It’s baking season (or perhaps just a regular Tuesday for avid bakers!), and a good stand mixer is a cornerstone of any well-equipped kitchen. Whether you’re whipping up a delicate meringue, kneading a hefty sourdough, or creaming butter for a show-stopping cake, the right stand mixer can make all the difference.
We’ve scoured Amazon UK to bring you the 4 best-selling stand mixers this month, offering a mix of popular brands and features to suit various needs and budgets.
1. KitchenAid Artisan 4.8 Litre Stand Mixer (Empire Red)
Description: The iconic KitchenAid Artisan is a favourite among home bakers and professionals alike. Renowned for its classic design, robust build, and powerful planetary mixing action, it’s a versatile workhorse available in a dazzling array of colours to match any kitchen aesthetic. This particular model comes in a vibrant Empire Red.
Pros:
- Iconic Design & Colour Range: A true kitchen statement piece.
- Durable Build: Made with die-cast metal, built to last for years.
- Planetary Mixing Action: Ensures thorough and even mixing, reaching all parts of the bowl.
- Versatile: Excellent for cakes, batters, dough, and whipping.
- Wide Range of Attachments Available: Expands its functionality (though often sold separately).
- Stable: Stays put on the counter even with heavy dough.
Cons:
- Pricey: A significant investment compared to other mixers.
- Heavy: Can be cumbersome to move if not kept on the countertop.
- Motor Wattage: While effective, some users find the 300W motor less powerful than higher-wattage alternatives for very stiff doughs (though its direct drive system often makes up for this).
- Some attachments not dishwasher safe: Requires handwashing for certain parts.
2. Kenwood Chef XL KVL4100S Stand Mixer (Silver)
Description: The Kenwood Chef XL is a powerful and reliable stand mixer designed for serious bakers. With a large 6.7L bowl and a robust 1200W motor, it’s built to handle larger quantities and tougher doughs with ease. It comes with Kenwood’s signature K-beater, whisk, and dough hook.
Pros:
- Powerful Motor: 1200W motor tackles heavy doughs and large batches effortlessly.
- Large Capacity: 6.7L bowl is ideal for families or those who bake frequently.
- Durable Build: Praised for its robust construction and longevity.
- Versatile: Excellent for a wide range of baking tasks.
- Variable Speed Settings: Offers precise control over mixing.
- Wide Range of Attachments Available: Kenwood offers a vast selection of additional attachments for various culinary tasks.
Cons:
- Large Footprint: Takes up considerable counter space due to its size.
- Heavier: Can be challenging to move around.
- Price: Another premium option, though often seen as good value for its power and capacity.
3. Bosch Serie 4 MUM59340GB Stand Mixer (Anthracite)
Description: The Bosch MUM5 series is lauded for its versatility and integrated features. This model boasts a 1000W motor, a 3.9L stainless steel bowl, and unique 3D Planetary Mixing for thorough results. It often comes with a comprehensive patisserie set and a range of optional accessories to expand its functionality beyond just mixing.
Pros:
- Powerful Motor: 1000W motor handles various tasks efficiently.
- 3D Planetary Mixing: Ensures all ingredients are well-incorporated.
- Integrated Features: Some models include integrated scales and timers for added convenience.
- Comprehensive Attachments: Often comes with a good range of standard and optional attachments.
- Dishwasher Safe Parts: Many accessories are dishwasher safe, making cleanup easier.
- Modern Design: Sleek and contemporary look.
Cons:
- Smaller Bowl Capacity: 3.9L might be limiting for very large batches compared to the Kenwood Chef XL.
- Can be bulky with all attachments: While the mixer itself might be lighter, storing all the accessories can be a challenge.
- Mixed reviews on kneading heavy dough: While capable, some users found it took longer for very stiff doughs compared to more powerful dedicated dough mixers.
- Fingerprint magnet: Stainless steel and chrome parts can easily show fingerprints.
4. Morphy Richards MixStar Compact Stand Mixer (Grey)
Description: The Morphy Richards MixStar offers a unique, compact design that prioritizes space-saving and easy storage. Unlike traditional tilt-head mixers, it features an open-top design and stores all attachments within the bowl itself. With a 650W motor and dual-rotational mechanism, it aims to provide efficient mixing for everyday baking.
Pros:
- Compact & Space-Saving: All accessories store neatly within the bowl.
- Unique Open-Top Design: Easy to add ingredients and change attachments.
- Dual-Rotational Mechanism: Aims for efficient and thorough mixing.
- Lightweight: Easier to move and store if you don’t have permanent counter space.
- Dishwasher Safe Bowl: Simplifies cleanup.
- Affordable: A more budget-friendly option compared to premium brands.
Cons:
- Noise Level: Users frequently report it can be quite noisy during operation.
- Less Powerful Motor: 650W might struggle with very heavy or large doughs.
- Less traditional aesthetic: The design is functional but might not appeal to those seeking a classic stand mixer look.
- No tilt-head: While praised for its open-top, some prefer the tilt-head mechanism for access.
Stand Mixer Feature Comparison Table
| Feature | KitchenAid Artisan 4.8L | Kenwood Chef XL KVL4100S | Bosch Serie 4 MUM59340GB | Morphy Richards MixStar Compact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Motor Wattage | 300W (direct drive) | 1200W | 1000W | 650W |
| Bowl Capacity | 4.8 Litres | 6.7 Litres | 3.9 Litres | (Bowl holds attachments) |
| Mixing Action | Planetary Mixing | Planetary Mixing | 3D Planetary Mixing | Dual-Rotational |
| Tilt-Head/Design | Tilt-head | Tilt-head | Tilt-head | Open-top with internal storage |
| Primary Material | Die-cast metal | Metal/Plastic | Plastic/Stainless Steel | Plastic |
| Included Attachments | Dough Hook, Flat Beater, Wire Whisk | K-beater, Whisk, Dough Hook | Whisk, Stirrer, Kneading Hook (Patisserie set) | 2 Beaters, 2 Whisks, Dual Dough Hook |
| Dishwasher Safe Parts | Bowl (some attachments handwash) | Bowl, most attachments | Most attachments and bowl | Bowl, attachments |
| Approx. Price Range (Amazon UK) | £350 – £500+ | £200 – £400+ | £200 – £300+ | £60 – £100+ |
Short Summary
Choosing the best stand mixer depends heavily on your baking habits and kitchen space.
If you’re a serious baker who tackles large batches and heavy doughs regularly, the Kenwood Chef XL offers unparalleled power and capacity. For those who value iconic design, robust build, and a wide array of optional attachments, the KitchenAid Artisan remains a timeless classic, perfect for a wide range of tasks. The Bosch Serie 4 MUM59340GB is a fantastic all-rounder, offering good power, comprehensive attachments, and smart features, ideal for varied culinary adventures. Finally, if space is a premium and you’re a more casual baker looking for a convenient and affordable option, the Morphy Richards MixStar shines with its compact design and integrated storage.
No matter your choice, investing in a good stand mixer will undoubtedly elevate your baking game and make your time in the kitchen more enjoyable! Happy baking!