Kitchenaid Professional 600 vs Artisan: Which Mixer Reigns?
Choosing the right stand mixer can feel overwhelming, especially with so many options available. KitchenAid is a household name, and for good reason! But when it comes to deciding between the KitchenAid Professional 600 and the Artisan, how do you choose?
Both mixers offer exceptional performance, but they cater to different needs and budgets. This comparison will dive deep into the features, performance, and value of each model. We’ll explore the key differences to help you determine which KitchenAid mixer is the perfect fit for your kitchen.
Whether you’re a casual baker or a seasoned pro, understanding the nuances of the KitchenAid Professional 600 and the Artisan is crucial. Get ready to uncover which mixer will become your new best friend in the kitchen and revolutionize your baking experience. Let’s find out which one comes out on top!
Specs at a Glance:
| Feature | KitchenAid Professional 600 | Artisan |
|---|---|---|
| Motor Power | 575 Watts | 325 Watts |
| Bowl Capacity | 6 Quarts | 5 Quarts |
| Mixing Action | Planetary | Planetary |
| Speeds | 10 | 10 |
| Bowl Material | Stainless Steel | Stainless Steel |
| Head Type | Bowl-Lift | Tilt-Head |
| Included Attachments | Wire Whip, Dough Hook, Flat Beater | Wire Whip, Dough Hook, Flat Beater |
| Warranty | 1 Year | 1 Year |
| Weight | 29 lbs | 23 lbs |
| Dimensions (H x W x D) | 16.5 x 11.3 x 14.1 inches | 13.9 x 8.7 x 14.1 inches |
| Number of Colors | More than 20 | More than 20 |
| Attachment Compatibility | Yes | Yes |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Motor Power
- Kitchenaid Professional 600: Features a powerful 575-watt motor, designed for handling heavy doughs and large batches. This robust motor allows for efficient mixing and kneading, but can be louder during operation.
- Artisan: Equipped with a 325-watt motor, suitable for everyday mixing tasks and smaller quantities. While quieter and energy-efficient, it may struggle with dense doughs compared to the Professional 600.
- Winner: Professional 600
Bowl Capacity
- Kitchenaid Professional 600: Boasts a 6-quart stainless steel bowl, ideal for large families or those who frequently bake in bulk. Its size allows for mixing up to 14 cups of flour.
- Artisan: Comes with a 5-quart stainless steel bowl, offering ample space for most home baking needs, but less capacity than the Professional 600. Suitable for mixing up to 9 cups of flour.
- Winner: Professional 600
Mixing Action
- Kitchenaid Professional 600: Utilizes a direct-drive transmission and a planetary mixing action, ensuring thorough and consistent mixing throughout the bowl. This design is highly efficient.
- Artisan: Also employs a planetary mixing action and direct drive, similar to the Professional 600, but with a slightly less powerful motor, potentially affecting its ability to handle very thick mixtures as efficiently.
- Winner: Tie
Build Quality & Durability
- Kitchenaid Professional 600: Generally considered very durable, with a solid metal construction. Designed for heavy-duty use, it’s built to last and withstand frequent baking.
- Artisan: Also features a robust build, typically with a metal construction, though some components may be slightly lighter than the Professional 600. The artisan is still a durable machine.
- Winner: Tie
Included Attachments
- Kitchenaid Professional 600: Typically includes a flat beater, dough hook, and wire whip. Often comes with a pouring shield to minimize splatters.
- Artisan: Comes with the same standard attachments: flat beater, dough hook, and wire whip, along with a pouring shield.
- Winner: Tie
Speed Settings
- Kitchenaid Professional 600: Offers 10 speed settings, providing precise control for various mixing tasks, from gently folding ingredients to whipping cream.
- Artisan: Also offers 10 speed settings, identical to the Professional 600, offering the same level of control and versatility.
- Winner: Tie
Size & Weight
- Kitchenaid Professional 600: Generally larger and heavier due to its more powerful motor and larger bowl. This can make it more stable during mixing but takes up more counter space.
- Artisan: More compact and lighter than the Professional 600, making it easier to move and store, especially for those with limited kitchen space.
- Winner: Artisan
Price
- Kitchenaid Professional 600: Typically priced higher due to its more powerful motor and larger capacity, reflecting its professional-grade capabilities.
- Artisan: More affordable than the Professional 600, making it a good option for home bakers who don’t need the extra power or capacity.
- Winner: Artisan
Winner by Category:
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Motor Power | KitchenAid Professional 600 |
| Bowl Capacity | KitchenAid Professional 600 |
| Ease of Use (Bowl Access) | Artisan |
| Best for Large Batches | KitchenAid Professional 600 |
| Best for Small Batches | Artisan |
| Counter Space | Artisan |
| Overall Value | Tie |
What They Have in Common:
- Planetary Mixing Action: Both mixers utilize a planetary mixing action, ensuring thorough and even mixing by reaching all areas of the bowl. This design ensures all ingredients are incorporated effectively.
- Multiple Speed Settings: Both models offer a range of speed settings, typically around 10 different speeds, providing versatility for various mixing tasks, from gentle folding to vigorous whipping.
- Attachment Compatibility: Both mixers are designed to be compatible with a wide array of KitchenAid attachments, expanding their functionality beyond basic mixing to include tasks like pasta making, grinding, and more.
- Stainless Steel Bowls: Both come with durable stainless steel mixing bowls, known for their resistance to staining, odors, and easy cleaning. They are also both dishwasher safe.
