
The Cuisinart Precision Pro Digital Stand Mixer (SMD-50) is gaining popularity in the baking community thanks to its impressive digital features and powerful performance at an affordable price.
Retails around $370 – 400
Whipping
4/5
Kneading
3.5/5
Beating
4/5
Ease of usE
4.5/5
price/valUE
5/5
The Cuisinart Precision Pro Digital Stand Mixer (SMD-50) provides a modern, high-tech option for bakers seeking precision and dependability. With digital controls, a powerful motor, and a thoughtful design, this model is perfect for the home baker who wants a versatile mixer capable of handling both everyday baking and more complex recipes.
Key Specifications
- Tilt-back design
- 12 speeds for precision mixing
- Powerful 500-watt motor
- LED Digital Display
- LED dial illuminates when operating
- Countdown timer with Auto-off feature
- Preprogrammed recipe features
- Polished stainless steel 5.5 Quart Bowl with helper handle
- Die-cast metal construction
- Includes chef’s whisk, dough hook, flat mixing paddle, splash guard with pour spout
- Unit Weight: 21.0 lbs
- Dimensions: 14.14″L x 8.66″W x 14.13″H
Design & Build: Where Digital Innovation Meets Traditional Power
Digital Control Panel with LED Display
The main feature of the Precision Pro is its digital control panel with a large, easy-to-read display that clearly shows the speed settings. The digital interface is especially useful for those who prefer more precise control. It includes a countdown timer with automatic shut-off and three preset food preparation options. Each option provides seven specific recipe steps, giving you precise control over your mixing process.
Die-cast metal construction
The Cuisinart Precision Pro Digital Stand Mixer has a sturdy build, featuring a die-cast metal frame for durability. The mixer feels solid but is still lightweight enough to move easily when needed. It has a polished stainless steel finish that’s both attractive and practical, resisting stains and fingerprints. Whether you’re placing it on a countertop or storing it after use, it complements various kitchen decors with its sleek, professional look.
Tilt-head design
The tilt-head design operates smoothly with a convenient release lever at the back, making it easy to access the bowl or swap attachments. This feature is especially helpful when adding ingredients during mixing or cleaning the bowl between uses. The mixer employs planetary mixing action, meaning the beater rotates around the bowl while also spinning on its axis. This ensures that all ingredients are thoroughly mixed, resulting in consistent blending.
Powerful 500-Watt Motor
Don’t let the mid-range price fool you – this mixer features a 500-watt motor that surpasses many competitors, including the KitchenAid Artisan’s 325 watts. This means better performance when working with thick bread doughs and large batches.
Generous 5.5-Quart Capacity
The polished stainless steel bowl has a 5.5-quart capacity, which is larger than KitchenAid’s standard 5-quart bowl. It features a helper handle for easy handling and is fully dishwasher safe.
Usability with Digital Convenience
12-Speed Precision Control
The Cuisinart Precision Pro Digital Stand Mixer is built for ease of use. With 12 different speed settings, you can precisely control and automatically adjust speed and timing for tasks like whipping cream or kneading dough. The countdown timer with auto-off stops over-mixing and allows you to multitask. The digital dial also offers smooth speed changes with satisfying tactile feedback.
Whether you’re making bread dough, mixing cake batter, or whipping cream, the Cuisinart SM-D Series can deliver consistent performance.
While the learning curve for switching between the 12 speed settings may be steep for beginners, the interface remains user-friendly, with clear labeling on the speed dial. Most people will feel comfortable using it after just a few tries.
Complete Attachment Set
Included with the mixer is a Chef’s whisk for whipping cream and egg whites, a flat mixing paddle for cookies and cake batters, a dough hook for bread and pizza dough, and a splash guard with a pour spout for mess-free mixing.
These attachments cover most of the common tasks required for baking, from mixing batters to kneading dough and whipping air into egg whites. The attachments are easy to attach and remove, and they lock into place securely during use.
Cleaning & Maintenance
Cleaning the Cuisinart Precision Pro Digital Stand Mixer is quite easy because its dishwasher-safe parts make cleanup simple. The 5.5-quart stainless steel bowl, flat beater, dough hook, and wire whisk are all dishwasher safe. This feature saves time, especially after a lengthy baking session.
The motorized base is simple to wipe down with a damp cloth to remove any residue or spills. It’s crucial to keep moisture away from the motor area, but aside from that, the mixer needs very little upkeep. The tilt-head design also makes it straightforward to remove the attachments and bowl for cleaning, adding to the overall ease of maintenance.
While the attachments lack a storage case, it’s a small inconvenience compared to their overall functionality and ease of use.
Pros & Cons
Value for Money?
Pricing Comparison
At $350-400 MSRP (often on sale for $300-350), the Precision Pro Digital provides excellent value for the performance it delivers. It’s priced more affordably than high-end mixers like the KitchenAid Artisan ($449 MSRP) or Smeg Retro ($599), while still offering great performance for the home baker.
What You Get for Your Money
For significantly less than premium competitors, you receive:
- More powerful motor (500W vs. KitchenAid’s 325W)
- Larger bowl capacity (5.5 qt vs. 5 qt)
- Digital controls with programmable features
- More speed settings (12 vs. 10)
- Same essential attachments as higher-priced models
Long-Term Value
While Cuisinart’s stand mixer history is shorter than KitchenAid’s (launched in 2007), the die-cast metal build and 3-year warranty offer confidence. The digital features add modern convenience without sacrificing durability. It shows that innovation doesn’t always have to come with a high price.
Who Should Buy This Mixer?
Ideal For:
- Home bakers who want professional results without professional prices
- Digital enthusiasts who appreciate modern conveniences like timers and programmable settings
- Occasional to moderate users who bake cookies, cakes, and bread
- Budget-conscious buyers seeking maximum value
- Small kitchens where lighter weight and easier storage matter
Consider Alternatives If:
- You primarily make very thick, artisanal breads requiring maximum power and stability
- Brand prestige and extensive color options are important to you
- You want the largest selection of optional attachments
- You prefer the proven longevity of established brands
The Bottom Line: A Digital Game-Changer
The Cuisinart Precision Pro Digital Stand Mixer effectively bridges the gap between budget and premium models. Its digital features aren’t just gimmicks – they genuinely improve the baking experience with precise control and modern convenience.
While it may lack KitchenAid’s decades-long reputation and extensive attachment ecosystem, it provides superior power and features at a much lower price. The digital controls, strong motor, and large capacity make it an excellent choice for most home bakers.
If you’re looking for a reliable mixer that balances cost and functionality, this model is a strong contender. It receives an overall rating of 4.25 out of 5 stars for modern features, dependable performance, and great value.
Video Reviews
Credit – Cuisinart
