Which KitchenAid stand mixer do I want (best features-to-cost ratio)?

[Anonymous]

I don't want the top of the line - can't afford it - but if any of the models have a feature (like tilt or elevated bowl) that really make a difference I would look at something other than a base model. Thanks!

[Anonymous]

It really depends on how you plan to use your mixer. If making big batches, you want a large capacity bowl which probably means a pro. If making breads, you want a powerful motor so will definitely want a pro. I’ve had 2 KAs. One was an old tilt head and one is a pro (bowl lift) from Costco. I upgraded to the pro because I was making a lot of breads. But I found the original tilt head preferable for things like cakes and cookies because it’s easier to add ingredients with the tilt head and I felt it did a better job mixing the ingredients at the bottom of the bowl. So if you just plan to use it occasionally and aren’t making bread, the classic tilt head works well.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:It really depends on how you plan to use your mixer. If making big batches, you want a large capacity bowl which probably means a pro. If making breads, you want a powerful motor so will definitely want a pro. I’ve had 2 KAs. One was an old tilt head and one is a pro (bowl lift) from Costco. I upgraded to the pro because I was making a lot of breads. But I found the original tilt head preferable for things like cakes and cookies because it’s easier to add ingredients with the tilt head and I felt it did a better job mixing the ingredients at the bottom of the bowl. So if you just plan to use it occasionally and aren’t making bread, the classic tilt head works well.

OP here - thank you! I am not a bread-baker so this is super helpful.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:It really depends on how you plan to use your mixer. If making big batches, you want a large capacity bowl which probably means a pro. If making breads, you want a powerful motor so will definitely want a pro. I’ve had 2 KAs. One was an old tilt head and one is a pro (bowl lift) from Costco. I upgraded to the pro because I was making a lot of breads. But I found the original tilt head preferable for things like cakes and cookies because it’s easier to add ingredients with the tilt head and I felt it did a better job mixing the ingredients at the bottom of the bowl. So if you just plan to use it occasionally and aren’t making bread, the classic tilt head works well.

I have both as well and this is exactly what I was going to say. If I were going to buy one, I'd buy the tilt head.

[Anonymous]

I have had a classic tilt head for 20 years and it has served me well. I mostly make cakes and cookies. I do sometimes wish I hade one with a larger capacity, but overall not a big deal.

[Anonymous]

Artisan (tilt-head). I have a bowl lift now and agree it doesn't mix all the way to the bottom of the bowl, plus it just feels fussier to use (which is probably because I used the other style for 20 years ). It's fine for bread and pizza dough but my old Artisan was way better for cookie and cake batter.

[Anonymous]

I have a tilt head that is probably 20 years old now (I bought it from someone used for $35), and I've used it for cookies, cakes, whipped cream, and it's great for pizza dough too. I don't use it for my other bread baking because I make that by hand once a year.

[Anonymous]

Another vote for Artisan tilt head. Or just tilt head. Much more user-friendly.

[Anonymous]

I love the pro (bowl lift) but I do bake a lot of bread

[Anonymous]

Look at the height of your cabinets, or wherever you are storing it too.

[Anonymous]

I have a tilt head and hardly ever use the thing. It's heavy, big, unwieldy to drag out of the pantry. If I had counter space maybe I would feel differently. I use a hand mixer.
I did use bread hooks and it does that really well.

[Anonymous]

I have an Artisan. Works amazing.