Q&A: Should I buy a stand mixer based on the wattage?

I’ve read that more watts are better. Is that true or am I just wasting my money?

Don’t buy a stand mixer based on wattage. It’s usually the power used, not produced. But be sure to check the warranty as they vary. Also consider:

• Buying the biggest bowl available if your recipes frequently call for lots of flour

• Buying an extra bowl, for around $50, if you make two-step recipes so you won’t have to scrape and rinse between steps

• Checking Websites for rebate information. KitchenAid is offering $40 back on select 5- or 6-quart stand mixers (the KitchenAid Classic K45 has repeatedly been our top-rated model).

Most of the tested models have one beater that spins in one direction and moves around the bowl in the opposite way. The bottom-rated stand mixers have two beaters that spin against each other, just like a hand mixer.

While these models were the least expensive, they were also mediocre or worse at mashing potatoes, mixing cookie dough, and kneading bread. We also found that two hand mixers—the KitchenAid Ultra Power 5 KHM5DH[WH] and Braun Multi Mix 4-in-1 M880—did well at mixing dough when fitted with their dough hooks.

How do you get the most from your stand or hand mixer? Share your tips here.—Kimberly Janeway | e-mail | Twitter | Forums | Facebook

Essential information: Check our free buying advice and stand and hand mixer ratings (available to subscribers).