What’s inside this buyer’s guide
- Introduction
- Types of commercial mixers
- Styles of commercial mixers
- How to choose a commercial mixer?
- Commercial mixer features to consider
- Electricity requirements
- Commercial mixer safety features
- Commercial mixer attachments and accessories
- Commercial mixer PTO hub attachments
- The best commercial mixers
- Frequently asked questions
- Commercial mixer glossary
- Keep your cash, use ours!
Whether you're crafting a velvety batter for decadent Mississippi mud pie, laboring over the dough for your signature sourdough bread, or simply dicing a lot of veggies — a robust commercial mixer can help you turn humble ingredients into the perfect base for mouthwatering delights.
Contrary to domestic mixers, commercial versions are engineered to cater to the heavy-duty requirements of busy commercial kitchens.
They are versatile, capable of blending, kneading, grinding, cutting, and grating - excelling at a wide range of kitchen tasks.
They not only save precious time but also boost productivity and enhance efficiency.
This comprehensive buyer’s handbook will tell you about the various types and styles of commercial mixers, factors to ponder before acquiring one, and help you choose from top commercial mixers on the market.
Types of commercial mixers
In America’s commercial food scene, spiral and planetary mixers stand as the most prevalent variants.
However, there are specialized mixers designed to conduct specific tasks with utmost proficiency.
Each of these mixers boasts distinct attributes, pros, and potential drawbacks.
Spiral mixers
Commercial spiral mixers, also known as dough mixers, are primarily used for kneading dough.
They feature a spiral-shaped agitator and a mixing bowl that rotates around it.
These mixers effortlessly handle substantial volumes of dough while preserving its quality.
The dough is kneaded gently, minimizing friction heat, thereby facilitating better fermentation.
Commercial spiral mixers offer various speed settings for enhanced accuracy. These are favored by bakeries and pizzerias that deal with significant dough volumes daily.
They are also preferred for all food businesses that specialize in dough-based artisanal cuisine.
However, their versatility is limited due to their single, fixed attachment, purpose-built for kneading dough and thick batters.
Planetary mixers
Planetary mixers consist of an agitator that orbits in a planetary motion (rotates around its own axis while simultaneously circling the bowl, mirroring the movement of planets around the sun), which ensures thorough mixing of the contents in the stationary bowl.
Stand mixers or cake mixers follow the same mechanism.
These mixers are typically equipped with multiple interchangeable attachments, including but not limited to, beaters, dough hooks, and wire whisks to carry out a variety of preparation tasks.
Some models even offer additional attachments like graters, grinders, and slicers.
Owing to their remarkable versatility, planetary mixers are extremely popular in commercial kitchens, particularly those that require more than simple dough-kneading operations.
Other commercial mixers
Vertical cutter mixers
Renowned for swiftly chopping and blending large quantities of ingredients, vertical cutter mixers are equipped with a covered bowl and an agitator.
Some models offer replaceable attachments to perform diverse tasks.
From chopping vegetables and mincing meat to kneading dough and pureeing soups and sauces, they can do it all.
Horizontal mixers
Horizontal mixers are industrial-grade machines designed to manage massive dough quantities, making them ideal for big bakeries and similar commercial kitchen setups.
They offer a variety of replaceable mixing arms, tailored to knead dough of varying thicknesses and quality.
Gigamix
The Gigamix is a unique type of mixer, designed for mass production.
It has the capacity to process nearly 600 pounds of food in one batch.
For easy mobility, they typically come with a trolley.
Styles of commercial mixers
Commercial mixers come in three styles, determined by their placement.
The choice among these should be influenced by the space available in your kitchen and volume demand.
Countertop/benchtop mixers
These compactly designed mixers find their space easily on countertops or benches and are a perfect match for establishments with low-volume needs.
Efficiently stirring, whipping, or kneading small quantities of batter, eggs, or dough, these compact mixers usually come with a bowl size of roughly 10 liters or less.
Stand mixers
Commercial stand mixers provide greater bowl capacity (around 20 liters or more) and power.
Their mixing capability rivals floor mixers but without occupying much space. Stand mixers are typically suitable for both general and intensive mixing applications.
