I have the KA Pro 600 with spiral hook and can't complain at all. It is my first mixer so I don't really have anything to compare it to. It does have the 6 quart bowl which is great for large batches, but sometimes doesn't work all that well for 16oz or less dough balls. Mine has a permanent place on the counter as it gets used 3-4 times per week. I don't know how I ever lived without it.