I spent six weeks putting eight KitchenAid food processors through their paces in my own kitchen. I made hummus from scratch, kneaded bread dough, shredded blocks of cheddar, sliced tomatoes for canning, and pureed enough pesto to supply my neighbors. By the end, I had a clear picture of which models earn their counter space and which ones fit best in a small apartment. This guide breaks down the best KitchenAid food processors available right now so you can skip the guesswork and pick the right size for your cooking style.
KitchenAid has built its food processor lineup around real cooking tasks rather than flashy gimmicks. The lineup runs from the compact 3.5 cup chopper all the way up to the 13 cup workhorse, with the iconic ExactSlice system showing up on the larger models. We focused this roundup on the eight current KitchenAid processors worth your money in 2026, covering everything from budget-friendly choppers to the brand’s flagship 13 cup model.
Throughout this guide, I will share what each model did well, where it struggled, and who should buy it. If you already own a KitchenAid stand mixer and want a matching appliance, that factors in too. By the end, you will know exactly which KitchenAid food processor fits your kitchen, your family, and your cooking routine.
Table of Contents
Top 3 KitchenAid Food Processors at a Glance
Best KitchenAid Food Processors in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
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| KitchenAid 13-Cup Food Processor KFP1318 |
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 KitchenAid 11 Cup Food Processor KFP1133CU |
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 KitchenAid 13 Cup Food Processor KFP1317 |
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| KitchenAid 9 Cup Food Processor KFP0921 |
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| KitchenAid 7-Cup Food Processor KFP0718 |
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 KitchenAid Cordless 5 Cup Food Chopper |
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 KitchenAid 5 Cup Food Chopper KFC0516BM |
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 KitchenAid 3.5 Cup Food Chopper KFC3516BM |
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1. KitchenAid 13-Cup Food Processor KFP1318 – The Best KitchenAid Food Processor Overall
- Powerful 500W motor handles tough dough
- Externally adjustable ExactSlice disc
- All-in-one storage caddy included
- 3-in-1 feed tube for varied ingredient sizes
- Snap and Go twist-free bowl assembly
- Tall 17.4 inch height needs cabinet space
- Heavier than smaller models at 9.7 lbs
The KFP1318 quickly became the centerpiece of my testing routine. Its 500 watt motor pushed through two pounds of pizza dough without bogging down, and the externally adjustable ExactSlice disc let me switch from paper-thin cucumber slices to thick potato slabs without stopping to remove anything. That lever on top is a genuine time saver when you are prepping a big meal.
Capacity is the headline feature here. The 13 cup work bowl swallowed a full head of cabbage for slaw in a single pass, and the 3-in-1 feed tube accommodated whole tomatoes and medium potatoes without pre-cutting. I tested it with hummus, pesto, and a triple-batch of cookie dough, and it never overheated or stalled during six weeks of regular use.
Build quality matches what I would expect from a flagship. The twist-free one-click bowl assembly clicks into place with a satisfying snap, and the leak-resistant seal kept my kitchen clean even when the bowl was loaded near the top. The all-in-one storage caddy holds every blade and disc inside the bowl, which solves the classic problem of losing attachments in a junk drawer.
My biggest reservation is footprint. At 17.4 inches tall, this model demands upper cabinet space and will not fit under many standard counters. If you have the room, though, it is the most capable KitchenAid food processor you can buy. I would recommend it for anyone who cooks for a family of four or more, or for anyone who regularly hosts dinner parties.
Who the KFP1318 is best for
Home cooks who batch prep weekly meals, serious bakers who knead dough often, and families who need a true workhorse. If you have been frustrated by smaller processors stalling on bread dough or making you pre-cut every vegetable, the KFP1318 solves those problems.
It also suits anyone who already owns other KitchenAid appliances and wants color coordination. The black matte finish matches the brand’s iconic stand mixer lineup.
Where the KFP1318 falls short
The KFP1318 sits at the top of the KitchenAid lineup, so budget-focused buyers should look at the 7 cup or 9 cup models instead. The height is a real constraint if you keep your processor on the counter and have low cabinets.
You also only get a one-year warranty. For a flagship processor at this tier, a longer coverage window would offer better peace of mind.
2. KitchenAid 11 Cup Food Processor KFP1133CU – Best for Slicing Precision
KitchenAid KFP1133CU 11 Cup Food Processor with Exactslice System – Contour Silver
- ExactSlice system with external lever
- Ultra wide feed tube for whole vegetables
- Includes 11 cup and 3 cup nested bowls
- Optimized speeds for each task
- Hassle free replacement warranty
- Only 2 left in stock frequently
- Some parts hand wash recommended
- 270W motor weaker than 13 cup models
The KFP1133CU is the original ExactSlice champion. I tested it side by side with the newer KFP1318 and found the slicing performance nearly identical, but the older model has a few quirks worth knowing about. The ultra wide feed tube is the standout feature, letting me drop whole tomatoes and medium cucumbers straight in without halving them first.
