The Cuisinart HM-90BCS and HM-90S are nearly identical, powerful food processors that share the same motor, work bowl, and core functionality. The primary difference is the exterior finish: the HM-90BCS features a modern brushed stainless steel look, while the HM-90S comes in a more understated matte black or silver.
Here's everything you need to know about these popular Cuisinart models to choose the right one for your kitchen.
Cuisinart HM-90BCS Food Processor
The HM-90BCS is a multi-functional food processor that presents a sleek, premium aesthetic. Its brushed stainless steel finish is designed to coordinate perfectly with other modern stainless appliances, making it a stylish addition to contemporary kitchens. Inside its polished exterior is a powerful 550-watt motor capable of handling everything from chopping and shredding to kneading dense doughs.
- What it is: A versatile 2.5-quart food processor designed for multiple kitchen tasks including slicing, shredding, chopping, and kneading.
- Key features: Powerful 550-watt motor, 2.5-quart work bowl, interchangeable discs and blades, large feed tube, and a safety interlock system.
- Price: Around $250 - $300, depending on the retailer.
- Style: Sleek brushed stainless steel that provides a modern, high-end look.
- Materials/Construction: Durable plastic main body with brushed stainless steel accents and a BPA-free work bowl.
- Pros: Stylish, premium finish matches common kitchen appliances. Strong motor performs a wide range of tasks effectively. Quiet operation for its power level. Easy to clean with dishwasher-safe parts.
- Cons: Stainless finish can show fingerprints more easily. Price is slightly higher than some alternative finishes.
The HM-90BCS is ideal for home cooks who value a coordinated, modern kitchen aesthetic and want a powerful appliance that looks as good as it performs.
Shop this product: cuisinart.com/shopping-appliances/food-processors/hm-90bc-s/
Cuisinart HM-90S Food Processor
Offering the exact same performance and internal components as its stainless steel counterpart, the Cuisinart HM-90S provides a more neutral aesthetic. Available in matte black or silver depending on the variant, it is designed to blend seamlessly into a wide range of kitchen decor styles without demanding attention. It's a true workhorse, built to deliver consistent results for all your food prep needs.
- What it is: A versatile 2.5-quart food processor with chopping, slicing, shredding, and dough-kneading capabilities.
- Key features: 550-watt motor, 2.5-quart work bowl, includes slicing/shredding discs, chopping blade, and dough blade.
- Price: Around $240 - $290, often slightly less expensive than the BCS model.
- Style: Understated and classic with its matte black or silver finish that suits most kitchen styles.
- Materials/Construction: High-quality, durable plastic body with a matte or gloss finish and a BPA-free work bowl.
- Pros: Neutral color scheme fits any kitchen decor. Same powerful 550-watt motor and functionality as the more expensive model. Finish is less prone to showing smudges. Comes with all essential accessories.
- Cons: The plastic finish may not feel as premium as the brushed steel version. The availability of specific colors can vary by retailer.
This model is perfect for cooks who prioritize function and performance and want a reliable appliance with a versatile design that won't clash with their kitchen's decor.
Shop this product: cuisinart.com/shopping-appliances/food-processors/hm-90s/
Cuisinart HM-90BCS vs. HM-90S Comparison
Style & Design
The most significant difference between the HM-90BCS and HM-90S is their appearance. The HM-90BCS is defined by its brushed stainless steel housing, giving it a modern and industrial look that is popular in contemporary kitchens. It’s designed to be a showpiece that matches refrigerators, ovens, and other stainless appliances.
In contrast, the HM-90S has a more discreet design with its matte black or silver plastic body. This makes it a chameleon that can blend into the background of almost any kitchen, from traditional to minimalist. Your choice here depends entirely on personal preference and whether you want your food processor to stand out or integrate quietly.
Features & Functionality
Functionally, these two models are identical. Both are powered by the same heavy-duty 550-watt motor, which provides enough strength to knead dough, shred hard cheeses, and finely chop vegetables with ease. They also share the same 2.5-quart work bowl, control dials, and safety features. Both packages typically include a slicing/shredding disc, a chopping blade, a dough blade, and a spatula, ensuring you have the right tool for any task right out of the box.
Materials & Build Quality
Both food processors are built to last and feel sturdy during operation. The HM-90BCS incorporates stainless steel accents over a durable plastic frame, giving it a bit more heft and a premium feel. The HM-90S uses a high-quality textured plastic for its entire exterior. While different, both materials are durable and easy to clean. Critically, both models are backed by Cuisinart's dependable 3-year limited warranty, so you can be confident in the build quality regardless of your choice.
Price & Value
Generally, you will find the HM-90BCS priced slightly higher than the HM-90S - usually by about $10 to $20. This small price premium is for the cosmetic upgrade to the brushed stainless steel finish. Since all performance-related features are identical, the value proposition is extremely close. You are not paying for better performance with the BCS model, only for a specific aesthetic. Both offer great value as powerful, multi-purpose kitchen tools.
Who Each One Works Best For
The Cuisinart HM-90BCS is the clear choice for the design-conscious home cook. If you've invested in a suite of stainless steel appliances and want a food processor that completes the look, its sophisticated finish is well worth the small extra cost.
The Cuisinart HM-90S is better suited for anyone who prioritizes function over form, or for those whose kitchen decor doesn't center around stainless steel. It offers the exact same robust performance at a slightly lower price point, making it a pragmatic and versatile option for any home.
Which One Should You Choose?
Both Cuisinart models are excellent performers, but they cater to different aesthetic preferences.
Choose the HM-90BCS if:
- Your kitchen is filled with other stainless steel appliances.
- You prefer a modern, sleek, and high-end look for your countertop gadgets.
- You don't mind spending a small amount more for a premium finish.
- Appearance is just as important to you as performance.
Choose the HM-90S if:
- You want championship performance without paying extra for aesthetics.
- You prefer a classic, understated look that blends in.
- Your kitchen has a mix of appliance finishes (e.g., black, white, or color).
- You want the best possible value and function is your top priority.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the main difference between the Cuisinart HM-90BCS and HM-90S?
The only real difference is the exterior finish. The HM-90BCS features a brushed stainless steel body, while the HM-90S comes in matte black or silver plastic. Internally - including the motor, bowl size, and accessories - they are the same.
Are the attachments and bowls interchangeable between the two models?
Yes, because both models share the same base unit design and work bowl size (2.5 quarts), all blades, discs, and other accessories are fully interchangeable between them.
How powerful is the motor in the Cuisinart HM-90 series?
Both mixers are equipped with a powerful 550-watt motor, which is strong enough to handle heavy mixing jobs like kneading bread dough or processing tough root vegetables.
Is the Cuisinart HM-90 food processor good for making dough?
Absolutely. Both models come with a dedicated dough blade and have the motor power required to efficiently knead dough for bread, pizza, and pastries.
Are the Cuisinart HM-90 parts dishwasher safe?
Yes, the work bowl, lid, and accessories (blades and discs) are all top-rack dishwasher safe, making cleanup simple and convenient.
What is the work bowl capacity?
Both the HM-90BCS and HM-90S feature a 2.5-quart work bowl, which is a good size for most everyday family meal preparations.
Do these Cuisinart food processors come with a warranty?
Yes, both models are backed by Cuisinart’s limited 3-year warranty, which covers defects in materials and workmanship.
What accessories are typically included with both models?
Both models generally include a chopping/mixing blade, a dedicated dough blade, a reversible slicing/shredding disc, and a spatula for scraping the bowl.
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