KitchenAid Artisan 5 Quart Tilt-Head Stand Mixer vs KitchenAid Classic Series 4.5 Quart Stand Mixer

Both are tilt-head KitchenAid mixers with metal bodies, 10 speeds and the same power hub for attachments. The Artisan is the stronger buy for most households: its 5-quart bowl handles bigger batches, its 325 W motor works through stiff dough more comfortably, and it comes in over 20 colors. The Classic K45SS is the lighter, smaller-footprint choice for small kitchens and light baking, but owners of both report the same tilt-head quirks and the Classic's smaller bowl and motor show their limits on heavy dough.

• Choose the Artisan if you bake bread, double batches or big cookie runs and want the larger bowl, more power and color choice.
• Choose the Classic K45SS if you bake modest batches, have limited counter space and want the core KitchenAid mixing setup.