The Hand Mixer Versus the Stand Mixer

An age old question: Which is better, the hand mixer versus the stand mixer?  If you are in the market for a new mixer for yourself, a new cook or a newlywed gift, then researching the best mixer to buy is a must before purchasing.  I hope I can help you with some "food for thought" in the differences between a portable hand mixer and a larger stand mixer.

One of the first items that may be on your list to research is price range that fits within your budget.  This is pretty much self-explanatory that a hand mixer with be much less expensive than a larger stand mixer.  Prices for the hand mixers range from a very inexpensive $15 to a Kitchen Aid hand mixer for $99.  Like the old saying goes, "you get what you pay for".  The less expensive mixers have smaller motors, less attachments and limited warranties.  The more expensive models are more powerful with extra attachments.  I own a Sunbeam hand mixer that is just as powerful as a stand mixer.  It was priced around $30 years ago.

Stand mixers are priced from approximately $99 all the way up to several hundred dollars or more.  Professional mixers range in the thousands but usually only commercial kitchens or professional bakers look for this type of mixer.  Just as with the hand mixers, the less expensive mixers have smaller motors, less speeds and limited attachments available.  The more expensive the stand mixer the larger the motor, more attachments are included and like with the Kitchen Aid brand there are many accessories to purchase in the future.

The next item to compare between the hand and stand mixer is size.  This means keep in mind the space you have available either in your kitchen or in the person's kitchen that you are buying for.  A portable mixer is small and will store easily in small spaces.  A large stand one will need a large counter space or cabinet area to store it in.  With some brands the style and colors are so attractive that you won't mind keeping it out on the counter where everyone can see it.  One popular brand of mixer actually comes out with one to two new colors each year to match home decor.

The last important question I have for you when deciding between the hand mixer versus the stand mixer is what are your actually baking and mixing needs?  Are you or your gift recipient an avid cook or baker?  Or are you just needing a basic appliance for once in awhile cooking?  Once you define the type of cook that is receiving this new mixer, then you will have your answer on which style of mixer to purchase, the hand mixer or the stand mixer.

Kitchen Aid 9 Speed Hand Mixer