KitchenAid
So, I am pondering a stand mixer. Most likely a KitchenAid. The question, of course, is what model?
KitchenAid® Ultra Power Plus Stand Mixer
With a 300-watt motor and 4 1/2-quart capacity bowl, this tilt-head stand mixer delivers the power to mix large batches of batter and heavy dough. Choose from slow stir speed and very fast whip and eight more speeds in between. The 67-point planetary mixing action mixes your dough or batter completely. Features a multipurpose attachment hub. Includes pouring shield, flat beater, wire whip and dough hook. Measures 13.9" H x 8.7" W x 14.1" D. One-year replacement warranty. UL listed. Model # KSM100PSWW $269.
KitchenAid® 5-Quart Artisan™ Stand Mixer
This attractively styled stand mixer is reason enough for you to get busy in the kitchen. With a powerful 325 watt motor, it can handle any task you put to it. The tilt-back head allows for easy access to whatever you're mixing and the 5-quart bowl features an ergonomic handle for comfort. The durable, all-metal construction is built to last. The unique mixing action reaches every part of the bowl. Five rubber feet protect countertop, while helping to stabilize the mixer. 10-speed control. Includes: flat beater, dough hook, wire whip, pouring shield and 5-quart, polished stainless steel bowl. UL listed. Hassle-free replacement warranty within the first year from purchase. Model # KSM150PS. $299.99
KitchenAid® Professional 5™ Plus Series 5-Quart Bowl Lift Stand Mixer
Mixer has the powerful ability to mix large batches of heavy batter and dough with its 450 watts of power, 10-speed controls, enhanced electronic sensor and Soft Start™ mixing feature. The 5-quart polished stainless steel bowl is ergonomically designed and has an ergonomic handle. Hub cover is hinged for additional attachments. Includes burnished flat beater, burnished PowerKnead™ dough hook and professional wire whip. One-year replacement warranty. UL listed. $319.99
KitchenAid Professional 610 Stand Mixer
No other KitchenAid stand mixer offers more power than our exclusive top-of-the-line model. It can easily handle commercial-size batches of batters and doughs. For optimal aeration when whipping eggs or cream, the mixer has a professional whip with 11 stainless-steel wires that operate 33% more quickly than typical whips. A convenient lift mechanism raises and lowers the bowl. Building on an American tradition that began in 1919, this classic appliance is hand assembled in Greenville, Ohio.
- 6-qt.-cap. bowl, made of two-tone stainless steel and fitted with an ergonomic handle.
- Includes a flat beater, dough hook, wire whip and clear plastic pouring shield.
- 590W, 14 1/2" x 11 1/2" x 16 1/2" high.
- Made in the USA.
- A Williams-Sonoma exclusive. $399.95
(Williams-Sonoma has a specia deal where you get the grinder or slicer attachment free with KA purchase within the next month or so, fwiw)
How much power/bowl-capacity do I really need? I like making whole grain breads and, so far, have done all of my mixing and kneading by hand. Will having a KA really make THAT much of a difference in my life/baking to make it worth it? I admit, I've seen some recipes that call for 30 mins of kneading that have put me off as I don't have a mixer.