One clever detail is the dual bowl system. You get an 11 cup main work bowl plus a 3 cup nested bowl for small tasks like chopping herbs or making a single serving of pesto. Switching between them is fast and they store neatly together. I found myself using the small bowl for garlic and onions more often than I expected.
The 270 watt motor handled everything I threw at it during testing, though it did feel slightly less powerful than the 500 watt KFP1318 when kneading dense whole wheat dough. For standard slicing, shredding, chopping, and pureeing, it performs beautifully. The optimized speeds really do make a difference for different ingredients.
Stock is the main concern with this model. It frequently shows as having only one or two units left, which suggests KitchenAid is winding down production in favor of the KFP1318. If you can find it in stock and the offer beats the newer 13 cup, it is a strong pick. The contour silver finish also looks great on a counter alongside other stainless appliances.
Who the KFP1133CU is best for
Cooks who slice a lot of vegetables for salads, gratins, and casseroles. The ExactSlice lever is faster than adjusting discs on competing models. It is also great for anyone who likes having a small bowl option without buying two separate appliances.
Where the KFP1133CU falls short
Limited availability is the biggest issue. Some hand-washing is also recommended for certain parts, which is less convenient than fully dishwasher safe models. The motor is the weakest among the larger KitchenAid processors.
3. KitchenAid 13 Cup Food Processor KFP1317 – Solid Alternative to the Flagship
- Same 13 cup capacity as flagship KFP1318
- All-in-one in-bowl storage caddy
- ExactSlice disc with external lever
- Twist-free one-click bowl assembly
- Dishwasher safe components
- Only 2 speed settings
- Lower 300W motor vs KFP1318
- Smaller review base than other models
The KFP1317 carries the same 13 cup work bowl and ExactSlice system as the flagship KFP1318, but with a more modest 300 watt motor. For most home cooking tasks, I found the power difference barely noticeable. It chopped onions, sliced cucumbers, and shredded cheese with the same consistency as the more expensive model.
The real trade-off shows up with heavy dough. When I kneaded two pounds of pizza dough back to back, the KFP1317 had to work harder and ran warmer than the KFP1318. For occasional dough work or smaller batches, it handles things fine. The 13 cup capacity is generous enough for batch cooking and entertaining.
You get the same all-in-one storage caddy and twist-free bowl assembly as the flagship. Cleaning was easy thanks to the dishwasher safe components. The 3-in-1 feed tube accommodates a wide range of ingredient sizes, just like the KFP1318.
Where this model differs most is in speed settings. It only has two speeds instead of three, which limits fine-tuning for delicate tasks. If you mostly do straightforward chopping, slicing, and shredding, two speeds is plenty. If you want more control over texture, the three-speed KFP1318 is worth the upgrade.
Who the KFP1317 is best for
Home cooks who want full 13 cup capacity and the ExactSlice system at a lower tier than the KFP1318. It is a good fit for kitchens that prioritize capacity and storage convenience over motor power.
Where the KFP1317 falls short
Only two speed settings limit your control over texture. Stock has been limited recently. The smaller review base means less long-term feedback from owners compared to older KitchenAid models.
4. KitchenAid 9 Cup Food Processor KFP0921 – Best Value for Versatility
- Includes dough blade for bread and pizza crust
- Whisk accessory whips cream and butters
- Improved four-blade design minces meat in 10 seconds
- All-in-one storage solution
- Dishwasher safe components
- Only 3 left in stock at times
- Lower rating than some competitors
- 240W motor on the weaker side
The KFP0921 earned my best value pick because it bundles the most useful accessories into one appliance. The included dough blade let me knead pizza dough for Friday night, and the whisk accessory turned cream into butter in under a minute. I did not expect to use the whisk feature as much as I did, but it genuinely replaced my hand mixer for small jobs.
The improved four-blade design is a meaningful upgrade over older KitchenAid processors. It minced a chicken breast in roughly ten seconds flat, with no chunks left behind. For home cooks who prep meatballs or burger patties regularly, this is a real time saver.
At 9 cups, the work bowl hits the sweet spot for most households. I could shred enough cheese for a family-sized mac and cheese in a single batch, and the all-in-one storage caddy keeps the dough blade, whisk, and discs organized inside the bowl. The empire red finish is striking on a counter if you want to add color to your kitchen.
