In the art of making bread at home, the two leading methods are through use of either bread makers or the 6 qt. stand mixer. For this argument, I will use the Kitchenaid 6 quart mixer as it is the pinnacle of the 6qt stand mixer lines.
First consideration in making bread is the loaf sizes and numbers of loaves. Most quality bread machines allow three different sizes of either 1, 1.5, or 2 lb loaves and makes one loaf at a time. The Kitchenaid 6 quart mixer has a clearly marked advantage as it continues to produce loafs as long as you have ingredients, bread pans and oven space.
The second issue in making bread is variety. Most bread machines have a hard time with heavier grains due to sensitivity and complexity of the machines. The powerful motor of the 6 qt stand mixer allows a more rugged texture heartier grains in more volume. Where as the bread makers actually recommend using smaller amounts and thus getting smaller loaves
Another variety issue is the types of bread produced. Some higher end bread makers now have the option to make pizza dough but other than that the options are limited. The Kitchenaid Professional mixer can create any kind of dough and therefor allow more options such as twisty bread designs or even giant pretzels.
The last issue for consideration is that the Kitchenaid Professional mixer is also used to make cake or pastries or even used to cook the main meal. That is something a bread machine is not designed to do. Since a quality stand mixer is an essential part of all kitchens, there is no need to take up kitchen storage with an often bulky bread making machine..
Overall I would have to say the Kitchenaid 6 quart mixer is the more versatile of the two. It is more rugged will last longer and more likely to be used on a weekly basis.
