Best Stand Mixers According to Consumer Reports
Best Stand Mixers According to Consumer Reports: Top Picks for Your Kitchen in 2025
What's In This Article
- Top-Rated Stand Mixers of 2025
- Quick Answer: Best Overall Stand Mixer
- How Consumer Reports Tests Stand Mixers
- Key Features to Look for in a Quality Stand Mixer
- Budget-Friendly Options That Perform Well
- Best Stand Mixers for Different Needs
- Tips for Maintaining Your Stand Mixer
- Frequently Asked Questions
Are you ready to elevate your baking game with a powerful, reliable stand mixer? As kitchen appliance experts at Bargain Boxed, we know that finding the perfect stand mixer can be overwhelming with so many options available. That's why we've analyzed the latest Consumer Reports findings to bring you this comprehensive guide to the best stand mixers on the market today.
Whether you're a passionate home baker or a professional chef, investing in a quality stand mixer can transform your cooking experience. Let's dive into which models are worth your hard-earned money, according to rigorous testing and real user experiences.
Quick Answer: The Best Stand Mixer According to Consumer Reports
Based on comprehensive Consumer Reports testing, the KitchenAid Artisan Series 5-Quart Tilt-Head Stand Mixer ranks as the top overall performer, scoring exceptionally well in mixing performance, durability, ease of use, and versatility. With its robust motor, 10-speed settings, and wide range of compatible attachments, this iconic mixer continues to dominate the market in 2025.
At Bargain Boxed, we've seen this model consistently outperform competitors across all key metrics that matter to home bakers.
How Consumer Reports Tests Stand Mixers
Understanding the testing methodology helps explain why certain mixers earn top rankings. Consumer Reports evaluates stand mixers using a thorough process that examines:
- Mixing Performance - How well the mixer handles various tasks like cookie dough, bread dough, whipping cream, and egg whites
- Speed and Power - Motor strength and ability to maintain consistent speed under load
- Noise Levels - Decibel measurements during operation
- Ease of Use - Controls, bowl installation, and overall user experience
- Versatility - Compatibility with attachments and range of functions
- Durability - Stress testing and build quality assessment
This comprehensive evaluation ensures that top-rated mixers truly deserve their rankings, giving you confidence in your purchase decision.
Top-Rated Stand Mixers of 2025
1. KitchenAid Artisan Series 5-Quart Stand Mixer
The KitchenAid Artisan remains the gold standard in stand mixers, earning the highest overall score in Consumer Reports testing. This 5-quart mixer provides ample capacity for most home baking needs while featuring:
- 325-watt motor that handles tough doughs with ease
- 10 speed settings for precision control
- Tilt-head design for easy access to the bowl
- Includes coated flat beater, dough hook, and wire whip
- Available in over 40 color options to match any kitchen aesthetic
What sets this mixer apart is its exceptional planetary mixing action, reaching 59 touchpoints per rotation for thorough ingredient incorporation. The Artisan scored particularly high for kneading bread dough and whipping cream to perfect consistency.
2. Breville Bakery Chef Stand Mixer
Coming in a close second, the Breville Bakery Chef impressed Consumer Reports testers with its:
- Powerful 550-watt motor
- Innovative LED display with timer functionality
- 12 speed settings with load sensing technology
- 5-quart illuminated mixing bowl
- Scraper beater attachment that eliminates manual bowl scraping
The Breville excelled particularly in the bread dough tests, where its powerful motor maintained consistent speed even with dense, heavy doughs. Its built-in timer and automatic shut-off feature make it perfect for multitasking in the kitchen.
3. Cuisinart Precision Master Stand Mixer
Earning high marks as a mid-range option, the Cuisinart Precision Master offers excellent value with:
- 500-watt motor
- 5.5-quart capacity stainless steel bowl
- 12 speed settings with slow-start function
- Chef's whisk, dough hook, and flat mixing paddle included
- Splash guard with pour spout
Consumer Reports praised this mixer for its exceptional performance with lighter tasks like whipping egg whites and mixing cake batters. While not quite as powerful as our top two picks for heavy dough, it handles most home baking needs with ease.
4. Wolf Gourmet Stand Mixer
For serious home bakers looking for professional-grade equipment, the Wolf Gourmet earned top marks in the premium category with:
- Commercial-grade 7-quart capacity
- Powerful 500-watt motor with variable speed dial
- Unique bowl lift design for stability during heavy mixing
- Includes flat beater, dough hook, and whisk attachments
- Industry-leading 5-year warranty
Consumer Reports testers noted this mixer's exceptional stability during high-speed operation and its ability to handle double batches of cookie and bread dough without straining.
5. Hamilton Beach 7-Speed Stand Mixer
Standing out as the budget-friendly champion, this Hamilton Beach model surprised testers with performance that rivaled mixers twice its price:
- 300-watt motor
- 4-quart stainless steel bowl
- 7 speeds including folding setting
- Planetary mixing action for complete bowl coverage
- Includes dough hook, whisk, and flat beater
While it doesn't match the power of premium models for heavy bread dough, Consumer Reports found it performed admirably for most everyday baking tasks, making it an excellent value option.
