is a good choice. It has the same iconic tilt-lift design, but a slightly smaller capacity and less power put this stand mixer under $260. Missing half a quart doesn't make too much difference, as you can still make up to 8 dozen cookies in a single batch.

Did you know you can shop KitchenAid refurbs and new and unused mixers on eBay?
As ever, one of my top tips for buying a KitchenAid is to check out eBay. You can find refurbished models at enormous discounts if you shop savvy.

However, always read the details thoroughly to ensure you are ordering exactly what you expect - when I first saw this model originally listed for $1.99 it became pretty obvious that it needs some serious maintenance to get it going. Check other customers' reviews, too,  to make sure the seller is legitimate. 

Hi everybody, I hope all is well! I am Megan, the News Editor at Homes & Gardens. I'll be scouting the very best KitchenAid deals for the next few hours – stay tuned...

KitchenAid Artisan® 5-Speed Ultra Power Hand Mixer| was $59.99, now $44.99 at Amazon

KitchenAid's Ultra Power Hand Mixer makes cooking a joy. Its five settings allow you to seamlessly mix ingredients for a variety of recipes – whether you're slowly stirring in chunky ingredients (like chocolate chips) or whipping eggs at high speed. You can also lock the cord into either the left or right side of the mixer – making it easy to approach ingredients from any angle. Plus, the round cord is easy to wipe clean when it comes to reorganizing your kitchen post-bake.

KitchenAid 2022 Design Series Blossom Tilt-Head Stand Mixer| was $699.99, now $599.99 at KitchenAid 

The only thing better than a powerful stand mixer is a powerful stand mixer that knows how to make a statement in your kitchen. Enter – the 2022 Design Series Blossom Tilt-Head Stand Mixer – aka one of the most stylish mixers on the market. And it's on sale now. 

This kitchen countertop icon is almost too good-looking to be practical, but don't let its style detract from its functionality. Instead, the mixer has ten speeds that can tackle nearly every recipe – and it's great for breaking butter with the specially-designed pastry beater. Plus, who can resist its botanical accents and thyme-green color? Certainly not us.

KitchenAid 1.25 Liter Electric Kettle| was $99.99, now $79.99 at Bloomingdales

Few moments rival the taste of that first coffee in a morning – or a serene afternoon tea. However, you can elevate these moments further by investing in a kettle that your daily routine deserves. The best kettle for the job? KitchenAid's electric appliance (that is on sale at Bloomingdales now). This kettle combines an easy-to-use design with a sleek, stylish compact profile, so you don't need to be scared to showcase it on your countertop.

KitchenAid Semi-Automatic Espresso Machine | was $349.99, now $249.99 at Bed Bath & Beyond

Coffee lovers, if you haven't already snapped up the electric kettle below, you're probably going to want to know about KitchenAid's Espresso Machine – which is another stylish way to get your caffeine fix. 

This sleek appliance is one of the best coffee makers available – exhibiting an attractive design that is hard not to admire. The machine boasts an intelligent temperature sensor and an automatic milk frother that allows you to create espressos, lattes, and cappuccinos to perfection.

Good morning! It's Jaclyn, H&G's ecommerce editor. I'll be providing updates on KitchenAid deals into the afternoon. Let's get started. 

KitchenAid Whispering Floral Ceramic Standmixer Bowl | Was $99.99, now $85.10 at Wayfair

While you can showcase your personality by choosing a KitchenAid mixer in your favorite color, you can further customize your design by opting for one of KitchenAid's stand mixer bowls. I imagine this subtle floral design paired with a stunning pastel for a springy, romantic feel. The ceramic bowl is dishwasher, oven, and microwave safe, comes with a 5-year no-chip warranty, and is compatible with 4.5- and 5-qt. machines.  Plus, if you're frequently making numerous recipes back to back that requires the use of a mixer, it can be convenient to have an extra bowl on hand to reduce having to pause to clean in between. 

Should you buy a stand mixer or a hand mixer?

In the debate of stand mixer vs hand mixer, which is the best option for you? In an ideal world, your kitchen would have both, but if that's not possible due to space or budget constraints, here are the pros and cons of each. Hand mixers can be (nearly) as effective as stand mixers, with different speeds to suit a variety of tasks, but for frequent bakers, a stand mixer will be the more comfortable option.

Go for the stand mixer if:

• You frequently bake or will be mixing large portions
• Plan to mix thicker mixtures like dough
• Interested in using the power hub for attachments
• Have space to store or display a stand mixer
• Like the idea of automating the process

Go for the hand mixer if

• Looking to spend less money
• Tight on space
• Want something portable for quick projects
• Casual baking projects like brownies, cakes, and whipped cream
• Want to use any bowl

KitchenAid Color of the Year 2022 Artisan Stand Mixer | Was $499.99, now $369.99 at Crate & Barrel

2022 may be nearing its end, but it can live on with KitchenAid's 2022 Color of the Year. The color Beetroot is rich magenta with an energizing and uplifting spirit. This Artisan mixer also comes with a premium accessory pack including includes a Pastry Beater, Flex Edge Beater, Dough Hook and Wire Whip, and Pouring Shield. 

Special price alert

KitchenAid Pro 600 6-qt Bowl Lift Stand Mixer with Flex Edge | Was $599.98, now $367.48 at QVC

QVC typically offers the KitchenAid Pro 600 for a special price of $499, but this special deal brings one of KitchenAid's most powerful options very close to the price of the Artisans. Not to mention, the range of colors is quite nice and it comes with a flex edge beater for extra versatility, in addition to the flat beater that comes standard. 

Plus, QVC has lowered the price of shipping and handling for a tremendous value on one of KitchenAid's most powerful stand mixers, though new QVC shoppers can get free shipping with code FREESHIP

How to save an extra 20% on a KitchenAid at Bed Bath & Beyond

About those infamous Bed Bath & Beyond 20% off coupons... we got to our cart, and the KitchenAid Artisan rang up at just $279.99 when we activated a 20% off coupon valid on a single item at Bed Bath & Beyond. Enter your email when you see the pop-up and try it yourself! We're talking about a $170 savings. 

It appears to work on any KitchenAid item, though if stand mixers are what you're after, they appear to have stock on the 5-qt. Artisan Series, 6-qt, or the Professional 600 series. Choose wisely. 

Morning all, this is Alex David, Head of eCommerce here at H&G. It looks like this might be my last post in this blog. I'll keep an eye but the big discounts on KitchenAid are winding down, with no more deals on the KitchenAid site or at the big online department stores. However, if you're quick, Amazon still has deals:

KitchenAid Classic Stand Mixer | was $329.99, now $265.98 at Amazon
A KitchenAid Classic stand mixer is a good choice if your budget can't stretch to an Artisan mixer. It has the same iconic tilt-lift design, but a slightly smaller capacity and less power mean a lower price. In the grand scheme of things, missing half a quart doesn't make too much difference - you can still make up to 8 dozen cookies in a single batch.

KitchenAid 3.5 Quart Artisan Mini Plus Stand Mixer | was $379.99, now $299.99 at Amazon
This compact version of the classic KitchenAid Artisan mixer brings plenty of power in a miniature mixer. It's our pick for the very best mini mixer you can buy, and it's a great option to save on space. The 3.5-qt capacity is enough to mix up 60 cookies in a single batch, and comes with you expect from a KitchenAid, including a stainless-steel bowl, dough hook, flex edge beater, wire whip, and pouring shield. 

We'll shout our love for KitchenAid stand makers any day of the week, but will admit they are undoubtedly expensive. So when are KitchenAid mixers on sale?

The best time of the year to buy a KitchenAid mixer is from Black Friday through to the after Christmas sales – specifics below, plus today's best deals. However, there are KitchenAid sales on year round.

And, yes, it's worth the wait, because the savings to be had can be well over $100. Below, are today's best deals, plus full details of when KitchenAid mixers are on sale.

When is the best time to buy a KitchenAid Stand Mixer?

