The KitchenAid Artisan 5-Quart tops our lists as the best stand mixer from any brand and the best KitchenAid overall. It's a timeless mixer that balances power and size to create a durable, easy-to-use appliance that will last for decades. Read on to see why this mixer outshined all the rest.

The Artisan® and Classic™ Series mixers both feature alternating current motors. The Artisan® motor is 325 watts, while the Classic™ motor is 275 watts. The additional power on the Artisan® mixers can help when mixing thick, heavy doughs.

The KitchenAid Artisan we tested is a workhorse that makes you realize why everyone and their grandma have one in their kitchen. Whether you're making a meringue, a few dozen cookies, or a stretchy pizza dough, the KitchenAid Artisan has the power do it, and do it well.

Artisan® Series 5 Quart Tilt-Head Stand Mixer Empire Red KSM150PSER | KitchenAid.

It's all about quality. They're robust, durable, strong and decently well-built. A lot of the cheaper ones won't be able to knead the dough enough or mix at high enough speeds for long enough.