KitchenAid 5.5-Qt Bowl-Lift KSM55 review
KitchenAid’s middle bowl-lift for one or two loaves at a time.
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The KitchenAid 5.5-Qt Bowl-Lift is rated to knead over 7 lb of dough, with 11 speeds and a 3-point bowl lock. This page is based on manufacturer-published specifications and manuals plus aggregated owner reviews; we did not test the products ourselves.
Our verdict
For bakers who make one or two loaves at a time and want a sturdier mixer than the Artisan, the 5.5-qt bowl-lift fits. For doubled batches, the 7-qt version is rated higher.
KitchenAid 5.5-Qt Bowl-Lift key specs
| Spec | KitchenAid 5.5-Qt Bowl-Lift KSM55 |
|---|---|
| Motor | Not on KitchenAid’s product page* |
| Bowl | 5.5 qt stainless, bowl-lift, 3-point lock |
| Rated dough capacity | Over 7 lb |
| Speeds | 11, including ½ speed |
| In-bowl power | 2× the Artisan tilt-head (KitchenAid claim) |
Pros and cons
Pros
- Over 7 lb dough rating
- 3-point bowl lock
- ½ speed
- 2× Artisan in-bowl power (claim)
Cons
- Wattage not on KitchenAid’s page
- Bowl-lift height
Who it suits (and who it doesn't)
Good fit
- One- or two-loaf bakers
- Artisan upgraders
- Stiff cookie dough
Look elsewhere if
- Low cabinets
- Doubled bread batches
- Buyers who want published wattage
What to know before you buy
- Height: bowl-lifts are taller than tilt-heads; measure under cabinets.
Frequently asked questions
How much dough can it knead?
Over 7 lb, per KitchenAid.
Is it stronger than the Artisan?
KitchenAid says it delivers 2× the in-bowl power.
Did you test it?
No. This page uses manufacturer specifications and aggregated owner reviews. See how we research.
Sources
Specifications were checked against the manufacturer pages, manuals and spec sheets below in October 2026. Makers revise specs and sell regional variants, so confirm the exact model number before you buy. We do not list prices because they change daily; use the retailer link to see the current price.
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