Ahead of the holiday season, prices on the best KitchenAid stand mixers tend to drop between October and December, with a typical savings of about 20%. 

Our tracking data also shows further discounts on KitchenAid stand mixers in February, May, August, and September, but not at the volume of the fall and holiday periods. 

These are today's best prices, and below we talk you through what to expect in terms of price drops throughout the year.

Retailer deals throughout the year

Throughout the year, retailers will put on promotions of their own, offering chances to save on the covetable stand mixers. Some will even price-match if you're lucky, or offer special Friends and Family type sales where KitchenAid is included in storewide promotions. These are the best places to find KitchenAid mixers on sale.

• KitchenAid
• Amazon
• Bed Bath & Beyond
• Best Buy
• eBay
• The Home Depot
• Macy’s
• Target
• Sur La Table
• Walmart
• Wayfair

Black Friday through Christmas

This year's Black Friday and Cyber Week deals saw KitchenAid offer up to $200 off its KitchenAid Stand Mixer, with the Professional Series having the highest savings. 

These prices were effective from about just before Black Friday through Christmas, when the offer was ongoing, but we definitely have noticed inventory in color choice start to dwindle. 

Amazon Prime Day

Amazon Prime Day has sealed its fate as a shopping event; fortunately, KitchenAid is known to participate. In 2022, prices on the Artisan dropped around $100 for roughly two weeks surrounding the October Prime Day period. 

Prior to that, in July, prices dropped about $50-$60, making it prime time for those looking for discounts. 

Other ways to save on KitchenAid Stand mixers

Purchase certified refurbished
KitchenAid directly offers certified refurbished models that come with a limited warranty with savings of up to 45%, but inventory is limited and volatile. You can often find refurbished models on eBay to that also come with their own warranties. 

Buy used and secondhand
The biggest discounts will come when you purchase a used unit. Also, shopping locally, as opposed to shipping can save on costs and environmental emissions. Check your local re-sale marketplaces like Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, or Mercari to see which neighbors are looking to offload their kitchen appliances 

Open box products
Some stores like Best Buy offer discounts on open-box models (items that have been opened but not used) from returns or floor models that can be picked up at your local retailer. Availability depends on your location. Be sure to read the fine print as to the condition. 

Both KitchenAid and Wolf stand mixers are highly regarded, from excellent kitchen brands that sell a range of products that compete healthily on style, function, and price. 

So which is best, and which will suit your cooking needs and kitchen more?

In this KitchenAid vs Wolf Gourmet comparison, we take an in-depth look at the offers from both brands to see which has the best stand mixers. We've spent a considerable amount of time in the kitchen with both to speak with authority on the key differences you need to know before buying, breaking down their functions, prices, availability, and special features. 

And while KitchenAid is perhaps best known for its range of stand mixers, Wolf's single offering is justifiably a powerhouse too. Let's get into it. 

KitchenAid vs Wolf Gourmet stand mixers

Below we look at the considerations you need to know about when comparing KitchenAid and Wolf stand mixers.

Product overview

KitchenAid has the most diverse line up, and there's truly a model for everyone, spread across a range of prices, sizes and colors. The Classic collection is great for the casual baker with a lower price point, the Artisan series is best known for its rainbow of color options with a tilt-head design, while the Professional range is for the serious baker, with 5 qt, 6 qt., and 7 qt. capacity options and utilizes a bowl-lift design, making it most comparable to the Wolf design. 

Another excellent feature of KitchenAid stand mixers is its extensive range of compatible attachments, including juicers, ice cream makers, pasta rollers, meat grinders, food processors, and more that transform your mixer into a multi-appliance, offering you maximum versatility. This is a money and space-saving feature that makes your stand mixer all the more valuable. 

Wolf offers a single mixer option, and it's hands down a top option for serious bakers with a mighty 500W power option, 10 speeds, plus a pulse function, and it's an extremely sturdy design that doesn't shake, grumbles or overheat. It also has a specialty attachment area with a magnetic cover to protect when not in use, but the only readily available attachment is the meat grinder.

Appearance-wise, Wolf's design is more industrial and modern looking, only available in brushed stainless steel though it does come with knobs in its signature red, black, or chrome for you to personalize your device. It's only available in the large 7 qt. size, though it had no difficulty working with smaller portions. 

Tilt-head vs Bowl Lift

Tilt-head: The most common stand mixer design, such as the Artisan and Classic uses a tilt-head mechanism to add and remove mixing attachments. It works with a locking dial that can be pulled to release the stand mixer head either up or down and makes it slightly easier to put the mixing bowl into place. 

Bowl lift: The KitchenAid Professional Series uses a bowl-lift design, like the Wolf, though both work slightly differently, and offer better stability for heavier mixtures than tilt-head designs as the bowl is securely locked into place while the head stays stationary.

On the Professional, you push the bowl down onto the handles and then lift it into place by twisting the lever on the side of the mixer; while on the Wolf, you simply line up the bowl at the base and twist to gently lift it closer to the mixing parts and lock it securely in place. 

Pricing

KitchenAid, though by no means cheap, is significantly a more affordable model with its models retailing between $379.99 for a mini 3.5 qt. to $649.99 for its Pro-Series. During holiday promotions, it's not uncommon to find savings of up to $200 off a KitchenAid. 

Wolf retails for $999.95. 

Where to buy KitchenAid and Wolf stand mixers

KitchenAid has pretty wide availability and is available at most major retailers that carry housewares including:

• KitchenAid
• Amazon
• Bed Bath & Beyond
• Best Buy
• Sur La Table
• Target

Wolf Gourmet has fewer stockists, with the best place to purchase Wolf products being:

• Best Buy
• Sur La Table
• Williams Sonoma

KitchenAid vs Wolf Gourmet stand mixer: Which is better for making cake or cookies?

As a countertop stand mixer, both KitchenAid and Wolf can easily power through the cake and cookie batters with their respective flat beaters or whisk, if you're making a light sponge cake. When testing, I preferred the slick coated design of Wolf's beater attachments that kept batter from sticking, but our other tester Millie Fender typically preferred the whisk. For this, it can come down to personal preference, as well as the consistency of what you're making.

KitchenAid vs Wolf Gourmet stand mixer: Which is better for making bread?

The Wolf has a powerful robust motor and gearing system to handle denser recipes like pretzel or bagel doughs, making it ideal for thicker batters. It also has a built-in venting system that helps keep the motor at a lower temperature for optimal mixing of higher-volume ingredients or numerous batches. 

Meanwhile, in our reviews of the KitchenAid Professional and the Artisan, our tester Millie, noted 'When I tested the KitchenAid Artisan stand mixer, I found that the smaller motor struggled to knead bread without causing the machine to shake. With the KitchenAid Pro Line Stand Mixer, this was no matter.'

KitchenAid vs Wolf Gourmet stand mixer: Which is better for whipped topping?

Both KitchenAid and Wolf easily whip up frothy whipping creams, meringues, and more with minimal effort and at great speeds. Depending on how much you're making, the larger 7-qt bins of the Wolf and the Pro line may simply feel like you're not making enough, even though you are. For this, you could get on just fine with the Artisan, which did not make whipped cream as quickly as the Wolf did, but the longer pace did give us time to monitor it and keep it from getting too firm. 

KitchenAid vs Wolf Gourmet stand mixers: Which is best?

In our reviews, both the KitchenAid Artisan and Professional Series and the Wolf Gourmet Stand Mixer took home 5-star ratings in our reviews, meaning we're clearly enamored with all three models, though for different reasons. 

The sheer versatility and color options of the KitchenAid Artisan make it an easy favorite, while the Professional offers increased stability, power, and size that's more comparable to the Wolf. We go more into the differences between two in our KitchenAid Artisan vs Professional comparison too. 

Meanwhile, the sheer performance and mixing power of the Wolf stand mixer created a whole new tier for household mixers, in our opinion. In all cases, the Wolf dealt better with bread dough.

The biggest differences that aside? Price, color options and silhouette. In our opinion, you will find both a pleasure to use, so your final choice will come down to your budget and style preferences.

