Hand Mixer vs. Stand Mixer: What’s the Difference?

A kitchen is a place of inspiration and creativity. Your vision comes to life when you reach for the right appliance. You may wonder whether you need a hand mixer or a stand mixer. In truth, the answer is often: why not both?

Despite some similarities, stand mixers and hand mixers do things differently. The mixer that is most suitable for each task can make your creations and cleanup easier.

These appliances provide advantages for any kitchen. Amateur and professional chefs alike use both stand mixers and hand mixers according to the results they want.

When you need to mix things up quickly, your hand mixer is just the thing. Mix ingredients quickly for vanilla bean crème brûlée or assemble a pavlova with flair.

Or maybe you'd like to make saffron mashed potatoes or meringue for your signature pie? Smaller, lighter tasks are handled quickly and easily with hand mixers, and you just need to rinse off the beaters when finished.

Below we explore electric mixer vs hand mixing.

1. Hand mixers are great for everyday use
   With various speeds and a compact, lightweight design, a hand mixer is an asset in any kitchen. They are perfect for any light, quick task, like making French omelets or making pancake batter, thanks to their easy-to-use nature.
2. Hand mixers are perfect for aeration
   Need to whip up whipped cream, ice cream, or whipped cream and mousse for a light and fluffy dessert? You can whip egg whites with your electric hand mixer and add air to a mix in a snap. Using an electric hand mixer rather than a whisk makes it easier to attain the right texture.
3. Storage is easy with hand mixers
   A hand mixer can be easily located in a cabinet or drawer without taking up a lot of space. Those who have limited space can also nestle it within a bowl.
4. Set-up and cleaning are easy with hand mixers
   In a matter of minutes, you can assemble the mixer, whip eggs, detach the beaters, wash them, and store it for future use. Setup takes seconds, so you don't lose precious time while cooking.
5. Hand mixers are portable
   Want to take your mixer on the go or simply want more mobility around the kitchen? Hand mixers are lightweight and easy to transport. The new KitchenAid® Cordless 7-Speed Hand Mixer gives you even more freedom without the limitations of a cord.
6. Hand mixers are flexible
   A hand mixer can handle batches of various sizes and consistencies since they're not limited by a specific mixing bowl. Whether Your hand mixer is ready to help, whether you're whipping up homemade whipped cream for your favorite breakfast treat, folding in chocolate chips to make your famous cookies, or trying new fillings for your hand pies.

Even greater versatility can be achieved by using a stand mixer. It is not uncommon for gourmet kitchens and home cooks alike to use a stand mixer to make bread, large batches of cookies, or other types of dough recipes that require longer mixing times. You can also expand your culinary skills with KitchenAid® mixer attachments and accessories.

1. Stand mixers are versatile
   Versatility is one of the main differences between a stand mixer and a hand mixer. With a power hub, KitchenAid® stand mixers can serve as a multi-purpose kitchen appliance that can do everything from grind meat and make pasta to make ice cream. Check out the Stand Mixer Attachments Guide to learn how to adapt your KitchenAid® stand mixer so you can use it as a juicer, spiralizer, and more.
2. Stand mixers can handle larger batches
   With a stand mixer, you can mix large amounts at a time. KitchenAid makes stand mixers with bowl capacities up to 7 quarts for making dozens of cookies or multiple loaves of bread.
3. Stand mixers are perfect for heavier doughs
   By holding the bowl in place, a stand mixer offers a more even mix for consistent results. Stand mixers are great for making cookies, bread, rolls, pasta, and homemade pretzels since they can handle the volume, stability, and power.
4. Stand mixers are powerful
   Stand mixers have motors that are typically bigger and more powerful than hand mixers, allowing them to handle thicker doughs, longer mixing times, or power attachments such as a food grinder or pasta roller.
5. Stand mixers have more speeds
   Stand mixers can often have 10 speeds, versus 5 to 9 speeds on many hand mixers. With this range of speeds, you can mix, whisk, and knead dough with even greater control. Using high speeds helps you create meringue more quickly or whip up whipped cream or frosting with fewer steps.
6. Stand mixers require less attention
   By using a stand mixer, you can cook and bake without having to hold or support it, reducing physical strain. Stand mixers also allow multitasking while they churn ingredients, whereas hand mixers require both hands to operate.
7. Stand mixers complement the look of any countertop
   You can express your inner Maker with an iconic KitchenAid® stand mixer on your countertop. With an array of bold, calm, classic, and bright colors to choose from, you can find a stand mixer that perfectly matches your style. You'll soon realize your stand mixer is the culinary center of your kitchen - ready to support your culinary adventures.

There is a place for a hand mixer and stand mixer in every kitchen. Consider your preferences and the size of your kitchen before choosing the mixer that's right for you. Many people have both a hand mixer and a stand mixer in their kitchen for convenience and versatility. There are numerous possibilities with mixers, so you're sure to find something you love.

If you prefer a hand mixer to tackle your cooking tasks, browse this collection of hand mixers, from models that come with high-speed options to those that include multiple accessories.

Alternatively, if you want something more versatile to add to your baking and cooking arsenal, shop this collection of stand mixers to find the perfect one for your kitchen.