KitchenAid KFP650 11-Cup Professional Food Processor, White

As another plus, it's strikingly beautiful, a sleek embodiment of functionality. For a cook, operating this processor is a thrill--like driving a luxury car. Make no mistake, this is a substantial appliance meant for busy cooks preparing big meals. With a solid metal base providing countertop stability, it weighs 24 pounds and measures 14.8 inches high by 8.7 inches wide by 10-1/2 inches deep. The cord is 4-1/2 feet long, with permanent storage beneath the base for nearly 2 feet of that. But, despite its size, it's easy to care for: the base wipes clean with a sudsy cloth and all parts are dishwasher-safe.

Included with this model is a whip for egg whites and cream, a dough blade, a thin (2 millimeters), reversible disc for slicing and shredding, and medium (4 millimeters) shredding and slicing discs. All are stored in a plastic case (10-1/2 by 7-1/2 by 7 inches) with a white bottom and clear top. A video of tips and recipes is also included. Should the processor fail during its first year, KitchenAid's "total replacement" warranty means another machine will be delivered. Other than in that unlikely eventuality, no cook would part with this machine. --Fred Brack

Editor's Choice: KitchenAid's 11-cup food processor is our choice for the best food processor under $300. It demonstrates why the company's processors enjoy a great reputation. It has a 670-watt motor (with one speed and a pulse function) and an 11-cup plastic bowl. It comes with a whip for egg whites and cream, a dough blade, a thin (2-millimeter) reversible disc for slicing and shredding, and medium (4-millimeter) shredding and slicing discs--all of which are stored in a plastic case.