How to choose a mixer for the kitchen: what are they, main characteristics

What types of home mixers are there?

Mixing devices can be manual, stationary, with a bowl, planetary, for cocktails and their hybrids. There are universal high-power options, which include accessories for all types of products, a stationary platform, containers for dough and cocktails.

Hand mixer

This is a small-sized, lightweight device for whipping and mixing products. A small motor is housed in a compact plastic case. The mounts for the beaters, which are driven by rotation, are brought out from the casing. There is a button to turn on and select a mode (or smooth speed control). Operates from a general power supply network. The set includes 2-4 pairs of attachments. The owner has 5-7 speed modes to choose from. To get started, two identical attachments are attached to the body, and the power cord is connected to the outlet. Then select a mode and press the start button or switch. Power is usually from 300 to 500 watts. Housewives call the advantages of a manual device:

• ease of use;
• ease of care;
• Compact and easy to store.

Mixer with bowl

Looks like a manual analogue on a stand. A removable vessel with a volume of 3-8 liters is attached to the bottom of the stand. The top part of the device folds down. It also has a choice of paired attachments for whipping or kneading. Buttons for turning on and regulating power or selecting speed are conveniently located on the device body. Electronic or mechanical control panel. It is convenient to knead the dough by setting the regulator to long operation. Material of manufacture: plastic or stainless steel. Metal models are more reliable, but more expensive. In stationary devices, the choice of equipment is wider than in manual ones. The kit can include intricately shaped chopping and mixing accessories for a variety of purposes, from juicing to meat processing. Advantage of the device with a bowl:

• less splashing;
• free hands;
• the cook does not get tired from prolonged kneading;
• advanced functionality;
• convenient control panel.

Planetary mixer

This is a stationary model with a bowl and non-standard rotating whisks. The corollas are attached to a disc-shaped base, which also rotates. It turns out that the nozzles rotate along their axis and move along the perimeter of the container at the same time. The planetary system provides improved mixing quality and greater speed of product processing. Ideal for kneading bread or dumpling dough, since there will definitely be no unkneaded areas of the dough. The speed of planetary models is not very high, but the power, on the contrary, is increased. It is advisable to install a stationary beater in a permanent place on an equal horizontal surface.

A device with a reservoir can:

• knead the dough;
• beat the whites to a high foam;
• mix ingredients for mousses, cocktails, desserts;
• chop minced meat.

Cocktail mixer

This is a special device that can only whisk liquid in a tall glass, but it does it better than other models. The body can be made of metal or plastic; tall cocktail glasses are made mainly of stainless metal. They are made on the basis of a hand-held device with a special disk-shaped attachment and a stationary housing for one or several glasses. A hand beater has two whisks that drop into one glass. It is convenient to mix liquid ingredients - milk, syrups, juices, cream. The stationary installation is powerful and is capable of whipping thick, fatty ice cream into foam and even crushing ice into crumbs. These are the machines that whip up milkshakes in cafes and bars. Cocktail making machines are equipped with multi-stage speed control, complemented by a turbo mode for cleaning the whisks.

Types of kitchen mixers and their scope of application

There are two types of mixers - hand-held and stationary. Manual models allow you to move around the kitchen space and cook in the container you want. This is very convenient when you need to use the device on several work areas or when preparing some complex dish.

It is very convenient to use this type of mixer if the dimensions of the kitchen are small and it is not possible to keep a stationary unit on the work surface. The manual model is easy to care for - the nozzle itself is washable, and the body with the mechanism is simply wiped with a dry cloth. The small size of this device makes it easy to fold and store on a shelf or in a kitchen cabinet.

Stationary mixers are suitable for all those who cook a lot and professionally. The fact is that these devices have a fairly large capacity so that you can not only beat a couple of ingredients, but also knead different types of dough and prepare a large amount of whipped products. This mixer should be placed on a work surface and sufficient space should be allocated for it.

ATTENTION! Models of stationary devices are usually large and have a spacious bowl, the volume of which can vary from one to seven liters.

At the same time, washing them is also quite simple. Always store assembled and use as needed. Stationary models are heavy, solid, suitable for large kitchens. Thanks to their beautiful design, such devices fit well into kitchen interiors of both modern and classic styles.

