KitchenAid Food Processor Review 2024 Best 7-Cup Model KFP0718 Features Tested

Description

Highlights of the KitchenAid 7-Cup Food Processor KFP0718WH

Testing the KitchenAid 7-Cup Food Processor KFP0718WH has been quite the journey in the kitchen. Its versatile chopping, slicing, shredding, and pureeing capabilities make it a valuable tool for anyone who enjoys cooking but wants to save time on prep work. The three-speed settings—High, Low, and Pulse—offer flexibility depending on the ingredient’s texture and the desired result. Whether I’m whipping up a quick salsa or shredding cheese for a casserole, this processor handles it with ease. What really stands out is the snap-and-go, easy-clean work bowl with a twist-free, one-click assembly and latched lid, which makes setup and cleanup far less of a chore.

• Simple, intuitive controls with LED indicators
• Versatile blade and disc options for multiple functions
• Compact design with integrated storage for accessories

Drawbacks to Consider

Despite its many perks, the processor isn’t without flaws. The 7-cup capacity is perfect for small to medium batches, but I found it limiting when preparing larger meals or batch cooking. Also, the noise level is on the higher side compared to some quieter models, which took some getting used to when the kids were around. While the plastic components feel sturdy, I’m a bit wary about long-term durability since heavy-duty use might wear them down faster. The cord storage is neat but somewhat fiddly, which can be frustrating when unplugging the device quickly.

• Limited bowl size for bigger meal prep
• Moderate noise output could be disruptive
• Cord storage mechanism could be more user-friendly

Design and Usability

What I appreciate most about this food processor is its compact footprint and clean white finish, which fits nicely on my kitchen counter without taking up too much space. The 7.87″ depth by 9.65″ width and 15.35″ height make it manageable for storage in smaller kitchens as well. The dishwasher-safe bowl, blades, and discs are a blessing for cleanup, especially after dealing with sticky or oily ingredients. The 2-in-1 feed tube is clever, allowing me to process long vegetables like cucumbers and tomatoes without chopping them first, which speeds up prep time considerably.

The multi-purpose blade and reversible slicing/shredding disc cover almost all my food prep needs, from dicing onions to shredding carrots. The easy-press paddles are responsive and make switching speeds effortless even mid-process. However, I noticed that the lid’s latch mechanism requires a bit of force to secure properly, which might be tricky for some users.

Performance and Features Tested

This device truly performs well across a variety of tasks. The stainless steel blades are sharp and efficient, cutting through hard vegetables and cheeses without bogging down. The three-speed control including a pulse function lets me be precise with textures, which is essential for certain recipes where I want chunks rather than purees. I’ve used it to make everything from hummus to pie dough using the included dough blade, which surprisingly worked well for basic dough preparations.

Processing speed is generally quick, but I found that denser ingredients like potatoes or tougher cheeses sometimes benefit from the pulse setting to avoid over-processing. The leak-resistant bowl is a thoughtful touch, especially when working with wet mixtures like salsa or dressings. Adding warm water and a drop of dish soap for a quick rinse proved effective and saved me time.

Quality for Price

Considering the features and performance, the food processor offers solid value for money. It strikes a balance between affordability and quality, especially in comparison to more expensive, bulkier models. This is a budget-friendly option for home cooks who want a reliable appliance without breaking the bank. The durability of the blades and the efficiency of the motor justify the investment, but those expecting professional-grade robustness might want to look elsewhere.

Compared to other processors in the same category, this one provides a good mix of feature-rich functionality and user-friendly design. Its compact size and ease of cleaning add to the overall value, even if it sacrifices some capacity and noise control.

Alternative Offerings

Looking at some popular competitors like the Cuisinart Mini-Prep or the Hamilton Beach 70725, this KitchenAid model holds its ground well. The Cuisinart offers a similar capacity but tends to be noisier and less stable on countertops, while the Hamilton Beach often lacks the same precision in slicing and shredding. The KitchenAid’s snap-and-go assembly system is more intuitive and its storage solution for accessories inside the bowl is a neat space-saver not commonly found in rival products.

However, if larger capacity or quieter operation is a top priority, some models like the Ninja Foodi might edge out this processor despite their higher price tags and bulkier designs. The balance between performance, ease of use, and kitchen-friendly size is where the KitchenAid excels compared to many of its direct competitors.

Safety and Convenience Features

I found the latched lid and snap-on bowl assembly reassuring from a safety perspective; the processor won’t start unless everything is properly locked in place, which is crucial for households with curious little hands. The illuminated LED controls help in dim lighting, preventing accidental speed changes while blending or chopping.

The cord storage feature, though a bit fiddly, keeps the counter less cluttered, which is a convenience I often overlooked until I used it. Plus, the relatively light weight of 6.6 pounds means I can easily move the appliance around or store it away without hassle.

Versatility in Everyday Use

My family has enjoyed the versatility of this food processor in many daily scenarios. From making quick salad dressings with fresh herbs to shredding cheese for pizza night, the device adapts well to varied tasks. My partner even used it to whip up dough for a simple bread recipe, and it held up nicely.

The ability to chop, shred, slice, and puree with just a change of blade or disc means less clutter in my kitchen. Switching between the multi-purpose blade and the reversible slicing/shredding disc is straightforward, and cleaning them afterward is hassle-free since all parts are dishwasher safe. This versatility, combined with the three-speed precision control, makes it a genuine all-rounder for home cooking enthusiasts.

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