Reply #36: The biggest difference is that it has no motor

[Stinky The Clown]

It uses the mixer for power. I have had two other self-contained units - a Braun and a Cuisinart - and both failed. Not from overuse or abuse, just because they were cheaply built. In both cases an internal plastic part in the motor assembly simply broke. (In the case of the Braun, it may have been faulty from the factory, but I never bothered to return it. I know it had an internal rattle when I first used it.)

I guess it can be said the Kitchenaid is more expensive because it costs the same as other name brands (about $70) but has NO motor. As I said, it only has 3 parts, but they seem to be of higher quality (beefier and of better finish) than any others I've seen.