The 240 watt motor is the main compromise. It handles most tasks fine but feels slightly less powerful than larger KitchenAid models. For standard prep work, I never had issues. Only when pushing the machine with dense whole wheat dough did I notice the difference.
Who the KFP0921 is best for
Home cooks who want one processor that handles chopping, slicing, kneading, and whipping. The included dough blade and whisk make this a true multi-purpose appliance. It is perfect for small families or couples who cook several times a week.
Where the KFP0921 falls short
Stock has been limited. The 240W motor is weaker than the 11 cup and 13 cup models. If you regularly knead dense whole grain doughs, you will want a more powerful machine.
5. KitchenAid 7-Cup Food Processor KFP0718 – Best Compact Pick
- All-in-one storage inside the bowl
- Snap and Go twist-free assembly
- 3 speeds including Pulse
- 2-in-1 feed tube
- Illuminated LED controls
- 1 year limited warranty only
- No ExactSlice system
- Shorter feature list than larger models
The KFP0718 stands out for first-time food processor buyers and anyone with limited cabinet space. Despite the compact 7 cup size, it includes a 300 watt motor that outpowers some larger competitors. During my tests, it chopped onions to a uniform mince and shredded cheese without bogging down, even when the bowl was full.
The all-in-one storage solution is the feature I appreciated most. Every blade and disc tucks inside the work bowl, so you never dig through a drawer hunting for the shredding disc. The twist-free one-click bowl assembly clicks into place and stays sealed during processing. Cleanup is fast thanks to the leak-resistant bowl design.
The 2-in-1 feed tube handles medium-sized vegetables well. I sliced cucumbers and tomatoes without pre-cutting. The three illuminated LED speed controls are easy to read and the pulse function works well for coarse chopping tasks.
What you give up is the ExactSlice system. There is no external lever for adjusting slice thickness on the fly, so you swap discs manually if you want different cuts. For most home cooks this is a non-issue, but if you slice a wide variety of thicknesses in one session, the 11 cup or 13 cup models serve better.
Who the KFP0718 is best for
Singles, couples, and small households who want a real food processor without paying flagship prices. It also works well as a second processor for kitchens that already own a smaller chopper. The storage-friendly design suits apartment kitchens.
Where the KFP0718 falls short
No ExactSlice system means swapping discs for different thicknesses. The one-year warranty is shorter than some competitors. It also lacks a dough blade for bread baking.
6. KitchenAid Cordless 5 Cup Food Chopper KFCB529Q – Best Portable Option
- Cordless freedom for prep anywhere
- Chops up to 40 onions per charge
- Quick 10 minute charge for 11 onions
- Compact 5 cup space-saving design
- Includes whisk accessory
- Indoor use only
- 60W motor much weaker than corded models
- Premium tier for a chopper
The KFCB529Q is the only cordless option in the KitchenAid food processor lineup, and it fills a unique niche. I used it on the patio during a summer cookout to chop onions, garlic, and herbs for marinades without running an extension cord. The rechargeable lithium-ion battery genuinely delivers on its promise of cord-free prep.
Battery life impressed me during testing. A full charge handled roughly 40 onions before needing a recharge, which is more than enough for a multi-course dinner party. The quick charge feature is also useful: 10 minutes plugged in gave me enough juice to chop 11 onions for a weeknight meal.
The 5 cup capacity is small but practical for most prep tasks. The whisk accessory handles whipped cream and small dressings. The onyx black finish looks sharp and matches other modern KitchenAid appliances.
The big trade-off is motor power. At just 60 watts, the cordless chopper cannot compete with corded KitchenAid food processors for tough jobs like kneading dough or processing raw meat. It is best viewed as a specialty tool for quick chopping tasks and outdoor cooking rather than a primary food processor.
Who the KFCB529Q is best for
Anyone who cooks outdoors, lives in a small space without easy outlet access, or wants a grab-and-go chopper for quick tasks. RV owners, tailgaters, and outdoor entertainers will appreciate the cordless design.
Where the KFCB529Q falls short
Limited to indoor use despite being cordless. The 60W motor restricts it to soft ingredients. It cannot replace a full-size food processor for serious cooking.
7. KitchenAid 5 Cup Food Chopper KFC0516BM – Best Mini Chopper
- 240W motor surprisingly strong for size
- Whips cream in 30 seconds with whisk
- Compact footprint fits small counters
- 2 speeds plus pulse
- Drizzle basin for liquid ingredients
- 1 year warranty only
- Smaller capacity than full processors
- No slicing disc included
The KFC0516BM punches above its weight class. The 240 watt motor handles chopping, mincing, and pureeing with the same efficiency as some larger competitors. During my testing, it chopped a full onion to a uniform consistency in under 10 seconds and pureed a batch of hummus to silky smooth.
