Quiet Operation
A good kitchen mixer needs to operate quietly. Any motorized appliance should run as quietly as possible and still do the job. Well sealed lids help dampen noise, and the base should not rattle or whine.

Design and Color
A good mixer comes in a variety of styles to match the decor of your kitchen. Retro styling with modern functionality is very popular these days. Don't be afraid of color! Classic stainless and shiny chrome will never go out of style.

Sturdy but light
A good kitchen mixer should be built very sturdy but it should also be light enough that it can easily be picked up and carried around from room to room if need be.

Long power cord
A good mixer should have a long power cord. The cord should be one that can easily be unplugged from the unit itself and replaced.

Durability
Many mixers will get heavy use and durability of parts is very important. Blades should be strong, not bend, and come apart easily without breaking. A mixer shouldn't be something you have to handle with extreme care.

Easy to Disassemble and Clean
Cleaning a mixer can be a real hassle if parts don't come apart easily. The more parts that are dishwasher safe, the better! A smooth surface that can be easily wiped down is a must.

Flexible
Different containers should accommodate different size items to be mixed. Many options should include blend time, speed and preprogrammed modes for blending. Beaters, containers and other attachments should work with each other and be easy to snap together and clean. If you buy different beaters be sure they work with different containers and containers work with other attachments.

Controls and speeds
Controls should be straight forward and easy to learn. There should be at least 6 speeds plus a slow speed to reduce splattering. Some models have special controls and speeds for special preparation foods. Determine if these are necessary as they add cost to the mixer.

Controls and speeds
Controls should be straight forward and easy to learn. There should be at least 6 speeds plus a slow speed to reduce splattering. Some models have special controls and speeds for special preparation foods. Determine if these are necessary as they add cost to the mixer.

Beaters
Dual beaters add to the overall performance and power of your mixer. Two slender beaters of thin, curved, stainless steel wire work better than the single, thick posted, old style beaters.

Size and Weight
Counter space is at a premium and a good kitchen mixer has a small footprint while still retaining enough size to handle larger jobs. Since many people keep their mixer in a cupboard or on a shelf, keeping weight low without sacrificing stability is key. Consider about where you will place it.

Wattage
Typical mixers come in power ranges from 175 watts (for a hand held) to 750 watts for a powerful stand mixer. Three to five speeds are usually sufficient. A low, slow speed is necessary to prevent splattering.