Straight to the Point:
The KitchenAid Artisan Series Stand Mixer remains a top choice for home bakers. It stands out for its consistent mixing, sturdy construction, and wide range of attachments.
The 325-watt motor and 10-speed control handle most baking tasks, from whipping cream to kneading bread dough. The tilt-head design makes it easy to add ingredients and change attachments.
With 46 color options, it fits any kitchen style. The mixer’s 5-quart stainless steel bowl is large enough for double batches of cookies or bread.
Its weight keeps it stable during use, but it can be heavy to move. This mixer is ideal for frequent bakers who want reliability, versatility, and a machine that will last for years.
KitchenAid Artisan Stand Mixer Overview
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The KitchenAid Artisan 5-Quart Tilt-Head Stand Mixer is a countertop appliance designed for mixing, kneading, and whipping.
It features a tilt-head mechanism for easy access to the bowl and beaters. Its power hub allows various optional attachments, such as pasta rollers, food grinders, and ice cream makers.
The mixer comes standard with a flat beater, dough hook, wire whip, and a pouring shield to minimize mess.
Technical Specifications
- Model: KSM150PS
- Dimensions: 14.1″ D x 8.7″ W x 13.9″ H
- Weight: 19.4 lbs
- Bowl Capacity: 5 quarts (stainless steel, with handle)
- Motor Power: 325 watts
- Speeds: 10, with slide control
- Voltage: 120V
- Cord Length: 36 inches
- Materials: Zinc body, stainless steel bowl, coated attachments
- Color Options: 46, including Contour Silver, Empire Red, Pistachio
- Warranty: 1 year limited
Included Accessories:
- Flat beater (coated)
- Dough hook (coated)
- 6-wire whip (stainless steel)
- Pouring shield
The mixer’s planetary mixing action ensures ingredients are thoroughly incorporated, reducing the need for manual scraping.
Design & Build Quality
Tilt-Head Mechanism
The tilt-head design lets users lift the mixer head to easily access the bowl and attachments. This makes adding ingredients and swapping beaters straightforward. The head locks securely during operation, preventing wobbling even at high speeds.
Materials & Construction
- Body: Zinc alloy for durability and stability.
- Gears: All-metal for longevity; no plastic parts in the drive train.
- Attachments: Coated for easy cleaning and food safety.
The mixer’s smooth, rounded body is easy to wipe clean. The stainless steel bowl is dishwasher-safe, as are the coated attachments. The wire whip should be hand-washed to maintain its shape.
Color Options & Aesthetic
With 46 finishes, users can select a mixer that matches their kitchen. Matte finishes hide fingerprints better than glossy ones. The mixer’s classic silhouette and color choices make it a permanent countertop fixture for many users.
Features & Innovations
- 10-Speed Control: Allows precision for delicate whipping or heavy dough mixing.
- Power Hub: Accepts over 10 attachments, including pasta rollers, food grinders, and ice cream makers.
- Pouring Shield: Helps add ingredients without splashing.
- Planetary Mixing Action: Ensures thorough ingredient incorporation.
- Stainless Steel Bowl with Handle: Comfortable to grip and easy to remove.
- Wide Accessory Compatibility: Works with a range of KitchenAid stand mixer attachments.
Performance Testing
Testing Methodology
We tested the KitchenAid Artisan mixer on four common recipes:
- Whipped cream (speed 10)
- Chocolate chip cookies (speed 4)
- Pizza dough (speed 2, dough hook)
- Vanilla cake batter (speed 6)
The noise was measured with a decibel meter 6 inches from the unit. Mixing times and consistency were recorded for each task.
Observations & Results
| Task | Time | Noise | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| Whipped Cream | 1:23 | 77dB | Stiff peaks, no graininess |
| Cookie Dough | 4:10 | 72dB | Even mix, minimal scraping needed |
| Pizza Dough | 10:00 | 68dB | Smooth, elastic, no overheating |
| Cake Batter | 3:45 | 70dB | Uniform, slight flour at bowl rim |
The mixer performed well in all tests. It handled dense cookie and bread doughs without stalling. The planetary action left little unmixed residue. Only very sticky doughs required occasional bowl scraping.
