6 Best KitchenAid Mixers of 2026

This game-changing Artisan mixer doesn’t just mix—it anticipates. The standout star? The included Flex Edge Beater, a genius innovation that scrapes the bowl as it mixes, slashing prep time and eliminating the annoying need to stop and fold ingredients manually. Backed by a robust metal construction and 59-point planetary mixing action, it ensures no ingredient gets left behind, making it ideal for bakers tired of uneven batter or dough clumping at the edges. If you’ve ever cursed mid-recipe because flour sticks to the sides, this model solves that.

In real-world testing, the 5-quart stainless steel bowl handled everything from stiff sourdough to airy meringue with authority. The 10-speed control lets you go from gentle folding to high-speed whipping seamlessly—perfect when switching tasks within one recipe. We whipped heavy cream at speed 8 without splatter, and the tilt-head design made adding chocolate chips a breeze. However, while the motor is strong, it can hum noticeably under heavy loads like thick cookie dough for extended periods—still, it never stalled. Its size also demands counter space, so compact kitchens may feel the squeeze.

Compared to the standard Artisan KSM150PS, this bundle delivers more value out of the box thanks to the Flex Edge Beater, which alone can cost extra. It’s a smarter pick than the base model for frequent bakers who want efficiency without hunting down accessories later. While pricier than other Artisan variants, it justifies the cost with time-saving engineering. For those who bake often and hate repetitive scraping, this mixer isn’t just convenient—it’s a workflow revolution.

Sleek, powerful, and thoughtfully accessorized, this workhorse-ready Artisan model earns its reputation as a top value pick. The included pouring shield is a subtle but brilliant upgrade—it keeps flour from puffing all over your countertop while letting you add ingredients smoothly, a detail that transforms messy bakes into clean operations. With 10-speed precision and a 5-quart stainless steel bowl, it handles everything from pancake batter to pizza dough with confidence. For home bakers seeking pro-level performance without overcomplicating things, this mixer strikes the perfect balance of function and finesse.

During testing, we appreciated how the tilt-head design gave full access to the bowl, making it easy to swap beaters or check texture mid-mix. The motor stayed cool even after kneading two batches of bread back-to-back, and the planetary mixing action ensured even distribution every time. The 36-inch cord offers generous reach, so you’re not tethered to one outlet. That said, the pouring shield fits snugly but can be tricky to align at first, and the mixer lacks the Flex Edge Beater’s self-scraping magic—meaning you’ll still need to pause and scrape occasionally.

When stacked against the porcelain KSM150PS, this version offers identical core performance but with a practical edge: the pouring shield adds real utility right away. It’s a better starting point than the Classic Series for those upgrading from hand mixers, offering more capacity and stability. While it doesn’t have flashy extras, it excels where it counts—consistent mixing, solid build, and smart accessories—making it the most well-rounded choice for daily bakers who want reliability with a touch of elegance.

Don’t let the minimalist look fool you—this no-frills powerhouse is built for bakers who want KitchenAid quality without the premium tag. The all-metal construction feels rock-solid, and the 59-point planetary action ensures thorough mixing, just like its pricier siblings. Though it has a slightly smaller 4.5-quart bowl, it still tackles up to 8 dozen cookies in one go—more than enough for most households. If you’re tired of flimsy mixers that wobble or stall, this model delivers dependable performance at a wallet-friendly entry point.

In practice, the Classic Series handled cookie dough, cake batters, and whipped cream with impressive consistency. The 10-speed control gives ample range, though lower speeds can feel a bit coarse for delicate folding. We noticed it vibrates slightly more than the Artisan models on high speed, especially with dense mixtures, but the clamp base helps stabilize it. It doesn’t come with a pouring shield or flex beater, and the coated attachments work well but aren’t as durable as stainless versions. Still, for basic to intermediate baking needs, it’s more than capable.

Compared to the Artisan KSM150PS, it trades bowl size and polish for affordability—ideal if you bake regularly but don’t need pro-level volume. It’s also a better long-term investment than most hand mixers, offering hands-free operation and greater torque. While it lacks the visual flair of colored models, it’s the smart pick for budget-conscious cooks who value substance over style. You’re getting 90% of the performance at a fraction of the cost—hard to beat for first-time stand mixer owners.