Floor mixers
Floor mixers are optimal for strenuous use in large-volume commercial kitchens.
Boasting larger bowl sizes (usually 30 liters or more) and more powerful (or multiple) motors, these commercial mixers provide superb stability and free up valuable counter space.
How to choose a commercial mixer?
What will you be mixing?
A commercial mixer for whipping egg whites or light cake batter will not be able to knead thick pizza dough efficiently.
Dough and batter for different items will naturally have different consistencies, and any typical mixer will not be able to handle all types of mixing needs.
Find out the absorption ratio (AR) of the mixes you will prepare most frequently and get a mixer that is designed to handle mixes of a similar absorption ratio.
To determine the AR of your mixes, divide the water weight (the amount of water you will add to the mix) by the flour weight (the amount of flour you will add to the mix).
If the Absorption Ratio (AR) is on the lower side, a more powerful mixer becomes necessary.
As a rule, mixtures with less than 50% AR should not need the second speed of a mixer to mix it properly.
Also, if your mixture has more fat or uses cold water, you will need a more powerful commercial mixer machine.
How much mixing will you do?
You should determine the volume and frequency of your mixing needs to find the right model.
A five-liter mixer could suffice for a small takeaway with non-bakery items.
However, for bakeries or pizza shops making daily dough batches, a larger, more robust model will be needed.
Keep in mind, the mixer bowl cannot be filled to the brim.
Also, if the flour has higher protein content, less water, or more fat you will have to mix it in smaller batches.
Commercial mixer features to consider
To shortlist the right commercial mixer for your business, consider the following features.
Bowl size
The bowl's capacity determines the volume of ingredients a commercial mixer can handle at once.
While high-end mixers typically have bowls that match their maximum capacity, it might not be the same for cheaper models.
It's important to choose a bowl size that meets your needs. If the bowl is too small, it may struggle to keep up with demand, leading to overfilling, inadequate mixing, and potential safety issues.
Conversely, using a bowl that is too large for your requirements will waste capacity and increase electricity and maintenance costs.
Select a bowl size that strikes the right balance for efficient and cost-effective operation.
Bowl lift
Commercial mixers come with either manual or electric bowl lift systems.
Mixers with manual bowl lifts typically have a lever or wheel which helps to raise or lower the bowl.
In some smaller, countertop models, the upper part of the mixer, including the agitator tilts backward for easy access to the mixing bowl.
In larger industrial mixers, the electric bowl lift system is more common.
Here an electricity-powered system is used for lifting the bowl automatically with the press of a button.
Fixed bowl vs. removable bowl
A fixed or stationary bowl mixer refers to a type where the bowl, while capable of rotation, is not detachable.
This type of mixer, often a spiral variant, is commonly found in small-scale bakery operations.
On the other hand, a replaceable or removable bowl mixer allows for the bowl to be exchanged with another.
This feature reduces the time spent on loading and unloading.
For expansive commercial kitchen environments, large-scale replaceable bowl mixers equipped with electric bowl lifts are the perfect fit.
Motor power
An industrial mixer's capacity is determined by its motor power.
Powerful motors are used in mixers that handle heavy dough batches regularly.
You can mix close to a full bowl without jamming or overheating the equipment. Smaller mixers with lower horsepower efficiently handle tasks like whisking and mixing lighter ingredients.
Depending on the mixing power, a mixer can be either standard-duty or heavy-duty.
A standard-duty model works best for small to medium-volume mixing needs.
They are ideal for whipping up cream, batter and can even knead pizza dough infrequently when used at a low speed.
The heavy-duty models, on the other hand, are designed for high-volume needs and can efficiently handle thick batter and dough continuously.
For instance, a 10-liter standard-duty countertop mixer generally has a 1/2hp motor, while a 50-liter heavy-duty floor mixer typically needs a motor of 3hp or more.
Some heavy-duty mixers even feature multiple motors for enhanced performance.
Drive system
Commercial mixers utilize one of the three types of drive systems: belt drive, gear drive, and variable-frequency drive (VFD).