The convenience of stationary models is that the entire process of beating and mixing products occurs without the participation of the hostess. Just press the button and set the required power. Large quantities of ingredients can be churned in a short period of time. Many people call this mixer a professional assistant in the kitchen. Indeed, there are professional whipping machines that process large quantities of products, bringing them to a homogeneous creamy mass. Bowls in such models are usually from 3 liters.

The professional-grade mixer is made from durable non-toxic plastic, metal, glass (at the bowl) and a plastic body. Of course, the most durable models with metal bowls are easy to care for. It is enough to wash with a non-aggressive detergent using a non-abrasive sponge.

Main characteristics of mixers

Manufacturers indicate several parameters on the packaging of the device: power, material of manufacture, bowl volume, speed modes and the presence of additional functions. Each of these values ​​is important when choosing a home assistant.

Power

Wattage is the rate at which an appliance consumes energy. That is, the rotation speed that the engine imparts to the nozzles. The more powerful the electrical appliance, the thicker the dough it will knead and the more airy the cocktail will be. All other things being equal, a more powerful device is preferable. Average values ​​for a hand-held device are 120-250 Watts, for a stationary one – 300-500. The only negative is energy consumption, which means operating costs increase. In addition, a device with high productivity may overheat during prolonged operation. The instructions for such units specify the maximum time of continuous operation.

Hand mixer

A hand mixer is a compact electric appliance designed to be held with one hand. The mixer body is usually made of plastic, inside it there is an electric motor (UKD) with a gearbox, which drives two beaters, located so that when they rotate, their blades move along intersecting trajectories. The mixer, as a rule, has several possible engine rotation speeds, or smooth adjustment.

There are also hand mixers that are powered by turning the handle.

Additional functions

Manufacturers are expanding the functionality of their equipment in various ways. The mixer may come with a puree attachment, knives, graters, a shredder, a juicer, and even a meat grinder.

Timer

The presence of a timer is important when kneading dough or when strictly following the recipe in complex culinary recipes. Almost all stationary models have such a device. The time counter must be connected to the shutdown function and signal the end of work. When kneading tight dough, this device is necessary.

Overload protection

An indispensable component in powerful planetary dough mixers. The temperature relay will operate if the engine temperature exceeds the temperature limits and the device will shut down. Restarting is possible after cooling down.

Cord storage compartment

A convenient device for winding up excess wires. This is relevant if the device is planned to be stored in a closet or other permanent storage location. Usually located at the base of the device or behind the back wall. Looks like a spiral-shaped channel or protrusion for winding.

Wall mount

A panel for hanging the mixer during storage saves space and helps keep the kitchen tidy. It looks like a plastic or metal mold with holes along the diameter of the main parts.

Models for whipping milkshakes can be permanently attached to the wall. During operation, the device hangs on the wall, and the glass of milk is suspended on special housing mounts.

Rack or box for storing attachments

Some manufacturers provide their products with racks for storing attachments. It looks stylish and neat - all the accessories are in sight and at hand. Does not save space, suitable for a spacious kitchen with a large area of ​​horizontal surfaces.

Mixer attachments

The variety of attachments of modern devices will satisfy the needs of the most sophisticated cooks. There are devices for eggs, creams, dough, sauces. They produce devices for whipping, mixing, kneading, grinding, and grinding.

whisk

This is the basic attachment. Suitable for whipping light mixtures - eggs, cream, milk, omelettes, sweet creams, seasonings. Makes the mass airy and light.

Hook

Spiral hooks are used for kneading sticky dough. They cope with the task better than others, but spend a lot of time on it.

Spatula

Confectioners came up with a spade-shaped whisk for kneading shortbread dough. But it whips up mashed potatoes and mousses just as well. It is most often made of plastic. To beat thick soufflés, release a spatula with a paddle on one side. The mass turns out dense and stable.

Blender

The blender replaces the kitchen machine. May look like a nozzle or container with a lid. It is popular among young mothers, as it simplifies the process of preparing food for the first feeding. A glass with a lid containing sharp knives is suitable for chopping vegetables or nuts. Depending on the material and power of the device, they can even crush ice and grind coffee beans.

Knife

Blender knives come in two types: disc and paddle. A rotary cutter is good for chopping or slicing. A blade knife will finely chop vegetables, boiled meat, berries, and aromatic herbs.

Puree attachment

It looks like a blender, but has holes in the base and plastic blades. In some models, the purée maker is similar to the massage attachment of a hair dryer - plastic pins on a disk base. With this mechanism, the puree turns out to be uniform in consistency and airy.

