rofessional commercial kitchen with a high-powered stand mixer blending dough in a stainless steel bowl, surrounded by fresh ingredients like eggs, flour, and butter, with chefs preparing baked goods in the background

February 28, 2025 Lisa Santorelli

Best Commercial Mixers at a Glance

Choosing the best all-round commercial mixer? Planetary mixers offer versatility, while spiral mixers excel at heavy dough. Need power and consistency? Brands like Hobart and BakeMax lead the industry. Want the perfect fit for your bakery or restaurant? Keep reading to find the best commercial mixer for your needs!

close-up of a commercial stand mixer kneading dough in a stainless steel bowl, surrounded by fresh ingredients like flour and eggs in a well-lit professional kitchen

Top Contenders

Stand Mixers

Stand mixers are a staple in commercial kitchens, built to handle the demands of high-volume baking and food preparation. These powerful machines use planetary motion to evenly mix ingredients, making them essential for bakeries, restaurants, and catering operations. Whether it's whipping up large batches of dough, creaming butter, or blending batters, stand mixers offer precision and efficiency. Brands like Hobart, BakeMax, Globe, and Varimixer provide some of the most reliable and durable models available in Canada. Their sturdy construction and high-powered motors make them an excellent choice for businesses looking for long-term performance.

Food Processors

Food processors are another must-have in commercial kitchens, offering speed and versatility beyond traditional mixing. They excel at chopping, pureeing, and emulsifying, making them perfect for preparing sauces, fillings, and even doughs. Some commercial food processors come with mixing attachments, allowing them to handle tasks typically done by stand mixers. For kitchens that require quick ingredient preparation, food processors from brands like Robot Coupe and Breville are widely available in Canada and known for their durability. Their efficiency in reducing prep time makes them a valuable addition to any fast-paced kitchen.

professional kitchen countertop displaying various commercial mixer attachments, including dough hooks, flat beaters, and wire whisks, neatly arranged with fresh ingredients in a clean, well-lit workspace

Key Features

Motor Power

A commercial mixer needs a powerful motor to keep up with the demands of continuous use and heavy mixtures. A higher wattage ensures smoother operation and prevents overheating during extended mixing sessions. Planetary mixers typically range from 0.5 to 2 horsepower, while heavy-duty spiral mixers often have even stronger motors for high-hydration doughs. Choosing the right motor power is key to maintaining efficiency and avoiding mechanical strain in a busy kitchen.

Attachments

The versatility of a commercial mixer comes down to its attachments. Standard options include dough hooks, flat beaters, and wire whisks, but many models offer additional accessories like meat grinders, vegetable slicers, and pasta rollers. Investing in a mixer with a variety of attachments allows kitchens to streamline multiple tasks using a single machine. This not only saves space but also boosts efficiency by reducing the need for extra appliances.

Capacity

Commercial mixers range from compact countertop models with 10-litre bowls to floor-standing machines capable of handling over 80 litres. The right capacity depends on the volume of production and available workspace. Smaller establishments may find mid-sized mixers sufficient, while large bakeries and restaurants benefit from industrial models that can handle bulk mixing without frequent refilling. Choosing a mixer that aligns with production needs prevents bottlenecks and improves workflow.

Ease of Use and Cleaning

In a fast-moving kitchen, ease of use is just as important as performance. Mixers with intuitive controls, variable speed settings, and automated timers simplify operation and reduce human error. Cleaning is another crucial factor—stainless steel bowls, removable attachments, and smooth surfaces help maintain hygiene and speed up daily maintenance. Kitchens that prioritize ease of use and cleaning can keep up with demand while ensuring food safety standards are met.

Durability

Commercial mixers are an investment, so durability is a top priority. Models with all-metal gears, reinforced frames, and high-quality components withstand the rigours of daily use. Brands like Hobart, Globe, and BakeMax are known for producing mixers that can endure years of heavy operation without frequent repairs. Choosing a well-built machine minimizes downtime and reduces maintenance costs in the long run.

Budget

Investing in a commercial mixer requires balancing cost with functionality. Entry-level models are more affordable but may lack advanced features or high-capacity capabilities. Premium mixers come with stronger motors, larger bowls, and multiple attachments, making them ideal for high-volume production. Assessing long-term needs and weighing the cost against performance ensures the best value for any kitchen. Brands such as Hobart, BakeMax, Globe, Varimixer, and Robot Coupe offer options across different price points, making it easier to find the right fit for any budget.

Selecting the right commercial mixer depends on production needs, available space, and financial considerations. Whether opting for a stand mixer for its versatility or a food processor for its speed, the right choice enhances efficiency and ensures consistent results. With durable brands readily available in Canada, businesses can invest in reliable equipment that meets their long-term demands.