Compare Kitchenaid Classic Plus vs KitchenAid Artisan Stand Mixers
You have landed here because you have decided to purchase an icon of every top kitchen, but you aren’t quite sure which model is the best fit for you!
You know you want a KitchenAid mixer- but which one?
Or you want to compare KitchenAid Classic Plus vs KitchenAid Artisan Stand Mixer, but don’t know where to start, or what’s important?
Whatever the reason, we’re glad you’re here!
In this article, we will compare two of the most popular KitchenAid stand mixer models – the Artisan and the Classic Plus.
After reading this article, you can decide with confidence whether the Artisan or Classic Plus KitchenAid Stand Mixer is right for you.
We’ve already separately reviewed the two models in question. However, in this article, we are going to look at how these two wildly popular models stack up against each other.
There are oodles of reasons that you may want to add a KitchenAid mixer to your arsenal of kitchen appliances…
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Perhaps you want to recreate Grandma’s classic meatballs ?
Maybe you have a large family, and love to make your mashed potatoes and bread from scratch. Or are you an aspiring pastry chef, who simply loves to bake for the joy of baking?
Key Components Of The Artisan KitchenAid Stand Mixer
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The Artisan KitchenAid Stand Mixer boasts a number of key features that a home cook is looking for. I’ve previously devoted this entire article to reviewing the Artisan KitchenAid.
If you already know that is the Artisan is the model for you, [easyazon_link identifier=”B00005UP2P” locale=”US” tag=”cookloveeat-20″]click here to purchase on Amazon[/easyazon_link].
Let’s quickly recap the main features that make up the KitchenAid Artisan model.
- 325 Watt Motor. This motor is powerful enough to tackle whatever kitchen recipe you can think of! With the 325 watt motor, you can do everything from kneading bread to whipping egg whites.
- 5 Quart Stainless Steel Mixing Bowl. This capacity allows you to make 9 dozen cookies or 4 loaves of bread in a single batch!
- Tilt-Head Style Mixer. Easily switch attachments or add ingredients with this simple to operate tilt head style.
- 10 Speeds
- 59 Point Planetary Mixing Action Leave no dough unmixed! 59 touchpoints ensure your batter will be thoroughly mixed- every time!
- Multi-Purpose Power Hub There are over 15 hub attachments that will turn your mixer into a true multi-purpose kitchen appliance.
- Included: Nylon-Coated Flat Beater, Dough Hook and Wire Whisk
- Also Included: 2 Piece Pouring Shield The pouring shield is a must! Avoid the dreaded “dust cloud” of flour or flying ingredients by using this included attachment.
- Measures 14 by 8-2/3 inches by 14 inches; Weighs 22 Pounds
- Available in a rainbow of 20+ Colors. The Artisan gives you so many color options. Choose the one that matches your current decor, or the one that matches your own style and personality.
- Solid Construction that KitchenAid is Known For, Backed by a One-Year Warranty and KitchenAid’s Outstanding Customer Service.
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Key Features Of The Classic Plus KitchenAid Model
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I’ve talked about how the KitchenAid Classic Plus Stand Mixer is a super option for home cooks.
Review the article here, or if you already have your mind set on the Classic Plus, [easyazon_link identifier=”B00063ULMI” locale=”US” tag=”cookloveeat-20″]head to Amazon to purchase![/easyazon_link]
Let’s refresh our memories and take a look at the key features of the Classic Plus KitchenAid Mixer.
- 250 Watt Motor.
- 4.5 Quart Stainless Steel Mixing Bowl.
- Tilt-Head Style Mixer.
- 10 Speeds
- 59 Point Planetary Mixing Action
- Multi-Purpose Power Hub – 15 Optional Attachments
- Included: Nylon-Coated Flat Beater, Dough Hook and Wire Whisk
- Measures 14.1 x 8.7 x 13.9 inches; Weighs 15 Pounds
- Solid Construction that KitchenAid is Known For, Backed by a One-Year Warranty and KitchenAid’s Outstanding Customer Service.
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Let’s take a look at a few shared features that make these two such popular products!
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The Artisan and Classic Plus both have the same sleek design.
In fact, this one of the most loved features of any KitchenAid mixer, the design makes clean-up a snap! Simply wipe down after use with a wet towel.
While graceful in design, these machines do have a large footprint.
Most consumers find that because of the weight, it is not always reasonable to store it in a cupboard or shelf where it needs to be moved each time it is used.
Plan to clear off some permanent counter space to house your new stunning appliance!
Both are tilt head models of mixers and have the coveted 59 point planetary rotation for even mixing.
Keep in mind that neither is meant for commercial use, so if you intend to turn your love of baking into a side job, you should consider a different model. Not only will you want the additional horsepower of a more expensive model, but using either of these models commercially can void the warranty!
Whether you choose the Artisan or the Classic Plus, your purchase will be backed by the KitchenAid solid customer service and a one year warranty!
Now for the real stuff!
Let’s take a look at what sets these two models apart:
Differences Between the Artisan and the Classic Plus KitchenAid Mixers
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- Bowl Size: 5 Quart (Artisan) vs. 4.5 Quart (Classic Plus) Bowl Size.