Sieve

A sieve is used to sift flour before kneading dough or to strain berries, cottage cheese, and fruits. The fact is that when rubbed through a sieve, the products acquire a special airy consistency, which is difficult to achieve with the help of other devices. Wiping by hand is a rather labor-intensive process. Therefore, a sieve attachment can be useful.

Types of mixers

Mixers are divided into two groups:

• manual;
• stationary; work independently.

You have to hold the hand mixer in your hands while working (as the name suggests). It's not entirely convenient. Firstly, your hands are busy, and secondly, due to the low power, the whipping process itself is not so fast. This mixer is best suited if you need to beat egg whites or cream, batter, and you can also prepare mashed potatoes. Such a device, alas, cannot handle more complex tasks.

Stand mixers work independently. There is already a stand and a bowl, which greatly simplifies the housewife’s work. A stand mixer differs from a hand mixer in terms of power. But the downside to them is that they take up space in the kitchen, unlike a manual one, which can be folded into a box and put in a closet.

Rules for using kitchen mixers

A kitchen mixer is, first of all, an electrical appliance. Safety precautions are important when handling it. Its service life and operating efficiency depend on how carefully the owner treats the device. When working with a mixer, it is important to follow several rules.

1. Safety rules when working with an electrical network: do not touch electrical appliances with wet hands, do not place them on a wet table, do not plug a wet plug into a socket. The electrical appliance must not be immersed in water, washed in a dishwasher, poured liquid on it, or wiped with a cloth that is too wet. Water entering the engine compartment can cause a short circuit. Disconnect and change attachments, clean knives only after disconnecting from the electrical network. If you notice a burning smell from the engine, immediately unplug the power cord.
2. Study the manufacturer's recommendations. Every self-respecting factory attaches a brochure to the product, which describes in detail the rules for using attachments, the procedure for turning it on, off, cleaning and storing.
3. Use accessories for their intended purpose. Use whisks to beat thin liquids, use dough hooks to knead dough, use spatulas to stir, and use shakers to whip milk and cocktails. You can crush ice, crush nuts and grind coffee beans with specially designed, especially durable attachments.
4. Store away from sources of direct fire and elevated temperatures to avoid melting of plastic parts.
5. Fill the vessel 1/3 of the total volume so as not to splash yourself and others.
6. Start mixing at minimum speed or in the “slow start” mode.
7. After finishing work, clean all parts. The attachments are dishwasher safe (unless otherwise specified by the manufacturer). Wipe the case with a damp cloth, paying special attention to the buttons.

How to choose a mixer for your home

The choice depends on the needs of the housewife. What matters is how often you plan to use the device, what dishes will be prepared, the size of the portions, the size of the kitchen, and the budget.

5 steps to make the right choice:

1. Device type – manual, stationary, planetary, for cocktails.
2. Necessary accessories - whisks, spatulas, hooks, for purees, knives, blenders, graters, choppers.
3. Power. For daily use, a manual model with 350-450 watts, and a stationary model with 500 watts are suitable. A planetary mixer is suitable with a power of at least 600W. For regular kneading of dough, choose models from 900 Watt.
4. Manufacturing materials. Plastic is cheap, glass is environmentally friendly, metal is reliable.
5. Additional features: cord compartments, wall mounting, lighting, overheating protection.

How to choose a kitchen mixer?

When choosing a mixer, you need to pay attention to the following:

• Power. One of the most important parameters that determines the processing speed of products and the performance of the device. The more powerful the mixer, the higher its price. For household use, a power of 350-500 W will be sufficient, for a home confectionery - 600-900 W. Hand mixers typically consume 250-400 watts.
• Material for making the bowl and body. For the production of cases, plastic is often used, sometimes stainless steel. The bowl can be metal, plastic or even glass.
• Bowl volume. Can vary from 0.6 to 5 liters. You need to focus on your own needs. In planetary models, the bowls are usually more capacious.
• Nozzles The number of attachments for different mixers varies from 1 to 5 pieces. This may include spatulas, whisks, hooks, and even a blender. This approach will help expand the functionality of the device.
• Speed ​​mode. Typically a mixer has from 2 to 10 speed settings. Some models are equipped with the ability to pulse for cooking hard or dense foods.
• Other functions. This includes a timer and an emergency power shutdown function when the motor overheats.

