Breville BEM800XL 5 Qt. Die-Cast Stand Mixer SKU: #7682205

Martha d

from charleston, sc

Growing up there was always a KitchenAid mixer on the counter. I owned 2 over the last 30 years. I took the risk and bought the Breville after much research. It has some features that are really great. First, at 16 pounds it is much easier to lift than the KitchenAid but heavy enough to not "walk" across the counter when kneading bread dough. The handle on the front is great and makes it easy to store this mixer in a cupboard. The timer is one of my favorite features. I was surprised how quickly I came to depend on it. The cord storage is easy to use,and again it aids in easy storage. The other features like the bowl, beaters, and shield are not any different than other brands. There is enough power for a bread recipe that uses 6 cups of flour. Couple of things I could improve on...the bowl wedges too tightly and can be hard to remove until you figure out how to not twist it all the way into the lock, the beater cannot be raised with just one hand (you have to hold down the button and lift with the other hand), and I wish there was a glass bowl available. Would I buy this again...absolutely. The pluses outweigh the minuses.

Brands I'd also recommend: KitchenAid

Anonymous

Set out to buy a KitchenAid which seemed like a safe bet considering their reputation and everyone seems to have one. But after researching the different KA models, I found that I like the higher end model for the stronger motor and all metal attachments, and liked the Artisan (smaller) model for the tilted head. Hence the Breville - a strong motor, all metal attachments, tilted head plus a timer! I also love that the speeds tell you what you are doing: whip, cream, beat, vs KA that just has number speeds; since recipes are always telling you to 'cream' or 'beat', I finally know that I am mixing at the correct speed. Unlike the other reviewer, I love that you have to press the button to tilt and release, it locks the head into position, which the KA does not do. I've only had it for a few months, so I can't yet speak about longevity, but I can tell you it is amazingly efficient; no matter what attachment I've used, all the ingredients are well incorporated. (When I tilt the head up to scrape the sides, there's nothing there to scrape - with all attachments, not just the scraper beater! It's amazing!) With that being said, it is a bit difficult to work around the attachments when trying to add ingredients during mixing, because the attachments really do cover the entire bowl. Not a big problem, just takes a little more care and effort. (The shield helps, but I don't love the shield.) I should also mention, that while I like the cord storage option, I have read reviews that complained about the cord getting stuck in the machine. Noticing myself that the cord isn't easily stored, you have to keep pushing it in, I don't bother trying. It's really not worth the aggravation of having it get stuck. I am so very happy I got the Breville and don't have an ounce of regret. It is also a visually stunning, modern looking appliance.

Anonymous

from NYC metro area

Clean and classic look, great in any kitchen, unobtrusive and easily stored in small corner, effortlessly pulled out on the counter. Medium-lightweight is solid but not burdensome. May shift or vibrate slightly with heavy pizza dough and bread (I have done both) and it did not power itself down to cool the motor. I rested the dough in between short kneadings, which works better anyway. So far so good, have had it 2 months and it is a dream for baking. Breville gives you an extra paddle with silicone edging and a sleek spatula that I use all the time. Whipping egg whites, making Italian meringue is unbelievable. The non-baker in your house will be fascinated and want to help. Zappos was great and sent it right out -- only wish they had put some wrapping inside their outer Zappos box because the Breville box was tossed around a bit. But I got it next day so all was well. I shouldn't complain about such such good service, I ended up ordering on phone and the person I spoke to was very informed and impressive and excellent all around. So, I am hoping this Breville never dies. So far, I have nothing but wonderful things to say. I don't like the million Kitchen Aid models and how the cheaper ones burn up. I feel more secure with this choice, and although I like the retro look of Kitchen Aid, this fits in spaces better and has a well balanced design. Guys love it. Cuisinarts and Vikings are just ugly. Breville gives you lots of concentrated power! Last thing -- it makes baking so much neater. Not a mess like it used to be. Cleaning up kitchen while baking is no longer a hassle. This makes everything so easy. Makes others happy because you'll be bringing them gifts. I'm glad I finally decided on this one.

Anonymous

from ca

It is very good looking. Works better than others, very easy to clean. Looks great and clean on your kitchen table, simply beautiful in every case.