STAND MIXER GUIDE: TYPES & SIZES
Stand mixers unlock new creative possibilities in the kitchen—helping to elevate the recipes you make every day. Learn about all types of stand mixers and the range of options on the market today. Then, explore stand mixers from KitchenAid brand to find out if it’s the right type of stand mixer for you.
What is a stand mixer?
A stand mixer is a heavy-duty electric mixer built into a stationary stand with a bowl. Most have multiple speeds, can handle dense ingredients and offer hands-free operation. Stand mixers can usually mix, whip and knead with various accessories but also shred meat, mash potatoes, churn out fresh guacamole and more.
Some stand mixers are compatible with attachments that expand the mixer’s capabilities. KitchenAid® stand mixers feature over 10 different attachments that let you roll and cut pasta noodles, grind meat, spiralize vegetables, make ice cream and much more. With attachments, a stand mixer can become one of the most versatile appliances you’ll ever use in your kitchen.
Types of stand mixers
When buying a stand mixer, no matter the brand, you’ll typically need to decide between two basic types: tilt-head and bowl-lift. The main difference between tilt-head and bowl lift designs is the way bowls are attached and accessed, along with the types of mixtures they handle best:
tilt-head
Bowls usually attach to the base of the mixer. The head tilts back to provide easy access to the bowl and beater, which makes adding ingredients or swapping out accessories a snap. Most tilt-head models can easily handle everyday mixtures, and offer small to mid-range capacities. This style mixer tends to have a lower profile for countertop storage and can usually tuck nicely under most kitchen cabinets.
bowl-lift
Bowls usually attach to two sturdy arms that provide stability and support for heavy mixtures. A lever smoothly lifts the bowl into position under the beaters, providing extra stability when mixing large batches. Most bowl-lift models are equipped to handle dense mixtures and offer larger capacities. The solid build also keeps this mixer firmly on your countertop for heavy-duty ingredients and batches.
Learn more about KitchenAid® mixer types and the difference between our tilt-head and bowl-lift stand mixers.
Other types of stand mixers on the market include models with a motor below the bowl featuring in-bowl beaters, hand mixer combos that attach to a stationary stand, and models that turn the bowl instead of the beaters to mix.
HOW TO CHOOSE A MIXER
Which stand mixer is best depends on what’s most important to you. Consider these factors and more to make sure you choose the right stand mixer.
Size & Capacity
Explore everything from compact, apartment-friendly mixers to bigger models that easily handle large, dense mixtures.
Color, Finish and Bowls
If the perfect mixer means matching your décor, discover the variety of colors, finishes and bowl options available.
Attachments & Accessories
Make more with your mixer and discover the endless possibilities with attachments and accessories.
If you’re looking for a KitchenAid brand stand mixer, learn about the top 5 things to consider when buying a stand mixer.
what are the stand mixer sizes?
Stand mixers come in a wide variety of sizes including different dimensions, weights and bowl capacities. Factors such as overall design, the bowl and beater setup or the type of stand mixer may affect the bowl capacity vs the stand mixer body size. In general, the larger the stand mixer body, the larger the mixer bowl size and capacity. While exact dimensions and capacities vary by brand, you can think of stand mixer sizes as small, medium and large.
STAND MIXER CAPACITIES
Smaller-sized stand mixers will usually offer somewhere between 2 and 3.5 qts of capacity, while larger stand mixers can offer around 5–8 qts. In the middle, you’ll find medium-sized stand mixers with around 4–5 qts of capacity—a great size for everyday recipes and meals.
STAND MIXER DIMENSIONS AND WEIGHTS
Stand mixer dimensions and weights will depend on their design and construction and can vary widely. In general, a stand mixer can weigh anywhere from around 10–35 lbs so think about how and where you’ll store it when choosing a stand mixer size.
KITCHENAID® STAND MIXER SIZES
KitchenAid offers a full lineup of small, medium and large stand mixers built to elevate everything from weeknight dinners to full-on feasts. Each mixer offers the power to deliver optimal performance for the size of the stand mixer. When deciding what KitchenAid® mixer to buy, consider these factors to narrow down which size is best for you:
Get help choosing the right size KitchenAid® stand mixer:
STAND MIXER COLORS AND DESIGN OPTIONS
Stand mixers are often displayed on the countertop, making their appearance an important factor. The look of stand mixers can vary widely from brand to brand as can the number of color options and customizable features. Get help deciding which options will work best for your style.
KITCHENAID® MIXER OPTIONS
KitchenAid offers over 40 stand mixer colors and a variety of bowl options to choose from. In addition, you can add a free engraving to select models when you shop with the KitchenAid Customization Tool. Here are some KitchenAid® stand mixers with the most color or bowl options available:
Artisan® Series 5 Quart Tilt-Head Stand Mixer
This model is available in over 40 colors and compatible with the largest variety of bowls in various colors, patterns and finishes—making it the most customizable option.
ProfeSsional 600™ Series 6 Quart Bowl-Lift Stand Mixer
The KitchenAid® bowl-lift model features a taller profile, wider base and sturdy arms. This model comes in 15 colors so you’re sure to find one that matches your style.
KitchenAid® Custom Metallic® Series 5 Quart Tilt-Head Stand Mixer
Clad in real metal, this tilt-head model represents power and beauty on the counter. Choose from 3 ultra sleek metal finishes for a unique and premium look.
STAND MIXER ATTACHMENTS AND ACCESSORIES
Several brands now offer attachments that help expand the mixer’s versatility beyond the bowl. You’ll find everything from blenders and food processors to juicers and food grinders. Many brands also offer additional beaters such as mixing accessories with a silicone edge that helps scrape the bowl.
WHICH STAND MIXER ATTACHMENTS DO I NEED?
When choosing attachments, think about the kinds of recipes you want to create and how a stand mixer can make it possible. All KitchenAid® stand mixers are compatible with all power hub attachments.1 Here is the lineup of KitchenAid brand attachments:
Learn which attachments work with which KitchenAid® stand mixers:
KITCHENAID® MIXER DIFFERENCES
Compare KitchenAid® stand mixer details with our Stand Mixer Comparison Guide. Understand the difference between capacities and sizes in side-by-side match-ups to find your exact model match.
Did you know?
The iconic shape of the KitchenAid® stand mixer is a registered trademark in the United States and elsewhere around the world.
STAND MIXER FAQ
1. Ice cream bowl attachment not compatible with mini stand mixer.
