I don't have the space for a stand mixer and I have gone through hand mixers like crazy because most of them just can't handle big batches of cookie dough. I have five kids and I bake a lot. It has been a big frustration because the last hand mixer I bought lasted through one batch of chocolate chip cookie dough and died on the next try. The one prior to that one lasted no more than five batches.....and the list goes on. these things are just not made to be able to handle it like the hand mixers of yesterday - except this one!!! this one is definitely more powerful and durable. This will last me a long time, I can feel the difference in it. If your'e like me and bake often but don't have the space for a big stand mixer than this is the mixer for you!! I do wish that the beaters were a little bit more heavy duty, but they do seem to do the job just fine and they can always be replaced.