A stand mixer is one of my favorite kitchen tools; it saves time and effort while improving the texture and quality of my sweet treats. The best stand mixers will thoroughly mix batters, whip the fluffiest icing, and effortlessly knead dough – without you needing to lift a finger. The worst will struggle on basic tasks, become tricky to clean, and break within a year of use. But never fear, you won't find any duds on our tried-and-tested list.

As a professionally trained cook and appliances expert at Homes & Gardens, I've tested the top stand mixers to find the most powerful, effective, and reliable options for real home cooks. I've also collated years of notes from our team of product testers, interviewed professional bakers, and sifted through over 2,000 customer reviews to assess real-life experiences. You can read about our rigorous testing criteria below, but for now, I'll get straight to the point: the KitchenAid Artisan Stand Mixer remains our winning mixer.

I've rounded the rest of our favorites into quick list, which covers everything from budget-friendly options to professional models with enormous capacity, extra accessories, and even ice cream functions. Here's everything you need to know about the best stand mixers.

The quick list

Here's a quick introduction to our favorite stand mixers on the market. If you want to know more, we go deep into the details further down this guide.

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Best stand mixers 2025

The best stand mixer overall

Notes from the test kitchen

What we liked: This iconic, American-made stand mixer is a statement piece in any kitchen, but don't let looks deceive you – it's a real workhorse. With 10 speed settings, it was slow enough for kneading dough and fast enough to make speedy whipped cream with perfect results (see our score sheet below). The tilt-head makes it a joy to use, and it was easy to add ingredients and switch out attachments.

These attachments include a wire whisk for beating eggs, a flat beater for integrating cake batter, and a hook to work your bread dough. Our tester, Millie, was particularly impressed by the flat beater, which creamed sugar and butter with minimal intervention before adding in eggs and flour to make easy loaf cakes. There's actually a wide range of fun attachments you can tack onto this KitchenAid, which adds exceptional value. My favorite is the ice cream maker attachment, which can expertly churn ice cream, sorbet, and frozen yogurt.

What we didn't like: The wire whisk isn't dishwasher-safe, so you need to hand-wash this attachment. Plus, some customers find that cleaning the nooks and crannies around the attachment hub and the mixer head can be a bit challenging.

Who would it suit? Our tester, Millie, said: 'If you're catering for a crowd or baking professionally, you'll want something bigger. I found the 5-quart capacity could turn out two chocolate sponge cakes in one go, but could only make one loaf of bread at a time. Otherwise, at-home bakers can't go wrong with this classic. It really is the best in class.

There's more detail in our KitchenAid Artisan Stand Mixer review.

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The best value stand mixer

Notes from the test kitchen

What we liked: The KitchenAid vs Cuisinart debate is a hot topic, but if value for money is your main priority, the Cuisinart Precision Stand Mixer is your winner. It's 0.5 quarts bigger than the KitchenAid Artisan, and it excels on heavy-duty tasks like kneading bread thanks to the sturdy design and high-quality attachments.

Controlled by a simple side dial, it packs 500 watts of power and comes with 12 speed settings (two more than the KitchenAid.) The dial makes it easy to adjust the speed midway through mixing, and the tilt-head design helps you to add ingredients as and when you need.

Our tester, Millie, loved the slow-start design that saves you from messy clouds of icing sugar or flour as you bake. Though it can't match the KitchenAid for colors, the six options - periwinkle blue, white, silver, red, black, and robin's egg green - suit almost every kitchen.

What we didn't like: While it excels at mixing bread, we found that our sweet treat ingredients stuck to the side of the bowl. If you make more cakes and small batches of cookies, you may be irritated by the fact that there is no side scraper attachment to integrate all of your ingredients. Keep a spatula handy to get a good bake. Plus, lots of customer reviews have noted that the higher speed settings are noisy – and we have to agree, it's on the noisy side.

Who would it suit? Anyone on a budget – the combination of price, power and versatility really can't be beaten.

There's more detail in our Cuisinart Precision Stand Mixer review.

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The best stand mixer for bread dough

What we liked: If you regularly whip up sweet brioche and sourdough bread (or you have aspirations), the Ankarsrum stand mixer could be your new best friend. When I tested it, I felt as though I had an artisan baker helping me out in the kitchen. The unique rotating bowl mimics the motions of hand-kneading, while the whopping 1500-watt motor effortlessly works the densest dough. It's a real Swedish powerhouse.

But it doesn't stop at bread. This versatile mixer excels at combining cake batter and combining cookie dough. The accessories include a scraper, a paddle insert that prevents ingredients from getting stuck to the sides, and a dough roller. There is also a formidable-looking dough hook, best used for seriously intense bakes. If you want to explore more mixer accessories, there's a pantry-load to choose from on Ankarsrum.com – including citrus juicers, pasta rollers, mincers, ice cream makers, and cookie cutters.

We were equally impressed by the Nordic design, available in 12 chic colors. It's pretty heavy, but that's what makes it stable and study. The low, elongated base will sit neatly under your kitchen counters. It is on the pricey side, but you can really feel the quality.

What we didn't like: I slightly glossed over the price while I was singing praises in the paragraph above, but it really is quite expensive. The priciest option on this list, in fact. Also, if you're used to working with a KitchenAid, this design will take some getting used to – it's not quite as intuitive. It's also incredibly heavy and can be hard to move around the counter. Finally, this is a minor point, but the included recipe booklet isn't great – some recipes had annoying mistakes.

Who would it suit? For bread-lovers, this is a must-have mixer. Ankarsrum really prioritizes power and longevity; we're confident you'll be passing the Assistent Original down to your kids one day.

There's more detail in our Ankarsrum Mixer Review.

The best large capacity stand mixer

What we liked: The Wolf Gourmet Stand Mixer is a baker's dream, offering a flawless experience from whipping cream to kneading dough. Wolf have clearly thought carefully about the unique design of their stand mixer. Where the usual title-head design of other stand mixers can lead to instability, the Wolf Gourmet Stand Mixer has a special twist-up bowl design. Simply put this bowl in the base and then twist it to lower or raise it to the mixer attachments. It's undeniably stable, quiet and ideal for large batches.

At 7 quarts, it's much larger than all the other models on this list, so it's a great choice for professional or avid bakers. Our tester, Jacyln, said the Wolf mixer made the best cookies, fluffy cream, and it didn't even struggle with sticky enriched dough. It was easy to use and even easier to clean. A clear winner across the board performance-wise.

When we first reviewed it, there was a hefty $1000 price tag on the Wolf Gourmet –- which was very off-putting. Since then, the price has dropped significantly to a much more reasonable $499.95 on Amazon. This reduction has allowed it to surpass the KitchenAid Pro Line Stand Mixer which previously held this spot in our buying guide, costing $599.95.

What we didn't like: It's pretty tall, so won't work for every kitchen, and the stainless steel is more 'professional-working-kitchen' than style statement. Plus, it gathers fingerprints, so this might get annoying, too.

Who would it suit? Anyone who loves large baking projects and finds themselves reaching for their stand mixer on a weekly basis. If you have the space to store it, this sturdy stand mixer will last in your kitchen for years to come.

There's more detail in our Wolf Gourmet mixer review.

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The best stand mixer for small kitchens

Notes from the test kitchen

What we liked: This miniature marvel is much smaller and lighter than other KitchenAid models, but it still has the power to work through cake batter, cookie dough, and more. You get the same high-quality wire whisk, flat beater, and dough hook as you'd expect with a regular KitchenAid, but they work with a 3.5-quart bowl. Because it's smaller and less powerful than the average, it has the added bonus of being quieter, more stable on the countertop and easier to move around.

It's got that expensive KitchenAid price tag, but any attachments purchased separately will also still be compatible with this petite model, so you still get the full benefits of the KitchenAid brand – huge versatility, reliability, and a beautiful, practical appliance.

