Best Stand Mixers to Purchase in 2026

At a Glance

Category	Product	Why We Picked It
Best overall	KitchenAid Artisan 5-Quart Tilt-Head Stand Mixer	reliable performance for most baking tasks
Best value	Aucma 6.5-Quart Stand Mixer	capable mixing at a budget-friendly price
Best for bread dough	Ooni Halo Pro Spiral Mixer	gentle kneading with professional results
Best for small kitchens	KitchenAid Artisan Mini 3.5-Quart	compact design with full functionality
Also recommended	Ankarsrum Stand Mixer	excellent alternative for bread dough with unique rotating bowl design
Also recommended	Bosch Universal Plus Mixer	efficient dough kneading with different motor placement
Also recommended	KitchenAid 7-Quart Bowl Lift Stand Mixer	ideal for large batches and heavy doughs

How we chose and tested

We evaluated stand mixers based on performance across common baking tasks. Testing included kneading different dough types, whipping cream and egg whites, and creaming butter and sugar. We considered ease of use, noise levels, and how well each machine handled both small and large batches. Durability and available attachments also factored into our recommendations.

The best stand mixers right now

KitchenAid Artisan 5-Quart Tilt-Head Stand Mixer - Best overall

This classic mixer delivers consistent results for everything from cookies to bread dough. Its tilt-head design makes adding ingredients and cleaning straightforward.

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Key highlights

325-watt motor handles most home baking needs
Tilt-head provides easy access to bowl
Compatible with dozens of KitchenAid attachments
Available in numerous color options
Durable construction with proven track record

Pros

Excellent performance across all mixing tasks
Simple controls that are easy to understand
Wide range of available attachments expands functionality
Stable during operation with minimal vibration

Cons

Can struggle with very heavy dough batches
Some users report motor strain with extended use
Relatively heavy at 21 pounds

Who it is for: Home bakers who want a reliable, versatile mixer for regular use.

Skip if

You primarily make large batches of heavy dough or have very limited counter space.

Aucma 6.5-Quart Stand Mixer - Best value

This budget-friendly mixer punches above its weight class, offering solid performance for occasional bakers.

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Key highlights

660-watt motor provides adequate power
6.5-quart capacity handles family-sized batches
Tilt-head design offers easy access
Includes essential attachments
Lower price point than premium brands

Pros

Good value for the money
Handles most standard baking tasks well
Larger capacity than many similarly priced mixers
Stable during operation

Cons

Build quality not as robust as premium models
Can be noisy at higher speeds
Limited attachment options compared to KitchenAid

Who it is for: Budget-conscious bakers or those new to stand mixers.

Skip if

You bake frequently and need maximum durability or plan to use many attachments.

Ooni Halo Pro Spiral Mixer - Best for bread dough

Designed specifically for dough, this mixer uses a spiral hook and rotating bowl for gentle, effective kneading.

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Key highlights

Spiral hook design kneads dough gently
Rotating bowl ensures even mixing
Excellent for developing gluten structure
Quieter operation than many competitors
Professional-grade results

Pros

Superior dough kneading performance
Gentle action preserves dough structure
Handles heavy dough batches easily
Relatively quiet during operation

Cons

Higher price point
Less versatile for non-dough tasks
Larger footprint than tilt-head models

Who it is for: Serious bread bakers who prioritize dough quality above all else.

Skip if

You rarely make bread or need a mixer for general baking tasks.

KitchenAid Artisan Mini 3.5-Quart Tilt-Head Stand Mixer - Best for small kitchens

This compact version maintains KitchenAid quality while taking up less counter space.

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Key highlights

25% smaller footprint than standard Artisan
3.5-quart capacity suitable for smaller batches
Same tilt-head design as larger models
Compatible with most KitchenAid attachments
Lighter weight at 18 pounds

Pros

Saves valuable counter space
Handles most standard baking tasks well
Easier to move and store
Maintains KitchenAid quality and reliability

Cons

Smaller capacity limits batch sizes
Less powerful motor than full-sized models
May struggle with very heavy dough

Who it is for: Bakers with limited kitchen space or those who typically make smaller batches.

Skip if

You regularly bake for large groups or need maximum capacity.

Also Good

Ankarsrum Stand Mixer - excellent alternative for bread dough with unique rotating bowl design.
Bosch Universal Plus Mixer - efficient dough kneading with different motor placement.
KitchenAid 7-Quart Bowl Lift Stand Mixer - ideal for large batches and heavy doughs.

How to Choose

Consider these factors when selecting a stand mixer:

Capacity: Match bowl size to your typical batch sizes. Five quarts works for most home bakers, while larger families might prefer six quarts or more.

Motor power: More wattage helps with heavy dough, but most home bakers don't need commercial-grade power. Look for at least 300 watts for general use.

Design type: Tilt-head models offer easier access, while bowl-lift designs provide more stability for heavy mixing.

Attachments: Consider what additional tasks you might want to tackle. KitchenAid offers the widest range, but other brands have basic options.

Counter space: Measure your available space. Some models have surprisingly large footprints, especially bowl-lift designs.

FAQ

Do I really need a stand mixer if I already have a hand mixer?

A stand mixer handles heavier tasks like kneading bread dough that can strain or damage hand mixers. It also frees up your hands while mixing.

How long should a stand mixer last?

Quality models can last 10-20 years with proper care. KitchenAid mixers are known for their durability and repairability.

Can I use my stand mixer for small batches?

Most stand mixers work best with at least a few cups of ingredients. For very small amounts, a hand mixer or food processor might work better.

What's the difference between tilt-head and bowl-lift designs?

Tilt-head models hinge backward for bowl access, while bowl-lift models raise the bowl to the beaters. Bowl-lift designs often handle heavier loads better.

Are expensive attachments worth buying?

It depends on how often you'll use them. The pasta roller and meat grinder get high marks from frequent users, while specialty attachments might gather dust.