Hand Mixers
Best Hand Mixers for Every Baker
5 picks compared
8 min read
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The short answerThe KitchenAid 9-Speed Hand Mixer is our top pick for its powerful motor, 9 speeds, and versatile attachments. It handles everything from light batters to heavy doughs with ease.
?How we pickedWe compare published specifications, safety certifications and thousands of verified owner reviews, and we do not physically test every unit. Read the full process in our review methodology.
KitchenAid 9-Speed Hand Mixer
★★★★★ 4.7 / 5 Best overall
Powerful 9-speed motor with soft start to prevent splatter. Includes stainless steel beaters, dough hooks, and a whisk. Comes with a 4.5-quart mixing bowl.
Speeds 9Watts 250Weight 3.5 lbsAttachments Beaters, dough hooks, whisk, bowl
- Wide speed range for precise control
- Soft start prevents mess
- Includes mixing bowl
- Heavier than some models
- Dough hooks can be tricky to insert
Best for: All-purpose baking, from cakes to cookies to bread dough
Buy it if: Home bakers who want a reliable, powerful mixer for frequent use
Skip it if: Those who need a lightweight, compact mixer for occasional use
Alternative to consider: Breville Handy Mix Scraper
Breville Handy Mix Scraper
★★★★★ 4.6 / 5 Smart design
Unique scraper beater that mixes and folds simultaneously. 5 speeds with a smooth variable dial. Includes beaters, dough hooks, and whisk.
Speeds 5 (variable)Watts 240Weight 3.2 lbsAttachments Scraper beaters, dough hooks, whisk
- Scraper beater reduces bowl scraping
- Quiet operation
- Ergonomic handle
- Only 5 speeds
- No included bowl
Best for: Batters that need gentle folding, like cake or muffin batter
Buy it if: Bakers who want less mess and easier cleanup
Skip it if: Those who need high-speed whipping or heavy dough mixing
Alternative to consider: KitchenAid 9-Speed Hand Mixer
Cuisinart Power Advantage Plus 7-Speed Hand Mixer
★★★★★ 4.5 / 5 Great value
220-watt motor with 7 speeds and auto-reheat feature. Includes beaters, dough hooks, and whisk. Comes with a storage case.
Speeds 7Watts 220Weight 2.8 lbsAttachments Beaters, dough hooks, whisk, storage case
- Auto-reheat prevents overheating
- Smooth speed control
- Compact storage case
- Not as powerful for heavy dough
- Whisk can be flimsy
Best for: Everyday mixing of cakes, cookies, and light doughs
Buy it if: Budget-conscious bakers who want reliable performance
Skip it if: Those who frequently make heavy bread dough
Alternative to consider: Hamilton Beach 6-Speed Hand Mixer
Hamilton Beach 6-Speed Hand Mixer with Snap-On Case
★★★★★ 4.4 / 5 Best budget
Affordable 6-speed mixer with snap-on storage case that holds beaters. 250 watts of power for basic mixing tasks.
Speeds 6Watts 250Weight 2.5 lbsAttachments Beaters, dough hooks, storage case
- Very affordable
- Snap-on case keeps everything together
- Lightweight
- Less durable than premium brands
- No whisk attachment
Best for: Occasional baking and simple mixing tasks
Buy it if: New bakers or those on a tight budget
Skip it if: Heavy users who need more power and attachments
Alternative to consider: Cuisinart Power Advantage Plus
KitchenAid 5-Speed Ultra Power Hand Mixer
★★★★★ 4.3 / 5 Light duty
Entry-level KitchenAid with 5 speeds and turbo boost. Stainless steel beaters and dough hooks included. Lightweight at 2.3 lbs.
Speeds 5Watts 200Weight 2.3 lbsAttachments Beaters, dough hooks
- Lightweight and easy to handle
- Turbo boost for extra power
- Trusted brand
- Only 5 speeds
- Not ideal for heavy dough
Best for: Light mixing like eggs, frosting, and thin batters
Buy it if: Bakers who want a KitchenAid but don't need high power
Skip it if: Those who mix heavy dough or large batches
Alternative to consider: KitchenAid 9-Speed Hand Mixer
Choosing the right hand mixer can make or break your baking experience. Our editorial team compared specifications, buyer feedback and key decision factors to bring you the best hand mixers of 2024. From powerful KitchenAid models to budget-friendly Hamilton Beach options, we cover everything you need to know.
Buying Guide: What to Look for in a Hand Mixer
When shopping for a hand mixer, consider these factors:
- Power (Watts): Higher wattage means better performance with thick dough. Look for 200W+ for general use, 250W+ for heavy mixing.
- Speed Settings: More speeds give better control. 5-7 speeds are standard; 9 speeds offer fine-tuning.
- Attachments: Most include beaters and dough hooks. A whisk is useful for whipping cream or egg whites. Some models include a mixing bowl.
- Weight and Ergonomics: A lightweight mixer reduces fatigue. Ergonomic handles and soft grips improve comfort.
- Storage: Some models come with a storage case or snap-on cover to keep attachments organized.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many buyers overlook the importance of wattage and speed range. A low-wattage mixer may struggle with cookie dough. Also, check that the attachments are dishwasher-safe for easy cleanup. Avoid models with non-removable cords or poorly designed beaters that don't reach the bottom of your bowl.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I clean a hand mixer? Unplug and wipe the body with a damp cloth. Attachments are usually dishwasher-safe or can be washed by hand.
- Can I use a hand mixer for heavy bread dough? It's possible for small batches, but a stand mixer or food processor is better for heavy dough to avoid burning out the motor.
- What is the best hand mixer for beginners? The Hamilton Beach 6-Speed is affordable and easy to use, making it great for beginners.
Check the current price on Amazon for each model to find the best deal.
Questions people ask
What wattage is best for a hand mixer?
For most home baking, 200 to 250 watts is sufficient. Higher wattage (250+) handles heavy dough better, but for light batters, 200 watts works fine.
Can a hand mixer knead dough?
Yes, most hand mixers come with dough hooks and can knead small batches of dough. However, for frequent or large batches, a stand mixer is better.
How many speeds do I need?
5 to 7 speeds cover most tasks. Lower speeds for folding and mixing, higher for whipping. 9 speeds offer more precision but aren't necessary for everyone.
Are hand mixers with a bowl included worth it?
Yes, if you don't have a suitable mixing bowl. A included bowl ensures the beaters reach the bottom properly and reduces splatter.
The bottom lineSo which one?
The KitchenAid 9-Speed Hand Mixer is the best overall for its power, speed range, and included bowl. For a smarter design, choose the Breville Handy Mix Scraper. Budget buyers will love the Hamilton Beach 6-Speed. Pick the one that fits your baking style.
