The Eclectrics All-Metal Stand Mixer 63227 is from Hamilton Beach's high-end line and is a state-of-the-art appliance. In addition to its all-metal construction, this unit boasts increased power (400 watts) and superior mixing action.

This mixer comes with a 4.5-quart stainless-steel bowl, plus all the basic mixing tools: a heavy-duty flat mixer, an oversize wire whisk and a large dough hook. You also get a two-piece pouring shield, which makes it easier to add ingredients (especially liquids) and prevents splattering with thin batters.

We tested the 63227, which is styled in a beautiful deep black (licorice) color. The sleek, contoured mixing head and base are attractive and take up just slightly more room than a basic stand mixer. The base is 9 inches wide by 14 inches long and has a molded stand to cradle the tapered mixing bowl. The mixer head houses the motor and has a tilt-up feature that provides easy access to insert or remove attachments. A wonderful feature is the locking mechanism that holds the mixer head up while you scrape the beaters, stir ingredients or allow batter to drip back into the bowl.

We were impressed with how quiet the Eclectrics mixer was during operation. The motor gives off a low humming sound as the beater spins and rotates around the stationary mixing bowl. The mixing bowl twist locks in place on the base and stays firmly in position during mixing. The two-directional mixing action allows the beater to reach all areas of the extra-deep bowl, leaving virtually no ingredients unmixed.

We tested the mixer with a thick cookie dough recipe and were pleased at how easily the beater moved through the ingredients, without any sign of struggling. Every bit of flour was blended into the batter without any stirring or coaxing on our part. The slowest speeds (0-4) provided easy start up mixing, whereas the higher speeds (9-12) delivered lightning fast results.

The Hamilton Beach Eclectrics Stand Mixer has a slide-control lever to access its 12 speed settings. In truth, since the lever clicks in place at every other setting, it acts more like six speeds than 12. Even so, the mixer has ample power for all your mixing tasks, from mashing potatoes to whipping cream or egg whites. This unit uses an electronic speed sensor control to maintain a consistent speed under changing load conditions (such as when flour is added to the batter). We were thoroughly impressed with its performance. For the price, it is an excellent value.


Pros: All-metal construction, two directional mixing for thorough bowl coverage, heavy-duty construction, 400 watts
Cons: Heavy (14.5 pounds)