The Sunbeam 2353/2354 features a die-cast metal body and chic retro styling of the Heritage Series. The mixer offers 350 watts of power and an uncommonly low price of less than $100. Like other models in this series, it features 12 variable speeds controlled by a turn dial on the back of the tilting beater arm.
Photo credit: www.sunbeam.com
The mixer includes stainless-steel beaters and dough hooks but, unlike other brands of stand mixers, does not offer outlets for additional attachments. The included 4.6-quart stainless-steel bowl is powered by a secondary motor which allows it to spin while the off-center beaters rotate in opposite directions. This 3-way mixing helps to incorporate all ingredients with minimal hand stirring or scraping.
A very unique feature of the Heritage Series is the ability to accommodate different sizes of bowls. A bowl size selector at the base of the machine allows you to use the included bowl or an additional, smaller bowl. This feature allows you to make a complex recipe without stopping to wash your mixer bowl.
Sunbeam 2353/2354 Heritage Series Single Motor Stand Mixer Features and Specification
- 350 watts of power with 12 speeds
- Dual motors allow the beaters to turn in opposite directions while the bowl also spins
- Tilt-back head function so you can access the bowl easily
- Die-cast metal enclosure
- Stainless steel beater and dough hook attachments are included
- Stainless steel mixing bowl with 4.6-quart capacity
- 3-way mixing action
Product Dimensions: 11.5 x 17.8 x 16.8 inches - Shipping Weight: 14.8 pounds
- Warranty: 2-year limited warranty
Customer reviews
According to the less than favorable reviews, it appears the old adage of “you get what you pay for” applies perfectly to this very affordable mixer. The majority of reviewers ranked this mixer with the lowest possible 1 star, giving it an average user rating of 2 stars. Many reviewers who purchased it were allured by the nice design, heavy-duty metal casing, and the equally attractive price. If you’re someone who expects to only use a stand mixer on a very rare occasion, the 2353/2354 may fit your goals and your budget fine.
But if you want to use a stand-mixer for more consistent use, you may encounter the issues experienced by many reviewers.
In researching user opinions, we found that an overwhelming number of reviewers were frustrated with their purchase. Some of the most common complaints stemmed from issues with the secondary bowl motor, which is responsible for spinning the bowl. Several reviewers had trouble keeping the bowl spinning while others experienced the bowl motor burning out after just a few uses. Some had a difficult time keeping the bowl from wobbling dramatically, which could have been because it was not secured into place properly.
We noticed that many users felt somewhat deceived by the durable appearance of the machine, only to find that the internal workings of the mixer were not as high-quality. Even though the chassis of the stand is die-cast metal, the stand which holds the bowl and the internal transmission are both made of plastic and have a reputation for stripping.
Many users found that after only a few minutes of light use, the motor and the beaters were hot to the touch. In addition, many reviewers reported smelling a hot, burning smell coming from the motor. While others found that their mixer will spontaneously stop and start or not maintain a constant speed.
Finally
Ultimately, we find that the low rating on the Sunbeam 2353/2354 is indicative of the frustrations felt by many owners. While this mixer is very budget-friendly, it may end up costing you more in the end.
If you only bake on rare occasions and have no interest in using the mixer to knead bread, you may have more success with the mixer. However, if you want a durable, all-purpose mixer, you may want to consider investing in a more durable stand mixer such as the Cuisinart SM-70 or Kitchen Aid Artisan. By the way, Sunbeam also offers another great stand mixer which is mentioned in our Sunbeam mixmaster stand mixer review post.