The Difference Between Handheld and Stand Mixers

By Helen Zee

If you happen to love being in the kitchen, finding the right appliances is a definite must. Finding the best mixer is more than likely your first priority when searching. You must first decide what type of mixer you want to have. The choice between a handheld or a stand mixer is yours. Make your choice wisely and search around before buying.

I do want to point out that mixers and blenders are two different types of appliances and should not be confused. Blenders are used to cut up, blend, and liquefy food and drink items with the help of a sturdy, sharp blade. Mixers on the other hand do not use a blade at all instead use a variety of mixing tools depending on which you decide to purchase.

Handhelds are used more in kitchens that are small and have little counter space. They are also much cheaper than the stand mixers, which makes that a definite plus for those who are on a budget. Uses usually have to do with beating cake mixes, eggs or even mixing mash potatoes. Although they can perform many tasks, stand mixers perform much more.

Handheld mixers are also available at most available retail store in the appliance section. They come in many different colors and can either be battery operated or electric. They also usually have three set speeds, low, medium and high with no confusion for use in the kitchen. They also either come with one or two mixing tools that are always detachable and easy to clean.

Although handheld have limited capability. People who want to get in the kitchen and out of the kitchen fast will enjoy owning this particular style. The handheld is much easier to clean up since you just pop off the beaters and rinse. Another plus when buying this type is that you have the choice of how big or small the bowl you want to mix the ingredients in.

Stand mixers are used more in kitchens that have much more room on the counter, since they can be quite large and sometimes a bit awkward. The stand mixer can also get pretty pricey if you are going for a name brand such as KitchenAid. Cost of a sturdy, reliable stand mixer can range anywhere from $300 - $800 dollars. Most come with a standard mixing accessory as well as a standard dough hook for all your bread baking needs.

They also have many different speeds from 1 to 15 to use with many different variations of mixing. Older ones either have a push button or a dial to control the speed, however the newer ones such as KitchenAid come with a digital pad for mush easier use as well as control. You can even set a specific time on the newer ones so you do not have to stay in the kitchen the entire time waiting for the mix to be finished.

The KitchenAid comes usually with a 5 quart mixing bowl to begin with, other sizes are available for purchase if needed. Other accessories are available such as pasta pressers, meat grinders, and all sorts of paddles for your needs. They also come in a wide variety of colors such as red, green, blue, and stainless steel for those who just like simplicity..

Large department stores as well as online stores are the best place to find stand mixers, you will not find them in every retail store. Buying a new appliance should be like buying a new car. You should always do your research on exactly what kind of hand held or stand mixer you want to purchase. You should always compare prices as well as brands to get the one that will benefit you in your kitchen while you cook. They are an investment for avid cookers, be selective in the one you choose.

See our many styles, brands and colors of quality mixers all at affordable prices. And for all your kitchen needs from knives and cutlery to dinnerware go to Kitchenwareinc.com