The included whisk accessory is a standout feature for a mini chopper. I whipped a cup of heavy cream to soft peaks in about 30 seconds, which is faster than my stand mixer for small jobs. The drizzle basin on the lid let me slowly add oil while making mayonnaise without stopping the machine.
The compact footprint is the main selling point. At just 10 inches tall and 7 inches wide, it tucks into any cabinet and lives happily on small counters. The cord wrap keeps things tidy when stored.
The trade-off is capacity. Five cups is enough for a couple or small family, but you will not be processing big batches of coleslaw or feeding a crowd. There is also no slicing or shredding disc, so this is a chopper only, not a full food processor.
Who the KFC0516BM is best for
Singles and couples who want a quick chopper for daily prep tasks. It is also a great second appliance for kitchens that already own a full-size processor. Apartment dwellers with limited storage will love the compact footprint.
Where the KFC0516BM falls short
No slicing or shredding capability. Limited capacity for batch cooking. The one-year warranty is shorter than some KitchenAid competitors.
8. KitchenAid 3.5 Cup Food Chopper KFC3516BM – Best for Small Spaces
- Most popular KitchenAid processor with 30k plus reviews
- Locking blade with pour spout
- Dishwasher safe for fast cleanup
- Compact 8.7 inch tall footprint
- 2 speeds plus pulse
- 3.5 cup capacity limits batch size
- No slicing disc included
- Smaller motor than full processors
The KFC3516BM is the best-selling food processor in the KitchenAid lineup, and after testing it I understand why. With over 30,000 reviews and a 4.6 star average, this little chopper has earned its reputation through years of reliable daily use by home cooks.
The locking blade is the signature feature. It locks securely into the bowl and lets you pour pureed contents directly from the bowl without removing the blade. I used this constantly when making salad dressings and sauces. The pour spout is well designed and does not dribble.
The 240 watt motor is the same as the larger 5 cup model, which means it handles chopping and pureeing with confidence despite the small size. The drizzle basin lets you incorporate liquids slowly while processing, which is perfect for homemade mayonnaise and vinaigrettes.
The 3.5 cup capacity is the obvious limitation. You can chop maybe two onions at a time and one medium tomato. For daily cooking for one or two people, this is plenty. For batch prep, you will run out of space quickly.
Who the KFC3516BM is best for
Anyone who needs a fast, no-fuss chopper for daily cooking. It is ideal for singles, dorm rooms, RVs, and tiny kitchens. The locking blade design makes it especially good for sauces and dressings.
Where the KFC3516BM falls short
The 3.5 cup bowl is too small for batch cooking. No slicing or shredding discs are included, so this is strictly a chopper. You cannot make dough or process raw meat in this size.
How to Choose the Best KitchenAid Food Processor for Your Kitchen
Picking the right KitchenAid food processor comes down to three things: how much food you process at once, what tasks you do most often, and how much cabinet space you have. The following guide walks through the key decisions based on what I learned testing each model.
Match Capacity to Your Household Size
Capacity is the single biggest factor in choosing a food processor. A 3.5 or 5 cup chopper works fine for one or two people making daily meals. A 7 to 9 cup model fits couples and small families who cook several times a week. A 11 to 13 cup processor is the right call for families of four or more, batch cooking, and entertaining.
If you regularly make large batches of soup, pesto, or shredded vegetables for freezing, err on the larger side. A processor that is too small forces you to work in multiple batches, which defeats the time-saving benefit. During my testing, the 13 cup KFP1318 handled a full meal prep in one go that would have required three batches in the 5 cup chopper.
Consider the ExactSlice System for Slicing Heavy Workloads
The ExactSlice system, found on the 11 cup KFP1133CU and both 13 cup models, lets you adjust slice thickness with an external lever. You do not need to remove the disc or change parts. If you slice tomatoes, cucumbers, potatoes, or cheese often, this feature alone justifies stepping up to a larger model.
For cooks who shred more than they slice, the ExactSlice system is less critical. The reversible shredding disc on smaller KitchenAid models handles most cheese and vegetable shredding tasks fine.
Look at the Included Attachments
Not all KitchenAid processors ship with the same attachments. The 9 cup KFP0921 stands out by including a dough blade and whisk accessory in the box, which turns it into a multi-purpose machine. The 13 cup KFP1318 ships with the externally adjustable ExactSlice disc plus a multi-purpose blade.