The best mixers for the kitchen

Ratings of the best mixers are compiled based on customer opinions. On the website of each household appliance store there is a rating of the most popular models and a section for reviews.

Inexpensive manual

In a good hand mixer, buyers want to see average power, ergonomic design and a range of speeds. Ideally, pulse mode or soft start.

1. BOSCH MFQ3030

• Power 350W
• Pulse mode
• 4 speeds
• Only positive customer reviews
• Price 1999 rubles.

1. SCARLETT SC-HM40S05

• Power 300 Watt
• Bright design
• 7 speeds
• Lightweight and compact
• Price 999 rubles – the lowest in the category

1. POLARIS PHM 7016

• 700 Watt power – the highest among hand mixers
• 5 speeds
• Quiet and reliable
• Price 1699 rubles

The best stationary models with a bowl

Among stationary models, high-power devices with a wide range of options are in demand. A large bowl for the dough is also a priority.

1. MOULINEX HM 41213E

• Powerful and compact
• 5 speeds
• Capacity 2.5 liters, rotates
• 450 Watt
• The mixer can be removed and used manually
• Unrivaled reliability

1. VITEK VT-1415

• Bright design
• Rotating metal bowl
• Power 700 Watt
• Turbo mode
• 5 speeds

1. Polaris PHM 8522B

• Steel container
• 5 speeds
• Power 850 Watt

Popular planetary mixers

Planetary mixers are rated by noise level, display and advanced features.

1. Bork E800

• Power 1000 Watt
• Stainless steel housing
• Timer and sound signal
• Lots of attachments
• overheat protection
• Digital display
• Large bowl 4.7 liters
• Silent

1. Endever Skyline SM-10

• Power 600 Watt
• Stainless steel housing
• Capacious capacity 4 liters
• Large number of attachments

1. Vitek VT-1406

• Power 700 Watt
• Turbo mode
• Steel vessel
• Affordable price

The best dough mixers

When kneading dough, the power of the device, the presence of special attachments, a timer with a shutdown function, and protection against overheating are important. With prolonged kneading and frequent use, these factors play a big role.

1. Bork B810

• Power 1000 Watt
• All steel
• Speed ​​indicator
• Display
• Timer with countdown and sound signal
• 4 types of whisks
• Capacious capacity 4.75 liters
• Overheat protection and self-diagnosis

1. Sinbo SMX 2739W

• Power 800W
• Stainless steel bowl
• 3 different attachments
• Display
• Countdown timer
• Smooth start and speed control
• Planetary

1. Gemlux GL-SM10GR

• Power 1500W
• Capacity 10 liters
• Timer
• 4 types of attachments, convenient double dough hook
• All metal
• Display
• Planetary rotation

TOP best mixers

Let's name three items (one for each type) that occupy first places in the ratings and have earned numerous positive customer reviews.

• Morphy Richards MixStar 400520

Multifunctional mixer with a spacious 4-liter bowl. To ensure maximum benefit in the kitchen, all mixer attachments are double. The set includes whisks, which will be very useful for whipping airy cream, special attachments for quickly mixing ingredients and dough hooks. The manufacturer also sends the buyer a special container in which it is very convenient to store attachments.

Additional ease of use is provided by a transparent lid that protects from splashes, a built-in timer and 6 speed modes for various tasks.

Cost – 15,900 rubles.

• Goodhelper HM-450

The most simple and convenient unit. It has a stainless steel body and two types of removable elements. Five modes are available, and the continuous operation time is 10 minutes, after which the overheat protection option is activated and the device automatically turns off.

Price – 1,500 rubles.

• Moulinex HM412131 Prepline

This device is stationary, although it can also serve as a manual one, since it has a removable working part. Suitable for kneading dense dough thanks to the increased power of 450 W and the included hooks. 5 speeds, pulse and turbo mode are available. The container can hold up to 2.5 liters of content.

The purchase will cost 4,600 rubles.

• Kitfort KT-1350

A planetary unit that is suitable even for professional use. High power of 1300 W and many attachments allow it to prepare not only the bases for desserts and pastries, but also make minced meat, homemade pasta and other dishes. A capacious bowl (6 l) and a motor designed for long-term continuous operation make it possible to work with increased volumes. There are 6 speeds, overheat protection and a timer.

Cost – 14,900 rubles.