Project Scale
The first thing to think about is the scale of your project. This will decide the amount of concrete you will need so you can select a concrete mixer by volume.
Mini projects like crafts and DIYs require a few pounds of concrete. For such small quantities, you won't need any power tools. You can mix the concrete by hand with a sturdy bucket and a spade.
Mini Projects
Mini projects are those that require 2–5 bags of concrete mix. Each bag is about 80 pounds, so that's 160-400 lbs of concrete mix. Once mixed, you will get approximately 1–3 cubic feet of concrete. This is enough for patching your driveway or making a planter. You can use a bucket and a hand drill with a mixing arm attachment. This should be sufficient for mini household projects.
Small Scale Projects
Small scale projects will use 6–9 bags of concrete mix. It will yield up to 5 cubic feet of concrete. This is enough to make a small countertop or a few stepping stones for your garden. For this scale, use a single-paddle mud mixer. It offers a better grip than a hand drill with a paddle attachment. It has an engine with 1.9 horsepower, which is more powerful than a 1000 watt hand drill.
Medium Scale Projects
Medium scale household projects are those that will use up 10 or more bags of concrete mix. That's anything over 5 cubic feet of concrete. This is for projects such as laying a small foundation or setting out a walkway. For such a sizable project, look for a powerful concrete mixer with a volume capacity of about 6 cubic feet.
Large Scale Projects
Some projects require more than 10 cubic feet of concrete, like laying out flooring in a room. It would be best to use a concrete mixer with a drum capacity of at least 14 cubic units. While you can still use a smaller one, it would be laborious to mix so many batches.
Frequency of Use
Next, you will need to think about how frequently you will use the concrete mixer. Even if your projects are small scale, if you work on them often, consider investing in a power mixer.
For occasional use, a concrete mixer with a volume capacity of 2 cubic feet will suffice. You can look for an electric concrete mixer as they are cheaper and low-maintenance. They are also lightweight and compact, making them convenient for indoor use.
If you frequent a worksite and need to mix concrete, cement or drywall, you will need a big concrete mixer. Look for one with a drum capacity of at least 4 cubic feet. If you can easily access electricity at your worksite, choose an electric concrete mixer.
If you’re a professional who frequently uses their cement mixer, choose one with a drum capacity of 5–6 cubic feet. Machines with a larger drum need a more powerful engine. Fuel-powered mixers are more powerful than electric ones, so look for a mixer with a combustion engine.
Size and Portability
The volume of concrete will also determine the size of the concrete mixer. While bigger mixers can hold more material, they have some disadvantages. Bigger mixers are not as portable as the smaller ones. For projects that require the mixer to move between multiple sites, prioritize a portable option.
A more portable option is a handheld mud mixer, but you will need to do multiple batches for larger volumes. Portable concrete mixers are lightweight and compact. Some even come with a wheelbarrow attachment, perfect for navigating construction sites. The wheels should be strong enough to travel on uneven terrain and they should also be stable enough to not tip over while pouring out the concrete.
If your project is stationary, a larger, non-portable mixer might be more efficient. Electric concrete mixers are suitable for indoor use since you’re more likely to have access to a power source. Gas concrete mixers can be transported anywhere but they tend to be slightly heavier than electric mixers.
Performance
Quick and efficient mixing of concrete helps your construction project go smoothly. A powerful concrete mixer will rotate fast without overheating.
Electric concrete mixers range from 0.5 to 0.75 horsepower. Gas powered concrete mixers have more powerful engines, with 2.5 horsepower. Regardless of power source, concrete mixers are designed to rotate their drums at a specific speed. This optimal mixing speed is 24–28 RPM. The contents will be thoroughly combined without getting over-mixed.
Your output also depends on how you use the mixer. A concrete mixer can only be filled up to 80% of its capacity. Performance will be affected if you overload the mixer.
You will also need to consider the type of concrete you are mixing. Gas engines provide more power at lower speeds which is better for thick concrete. Electric mixers tend to have lower overall power output, limiting them to smaller batches of concrete mix. However, electric motors are much quieter than gas motors, making them better for noise-sensitive areas.
Durability and Maintenance
Construction is a rigorous affair, so prioritize durability in your concrete mixer. Both gas and electric mixers will last long if cared for properly. Gas mixers might have a slight advantage due to their frame and engine power. But electric mixers can also be very reliable, especially for lighter-duty applications.
Gas mixers have heavy-duty steel frames that resist wear and tear. Electric mixers can also be made from steel, but some use plastic to reduce weight. Plastic drums are lightweight and easier to clean, but they wear out faster.
Most mixers have already been treated for water resistance. In electric mixers, look for a motor with an IP rating of IP45 or higher. This rating indicates the level of dust and water resistance.
Gas engines will last for a long time. However, when it comes to maintenance, they are more complex than electric motors. They require regular oil changes and spark plug replacements. Look for options that have an extended warranty on them in case of damage.
Cost
Prices vary based on the concrete mixer’s size, power and features. Smaller mixers with low-powered motors will be cheaper, starting at $400. Prices increase based on the drum size and engine capacity. In general, electric concrete mixers are cheaper than gas-powered mixers. They cost less upfront and also require less maintenance in the long run.
You also need to consider the add-ons and accessories you may need to buy with your concrete mixer. You may need a separate mixer stand to prop your mixer into an upright position. Larger mixers may need a hopper or chute to help with pouring your materials.
How to Choose a Concrete Mixer
Choosing a concrete mixer isn't one-size-fits-all. Think about your project size, how often you'll use it, how easy it needs to move and how powerful it should be. Don't forget your budget and how much maintenance you would need to deal with. Considering all these factors, you should be able to choose the perfect mixer for your project.
Always use proper safety equipment when working with concrete. Use a respirator or mask to avoid breathing in the dust. Wear industrial gloves when handling mixed concrete as it can cause burns if exposed to bare skin.