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

A kitchen mixer is a type of household appliance designed for mixing food in large volumes at high speed. They differ in purpose, power, material of manufacture, additional functions, and mixing technology.

What is a kitchen mixer for?

Modern appliances are equipped with dozens of functions - from frothing milk to kneading dough. Purpose of modern kitchen mixers:

• mixing cocktails;
• whipping cream and eggs;
• kneading dough, omelette;
• preparation of sauces, mayonnaise, vegetable and fruit purees;
• crushing nuts, ice, coffee beans.

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 nozzle 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 unit 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 preparation machines are equipped with multi-stage speed control, complemented by a turbo mode for cleaning the whisks.

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.

Nozzle rotation speed and modes

This parameter stems from the previous one. The more powerful the unit, the higher the rotation speed, the more speed modes. Usually there are 3-5 of them, in stationary ones with a control panel there can be 10-12. The adjustment can be smooth or stepwise. With a smooth speed, the number of speeds is not limited - the regulator spins like a wheel.For user convenience, the speed switches are equipped with icons depicting whipped products - milk, egg whites, cream soup, yogurt, bread dough, and so on.

Turbo mode is available in almost all models. This is very convenient if you need to break up lumps in batter. But you can only use this mode for a few seconds, otherwise the engine will overheat. Turbo mode is used for cleaning after use. Warm water with detergent is poured into the bowl and high power is turned on for 2-3 seconds. Remains of dough or cocktail are washed off from the most inaccessible places.

Gradual start is a new feature. The whisk begins to move smoothly with a gradual increase in speed to the specified values. Slow start prevents liquid product from splashing due to too sudden movement of the blades.

Bowl volume

The capacity of a stationary model directly affects its functionality. The larger the volume, the greater the amount of product that can be whipped or kneaded at one time. Large containers also have disadvantages:

• inconvenient to wash - may not fit in a dishwasher or a standard sink;
• takes up space - you will have to allocate a special shelf for storage.

Standard bowls have a volume of 2.3-4 liters. A volume of 5-8 liters is found in semi-professional models with a high cost.

Bowl material

For home use, bowls are made of plastic, aluminum and stainless steel. Metal containers are more expensive, but more durable and reliable. It definitely won’t burst from a too hot product or an accidental fall. The steel container can be washed in the dishwasher in any mode and treated with disinfectant solutions. A plastic tank is cheaper and lighter.The material of the bowl is important for fans of healthy eating. It is known that many vitamins oxidize when they come into contact with metal, and the value of the natural product decreases. In this regard, plastic bowls are preferable.

There are glass bowls. This is a stylish and environmentally friendly, but not practical kitchen decoration - the weight is heavy, and the strength is limited by the capabilities of glass.

Case material

Hand-held models are made of plastic, since metal is too heavy to be held with one hand for a long time. Stationary models are often placed in a metal case, which has its advantages and disadvantages. Metal is resistant to mechanical damage, but is more expensive. It is preferable to choose stationary models made of metal - they are heavier and therefore more stable. This is especially true for planetary vehicles. The plastic is lightweight and resistant to most detergents, but does not withstand impacts and extremely high temperatures.

Pros of plastic:

• easy;
• cheap;
• wide range of colors.

Metal advantages:

• reliable;
• stylish appearance;
• gives stability.

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 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.

For limited space, a stationary device with a drawer in the lower part of the body, where beaters and additional parts are stored, is more suitable.

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 beating, 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.

15 most popular home mixer manufacturers

Traditionally, Germany and France are considered leaders in the production of mixers. Household appliances from these countries are distinguished by their reliability and build quality. China produces the most affordable devices. Among Russian manufacturers you can also find good brands in the economy segment.

• Gemlux. Domestic manufacturer with an optimal combination of price and quality. Produces a wide range of consumer electronics.
• Bosch. The most famous manufacturer of household appliances from Germany. Bosh appliances are reliable and convenient. Average prices. Powerful equipment with high-quality components
• Kitchenaid. The first manufacturer of planetary dough mixers. It specializes in equipment for cafes and restaurants, but its line includes small units suitable for home use. High degree of reliability, minimum electronics. The price is above average.
• Kenwood. Manufacturer of modern electronics for the kitchen. He calls his models kitchen machines because of their advanced functionality. Mixers from Kenwood can even cook.
• Kitfort. Manufacturer of economy class kitchen appliances. They feature a striking design and the lowest price in the segment.
• Vitek. Russian brand. Manufactures small kitchen appliances. Buyers complain about the noise of models of this brand. Reliability is at a good level, the most popular household appliances in Russia.
• Gastrorag. The company specializes in high-performance equipment for large restaurants. Some cocktail shakers are quite suitable for home kitchen use. Will last for several generations.
• Polaris. Several years on the Russian market. It has a low price. The build quality is good, mostly made from cheap plastic.
• Braun.German manufacturer of industrial equipment. One of the areas is household appliances. The quality is impeccable, the percentage of defects is minimal. The only thing that can put you off is the price. But reliability and advanced technology pay off the high price.
• Sinbo. Affordable and varied household appliances from Turkey attract buyers of the economy segment. According to reviews on the Internet, we can conclude that the quality of the products, despite the price, is decent.
• Philips. The Netherlands has been producing kitchen appliances under this brand for several decades. Extensive experience, modern technologies in production and affordable price make the manufacturer popular.
• Scarlett. Economy class products are the most reliable in their price category. A large selection of mixers - from simple to multifunctional.
• Moulinex. French manufacturer. Diverse functionality, high-quality spare parts, average price category. Low percentage of defects.
• Bork. Manufactures equipment for catering establishments. Professional quality, above average price. Mixers from Bork are equipped with convenient additions and their own developments. The parts will last for decades.
• Zelmer. A well-known and popular brand. Country of origin – Poland. According to customer reviews, the electrical appliances are inexpensive and last a long time.

