Frigidaire Retro Stand Mixer review 4.5L for effortless baking and mixing

Description

A Retro-Style Add-On for My Kitchen: Testing the Frigidaire CSTM020WHITE Stand Mixer

Design and Build Quality
I’ve got to say, the retro aesthetic of this stand mixer caught my eye immediately. It’s compact, with dimensions of 9.21”D x 14.5”W x 11.29”H, making it perfect for smaller countertops. The stainless steel bowl, holding a generous 4.5 liters, has a brushed finish and feels sturdy. The adjustable 33° arm lift is smooth and doesn’t feel flimsy, which is something I was worried about when I first unpacked it. The white color complements most kitchen styles, and the build, although lightweight at just 6 pounds, doesn’t scream cheap.

However, one quirk I noticed is that the manual knob control feels a bit dated for a mixer in its price range. While functional, it could benefit from a more modern touch. The low-noise motor (advertised at 75dB even at its highest speed) is a feature I appreciated, especially during early morning baking sessions when the rest of the household was asleep.

Performance and Mixing Capability
The real test of any stand mixer is how it handles doughs and batters, and this one didn’t disappoint. With its 300-watt motor, it powered through dense cookie dough and even pizza dough like a champ. The planetary mixing mechanism, where the beaters rotate around the bowl for even mixing, worked wonders for me. No more scraping down the sides constantly, which was a major pain point with my old mixer.

I also loved the 8-speed settings, ranging from a slow stir to a fast whip. There’s a mixing guide printed on top of the mixer, which I found unexpectedly helpful when switching between tasks like whipping cream and kneading bread dough. However, the speeds lack a digital display, so you just have to trust the guide and adjust manually.

The included attachments—whisk, flat beater, and dough hook—felt solid, and the splash guard was a lifesaver during high-speed mixing. I tried whipping cream, making cookie dough, and even attempting a meringue, and the mixer handled it all well.

Key Benefits

• Compact retro design that fits well in small kitchens.
• Planetary mixing technology ensures even mixing without manual interference.
• 8-speed options make it versatile for different recipes.
• Stainless steel bowl and attachments are durable and dishwasher-safe.
• Low noise levels, even at full speed, keep the kitchen peaceful.

Areas for Improvement

• The manual knob control feels dated compared to mixers with digital interfaces.
• Although the 300-watt motor is sufficient for most tasks, it might struggle with extremely heavy mixtures.
• The plastic exterior lacks the premium feel of pricier models.
• At times, the dough hook attachment needed slight adjustment to knead evenly.

Other Options
Now, if you’re looking at this mixer, it’s likely you’ve also glanced at some competitors like the KitchenAid Classic Stand Mixer or the Hamilton Beach 7-Speed Stand Mixer. While the KitchenAid is the gold standard in this category, it’s significantly pricier and heavier, which may not be ideal for someone with limited counter space. The Hamilton Beach option, on the other hand, comes at a similar price point but doesn’t offer the same retro charm or low noise levels.

Compared to these, the Frigidaire Retro Stand Mixer holds its own with its unique aesthetic and compact size. It might not have the muscle of a KitchenAid, but it’s an excellent choice for casual bakers or those who don’t need industrial-level mixing power.

Price to Quality Ratio
Looking at what you get for the price, I’d say this mixer offers solid value. It’s not cheap, but it’s priced competitively given its features. The stainless steel bowl, 8-speed options, and planetary mixing mechanism are standout features in this range. While it might not appeal to professional bakers, the easy-to-use design and reliable performance make it a practical pick for home bakers.

If you’re after a stylish, functional, and space-efficient stand mixer, this retro beauty deserves a spot on your counter. It’s not perfect, but it delivers where it matters most—consistent results and a design that’ll make you smile every time you bake.

Additional information