The 8 Best Hand Mixers of 2024

How We Tested

We tested 19 different hand mixers across every major brand and price point. The key factors that we took into consideration were the physical comfort of the machine while in use, how well it managed to perform essential mixing and whipping functions, and the ease of operation. We also took into consideration the design appeal and price for the value when further refining our top choices.

Each mixer was tasked with whipping cream and mixing cake batter or cookie dough. In cases where dough hook attachments were provided, those were tested as well. Hand mixers with special features, like heating elements, additional attachments, cordless power, or timers, were reviewed based on how well those features performed above and beyond the standard features, and any trade-offs that may have been made to accommodate them.

Other Options We Tested

• KitchenAid 9-Speed Hand Mixer with Turbo Beater II: This hand mixer comes with more attachments than any of the other models that we tested, but several of them seemed superfluous. In place of a blending rod, we would have preferred a sturdier storage case than the drawstring bag that’s included. Additionally, it wasn’t any better at mixing dough than comparable or more reasonably priced models. During testing, it struggled to thoroughly mix cookie dough, requiring us to change attachments from the beaters to the dough hooks. We’d be happier with a hand mixer with fewer features and better overall performance.
• Dash Smart Store Compact Hand Mixer: We wanted to like this hand mixer so much for its compact size and impressively low price point, but when it came down to it, the Dash Smart Store Compact hand mixer struggled to perform even the most basic tasks. We didn’t think it was possible for a hand mixer to be too lightweight, but this one is, leaving it feeling flimsy and uncomfortable to use.
• Black+Decker Helix Performance Premium Hand Mixer: The unique “helix” shape of the beater attachments seems like a cool idea, as well as the fun colors this mixer is available in, but when it actually comes to mixing, we found it left a lot to be desired. There is no gradual increase when switching between the five speeds, and the included “turbo” button seems to do little more than make noise. The machine is light and powerful but gets difficult to control at higher speeds and when mixing thicker doughs. We also weren’t impressed with the durability of the whisk attachment or the nylon beaters.
• Oster HeatSoft Hand Mixer: The Oster HeatSoft Hand Mixer is clearly made for people who regularly forget to bring their butter to room temperature before starting a baking project. The product description says that it “softens butter 12x faster” than leaving a stick of butter on the counter for 30 minutes—which we aren’t disputing. But it’s ultimately not a function that feels all that necessary, especially given how uncomfortable it is to use for any length of time. The hand mixer weighs about 4.6 pounds, which is nearly double the weight of other models and was noticeably taxing to hold during testing.

What to Look for When Buying a Hand Mixer

Basic Attachments

All hand mixers come with beater attachments. Classically, the beater attachments were designed with a central post that the beaters were built around. Now, most beater styles are wire beaters without any obstructions and are typically easier to wash. Some beaters are either reinforced nylon or silicone-coated to make mixing all the way to the sides of the bowl convenient and avoid scratching the bowl in the process. 

Several models also come equipped with a whisk attachment, making whipped cream a snap. Usually, there is just one whisk attachment, although the Breville Handy Mix Scraper model comes with double whisks for even faster whipping. 

Many hand mixers come with dough hook attachments or offer them separately. While these are certainly an option, keep your expectations tempered when it comes to mixing doughs. A tiny batch of very soft cinnamon roll dough may be possible, but be careful not to push your machine too far. And remember, you’re going to be giving your arm a workout pushing the mixer through that dough as well. 

Power

The average power for hand mixers is between 200 to 250 watts. Anything less than 200 watts isn’t going to handle very much and will likely need replacing much sooner than a slightly more powerful mixer. The Braun HM5130 MultiMix hand mixer boasts an impressive 350 watts—which is as powerful as some stand mixers. The more powerful the mixer, the less work you have to do to get your recipe mixed, so carefully consider the types of things you’ll be using your mixer for. 

Speeds & Controls

Speeds range anywhere from 5- to 10-speed settings on most quality hand mixers. The greater the number of speeds your mixer has, the broader the range of control you’ll have during the mixing process. Speed controls vary from digital readouts with buttons to speed dials to lever controls. 

Mixers that come with a low or slow start feature (or several low speeds to get the mixing going) are incredibly helpful. A cloud of flour or cocoa powder flying out of your bowl the moment you turn the mixer on isn't the way to kick off any baking project. For a little boost of power, many mixers include a "turbo" button that helps power through tough spots in your batter or finish off a mix quickly. 

Beaters and attachments typically release with a button or lever. A few mixers include a timer or counter to conveniently track your mixing time for precise recipes. The Breville Handy Mix Scraper Hand Mixer even has a built-in light that illuminates the bowl below for an easier look at what you’re mixing. 

