KitchenAid Classic 4.5-Qt

Should you buy the KitchenAid Classic 4.5-Qt?

The KitchenAid Classic 4.5-Qt is the entry point to the KitchenAid tilt-head line, and it makes sense for a baker who does cookies, cakes and single loaves and does not need the extras. You get the same all-metal construction and the same attachment hub as the Artisan, with a 275 W motor and a 4.5-qt bowl, for $299.99. It ranks fifth in our blenders and stand mixers group. If you want the pouring shield, the bigger bowl and more colors, that is the Artisan 5-Qt for $80 more; if you bake heavy bread, neither tilt-head is ideal.

Where it earns its score

• Satisfaction score of 96. Tied for the highest in the group, with 12,000 Amazon ratings behind it and Reliability at 95.
• All-metal and real KitchenAid. Tilt-head with a lock, planetary mixing, and the standard power hub that fits 10-plus attachments.
• Value score of 84. The most mixer per dollar in the KitchenAid tilt-head range.
• Full basic kit. Coated flat beater, coated dough hook and 6-wire whip are all included.

What to know first

• Weak on bread. The 275 W motor struggles with double batches of bread dough. Features scores 50, the lowest factor.
• No pouring shield. You will want to buy one if you add flour while mixing.
• One-year warranty. Hassle-free replacement, but short next to the Cuisinart's 3 years.
• Still heavy. 24.2 lb, only about 2 lb lighter than the Artisan.

Questions buyers ask