KitchenAid Ultra Power 5-Speed Hand Mixer Review Crystal Blue Performance Tested

Description

Design and Build Quality

The KitchenAid KHM512CL 5-Speed Ultra Power Hand Mixer immediately catches the eye with its sleek Crystal Blue finish, adding a pop of color to any kitchen. The compact size (3.5″ D x 8″ W x 6″ H) and lightweight build (2 pounds) make it incredibly easy to handle, even during extended mixing sessions. I found the lockable swivel cord to be a genius addition, keeping the cord out of the way while I worked on my recipes. Plus, the stainless steel turbo beaters feel sturdy and durable, ready to tackle everything from cookie dough to mashed potatoes. Its modern appearance and ergonomic design make it a delightful tool to use, though I did notice that the glossy finish tends to show fingerprints easily.

Performance and Speed Options

Using this hand mixer was a breeze, thanks to its five-speed settings. Whether I was gently folding in chocolate chips on speed one or whipping up fluffy meringues at speed five, the mixer delivered consistent results. The power is sufficient for most home baking tasks, and the manual controls give you precise control over mixing. One feature I really appreciated was how seamlessly it transitioned between speeds without splashing ingredients everywhere. That being said, for tougher doughs or very thick mixtures, it did feel like the motor was straining slightly, which might be a limitation for more ambitious bakers.

Ease of Use and Convenience

This mixer is as user-friendly as it gets. The push-button controls make switching between speeds effortless, and the single-handed accessory removal button is a lifesaver when your other hand is covered in flour. Cleaning up after use was equally simple, as the stainless steel turbo beaters are dishwasher safe. I also loved the fact that the cord swivels and locks into place, preventing it from tangling during use. However, I did find that the lack of a storage case for the beaters was a minor inconvenience, as I had to store them separately.

Key Benefits

• Stainless steel turbo beaters ensure thorough mixing for a variety of recipes.
• Lightweight design minimizes hand fatigue during prolonged use.
• Five-speed settings provide versatility for different mixing tasks.
• Lockable swivel cord enhances convenience and keeps the workspace tidy.

Areas for Improvement

• The motor struggles slightly with very thick or heavy doughs.
• The glossy finish is prone to showing fingerprints and smudges.
• It would be nice to have a storage case for the beaters and cord.

Competing Products

When comparing this hand mixer to other brands, a few notable alternatives come to mind. For instance, the Cuisinart HM-90S offers a nine-speed option and comes with additional attachments like a whisk and dough hooks, making it more versatile for professional bakers. However, it’s bulkier and less compact than this KitchenAid model. On the other hand, the Hamilton Beach 62682RZ is a more affordable option, but its build quality feels less premium, and it lacks the polished features like the swivel cord or dishwasher-safe components that this model offers.

In terms of reliability and performance, the KitchenAid hand mixer excels with its thoughtful design and user-friendly features, though professionals might lean toward mixers with higher wattage for more intensive tasks.

Bang for the Buck

The price-to-quality ratio of this hand mixer feels just right for anyone who bakes casually or moderately. While it might not replace a stand mixer for heavy-duty tasks, it’s a fantastic tool for everyday needs. The dishwasher-safe beaters, combined with the efficient power and ease of use, make this a worthwhile investment for home bakers. However, if you’re looking for a budget-friendly option with fewer bells and whistles, there are simpler models available that might suit your needs better.

Overall, the KitchenAid KHM512CL 5-Speed Ultra Power Hand Mixer truly shines in its niche, providing a mix of style, functionality, and convenience.

Additional information