What we didn't like: It struggled a little on dense bread doughs and took longer than other mixers to whip cream. It's also pretty expensive for the size, costing about the same as the full-size budget pick above. It's worth thinking about future needs – if you want to bake larger batches in a few years time, it might be worth scaling up in size now.

Who would it suit? Of course, this is smaller than the other stand mixers we tested and therefore, best suited to people with petite kitchens. Our tester, Molly, said the capacity was still very impressive; she also recommends this model for small families.

There's more detail in Molly's KitchenAid Artisan Mini Stand Mixer review.

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The best looking stand mixer

Notes from the test kitchen

What we liked: Unlike the glossy red models you probably associate with the KitchenAid brand, this mixer is moody, dark, and mysterious. It's actually the Artisan frame (the model at at the top of this guide), but cast in a dark green hue with a walnut wood bowl. So, you're getting the classic KitchenAid quality, just with an elevated design.

Like all KitchenAid Artisan mixers, the evergreen model comes with a stainless steel whisk, dough hook, and flex edge beater. In the kitchen, I was able to mix perfect cake batter, whipped cream, and bread dough.

When this design first launched, critics were upset that the wood bowl can’t be soaked in the sink or popped into the dishwasher – but it's very easy to hand wash. My cake batter, dough, and sugary egg white mixtures lifted off effortlessly with soapy water and a soft sponge.

What we didn't like: The wood requires careful hand-washing, drying, and regular oiling and the matte frame requires buffing to remove fingerprints. This might become irritating for busy people who prefer dishwasher-safe items. You can actually purchase a metal, dishwasher-safe bowl if you like, but you will lose that aesthetic charm and you really are paying a premium just for the design.

Also, it's not a very reliable option for keen meringue bakers, since using a clean glass or metal bowl is the first rule of meringue-making (however, I did make meringues on my tests and they turned out great).

Who would it suit? Anyone with a natural kitchen scheme, who can afford to spend a little money to make a design statement with their mixer. This one is sure to get you envious looks from guests and compliments on social media.

You can read more in my full KitchenAid Design Series Evergreen Mixer review.

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Other stand mixers we tested

We've tested tonnes of stand mixers, so we've got a lot of thoughts to share with you. Below, you'll find the runners up and more links to reviews of stand mixers that we still rate, but they just didn't quite make the cut for our best stand mixer shortlist.

• Best design runner up: Smeg Retro Stand Mixer
• Best value runner up: Beautiful By Drew Barrymore
• Best large capacity runner up: KitchenAid Pro Line Classic review
• KitchenAid Classic Stand Mixer review
• Delish by Dash Stand Mixer review
• Kenwood Chef XL Titanium Stand Mixer review
• Kenwood kMix Stand Mixer review
• Instant Stand Mixer Pro review
• Hamilton Beach Electric Stand Mixer review

How to choose a stand mixer

Size: How much space do you have to dedicate to a new stand mixer? Some stand mixers come with large mixing bowls and tilt-head designs that won't lift if placed under a cabinet. Others come with a more compact design, perfect for slotting into shelving units when not in use or leaving in a corner without losing a whole counter in your kitchen.

Power: Any stand mixer which is less than 250 watts isn't worth investing in. You won't get far making even pancake batter with one of those. Powerful models will range from 500-1,000 watts and these won't struggle, even on tough bread doughs. I'd always opt for the more powerful motor.

Versatility: Stand mixer accessories are getting increasingly elaborate (you can get ice cream makers, meat grinders, ice shavers and more. However, on a basic level, your stand mixer should come with a flat beater, a whisk, and a dough hook. Look at the speed settings, because these will tell you whether your mixer can hand-fold ingredients as well as whipping up meringue.

Aesthetics: A stand mixer is a style statement in any kitchen, which is why you'll find one displayed in just about any carefully composed kitchen. Smeg and KitchenAid certainly have the edge on style, but you may end up paying a premium for something that looks the part when it's got just as much power as a less expensive option.

Price: If you want a top-of-the-range stand mixer, prepare to spend as much as $1000 to get it. Some stand mixers cost less than $100, but they are hardly the kitchen workhorses you'll want for serious baking on a regular basis. A good middle ground between power and price is the Cuisinart Precision Stand Mixer, which lacks color options or classic style, but is a favorite with many home bakers and looks lovely too.

The best stand mixer for you and your baking needs really depends on your budget and how often you’ll use this machine. Some mixers come with handy add-ons such as pasta makers and meat grinders to ensure they’re used regularly, but others have detachable mix heads and emphasize their primary function as stand mixers, with compact storage options.

Built to last: One thing’s for sure - you’ll want a stand mixer that lasts the test of time. There are stories of these mixers lasting for generations. Some excellent mixers come in durable plastic, but the very best stand mixers have durable stainless steel finishes that literally last a lifetime.

How we tested the best stand mixers

I'll level with you: we love testing stand mixers. Our team of experts are home baking enthusiasts, so all you have to do is suggest a recipe that you like the look of and, the next day, someone will have baked it.

To give each model that we test a fair chance, we have a series of standard tests that we put every single stand mixer through:

Making cake: Every stand mixer comes with a flat beater. These are perfect for heavier, non-yeast mixtures, such as cakes, cookie dough, meatloaf, mashed potatoes, frostings, and more. By making a cake mix, we can test a few factors that we look for in a flat beater. First, creaming butter and sugar together is a good test for how well the beater handles different textures, how quickly and evenly it can combine them, and how much mess it makes. Then, when we add in flour and eggs, we're looking for the flat beater to combine completely opposite textures (light flour, dense eggs, and oily butter) into a smooth, silky cake mix. The beater needs to reach the sides and bottom of the bowl, otherwise it will leave different ingredients behind, spoiling the final result of our bakes.

Kneading bread: Another attachment we get with all of our stand mixers is a dough hook. Our experts test it on pizza dough, bread dough, and enriched dough, since all of these have different requirements. Enriched dough can be sticky and delicate, whereas pizza dough and bread dough needs to be worked hard and with some power. As the gluten develops the bread dough bounces back more and the flour should all be incorporated, making the sides of the bowl almost clean. Before we bake our bread, we do the window test, where we stretch out a small section of dough. If it becomes thin, like a membrane, there's a good level of elasticity. If it breaks or sags, the bread is under or overworked.

Whipping cream: The final attachment that comes with every stand mixer is a whisk. We use this for buttercreams, meringues, custards, batters, and pancakes. When we're incorporating more than one ingredient in meringues and pancakes, we try to avoid lumps and any powder from splashing over the sides. If a brand provides a splash guard, you know it'll be fixed on from the get-go.

Our standard test is on whipped cream, since this is easy to check. We use heavy cream, set the machine running and watch it thicken up into stiff peaks. We'll time how long it takes, take some out for taste testing, and then keep the stand mixer running to see how long it takes to split the cream. You'll want to know whether you can take your eyes off your stand mixer or not. Once the cream has split, we add whole milk to see whether we can take it back to whipped cream. It's a great test of how gentle the stand mixer is.

Extra features: If there are other attachments, such as pasta makers, and ice cream functions (it's a whole world out there), we make sure to test them too. We'll let you know whether they're worth investing in and whether they're gimmicks.

We'll also celebrate a stand mixer with an integrated set of weighing scales or a timer, since these are incredibly useful. If there are any other innovative features, we love to shout about them, since the world of stand mixers is always tweaking small, but important extras.

For all of our tests, we take pictures, have a timer running, and a decibel counter. We'll talk about the features, maneuverability, capacity, and how easy it is to clean the stand mixers.

Taste tests: The proof is always in the pudding, so we taste-test everything too. We check that our cake is moist, light and fluffy; that our bread has a good crust, open texture, and spongy bake; and that our cream is like eating clouds. It's a tough life, really.

Value for money: After all that, we will step back and look at where the stand mixer is in the market. Because our tests are the same across the board, we can directly compare between models, giving you insight into what other brands offer around the same price point. We've gone deep comparing KitchenAids against each other, KitchenAid to Cuisinart and KitchenAid to Smeg.

