KitchenAid 6 Speed Hand Mixer KHM6118CU Review Flex Edge Beaters Performance Test

Description

Compact Design and Ergonomic Comfort

I wasn’t expecting the KitchenAid 6 Speed Hand Mixer with Flex Edge Beaters (KHM6118) to feel so well-designed when I first picked it up. The compact, lightweight build makes it perfect for those quick mixing jobs without feeling cumbersome. While testing it, I noticed how the ergonomic handle fit snugly in my hand, reducing strain even during longer mixing sessions. The 2-pound weight made it easy to maneuver, especially when switching between bowls or tackling different recipes.

The silver finish is sleek and modern, fitting perfectly into my kitchen aesthetic. While it doesn’t take up much counter space, I’ve found the integrated storage clip to be a lifesaver for keeping the accessories organized. No more digging through drawers to find beaters or attachments!

Performance and Speed Options

It’s rare to find a hand mixer that offers such versatility in speed control. The six-speed settings on this mixer cover everything from gently folding in chocolate chips at speed one to whipping up fluffy meringues at speed six. I tested it on cookie dough, mashed potatoes, and even whipped cream, and it handled each task with ease.

The push-button controls are straightforward, making it simple to adjust the speed mid-mix without any hiccups. I also appreciated how the motor, despite being just 60 watts, provided consistent power without overheating. For something compact, it packs quite a punch.

Flex Edge Beaters: A Game Changer

The Flex Edge Beaters are unlike any other attachments I’ve used before. These silicon-edged beaters provide double the surface area compared to traditional metal beaters, which translates to faster and more thorough mixing. I noticed a significant reduction in the need to scrape down the sides of the bowl, which is always a tedious task.

During my cookie dough test, the beaters didn’t just mix efficiently; they also managed to incorporate every last bit of flour and butter from the sides and bottom of the bowl. This feature alone could save so much time during baking prep.

Accessories and Features

This mixer isn’t just about the basics; it includes some thoughtful extras that make it stand out. The Pro Whisk Attachment is perfect for whipping egg whites to soft or stiff peaks. I tested this while making a lemon meringue pie, and the results were fluffy and consistent.

The detachable spindle is a small but practical feature, making cleanup a breeze. The fact that most parts are dishwasher safe is another bonus for anyone who hates hand-washing utensils (I’m certainly in that camp).

Key Benefits

• Compact and lightweight design, ideal for everyday mixing needs.
• Six-speed settings provide versatility for a variety of recipes.
• Flex Edge Beaters reduce the need for manual scraping and speed up mixing.
• Integrated storage clip keeps all accessories organized and easy to find.

Areas for Improvement

Despite its many strengths, this product isn’t perfect. Here are a few downsides I noticed:

• The 60-watt motor, while sufficient for most tasks, might struggle with very dense doughs.
• The plastic exterior, though lightweight, doesn’t feel as durable as I’d like for a long-term kitchen companion.
• It lacks a slow start function, which could help prevent splattering when mixing liquids.

Competing Products

Hand mixers are a competitive market, and I’ve tried a few alternatives worth mentioning. The Cuisinart HM-90S is a popular choice, offering a more robust motor at 220 watts and a wider range of speed options. However, it’s noticeably heavier, which can make extended use less comfortable.

The Hamilton Beach 62682RZ is another contender, boasting a similar lightweight design and six speeds. While it’s more budget-friendly, its beaters don’t offer the same flex edge technology, which I found to be a standout feature on the KitchenAid model.

Where this KitchenAid mixer excels is in its thoughtful design and innovative attachments, which provide a more user-friendly experience without sacrificing performance.

Value for Money

Let’s talk about whether this product offers bang for the buck. While it’s not the cheapest hand mixer on the market, the quality of the attachments, the integrated storage, and the consistent performance justify the investment. It’s clear that this isn’t just a throwaway item; it’s designed to last and make everyday kitchen tasks easier.

Compared to pricier models with similar features, I’d say this mixer hits the sweet spot between affordability and functionality. It works well for casual bakers like myself, but even more serious cooks might appreciate its efficiency and ease of use.

Additional information