I would like to buy my Mom a Kitchenaid mixer for Christmas, but I'm not sure which is the best value. What is the difference between "Artisan" and "Classic" (Besides cost, of course)
Modern Kitchenaid Mixers
- Thread starter dalangdon
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Dan, are you set on a KA?
Pete, my mom saw my Hobart-era KA mixer at Thanksgiving, and thought it was really cool, so I'm somewhat stuck.
If she saw a Hobart KitchenAid mixer, she *may* be some what let down by today's models. Cannot say from personal experience, but over in several baking groups I'm a member of, there were many complaints and out right cursing of the newest KA mixers. IIRC, compaints ran the gamut from "cheap" gears to lack luster power (such as the thing giving out or even buring up when doing a simple cookie dough).
Really a shame you cannot land a MIB Hobart KA mixer for your mother. They are so rare and the last time one was on eBay it went for close to or over one thousand dollars (yes, for a mixer folks). Then again this was a late model truly untouched MIB Hobart KA mixer.
L.
Really a shame you cannot land a MIB Hobart KA mixer for your mother. They are so rare and the last time one was on eBay it went for close to or over one thousand dollars (yes, for a mixer folks). Then again this was a late model truly untouched MIB Hobart KA mixer.
L.
Dan,
Things to look for: all metal gears, a motor overload/reset button or feature.
I also prefer the bowl lift design to the head tilt design. I just think it's a sturdier design. You can get pretty good deals on 5 qt "professional" grade KA mixers. These have 475 watt motors and all-steel gears. The second is important because lesser KA mixers might have plastic gears that can strip out and then cost a small fortune to replace. Apparently in some cases they would strip out just mixing bread dough. The ones with metal gears should also have a "reset" feature, either on the speed control or a separate reset button. This is important to protect the motor in case the mixer jams on something. Instead of burning out the motor, or stripping the gears, the reset feature will sense a motor overload and stop the power to the motor.
I've been seeing the 5 qt professional model at Costco for about $260. That's a very good price for such a powerful and versatile mixer. And it comes in some pretty nice colors. The matte finish platinum is particularly fine. You might also want to look into getting her an accessory set - which operates off the power takeoff on the front of the mixer, and which may include a shredder/slicer, a meat grinder, a pasta maker. Other nice accessories might include a grain mill, a juicer (citrus type), a food mill.
Of course, if your mom prefers the tilt-head, by all means go with that. The tilt-heads are generally less powerful, with less capacity, and have lower prices as well (although I've seen stores like Macy's carry everyday prices for tilt-heads that are more than what Costco charges for a bowl-lift model!
Things to look for: all metal gears, a motor overload/reset button or feature.
I also prefer the bowl lift design to the head tilt design. I just think it's a sturdier design. You can get pretty good deals on 5 qt "professional" grade KA mixers. These have 475 watt motors and all-steel gears. The second is important because lesser KA mixers might have plastic gears that can strip out and then cost a small fortune to replace. Apparently in some cases they would strip out just mixing bread dough. The ones with metal gears should also have a "reset" feature, either on the speed control or a separate reset button. This is important to protect the motor in case the mixer jams on something. Instead of burning out the motor, or stripping the gears, the reset feature will sense a motor overload and stop the power to the motor.
I've been seeing the 5 qt professional model at Costco for about $260. That's a very good price for such a powerful and versatile mixer. And it comes in some pretty nice colors. The matte finish platinum is particularly fine. You might also want to look into getting her an accessory set - which operates off the power takeoff on the front of the mixer, and which may include a shredder/slicer, a meat grinder, a pasta maker. Other nice accessories might include a grain mill, a juicer (citrus type), a food mill.
Of course, if your mom prefers the tilt-head, by all means go with that. The tilt-heads are generally less powerful, with less capacity, and have lower prices as well (although I've seen stores like Macy's carry everyday prices for tilt-heads that are more than what Costco charges for a bowl-lift model!
The food mill attachment
is such a nice thing. I have used it, but don't have it.
I have a Hobart made K45, and I love it.
If I were buying new, and had the money, I would get the Hobart N-50,(?) a small commercial mixer. Cooks Illustrated loved it, but it is over 900. USD.
Lawrence/Maytagbear
is such a nice thing. I have used it, but don't have it.
I have a Hobart made K45, and I love it.
If I were buying new, and had the money, I would get the Hobart N-50,(?) a small commercial mixer. Cooks Illustrated loved it, but it is over 900. USD.
Lawrence/Maytagbear
jasonl
New member
I have a pink KA mixer from 2006 that Helen has made lots of cookies on it and not a lick of trouble. They're still built good.
hoover1060
Well-known member
- Joined
- Apr 9, 2005
- Messages
- 3,309
I have the Ultra power
replaced by the Artisan series. Good mixer, serves me very well.
One thing to consider is the bowl, mine has the handle on it and it makes moving a heavy mixture from bowl to pan pretty easy. I know some classic models don't have the handle on the bowl.