We always let you know about value, warranty, and what other competitors offer. That way, when you make an investment, you know you have the full picture and you've only got good surprises waiting for you when yours arrives,

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Meet our expert testers

FAQs

Are stand mixers worth it?

If you love to bake and frequently find yourself in the kitchen, stand mixers are absolutely worth it. They save a whole bunch of time and effort in mixing, kneading, and whipping ingredients. They provide consistent results, can handle heavy doughs, make whipped cream in minutes and come with various attachments, making them a valuable tool for serious home cooks and bakers.

Why are stand mixers so expensive?

The first reason is the motor. A good stand mixer needs a powerful motor to handle strong, repetitive movement through resistant doughs and mixes. You might be able to get away with a cheaper stand mixer for a couple of years, but one day the motor will give out on a stiff dough and you'll have to buy another one, costing you more money in the long run. Top-line stand mixers from KitchenAid, Cuisinart, Smeg, and other iconic brands are reliable kitchen companions that last for decades, if not generations.

The other reason is attachments and functions. KitchenAids and other stand mixers aren't just for baking. With the right attachment, you can grate, spiralise, grind meat, mill, make pasta and much more. You're not only buying simpler, faster baking but better cooking no matter the dish.

If you're on a budget and looking to upgrade from your wooden spoon, it may be a good time to consider stand mixers versus hand mixers. The best hand mixer costs a lot less but can still power through icing and cake mix with ease.

Does KitchenAid make the best stand mixers?

Without a doubt, KitchenAid makes some of the best stand mixers on the market. They're classics for a reason. The attachments always reach the sides of the bowls, they're built to last a lifetime, and there are endless amounts of KitchenAid accessories that you can buy.

That being said, KitchenAid stand mixers are expensive and they're not the only good ones on the market. In fact, we have a whole buying guide dedicated to the best KitchenAid alternatives that we've tested.

What’s the difference between tilt-head and bowl-lift mixer?

Tilt-head mixers allow the mixing head to tilt back, so you can easily access the bowl and add new ingredients. They’re more compact, lightweight and suitable for home bakers with limited space and lighter mixing needs. However, they may be less stable and struggle with heavy dough. They typically have a smaller bowl capacity than bowl-lift mixers, too.

Bowl-lift mixers feature a lever that raises the bowl into place. They have broader bases, providing greater stability for their powerful motors. They also have a larger capacity – ideal for serious bakers who want to mix heavy dough. They do require more counter space though.

Choosing between the two depends on your passion for baking, space availability, and which type of recipes you typically prepare.

If you're shopping for a new stand mixer, the decision often comes down to KitchenAid vs. Cuisinart. KitchenAid is renowned for its iconic design, stylish color options, and dependable performance, while Cuisinart offers a more affordable yet powerful alternative. But which one is the best choice for you?

We've independently tested the best stand mixers on the market, including the KitchenAid Artisan and the Cuisinart Precision stand mixer. I'm a keen baker and trained cook myself, and along with our expert tester, Millie, we mixed cake batter, bread dough, and frosting in the kitchen to compare KitchenAid vs Cuisinart's performance, design, and overall value for money.

While they may seem similar at first glance, we found some important differences in price, capabilities, and usability that are worth knowing about. Below, we break down everything you need to know to make the right choice for your kitchen.

How do KitchenAid and Cuisinart compare?

At a glance

Below, we'll take a closer look at how these two mixers compare in terms of design, performance, versatility, warranty, and overall value. For now, these are the headlines.

Specification

When you look at the spec differences between the KitchenAid Artisan and Cuisinart Precision, in many ways, the Cuisinart is the front-runner. It has a more powerful motor, more speeds, a larger capacity, and the same attachments.

But, that's exactly why we've gone to the trouble of testing both mixers in person. The stats are certainly useful, but they don't give you a full picture of who these mixers suit and how they perform in a real kitchen.

Design

KitchenAid mixers are famous for their retro aesthetic and stunning array of colors. The Artisan model, in particular, has a timeless appeal and comes in numerous shades to match any kitchen. It's also compact enough to fit comfortably on most countertops. We cannot even list every color you can buy the KitchenAid Artisan in, but the total number is more than 40 – from simple Butter Yellow to the elegant Evergreen design series with the wooden bowl, which we tested last Autumn.

On the other hand, the Cuisinart Precision has a more modern, utilitarian design. While it's sleek and sturdy, it doesn't have the same visual charm as a KitchenAid. It also comes in fewer colors, limiting personalization options. The Cuisinart used to only have six colors: Onyx, Red, Bright Blue, Blue Mint, Chrome, and White. Recently, Cuisinart added some gorgeous pastels including Blushing Coral, Agave Green, and Arctic Blue. However, there's still no comparison between this range and the available colors for the KitchenAid Artisan.

Winner: KitchenAid

Performance

In our tests, both mixers performed well, with some small differences between them. The KitchenAid Artisan has a 325-watt motor, which is powerful enough for most home baking tasks. It handled bread dough, cake batter, and cookie dough effortlessly, without overheating.

The Cuisinart Precision, however, has a more powerful 500-watt motor, making it better suited for denser doughs and large batches. However, we noticed that the flat beater struggled to reach the bottom of the bowl when mixing smaller quantities, which could be a drawback for casual bakers.

Below, you'll find the breakdown from our performance tests, where we tried each of the included attachments to mix cake batter, bread dough, and whipped cream. If you want to know more, you can read the full details of our testing experiences in our Cuisinart Precision stand mixer review and KitchenAid Artisan stand mixer review.

Test 1: Cake batter

The flat beater with the Cuisinart and the KitchenAid both work effectively at making cake, but we did find that the KitchenAid Artisan did a better job of creaming butter and sugar together without assistance.

When we tested the Cuisinart, we had to go in with a spatula multiple times to scrape butter and sugar away from the sides of the bowl. Since the Cuisinart has a more capacious 5.5 quart bowl, it is also wider, which means the flat beater doesn't touch all sides of the bowl when beating and whipping.

If you make a lot of cakes, the KitchenAid will suit you better.

Winner: KitchenAid

Test 2: Bread dough

We tested both the Artisan and Precision mixers with our favorite homemade bread recipe. While it was close, Cuisinart did a better job. The KitchenAid's smaller motor had an effect here; we had to work on the lower speeds in order to not damage the machine. The mixer moved around the counter when kneading, and we felt like we had to supervise to make sure it didn't move too much or even fall over.

By contrast, Cuisinart was sturdy and reliable. It worked the bread dough for 10 minutes on a high speed, without needing any supervision. The dough was stretchy and smooth after ten minutes, and the machine itself was barely warm to touch. The resulting loaf of bread was excellent.

Winner: Cuisinart

Test 3: Whipped cream

This was pretty much even stevens. We loved the slow start setting on the Cuisinart, which avoided splattering the cream across the counter as it started whirring. The whisk did a great job of beating heavy cream into light clouds.

The KitchenAid also did a very good job. Our whipped cream was fluffy and quick; we had no complaints on either side.

Winner: tie

Extra accessories & versatility

Both stand mixers come with essential attachments, including a flat beater, dough hook, and whisk. KitchenAid, however, has an extensive range of additional attachments available, which can turn your mixer into the best food processor, ice cream maker or pasta roller. This makes it one of the most versatile kitchen appliances on the market. We've even written a guide to the best KitchenAid attachments.

Now, while you can remove the front panel from the Cuisinart to attach some add-ons, there are far fewer add-ons available with this mixer than the KitchenAid. There are five in total that you can buy for the Cuisinart Precision, but over 14 available for the Kitchen Artisan.

Winner: KitchenAid

Longevity & reliability

KitchenAid stand mixers are known for their durability and longevity. They come with a one-year warranty, but many users report their mixers lasting for decades with proper care.

Cuisinart offers a three-year warranty, which is an obvious advantage. However, some customer reviews have reported issues with the motor over time, suggesting that while it's powerful, it may not have the same long-term reliability as a KitchenAid stand mixer.

Winner: tie – KitchenAid is proven to last for years, but Cuisinart’s longer warranty provides peace of mind.