Key Features to Look for in a Quality Stand Mixer
When shopping for a stand mixer, these are the most important features to consider according to Consumer Reports testing:
Bowl Size and Capacity
Most home bakers find a 4.5 to 5-quart bowl ideal, allowing for standard recipes plus some room for expansion. Professional bakers or those who regularly cook for crowds might prefer 6 to 7-quart models.
Motor Power
Look for at least 250 watts for occasional use, or 325+ watts if you regularly work with heavy doughs. The most powerful models offer 500+ watts, providing ample power for any mixing task.
Mixing Action
Planetary mixing action is superior to stationary mixers, as the attachment rotates while simultaneously moving around the bowl, ensuring thorough ingredient incorporation without manual scraping.
Speed Settings
A quality mixer should offer at least 6 distinct speeds, with the best models featuring 10-12 settings plus a slow-start function that prevents ingredient splash.
Attachment Compatibility
Consider what additional attachments might enhance your cooking experience. Top models offer pasta makers, meat grinders, vegetable slicers, and even ice cream makers as optional add-ons.
Build Quality and Stability
Heavy-duty construction with metal gears and housing typically indicates a longer-lasting machine. The mixer should remain stable on your counter even when working with heavy doughs at high speeds.
Best Stand Mixers for Different Needs
Best for Bread Baking
The Wolf Gourmet Stand Mixer earned the highest ratings for bread dough, with its powerful motor maintaining consistent speed through the toughest kneading tasks.
Best for Occasional Bakers
The Hamilton Beach 7-Speed provides excellent value for those who bake primarily on holidays or weekends, offering good performance at an accessible price point.
Best Compact Option
The KitchenAid Artisan Mini (3.5-quart) scored well for smaller kitchens, maintaining the quality of its larger siblings in a space-saving design.
Best for Large Batches
With its 7-quart bowl, the KitchenAid Pro Line Series excelled at handling double recipes and large-batch baking, perfect for those who entertain frequently.
Most Versatile
The Ankarsrum Original Kitchen Machine earned top marks for versatility, with its unique design allowing it to excel at everything from delicate meringues to heavy bread doughs.
Tips for Maintaining Your Stand Mixer
To ensure your stand mixer provides years of reliable service, follow these expert maintenance tips:
- Clean thoroughly after each use, especially when working with wet ingredients that can harden if left to dry
- Check attachment clearance periodically and adjust if necessary
- Inspect the beater shaft for any food buildup that might affect performance
- Tighten any loose screws that may have vibrated loose during operation
- Store in a convenient location to encourage regular use and prevent damage from moving the mixer frequently
Most quality stand mixers are designed to last 15+ years with proper care, making them one of the best investments for your kitchen.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between tilt-head and bowl-lift mixers?
Tilt-head mixers allow the mixer head to tilt back for easy bowl and attachment access. These models are typically more compact and ideal for most home kitchens. Bowl-lift models use a lever to raise and lower the bowl while the head remains stationary. These are generally more powerful and stable but take up more vertical space.
How important is wattage when choosing a stand mixer?
While wattage is important—with 250 watts as a minimum for occasional use and 325+ watts for regular bakers—it's not the only indicator of performance. Consumer Reports testing found that mixing action design and gear quality often matter more than raw power specifications.
Can I use attachments from different brands with my mixer?
Generally, attachments are brand-specific and not interchangeable. KitchenAid offers the widest range of proprietary attachments, while some third-party manufacturers produce KitchenAid-compatible options, though these may void warranties.
How do I know if my mixer is kneading dough properly?
Properly kneaded bread dough should be smooth and elastic, pulling away cleanly from the sides of the bowl. Most mixers will need 5-7 minutes on medium-low speed to achieve this texture. If your dough remains sticky or rough after extended mixing, the mixer may not be powerful enough for bread making.
Is it worth paying more for a premium stand mixer?
Based on Consumer Reports durability testing, premium mixers often last decades longer than budget models, potentially making them more economical in the long run. Premium models also typically offer better performance with challenging tasks like bread dough and typically maintain their resale value.
How loud are stand mixers during operation?
Most stand mixers operate at between 65-85 decibels, similar to a normal conversation up to a blender. Premium models tend to be better insulated and therefore quieter. Consumer Reports found the Wolf Gourmet and Ankarsrum models to be the quietest performers.
Can stand mixers handle small quantities effectively?
This depends on the mixer and bowl design. Consumer Reports testing found that most 5-quart mixers struggle with very small quantities (like a single egg white), as the beaters can't effectively reach minimal ingredients. For frequent small-batch mixing, consider a compact model or hand mixer for these tasks.
Final Thoughts on Finding Your Perfect Stand Mixer
Investing in a quality stand mixer can transform your baking experience, saving time and effort while achieving professional results. While the KitchenAid Artisan Series remains the top overall performer according to Consumer Reports testing, the best mixer for your kitchen depends on your specific baking habits, budget, and space constraints.
At Bargain Boxed, we understand that kitchen equipment is a significant investment. That's why we've analyzed the Consumer Reports findings to help you make an informed decision that you'll be happy with for years to come. Remember that a quality stand mixer should last 15+ years with proper care, making it one of the most durable appliances in your kitchen arsenal.
Whether you're whipping up weekend cookies or artisanal bread, the right stand mixer can make all the difference between good results and great ones. Happy baking!