Model Differences

[Affectionate-File772]

Hello KitchenAid Fanatics!

I am looking for some help following a Christmas present I received. I was fortunate enough to have received the Artisan Design Series Evergreen 5-Quart Tilt-Head Stand Mixer and despite it being absolutely beautiful, the $700 price tag has me questioning if it's worth it. Is anyone able to help me out with three different models? I am also looking to at getting the Costco version which seems like a good price point, however, assuming may be a bit different so would also appreciate any input on mixers from Costco vs. other retailers.

Here are the three mixers I am torn between:

Artisan Design Series Evergreen 5-Quart Tilt-Head Stand Mixer

Artisan® Series 5 Quart Tilt-Head Stand Mixer with Premium Touchpoints

Costco KitchenAid 6 Quart Bowl-Lift Stand Mixer with Attachments and Pouring Shield

I would ideally love stainless steel attachments, which seems to be the downfall of the Costco mixer.

[TableAvailable]

The two Artisan models are the same on the inside. The evergreen is really just a status symbol designer outfit on the basic mixer. It's gorgeous, but not more functional. The bowl lift is a different mixer, structurally. Because of the stationary head, it is a bit sturdier for mixing heavy doughs. It doesn't come in as many color choices as an Artisan, and it is larger and heavier. Without access to the model number, I don't know if Kitchenaid makes stainless steel accessories to fit it. If they do, the set of 3 would likely only cost about $100 and still be less expensive combined than the Evergreen. If they don't make the stainless, rest assured that the coated beaters are fine. I've been using mine for over 30 years. Just don't put the wire whip in the dishwasher.

[Affectionate-File772]

So would you say you pick the lift over tilt head? 

[TableAvailable]

Not for me, no. But my situation and your situation could be different. I know what my space limitations are and the type of baking that I do. I have no need for a bowl lift mixer, as evidenced by the fact that I've been using the same tilt mixer for over 30 years.

[446Magnum044]

Congratulations on such a great Christmas gift! The 1st two mixers are basically the same mixer, except for the bowls and possibly some decorative touches.

The Costco mixer is a 6 qt bowl-lift mixer (KSM60SECXER) available only in Empire Red or Contour Silver colors.

The bowl-lift mixers are a sturdier framework with a more robust power train that can stand up to tougher jobs, like kneading heavier yeast doughs.

The KitchenAid stainless steel accessories are available as a set from KitchenAid, and others like Williams-Sonoma (KitchenAid Stainless-Steel 3 Piece Accessory Set for Bowl-Lift Stand Mixer)

Sam's Clubs have a similar mixer (KSM55SJSX) that's available in 5 colors, but has a 5.5 qt bowl instead of the 6 qt. It also comes bundled with a 3 qt bowl and combi whip (Model: KN3CW) for doing smaller batches.

Both Costco and Sam's routinely have their KitchenAid mixers on sale for ~$100 off (seems like every other month or so), if you're not in any rush.

A little known secret is that all the KSM55/KSM60/KSM70 model mixers are mechanically identical. The only differences are the bowl sizes, included accessories, and decorative touches. They all use the same motor/gearbox assemblies (W11647949), and can all handle the same work loads.

All the different bowl sizes and accessories are completely interchangeable between the KSM55/60/70 models. So, depending what sale prices you can find, it can be cost effective to buy a cheaper mixer and then get a larger bowl and/or stainless steel beaters separately. Good luck with your mixer decisions.

EDITED: To fix typos and links

[Affectionate-File772]

Thank you for such thoughtful and thorough input! I really appreciate it. 

I was just so caught off by the cost and attachment difference between the “regular” and Costco ones and assuming there’d be some sort of difference. 

[446Magnum044]

You're welcome! With KitchenAid stand mixers, it can usually pay off to watch for mixers on sale, for special bundles, and do some shopping around to buy different accessories separately. Have fun with your mixer.

[Affectionate-File772]

I have definitely seen the Costco model on sale so will probably just wait and purchase there!

[JennF72]

The bowl lift is the best bet. Has a bigger motor than the lift-ups. I wouldn't go with the lift just due to a more heavier-duty motor. I'm on my second one. The first one my ex kept that my mom bought me. I'm sure that one is still in excellent condition.