Advantages of a washing machine with a dryer

1. Rules for using kitchen mixers
3. A kitchen mixer is, first of all, an electrical appliance. When handling it, safety precautions are important. The service life and efficiency of the device depend on how carefully the housewife treats it. When working with a mixer, it is important to follow several rules.German manufacturer of industrial equipment. One of the areas is household appliances. The quality is impeccable, the defect rate is minimal. The only thing that can put me off is the price. But reliability and advanced technology make up for the high price.
4. Sinbo. Affordable and varied household appliances from Turkey attract buyers in the economy segment. Based on reviews online, we can conclude that the quality of the product, despite the price, is decent.
5. Philips. The Netherlands has been producing kitchen appliances under this brand for several decades. Rich experience, modern production technologies and affordable prices make the manufacturer popular.
6. Scarlett. Economy class products are the most reliable in their price category. A large selection of mixers - from simple to multifunctional.
7. Moulinex. French manufacturer. Varied functionality, high-quality spare parts, average price category. Small percentage of defects.

Bork. Manufactures equipment for public catering establishments. The quality is professional, the price is above average. Mixers from Bork are equipped with convenient additions and their own developments. The parts will last for decades.

Zelmer. Well-known and popular brand. Country of origin: Poland. According to customer reviews, electrical appliances are inexpensive and last a long time.

Rules for using kitchen mixers

1. 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.
2. Safety rules when working with electrical networks: 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 cannot be immersed in water, washed in a dishwasher, pour liquid on it, or wiped with a too wet cloth. Water getting into the engine compartment can cause a short circuit. Disconnect and change attachments, clean the knives only after disconnecting from the electrical network. If a burning smell appears from the engine, immediately pull the power cord out of the network.
3. Study the manufacturer's recommendations. Every self-respecting plant attaches a brochure to the product, which describes in detail the rules for using attachments, the order of switching on, switching off, cleaning and storing. Use accessories for their intended purpose. Whisks are used to beat thin liquids, hooks are used to knead dough, spatulas are used to stir, shakers are used to beat milk and cocktails. You can crush ice, crush nuts and grind coffee beans with specially designed, extra-strong attachments. Keep away from direct fire and high temperatures to avoid melting plastic parts.
4. Fill the container 1/3 of the total volume to avoid splashing yourself and others.
5. Start mixing at minimum speed or on the "slow start" mode.

After finishing work, clean all parts. The attachments are dishwasher safe (unless otherwise specified by the manufacturer). Wipe the body with a damp cloth, paying special attention to the buttons.

How to choose a mixer for home

The choice depends on the needs of the hostess.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 Best Washer Dryers with Steam

1. 5 steps to make the right choice:

• Device type – manual, stationary, planetary, for cocktails.
• Necessary accessories - whisks, spatulas, hooks, for purees, knives, blenders, graters, choppers.
• Power. For daily use, a manual model of 350-450 Watt, a stationary model of 500 Watt, is suitable.
• Planetary mixer
• suitable with a power of at least 600W. For regular kneading of dough, choose models from 900 Watt.

2. Manufacturing materials. Plastic is cheap, glass is environmentally friendly, metal is reliable.

• Additional features: cord compartments, wall mounting, lighting, overheat protection.
• 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.

3. BOSCH MFQ3030

• Power 350W
• Pulse mode
• 4 speeds
• Only positive customer reviews

Price 1999 rubles.

SCARLETT SC-HM40S05

1. Power 300 Watt

• Bright design
• 7 speeds
• Lightweight and compact
• Price 999 rubles – the lowest in the category
• POLARIS PHM 7016
• 700 Watt power – the highest among hand mixers

2. 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.
• MOULINEX HM 41213E

3. Powerful and compact

• 5 speeds
• 2.5 liter capacity, rotates
• 450 watts

Mixer is removed and used in manual mode

Unrivaled reliability

1. VITEK VT-1415

• Bright design
• Rotating metal bowl
• 700 watt power
• Turbo mode
• 5 speeds
• Polaris PHM 8522B
• Steel container
• 5 speeds

2. 850 watt power

• Popular planetary mixers
• Planetary mixers are evaluated by noise, display and advanced features.
• Bork E800

3. Power 1000 Watts

• Stainless steel body
• Timer and sound signal
• Many attachments
• Overheating protection

Digital display

Large bowl 4.7 liters

1. Noiseless

• Endever Skyline SM-10
• Power 600 Watts
• Stainless steel body
• Large capacity 4 liters
• A large number of attachments
• Vitek VT-1406

2. Power 700 Watts

• Turbo mode
• Steel vessel
• Affordable price
• The best mixers for dough
• When kneading dough, the power of the device, the presence of special attachments, a timer with a switch-off function and overheating protection are important. With long-term kneading and frequent use, these factors play a big role.
• Bork B810

3. Power 1000 Watts

• All steel
• Speed ​​indicator
• Display
• Timer with countdown and sound signal
• 4 types of whisks
• Capacity capacity of 4.75 liters
• Overheating protection and self-diagnosis

Sinbo SMX 2739W