Which is the best value for money?

The KitchenAid Artisan usually retails for $449.99, whereas the Cuisinart Precision costs $249.95. If budget is a big part of your evaluation, the Cuisinart is a better value pick. It's priced lower than the KitchenAid Artisan while offering a more powerful motor and larger bowl. If you're looking for performance at a lower price point, it’s an excellent alternative.

However, KitchenAid can justify its higher price with superior build quality, a vast range of accessories, and timeless design. If you're willing to invest in a long-lasting, visually appealing mixer that you can hand down to your children, it could be worth the extra cost.

Winner: Cuisinart

FAQs

Are KitchenAid and Cuisinart attachments interchangeable?

No, you can't use the attachments for KitchenAid and Cuisinart mixers interchangeably. Or at least, that's what the official guidance will tell you. Technically, the whisk, hook and flat beater from the Cuisinart Precision and the KitchenAid Artisan will fit into place on the opposing mixer, but there's no saying if they'll work as well on a different mixer, and it could even damage your machine if you use attachments that aren't designed to fit onto the specific head of your mixer.

Where is KitchenAid made?

KitchenAid is a US-based company, and while not all its products are made here, its stand mixers are made in the USA.

By contrast, Cuisinart is a French company who mostly manufacture in China.

Does KitchenAid go on sale?

It's not every day that you'll find a KitchenAid mixer on sale but you can usually find a good deal around Black Friday on retailers such as Amazon or Macy's. The Cuisinart Precision is already more affordable, and we have noticed that it will also go on sale more often throughout the year.

Our verdict: which stand mixer should you buy?

Both mixers are really excellent, so the verdict depends on your specific needs.

Buy the KitchenAid Artisan if you prioritize style, reliability, and versatility. It's the best choice for everyday bakers who want a mixer that looks as good as it performs. There are endless personalization options (even custom bowls, like this painted ceramic beauty you can buy at Williams Sonoma) and accessories that add versatility and longevity for keen cooks.

Buy the Cuisinart Precision if you value affordability and high-power performance. The Cuisinart is cheaper than the KitchenAid Artisan by about 50%, and while we found that making cake was slightly trickier, it did perform better with bread. For the money, it's the better value choice.

If you want to know my personal opinion, I have a beautiful walnut wood KitchenAid Artisan in my kitchen (pictured above), which I use to bake cakes and cookies on the weekend. It may have been expensive, but I've never looked back.

Not everybody needs (or wants) a stand mixer. If you love to bake, but you're working with a smaller kitchen or a tighter budget, you might be better off with one of the best hand mixers, instead.

There are premium mixers with adjustable speeds and powerful motors, as well as simpler models that master the basics. Hand mixers come in neutral tones to blend into any background and brighter colors to pop against white walls. In fact, there are so many types of hand mixer that it's easy to feel spoiled for choice. 

That's where I come in. As a product reviewer, I'm part of an expert testing team here at H&G. Together, we've tested some of the best kitchen appliances money can buy, from the best stand mixers to hand mixers. I appreciate the flexibility of a cordless design for quick and easy mixing. I've narrowed it down to the eight best hand mixers to suit every style of kitchen and size of budget. 

I've scored each hand mixer on the basis of quality of mixing, quality of construction, ease of cleaning, durability, and the all-important price.  

Quick list

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Best hand mixers 2026 as tested by our team

Best hand mixer overall

The KitchenAid Cordless Hand mixer is our top choice thanks to the fact it combines aesthetics and functionality perfectly. It has the polished retro look that the brand is famous for, the convenience of being cordless, and the performance that you need to get your smaller baking tasks done efficiently. 'The cordless element makes things even more aesthetically pleasing,' says our tester Molly. 'But don't fall into the trap if you know you're horrendous at charging things, as this mixer needs more attention than usual.' 

This is the best quality mixer of all our tests. It has two sturdy beaters which sit somewhere between traditional balloon whisk and beater shapes, meaning they're good substitutes for both. That saves on storage space and means it aced cookie dough and cake batter, despite the lack of added attachments. 

With seven speeds to choose from, you can fold as well as a whisk, so whether you want to keep your mix dense or fill it with as much air as possible, there is a speed setting for you. We're fans of the blue velvet color, but there are seven to choose from. As you'll know if you've read our KitchenAid Artisan review, you can get it in Empire Red or stay classic with a matte black or clean white. 

Our full KitchenAid Cordless Hand Mixer review has more information.  

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Best hand mixer for style

With just one look, we think you'll find it easy to agree that this Smeg hand mixer is the essential choice for those looking to spruce up their kitchen with their purchase. Available in a series of glorious bright and pastel colors, this mixer marries together style and speed, with nine options for various baking tasks. 

'In terms of performance, I was doubly impressed with how powerful and user-friendly this mixer was. It takes mere minutes to do what you need it to when it comes to batter,' says our tester Molly. 'The price tag of this mixer might put some customers off, but if you love the aesthetics on offer here, then you'll be glad to hear the performance matches up.'

It has a full range of attachments, with two dough hooks, beaters, and whisks, and each of these performed excellently in our tests. Another standout feature of excellence with this mixer is the seamless digital control panel, which also features a very handy timer. The finishing touches are all there with this mixer, from the included embroidered dust case to the iconic Smeg lettering on the exterior, and there's no doubt that this is the prettiest mixer you could opt for.

As we found in our Smeg 1950s Stand Mixer review, the nostalgic design here is a crucial feature. Looks aside, we loved the user-friendly display, easy controls, nine speeds to use, and non-slip feet to help the mixer stay in place on our countertop.

Our full Smeg Retro 50s Hand Mixer has more information.  

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Best quality hand mixer

This Dualit mixer is a standout choice thanks to its practical design, genuinely useful features, and the fact it performed adeptly in our tests. Perfect for occasions where you don't need the capacity or power of a stand mixer, this pick will let you get the job done without prior fuss. 'This Dualit mixer is high-quality, with a focus on pragmatism and straightforwardness,' reports our tester Molly.

The main reason this Dualit mixer is such a success is its focus on practicality. There is a year-long guarantee available if you purchase it straight from Dualit, and the parts of this mixer are replaceable, meaning you can carry it with you for many years of your life. This emphasis on quality that lasts is excellent in terms of value and sustainability. 

The feature that we loved the most during testing was the retractable cord, which makes storage as easy as it should be. This mixer also has a full range of attachments and straightforward controls.

Our full Dualit Hand Mixer review has more information.  

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Best hand mixer for performance

The MultiMix is very powerful, with a 350-watt motor that matches some of the most popular food mixers on the market. This was very much so reflected in our tests, with this mixer breezing through all of our mixtures, regardless of the density. It also has a design that promotes easy cleaning, with a sealed body that won't let any mixture seep inside. 'I loved this hand mixer performance-wise as much as the KitchenAid; the only reason it's further down the list is the KitchenAid's looks are so much more alluring,' says Molly, our on-staff tester. 'That said, this is much more affordable.'

There are two dough hooks included with this mixer too, which are excellent for mixing pastries or bread doughs. The controls are also cutting edge, using a dial turn system that you can operate with one hand, whilst you use the other to steady your mixture. Whilst it might not be the most aesthetically pleasing mixer in the world, it contends with the best when it comes to a stellar mixing performance.

Our full Braun MultiMix 5 review has more information. 

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Most versatile hand mixer

If you want the best corded hand mixer and have a larger budget, the KitchenAid KHM926CU 9-Speed Hand Mixer is our top pick. With a cord to help pack in that extra power, and with a stunning design, we think this mixer is very much worth the splurge. Our tester Molly was very clear that this model is just as good as our top pick, also a KitchenAid: 'You get more for your money with the additional attachments, and the controls are a little smoother to use.' Why is it further down the list? We simply find cordless hand mixers more practical to use

One of our favorite features is, of course, the nine speed settings. These use a slow start (to prevent spills and messes) and range from speed one, which is great for folding, to speed nine, which is perfect for meringues. 

