The KitchenAid Empire Red and Passion Red are two iconic colors from KitchenAid, but they offer distinct looks. Empire Red is the brand's classic, original shade - a deep, warm red with vintage undertones. Passion Red is a brighter, more vibrant true-red that delivers a bold, modern pop of color.
Here’s a detailed look at both shades to help you decide which is the right statement piece for your kitchen countertop.
KitchenAid Passion Red
Passion Red is a newer addition to KitchenAid's color palette, designed to embody energy, excitement, and modern design. It's a bright, saturated red that immediately draws the eye, making it a perfect choice for those who want their appliances to serve as a functional focal point in their kitchen.
- What it is: A bright, true-red color option available across the KitchenAid line of small appliances, including their famous stand mixers.
- Key features: Highly saturated hue with neutral-to-cool undertones, applied with a durable powder-coated finish to resist chipping and scratching.
- Price: Priced identically to other standard KitchenAid colors, with stand mixer costs ranging from $300 to $500 depending on the model.
- Style: Bold, modern, and energetic. It pairs exceptionally well with contemporary, minimalist, and eclectic kitchen designs with stainless steel or monochrome color schemes.
- Pros: Makes a vibrant and stylish statement, adds a pop of modern energy to any space, photographs beautifully, offers the same legendary KitchenAid performance and durability.
- Cons: A very bold shade that may overpower more traditional or rustic decors, might be overwhelming if you prefer more subdued, earthy tones.
This color is for the person who wants to inject personality and vigor into their kitchen with an appliance that won't go unnoticed.
Shop this product: kitchenaid.com/collections/passion-red-appliances
KitchenAid Empire Red
Empire Red is the timeless, heritage color that most people picture when they think of a KitchenAid stand mixer. It’s a deep, rich red with distinct warm undertones, giving it a classic and slightly nostalgic feel that has remained popular for decades.
- What it is: KitchenAid's iconic, flagship red color, featuring a deeper, warmer tone that has a classic, retro aesthetic.
- Key features: Warm undertones that give it a softer, more inviting look, finished with the same high-quality, durable powder-coat as other models.
- Price: Priced the same as Passion Red and other standard colors, based on the appliance model, not the finish.
- Style: Classic, retro, and timeless. Empire Red is incredibly versatile and feels right at home in traditional, farmhouse, rustic, and mid-century modern kitchens.
- Pros: A timeless and iconic color that never goes out of style, extremely versatile and complements a wide range of kitchen decor, has a warm, inviting feel, maintains the high performance standards of the brand.
- Cons: Lacks the vibrant "pop" of Passion Red, can look more subdued in darker kitchens, may feel too traditional for ultra-modern design schemes.
This color is a fantastic choice for anyone who appreciates a classic aesthetic and wants an appliance that complements a design-forward yet timeless kitchen.
Shop this product: kitchenaid.com/collections/empire-red-appliances
Passion Red vs. Empire Red Comparison
Hue & Aesthetic Appeal
The primary difference is the color's tone and mood. Passion Red is a clear, bright statement red. It's lively and commanding, perfect for adding flair. Think of it as a lipstick red - bold, confident, and pure.
Empire Red, by contrast, is a more complex, warmer color. It has hints of depth that give it a classic, almost cinematic quality. If Passion Red is the modern art gallery accent, Empire Red is the comfortable leather armchair - familiar, rich, and enduring.
Materials & Quality
There is absolutely no difference in quality, construction, or durability between the two colors. Both are applied to the same die-cast metal bodies of KitchenAid's appliances using a durable powder-coating method. This finish is designed to resist chipping, cracking, and fading over time. When choosing between them, you can be confident that performance and longevity are identical, the choice is purely about style.
Price & Availability
Contrary to a common misconception that special colors might cost more, Passion Red and Empire Red are standard options in the KitchenAid lineup and are priced identically. Any price differences you see will be based on the appliance model (e.g., Artisan vs. Professional series mixer) or retailer promotions, not the color itself. Both shades are widely available on KitchenAid's website and through major retailers like Amazon, Williams Sonoma, and Crate & Barrel.
Style & Versatility
Passion Red shines in modern spaces. It looks fantastic against white or gray cabinets, stainless steel appliances, and minimalist backsplashes. It’s for the kitchen that needs an intentional splash of color to bring it to life.
Empire Red offers greater versatility across different styles. It complements warm wood tones in a farmhouse kitchen, enhances the nostalgic look of a retro kitchen, and adds a professional touch to a traditional space. While it doesn't shout for attention like Passion Red, it provides a confident, foundational dash of color that feels integrated and warm.
Which One Should You Choose?
Both colors represent the same legacy of KitchenAid quality, but they suit different personalities and kitchen styles.
Choose Passion Red if:
- You want your appliance to be a bold, modern focal point.
- Your kitchen has a contemporary, eclectic, or minimalist aesthetic.
- You love bright, energetic colors and want to add personality to your space.
- You prefer a true, vibrant red over one with warmer, vintage undertones.
Choose Empire Red if:
- You prefer a timeless, classic look that will never go out of style.
- Your kitchen decor leans traditional, farmhouse, or retro.
- You want a rich, warm dash of color that feels inviting and harmonious.
- You value the brand’s iconic, original appearance that has been loved for generations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between KitchenAid's Empire Red and Passion Red?
The main difference is the hue and undertone. Empire Red is a deep, warm-toned classic red with a vintage feel. Passion Red is a bright, clear red with neutral-to-cool undertones that looks modern and energetic.
Is one color more expensive than the other?
No. Both Passion Red and Empire Red are considered standard colors, and appliances in either shade are priced identically. The price is determined by the machine's model, features, and capacity, not by its color.
Which red is more popular?
Empire Red is the original and iconic classic that is traditionally the most recognizable KitchenAid color. However, Passion Red has become very popular for its bright and modern appeal, especially among those styling contemporary kitchens.
Does the color finish affect the durability of the mixer?
Not at all. KitchenAid uses the same high-quality, durable powder-coating technique for all their standard color finishes. An appliance in Passion Red will be just as resilient to chipping and scratching as one in Empire Red.
How do I choose the right red for my kitchen decor?
Consider your kitchen's overall aesthetic. If you have warm wood cabinets, traditional elements, or retro decor, Empire Red will likely complement your space beautifully. If your kitchen features cool tones, stainless steel, and modern, clean lines, Passion Red's bold pop will make a fantastic statement.
Will my KitchenAid accessories and attachments match both colors?
Yes. Functional attachments like beaters and dough hooks are standard colors (usually silver or white). Decorative bowls - whether glass, ceramic, or patterned - are typically designed to complement a wide range of mixer colors, and they will coordinate well with both red options.
Where can I see both colors in person?
Large retailers that carry KitchenAid appliances, such as Williams Sonoma, Crate & Barrel, Best Buy, or Target, often have stand mixers on display. This is the best way to see the two reds side-by-side and compare how they look under real light.
Is one red easier to keep clean than the other?
No, both have a glossy finish that is equally easy to wipe clean with a damp cloth. Lighter colors may show smudges more obviously, but between these two reds, the cleaning and maintenance process is identical.
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.
