The KitchenAid Artisan KSM125 and KSM175 stand mixers are nearly identical in their core function and build, but the key differences lie in their included accessories and bowl capacity. The KSM125 is the classic entry-level Artisan model with a 4.8-quart bowl and essential attachments, while the KSM175 is the premium version that comes with a larger 5-quart bowl and more accessories, such as a pouring shield, right out of the box.
Here's everything you need to know to decide which KitchenAid Artisan mixer is the right choice for your kitchen countertop.
KitchenAid Artisan KSM125 Stand Mixer
The KSM125 is the essential Artisan series model, providing the legendary power and die-cast metal durability KitchenAid is known for. It's built for home bakers who need a reliable, high-performance machine for everyday tasks like mixing cookie dough, kneading bread, or whipping cream without needing a full suite of extra attachments at the start.
- What it is: A tilt-head stand mixer with a powerful motor and essential attachments for home baking.
- Key features: 325-watt motor, 10-speed slide control, tilt-head design for easy bowl access, and power hub for over 10 optional attachments. Comes with a flat beater, dough hook, and wire whip.
- Price: Typically costs between $350 and $400.
- Capacity: Comes with a 4.8-quart polished stainless steel bowl, enough to mix dough for about 8 dozen cookies in a single batch.
- Materials/Construction: Durable and stable die-cast metal body designed for longevity.
- Style: Features the iconic, timeless KitchenAid design available in a wide variety of classic colors like Empire Red and Onyx Black.
- Pros: Excellent performance and power for the price. More budget-friendly than the KSM175. Durable all-metal construction provides stability. Perfect capacity for most average home baking projects.
- Cons: Comes with fewer accessories than the KSM175. Bowl capacity might be slightly limiting for very large batches.
The KSM125 is perfect for casual bakers, small families, or anyone who wants a powerful KitchenAid mixer without paying for extra accessories they may not use.
Shop this product: kitchenaid.com/countertop-appliances/stand-mixers/artisan-series/
KitchenAid Artisan KSM175 Stand Mixer
The KSM175 is the step-up model in the Artisan line, designed for serious baking enthusiasts who want more capacity and versatility. It includes the same reliable motor and build quality as the KSM125 but adds a larger bowl and a more comprehensive set of accessories, offering greater convenience and value for those who bake frequently or in larger quantities.
- What it is: A premium tilt-head stand mixer with a larger capacity and additional included attachments.
- Key features: 325-watt motor, 10-speed slide control, tilt-head design, and a power hub. In addition to the standard flat beater, dough hook, and wire whip, it typically includes a pouring shield and sometimes a flex edge beater.
- Price: Usually priced between $450 and $500.
- Capacity: Includes a larger 5-quart stainless steel bowl with a handle, ideal for slightly bigger batches of bread and cookies.
- Materials/Construction: Durable die-cast metal body ensures it stays firmly on the counter during tough mixing jobs.
- Style: Classic KitchenAid aesthetic, often available in a wider range of premium colors and finishes.
- Pros: Slightly larger capacity is great for bigger recipes. Includes extra high-value accessories like a pouring shield. Bundling accessories offers better value than buying them separately. Bowl has a handle for easier handling.
- Cons: Higher price point upfront. The extra capacity may be unnecessary for bakers who only make small batches.
This mixer is ideal for frequent bakers or larger households that will take immediate advantage of the larger bowl and included pouring shield.
Shop this product: kitchenaid.com/countertop-appliances/stand-mixers/artisan-series-premium/
KitchenAid Artisan KSM125 vs. KSM175 Comparison
Capacity & Sizing
The most noticeable physical difference is the bowl size. The KSM125 comes with a 4.8-quart bowl, while the KSM175 includes a slightly larger 5-quart bowl that also features a convenient handle.
While a 0.2-quart difference may seem small, it can matter when you're making larger recipes or multiple batches at once. For most daily baking, the 4.8-quart bowl is more than sufficient. However, for those who regularly bake bread or make holiday cookies for a crowd, the extra space in the 5-quart bowl reduces overflow and provides more room for ingredients to incorporate. Both mixers have a nearly identical footprint, so the extra capacity doesn't require more counter space.
Included Accessories & Attachments
This is where the real distinction in value appears. The KSM125 package is lean, providing the three core attachments: a flat beater, a wire whip, and a C-shaped dough hook. This is everything you need to get started with basic mixing, whipping, and kneading.
