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KitchenAid Mixer vs Hand Mixer

photos of a Purple stand mixer and a white hand mixer meeting on the diagonal in the middle

Which came first, the stand or hand mixer? It was the hand mixer starting with the old-fashioned whisk. Then came the mechanical hand mixer and finally the electric mixer. Which one is best? That is up to you to decide.

What is a Stand Mixer?

Pink KitchenAid stand mixer on a white counter

The stand mixer is not something that can be put away in a small drawer. It comes with a large stand that holds all the weight of the mixer and unfortunately, that stand means that the mixer must remain on your kitchen counter or be placed in a huge closet when not in use.

The first stand mixer was introduced in 1919 and it weighed 65 pounds. Strong women made door-to-door sales pitches just to get the homemaker interested in this new product. The cost to buy one of these appliances at that time was $189 which equals a month’s wage today.

What is a Hand mixer?

Teal and white hand mixer on a white background

The hand mixer has been around since the beginning of time. It has taken on many shapes and designs and as soon as a spoon was invented, the hand mixer was too. Most people are familiar with the mechanical models that have been in production since the mid-19th century.

The designs have changed over the years, but the mixing principle has remained the same. Then a motor was attached leaving you with one free hand to manipulate the bowl as you mixed. The powered hand mixer is portable and easy to store when not in use.

How are they Different?

A white KitchenAid stand mixer on a black background

When comparing just the power version so both, the stand mixer usually has more speeds at its fingertips. Sometimes those variable speeds can reach 10 while the hand mixer is not as powerful nor can go as fast.

Then the stand mixer leaves you with two free hands to help you handle the mixing. The power hand mixing only leaves you with one free hand to help make your dough, etc.

On top of that, the hand mixer is probably easier to clean as it is smaller and has fewer parts to get dirty. You can usually just wipe it down when you are done and you do not have a stand to worry about.

How are they Similar?

A silver KitchenAid hand mixer on a white background

The principle of mixing is the same for both mixers. You turn the power on, choose a speed and put the bowl in place. Then you just add and mix the ingredients. With the stand mixer though, you usually just need a spatula to get the ingredients from the edge and into the beaters.

For the hand mixer you usually just need to move the bowl. Both need to be plugged in and their power cords are not generally that long. You have to stand near an outlet to operate both devices.

What’s Better About Stand Mixer?

Close up of a pink KitchenAid stand mixer with batter in the bowl

The first item that makes this appliance better is its power. You get a bigger motor that produces more speed which speeds up your mixing time. Also, you can use bigger bowls, both hands, and an assortment of tools to get your batter or dough ready for cooking or baking.

You have two free hands, not just one which helps smooth out the mixing process. Then the size of the mixer makes it a very sturdy and durable appliance to use. It should not break down on you that quickly unless you misuse it in some way.

What’s Better About Hand Mixer?

Red hand mixer with its beaters in a bowl of whipped cream resting on a wooden table

One thing that makes it better than a stand mixer is that it is portable. You can use one hand to move it to where you need it. Then another aspect that makes this device better is its lightweight. You do not need help lifting or carrying it. It is so light a child can move it.

Then, the hand mixer is easier to clean. You won’t hurt your back carrying it to the sink. The beaters pop right out making cleaning them a snap. Also, you use less power with a hand mixer because the motor is not as powerful as a stand mixer’s motor.

Who Should Get a Stand Mixer?

Light blue stand mixer on a white kitchen counter with kitchen sink in the foreground

Stand mixers are for anyone who likes to bake. They are powerful, have variable speeds, and leaves your hands free to add new ingredients, etc. and they should not break down.

Whether you are serious about baking or just do it on weekends, the stand mixer will always be there ready to serve.

Who Should Get a Hand Mixer?

Woman in red check apron and a white shirt using a hand mixer with one hand while pouring milk in the bowl with the other hand.

This is a handy device to have around the house. It may not be as powerful as the stand mixer but it has its place in any home. If you are not a full-time baker at home, then all you would need is this appliance.

They are easy to use, maneuver, and clean.

Quick Comparison Chart

  Category  Stand mixer  Hand mixer
  Motor  More powerful than a hand mixer  Not quite as powerful but does a good job
  Speeds  May have up to 10 different speeds  May only have up to 5 different speeds
  Durability  Very strong construction materials and should last a long time  While made from quality materials not built to last
  Portability  Not very portable  Very portable
  Weight  Can be very heavy  Very light and easy to hold
  Batter/dough making  Good for any number of batters & dough you need to make  Not always good with tough, heavy ingredients to mix
  Cost  Can be very expensive  Usually very affordable

Please keep in mind that we may receive a small commissions when you click our links and make purchases. However, this does not impact our reviews and comparisons. We try our best to keep things fair and balanced, in order to help you make the best choice for you.

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