Belt-drive systems provide a wide range of speed choices and usually support on-the-fly speed adjustments.
However, they require more maintenance and are susceptible to "belt slip", which is more common in cheaper models.
Gear-drive systems offer greater power and require less maintenance but lack the ability to change speeds without turning off the mixer machine.
They also have fewer speed options and are noisier and more expensive to repair.
Some more advanced models feature a variable-frequency drive, offering multiple speed options, on-the-fly speed adjustment, and enhanced reliability with minimal maintenance requirements.
Mixer speed
Industrial mixers with multiple speed settings allow for precise control over mixing.
Entry-level mixers typically offer one to three-speed settings, while some high-end models can provide up to 12-speed levels.
Achieving precision becomes more challenging in mixers without shift-on-the-fly support.
High-end mixers equipped with variable-frequency drives offer numerous speed choices and swift on-the-fly speed changes for superior precision.
A feature like soft-start agitation is also beneficial for kneading high-quality dough.
Controls
In commercial mixers, you get either manual or digital controls.
Manual controls are straightforward, but digital controls offer enhanced precision.
Some models can even be programmed to automatically change speed or stop after a specific duration.
This ensures consistent quality across multiple batches and frees up your staff for other tasks.
Electricity requirements
The electrical connection requirements of an industrial mixer are determined by its motor power. In the US, standard residential voltage is 120V, while commercial appliances often require 208V or 240V.
Compact, countertop mixers may be plugged into a standard single-phase electrical outlet.
However, for larger and more powerful models, you will require a dedicated three-phase connection to the power circuit.
Before purchasing a mixer, it is important to ensure that your kitchen meets the necessary electrical requirements specified by the manufacturer.
Safety features
Mixer safety features are essential in reducing the risk of accidents and injuries.
To ensure peace of mind, opt for commercial mixers that are UL and CSA certified.
Some fundamental safety features for industrial mixers include:
Footpads
A basic safety feature that prevents the mixer from sliding during operation.
Bowl guards
Plays a crucial role in preventing objects or clothing from coming into contact with the agitator while it is in motion.
Thermal overload protection
This feature automatically powers down the machine if the heat produced crosses a specific threshold.
No-volt release
A safety feature that prevents automatic motor activation following a power failure. A user should switch it on manually once the power is restored.
Commercial mixer attachments and accessories
Commercial mixers are versatile kitchen equipment, and their functionality is amplified by a range of attachments and accessories.
Each accessory serves a unique purpose, enhancing the mixer's utility and efficiency.
Dough hook
- This spiral-shaped attachment is a baker's best friend. It kneads dough efficiently, saving time and effort.
- It's perfect for making bread, pizza dough, and other yeast-based products.
Wire whisk
- The wire whisk is ideal for incorporating air into mixtures.
- It's used for whipping cream, beating eggs, and creating light, fluffy batters.
Flat beater
- The flat beater is a multi-purpose attachment.
- It's used for mixing cake batter, mashing potatoes, and combining other dense mixtures.
Pastry knife
- The pastry knife is designed for cutting fats into flour to make pie crusts and pastries.
- It ensures the fat is evenly distributed, resulting in a flaky texture.
Bowl scraper
- This accessory is designed to scrape the sides of the bowl, ensuring all ingredients are incorporated.
- It eliminates the need to stop the mixer and scrape the bowl manually.
Pouring chute
- The pouring chute allows for the addition of ingredients while the mixer is running, minimizing mess and ensuring a smooth, even mix.
Commercial mixer PTO hub attachments
Commercial mixers with Power Take Off (PTO) hubs offer enhanced versatility, enabling the use of various attachments for diverse culinary tasks.
Some of the popular PTO hub attachments in commercial kitchens include the following.
Grater/Shredder
This attachment is a boon for kitchens that need to process large quantities of cheese or vegetables.
It simplifies the grating and shredding process, ensuring consistency and efficiency.
Meat Chopper/Grinder
This attachment is essential for establishments that prepare their own ground meat.
It easily grinds fresh meat to the desired coarseness, ensuring quality and freshness.
