The Fresh Loaf

A Community of Amateur Bakers and Artisan Bread Enthusiasts.

KitchenAid 8 Quart Commercial Mixer or Globe SP5?

KLSinCT's picture
KLSinCT

KitchenAid 8 Quart Commercial Mixer or Globe SP5?

Greetings All!

I did a forum search on this topic and only came up with old posts that haven't been updated in years, so perhaps other members here can offer some updated feedback regarding these two mixers. I'm torn between the KitchenAid Commercial and the Globe SP5 mixers for home use. I bake primarily high-hydration artisan breads (70%+) in double batches along with lighter fare, so my main concern is the long term durability of the machine rather than capacity as I rarely bake more than a double batch of anything in one go. I'm leaning towards the KA given that it's certified for commercial use and the available attachments (I like to make fresh semolina pasta as well), but am a bit put off by the bad reviews and declining quality of KA products since Whirlpool took over the brand, so in theory the Globe SP5 seems like a good alternative. However, the lack of user reviews for the SP5 also gives me pause to consider it as a good investment for long term use.

Any feedback or suggestions would be greatly appreciated!

Cheers!

K.

loafette's picture
loafette

I just got one, earlier this month, for the small bakery I work at. I was using primarily my KA 6 quart, in addition to a 'heavy-duty' KA 5 quart, for everyday mixing. Most of what I do involves muffins, cakes, cookies, but I also make our own cinnamon rolls, and a few breads. For very large batches we have a 20 quart Hobart. I LOVE the new 8 quart! I've had my 6 quart since they were available, so it's almost 15 years old, and have never had a problem with it. The new larger one is a good in between size, and enables me to make triple batches of our muffin batter, Texas-sized ones. The dough hook is the 'power knead' type, and does a wonderful job...I also have that type for my 6 quart. At home, I have two Ankarsrums, for bread mixing, just didn't feel like carting them into work...lol!  The new mixer also accepts my 6 quart bowls, and attachments, so I can pretty much work non-stop, without having to 'clean up', in between, too. It's also super quiet. I ordered mine from Webrestaurantstore.com, and got such a good discount on it, that I was able to order a second bowl, and paddle blade, and even with shipping cost, it was a fantastic deal. Well, that's my opinion! I hope that whatever you decide upon, it serves you well ;0))

Laura