Is a Belle Mixer worthwhile over a cheaper brand for DIY projects?

[23vc]

I’ve got a belle which I bought 2nd hand in 2011, I’ve used it to build a couple of extensions and a load of other stuff, it’s never missed a beat. Although I’m embarrassed to admit I only found out recently you can give the drum a gentle anticlockwise twist and it comes straight off, making getting it in the car on your own a doddle rather than a hernia!

 

[mrrusty]

+1 for the cheap screwfix. I've had the screwfix one https://www.screwfix.com/p/electric-concrete-mixer-230v/10107 for 7-8 years. Doesn't get used that often, so for DIY use is absolutely fine.

 

[stuart45]

Mine's had regular use, and is still going strong. I've always had Belle before, but thought I'd this one a go when the gearbox packed up on the Belle. The build quality doesn't look quite as good, but for the price I'd say it's a good mixer.

 

[23vc]

If the drum is removable easy like the belle, I may go for the SF one next time if and when the belle eventually kicks the bucket. It’s a big bonus if you want to get it in the car on your own.

 

[stuart45]

I've never taken mine off, so don't know how easy it is to remove.

 

[cdbe]

I can spin mine off by hand but I've greased the spindle. My dads we ratchet strapped a block of wood on the drum and hit it round with a hammer the first time.