Vegetable Slicer
It is a time-saver for kitchens that require large volumes of uniformly sliced vegetables.
It ensures precision and uniformity, enhancing presentation and cooking times.
PTO hub attachments for commercial mixers streamline kitchen operations, improve efficiency, and ensure consistency in food preparation.
They are a valuable addition to any commercial kitchen.
Best commercial mixers
Globe
Globe Food Equipment, a name synonymous with reliability and high performance, has a rich history that dates back to 1921.
Today, Globe is more than just a brand; it's a promise of excellence consistently delivered.
The company offers a wide range of best-in-class slicers, mixers, and scales, along with a competitive array of other commercial kitchen equipment.
Globe’s commercial mixers are pricy but they boast the best-in-class technology, sturdy construction, and best-in-industry warranty.
The collection covers both planetary and spiral mixers of different sizes and specifications to meet diverse needs.
Among its most popular models is the SP20 20-quart planetary stand mixer.
This compact and powerful model makes a great choice for medium-sized establishments serving a diverse range of menus.
For small businesses with low-volume requirements, the SP5 5-quart countertop mixer works best.
The heavy-duty spiral mixers, GSM130 and GSM175 are ideal for bakeries and pizza shops that knead several large batches of thick dough daily.
KitchenAid
KitchenAid, the industry leader in stand mixers, was born out of a desire to make cooking more efficient and enjoyable.
The company's journey began in 1919 with the introduction of their iconic stand mixer.
Over the years, KitchenAid has continued to innovate and expand its product line, but the stand mixer remains a cornerstone of the brand.
The company is renowned for its high-quality, durable, and versatile commercial kitchen appliances.
KitchenAid's commercial line is designed to withstand the rigors of professional kitchens.
These appliances are known for their power, precision, and exceptional performance.
However, the KitchenAid commercial mixer range does not include heavy-duty spiral mixers.
KitchenAid 8-quart commercial stand mixer is an industry favorite.
Featuring a 1.3 HP motor, patented PowerCore technology, and commercial-grade attachments this compact commercial mixer machine offers excellent efficiency and versatility in performing a wide range of kitchen tasks.
The Artisan series 5-quart tilt-head stand mixer and the ProLine series 7-quart bowl lift stand mixers are popular choices for smaller bakeries and restaurants.
Hobart
Hobart, a leading manufacturer of commercial food equipment, has been a stalwart in the industry since its establishment in 1897 in Troy, Ohio.
Hobart's vision is to lead the commercial kitchen equipment industry through innovation, excellence, and unsurpassed customer service.
Hobart is renowned for its commercial mixers, which are designed to provide the precision and power needed for a variety of food preparation tasks.
Whether it's mixing dough, and batter, or whipping cream, Hobart mixers are trusted by professionals for their quality and consistent results.
The company offers a full line of commercial mixers, including both floor and countertop models, to cater to different needs and kitchen sizes.
Among Hobart's popular mixer models are the Legacy+ Commercial Countertop Mixers, available in 12-quart and 20-quart models, and the Legacy+ Commercial Floor Mixers, which come in sizes ranging from 30-quart to 140-quart.
The N50 5-quart mixer is popular among smaller operations looking for a compact yet powerful option.
From the Hobart commercial spiral mixer range, the 440lb model, ideal for gently kneading dough for artisanal recipes and Neapolitan pizza is another popular choice.
Vollrath
Vollrath Foodservice, a company with a rich legacy dating back to 1874, has been a beacon of innovation and quality in the commercial cooking and serving equipment industry.
The company's enduring success is rooted in its commitment to delivering high-quality, commercial-grade products that offer efficiency and ease of use in the demanding environment of commercial kitchens and food service operations.
Vollrath is renowned for its commercial mixers, which are designed to meet the diverse needs of professional kitchens.
These mixers are celebrated for their durability, versatility, and the precision they bring to food preparation tasks.
Vollrath mixers are engineered to deliver consistent results and withstand the rigors of daily use in commercial settings.
Vollrath 40757 20-quart planetary stand mixer featuring a powerful motor and multiple attachments is popular in the industry for its versatility and top-notch efficiency.
