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The Kenmore KKHM5 stand mixer delivers reliable performance at $200, earning a 68/100 score in our tests. Great for convenience and quiet operation, but fair mixing power. Discover if it's right for you, plus top alternatives like KitchenAid models for serious bakers.
Quick Pick: Our Top Recommendation
For unmatched power and versatility, go with the KitchenAid Artisan Series 5 Quart Tilt Head Stand Mixer with Pouring Shield KSM150PS, Pistachio. It's a baking powerhouse with superior mixing results. Check current price
In the world of stand mixers, finding a balance between affordability and functionality is key, especially for home bakers on a budget. The Kenmore KKHM5, priced around $200, is a 5-quart model that punches above its weight in convenience and noise control. Our lab tests gave it an overall score of 68/100, making it a solid entry-level choice for whipping up cake batter, kneading dough, or mashing potatoes without breaking the bank.
We evaluated it against premium competitors, focusing on real-world tasks like creaming butter (achieved smooth texture in 4:32 minutes), bread dough kneading (handled 2 lbs of dough adequately), and ease of bowl removal (top-rated at 5/5). At 23 lbs and compact dimensions of 17.1 x 9.8 x 14.2 inches, it's easy to store and maneuver on most countertops.
See the best budget stand mixers of 2026 for more options like this one.
We pitted the Kenmore KKHM5 against leading models to highlight key differences. Here's how they stack up based on our testing data:
| Feature | Kenmore KKHM5 | KitchenAid Artisan 5 Qt (Pistachio) | Culinary Chef 4.75 Qt (Silver) | KitchenAid 7 Qt Bowl-Lift |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 5 qt | 5 qt | 4.75 qt | 7 qt |
| Power (HP) | 0.67 | 0.5 (325W) | 0.6 | 1.3 |
| Weight | 23 lbs | 22 lbs | 20 lbs | 25 lbs |
| Dimensions (HWD) | 17.1 x 9.8 x 14.2 in | 13.9 x 8.7 x 14 in | 14 x 9 x 13 in | 16.5 x 11.1 x 14.6 in |
| Noise Level | Good (4/5) | Excellent (5/5) | Good (4/5) | Very Good (4.5/5) |
| Overall Score | 68/100 | 92/100 | 85/100 | 95/100 |
| Price Range | ~$200 | $350-$450 | $150-$250 | $500+ |
| Warranty | 1 year | 1 year | 2 years | 1 year |
This table shows the Kenmore's value in everyday use, but premium picks like the KitchenAid models excel in heavy-duty tasks.
Check current price on KitchenAid 7 Quart Bowl-Lift Empire Red for large batches.
With a 0.67 HP motor, the KKHM5 handles basic tasks well but struggles with dense doughs. In our tests:
Speed control is fair (3/5), with 10 settings that feel incremental but not precise for delicate frostings.
This is where it shines (5/5). The tilt-head design allows effortless access, and the 5 qt stainless steel bowl detaches with one hand. Cleanup is straightforward—dishwasher-safe attachments rinse in under 2 minutes. At just 23 lbs, it's lighter than many rivals, ideal for small kitchens.
Operating at a good 4/5 noise level (around 75 dB on high), it's quieter than budget competitors. The 1-year warranty covers basics, but our endurance test (200 minutes continuous) showed no overheating.
Pros of Kenmore KKHM5:
Cons of Kenmore KKHM5:
If you're a casual baker, it's a winner. For pros, upgrade to something beefier.
While the Kenmore is budget-friendly, here are superior options:
KitchenAid Artisan Series 5 Quart Tilt Head Stand Mixer with Pouring Shield KSM150PS, Pistachio scores 92/100 with precise 10-speed control and iconic design. Perfect for cookies to bread—handles 9 dozen cookies per batch.
Pros: Superior build, vast accessory ecosystem, quiet. Cons: Higher price, heavier for some.
The CULINARY CHEF 4.5L Retro Stand Mixer (Silver), 4.75 quart offers great value at 85/100, with a retro look and strong motor for under $250.
Pros: Stylish, powerful for price, easy to clean. Cons: Slightly smaller bowl.
For big jobs, the KitchenAid® 7 Quart Bowl-Lift Stand Mixer Empire Red Mixer dominates with 1.3 HP (95/100 score).
Explore best alternatives to KitchenAid stand mixers in 2026 or best stand mixers for baking of 2026.
Our protocol mirrors real kitchens: 4 lbs whipped cream, 4.5 cups cake batter, 2 lbs dough, and potato mashing. We measure time to peak, texture uniformity (via viscosity tests), noise (dB meter), and user ergonomics (blind trials). Over 50 hours per model ensures data-driven insights.
Read our Ultimate Kitchen Appliance Buying Guide for more.
Pair your mixer with essentials:
It's fair for small loaves (up to 1.5 lbs dough), but upgrade to KitchenAid for denser recipes.
Rated 4/5—about 75 dB on high, quieter than most budgets.
5 quarts, ideal for 4-9 dozen cookies or 2 loaf pans of batter.
Yes: flat beater, wire whip, dough hook—all dishwasher-safe.
Yes for beginners at $200, but consider KitchenAid Artisan for longevity.
Kenmore wins on price/convenience; KitchenAid on power and precision.
