The Kitchen Aid 5 quart mixer is part of the popular Artisan product line. This model is a favorite amongst occasional users, who admire its sharp design and pleasing color options.
However, cooks who plan to use their Kitchen Aide stand mixer frequently to make bread dough or blend heavy batters should think twice before buying an Artisan. While it is an attractive mixer, it leaves much to be desired as far as power and performance is concerned.
Users often report that the Artisan stand mixer makes loud noises, 'walks' on the counter, or simply stops working when it is put to heavy use. The gear box in the motor is apparently constructed from plastic, which overheats quite easily and causes the mixer to malfunction. This doesn't present a problem with light mixing tasks, but can cripple the mixer if you try to grind wheat, knead dough or blend heavy ingredients.
For tougher mixing with professional results, a potential buyer would be better off upgrading to a Professional Kitchen Aid model. The 6 quart mixer, for example, hasn't experienced the same issues as the Artisan. Overall, customers seem happier with the results they achieve using the slightly larger and more powerful model. To get a good idea of how other people have enjoyed their stand mixer, as well as any potential problems that could occur, there are a number of helpful sites you can visit. The Kitchen Aid forum allows past purchasers and potential buyers to post messages about their products. You can also exchange helpful tips and recipes at Kitchen Aid.com.
Most major online retailers also offer a review and rating section for buyers. You can read positive and negative feedback from other stand mixer buyers before making your own selection. These forums are very helpful tools for any cook looking to add a new stand mixer to their kitchen equipment line-up.