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I’m aware a lot of people love their Thermomix. However, I also understand that it comes with a hefty price tag for a kitchen gadget.
While Thermomix holds the title of the most renowned thermo-cooker on the market, there are other options available that might pique your interest if you’re considering entering the world of thermo-cooking.
Thermo-cookers offer faster and more convenient cooking, ultimately leading to potential cost savings in the long term. Referred to as “life-changing” by many owners, these appliances leave them wondering how they managed without one before.
What is a thermo-cooker?
These kitchen “robots” serve multiple functions of various kitchen appliances, encompassing tasks like weighing ingredients, chopping, grating, blending, kneading, cooking, and steaming.
As a result, they simplify the process of all-in-one batch cooking and eliminate the accumulation of dirty dishes and pans.
Undoubtedly, the crème de la crème and the ultimate leader among thermo-cookers is the Thermomix. It sets the benchmark that all other thermo-cookers aim to achieve. However, numerous contenders vie for the same throne.
Now, what makes the Thermomix so exceptional? Is it truly worth its price? And how do the alternatives to Thermomix measure up?
Let’s dive deep and discover the answers. The following are the Thermomix alternatives covered in this article:
- Xiaomi Smart Cooking Robot
- TOKIT Omni Cook Robot All-in-1 Cooker OUR PICK
- Lifeite Auto Cook All-in-1 Food Processor The cheapest
- Kitchen Idea Kody 21 smart cooking Machine
What is a Thermomix?
The Thermomix holds its position as the most renowned thermo-cooker available, offering a versatile combination of an all-in-one food processor and cooker with a multitude of functions.
From chopping, milling, crushing, grating, and kneading to sautéing, simmering, steaming, and blending, the Thermomix does it all. The latest TM6 model takes it a step further, incorporating additional functions such as fermenting, sous-vide cooking, slow cooking, rice cooking, and egg boiling.
One particularly impressive feature that captivates many users is the Guided Cooking function. Accessed through a 20cm touchscreen with built-in WiFi, this function opens up a world of over 60,000 Thermomix recipes on the Cookidoo recipe platform.
Constantly updated with new recipes, this ensures that even inexperienced cooks can confidently create a diverse array of impressive meals, following simple step-by-step instructions.
Temperature control is precise and consistent, thanks to the ability to heat the 2.3-quart stainless steel mixing bowl from 37 to 160 degrees centigrade, while integrated sensors ensure accuracy. The specialized kneading function removes the effort of kneading dough, and the continual steady speed stirring function allows for easy preparation of sauces and risottos without constant monitoring.
The built-in scale permits precise weighing of food in 1g increments. In addition to features like yogurt or kimchi fermentation, the Thermomix can handle high-temperature browning of onions, meat, and fish, as well as creating delightful desserts like caramel and honeycomb.
Moreover, the slow, low-heat cooking function delivers tender, flavourful meat and exceptional results for sous-vide preparations of meat, fish, and vegetables.
Why consider a Thermomix alternative?
The Thermomix has evolved significantly since its inception in 1961, with the latest model, TM6, marking the 9th generation and the first fully digital version. Boasting over 24 features and self-updating software that improves independently, the Thermomix appears to be a comprehensive and innovative choice.
However, despite its numerous features and decades of innovation, some individuals may still consider opting for a Thermomix alternative. Let’s explore the reasons behind this choice:
- Availability: Unlike Thermomix alternatives, which can be purchased directly from platforms like Lazada and promptly delivered, the Thermomix is exclusively available through Thermomix or independent advisors offering demonstrations.
- Cost: The Thermomix is known for its high price point, making it a considerable investment compared to some alternative thermo-cookers.
- Guided Recipes: While many thermo-cookers offer guided recipes free of charge, accessing Thermomix’s guided recipes requires a membership to their Cookidoo platform.
- Bowl Size: Some other thermo-cookers feature larger bowls, which may be more suitable for cooking meals for larger families or groups.
- Lack of Food Processor Attachment: The Thermomix lacks a suitable food processor attachment, limiting its ability to slice or grate properly.
- Limited Visibility: Unlike some alternatives, the Thermomix does not provide a clear view of the cooking process inside the machine.
- Temperature Cap: When cooking manually, the Thermomix temperature is capped at 120°C, whereas the guided recipe function offers 160°C (requiring Cookidoo membership). Some competitors permit this higher temperature, useful for tasks like searing meat.
It’s important to consider that online recipes often cater to Thermomix cooking, requiring adjustments for other machines with varying settings like speed levels. Additionally, purchasing a Thermomix through a consultant ensures a dedicated point of contact for assistance and support.