The KSM175 model upgrades this package. It includes those same three attachments plus a one-piece pouring shield to prevent messes when adding ingredients. Depending on the retailer, some KSM175 bundles also include a flex edge beater, which scrapes the sides of the bowl as it mixes. Buying these accessories separately would cost significantly more, making the KSM175 a better value proposition for anyone who knows they'll want these additions.
Performance & Construction
Inside, these machines are virtually identical. Both the KSM125 and KSM175 are built on the same durable, die-cast metal frame, which gives them the stability to handle heavy doughs without walking across the counter. They also share the same reliable 325-watt motor and 10-speed control, delivering consistent power and planetary mixing action that ensures ingredients are thoroughly combined.
Because the core mechanism is the same, you can expect the same exceptional mixing, whipping, and kneading performance from both models. The decision between them doesn't come down to power but to capacity and accessories.
Price & Value
There's a consistent price gap of about $100-$150 between the two models. The KSM125 is a fantastic machine for its price, offering commercial-grade-inspired performance for the home kitchen. It represents the best value for someone who just needs a powerful, reliable mixer.
The KSM175, while more expensive, offers its own strong value proposition. A pouring shield can cost around $25-$35, and a flex edge beater can be $30-$40. When you factor in the larger, handled bowl, the extra cost of the KSM175 becomes much more reasonable. If you plan to heavily use your mixer and would buy these attachments eventually, the KSM175 bundle is the more economical choice long-term.
Which One Should You Choose?
Both models are excellent choices that deliver on the KitchenAid promise of quality, but they are tailored to slightly different users.
Choose the KSM125 if:
- You are a new or casual baker who makes standard-sized batches.
- Budget is a primary concern, and you'd rather save the money upfront.
- You prefer to buy additional accessories if and when you need them.
- Your recipes rarely call for extra-large quantities of dough or batter.
Choose the KSM175 if:
- You are a serious baker who bakes frequently or in large batches.
- You want the convenience of a pouring shield to minimize messes.
- You see the value in getting a set of bundled accessories at a better overall price.
- A handled bowl would make your baking process easier and more efficient.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the main difference between the KitchenAid KSM125 and KSM175?
The main differences are bowl capacity and included accessories. The KSM125 has a 4.8-quart bowl and three basic tools (beater, whisk, dough hook). The KSM175 steps up to a 5-quart bowl with a handle and adds extra accessories, most commonly a pouring shield.
Is the KSM175 motor more powerful than the KSM125?
No, both models typically use the same reliable 325-watt motor. The performance and power are identical, the choice comes down to the included features and capacity.
Can I use KSM175 attachments on a KSM125?
Yes, because both are tilt-head models of the same size, their bowls and standard attachments (beaters, whisks, and dough hooks) are interchangeable.
Is the 0.2-quart difference in bowl size noticeable?
For everyday baking like a single batch of cookies or muffins, you probably won't notice the difference. For larger jobs like double batches or kneading multiple loaves of bread, the extra height and capacity of the 5-quart bowl can prevent ingredients from spilling and allow for better mixing.
Which model is best for a beginner baker?
The KSM125 is a fantastic choice for a beginner. It provides all the power and reliability needed without the extra cost of accessories an occasional baker might not use.
Is the KSM175 worth the extra money?
Yes, if you plan on using the extra accessories. The cost of buying a pouring shield and a larger bowl separately often exceeds the price difference between the two models, making the KSM175 a great value for serious bakers.
Are both models compatible with specialty KitchenAid attachments?
Yes, both mixers feature the universal power hub at the front of the motor head. This allows you to connect over 10 optional attachments, such as pasta rollers, meat grinders, and food processors, turning your mixer into a multifunctional kitchen tool.
What comes in the box with each mixer?
The KSM125 typically includes the mixer, a 4.8-quart bowl, a flat beater, a wire whip, and a dough hook. The KSM175 includes the mixer, a 5-quart handled bowl, a flat beater, a wire whip, a dough hook, and a pouring shield.
At Interior Insider, we're dedicated to curating the best in home decor, interior design, and home essentials to help you discover brands we think you'll love. Every brand we feature is independently selected by our editorial team based on quality, design, and craftsmanship. When you make a purchase through our links, Interior Insider may earn a commission - which helps support our small team and allows us to continue bringing you inspiration and expert advice for creating your perfect space.
Looking for more inspiration? Explore our curated design guides to find your next favorite piece.
