I bake a lot, and this replaces a mixer that had a bowl with it.  (not a kitchenaid)  This one is far better, for a hand mixer, it's great.  The best part is that you can just hit the switch lightly for a quick mix.  The slow speed is not too fast, and the fast is perfect.  I like the 'wire' beaters, they don't get hung in in cookie dough.  I got the magenta, it's so pretty!