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KitchenAid 13-Cup Review
A thorough review of the KitchenAid 13-Cup food processor, covering design, performance, ease of use, cleaning, and value, with comparisons to alternatives.
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The KitchenAid 13-Cup is a reliable, powerful food processor that excels at everyday chopping, slicing, and dough-making. Its wide feed tube and ExactSlice system (on some models) make prep faster, but the large bowl and heavy weight may not suit small kitchens. For most families, it's a solid investment that delivers consistent results, though it faces stiff competition from Cuisinart and Breville.
How it scores
The good and the annoying
- Powerful 3.5-cup motor handles tough ingredients
- Wide feed tube reduces prep time
- ExactSlice system offers 10 adjustable slicing thicknesses (on select models)
- Easy to assemble and operate with one-touch controls
- Dishwasher-safe parts (except base)
- Comes with a 2-in-1 slicing/shredding disc and dough blade
- Large and heavy footprint takes up counter space
- Bowl and lid are bulky to store
- Some users report leaking if the bowl isn't sealed properly
- Noisy at high speed
- Not ideal for small batches; the bowl is too big for tiny amounts
The KitchenAid 13-Cup food processor is a popular choice for home cooks who want a powerful, versatile machine. Our editorial team compared specifications, buyer feedback, and key decision factors to help you decide if it's right for you. This review covers design, performance, ease of use, cleaning, and how it stacks up against competitors.
Design and Build Quality
The KitchenAid 13-Cup features a sturdy, mostly plastic construction with a metal blade and die-cast base. The work bowl is BPA-free and has a comfortable handle. The lid locks securely with a simple twist, and the feed tube is wide enough to accommodate whole tomatoes, apples, or potatoes. The unit measures about 9.5 by 7.5 by 15.5 inches and weighs around 11 pounds, so it's not compact. It comes in several colors, including white, black, and red, to match your kitchen decor.
The controls are straightforward: Low, High, Pulse, and Off. The pulse function gives you precise control for chopping. The base has non-slip feet, and the cord stores neatly underneath. Overall, the build feels solid, though some users note that the plastic lid can warp if exposed to high heat in the dishwasher.
Performance and Real-World Use
With a 3.5 peak HP motor, the KitchenAid 13-Cup handles most tasks with ease. It chops vegetables, purees soups, and kneads dough without straining. The S-blade is sharp and produces consistent results. The 2-in-1 slicing and shredding disc works well for cheese, carrots, and potatoes. On models with ExactSlice, you can adjust thickness from 1 to 10 by turning a dial on the lid, which is a standout feature.
In our analysis of buyer feedback, most users report that the processor handles heavy loads like nut butter or bread dough effectively. However, some mention that it can be noisy at high speed, and the bowl may leak if the lid isn't sealed properly. The wide feed tube is a major time-saver, as you can process whole ingredients without pre-cutting.
Ease of Use
Assembly is intuitive: place the bowl on the base, insert the blade or disc, add ingredients, and lock the lid. The controls are labeled clearly, and the pulse function is responsive. The feed tube pusher has a small opening for drizzling liquids while the machine runs.
The ExactSlice system, if included, adds a slight learning curve but is easy to master. The unit is top-heavy, so you need to hold the base while locking the lid. Overall, most users find it simple to operate, even for beginners.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Most parts are top-rack dishwasher safe, but hand washing the blades is recommended to maintain sharpness. The bowl, lid, and discs can be washed in the dishwasher, but the lid may warp if placed on the bottom rack. The base should be wiped with a damp cloth only.
One common complaint is that food can get trapped under the disc or in the lid's crevices, requiring extra attention. The bowl is large, so it takes up a lot of dishwasher space. With regular care, the unit lasts for years.
Common Buyer Complaints
While the KitchenAid 13-Cup has many satisfied users, some issues recur in reviews:
- Leaking: A few users report liquid leaking from the bottom if the bowl is overfilled or the lid is not locked properly. Ensure the bowl is seated correctly.
- Lid warping: Exposing the lid to high dishwasher heat can cause warping, affecting the seal. Hand washing the lid is safer.
- Large footprint: The unit takes up significant counter space and is heavy to move around.
- Noise: At high speed, it can be loud, though not excessively so.
- Small batch issues: Small quantities may not process evenly; you need to use enough food to reach the blades.
These issues are not universal, but they are worth considering.
Comparison with Alternatives
The KitchenAid 13-Cup competes with the Cuisinart 14-Cup and Breville Sous Chef. The Cuisinart is slightly larger and has a simpler push-button interface, but it lacks the ExactSlice feature. The Breville is more expensive but offers a smaller footprint and a built-in storage case. The KitchenAid stands out for its wide feed tube and optional ExactSlice, making it a great value for most homes.
Value and Verdict
For the price, the KitchenAid 13-Cup delivers strong performance and versatility. It's ideal for families or avid home cooks who need a reliable workhorse. If you have limited space or only process small amounts, consider a mini chopper or a compact model. But for most, this processor is a worthy investment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can it crush ice?
Yes, the powerful motor can crush ice for frozen drinks, though you may need to use the pulse function for best results.
Does it come with a warranty?
KitchenAid offers a 1-year limited warranty, and you can extend it with a registered purchase.
Is it easy to store?
It's bulky, but the bowl and accessories can be stacked. Some users store the bowl upside down with the blades inside to save space.
What is the difference between the KFP1318 and KFP1322?
The KFP1322 includes a mini bowl and a citrus juicer, while the KFP1318 is the standard 13-cup model. Check the current Amazon listing for details.
Can I use it to make nut butter?
Yes, it can make nut butter, but you may need to scrape down the sides occasionally. The motor handles the job without overheating.
Specs that matter
| Capacity | 13 cups (work bowl) |
| Motor Power | 3.5 peak HP (approx. 525 watts) |
| Dimensions | Approx. 9.5" L x 7.5" W x 15.5" H |
| Weight | Approx. 11 lbs |
| Included Accessories | S-blade, dough blade, 2-in-1 slicing/shredding disc, and (on some models) ExactSlice disc |
| Controls | Low, High, Pulse, and On/Off |
You regularly cook for a family or meal prep, need a versatile processor for chopping, slicing, and dough, and have counter or storage space for a large appliance.
You have limited kitchen space, mostly process small quantities, or prefer a compact, lightweight unit. Also skip if you need a model with a mini bowl for small tasks.
Questions before you buy
Can the KitchenAid 13-Cup process small amounts?
Yes, but it's not ideal. The large bowl means very small quantities may get stuck under the blades. For best results, use at least 1 cup of ingredients. Some models include a mini bowl accessory, but it's not standard.
Is the KitchenAid 13-Cup dishwasher safe?
Most parts, including the work bowl, lid, and blades, are top-rack dishwasher safe. However, the base and motor housing should never be submerged. Hand washing the blades is recommended to preserve sharpness.
How does the ExactSlice system work?
The ExactSlice system (available on select models like the KFP1318) allows you to adjust slicing thickness from 1 to 10 by rotating a dial on the lid. It works with the reversible shredding/slicing disc to produce consistent cuts.
Is it good for making dough?
Yes, the included dough blade and powerful motor can handle up to 4 cups of flour, making pizza dough, pie crusts, and bread dough. It kneads efficiently without overheating.
How does it compare to Cuisinart food processors?
The KitchenAid 13-Cup is comparable to Cuisinart's 14-cup models. KitchenAid offers a slightly wider feed tube and optional ExactSlice, while Cuisinart is known for its simple push-button controls and a larger variety of accessories. Both are reliable, but KitchenAid often has a more modern design and quieter operation.