SpeedsĮven budget stand mixers offer variable speeds so you can tailor your speed to your mixing job. Both types are relatively easy to use, but touch buttons are more user-friendly, and it can be difficult to clean dials and levers if batter splashes on them. Most budget stand mixers feature dial or lever controls, but a few incorporate touch controls. Many budget stand mixers feature stationary mixing, but you can also find affordable planetary models if you don’t mind a smaller bowl. While these models suffice for thinner batters and lighter mixing jobs, the mix isn’t as consistent as what you’d get from a planetary mixer. Stationary stand mixers feature two stationary beaters that spin as the bowl rotates. This provides the most consistent mixing because more contact occurs between beater and mixture. Planetary stand mixers have a single beater that spins as it rotates through the bowl. Stand mixers use one of two mixing styles: planetary or stationary. However, if you like to make larger batches of cookies, brownies, or other baked goods, you may want to opt for a 6-quart model. For most mixing tasks, a 4- to 5-quart bowl is large enough. In general, budget stand mixer bowls hold between 3 and 6 quarts. Note that budget models tend to have smaller bowls, so you may need to mix in batches. Bowl capacityĬhoose a stand mixer with a bowl that’s large enough for the recipes you usually prepare. If you plan to keep it on a shelf or in a cabinet, you’ll want to be certain it’s not too heavy to lift out of storage. If you plan to leave the mixer out on the counter, measure the spot where you’ll keep it. Think, too, about how much space you have in your kitchen. Many stand mixers weigh 12 to 20 pounds budget mixers are often on the lighter side. Nearly all stand mixers are bulky and heavy the mixer must weigh enough to withstand the force generated when mixing at high speed. For the most efficient mixing, choose a budget model that offers at least 300 watts. Stand mixer motor power is usually measured in watts. We recommend that you buy the most powerful stand mixer that fits your budget. A stand mixer with a stronger motor can handle thicker, heavier batters. When choosing a budget stand mixer, you certainly don’t want to skimp on power. If you have arthritis or diminished hand and arm strength, a stand mixer is an excellent option because it does the work for you. We created this buying guide to help you determine what you need in a budget stand mixer in terms of size, weight, power, and features. However, most stand mixers are pricey, and that discourages some home bakers from buying one.Ī budget stand mixer may have a slightly smaller bowl and fewer speeds than a pricier model, but it can make your work much easier in the kitchen. It consists of a mixing arm that holds attachments like a flat beater, whisk, or dough hook and a separate bowl that locks in place during mixing. If you haven’t yet invested in a stand mixer because of the price, we’ve got good news: there are plenty of excellent budget stand mixers that fit the bill.Ī stand mixer is a powerful stationary appliance that can mix batter, whip cream, and knead dough quickly and easily. Preparing cake batter, cookie batter, and even bread dough with a stand mixer is so much easier than muscling through it by hand. Any serious home baker knows that life in the kitchen is better with a stand mixer.