Speed is adjusted using the buttons at the top of the mixer, and is clearly displayed on an LED screen. There's also a beater ejector button that keeps fingers from getting messy when you're done and a lockable swivel cord that keeps it from getting in the way when cooking. 

Our full KitchenAid 9-Speed Hand Mixer review has more information.

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Best cordless hand mixer

We like the Cuisinart RHM-100 EvolutionX 5-Speed Cordless Hand Mixer with its five speeds, stand-up display, and impressive runtime. 

There are so many reasons to go cordless when hunting for a new hand mixer. It gives you the option of making Swiss meringue without worrying about finding a place nearby to plug in, and if you have a kitchen island it can sit on the counters without all the clutter of a cord. 

'Though it performed well in all of our tests, it didn't quite feel like it had the push behind it that some of the contending mixers did,' says staff tester Molly. 'However, with an RRP of $79.95, it will remain in my favorite kitchen tools line-up for a long time yet.' 

We noted that you cannot use this hand mixer while it's charging, so be sure to charge it ahead of time if you plan on using it. 

Our full Cuisinart EvolutionX Cordless Hand Mixer review has more information.

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How we test

At Homes & Gardens, we know that how we test products is crucial to whether you can trust our evaluations and our rankings. That's why Molly extensively tested the hand mixers within this round-up side by side in order to truly evaluate which model was the top performer, as you can see from our photos. 

Molly tested each of the hand mixers in this guide simultaneously at the Future testing facility in Reading, England, in order to gauge which models are worth spending your money on. There were various elements to the testing process including three different tasks to evaluate the power of each mixer, and additional time is given to testing out various additional attachments that came with each mixer. A series of tests were devised in order to establish their abilities, from whipping up cream to mixing cake batter. The tests were made as quantifiable as possible, with recordings of time taken to adequately mix as well as decibel readings. In each of the reviews linked here, you'll see the testing process behind the stars awarded to these mixers. 

Below you'll find more information on Molly, who tested these mixers, and why she has the expertise to tell you which model to buy.

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How to choose the best hand mixer

Speeds
Hand mixers offer anywhere from 5 to 9 preset speeds. Lower speeds are ideal for integrating ingredients without overworking a batter, and a higher speed can beat egg whites or heavy cream to stiff peaks. 

Every hand mixer in our guide has a speed setting for any task you may wish to use it for, but it's no surprise that the more premium options offer more speeds. These will give you more flexibility in the kitchen and offer a wider range of functions for keen home chefs. 

Storage
Many of the best hand mixers come with cases that contain the machine itself as well as all of its attachments in one easy and convenient space. This makes storage simple and prevents clutter when not in use. 

Weight
None of the best hand mixers are very heavy, but if you plan on using it for prolonged periods of time it's worth making sure it won't become cumbersome. 

Attachments
Every hand mixer will come with beaters as standard, but some offer extras including dough hooks, balloon whisks, and even spatulas for increased functionality. 

Considering buying a stand mixer instead? We compared the hand mixer vs stand mixer to see which made a better batch of brownies. 

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FAQs

Can a hand mixer replace a stand mixer?

To understand whether one of the best hand mixers can replace one of the best stand mixers in your kitchen, you need to know what each is capable of and which is most suited to your cooking needs. 

Hand mixers – light and small, as we have seen – can be used to whip, beat and mix small batches and, if cordless, can be really practical for the occasional baker or anyone with little room for a traditional stand mixer. 

Stand mixers are bigger, so can take on bigger batches and, because they have more speed and power and are hands-free, are much more suited to regular bakers who cook for a crowd or freezing ahead. Most stand mixers have more attachments than most hand mixers, so always interrogate what you are getting for your money when comparing. 

The final difference? Price: hand mixers are much cheaper, generally, than stand mixers. So, can you replace one with the other? You can buy a hand mixer instead of a stand mixer if you don't cook too much, too often. 

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Do you really need a stand mixer? The short answer is yes. This useful kitchen appliance is guaranteed to transform the way you bake. Here is why a stand mixer is the kitchen gadget you didn't know you needed.

Baking can be hard work, particularly when you have to mix all of the ingredients together by hand. If you’re planning to make a lot of cakes, cookies, and other tasty treats at home, then purchasing the best stand mixer that you can afford could be a worthwhile investment, as it will certainly save your mixing arm from getting tired.

Here are some of the many other reasons why we think a stand mixer is essential. 

Do you really need a stand mixer?

I love baking, and my family loves to reap the rewards of my efforts, but as anyone who also fancies themselves as a bit of a domestic goddess can attest, baking takes up a lot of time – and effort. So believe me in saying that when I took advantage of a Black Friday KitchenAid mixer deal, my life (and baking) changed for the better. 

My stand mixer opened up a whole world of baking. Suddenly, recipes that I had always felt were only attainable to a trained baker or patisserie chef were now within easy reach. 

Best of all, baking started to take a lot less time, and I found myself wanting to do it more often, much to my family's joy. In fact, I saved energy (and money) by using my stand mixer, too. So whether you bake occasionally or often, for a few or for a crowd, a stand mixer will make light work of cakes, biscuits, and bread. 

If you're worried about space and let's face it, most of us do, it is worth taking note of the many different options out there because I can almost guarantee that you will find one to suit you. Top-of-the-range stand mixers with an all-metal construction are heavy, so they’re less likely to creep across the kitchen countertop when mixing, but make sure you’ve got kitchen cabinet space for a hefty model, ideally at a level where you won’t have to bend or strain to lift it out. 

Anything tucked away in a cupboard is only likely to make it out onto the countertop on high days and holidays: if you want an everyday workhorse, having it set up and ready to go right in front of you makes it easier to use. If you have space, consider a ‘gadget garage’ – somewhere to store your small appliances, plugged in and ready to go, behind a roller shutter or cupboard doors.

What is the purpose of a stand mixer?

The purpose of a stand mixer is to take the effort out of baking, making it more accessible to absolutely everyone. 

For bakers, a sturdy stand mixer will take the arm ache out of whisking and kneading. Most designs come with a whisk, beater, and dough hook, and some offer several extras, such as slicing, shredding, mincing, ice-cream making, and liquidizing tools. 

Can a stand mixer knead bread dough?

A stand mixer may look the part, but they're also great for taking the muscle work out of even the toughest recipes, and that includes kneading dough. In fact, some of the best stand mixers feature in many chef's kitchens for this very reason. 

Most models come with three tools: a balloon whisk for whipping cream, eggs, and light mixtures; a dough hook for kneading bread; and a beater for batters, biscuit dough, and general mixing. This could also be a flexi or scraper beater, which helps scrape down the bowl as it mixes. Another common accessory is a splashguard, which prevents contents from escaping during vigorous mixing.

Most brands offer extra attachments to buy. Options include rollers for pasta and ravioli makers, mincers or grinders for meat, slicers, pre-freeze ice cream bowls, mills, spiralizer, and juicers

Why are stand mixers so expensive?

If you are wondering why stand mixers are so expensive, you are not alone. The best models, like Kitchenaid, Wolf, and Cuisinart are expensive for a good reason; they are tried-and-trusted brands that rarely, if ever, fail to deliver on their promise to provide you with a top-quality stand mixer. We should know, we've tried them all on H&G.

However, if a stand mixer is too costly for what you need, then do consider a cheaper alternative, like a hand mixer instead. And if you're hesitating between a hand mixer vs a stand mixer, think about what you might use it for and how much baking you are likely to do, as this will inevitably affect your decision. By contrast, the best hand mixers can cost as little as $40, and they take up a fraction of the storage space.

Where to buy a stand mixer?

Whether you're hoping to level up your home baking for seasonal entertaining, bake sales, self-indulgence, or are an amateur pastry chef in the making, a stand mixer will make home baking hassle-free, which is why we think, yes, you do really need a stand mixer in your kitchen arsenal. 