Finally, the Thermomix’s integrated WiFi enables software updates, continuously enhancing the machine’s functionality, a feature that may not be available in some cheaper alternatives.
Alternatives to Thermomix
Numerous alternatives to the Thermomix can be found in the market, offering a wide range of functionalities and varying prices. Typically, higher-priced options tend to come with more extensive features.
Listed below are some of the top-notch alternatives to the Thermomix TM6:
- Xiaomi Smart Cooking Robot
- TOKIT Omni Cook Robot All-in-1 Cooker
- Lifeite Auto Cook All-in-1 Food Processor
- Kitchen Idea Kody 21 smart cooking Machine
Now, let’s closely examine each of these comparable Thermomix machines and assess their differences.
The Xiaomi Smart Cooking Robot Review
Xiaomi is undoubtedly a household name for most homeowners, so the Xiaomi Smart Cooking Robot could be a prominent rival to the TM6 from a branding standpoint.
These two thermo-cookers share many similarities.
The Xiaomi Smart Cooking Robot boasts the following key features:
- A 2.2L stainless-steel main pot with curved base
- A 3D induction heating technology for faster heat conduction and more even heat distribution
- A generously sized 8-inch touchscreen for easy viewing
- High power heating temperature can reach 180C, sufficient for stir-frying
- A switched reluctance motor capable of stir-frying and grinding
- 200+ built-in recipes
Xiaomi Smart Cooking Robot vs Thermomix
Let’s outline the key distinctions between the Xiaomi Smart Cooking Robot and the Thermomix TM6.
Compared to the Thermomix, the Xiaomi Smart Cooking Robot boasts a stainless steel bowl structured with 3 layers, making it both durable and efficient in heat performance. Furthermore, the heat-resistant plastic shell is designed to offer better protection against accidental burns.
The Xiaomi Smart Cooking Robot allows heating up to 180°C, while the Thermomix is only limited to 160°C through guided cooking.
The bowl also features a curved base with a wide neck, promoting smoother stir-frying and ensuring even heat distribution.
In terms of recipes, the Xiaomi Smart Cooking Robot provides 200+ recipes built-in, whereas the TM6 includes 120 built-in guided recipes and offers access to over 60,000 recipes via the Cookidoo subscription.
Pros
- The ability to cook up to 180°C without using guided cooking
- The 3-layer insulated bowl is incredibly effective at keeping meals warm
- Curved bowl base allows for more even heat distribution and ease of cleaning
- Free access to recipes
- Low price point compared to Thermomix
- Renowned brand
- Sleek, all-black matte design
Cons
- Not as many recipes available
- It takes up a lot of space
- Clunky and heavy
- New to kitchen appliance segment
Undoubtedly, the Xiaomi Smart Cooking Robot presents a high-quality machine from a reputable brand. I am particularly fond of its curved insulated bowl and the sleek, matte black finish throughout.
The TOKIT Omni Cook Robot All-in-1 Cooker Review Our pick
The TOKIT Omni Cook Robot All-in-1 Cooker stands as another multi-function, all-in-one cooking machine, boasting 21 functions and 11 cooking modes.
Like the Thermomix it comes with a 2 liter bowl, steamer trays, butterfly whisk and simmering basket. Plus it has a built-in scale.
A primary highlight and selling point of the TOKIT Omni Cook Robot All-in-1 Cooker is its app. Similar to the Thermomix, the TOKIT Omni Cook Robot All-in-1 Cooker includes a dedicated touchscreen, but the app offers way more convenience.
With the app, you can effortlessly monitor the progress of your cooking and even control certain settings, allowing you to continue cooking comfortably from your couch!
TOKIT vs Thermomix
The TOKIT stands as another remarkable multi-cook machine, taking clear inspiration from the Thermomix and offering a similar array of accessories, including a built-in scale, bowl, steamer trays, butterfly whisk, and simmering basket.
While the TOKIT encompasses 21 functions compared to Thermomix’s 24 functions, the WiFi integration allows for software updates, potentially expanding its function repertoire over time.
What sets TOKIT apart is its app, providing the convenience of controlling the device directly from your phone.
While TOKIT may have a smaller recipe library, the advantage lies in not charging for recipe subscriptions, granting access to all recipes as their library grows. In contrast, Thermomix requires an annual Cookidoo subscription, incurring an additional cost.
With TOKIT costing half of the Thermomix, it becomes an appealing option if you don’t require all the functions or an extensive recipe library at your disposal.
