This doesn't have the quality of the old mixers, of course, but it is good. And the price is right, of course. I haven't had any problems with it so far, and the power seems good. The big downside is the instructions to hand wash the attachments. I throw mine in the dishwasher anyway...
I have been coveting this mixer for years and based on other reviews I went with the pro model. It was supposed to be able to handle up to triple batches of dough- it doesn't. It doesn't even handle double batches of bread doughs easily and the last time we made a double batch of a very simple pizza dough the whole thing that holds the dough hook fell out and it hasn't worked right since.
I thought we had broke it the third time we used it making a double batch of biscotti since it just stopped but apparently it shut itself off. We've been using it since to make smaller batches and they worked okay until it fell in- even though we followed step by step instructions to get it back together- now it is useless.
The other thing I don't like is that it is very hard to get the hooks/beaters out when there is something in the bowl- next time I am definitely going for the head tilt model which is cheaper and I believe will do at least as good a job at double batches as the pro does.
Mixer is easy to use, has great attachments included with many more available to purchase. Given reputation and durability, I expect this machine to last a long time.
I don't know how I ever lived without my stand mixer!
I've been making pizza dough, masa, bread, the smoothest mashed potatoes & deserts like a pro. I can't believe I waited so long to buy one. I will be using it to grind meat for burgers & sausages all summer long. Their customer service is top notch as well.
I think the mixer with the moveable head is easier to use.