However, with so many options, where to begin? Consider how you like to cook and the tasks you regularly perform to narrow down your selection. Department stores, electrical specialists, and cookery shops offer an opportunity to handle – and sometimes try out – different machines, and compare their robustness and features.

More details on our favorite models are below:

Summer-long heatwaves aside, we all know that it's sensible to choose water-saving bathroom fittings when we're remodelling. 

Whether or not you're committed to sustainable bathroom ideas as part of a range of eco home improvements, we can guarantee that you will be looking for ways to cut energy bills in the current climate. 

Shopping sustainably and choosing energy-efficient appliances, particularly those that save water, makes sense all round, then. Here, we bring you a basic but expert guide to choosing water-saving fittings for your bathroom so you know what to look for when you shop.

How to shop water-saving bathroom fittings

Obviously there are ways to cut water usage in a bathroom, from simply fixing leaky faucets to cutting your shower time, but new bathroom technologies are designed to help you save water, too. Here's what to look for.

1. Cut back on water usage overall

Water is a precious resource – climate change is making supply unpredictable, with increased frequency of drought across the US and Europe. 

Yvonne Orgill, managing director at the Unified Water Label, says: ‘Heating hot water accounts for 25 per cent of home energy usage, so it makes sense to use water efficiently to help reduce energy bills.’ 

As well as using water carefully to minimize wastage, look for labelling that provides information about how much water and energy products consume, with the most efficient taps and showers delivering water at no more than 6ltr/min. 

2. Shop for water-saving basin mixers

‘Typically, across the market you would expect to see a standard basin tap offering a flow of 7ltr/min to 9ltr/min,’ says Paul Bailey, Grohe leader product management. 

To reduce water consumption, many taps (and showers) are now fitted with flow regulators to reduce their flow. 

There are other innovations: the Grohe Plus tap with LED display offers a spray of 5.7ltr/min and an even greener water-saving flow of 4ltr/min, achieved by just a wave of the hand over the tap’s sensor. 

Some manufacturers have developed ‘cold start’ technology for basin mixers: only cold water is delivered when the tap is operated from the traditional starting position, so that the boiler isn’t fired up unnecessarily every time the tap is turned on. 

‘Conventional mixers tend to provide a mix of hot and cold when started, even if the user only wants cold water – for example, when cleaning teeth,’ says Mark Winfield, Roca senior product manager. 

3. Cut shower water usage

According to the Unified Water Label, if everybody took one minute off their shower time, we could save 7 per cent of home water use – and save energy too. 

In addition, manufacturers have been busy developing water-saving technologies, as Keith Dyson, technical sales manager, Hansgrohe, explains. ‘Our EcoSmart products use air technology to volumize each droplet of water, reducing water consumption by up to 60 per cent without compromising on the shower experience.’

Digital showers can also offer water-saving benefits, as Suzannah Adey, digital product manager, Mira Showers, explains. ‘Through accurate water measurement tracking via the Activate shower app, you can easily see how much water you’re using.’ 

4. Reduce how much you flush

‘The average “old” flush is 9 litres, so choosing a more efficient toilet can make a substantial water saving,’ explains Samantha Millican, product manager, Geberit. 

‘I suggest looking into innovations such as cisterns with dual flush technology,’ she says. 

5. Reduce your bath water usage

‘A bath normally takes about 80 litres of water,’ says Yvonne Orgill. 

Many manufacturers offer eco tubs in smaller sizes with lower overflows, but – for the quickest win – Yvonne recommends simply putting the drain stopper in when you start to run the bath, rather than allowing water to pour down the drain until it reaches the required temperature. 

What are water-saving faucets?

Water-saving faucets have a deceptive low-flow; they mix air into the water so that the flow feels as full as usual though the volume of water used is hugely reduced. You can find similar fittings for showers, too.

How do water-saving showers work?

Water-saving showers work in the same way as water-saving faucets, reducing the flow of the water and aerating it so that, though it's low-flow, it feels full-flow. 

Knowing exactly how to fix a leaky faucet is a DIY must. According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA), the average household’s leaks can account for nearly 10,000 gallons of water wasted every year and ten per cent of homes have leaks that waste 90 gallons or more per day. 

‘Common types of leaks found in the home are worn toilet flappers, dripping faucets and other leaking valves. These types of leaks are often easy to fix, requiring only a few tools and hardware that can pay for themselves in water savings,' they say. 'Fixing easily corrected household water leaks can save homeowners about 10 per cent on their water bills.’ 

Knowing how to fix a leaky faucet is up there with knowing how to replace a faucet washer and how to unclog a toilet; it is vital to learn these tried-and-tested techniques – just in case. 

‘Yours may start to leak, either from the nozzle or at the base of the fixture, so it’s important to know how to fix a leaky faucet. As soon as you notice that a faucet is dripping, try to make the repair immediately. Stopping the dripping as soon as you can saves money and resources,' say the experts at the USEPA. 'After all, the Drip Calculator from the US Geological Survey reminds us that one drip every minute wastes 34 gallons per year.’

How to fix a leaky faucet

Whether it’s a bath or basin faucet in the bathroom or a kitchen sink faucet, here’s how to fix it with expert advice from John Lawless at Big Bathroom Shop. 

1. Identify the problem

You can usually identify if your dripping faucet uses rubber washers or ceramic discs by simply turning the faucet handle. If the faucet uses ceramic discs, then the handle will only rotate a quarter or half a turn. If the handle rotates more than this, your faucet uses a rubber washer. The differential is important to identify in any bid to repair a dripping faucet. 

In leaking kitchen faucets, worn O-rings are usually the main cause, but O-rings can also be found on the body of the valve in other taps too. Sometimes you may find that your faucets still leak even when you’ve replaced the washer, so check to see if the O-rings and seals are worn. 

In older faucets, a damaged washer is usually the culprit. Take a look inside the faucet and if the washer is slightly damaged on one side you can reinsert it the other way up. That will only stop the drip temporarily, so you’ll need to replace it with a new one as soon as possible. 

2. Turn off the water supply

Before starting to fix a leaky faucet, it’s essential to switch off the water supply to that faucet, so locate your stop tap so that you can turn off the hot and cold water supply to the house.

3. Remove the red and blue indicator

Next, using your flat head screwdriver, remove the red and blue indicator from the faucet.

4. Loosen the grub screw

Now you will have access to a small 'grub screw' and you will need your 2mm Allen Key. Insert the Allen Key and loosen the screw until the tap handle can be removed.

5. Unscrew the collar

Unscrew the chrome collar on the faucet to reveal a large nut.

6. Loosen the nut

Using your plumbing grips, loosen the nut then unscrew and remove by hand.

7. Remove the cartridge from the faucet

Now that you have removed the handle of the faucet, along with the outer casing, you are ready to replace the ceramic cartridge. To do this you can simply pull the cartridge out of the faucet and replace it with the new one.

8. Give the faucet a thorough clean

First though, be sure to carefully clean out the inside of the faucet, paying special attention to the screw thread as this is where grit and grime gather and cause problems.

9.  Fit the new cartridge

Now you are ready to replace the cartridge, being careful to ensure that the lugs match up with the corresponding holes inside the faucet.

10. Turn on the water supply

Once you have replaced the cartridge and screwed everything back in place, you can turn on your water supply.

What makes a faucet leak?

The most common sources of a leaking faucet include a worn-out washer or gasket, a loose O ring or corrosion in the valve seat. When turning your faucets on and off, take care not to over-tighten them, as this can cause the rubber washers to wear out quickly. Faucets with a rubber washer and compression valve tend to drip a couple of times once you’ve switched them off, but it’s not necessary to keep on tightening them. Just allow the residual water to drip out without tightening the tap more.

Can I fix a leaky faucet myself?

Most people call a plumber out but fixing a leaky faucet is a simple DIY job that requires some general hand tools and a faucet washer kit.

Come winter, it's also worth knowing how to protect an outside faucet from freezing. If you don't – the most common case scenarios are a burst pipe, a broken valve, a broken joint – or all three, if there was enough water left in the tap. This is when to drip faucets, purposefully.