The KitchenAid stand mixer has several problems. Yet, they outsell the competition in almost every category. I decided to look at some of the pros and cons of this popular kitchen appliance.
The Cons:
One, they are huge. The average stand mixer takes up 2 square feet or more of your kitchen space. In today's modern houses that may not be a problem. But, if you have a galley kitchen it's a real challenge.
Two, they weigh a lot. The average weight is 32 pounds. That makes them awkward and difficult to move easily. It is definitely not a one handed operation.
Three, the mixing bowl is too big. The smallest KitchenAid mixing bowl is four and one half quarts. If you are just a couple and you aren't having guests over the ideal size would be about 2 to 3 quarts. Sure, you can put a smaller batch in the bigger bowl. But, why buy a machine that is twice as big as you need for day to day cooking?
Four, they cost a lot. A top of the line model can cost 9 brand new. 0 is a lot of dinero to spend on a kitchen appliance that sits on your countertop. A premium toaster is only and you use it more often.
The Pros:
So why are they the most popular mixer on the market? There are several answers to that question:
One, they last and last. It's not unusual for a KitchenAid stand mixer to be in the same kitchen for 10, 20 or even 30 years. Family fights can start over who inherits the KitchenAid.
Two, the mixing bowl is really big. According to the latest press release from KitchenAid you can buy a model with a mixing bowl that holds up to 7 quarts. If you are cooking for a large group you can't beat being able to do all the mixing in one batch.
Three, the size and the weight of this stand mixer keep it stable on the counter top. You don't have to worry about it hopping and vibrating on you. It holds still while it mixes the toughest batches of bread dough.
Four, they are a great value for the money. Sure, they cost 0 for the latest version. But, that model comes with a 1.3 HP motor, is extremely quiet, and features a 7 quart mixer bowl. It also includes a two year warranty. Another way to understand the value of these mixers is to average the cost over the life of the appliance. If you buy a KitchenAid stand mixer for 0 and it lasts you 10 years it will only cost you .16 per month. That's value.
In conclusion, what I discovered is that some of the problems with the KitchenAid stand mixer are actually designed to be a positive thing. The size and weight, while challenging when moving one, is a distinct advantage when you are mixing tough large batches of dough. The size of the mixing bowl is a distinct advantage when you want to make more than one loaf of bread or 2 dozen cookies. And smaller batches can be mixed in the larger bowl. The final consideration is value vs cost. If you are a person who truly prizes value and quality a KitchenAid mixer delivers lasting value and quality. If the cost is a bit beyond your budget then buy a refurbished stand mixer. You can save up to 60% off the pro line models (MSRP 9). You save over 0 off the Manufacturers Suggested Retail Price (MSRP). Rebuilt stand mixers are refurbished to be "like new". You get all the same quality at a budget price.
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