For Most Home Bakers, This KitchenAid Stand Mixer Is the Perfect Match

As someone who’s tested more than her share of stand mixers, I can tell you a lot of them are made with plastic parts. They’re simply not built to last—and some even shudder (literally) under the strain of a simple bread dough. 

Not KitchenAid stand mixers, though. Under their hoods, they have actual metal gears. They’re countertop machines that are meant to be used (and repaired, if needed) for many, many years. It’s no surprise then that when we tested 12 stand mixers, half of our favorites were from KitchenAid. The KitchenAid Artisan Series 5-Quart Stand Mixer snagged the title of "The Best Stand Mixer for Casual Bakers."

Why It Won Our Review

We tested stand mixers by making whipped cream, pound cake, cookie dough, pizza dough, and more. The tilt-head stand mixer breezed through our tests, struggling a bit more with the super-sticky, stiff pizza dough, but still getting the job done. It also couldn’t be easier to use: It has an adjustable speed dial and a head that flips upward to allow you to add ingredients, scrape down the bowl, or remove the paddle or whisk. 

For most home bakers, the Artisan will be the perfect pick. It doesn’t take up too much counter space either and easily fits underneath overhead cabinets. Plus, it comes in lots of colors.

Good to Know

• Weight: 19.4 pounds
• Stated bowl capacity: 5 quarts
• Attachments: Paddle, dough hook, whisk, plus splash/pouring guard
• Warranty: 1-year limited

FAQs

What’s the best stand mixer? 

After testing nearly a dozen stand mixers, we named top picks from KitchenAid and Wolf Gourmet.

Can you clean a stand mixer’s attachments in the dishwasher? 

The KitchenAid’s paddle and dough hook attachments are dishwasher-safe, but the whisk must be hand-washed.