Hand Mixers

1. Hand mixers are the next best thing to becoming a bionic baker. They're best used for lighter tasks such as whipping and puréeing, incorporating cake batter or mashing potatoes. If you bake bread or cookies on occasion, dough hook attachments can be used to crank heavier dough.

2. A hand model is ideal if you're an infrequent baker, have little counter space, or prefer an easy-clean mixer that doesn't require transferring ingredients

3. The number of speeds isn't just a matter of fast. Sometimes slow is important too. The start speed should be slow enough to prevent spattering (a slow start function is a useful feature to look for). The more speeds available, the smoother its transitions--and the cleaner your counter--should be.

4. What mouthfeel is to wine, handfeel is to mixers. A comfortable and balanced grip helps prevent arm strain and achieve better mixing results. Anti-slip rubberized grips and soft grips are useful features. A heel rest will allow you to perch the appliance on a bowl edge.

5. KitchenAid's offerings consistently receive top marks from shoppers, home users, and cooking experts. KitchenAid's nine-speed line is notable for multiple slow-start speeds and smooth, easy-clean keypads.

6. Cuisinart is known for powerful performance--a good option if you want stand-like power without the heavy trappings of a base. Left-handed bakers will find Cuisinart's swivel cord feature helpful.

7. Dualit is a well-known brand to keepers of decor-conscious kitchens, with a retro Euro style that's almost as delicious as cookie dough. Their smart designs are apparent in function too. Expect retractable cords for easy and space-efficient kitchen storage.

8. Great all-around performance at an affordable price is a Hamilton Beach hallmark. Their designs show attention to user experience as well, with arm-friendly heel rests and silicone-coated whisks that won't scratch your favorite non-stick bowls.

9. After all the manual labor is done, there's still one quality that counts: cleanup. Models with dishwasher-safe attachments will cut down on cleanup time. If you're doing the washing up in the sink, wire beaters are preferable to center-post or flat-edged beaters.