Tried the 475 watt KitchenAid and it was loud, with a very high pitched sound, especially on low speed. This 425 watt mixer is not so loud and seems to have the same power as the higher wattage mixer.

After using assorted brands of noisy and sluggish stand mixers in the past, this 5 qt. Pro is unbelievable in performance. Because the mixer is definitely a powerhouse, I found that you do have to adjust the motor speeds,contrary to the manual's recommendations. On some preps (such as beating egg whites) you have to carefully monitor the progress -- even with cream of tartar added to help prevent over-beating. The added grinder/puree accessory package we ordered from you additionally enhances its use. Cleanup is a breeze for mixer and attachments and the mixer's appearance adds much class to our newly-remodeled kitchen. After all, why cover it up when it is used so often? Thanks for a great product and purchase price for this website order.

I have only owned and used hand mixers before I bought this for myself as a Mother's Day gift. I had to get used to not having to hold anything in my hand and the speeds memorized to avoid overmixing my cake batters, but WOW!!! This mixer makes life SO much easier for the frequent baker. It's one of the smartest purchases that I've made. An excellent product!

I hated it and I am returning it.
* I tried it with egg whites and it took 3+ times as long to beat the egg whites to stiff peaks, and they really were an unacceptable texture.
*I did not realize that I could not use it with my regular metal bowls, and therefore was confined to only as many special KitchenAid bowls as I was willing to purchase.
*It is huge, taking up a lot of space on the counter, and it is too heavy to store in a cabinet or drawer and keep lifting.
*After observing it in the kitchens of a couple of friends, I conclude that it is largely an ornament for prestigious display, since they don't cook.

I waited until I had used this mixer for several months before rating it.

When the unit is in use, the lift bowl mechanism deflects much more than I like. I foresee these pieces breaking in the future, and for almost four hundred bucks this should not be the case. Therefore, I rate it low because of poor design and engineering by KitchenAid.