When counter space is tight or you just need to whip up a quick batch of frosting, this nimble powerhouse proves that handheld doesn’t mean underpowered. As the #1 mixer brand worldwide, KitchenAid packs serious muscle into this compact unit—its 9-speed control lets you go from gently folding egg whites to kneading yeast dough without breaking a sweat. The Stainless Steel Turbo Beater II cuts through thick batters like brownie mix with ease, while the Pro Whisk delivers stiff peaks in minutes. For cooks who want versatility without the bulk of a stand mixer, this is a space-saving marvel.

Real-world use shows it excels in small-to-medium tasks: blending smoothies, whipping cream, and mixing muffin batter are all effortless. The blending rod is a standout—perfect for emulsifying dressings or making single-serve shakes directly in a tall glass. All attachments are dishwasher-safe, a huge plus for cleanup. However, it’s not meant for heavy, prolonged jobs like large bread doughs; your arms will tire, and the motor may strain. Also, while it includes two dough hooks (a rare bonus), they’re better suited for small batches.

Compared to stand mixers like the Artisan series, it’s obviously less powerful and requires manual control—but that’s not the point. It’s faster to grab and store, ideal for occasional bakers or as a backup. When weighed against other hand mixers, it stands out with pro-grade accessories and brand reliability. If you already own a stand mixer, this complements it beautifully for quick fixes; if you don’t, it’s an affordable way to get serious mixing power without the commitment—a true kitchen MVP for light to moderate tasks.

This polished performer earns its title as the Best Overall with a flawless blend of form, function, and future-proofing. The porcelain finish isn’t just beautiful—it’s durable, resisting scratches and stains that plague painted models, making it ideal for busy kitchens where style meets daily wear. Under the hood, it boasts the same 5-quart bowl, 59-point planetary mixing, and 10-speed power as other Artisan models, ensuring no compromise on performance. If you want a mixer that looks stunning on display and delivers restaurant-quality results, this is the gold standard.

We tested it across breads, meringues, and dense brownie batter—the motor remained smooth and stable, with zero stalling. The tilt-head locks securely, and the handle on the bowl makes pouring effortless, even when full. The included pouring shield is a game-changer for adding dry ingredients without mess, and all attachments are coated for easy release and cleaning. The only caveat? The porcelain surface, while tough, can chip if struck hard—so it demands a bit more care than stainless or painted finishes.

Stacked against the Aqua Sky version, it’s identical in specs but wins on practical durability and timeless appeal. Compared to the Value Bundle, it lacks the Flex Edge Beater but makes up for it with superior finish quality. It’s not the cheapest, but it’s the most complete package for long-term bakers who want lasting beauty and flawless function. For those who view their mixer as both a tool and a centerpiece, this model offers unmatched balance of elegance and engineering.

With its vibrant Aqua Sky hue, this mixer isn’t just an appliance—it’s a design statement that sparks joy every time you walk into the kitchen. Beyond the color, it’s built like a pro machine: the 5-quart stainless steel bowl and 59-point planetary mixing action ensure every ingredient is perfectly incorporated, whether you’re making fluffy cake batter or sticky cinnamon roll dough. The power hub compatibility opens doors to over 15 attachments—from pasta rollers to ice cream makers—turning it into a culinary command center. For bakers who want personality and performance, this model delivers both in spades.

In testing, mixing performance was on par with other Artisan models—consistent, powerful, and quiet enough for open-plan kitchens. The pouring shield minimized mess when adding flour, and the tilt-head design made cleanup easy. We loved how the color stayed vibrant after wiping down spills, resisting stains better than expected. However, the bold shade may not match every kitchen aesthetic, and like all Artisan mixers, it demands significant counter space. Still, for those who cook with passion and pride in their space, the visual uplift is worth it.

Compared to the Contour Silver version, it’s mechanically identical—same motor, same bowl, same speed range. The difference is purely aesthetic, but that’s the point: style as a feature. While the Classic Series saves money and the Porcelain model offers durability, this one wins on emotional appeal. If you believe your kitchen should reflect your personality and you bake often, this mixer offers equal performance with maximum flair—proof that beauty and brawn can coexist.