Vollrath 40755 7-quart mixer is ideal for small bakeries and delis while the 40-quart planetary floor mixer 40759 is a good choice for larger services.
Hamilton Beach
Hamilton Beach, a name synonymous with innovation and quality, has served the foodservice and hospitality industries with high-quality, reliable technology for over a century.
The company's journey began in 1910, and since then, it has been committed to delivering products that increase sales, profitability, and customer satisfaction.
Hamilton Beach's products are approved and warrantied for high-volume commercial food service and hospitality usage, reflecting the company's dedication to meeting the rigorous demands of these industries.
They offer a range of products, from blenders and juicers to toasters and cookers, designed to cater to the diverse needs of professional kitchens.
The Hamilton Beach 8-quart stand mixer from the CPM800 Series is one of the most popular commercial stand mixers in the market.
Compact, durable, and versatile, this mixer features a tilt-back head, all-metal gears, and a die-cast aluminum body. It also offers variable seven-speed control with a pulse function.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best commercial mixer?
The choice of the best commercial mixer often depends on the specific needs of the kitchen.
Factors such as the volume of food to be prepared, the type of food, and the available kitchen space can influence the choice.
Hobart mixers and KitchenAid commercial mixers are well-known in the industry for their quality, reliability, and long-term use.
Vollrath and Globe commercial mixers are praised for their versatility and efficient service.
There are also other prominent brands known for manufacturing good quality commercial mixers.
Where can I find a commercial mixer for sale?
Commercial mixers are easily available for purchase across the USA. You can find them in restaurant supply stores or commercial appliance stores.
Online e-commerce platforms and several restaurant supply sites offer a wide range of commercial mixers.
Manufacturer websites like Hobart, KitchenAid, and Vollrath also sell their products directly.
You can check our collection of commercial mixers for the best deals.
Always ensure to compare prices, read reviews, and check the warranty before making a purchase.
How much is a commercial mixer?
The cost of a commercial kitchen mixer can greatly vary based on factors such as brand, capacity, and specific features.
On average, you might expect to pay anywhere from $200 to $1,500 and more for a commercial kitchen mixer.
However, large floor models designed for heavy-duty tasks in larger commercial kitchens can be significantly more expensive.
It's also worth noting that additional costs may arise from optional attachments or accessories. However, you can rent or lease your mixer from SilverChef at a much more affordable cost.
Commercial mixer glossary
Absorption ratio
The absorption ratio (AR) is calculated by dividing the water weight of your mixes by the flour weight.
For example, if a recipe requires 10 liters of wet ingredients mixed with 20 liters of dry ingredients, the AR would be 10/20 = 0.50 x 100 = 50%.
Agitator
The agitator is the fixed or removable metal attachment responsible for mixing, kneading, chopping, and other functions.
Attachments
Attachments refer to the different types of agitators that can be interchanged to perform various tasks.
Drive system
The drive system is the mechanism that turns the agitator within the mixing bowl.
Belt-driven mixers utilize a strap to turn the agitator, while gear-driven models employ a complex system of cogs and gears.
Horsepower
Horsepower refers to the power of the mixer's motor.
Mixer motors typically range from 1/3 horsepower to 5 horsepower.
Mixer hub attachments
Mixer hub attachments include slicers, shredders, and meat grinders that can be attached to the hub of the mixer for versatile use.
Mixing bowl
The mixing bowl is the container that holds the ingredients to be kneaded, mixed, chopped, or whipped. It is where the agitator is placed.
Power take off attachment hub
The power take-off attachment hub is located on the mixer and allows one to use compatible attachments such as slicers, shredders, or meat grinders, expanding the mixer's capabilities.
Timer
A timer feature enables you to pre-set a specific mixing duration and triggers an alarm at the end of the cycle.
High-end models often include a recall setting for added convenience.
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You can upgrade or buy the equipment at any time or, after 12 months, return or continue renting it.
If you decide to buy the equipment, we’ll give you back 60% of the net rent you paid in the first year and 20% of any rental payments thereafter — to put toward the purchase price.