I'm not particularly attached to any brand, but I agree with the PPs about getting the most powerful motor you can afford. I have a basic KA and it is great, but honestly I wish I had done more research and gotten a more powerful one. It strains with really thick/heavy doughs. Hopefully one of these days I'll upgrade but I'm glad to have this one for now 
I also agree that having a cheap hand mixer has its place! Whipped cream is WAY faster with one.
I also agree that having a cheap hand mixer has its place! Whipped cream is WAY faster with one.