I would say match the machine to the amount of baking your mom does. If its occasional cakes and cookies and mashed potatoes, a Classic model will serve her well. It she's a serious baker, then one of the heavier duty models would be better. Also something to consider is where the mixer will live. If on the counter is ok for a KA, always at the ready. However hefting one of those beasts out of the cupboard each time you want to use it can get to be a P.I.T.A.
I also have a Hobart KA, model 4C. Amazing machine, and its been the mixer I reach for since it arrived in my kitchen. I think the only time I have used my Ultra Power since was to make dumpling dough, and that was because the 4C does not have a dough hook!
replaced by the Artisan series. Good mixer, serves me very well.
One thing to consider is the bowl, mine has the handle on it and it makes moving a heavy mixture from bowl to pan pretty easy. I know some classic models don't have the handle on the bowl.
I would say match the machine to the amount of baking your mom does. If its occasional cakes and cookies and mashed potatoes, a Classic model will serve her well. It she's a serious baker, then one of the heavier duty models would be better. Also something to consider is where the mixer will live. If on the counter is ok for a KA, always at the ready. However hefting one of those beasts out of the cupboard each time you want to use it can get to be a P.I.T.A.
I also have a Hobart KA, model 4C. Amazing machine, and its been the mixer I reach for since it arrived in my kitchen. I think the only time I have used my Ultra Power since was to make dumpling dough, and that was because the 4C does not have a dough hook!
I have a Classic, several years old but hasn't seen much use. I do wish the bowl was a little larger to help prevent spattering. I have a pouring shield, but it's cumbersome.
The funny thing is....
My mom is about as much of a baker as I am an Otolaryngologist. And I really don't think she's going to be starting a new career at this phase in her life.
With that said, she does do a fair amount of cooking and baking for the St. Francis Homeless Shelter, so it needs to be fairly dependable.
Maybe a trip to Costco is in order. Luckily, they finally have one in Omaha now. I wouldn't want to have to ship one from here.
My mom is about as much of a baker as I am an Otolaryngologist. And I really don't think she's going to be starting a new career at this phase in her life.
With that said, she does do a fair amount of cooking and baking for the St. Francis Homeless Shelter, so it needs to be fairly dependable.
Maybe a trip to Costco is in order. Luckily, they finally have one in Omaha now. I wouldn't want to have to ship one from here.
I've had an "Ultra" for about 15 years and have had good service from it. My mother bought a Classic two years ago and I was shocked to see no handle on the bowl - we bought one with a handle for hers and she likes it much better, plus, there's another bowl if you need it. I haven't shopped Costco for mixers, but have been impressed with the store so far. If you're coming back during the holidays, let me know - we'll have a wash-in!
Regarding KitchenAid Problems
Complaints were from a few years back when KA switched production/desgin, perhaps Kitchenaid heard the complaints and made changes?
As pour moi, still prefer my Kenwood or Bosch mixer over KA, but that is just me. Each has their own strengths, in general however prefer the Kenwood for batters, cookie doughs and such, and the Kenwood for bread, pastry and heavy doughs.
One thing I would want the KA for is to use the copper bowl for whipping egg whites.
L.
Complaints were from a few years back when KA switched production/desgin, perhaps Kitchenaid heard the complaints and made changes?
As pour moi, still prefer my Kenwood or Bosch mixer over KA, but that is just me. Each has their own strengths, in general however prefer the Kenwood for batters, cookie doughs and such, and the Kenwood for bread, pastry and heavy doughs.
One thing I would want the KA for is to use the copper bowl for whipping egg whites.
L.
Speaking of KitchenAids!
But! Remember there's a height difference between the models! Is there enough space on the counter for the taller height Pro series? My counter to upper cabinet height is too short for my lift bowl Pro series. So I use my older power plus machine more. I also think it does a better job on smaller quantities than the bigger machine. I also have a 7 qt Kenwood, but no handle on the bowl makes it awkward and besides, it's loud! Still fun when I need it.
My thoughts this holiday season!
Greg Bushman
Luxflairgy-Seattle
But! Remember there's a height difference between the models! Is there enough space on the counter for the taller height Pro series? My counter to upper cabinet height is too short for my lift bowl Pro series. So I use my older power plus machine more. I also think it does a better job on smaller quantities than the bigger machine. I also have a 7 qt Kenwood, but no handle on the bowl makes it awkward and besides, it's loud! Still fun when I need it.
My thoughts this holiday season!
Greg Bushman
Luxflairgy-Seattle
I have an Ultra Power tilt head that's about 20 years old and no problems. My sister has my mom's old Hobart K45. It was making a screeching noise so my dad went out and got a new Classic model for my mom. An inferior non-Hobart machine but it has served my mom well and she's an avid baker. A little WD-40 on a spindle quieted the Hobart one down and my sister has been using it for years since. I sure would like to get my hands on that one again.
As has been stated, the Classic model has a cheaper spun-finish bowl that has no handle so that's something to consider.
