Making delicious treats like cookies or savory sides like mashed potatoes can be exhausting when mixing by hand. A stand mixer is a useful tool, but it can be expensive and take up a lot of storage space. That’s where an electric hand mixer comes in handy. It can effortlessly create your favorite recipes, is much more affordable than a stand mixer, and takes up minimal space.
Our Top Picks: Hand Mixers
- BEST OVERALL HAND MIXER: Breville Handy Mix Scraper
- BEST OVERALL: Cuisinart Power Advantage Plus Hand Mixer at Amazon
- BEST HAND MIXER FOR BAKING: Braun MultiMix 5 Hand Mixer
- BEST SPLURGE: Smeg 50’s Retro Style Electric Hand Mixer at Amazon
- BEST CORDLESS: KitchenAid Cordless Hand Mixer at Amazon
Table of Contents
Top 7 Best Hand Mixers of 2024
1. Breville Handy Mix Scraper
Price: $149.95
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Top-notch Performance | |
Nine-Speed Capabilit | Pricey |
Silicone-Coated Beate | |
Convenient Storage |
Breville’s hand mixer stood out in our testing, earning top scores for its exceptional performance in tasks like whipping egg whites, beating cake batter, mixing oatmeal cookie dough, and kneading bread dough. With its nine-speed capability, this model is smart enough to recognize the attachment you’ve inserted—whether it’s beaters, dough hooks, or whisks—and automatically adjusts the speed accordingly. This means it adapts seamlessly to the task at hand, whether it’s the heavier work of kneading dough or the lighter task of whipping cream.
The beaters are coated with silicone to prevent scratches on cookware and reduce the noisy clanking that can occur when beaters hit the sides of the bowl. Additionally, it features a built-in timer and a handy light that illuminates during the mixing process, making it easier for you to see inside the bowl and ensure thorough incorporation of ingredients. The inclusion of a storage case for attachments adds convenience to keep everything organized. While it may be a bit on the pricey side, we believe the extra features and attachments justify the investment.
2. Cuisinart Power Advantage Plus Hand Mixer
Price: $59.90
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Powerful Motor | |
Comfortable Grip Design | Loud Operation at Top Speeds: |
Swiveling Power Cord | |
Clip-On Storage Case |
This Cuisinart hand mixer has all the features you need, and some extra ones that we really like. The strong motor has an easy one-touch control for adjusting speed among nine settings while you’re using the mixer. The storage case is handy, clipping onto the mixer and holding the power cord and all the mixing parts, including a plastic spatula.
The design of this hand mixer played a big role in why we love it! The handle is curved like a knife handle, giving a comfortable and steady grip even when you’re using it with one hand. Instead of a button on top to release the beaters, there’s a latch inside the handle, making it less likely to accidentally press. The power cord is smartly designed to swivel left or right, and it locks in place, staying out of the way while you’re mixing—good for both left and right-handed users.
In our tests, the Cuisinart Power Advantage Plus handled everything from mixing dry ingredients and whipping cream to dealing with thick cookie and bread doughs. It offers nine speeds, more than many other hand mixers. We weren’t sure if so many speeds were necessary until we tried them. The extra two speeds make changing speeds easy, and the SmoothStart feature prevents ingredients from splattering when you turn the mixer on. It’s a bit louder at top speeds compared to other models, but it didn’t struggle with overheating or shaking.
Material: Chrome Plated | Number of Speeds:9 | Voltage: 220 Volts | Wattage: 220 watts
3. Braun MultiMix 5 Hand Mixer
Price: $67
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Powerful Performance | |
Easy Cleanup | noisier |
One-Handed Vario Control | |
Comfortable Control |
This hand mixer is super powerful with 50% more power at 350 watts, beating both the ingredients and other mixers out there. We checked the wattage and how much effort it takes to mix things, like cake batter, by comparing it to top competitors. The smartmix technology is cool – it has a special motor design that puts the weight of the mixer into the bowl, not your hand. This means you only need half the effort to mix things up, and we confirmed this in tests, especially when mixing cake batter compared to other top brands.
Cleaning up is a breeze because of the easy clean design. It’s completely sealed, so nothing can get inside the mixer, and the parts are safe to go in the dishwasher. You can control this mixer with just one hand using the vario control. Turn the speed dial to adjust how fast you’re mixing, and a button lets you switch between accessories easily.
For all your cooking tasks, this mixer comes with different attachments. The multi-whisk does both beating and whisking in one, giving you light and airy mixtures. And if you’re into making bread and pizza, the sturdy dough hooks are perfect. It’s comfortable to use too, with a soft and ergonomic grip. Holding onto this mixer feels super nice and easy.
