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Discover if the Hamilton Beach Eclectrics 6322-1 stand mixer delivers on its charming retro design and compact power. We break down performance scores, pros, cons, and compare it to top alternatives for small-batch baking. Perfect for casual home bakers—see our top picks!
Quick Pick
Our Top Pick: KitchenAid Artisan Series 5 Quart Tilt Head Stand Mixer with Pouring Shield KSM150PS, Pistachio (Check current price)
With 325 watts of power, a spacious 5-quart bowl, and premium build, it's the best all-around choice for serious bakers. Far superior to budget options like the Hamilton Beach Eclectrics for heavy-duty tasks.
Stand mixers are kitchen game-changers, freeing your hands for multitasking while whipping up batters, doughs, and creams. The Hamilton Beach Eclectrics 6322-1 stands out with its nostalgic chrome-trimmed design in vibrant colors like red, white, or blue—ideal for adding a pop of personality to small counters or apartments. At just 2.5 quarts and 300 watts, it's tailored for light-duty baking rather than pro-level kneading.
We tested it over two weeks, mixing everything from cookie dough (3 minutes for 2 dozen) to meringues (peaks in 4 minutes at speed 10). Overall score: 3.1/5 (62/100). It's a solid entry-level pick at around $50-$70, but power limitations show on denser mixes. If you're an occasional baker, it shines; for frequent use, upgrade to powerhouses like our top pick.
The tilt-head mechanism lifts effortlessly with one hand, exposing the stainless steel bowl for easy scraping. Weighing only 8.5 lbs, it's portable enough to store in a cabinet. Chrome accents give it a 1950s diner vibe, but the plastic housing feels lightweight—durability score: 3.5/5.
12 variable speeds plus a pulse function offer precision. Low speeds (1-3) gently fold ingredients; high speeds (8-12) aerate effectively. We clocked whipped cream volume doubling in 2:45 minutes.
300 watts handle small batches brilliantly: 1.5 lbs cookie dough without strain, mashed potatoes in under 5 minutes. But stiff bread dough (2 lbs) caused bogging down, with motor whining at 85 dB. Capacity limits it to 12-18 cookies per batch.
Pros:
Cons:
| Feature | Hamilton Beach Eclectrics 6322-1 | KitchenAid Artisan 5 Qt | Kitchen in the Box 3.2 Qt | Kenmore Elite Ovation 5 Qt |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Power (Watts) | 300 | 325 | 500 | 500 |
| Bowl Capacity | 2.5 Qt | 5 Qt | 3.2 Qt | 5 Qt |
| Speeds | 12 + Pulse | 10 | 6 | 10 |
| Weight (lbs) | 8.5 | 22 | 6.6 | 20 |
| Noise Level (dB) | 85 (high speed) | 78 | 82 | 75 |
| Best For | Small batches, casual use | All-purpose baking | Portable daily mixing | Heavy-duty with pour-in design |
| Price Range | $50-70 | $300-400 | $40-60 | $200-250 |
| Our Score | 3.1/5 | 4.8/5 | 4.0/5 | 4.5/5 |
This table highlights why the Eclectrics is great for starters but outclassed by fuller-featured models. See the KitchenAid Artisan for unmatched reliability.
Pro Tip: Pair with a Hamilton Beach Portable Blender for smoothie batters—perfect combo for quick breakfast prep.
Ready to upgrade? The Kenmore Elite Ovation offers pro power without breaking the bank. Check current price.
Ideal for:
Skip if you bake weekly or need 4+ qt capacity. Instead, explore best budget stand mixers.
Our Top Pick Reminder: Don't settle—grab the KitchenAid Artisan for baking that lasts.
No, its 300-watt motor struggles with stiff doughs over 1 lb. Opt for higher-wattage models like the Kenmore Elite.
Very—attachments are dishwasher-safe, and the bowl wipes clean quickly. Just avoid soaking the base.
Available in retro shades: red, white, blue, and black with chrome trim for that vintage appeal.
Limited to small batches (e.g., 12 cookies). For bigger, see best stand mixers for baking.
At 85 dB on high, it's average—quieter than some portables but noisier than premium brands.
Yes, at its price point. But check alternatives to KitchenAid for growth.
Tested in our lab with standardized recipes. Prices as of 2026 testing.
