KitchenAid Vs. Whirlpool: Which Brand Makes Better Appliances?

Whether shopping online or in-store for a new kitchen appliance, you're likely to see offerings by both KitchenAid and Whirlpool. Both offer a vast array of kitchen appliance options, like countertop appliances, refrigerators, and ranges. Whirlpool Corporation owns KitchenAid, and, while that might indicate that both brands are similar in value, they are actually quite different.

Depending on what qualities you're shopping for, one brand certainly ranks best over the other. Generally speaking, Whirlpool kitchen appliances are the more affordable option — they may not have the fancy bells and whistles of KitchenAid appliances, but they are dependable for those shopping on a budget. Whirlpool tends to skip the top overrated appliance trends to avoid and instead focuses on producing top-quality, fundamental appliances.

KitchenAid, on the other hand, specializes in kitchen appliances only, and, because of this, they tend to offer more "new and now" options, which often come at a higher price point. Below, we take a closer look at the two brands to interpret what makes one better than the other — in most cases, it comes down to shopper preference and allotted budget.

First and foremost, it's important to note that while Whirlpool offers a smattering of several types of appliances that can be used in the kitchen, laundry room, and other spaces in the home, KitchenAid only specializes in kitchen appliances. So, if you're shopping for a new washer and dryer combo, Whirlpool will automatically have the upper hand between these two options. What that does mean, however, is that since KitchenAid specializes in kitchen appliances, they base their brand on premium features and design elements to set them apart from competitors.

The next thing to consider is cost, which is important regardless of whether you're shopping on a budget or can spend luxuriously. In most cases, Whirlpool appliances are the more affordable, albeit more cut-and-dry, option over KitchenAid. While you can find tasteful and practical options to suit every kitchen need from Whirlpool, KitchenAid boasts more personalized and sophisticated options for a higher-end experience, which comes at an extra cost.

Finally, it's crucial to weigh the value and reliability of the two brands. While neither brand is considered to be one of the most unreliable appliance brands to avoid at all costs, KitchenAid has a slight advantage in the reliability category thanks to its premier parts. When considering overall value, Whirlpool has the upper hand due to its dependable performance of essential features.

When deciding if KitchenAid or Whirlpool is the better brand, it truly comes down to buyer preference and budget. If looking to outfit all home appliances as one brand, it's best to stick with Whirlpool, since KitchenAid only provides kitchen appliances.

Those with a tighter budget can purchase a Whirlpool appliance and know that it will be dependable with only the most essential features being highlighted. Whirlpool puts the immediate needs of the consumer first, which is a great thing since budget-savvy shoppers know to stay away from the popular appliance splurges that may not be the best use of funds.

However, shoppers with a more open budget might find that KitchenAid appliances have the upgrades they desire, even if it comes at a cost. Boasting tailored design options and elevated style, KitchenAid aims to create the luxury kitchen of every homeowner's dreams. Shoppers will find the same or better quality with KitchenAid as they can with Whirlpool, so it's a solid option if you're someone who spends a lot of time in the kitchen and are willing to splurge to better your experience.