I saw that Fry's Electronics had a Professional lift-head type on sale, 575 watts, factory refurbished, $169 after rebate. I'm tempted to go for one of these if their design makes adding ingredients to the bowl easier. My partner says the pouring shield on the Ultra Power is a hassle to use. Then again, my mom swore by hers.
As has been stated, the Classic model has a cheaper spun-finish bowl that has no handle so that's something to consider.
I saw that Fry's Electronics had a Professional lift-head type on sale, 575 watts, factory refurbished, $169 after rebate. I'm tempted to go for one of these if their design makes adding ingredients to the bowl easier. My partner says the pouring shield on the Ultra Power is a hassle to use. Then again, my mom swore by hers.
wmlask
Active member
The Real Hobart Mixer
This is terribly expensive but truly heavy duty. My friend Joe is a pastry chef and has 2 of these Hobarts and would die without them. He EBAYED his Kenwood when he got the first one. It has an induction type motor and is unstoppable.
I've got two 5 Quart Kitchen Aid mixers, one is cobalt blue from the late 80's with a 325 watt motor. The other is a black Proline from the early 90's with a 350 watt motor. Both have seen tons of use and have been trouble free.
For light duty stuff like cakes and frosting I still prefer my old Sunbeams. Models, 10,11 or 12.
This is terribly expensive but truly heavy duty. My friend Joe is a pastry chef and has 2 of these Hobarts and would die without them. He EBAYED his Kenwood when he got the first one. It has an induction type motor and is unstoppable.
I've got two 5 Quart Kitchen Aid mixers, one is cobalt blue from the late 80's with a 325 watt motor. The other is a black Proline from the early 90's with a 350 watt motor. Both have seen tons of use and have been trouble free.
For light duty stuff like cakes and frosting I still prefer my old Sunbeams. Models, 10,11 or 12.
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vacuumfreeeke
Well-known member
- Joined
- Jan 22, 2007
- Messages
- 276
I have...
I have a KA Classic that I bought for 30 dollars from a lady that was a waiteress at the restaurant where I worked when I was 16 or 17. I'm 24 now and I've used that thing once or twice a week with no trouble. The beater seems a little out of adjustment and I just can't get it right... and the motor had a different pitch than I think a new one would. Maybe it's on the way out. I've made bread (yes in the Classic!), brownies, all kinds of cookies, cheesecake, whipped egg whites, more pumpkin pies than I care to remember. It's been good for me, and I do hope it lasts a while longer. If it doesn't I'm not sure I'd replace it with another Kitchen Aid after some of the stories I've heard. I might seek an OLD Mixmaster (60's or so, before they started "squaring" them off). If I did get another Kitchen Aid, it would probably be the Artisan (don't like the bowl lift models) in red.
Anyone have any tips for getting the beater/bowl aligned properly? I made a lemon meringue pie yesterday and the whip was "tinging" a bit. Today I made an Oreo Cheesecake and I think I heard the beater hitting the bowl. I can never seem to get the perfect balance, and yes I've read the manual. When I got the mixer, the acrylic coating on the apex of the flat beater was already worn off. I've used it like that over the years and it's worked fine... just doesn't look great. For 30 bucks, I didn't complain!
Also, don't put the flat beater in the dishwasher. When I got a dishwasher, I did this and now if I don't oil the shaft every now and then, it sticks. I have to bang it off with a meat mallet (just hit straight up toward the shaft on the apex of the beater).
I have a KA Classic that I bought for 30 dollars from a lady that was a waiteress at the restaurant where I worked when I was 16 or 17. I'm 24 now and I've used that thing once or twice a week with no trouble. The beater seems a little out of adjustment and I just can't get it right... and the motor had a different pitch than I think a new one would. Maybe it's on the way out. I've made bread (yes in the Classic!), brownies, all kinds of cookies, cheesecake, whipped egg whites, more pumpkin pies than I care to remember. It's been good for me, and I do hope it lasts a while longer. If it doesn't I'm not sure I'd replace it with another Kitchen Aid after some of the stories I've heard. I might seek an OLD Mixmaster (60's or so, before they started "squaring" them off). If I did get another Kitchen Aid, it would probably be the Artisan (don't like the bowl lift models) in red.
Anyone have any tips for getting the beater/bowl aligned properly? I made a lemon meringue pie yesterday and the whip was "tinging" a bit. Today I made an Oreo Cheesecake and I think I heard the beater hitting the bowl. I can never seem to get the perfect balance, and yes I've read the manual. When I got the mixer, the acrylic coating on the apex of the flat beater was already worn off. I've used it like that over the years and it's worked fine... just doesn't look great. For 30 bucks, I didn't complain!
Also, don't put the flat beater in the dishwasher. When I got a dishwasher, I did this and now if I don't oil the shaft every now and then, it sticks. I have to bang it off with a meat mallet (just hit straight up toward the shaft on the apex of the beater).