Pros
- App enables you to remotely monitor and control the machine using your phone
- Can heat up to 180°C without guided cooking
- More powerful blender action up to 12,000rpm
- Low price point compared to Thermomix
- Free access to recipes
Cons
- Not as many functions
- Not as many recipes available
- Recipes not available offline
Lifeite Auto Cook All-in-1 Food Processor Review
If you think your eyes are playing tricks on you, they’re not. The Lifeite Auto Cook All-in-1 Food Processor looks very similar to the TOKIT Omni Cook Robot.
In fact, it is a sub-brand of TOKIT mostly offering a secondary line of products that retail at lower prices.
The Lifeite Auto Cook All-in-1 Food Processor can therefore be described as TOKIT’s younger brother with a smaller price tag.
The machine is attractively designed and robust, featuring stabilizing feet and shock absorbers that prevent movement, even during heavy kneading.
It offers built-in, reliable culinary routines, including processes such as chopping, mixing, kneading, juicing, grinding, mincing, and ice shaving.
With the capability to reach temperatures as high as 180°C and a motor speed of up to 12000 rpm, it delivers a comparably versatile performance.
Overall, it’s a decent product. However, it is missing certain features.
Unlike TOKIT, the Lifeite does not have WiFi capabilities hence it is impossible to automatically update recipes. Additionally, the Lifeite’s screen is not a touch screen, and at 7 inches, is also smaller than TOKIT’s.
Lifeite vs TOKIT
The Lifeite can do most of the same functions as the TOKIT, but it runs the risk of becoming a brick. Without WiFi connectivity and any potential future updates, there is a risk of the device becoming obsolete and losing functionality.
Furthermore, for many users accustomed to touch screens, the absence of one in the device might serve as a discouraging factor. On the flip side, it boasts a shorter learning curve, making it ideal for those who are less technically inclined.
Although the TOKIT comes at a significantly lower price than the Thermomix, it still demands a substantial investment. Similar to the iPhone SE, Lifeite serves as TOKIT’s more budget-friendly thermo-cooker, intended to offer an affordable alternative to their flagship devices.
Pros
- Cheaper than TOKIT and Thermomix
- Serves as many functions as TOKIT
- Accessories of the two products are identical and can be shared
Cons
- Cannot connect to WIFI and cannot automatically update recipes and software
- Screen is small and lacks touchscreen functionality
- Not as many recipes available and feedback on the recipes isn’t great
- New on the market and has not proven the test of time
The Kitchen Idea Kody 21 Smart Cooking Machine Review
The Kitchen Idea Kody 21 is our last recommendation for a solid Thermomix alternative. This versatile multi-cooker offers most of the functions and modes of the products we’ve mentioned above.
Kody can function as a blender, kettle, electronic scale, whisk, juicer machine, soy milk maker, dough maker, grinder, rice cooker, and more.
Like the Thermomix it comes with a 2-liter bowl, a steamer basket, butterfly whisk and spatula. However, Kody’s steamer is made of stainless steel instead of plastic – great for users concerned about the health risks of using plastic in high temperatures.
Interestingly, the Kody also comes with not one, but three stainless steel blade attachments specially designed for better performance in stir-frying, kneading and other functions.
Its main selling point seems to be its specific positioning for Asia. Unlike its German competitor, Kody appeals to the Asian consumer with the ability to reach temperatures as high as 180C and adjustable heating level from 1 to 10 – perfect conditions for wok hei.
Kody also boasts over 1000 free guided recipes built into the machine, giving users more choices without having to go through a paywall.
In addition, the company offers an extended warranty period of 3 years, surpassing the coverage provided by other brands in the market, giving customers added peace of mind and confidence in their purchase.
Kitchen Idea Kody 21 vs Thermomix
The Kody 21 can do most of the same functions as the TM6, but it is considerably much cheaper TM6.
Despite a relatively extensive recipe library, they provide them at no cost, allowing access to all recipes as their library expands. On the other hand, Thermomix requires an annual Cookidoo subscription.
With a price tag approximately a third of the Thermomix, this could be an excellent choice if you are less concerned about certain functions and having an extensive recipe library at your disposal.
Pros
- Large repository of free recipes, 1000+ and growing
- No recipe subscription needed
- 10 adjustable heating levels, offering culinary versatility
- Comes with 3 stainless steel blade attachments specifically for stir-frying, kneading and others
- Extended warranty period of 3 years
Cons
- New in the Singapore market and has not proven the test of time
- Takes up more space than Thermomix