That extra half quart can really make a difference! To put the size difference into perspective, the Artisan can handle 9 dozen cookies in one batch, which the Classic Plus is limited to about 6.5 dozen at one time.
- Horsepower: 325 watts (Artisan) vs. 275 (Classic Plus)
You will really notice the extra horsepower if you plan to make “heavy” things like bread dough. The Classic Plus can handle an occasional loaf of bread, about once a week or so. The Artisan can handle regular kneading of bread dough, the recommended amount is about 4 cups of flour or less.
As a note, when using either model, you should not exceed speed 2 for heavy doughs like bread. If you feel the motor straining, simply turn it off and let it cool down for a minute or two.
- Options & Extras!
Two big extras come with the Artisan- more color choices, (like way more) and the pouring shield.
The pouring shield is an absolute must, and if you decide to go with the Classic Plus, we highly recommend adding on the additional pouring shield.
Plus, who wouldn’t want to pick from an assortment of colors like Robin’s Egg and Mulberry?
The Artisan is available in 20+ colors, while the Classic Plus is only available in white.
Best Practices for Using Your KitchenAid Mixer
Whichever model you pick, be sure to take good care of it!
Some helpful hints for making sure your mixer stays in top working condition:
- Do not use an extension cord! This is the fastest way to burn out your motor. Make sure your mixer is plugged directly into a three-pronged outlet. This is to ensure the proper electrical flow gets to your appliance.
- If the beater seems to be off, you can adjust it up or down. There is a small screw at the head of the attachment to make these adjustments.
- Pay attention to the speed! Faster is usually not better, especially for heavy dough! The other fastest way to burn up your KitchenAid motor is to crank that bread dough up to 10. 10 is only for the very softest things, like whipping egg whites.
- When not in use, consider using a cover to keep stray dust and grit away. (You can even DIY one!)
So Which KitchenAid Model is Right For Me – the Artisan or the Classic Plus?
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Either KitchenAid Model will be a welcome addition to your kitchen. You will be surprised by how the appliance inspires you to be a more confident and adventurous cook!
When you choose to purchase a KitchenAid mixer, you add an appliance that not only performs tough kitchen tasks but will save your arms, elbows, and sanity!
Of course, your doughs and mixes will be thoroughly mixed, without the hassle of multiple appliances.
You will love that you can keep your kitchen mess to a minimum. Unlike using a traditional hand mixer, which has a tendency to puff ingredients everywhere!
Whichever model you choose will vastly improve your cooking and kitchen experience.
But to choose between the two, with their size and color differences, all you need to do is ask yourself a couple of questions:
- Is it really important that this appliance matches my current decor?
This may seem silly, but due to the heft, KitchenAid mixers are more often than not kept on the kitchen counter. This means that you will likely be looking at your sleek appliance – a lot. Is it going to bother you if it doesn’t coordinate with your existing colors?
Imagine looking at it every day… are you going to wish you splurged a bit to get the color just right?
If the answer is a definite yes, then mark the Artisan down as your mixer.
Good luck picking a color- we have our favorites narrowed down to just 5 😀
- How many people are in your family, or how many do you regularly cook for?
If you have a medium or large family (or a family that eats like a large family), you will want the larger capacity of the Artisan.
And even if you are a small family, or just one person, remember that these appliances can last a lifetime, so it is worth investing in the larger model to accommodate a (possibly) larger future household. Or to still cook more at once, and use your freezer to save time later.
- Do you enjoy baking and cooking as a hobby? Do you frequently make large batches of goodies, or love to host parties?
Also, if you are an avid baker or home cook, you may want to consider the larger capacity of the Artisan. That extra half quart bowl is the difference of a few more dozen cookies.
Think about the quantities you cook in, is it more ideal to get the larger bowl and only have to do one batch, versus the smaller bowl and breaking it up into multiple batches?
Purchasing Options- Artisan or Classic Plus Mixer
We recommend making your KitchenAid purchase from Amazon. They offer quick shipping, and the most obvious perk, the price is often much lower than the MSRP.
And if you have a smaller family, or maybe are simply happy with a standard white to save a little bit of money, the Classic Plus is for you.
[easyazon_link identifier=”B00063ULMI” locale=”US” tag=”cookloveeat-20″]Click here to purchase the Classic Plus on Amazon.[/easyazon_link]
If you have decided the larger and more colorful is more your style, the Artisan is for you!
[easyazon_link identifier=”B00005UP2P” locale=”US” tag=”cookloveeat-20″]Click here to purchase the Artisan in your favorite color on Amazon[/easyazon_link]
Whatever you decide, start Pinning recipes now!
Once you start cooking with your new KitchenAid Mixer, you won’t be able to quit!
Here is a direct link to how to make your own KitchenAid Stand Mixer cover – enjoy!
Some more articles you might like …
KitchenAid Artisan Mini Stand Mixer Review
Compare KitchenAid Professional And ProLine Stand Mixers
KitchenAid Stand Mixer Attachments