The KitchenAid Ultra Power KSM96 and the Deluxe KSM97 are two very similar tilt-head stand mixers that primarily differ in price, finish, and target audience. While both share the same 4.5-quart capacity and 325-watt motor, the KSM97 Deluxe model typically costs more and comes with a more premium finish, positioning it for serious bakers who value aesthetics and frequent use.
Here’s a detailed look at both models to help you decide which KitchenAid mixer is the right fit for your kitchen.
KitchenAid Ultra Power KSM96
The Ultra Power KSM96 is the workhorse of KitchenAid's entry-level lineup. It delivers the brand's iconic performance and reliability at a more accessible price point, making it a popular choice for new bakers or those upgrading from a hand mixer for the first time.
- What it is: An entry-level 4.5-quart tilt-head stand mixer built for everyday home baking tasks.
- Key features: Powerful 10-speed, 325-watt motor, 4.5-quart stainless steel mixing bowl, planetary mixing action for thorough ingredient incorporation, universal power hub for attachments.
- Price: Typically ranges from $250 to $300.
- Dimensions: Approximately 14.5" high, 8.7" wide, and 14" deep, making it a good fit for standard countertops.
- Materials/Construction: Features a durable, die-cast metal body that provides stability and reduces vibration during use.
- Pros: Affordable price for a genuine KitchenAid mixer. Powerful enough for most home recipes, from cookies to bread dough. Comes in several classic colors. Durable all-metal construction ensures longevity.
- Cons: Smaller 4.5-quart bowl can be limiting for very large batches. Fewer color and finish options compared to more premium models. Lacks some of the refined aesthetic touches of the Deluxe series.
The Ultra Power KSM96 is ideal for the budget-conscious baker who wants reliable, long-lasting performance for everyday kitchen tasks without paying for premium features or finishes.
Shop this product: kitchenaid.com
KitchenAid Deluxe KSM97
The KitchenAid Deluxe KSM97 occupies the space between the entry-level models and the more expensive Artisan series. It offers the same core performance as the Ultra Power but with small upgrades in aesthetics and finish, appealing to more devoted bakers who use their mixer frequently and see it as a countertop statement piece.
- What it is: A premium 4.5-quart tilt-head stand mixer with an enhanced aesthetic.
- Key features: 10-speed, 325-watt motor, 4.5-quart stainless steel bowl, planetary mixing action, may feature enhanced internal components for smoother operation over time. Available in more refined finishes.
- Price: Generally priced between $350 and $450.
- Dimensions: Similar size to the KSM96, fitting comfortably under most kitchen cabinets.
- Materials/Construction: All-metal die-cast body with a focus on premium paint finishes and subtle design upgrades.
- Pros: More premium look and feel. Potentially smoother operability for frequent users. Excellent durability and performance for all baking needs.
- Cons: Substantially more expensive than the Ultra Power for nearly identical core specs (motor and bowl size). The performance difference is minimal for most casual users.
This mixer is perfect for the serious home cook who sees their mixer as a functional centerpiece and is willing to invest in a more refined design for a machine they plan to use often.
Shop this product: kitchenaid.com
KitchenAid Ultra Power KSM96 vs. KitchenAid Deluxe KSM97 Comparison
Motor & Performance
On paper, the performance of the KSM96 and KSM97 is identical. Both are equipped with a 325-watt motor and offer 10 speeds, making them capable of handling everything from gently folding in egg whites to kneading dense bread dough.
The primary difference is subtle, the Deluxe KSM97 is often built with slightly better internal components engineered for smoother, quieter operation, a benefit that becomes more apparent with frequent, heavy use. For the average home baker making a weekly batch of cookies or bread, this difference is likely negligible. Both machines are incredibly capable and reliable.
Dimensions & Capacity
Both the Ultra Power and Deluxe models are built on the same classic tilt-head frame. They share identical dimensions, making them equally suitable for kitchens with limited counter space. Height is a key consideration, and at around 14.5 inches tall, both mixers should fit comfortably under standard kitchen cabinets.
