Is the Magimix 5200XL Food Processor worth it? The answer is simple: it’s a kitchen favorite among professional chefs. If you peek into the kitchens of culinary stars like Mary Berry, Jamie Oliver, and Nigella Lawson, you’ll likely spot this food processor. But should you get one for your own kitchen?
The Magimix 5200XL has topped food processor lists for years, and its popularity begs the question: what makes it so special? This processor has a classic design that’s stood the test of time. So, why does it command such a high price tag?
Curious to find out, I brought the Magimix 5200XL into my kitchen. I channeled my inner Mary Berry and tried out its claim to fame—its unique features. With three stackable bowls and numerous accessories, this machine offers more than many kitchens could ever want. But, is it really worth the hefty price tag of £370?
Specifications
Let’s take a quick look at the specs:
- Dimensions: 44.5 x 21 x 24 cm
- Weight: 11 kg
- Power: 1,100 kW
- Capacity: 1.2 – 3.6L
- Accessories: 3 BPA-free bowls (1.2L, 2.6L, 3.6L), 2 stainless steel blades, 2 grating discs (2mm and 4mm), 2 slicing discs (2mm and 4mm), a BlenderMix ring, dough kneading blade, egg whisk, citrus press, spatula, storage box for blades and discs, recipe book
- Warranty: 30 years
The Magimix 5200XL is incredibly versatile. It can grate cheese, make dough, jams, sauces, and soups. It suits creative chefs, yet is also perfect for everyday cooking. For instance, the small bowl (1.2L) is great for making dip, while the larger bowl (1.8L) can handle a whole loaf of frozen bread in seconds. The name “XL” truly reflects its capabilities.
This food processor is pricey, but consider this: most processors last about five years, with cheaper ones sometimes lasting even less. Magimix backs their motor with a 30-year warranty, making it a solid investment if you’ll use it regularly. For those not ready for a splurge, I’ll also discuss alternative options later.
Unboxing Experience
Unboxing the Magimix was an event. It arrived in a large, sturdy box packed with accessories. You’ll find the main bowl, a second and third bowl, a recipe booklet, various blades, and a storage case for the extra parts. It’s a bit heavy, hinting at the quality of the base.
However, the packaging is less impressive. It includes a lot of non-recyclable materials, which can be disappointing in today’s eco-conscious world. I hope Magimix updates their packaging to a more environmentally friendly option soon.
User Experience
Using the Magimix is a delight. It features three simple buttons and is easy to set up. Despite its simplicity, it can handle various tasks with impressive efficiency. The eight blades provide different grating and slicing options, making it a true workhorse in the kitchen.
During my tests, I started with chopping onions. The Magimix diced them perfectly in seconds. I even challenged it with two onions at once—no problem! It also turned a whole loaf of stale bread into breadcrumbs in just 27 seconds. That’s quite a time-saver for busy cooks.
For dips and smoother tasks, I used the smallest bowl. The hummus turned out velvety smooth, while the smoothie bowls had no bits or seeds. The smaller sizes really kept everything compact and blended well.
Grating and Slicing Tests
Next, I tried grating. I used a tough carrot and soft cheddar cheese. The results were impressive; the Magimix handled both beautifully, producing perfect, consistent grates. I’ve seen many processors struggle with this, but not the Magimix. All the food went into the bowl without getting stuck on the blades.
Slicing was just as impressive. Slicing a cucumber took less than 11 seconds! The uniformity of the slices was satisfying, and it made the task feel almost effortless.
Bread-Making Test
The bread blade is a fantastic feature. I filled the biggest bowl with flour and added warm water and olive oil. In just seven minutes, I had a smooth, elastic dough ready to rise. It performed admirably, even with the high hydration doughs.
Other Functions
I couldn’t resist making a raspberry cake to test the all-in-one mixing capability of the Magimix. It mixed everything quietly and efficiently, resulting in a light and fluffy batter—just as good as a stand mixer would make.
There’s a range of attachments, and each one performs well. The included recipe book is a bonus, as it gives creative ideas for using the processor, from crab cakes to cocktails.
Cleaning
Cleaning is seamless. You can pop all the parts (except blades) into the dishwasher. I recommend hand-washing the blades to prevent food residue from sticking. A brush can help clean the lid’s nooks effectively.
Comparison with Other Models
Compared to other food processors, the Magimix 5200XL stands out for its design and versatility. While some models focus more on specific tasks, this one can do it all. If you’re looking for a dedicated baking machine, the ProCook Food Processor is a good alternative. It doesn’t have the same range of bowls, but it excels at whipping and mixing.
For someone seeking extreme versatility, consider the Kenwood MultiPro One Touch. It combines a food processor with a blender and scales. It’s even cheaper than the Magimix, yet offers various features. However, it may lack some of the unique attachments that come with the Magimix.
Should You Buy It?
If you need a reliable, versatile food processor that carries a 30-year warranty, the Magimix 5200XL is a great choice. Although it might seem pricier than others, you pay for quality and durability. This is why so many chefs choose it.
At woman&home, I approach testing with care. Each food processor goes through multiple tasks to give you an accurate idea of its performance and capabilities. You’ll know what you’re getting when you invest in this kitchen essential.
