Comparison: Best Stand Mixer Cheap (Updated | Dec 9th)

Cheaper mixers typically have less powerful motors, lower capacities, and are made with more plastic components. Premium models offer more durability, higher wattage for heavy doughs, and often come with more included attachments. The main trade-off is long-term performance and versatility versus a lower initial cost.

Not necessarily, but it’s important to match the motor to your intended use. For basic tasks like whipping cream, mixing cake batter, or kneading occasional light bread dough, a lower wattage motor is often sufficient. If you plan on frequently mixing dense, whole-grain breads, a more powerful motor will prevent the machine from straining and ensure better results.

Bowl capacity is crucial and should be based on the size of your household and what you bake. A 4.5-quart bowl is great for small batches and everyday recipes, while larger families might need a 5 or 6-quart bowl. A smaller bowl on a cheap mixer is fine, but be aware it limits the maximum batch size you can make.

Prioritize a model with multiple speed settings, which provides flexibility for different recipes from gentle folding to high-speed whipping. Planetary mixing action, where the attachment spins in one direction while the mixer rotates in the other, is a key feature for thorough, even mixing. Finally, check for a tilt-head design, which is common on affordable models and makes accessing the bowl much easier.

Many budget mixers can handle bread dough, but with limitations. They are best suited for standard, softer bread recipes rather than very dense or high-hydration doughs. To avoid straining the motor, knead in smaller batches and don’t mix for longer than the recipe specifies.

Most budget stand mixers come with the essential three attachments: a flat beater, a dough hook, and a wire whisk. While they may not have the wide range of optional attachments available for premium brands, you can often find compatible third-party accessories. Check the mixer’s brand and design to see what attachments are available for purchase separately.

Look for mixers from reputable kitchen appliance brands that offer a good warranty, as this indicates confidence in their product’s durability. Reading user reviews can provide real-world insight into a model’s performance and longevity. Sometimes, a slightly more expensive but well-regarded brand offers better long-term value than the absolute cheapest option.