How to choose the best budget stand mixers

If you are a baking enthusiast, you may have contemplated advancing your baking abilities. We have compiled a list of the most affordable stand mixers to assist you in making a decision. These mixers can save time beating eggs and kneading dough, allowing you to bake large quantities of cookies and cakes. 

These stand mixers facilitate productivity with features such as hands-free operation, increased speed, and time savings. These mixers do not burn a hole in your wallet and provide everything you need for an effortless baking experience. Explore our list to learn more about stand mixers so you can make an informed choice. 

How do stand mixers work? 

These dependable machines have at least one mixing bowl and a fixed stand with a lever-operated arm. Add your ingredients to the bowl, lower the arm, and turn on the machine to begin mixing your ingredients. Some models feature a planetary mixing action, in which the tools rotate while simultaneously moving around the bowl for more thorough mixing and to prevent the mixture from sticking to the bowl’s rim. 

Other mixers that lack this function mix without extra rotation. A stand mixer does all the manual work for you and has a strong motor for rapid and thorough blending. It is also possible to attach various mixing attachments on certain lever arms. Pasta makers, grinders, and even juicers are examples of available attachments. 

The best budget stand mixers 

Price is primarily determined by the overall build quality, including attachments, power, and mixing proficiency; however, you may also consider other factors when deciding how much you are willing to spend. 

Up to ten-speed settings may be available on stand mixers, including a kneading function for low-speed mixing and faster speeds for whipping eggs or cream. There should ideally be multiple options to accommodate a variety of mixing requirements. 

It’s also worth noting that it’s not uncommon for newer models with identical specifications to cost more than their predecessors simply because they offer more color options. (The many variations of the KitchenAid Artisan line are an example.) 

In general, the heavier a stand mixer is, the less likely it is that it will move around on your kitchen counter. However, if you use it infrequently or have a small kitchen, you may want to consider a model that is lighter and more easily stored away. Some less expensive stand mixers may include only one or two attachments, while others contain many accessories. The standard tools that every kitchen should have been a dough hook, a beater, and a balloon whisk. 

How do we evaluate mixers? 

We have evaluated 38 stand mixers with multiple trials based on the most common recipes for mixing and whipping with a stand mixer. 

Begin by kneading the bread dough. We test the dough hooks to see how they handle a thick and sticky mixture. To evaluate the whisking ability, the minimum and maximum amounts of egg whites are whisked to determine if the whisk can reach the bottom of the bowl and handle large quantities. 

We mix the ingredients of a Christmas pudding (unsurprisingly, a favorite in the office) to test how well the machines can handle thick, dense mixtures. Additionally, we make lighter sponges and pastries to determine whether the device can take light combinations. In addition, we evaluate its usability, such as how simple its controls and attachments are to operate and install. Additionally, we examine the design and instructions. 

How to choose the best budget stand mixers 

Here are some factors to consider before purchasing an inexpensive stand mixer. 

• Mixer size: Depending on their capacity, mixers can be large or small. If you have limited counter space, choose a compact mixer with a medium capacity. Also, measure the height of the location where you intend to store the mixer if you choose a tilt-head model.
• Quantity: If you want a mixer that can handle large quantities of bread and cookies, you must purchase one with a strong motor. Some brands specify the maximum capacity of the mixer, so be sure to read the label. Additionally, you should consider the mixing bowl’s capacity.
• Attachments: A beater will suffice if the mixer is only used for basic mixing. You may need to purchase a mixer with multiple attachments to perform various tasks, such as kneading, creaming, and whipping.
• Speed options: A mixer with variable speed settings allows you to control how slowly or quickly the ingredients are mixed.
• Motor power: The more powerful your machine is, the simpler it is to blend dense ingredients. Wattage can affect the mixer’s performance; a 650-watt motor power mixer is superior to a 250-watt motor power mixer for kneading thick dough.
• Storage space: Given how valuable and stylish some designs can be, you may want to keep a stand mixer on your countertop. If so, measure its intended spot and check the machine’s dimensions before you buy. Another reason to keep them on display is that they’re cumbersome to move, so try lifting a few in a store to determine which model feels most manageable.
• Bowl material: For added convenience, most mixing bowls are made of stainless steel, typically dishwasher safe. Glass and ceramic are two additional options available. You can see your drink through the glass, but it may show wear and tear more visibly than a steel version.
• Other stand mixer attachments: Some stand mixers may be purchased with additional attachments at an additional cost. This can include various mini-appliances, such as a jug blender, mini-chopper, grater, citrus press, grinder, mincer, and ice-cream maker.