Brentwood Stand Mixer SM-1152 Review 5-Speed Turbo for Effortless Kitchen Mixing

Description

Unboxing and Initial Impressions

I recently got my hands on the Brentwood SM-1152 Stand Mixer, and right out of the box, the sleek white design caught my attention. It’s compact, measuring approximately 11.75″D x 8.5″W x 8.1″H, which means it fits snugly on my counter without dominating the space. The 3-quart stainless steel bowl felt sturdy, and the chrome-plated whisk and dough beaters looked durable. One feature that stood out immediately was the tilt-back functionality, making it incredibly easy to attach or remove the beaters and bowl. The anti-slip feet were a thoughtful addition to ensure stability during use.

What I appreciated about the design was its multi-functionality. This isn’t just a stand mixer; it converts into a hand mixer with a simple push of a button. For someone like me who occasionally prefers the control of a hand mixer, this dual-purpose feature is a game-changer. I also noticed how lightweight it is, weighing just a pound. That’s incredibly convenient when moving it around, though I did wonder if the weight might compromise its stability during more intense tasks.

Performance and Versatility in Action

The 200-watt motor packs quite a punch for its size. I tested it by whipping up a batch of whipped cream and then tackling thicker cookie dough. The five speed settings offered a decent range, from gentle mixing to a more aggressive whip. The Turbo mode was a lifesaver for those moments when I needed extra power to cut through thicker mixtures.

One standout was how seamlessly it transitioned between tasks. Whether I was beating eggs, mixing batter, or working on dough, the mixer handled each job without faltering. The beaters, made from chrome-plated metal, felt solid and didn’t bend under pressure. However, I found that for really heavy doughs, the motor seemed to strain a bit, which is something to keep in mind if you’re planning to use this for more demanding recipes.

Another subtle but useful aspect was the ergonomic handle, especially when using it as a hand mixer. My hands didn’t cramp up, even after extended use. The anti-slip feet ensured the mixer stayed in place on the counter, adding to its ease of use.

Key Benefits

• Compact and Lightweight Design: Perfect for small kitchens or limited counter space.
• Dual-Purpose Functionality: Easily transitions from a stand mixer to a hand mixer.
• Five Speed Settings + Turbo: Offers flexibility for both light and heavy-duty tasks.
• Stainless Steel Bowl and Chrome-Plated Beaters: Durable and easy to clean.
• Tilt-Back Feature: Makes attaching and removing accessories hassle-free.

Caveats

• Limited Power for Heavy Doughs: The 200-watt motor struggles a bit with denser mixtures.
• Dishwasher Safety: While the beaters are dishwasher safe, the mixer itself isn’t, which means some manual cleaning is required.
• Plastic Controls: They feel slightly flimsy and might not withstand long-term use.

Competing Products

When comparing this with other stand mixers, like the KitchenAid Classic Series or the Hamilton Beach 6-Speed Mixer, a few differences stand out. The KitchenAid offers significantly more power and a larger bowl capacity, making it better for heavy-duty baking. On the other hand, the Hamilton Beach model has a similar price point but includes a splash guard, which the Brentwood lacks. However, neither of these competitors boasts the dual functionality of serving as both a stand and hand mixer, which gives the Brentwood a unique edge.

Where the Brentwood really shines is in its portability and compact size, making it ideal for occasional bakers or those in smaller households. If you’re someone who doesn’t need industrial-strength mixing power, this product offers a lot of versatility without taking up too much space or breaking the bank.

True Value

Considering its features and performance, the Brentwood SM-1152 Stand Mixer offers decent value for money. While it may not have the raw power or premium materials of higher-end brands, its affordable quality and multi-functional design make it a practical choice for casual cooks and bakers. It’s especially great for those who want a versatile appliance without making a huge investment. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly mixer that handles everyday tasks with ease, this one ticks most of the boxes.

Additional information