professional commercial kitchen featuring a hand mixer, stand mixer, immersion blender, food processor, and a large commercial mixer in use, with two chefs preparing food in a well-lit and organized workspace with stainless steel countertops

February 25, 2025 Lisa Santorelli

Discovering the 3 Essential Mixer Types

Ever tried mixing cookie dough with a spoon? Exhausting, right? That’s why mixers exist! The three basic types—hand mixers, stand mixers, and commercial mixers—each have unique strengths. Whether you're whipping cream or kneading dough, picking the right one makes all the difference. Curious? Keep reading!

well-lit kitchen with pops of colour displaying a commercial hand mixer and a commercial stand mixer side by side on a stainless steel countertop, highlighting their differences in size and function

The Three Basic Types

Hand Mixers

Hand mixers are the go-to tool for quick and easy mixing. They are lightweight, compact, and perfect for whipping up cake batters, cookie dough, or fluffy whipped cream. With multiple speed settings, they offer control over mixing, making them an essential tool for home bakers. Unlike bulky stand mixers, they are easy to store and clean, making them ideal for small kitchens or occasional bakers.

One of the biggest perks of a hand mixer is its portability. You can mix ingredients directly in a bowl without needing a heavy-duty base. However, they do require constant handling, and they struggle with thick doughs or heavy mixtures. If you love baking but don’t need industrial power, a hand mixer is a reliable and affordable choice.

Stand Mixers

For those serious about baking, a stand mixer is a game-changer. These machines come with a sturdy base, a large mixing bowl, and a variety of attachments, allowing you to tackle everything from bread dough to delicate meringues. Since they operate hands-free, you can multitask while they do the work, making baking and cooking far more efficient.

Stand mixers shine when it comes to power and consistency. Thick doughs, large batches, and time-consuming recipes become effortless. While they take up more counter space and are a bigger investment, their versatility makes them worth it. Some models even come with attachments that let you make pasta, grind meat, or spiralize vegetables. If you bake frequently, a stand mixer will quickly become your favourite kitchen companion.

well-lit kitchen with pops of colour featuring three different types of commercial mixers: a hand mixer, an immersion blender, and a food processor, arranged on a stainless steel countertop with modern decor

Other Types and Considerations

Immersion Blenders

Immersion blenders, or stick blenders, are perfect for soups, sauces, and smoothies. Instead of transferring ingredients to a blender, you can blend them right in the pot or bowl. This eliminates extra dishes and speeds up the cooking process, making them a favourite for busy home cooks.

Their compact size makes them easy to store, and they are simple to clean with detachable, dishwasher-safe parts. While they work wonders for purees and liquids, they aren’t built for thick doughs or heavy mixing. If you love making creamy soups or silky dressings, an immersion blender is a must-have.

Food Processors

Food processors are the ultimate kitchen multitaskers. They chop, slice, grate, and mix, making meal prep incredibly fast and efficient. Whether you’re dicing vegetables, shredding cheese, or blending ingredients for a sauce, a food processor takes the effort out of food prep.

Unlike mixers, food processors are designed for cutting and grinding rather than aerating. They can mix dough but won’t provide the same results as a stand mixer. If you frequently chop, shred, or make sauces, this machine will be a lifesaver in the kitchen.

Commercial Mixers

For those running bakeries, restaurants, or catering businesses, a commercial mixer is essential. These heavy-duty machines can handle massive batches, ensuring consistent results even with high-volume production. Built to withstand constant use, they are powerful, durable, and efficient.

Unlike household mixers, commercial mixers are designed for large-scale operations. They come in various sizes, from countertop models to massive floor mixers used in industrial kitchens. While they aren’t practical for home use, they are a must-have for any business that relies on high-volume mixing.

Choosing the right mixer depends on how often you bake or cook, the type of recipes you make, and the amount of space you have. Whether you need a simple hand mixer or a commercial-grade powerhouse, the right tool will make all the difference in your kitchen.