KitchenAid Artisan Plus Stand Mixer
The KitchenAid Artisan Plus stand mixer, released in 2023, improves on its predecessor with a powerful 350-watt motor and 5-quart capacity. It features a built-in bowl light and 11 speeds, including a new 1/2 speed and Soft Start setting for easier ingredient incorporation. Despite its strengths, the head may unlock when mixing stiff doughs. The model includes essential attachments such as a flat beater, dough hook, and pouring shield, and is available in 14 colors.
In tests, the Artisan Plus excelled in handling cookie dough and produced fluffy whipped cream. It ranked highly in performance reviews but noted that the finishing bread had good height and texture, with stability concerns when mixing stiff doughs.
Cuisinart Stand Mixer
The Cuisinart stand mixer, offering a 500-watt motor and 5.5-quart capacity, serves as a budget-friendly alternative with 12 speed settings. Its lowest speed is gentle enough to avoid messes, while the highest is effective for airy whipped cream. It also features multiple compatible attachments, including pasta rollers and spiralizers. This lighter 23-pound mixer performed admirably in whipping egg whites and kneading dough, though the head may shift with stiff mixes.
Hamilton Beach Stand Mixer
The Hamilton Beach stand mixer is a cost-effective option with a 300-watt motor and 4-quart capacity. Weighing under 10 pounds, it is easy to lift and features seven speed settings. It stands out for its excellent kneading and whipping capabilities. However, it has been criticized for occasional splattering during use, though it includes a splash guard.
Ooni Halo Pro Spiral Stand Mixer
Ooni’s Halo Pro Spiral mixer offers a robust 650-watt motor with a 7-quart capacity and up to 58 speeds. Its unique design features rotating bowls along with a rotating dough hook, making it exceptionally suitable for bread and pizza preparations. The model received praise for its effective kneading and the built-in timer function.
Ankarsrum Stand Mixer
The Ankarsrum stand mixer shines with its 7.4-quart capacity and 600 watts of power. It stands out due to its design, which moves the bowl instead of the head, allowing easy ingredient additions. The mixer's variety of attachments makes it versatile for serious bakers. It received high marks for combining doughs and batter, although it requires careful setup and has some non-dishwasher-safe components.
GE Smart Mixer
This advanced mixer combines a 7-quart capacity with smart features like a built-in scale and voice command operation. It connects to a mobile app, allowing remote control of speeds and timers. While effective in baking tasks, it is noted to be heavy and less precise in scale measurements compared to traditional kitchen scales.
Testing Methods
Good Housekeeping’s testing experts evaluate stand mixers based on ease of use and classic baking tasks including whipping egg whites, kneading bread dough, and mixing cake batter. They also assess the mixers for overall performance by taste-testing baked goods to ensure quality results.
