KitchenAid stand mixers are a popular kitchen appliance known for their power, versatility, and durability. Many home bakers and cooks consider a KitchenAid mixer an essential tool in the kitchen. Costco sells several KitchenAid mixer models at prices that are often lower than other retailers.
Costco KitchenAid Mixer Models
Costco carries the following KitchenAid stand mixer models:
- KitchenAid Classic Series 4.5 Quart Tilt-Head Stand Mixer
- KitchenAid Professional 600 Series 6 Quart Bowl-Lift Stand Mixer
- KitchenAid Artisan Series 5 Quart Tilt-Head Stand Mixer
- KitchenAid Professional 5 Plus Series 5 Quart Bowl-Lift Stand Mixer
The specific models and prices may vary by location and availability. Some Costco warehouses also carry various color options and bundle packages that include additional attachments and accessories.
Differences from Regular KitchenAid Mixers
The KitchenAid stand mixers sold at Costco are the same as the mixers sold at other retailers in terms of power, function, and key features. The differences are:
- Lower price – Costco prices on KitchenAid mixers are generally $70-$100 lower than regular retail prices.
- Limited color options – Costco carries just one or two color options for each model compared to the full range available elsewhere.
- Fewer accessories – Costco’s base packages include just the essential attachments like the bowl, flat beater, dough hook, and wire whip.
- Kirkland brand accessories – Instead of KitchenAid brand add-ons, Costco sells their private label Kirkland attachments and accessories.
Costco KitchenAid Mixer Comparison
Here is a detailed comparison of the key specs and features of the KitchenAid stand mixer models sold at Costco:
| Model | Mixer Type | Motor Power | Bowl Capacity | Colors Available |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Classic Series 4.5 Quart | Tilt-head | 275 watts | 4.5 quarts | Empire Red, Onyx Black, Medallion Silver |
| Professional 600 Series 6 Quart | Bowl-lift | 575 watts | 6 quarts | Dark Pewter |
| Artisan Series 5 Quart | Tilt-head | 325 watts | 5 quarts | Empire Red, Ink Blue, Almond Cream |
| Professional 5 Plus Series 5 Quart | Bowl-lift | 450 watts | 5 quarts | Silver |
Some key observations:
- The Classic and Artisan Series models have less motor power but are more affordable options. The Professional models have much stronger motors but higher prices.
- Bowl capacity ranges from 4.5 quarts to 6 quarts. The 5-6 quart bowls are ideal for larger batches.
- Tilt-head mixers allow easier access to the bowl. Bowl-lift models often have more power.
- Costco carries limited colors, unlike other retailers that offer 10+ color choices.
Costco KitchenAid Mixer Prices
Here are the current prices for the Costco KitchenAid mixer models:
| Model | Costco Price |
|---|---|
| Classic Series 4.5 Quart | $199.99 |
| Professional 600 Series 6 Quart | $349.99 |
| Artisan Series 5 Quart | $279.99 |
| Professional 5 Plus Series 5 Quart | $299.99 |
At these prices, Costco offers savings of:
- $100 off the Classic Series compared to the MSRP of $299.99.
- $70 off the Artisan and Professional models compared to retail prices.
- Nearly 20-25% off compared to prices at other major retailers.
Costco KitchenAid Mixer Warranty
All KitchenAid stand mixers purchased at Costco come with:
- 1-year hassle-free replacement warranty from Costco
- 1-year warranty from KitchenAid covering defects and workmanship
This equals the regular KitchenAid warranty. Costco provides the added benefit of making returns and exchanges easy for the first year with their generous return policy.
Availability of Attachments and Accessories
Costco sells a limited range of attachments and accessories for KitchenAid stand mixers:
- Kirkland brand spiral dough hook, wire whip, and flat beater
- Kirkland stainless steel mixing bowls
- KitchenAid food grinder attachment
- KitchenAid pasta rollers and cutters
However, Costco does not carry the full line of over 10 KitchenAid attachments like the meat grinder, spiralizer, slicer/shredder, and more. These can only be purchased separately at other retailers.
Is Costco the Best Place to Buy a KitchenAid Mixer?
Here are the key pros and cons of buying a KitchenAid stand mixer at Costco:
Pros
- Lower prices compared to other major retailers
- Costco’s generous 1-year return policy
- Option to buy 2-year extended warranty from Costco
- Free technical support from Costco Concierge Services
- Can still purchase directly from KitchenAid later if needing other attachments
Cons
- Limited color options
- Models may sell out quickly
- Fewer included attachments in base package
- No elaborate in-store displays to test mixers
Overall, Costco is an excellent place to buy a KitchenAid mixer to save money. The lower prices outweigh the lack of colors and accessories for most buyers. Costco’s return policy and support services also make it worry-free. The key is to buy early during Costco sales to get the best selection.
Conclusion
In summary, the KitchenAid stand mixers sold at Costco are the same quality, performance, and durability as those sold elsewhere. The main differences are the more affordable pricing, limited color choices, fewer included accessories, and availability of Kirkland brand attachments at Costco.
For home bakers, cooks, and KitchenAid fans looking for a great deal, Costco is undoubtedly one of the best places to buy your mixer. You get the same trusted KitchenAid appliance at considerable savings compared to other retailers. Just be sure to shop early for the best selection.