Material: Plastic | Number of Speeds:9 | Voltage: 220 Volts | Wattage: 330 watts
4. Smeg 50’s Retro Style Electric Hand Mixer
Price: $179.95
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Attractive Design | |
Textured, Slip-Free Grip | Expensive |
Easy-to-Use Speeds | |
Built-in Timer |
Smeg’s hand mixer not only boasts an attractive design but also surprised us with its remarkable functionality and power. The handle features a textured, rubberized grip, ensuring a slip-free experience, even with wet or greasy ingredients. The user-friendly speeds and the inclusion of a built-in timer in the handle add to its practicality. Despite its strength, the mixer maintains a controlled and manageable feel, especially when tackling challenging ingredients.
In summary, this hand mixer is an excellent choice for serious home bakers seeking a high-quality and efficient appliance. While it comes with a higher price tag, being the most expensive on our list, it successfully passed all our tests. The additional attachments, including two wire whisks, two beaters, and two dough hooks, contribute to its versatility, making it a reliable tool for various kitchen tasks.
Material: Stainless Steel, Plastic | Number of Speeds:9 | Voltage: 120 Volts | Wattage:220 watts
5. KitchenAid Cordless Hand Mixer
Price: $99.99
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Cordless Convenience | |
Stable Base | Less Powerful Motor |
Comfortable and Easy to Use | |
Smooth and Quiet Motor |
The KitchenAid cordless hand mixer is a convenient and efficient option for home bakers, offering portability, stability, and user-friendly features. I recently had the opportunity to test the KitchenAid Cordless Hand Mixer, and it proved to be a standout choice for those seeking convenience in the kitchen. The design is nice and simple, and you can easily switch between the seven speeds with just one hand. The base is solid, so you can put the mixer down without it tipping over.
The mixer is comfortable to hold and use, making it suitable for extended periods of mixing. The motor operated smoothly and quietly, even when dealing with challenging ingredients. This is a significant advantage for those who value a quieter kitchen environment.The mixer comes with two beaters that you can toss in the dishwasher for easy cleaning and storage. It’s a good choice for home bakers who want a more efficient gadget in their kitchen.
But, even though the motor is strong, it’s not as powerful as some others we tested. In our whipped cream test, it took longer to get stiff peaks compared to some others. However, the benefits of being cordless make it a great choice overall.
Material: Stainless Steel | Number of Speeds: 7 | Voltage: 120 Volts | Item Weight: 2.09 Pounds
6. LILPARTNER Hand Mixer Electric
Price: $38.77
Brand | LILPARTNER |
Color | WHITE |
Product Dimensions | 7.48″D x 3.15″W x 5.71″H |
Blade Material | Stainless Steel |
Special Feature | Dishwasher Safe Jars |
Pros:
- Powerful Performance
- Convenient Storage
- Corded Design
- Dishwasher Safe
Cons:
- Limited Color Options
Elevate your kitchen experience with the LILPARTNER Hand Mixer Electric. This 400W powerhouse offers 5-speed settings for versatile mixing, accompanied by 5 stainless steel accessories. Conveniently store your mixer and accessories in the provided storage box. Perfect for whipping up cream, cookies, and more, this handheld mixer comes with a cord for easy maneuvering. Cleanup is a breeze as it is dishwasher safe. Upgrade your culinary adventures with the LILPARTNER Hand Mixer for efficient and delightful food preparation.
Material: Stainless Steel | Number of Speeds: 5 | Voltage: 120 Volts |Wattage: 400 watts
7. Hamilton Beach Professional Electric Hand Mixer
Price: $29.99
Brand | Hamilton Beach Professional |
Color | Mint |
Product Dimensions | 8.7″D x 3.2″W x 10.1″H |
Blade Material | Stainless Steel |
Special Feature | Manual |
Pros:
- Powerful Mixing
- Professional-Grade Design
- Snap-On Storage Case
- Variable Speed Control
Cons:
- Limited Cord Length
I recently tried the Hamilton Beach Professional 5-Speed Electric Hand Mixer with Snap-On Storage Case, and I’m impressed! The DC motor delivers powerful and effortless mixing, making my kitchen tasks much easier. The professional-grade design is noticeable, featuring a lighter motor and an ergonomic design for comfortable use.
The slow starting speed is a game-changer, preventing messy splatters when baking. It’s great to have that initial slow speed for careful mixing. The snap-on storage case is a neat addition, keeping the beaters and whisk organized in one place. Plus, the stainless steel attachments are dishwasher-safe, making cleanup a breeze.
With 5 speeds and Quick Burst at every level, I have more control over my mixing. The swivel cord is a thoughtful touch, allowing for both right and left-handed use. The cord easily adjusts and locks into place to stay out of my way while I work. Overall, a fantastic hand mixer that makes my kitchen adventures even more enjoyable!
