KitchenAid Artisan Plus Stand Mixers: What’s New and Which Model Is Right for You?
The new KitchenAid Artisan Plus range represents one of the biggest updates ever made to the iconic KitchenAid tilt-head stand mixer. While retaining the timeless design and versatility the Artisan range is known for, the latest Artisan Plus models introduce a collection of new features designed to give home bakers greater precision, cleaner mixing, and improved ease of use.
From precision speed control and a new half-speed fold function to integrated LED lighting and upgraded accessories, the Artisan Plus has been developed for bakers who want more control and consistency from every recipe.
Whether you bake occasionally, make bread weekly, or regularly create cakes, pastries, and desserts, the new Artisan Plus range brings meaningful improvements to the stand mixer experience.
What’s New With the KitchenAid Artisan Plus Range?
Watch the KitchenAid Artisan Plus LED bowl light and precision speed control in action below.
Precision Speed Control
One of the most significant upgrades is the new Precision Speed Control system.
Unlike previous Artisan models with fixed speed positions, the Artisan Plus allows smoother and more accurate control across 11 speed settings. This makes it easier to achieve the exact consistency needed for different recipes and ingredients.
Benefits:
- Greater control over mixing speed
- Improved consistency for delicate recipes
- Better texture when whipping, folding, or kneading
- Easier adjustment between mixing stages
The additional 1/2 speed function is particularly useful for gently folding ingredients such as whipped egg whites, fruit, or chocolate chips without overmixing.
Soft Start Function
The new soft-start feature gradually builds up to the selected speed rather than starting abruptly.
Benefits:
- Reduces flour clouds
- Minimises splashing
- Keeps ingredients inside the bowl
- Cleaner everyday baking
This small but highly practical improvement makes everyday mixing noticeably tidier and easier.
Integrated LED Bowl Light
For the first time on a KitchenAid Artisan tilt-head mixer, the Artisan Plus includes an integrated LED bowl light.
The light automatically illuminates the bowl while mixing, helping you monitor ingredients more accurately throughout the mixing process.
Benefits:
- Better visibility while mixing
- Easier ingredient monitoring
- Improved baking accuracy
- Less stopping and scraping
This feature is especially useful when working with detailed recipes, dark ingredients, or lower kitchen lighting.
New Double Flex Edge Beater
The upgraded Double Flex Edge Beater is designed to scrape both sides of the bowl while mixing.
Benefits:
- More even ingredient incorporation
- Less manual scraping
- Faster mixing preparation
- Reduced ingredient waste
It performs especially well with cake batters, cookie dough, frostings, mashed potatoes, and butter-based recipes.
Premium Stainless Steel Accessories
The Artisan Plus range also introduces upgraded stainless steel accessories across the Artisan Plus models.
Benefits:
- Durable premium construction
- Dishwasher-safe convenience
- Improved long-term appearance
- Easier cleaning and maintenance
The stainless steel finish also complements modern kitchen designs while offering excellent long-term durability.
KitchenAid Artisan Plus vs Artisan 125 & Artisan 175
Choosing between the KitchenAid Artisan 125, Artisan 175, and the new Artisan Plus comes down to how often you bake and which features matter most to you.
The Artisan 125 remains an excellent introduction to premium stand mixing, while the Artisan 175 adds additional accessories and convenience. The new Artisan Plus takes the platform further with upgraded controls, enhanced usability, and more refined baking performance.
| Feature | Artisan 125 | Artisan 175 | NEW Artisan Plus |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bowl Capacity | 4.8L stainless steel bowl | 4.8L bowl + additional 3L bowl | 4.8L precision stainless steel bowl |
| Speed Settings | 10 fixed speeds | 10 fixed speeds | 11 precision-controlled speeds |
| Motor Wattage | 300 | 300 | 325 |
| 1/2 Speed Fold Function | No | No | Yes |
| Soft Start Function | No | No | Yes |
| Integrated Bowl Light | No | No | Yes |
| Flex Edge Beater | Optional accessory | Standard coated flex edge beater included | New Double Flex Edge Beater included |
| Accessories | Standard coated accessories | Additional accessories included | Premium stainless steel accessories |
| Additional Bowl Included | No | Yes | No |
| Dishwasher Safe Accessories | Partial | Partial | Yes |
| Best For | Everyday home baking | Regular bakers wanting more accessories | Bakers wanting the latest features and maximum precision |
| Main Advantage | Excellent value | Extra accessories and flexibility | Most advanced Artisan mixer available |
Which KitchenAid Mixer Is Right For You?
Choose the Artisan 125 stand mixer if:
- You want a premium stand mixer at the best value
- You bake occasionally
- You want the classic KitchenAid experience
- You already own baking accessories
The Artisan 125 remains one of the most popular KitchenAid mixers thanks to its balance of performance, style, and affordability.
Choose the Artisan 175 stand mixer if:
- You bake regularly
- You want additional accessories included
- You make multiple recipe components at once
- You want the added flexibility of the extra 3L bowl
The Artisan 175 is ideal for enthusiastic home bakers who want extra convenience straight out of the box.
Choose the NEW Artisan Plus stand mixer if:
- You want the latest KitchenAid technology
- You value greater mixing precision
- You regularly bake delicate recipes
- You want cleaner, easier mixing
- You prefer premium accessories and upgraded usability features
The Artisan Plus is designed for bakers who want the most refined and feature-rich Artisan experience available.
Compatible With KitchenAid Attachments
Like previous Artisan mixers, the new Artisan Plus range remains compatible with the wide range of KitchenAid hub attachments.
This allows your stand mixer to become far more than just a baking appliance.
Compatible attachments include:
This versatility continues to make KitchenAid stand mixers one of the most adaptable kitchen appliances available.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between the KitchenAid Artisan and Artisan Plus?
The new Artisan Plus introduces several upgrades over previous Artisan models, including Precision Speed Control, a 1/2 speed fold function, integrated LED bowl lighting, soft-start technology, and upgraded stainless steel accessories, including the double flex edge beater.
Is the KitchenAid Artisan Plus worth upgrading to?
For regular bakers, the Artisan Plus offers meaningful usability improvements, including better mixing control, reduced mess, improved visibility, and more refined accessory performance.
Does the Artisan Plus still use KitchenAid attachments?
Yes. The Artisan Plus remains compatible with the full range of KitchenAid hub attachments.
Is the KitchenAid Artisan Plus good for bread dough?
Yes. The powerful motor and improved speed control make the Artisan Plus well-suited for kneading bread dough, pizza dough, and heavier baking mixtures.
Final Thoughts
The KitchenAid Artisan range has long been one of the most recognisable and trusted stand mixer collections available. The new Artisan Plus builds on that reputation with genuinely useful upgrades designed to improve everyday baking.
Rather than changing what people already love about KitchenAid mixers, the Artisan Plus refines the experience with:
- Better precision
- Cleaner mixing
- Improved visibility
- More control
- Enhanced convenience
Whether you are upgrading from an older stand mixer or buying your first premium mixer, the KitchenAid Artisan Plus range delivers a modernised baking experience while retaining the timeless KitchenAid design that has made the Artisan collection so popular.