If you're going to make a lot of recipes that take more than five cups of flour, consider a KA with the largest size bowl (believe there are 4qt, 5qt, and 6qt bowls, depending on the model). Maybe some others with more experience will weigh in on that. The beater with the rubber edge on it is great--almost never have to use a spatula to get all the dough mixed. Got my beater from Walmarts website last Christmas, best price, free shipping if you pick up at store. Easy. I've had my KA for 40+years and it's never had to be worked on.