Material: Stainless Steel | Number of Speeds: 5 | Voltage: 120 Volts |Item Weight: 2.8 Pounds
What to Look for When Buying a Hand Mixer
Buying a hand mixer can be a game-changer in the kitchen, simplifying various tasks from whipping cream to blending batter. However, with a multitude of options available in the market, choosing the right hand mixer requires careful consideration. Here’s a comprehensive guide on what to look for when buying a hand mixer.
1. Power and Motor Performance
The power of a hand mixer is a crucial factor in determining its efficiency. Hand mixers typically range from 200 to 250 watts for basic models and can go up to 400 to 600 watts for more powerful ones. Consider the types of tasks you’ll be using the mixer for; heavier tasks like kneading dough may require a more powerful motor.
2. Speed Settings
Look for a hand mixer with multiple speed settings to provide versatility in handling different ingredients. Most models come with at least three-speed options, allowing you to start slow for delicate tasks like mixing flour and gradually increase speed for whipping cream or egg whites.
3. Design and Ergonomics
The design and ergonomics of a hand mixer play a significant role in comfort during use. Opt for a model with an ergonomic handle design that fits comfortably in your hand, reducing strain during prolonged use. Some mixers also come with a slight tilt in the handle for a more natural grip.
4. Weight
Consider the weight of the hand mixer, especially if you plan on using it for extended periods. A lightweight model is generally more user-friendly, making it easier to control and maneuver.
5. Attachments
Check the attachments that come with the hand mixer. Most hand mixers include beaters, but some models also come with additional attachments like dough hooks and whisks. Having a variety of attachments enhances the mixer’s versatility, allowing you to tackle a broader range of recipes.
6. Material and Durability
Choose a hand mixer made from durable materials, typically high-quality plastic or metal. Stainless steel beaters are preferred for their strength and resistance to rust. A durable hand mixer ensures a longer lifespan and reliable performance.
7. Cord Length and Storage
Consider the length of the cord, especially if your kitchen lacks convenient power outlets. Additionally, some hand mixers come with retractable cords or cord storage features, contributing to neatness and easy storage.
8. Easy to Clean
Cleaning a hand mixer should be hassle-free. Look for models with detachable beaters and attachments that are dishwasher safe. This feature significantly simplifies cleanup after use.
9. Brand Reputation and Reviews
Research the reputation of the brand before making a purchase. Read user reviews and testimonials to gain insights into the experiences of other customers. A reputable brand often indicates a commitment to quality and customer satisfaction.
10. Budget
Set a reasonable budget for your hand mixer purchase. While there are high-end models with advanced features, there are also reliable and efficient hand mixers available at more affordable price points. Consider your specific needs and find the best balance between features and cost.
Conclusion
Selecting the best hand mixer involves a thoughtful assessment of your cooking and baking requirements. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced home chef, finding a hand mixer that aligns with your preferences in terms of power, speed settings, design, attachments, and budget is key to enhancing your kitchen efficiency and culinary creations. By keeping these considerations in mind, you’ll be well-equipped to choose a hand mixer that becomes an indispensable tool in your kitchen.
FAQs
Q1: What is the purpose of a hand mixer?
A1: A hand mixer is a kitchen appliance designed for mixing, beating, and whipping ingredients. It’s a versatile tool used in baking and cooking to quickly and efficiently blend various ingredients.
Q2: How is a hand mixer different from a stand mixer?
A2: A hand mixer is a handheld, portable device that requires manual control, while a stand mixer is a larger, stationary appliance with a stand and a mixing bowl. Stand mixers are typically more powerful and suitable for heavy-duty tasks, while hand mixers offer convenience and are ideal for smaller batches.
Q3: What attachments come with a hand mixer?
A3: Hand mixers usually come with attachments such as beaters, whisks, and dough hooks. Beaters are for general mixing, whisks for whipping, and dough hooks for kneading dough.
Q4: How do I clean a hand mixer?
A4: Many hand mixer attachments are dishwasher-safe, making cleanup easy. Detach the beaters or attachments and clean them separately. Wipe down the body of the hand mixer with a damp cloth. Be sure to consult the manufacturer’s instructions for specific cleaning guidelines.
Q5: Can I use a hand mixer for heavy-duty tasks like bread dough?
A5: Hand mixers are suitable for light to moderate mixing tasks. While some models can handle bread dough, a stand mixer is generally more appropriate for heavy-duty kneading.
Q6: Can I use a hand mixer for blending ingredients in a hot pot or pan?
A6: It’s not recommended to use a hand mixer directly in a hot pot or pan. Wait for ingredients to cool slightly before using the hand mixer to avoid damaging the appliance.
Q7: Can I use my hand mixer for making smoothies or blending liquids?
A7: Hand mixers are not designed for blending liquids or making smoothies. For such tasks, consider using a blender or an immersion blender designed for liquid blending.