Comfort & Weight

Not to be overlooked, the comfort and weight of a hand mixer are as important as any other feature of the mixer—after all, you have to hold the machine up with your own strength. Hand mixers are intentionally designed with lightweight motors and gears, and they range from 2 to 4 pounds total. Most people prefer a hand mixer on the lighter end: between 2 to 3 pounds. 

Some hand mixers are ergonomically designed for a comfortable and secure grip. Curved handles with non-slip, padded, or silicone grips make it easier to handle your mixer while it’s working. Several mixers also stand or balance on their own when you need to put the mixer down for a minute. 

Storage

Almost all quality hand mixers come with some kind of storage option these days. The most popular storage solution includes a clip-on base that all of the attachments and power cord get stored in, with the mixer body on top. This saves you from the hassle of rummaging through your random silverware drawer for the right attachments and is a little less awkward for cabinet storage. Other options include a storage bag or storage case to help keep everything in one place. 

FAQs

What can you make with a hand mixer? 

Hand mixers are built for medium-duty mixing of foods that would be too difficult or time-consuming to mix by hand, but not so difficult as to require specialty mixing equipment, like a stand mixer. Most home cooks use a hand mixer for common baking projects like creaming butter and sugar for soft cookies and cake batters, whipping cream and egg whites, and making very soft doughs — like cinnamon rolls. Hand mixers can also be used for quick savory projects, like whipping mashed potatoes, shredding cooked chicken, mixing dips, and gently bringing soups together. 

Are hand mixer beaters universal? 

Hand mixer beaters are not universal. Occasionally a specific brand will make the same style of beaters for multiple hand mixer models. While many beater attachments look very similar, there are usually slight differences that can affect how the beaters attach to the mixer. If you need to replace the beaters for your hand mixer, the best place to check for replacement parts is directly with the manufacturer to ensure a proper fit.

What kind of bowls can you use a hand mixer with?

Hand mixers can be used with just about any bowl. The sturdiest bowls to use hand mixers with are stainless steel bowls, followed by tempered glass bowls. Both of these types of bowls can easily withstand the wear and tear of the beater attachments hitting up against the sides of the bowl with minor if any, damage. When using plastic, melamine, or wooden bowls, the beater attachments may leave marks on the sides of the bowl, so you may need to toss the bowl after prolonged use if the beaters start to chip off any bowl material. 

Ceramic bowls are okay to use with a hand mixer but are not quite as strong as tempered glass. While chipping and breaking aren’t very common, it’s still possible. Beaters may also chip off some of the finish or glaze of delicate ceramic bowls. If you’re using plastic, melamine, wood, or ceramic bowls, consider purchasing a hand mixer with plastic or silicone-coated beaters to help protect your bowls.

Can you use a hand mixer instead of an immersion blender? 

Hand mixers and immersion blenders are inherently different tools and are typically used for different purposes. You cannot use a hand mixer to blend a perfectly smooth soup, cream, or sauce. If you’re using an immersion blender to make salad dressing, you may be able to make it with a hand mixer instead, but it’s likely to be a messier process. At best, a hand mixer can be used to help break foods down, but it will seldom give you the perfectly smooth products you’ll get with an immersion blender. Conversely, an immersion blender cannot make cookie dough, cake batter, or doughs. 

How do you shred chicken with a hand mixer?

You can shred chicken with a hand mixer as long as you follow a few simple guidelines. You want to shred the chicken with the beater or dough hook attachments on the lowest setting while the chicken is still warm and tender. If there are any large chicken pieces, break them down by hand or with a fork before using the hand mixer. Instead of focusing the mixer on one area, make sure to move the mixer around to hit all of the chicken. If your hand mixer has a pulse setting, that’s even better. Working the chicken on a low or pulse setting will help prevent turning your chicken into whipped chicken or chicken pâté.

Why Trust The Spruce Eats?

Donna Currie is a food writer and product tester for The Spruce Eats and she also has her own cookbook, Make Ahead Bread, a cookbook meant to simplify the bread-baking process.

Stacey L. Nash is a product tester for The Spruce Eats and personally put four of the hand mixers on this list to the test in her own kitchen, using them to whip up chocolate chip cookies, bread dough, and rice pudding, and evaluating factors like power, design, and features.

This round-up was updated by Jenny Kellerhals, who also wrote the accompanying buying guide. Jenny has been a professional pastry chef in New York City for over 10 years and has first-hand experience with a wide range of professional and home appliances. Her cabinet space is limited, so only the most reliable equipment makes the cut.