The 4.5-quart stainless steel bowl included with both mixers is a versatile size for most families. It can handle recipes calling for up to 8 cups of flour, which is enough to make a batch of approximately 7 dozen cookies or 2 loaves of bread. Neither model offers an advantage here, the capacity is the same.
Materials & Design
This is where the key distinction lies. Both mixers feature the dependable die-cast metal construction that has made KitchenAid famous, providing weight and stability on the countertop. However, the Deluxe KSM97 is designed with aesthetics in a more defined capacity, it often comes in a broader range of premium colors with a more lustrous, high-quality finish.
The Ultra Power KSM96 has more of a simple, no-frills appearance. While still stylish and iconic, its color palette is usually more limited to core, foundational colors. If the mixer's look is as important to you as its function, the Deluxe version offers a clear step up in visual appeal.
Price & Value
Value depends entirely on your priorities. The KitchenAid Ultra Power KSM96 represents outstanding value, offering nearly all the functional benefits of its more expensive sibling for around $100-$150 less. If your goal is pure performance-per-dollar, the KSM96 is the undisputed winner.
The Deluxe KSM97 asks you to pay a premium for its upgraded aesthetics and finish. For those who view their stand mixer as a permanent countertop fixture and a piece of kitchen décor, that extra cost can be justified. The value is found in its premium feel and design-forward appearance.
Which One Should You Choose?
Both mixers are excellent choices from a legendary brand, but they are tailored to slightly different home cooks.
Choose the KitchenAid Ultra Power KSM96 if:
- You're on a budget and want the best performance for your money.
- You're a casual baker or new to stand mixers and don't require premium finishes.
- Functionality is your absolute top priority over style.
- You plan to store the mixer in a cabinet when not in use.
Choose the KitchenAid Deluxe KSM97 if:
- Aesthetics are very important to you and the mixer will be a countertop centerpiece.
- You are a frequent baker and appreciate the subtle enhancement of a smoother-operating machine.
- You plan on using the mixer multiple times a week for a variety of tasks.
- You're willing to pay a premium for a wider range of colors and a more refined design.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the main difference between the KSM96 and KSM97?
The main differences are price and aesthetics. The Deluxe KSM97 has a more premium finish and comes in more colors but costs significantly more than the KSM96, even though both share the same motor and bowl size.
Do the KSM96 and KSM97 have the same power?
Yes, both the Ultra Power KSM96 and Deluxe KSM97 are equipped with a 325-watt, 10-speed motor, providing ample power for common baking tasks like kneading dough, whipping cream, and mixing batters.
Can I use the same attachments on both mixers?
Absolutely. Both models feature the classic KitchenAid attachment power hub on the front of the mixer head. This means any of KitchenAid's hub attachments, like the pasta maker, meat grinder, or spiralizer, will work perfectly on either mixer.
What comes in the box with each mixer?
Both mixers typically include the 4.5-quart stainless steel bowl, a coated flat beater, a coated C-shaped dough hook, and a 6-wire whip. The accessories are identical between the two models.
Is the Deluxe KSM97 worth the extra money?
It depends on your priorities. If you are a devoted baker who values design and will keep your mixer on the counter as a centerpiece, the premium finish of the Deluxe KSM97 may be worth the investment. If you prize function over form, the KSM96 offers nearly identical performance at a much lower price.
Which model is better for making bread dough?
Both are equally capable of handling standard home recipes for bread dough thanks to their powerful 325-watt motors and sturdy, all-metal construction. Neither has a distinct advantage over the other for a typical loaf.
How much counter space do these mixers take up?
Both mixers have roughly the same footprint: about 14 inches deep by 8.7 inches wide and 14.5 inches tall. They are designed to fit comfortably under standard 18-inch kitchen cabinets.
Is the 4.5-quart bowl big enough?
For most households, a 4.5-quart bowl is plenty. It can mix dough for about 7 dozen cookies, 2 loaves of bread, or a standard-sized cake. If you frequently double or triple recipes or bake for large crowds, you might consider one of KitchenAid's larger 5-quart or 6-quart bowl-lift models.
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