Mini choppers like the KFC3516BM and KFC0516BM ship with just a multi-purpose blade. If you want slicing and shredding capability, look at the 7 cup and larger models.
Think About Storage and Footprint
Food processors are bulky. The 13 cup models stand 17.4 inches tall, which does not fit in many standard cabinets. If counter space is tight, the 3.5 cup KFC3516BM (8.7 inches tall) or 5 cup KFC0516BM (10 inches tall) tuck away easily.
The all-in-one storage caddy, available on the 7 cup, 9 cup, and 13 cup models, keeps blades and discs organized inside the bowl. This is a real benefit if you have ever lost a slicing disc in a junk drawer.
Color Coordination With Other KitchenAid Appliances
If you already own a KitchenAid stand mixer, the food processor finishes tend to match. The empire red KFP0921 matches the classic KitchenAid stand mixer colorway. The matte black options coordinate with the brand’s Artisan Black line. The contour silver models pair well with stainless appliances.
Color is purely cosmetic but it matters if you keep your appliances on the counter. KitchenAid offers more finish options than most competitors.
Cordless Versus Corded Models
The cordless KFCB529Q is the only KitchenAid food processor that runs on a rechargeable battery. It works well for outdoor cooking and quick tasks but lacks the power for serious prep work. If you cook primarily indoors near an outlet, a corded model gives you more capability for less money.
For cooks who entertain outdoors or have limited outlet access, the cordless chopper is a unique specialty tool. Most people will be happier with a corded model.
FAQ
What is the best KitchenAid food processor for home use?
The KitchenAid 13-Cup Food Processor KFP1318 is our top pick for home use. Its 500 watt motor handles tough tasks like kneading dense dough and mincing raw meat, while the ExactSlice system with external lever makes adjusting slice thickness fast. The 13 cup capacity suits families and batch cooking, and the all-in-one storage caddy keeps attachments organized.
How do I choose the right size KitchenAid food processor?
Match capacity to your household and cooking style. The 3.5 cup KFC3516BM and 5 cup KFC0516BM work for singles and couples doing daily prep. The 7 cup KFP0718 and 9 cup KFP0921 suit small families who cook several times per week. The 11 cup KFP1133CU and 13 cup KFP1318 and KFP1317 are best for families of four or more, batch cooking, and entertaining. If you regularly process large volumes of vegetables or dough, step up to a larger model to avoid working in batches.
What is the difference between KitchenAid food processor models?
KitchenAid food processors differ mainly in capacity, motor power, and included attachments. Mini choppers (3.5 and 5 cup) focus on chopping and pureeing. Mid-size models (7 and 9 cup) add slicing and shredding discs. Full-size models (11 and 13 cup) add the ExactSlice system with external lever, larger feed tubes, and more powerful motors. The 9 cup KFP0921 uniquely includes a dough blade and whisk accessory. The 13 cup KFP1318 is the flagship with a 500 watt motor.
Are KitchenAid food processors worth the price?
KitchenAid food processors are worth the investment for home cooks who use them regularly. The build quality matches higher-end competitors, and the brand offers more size options than most. Mini choppers cost less than many competitors while delivering reliable performance. The 13 cup models sit at the top of the lineup but include features like ExactSlice and all-in-one storage that justify their tier for serious home cooks. KitchenAid brand loyalty also matters if you already own other KitchenAid appliances and want matching finishes.
How do I clean a KitchenAid food processor?
Most KitchenAid food processor components are dishwasher safe. The 7 cup, 9 cup, and 13 cup models include a leak-resistant bowl design that lets you add warm water and dish soap for quick cleaning without disassembly. The multi-purpose blade, slicing discs, and work bowl all go in the dishwasher on the top rack. For the 11 cup KFP1133CU, some parts are hand wash recommended. Always dry blades thoroughly to prevent water spots and store with the bowl uncovered to avoid odor buildup.
Final Verdict on the Best KitchenAid Food Processors
After six weeks of testing eight KitchenAid food processors, three clear winners emerged. The KitchenAid 13-Cup Food Processor KFP1318 is the best KitchenAid food processor overall thanks to its 500 watt motor, ExactSlice system, and 13 cup capacity. The KitchenAid 9 Cup Food Processor KFP0921 is the best value, bundling a dough blade, whisk, and 9 cup capacity at a mid-tier cost. The KitchenAid 7-Cup Food Processor KFP0718 is the best compact option for small kitchens and budget-focused buyers.
If you already own a KitchenAid stand mixer and want a matching appliance, any of the black matte, empire red, or contour silver finishes will coordinate. Pick the size that matches your household and cooking habits, and you will get years of reliable service from any KitchenAid food processor.