- Included Attachments: Each mixer includes a set of essential attachments, such as a wire whip for whipping, a dough hook for kneading, and a flat beater for general mixing.
KitchenAid Professional 600 Vs Artisan Buying Guide
Price Comparison
The KitchenAid Professional 600 typically comes with a higher price tag compared to the Artisan. This difference often reflects the Professional 600’s more powerful motor and larger capacity. The Artisan, being positioned as a more consumer-friendly model, offers a more accessible entry point. Consider your budget and how frequently you plan to use the mixer when evaluating the price difference. Factor in the long-term value and included accessories as part of your decision.
Motor Power & Performance
The Professional 600 boasts a more robust motor, usually around 575 watts, designed for handling larger batches and denser doughs. This makes it ideal for frequent bakers or those who regularly work with bread dough. The Artisan, while still capable, has a less powerful motor, typically around 325 watts, making it better suited for lighter tasks and smaller quantities. Assess your typical baking needs to determine the appropriate motor power for your workflow.
Bowl Capacity & Size
The Professional 600 features a larger bowl capacity, often 6 quarts, allowing you to mix more ingredients at once. This is a significant advantage if you frequently bake for large families or gatherings. The Artisan usually has a 5-quart bowl, which is still a good size for most home baking needs but may limit you when making larger batches. Consider the size of your average recipe and the number of servings you typically prepare.
Build Quality & Durability
Both models are known for their sturdy construction, but the Professional 600 often uses more metal components for added durability, especially in the gears and drive system. This can translate to a longer lifespan, particularly with heavy use. The Artisan, while also well-built, might incorporate more plastic parts in certain areas. Evaluate the frequency of use and the expected lifespan when considering the build quality differences. Both mixers are built to last.
Attachment Compatibility
Both the Professional 600 and the Artisan are compatible with a wide range of KitchenAid attachments, expanding their functionality beyond basic mixing tasks. However, some attachments, especially those requiring more power, may perform better on the Professional 600 due to its more powerful motor. Consider which attachments are essential to your cooking style and ensure compatibility with your chosen model. Review attachment compatibility before your final decision.
Ease of Use & Cleaning
Both mixers are relatively easy to use, with intuitive controls and straightforward operation. The tilt-head design of the Artisan makes it easier to add ingredients and remove the bowl. The Professional 600 often uses a bowl-lift design, which can be slightly less convenient for adding ingredients. Cleaning is generally simple for both models, with dishwasher-safe parts for most accessories. Consider your preferred design for ease of use and cleaning convenience.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy KitchenAid Professional 600 If…
- You frequently bake large batches of dough or batters.
- You need a more powerful motor to handle heavier mixtures.
- You prefer the stability and capacity of a bowl-lift design.
- You want a mixer built for commercial or heavy-duty home use.
Buy Artisan If…
- You have limited counter space and prefer a more compact design.
- You primarily bake for family and friends.
- You prefer a tilt-head design for easier access to the bowl.
- You want a wider variety of colors to match your kitchen decor.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between the KitchenAid Professional 600 and the Artisan?
The primary differences lie in motor power, bowl capacity, and price. The Professional 600 has a more powerful motor (575 watts) and a larger bowl (6 quarts), making it ideal for heavier tasks and larger batches. The Artisan has a less powerful motor (325 watts) and a 5-quart bowl, suited for lighter use and smaller recipes. The Artisan is generally more affordable.
Which mixer is better for bread dough?
The KitchenAid Professional 600 is generally better for bread dough due to its more powerful motor and higher capacity. It can handle the dense consistency of bread dough more effectively and mix larger batches. However, the Artisan can still handle bread dough, but it may require more frequent stopping and scraping, and may be less efficient with larger quantities.
Does the Artisan have enough power for most tasks?
Yes, the Artisan has sufficient power for most common kitchen tasks, including mixing cake batter, whipping cream, and making cookies. It’s an excellent choice for home bakers who don’t frequently work with heavy doughs or require large batch mixing. It is also more compact and easier to store for those with limited counter space, offering versatility.
Are the attachments compatible between the two models?
Yes, both the Professional 600 and the Artisan are compatible with a wide range of KitchenAid attachments. This includes attachments for pasta making, grinding meat, juicing, and more. While the attachments are compatible, some may perform better on the Professional 600 due to its more powerful motor, particularly those requiring significant power.
Is the Professional 600 worth the extra cost?
The Professional 600 is worth the extra cost if you frequently bake large batches, work with dense doughs, or anticipate heavy usage. Its more powerful motor and larger capacity offer significant advantages in these situations. If you bake occasionally and primarily make lighter recipes, the Artisan may be a better value proposition for your needs.
How do I clean the KitchenAid mixers?
Both mixers are relatively easy to clean. The bowl and most attachments are dishwasher-safe. The mixer body can be wiped down with a damp cloth. Always consult the user manual for specific cleaning instructions for your model. It is important to avoid submerging the mixer body in water to protect the motor and internal components.
What is the warranty on these mixers?
KitchenAid offers a warranty on both the Professional 600 and the Artisan. The warranty typically covers defects in materials and workmanship. The specific length of the warranty may vary, so it’s essential to review the warranty details provided with your purchase. Registering your mixer with KitchenAid often extends the warranty period.
Final Verdict
The KitchenAid Professional 600 offers more power and capacity, making it the better choice for serious bakers and those who frequently work with heavy doughs or large batches. While the Artisan remains a capable mixer for everyday tasks, the Professional 600’s robust performance and enhanced features give it an edge. Consider your baking needs and budget when making your final decision.
Winner: KitchenAid Professional 600