User Experience & Practical Use
Controls & Usability
The speed lever transitions smoothly, allowing users to shift from slow stirring to fast whipping. The tilt-head unlocks with a side lever, making adding ingredients or changing attachments easy. The bowl handle provides a secure grip for lifting and pouring.
Cleaning & Maintenance
- Bowl and Attachments: Dishwasher-safe (except wire whip, which should be hand-washed).
- Mixer Body: Wipe with a damp cloth; avoid abrasives.
The mixer’s smooth surfaces and detachable bowl make cleaning simple. Most users find maintenance quick and easy.
Storage
At 19.4 lbs, the mixer is heavy. Most users keep it on the countertop. It fits under standard cabinets (15″ clearance). A silicone mat can help prevent sliding during use.
KitchenAid Artisan Stand Mixer Alternatives
| Feature | Artisan 5-Quart Tilt-Head | Professional 5/6-Quart Bowl-Lift |
|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 5 quarts | 5 or 6 quarts |
| Motor | 325 watts | 525-575 watts |
| Best For | Cakes, cookies, bread | Large batches, heavy doughs |
| Price Range | $399-$449 | $499-$599 |
| Design | Tilt-head | Bowl-lift |
FeatureArtisan 5-Quart Tilt-HeadProfessional 5/6-
Bowl-lift models offer more power and capacity, ideal for frequent breadbakers or large families. The tilt-head Artisan is easier for most users to operate and clean.
Cuisinart Precision Master (Budget Option)
- 5.5-quart bowl, 500 watts, 12 speeds
- Lighter and more affordable than KitchenAid
- Good performance, but plastic gears and less durable construction
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Durable metal construction
- Stable during use
- Consistent mixing results
- Wide range of colors
- Compatible with many attachments
- Quiet operation for its power
Cons:
- Heavy to move
- Short 1-year warranty
- Minor flour residue may remain at the bowl edge
- The price is higher than some alternatives
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can the Artisan knead whole-wheat bread dough?
Yes, but add water gradually. For 100% whole wheat, mix in short intervals to avoid straining the motor.
Are aftermarket bowls compatible?
Use only KitchenAid 5-quart bowls for best fit and performance.
How long does the mixer last?
With regular care, expect 10-15 years of use. Grease the gears every 5 years for optimal performance.
Are attachments dishwasher-safe?
The flat beater and dough hook are dishwasher-safe. Hand-wash the wire whip.
How loud is the mixer?
Noise ranges from 68-77dB, quieter than most stand mixers in its class.
How We Tested
Testing included 30 hours of use across baking and mixing tasks. We measured:
- Mixing time for each recipe
- Noise output at various speeds
- Consistency of batter and dough
- Ease of changing attachments
- Cleaning effort
Tests involved single and double batches, switching attachments, and using the mixer for extended periods to check for overheating or mechanical issues.
➡How We Pick Products and Services
Final Verdict
The KitchenAid Artisan 5-Quart Tilt-Head Stand Mixer is a reliable choice for home bakers who need consistent results and a lasting machine. It easily handles most baking tasks, from whipping cream to kneading bread dough. Its durable construction, a wide range of attachments, and attractive design make it a solid investment for any kitchen.
Who should buy it:
- Home bakers who bake 1-3 times weekly
- Users who want a mixer that looks good on the countertop
- Those needing versatility for cakes, cookies, bread, and more
Who should consider alternatives:
- Users who bake large batches or heavy doughs regularly (consider a bowl-lift model)
- Those with limited counter space (consider a lighter or mini model)
- Budget shoppers (Cuisinart Precision Master offers good value)
The KitchenAid Artisan remains the gold standard for stand mixers. It balances power, ease of use, and style. For most home kitchens, it is the best all-around choice.
Where to Buy
KitchenAid Artisan image Gallery
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Price History
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Engr. Hm Jamal is the creator of Kitchen Depot, a Kitchen Appliances expert and water treatment specialist. An electrical engineer by trade, he's a thinker, problem solver, and innovation enthusiast.
