Review: VonShef Stand Mixer

I was recently approached by Domu.co.uk to review one of their VonShef stand mixers. It's like they had hard my recent conversations... A friend and I were discussing the astronomical cost of stand mixers after her sister-in-law's bit the dust, prematurely. Just like its competitors, this one is available in a range of different colours (11 to be precise), and follows the same format of multiple attachments, variable speeds and a whole lot of power. So I put it through its paces.

Before we start, here are some mixer facts for you:

• 1200W motor and planetary action. 
• 6 Speed Settings and Pulse Function
• Chrome dough hook - for mixing dough and heavier cake mixes.
• Silicone flat scraper beater - for whisking egg whites, creaming butter and sugar, mixing lighter cake mixes and ensuring ingredients don’t stick to the bowl.
• Chrome balloon whisk - for cream, egg whites and light batters.
• Splash guard which fits around the bowl.
• 5.5l stainless steel mixing bowl (2kg max. mixture preparation and 5 litre liquid capacity). 
• Silicone lid and a dust cover with storage pocket to keep the stand mixer protected when it’s not in use.
• Non-slip rubber feet to stop it moving when in use.

The dial and locking mechanism feel sturdy, and I particularly liked the fact that you can either pick a speed setting by number, or by selecting 'flour', 'egg' or 'P' for pulse. These illuminate when selected, and show which beaters may be used. I loved the little suckers on the base of the mixer, which prevent any unwanted movement, therefore making it safer too. The only obvious difference in build quality is the outer casing is made from heavy plastic rather than metal, but so is the Kenwood Titanium Chef. In terms of beating, it's not too loud, and has enough power to beat you butter and sugar into a fluffy mix in minutes.

A little while back, I did a comparison of the two most popular mixers amongst my baking pals (see the full article here). I've done a quick comparison for you below. As much as I love my pink Kitchenaid (incidentally, the VonShef is available in baby pink too), I have to say that I would think twice about spending £400 on another, when there are such cost effective alternatives. 

Kitchenaid Artisan Mixer

• Power 300W
• Capacity 4.83 litres
• Dimensions 35.3 x 22.1 x 35.8
• Guarantee 5 years
• Price £399.99 RRP

Kenwood Titanium Chef

• Power 1400W
• Capacity 4.6 litres
• Dimensions 29.7 x 22.7 x 40.0
• Guarantee 5 years
• Price £649.99 RRP

VonChef Stand Mixer

• Power 1200W
• Capacity 5.5 litres
• Dimensions 39 x 35 x 19 cm
• Guarantee 2 years
• Price £114.99 RRP

I'd definitely recommend this mixer based on my own experience. It's about time there was a more cost effective, yet stylish alternative.

See the mixer on the Domu website here.

Disclaimer: I was sent a mixer to review. I was not asked to write a positive review - Domu were interested in my honest feedback.