Buying Guide
How to Buy a Stand Mixer
This quick guide helps you choose the right stand mixer by covering the most important buying factors, available types, must-have features, where to buy, common mistakes to avoid, and expert tips to make a confident purchase.
Key factors to consider
Capacity and use case - Choose capacity based on how much you bake: 5 quart for occasional home baking, 6 to 6.5 quart for families and larger batches, 8 quart or larger for heavy use or commercial needs.
- Motor power - Higher wattage and heavy-duty motors handle dense doughs and long runs. Example power levels vary from around 660W in consumer models to higher-spec motors for commercial units.
- Head style - Tilt-head gives easy access for adding ingredients and scraping the bowl. Bowl-lift provides more stability when mixing heavy doughs.
- Build and materials - Metal construction and stainless bowls last longer than plastic parts. Look for a sturdy gearbox and metal attachments.
- Speeds and controls - More speed settings give finer control. 6 speeds work for basic tasks, while 8 to 10 speeds are better for a wider range of recipes.
- Stability and safety - Non-slip feet or suction cups reduce movement and vibration. Safety features like automatic shutoff when tilted are useful.
- Accessories and extras - Standard sets include dough hook, flat beater, and wire whip. Pouring shields and splash guards help keep things clean.
Types and important features
Major types to choose from
- Compact consumer tilt-head mixers - Best for casual bakers and small kitchens.
- Full-size household mixers (5 to 6.5 quart) - Balance capacity and countertop footprint for regular home use.
- Commercial or heavy-duty bowl-lift mixers - Designed for large batches, frequent use, and continuous runs.
- Planetary mixing action - Ensures thorough mixing across the bowl.
- Motor rating and duty cycle - Look for higher wattage and descriptions that support long mixing times for dough and heavy batters.
- Included attachments and optional extras - Confirm which tools come in the box and whether extra attachments are available.
- Certifications - Commercial-grade models may carry NSF or equivalent ratings.
- Speed control protection and locking mechanisms - Prevent accidental starts and keep the head secure during use.
Where to buy and practical buying tips
Online vs retail
- Online - Wider selection and easier price comparison. Check shipping cost, return window, seller ratings, and whether free shipping applies.
- Retail - Good for testing weight, noise, and seeing build quality in person. Ask about returns and in-store support.
- Compare total cost - account for shipping, taxes, and any extra attachments you want.
- Check warranty and support - confirm manufacturer or seller support for parts and repairs.
- Measure your workspace - verify height and footprint so the mixer fits under cabinets and on your counter.
- Buy what you will use - save money by avoiding heavy commercial units if you only bake occasionally, or avoid undersized models if you make bread often.
Common mistakes to avoid and expert recommendations
Common mistakes
- Choosing by color or looks before capacity and power.
- Buying too-small motor for heavy doughs.
- Assuming all attachments are included; check what ships in the box.
- Overlooking stability; light bases can bounce when kneading.
- Match capacity to typical batch size: 5 qt for occasional bakers, 6 to 6.5 qt for regular family use, 8 qt+ for commercial or very large families.
- Prioritize motor and gearbox quality over fancy extras if you bake bread or dense dough.
- Get a model with a pouring shield and good non-slip feet for less mess and safer operation.
- Keep receipts and register the product to simplify warranty service.
Final Thoughts
Pick a mixer that fits your batch size and workload, prioritize motor durability and stability, and verify warranty and return policies before you buy. Measure your space, check included accessories, and choose tilt-head for convenience or bowl-lift for heavy doughs to make an informed purchase quickly.
