The Difference Between A KitchenAid Classic And Artisan

KitchenAid mixers are some of the most popular and powerful kitchen appliances, but not all models are created equal. KitchenAid Classic and Artisan mixers have key differences that affect their performance, features, and price so it’s important to know which one you’re purchasing.

In this post we’ll compare these two models in detail to help you decide which KitchenAid mixer is best for your needs.

Mixer Type

These are the two types of KitchenAid stand mixers

Classic models have a tilt-back head and a metal drive hub, while Artisan models have a tilt-head design and plastic drive hub. The tilt-back head means the mixer bowl can rest on top of the metal hub, which is especially useful for small batches because you don’t have to remove and reattach the head each time you want to mix. If you want to use the bowl for smaller quantities, it’s also much easier to remove from the tilted back head than from an Artisan model. Classic mixers also tend to be bigger than modern Artisans, which makes them better for mixing large amounts of dough or batter.

Drive Mechanism

The metal drive hub in Classic models is the main difference from Artisan. It’s what drives the beater and dough hook, which requires a lot of rotating force. In Artisans, this job is done by a plastic hub that controls the speed of the attachments. Some people prefer the Artisan drive mechanism because it’s quieter and reduces vibration when mixing. Technically there shouldn’t be much difference between these two mechanisms, but Artisan mixers are better at low speeds while Classic models are better at high speeds. If you need to do a lot of heavy mixing or prefer to work at slower speeds, an Artisan mixer may be a better choice for you than a Classic model.

Frame

The metal Classic frames are more durable than the plastic Artisan frames which can crack over time. If you’re using your mixer a lot, a Classic model will last longer. They also have better weight distribution so they can sit sturdily on the counter without tipping over.

Cord Storage

This is one of the biggest drawbacks of Artisan models in my opinion. The cord storage on those models is pretty bad: It attaches to the body of the mixer with a flimsy clip that’s prone to falling off and bending, and it doesn’t work very well at holding onto the cord. The Classic mixers keep their cords stiff and secure with coiled springs. The coiled spring model is more expensive, but it’s much sturdier and less prone to breaking.

Design Features

Classic models have a metal bowl for pouring batter and dough directly into the mixer. Artisan models have a plastic bowl with a wire screen insert that prevents large pieces of dough from getting stuck in the bottom of the bowl. This can make grinding or kneading dough more difficult, but it also keeps the surface nice and clean. Classic mixers are better suited to kneading because they don’t experience as much friction between the beater blades and bowl while mixing, while Artisan models rely on more friction which leads to excessive heat and meal loss.

Power Source

Classic models have a more powerful motor that can do its work at a higher speed. Artisan models are designed for lower speeds (up to 50%), and they’re more economical because you don’t have to spend money on a motor for them. It’s not just about speed: The difference in power is important because the motor can heat up and make the metal hub on Artisans stick to the bowl, which can sometimes happen with heavy mixing.

Is KitchenAid Classic Or Artisan is Better?

Overall, KitchenAid Classic models are better for most home users. They have more powerful motors and better design features that make them more versatile, but the adjustable speed and quiet operating sound of Artisan models make them a good choice for professional bakers who need to work at slower speeds.

What Is The Difference Between The KitchenAid Models?

Here are the main differences between the KitchenAid stand mixer models you can buy right now. We’ll focus on features because there aren’t that many differences in terms of power and durability.

KitchenAid Classic Stand Mixers

The Classic models have metal drive hubs and tilt-back heads for easy mixing. They’re larger and heavier than most Artisan mixers but they do a great job with heavy doughs, batters, and other kitchen tasks. The tilt-back head also lets you use the bowl for small batches without having to remove it from the head each time, which makes it easier to clean or measure out smaller amounts of dough or batter.

KitchenAid Artisan Stand Mixers

The Artisan style mixers have a plastic drive hub and a tilt-head for easy access. They’re more portable than Classic models and have amazing built-in strain relief for the power cord, but they’re also much quieter which makes them great for home bakers who want to get their work done without interruptions. The tilt head also makes it easier to measure out small amounts of dough or batter without having to remove the bowl from the head. These features all reduce friction between the beater blades and bowl while mixing, so as long as these factors are important to you, you should choose an Artisan model.

Does The KitchenAid Classic Mixer Knead The Dough Well?

Yes, the Classic tilt-head models are great for kneading and mixing heavy dough because they have a metal drive hub. The metal hub makes it easier to transfer heat through the bowl while kneading and attenuates the sound of the motor. This is especially important if you’re using your mixer in an apartment or house with thin walls: You’ll get more even results and less disturbance to neighbors.

Artisan mixers are more precise in terms of speed, but the Classic mixers do a better job at transferring heat through the metal head. That’s why you get loaves with more even temperature distribution from Classic models, which means less chance of over-proofing (and an ugly loaf).

Should I Get The KitchenAid Artisan 5qt?

Yes, the Artisan 5qt is the best of both worlds: It’s a quieter mixer with all the functionality of a Classic model at an affordable price, making it a great choice for home bakers who want to mix small batches but also want all of the functionality you get with an Artisan.

What Are The Top Reasons To Get A Kitchenaid Classic or Artisan Mixer?

1. Versatility

Classic and Artisan KitchenAid models are both very versatile. They work well for a wide range of tasks and have a lot of different accessories available (like pasta rollers and ice cream makers) that will help you make all kinds of things in the kitchen, like pasta dough, whip cream, mashed potatoes, ice cream, pizza dough — you name it! The only difference is that Artisans are quieter so they’re great for home bakers who don’t want to disturb anyone while they’re in the kitchen.

2. Durability

KitchenAid Classic models are more durable than Artisans. They have more powerful motors and better construction, which means they’re less likely to break down than Artisans.

3. Ease of use

Classic models are slightly bigger and heavier than Artisans, but they’re easier to use because of the metal drive hub and tilt-head design. You can easily measure out small amounts of dough with the Artisan’s tilt head, but you’ll need to remove the bowl from the head for these tasks because it has a plastic drive hub that sticks to plastic bowls. That’s not an issue with Classic models because they have metal hubs that resist heat buildup while mixing.

4. Warranty

KitchenAid Classic stand mixers have a 7-year limited warranty and Artisan stand mixers have a 5-year limited warranty. KitchenAid will also replace any part of your mixer that becomes defective as long as you own it, so you don’t have to worry about buying a broken machine if anything goes wrong (as long as you keep the receipt).

5. Soundproofing technology

Artisan models are quieter than Classic ones, but they still make noise while they’re on. The metal drives on the Classic models are specifically designed to attenuate motor noise, so they’re less likely to disturb neighbors in an apartment or house with thin walls.

Final Thoughts:

The KitchenAid Classic model is a great choice for home bakers who don’t mind the extra weight (only 2 lbs.) and extra noise (around 28 decibels). And if you can find one that’s on sale, it’s definitely less expensive than an Artisan model.

If you’ve read this far, I’m sure you’re sold on choosing the KitchenAid Classic.

Enjoy using your mixer and let us know how it works out!