Expert Pick #07

Cuisinart SM-50 Precision Master 5.5-Quart.

Cuisinart SM-50 Precision Master 5.5-Quart — 500W motor, 12 speeds, 5.5Q bowl, three attachments in the box. Dollar-for-dollar the most mixer under $250.

Cuisinart SM-50 Precision Master 5.5-Quart

The Verdict.

8.3/ 10

Gavler Meta-Score

The value-pro pick under $250. Slightly larger bowl + higher rated wattage + three attachments included. Trade is Cuisinart's lighter build vs KitchenAid's generational durability.

The Gavler Verdict

Where to Buy.

Prices checked regularly

Best price$229

90-day price history

Price History

Steady at $229 for the entire 90-day tracking window — no increases, no discounts, across 45 tracked days.

Tracked daily across retailers. Vote Want itabove and we’ll alert you the moment the price drops.

Some links are affiliate links — Gavler may earn a commission. This never affects rankings or scores. Learn more.

Precision Engineering

500W Motor + 12 Speeds

Higher rated wattage than the KitchenAid Artisan (325W) on paper; 12 speeds vs the Artisan's 10.

5.5-Quart Stainless Bowl

Slightly larger than the KitchenAid Artisan's 5-quart bowl — takes a larger double batch of cookies.

Three Attachments + Splash Guard Included

Flat beater, dough hook, whisk, and splash guard all in the box — KitchenAid's splash guard is sold separately.

Technical Specifications

Form FactorTilt-head planetary
Bowl Capacity5.5 quarts (stainless)
Motor500W
Speeds12
Attachments IncludedFlat beater, dough hook, whisk, splash guard
Color VariantsSM-50R/B/BC (red, blue, brushed chrome)
Warranty3 years (limited)

The Scoreboard

Expert Consensus82%
Community Rating85%

Cuisinart's value-tier mixer routinely earns 'best under $250' picks in Wirecutter + Reviewed roundups; community scores reflect the strong out-of-box value at the cost of long-term build durability vs KitchenAid.

Cast Your Vote

Do you think Cuisinart SM-50 Precision Master 5.5-Quart deserves the #7 spot in Best Stand Mixers?

Global Critique

If your budget won't stretch to a KitchenAid, this mid-range stand mixer is the next best thing.

Tom's Guide

The color choice is just as impressive as the premium brands, with 13 colorways, plus a patterned design, Caskata, if you feel more daring.

Tom's Guide

However, the one downside is the splash guard. It comes in two parts and was awkward to remove and reattach.

Tom's Guide