A food processor's best selling point is its ability to replace a number of other kitchen gadgets. A versatile food processor with the proper blades and attachments can chop food like a knife, knead bread like a mixer, blend ingredients like a power blender and extract juices like a commercial juicer. But many home cooks can be overwhelmed by the number of options presented by a food processor.

When shopping for a food processor, you should consider power, portability and functionality. Food processors range in size from a miniature two cup chopper to a 20 cup professional model for bulk cooking and preparation. The first trick is to buy a food processor which matches your particular cooking needs. Most home cooks could use a medium-size food processor (approximately 8-10 cup capacity) for family recipes. Smaller mini-processors could prove handy for quick chopping of a few ingredients, so having two different machines may not be a bad idea. Save the largest sizes for professionals and caterers, unless you anticipate the occasional need for bulk cooking.

Another important consideration when buying a food processor is power. Larger units naturally require more power to knead bread doughs and break up hard vegetables. Look for at least 400 watts of power for an average food processor. Professional units may feature 750 watts or more, which is more than enough power to handle any food preparation.

One consideration which can separate a good food processor from the rest of the pack is the available accessories. An ideal unit should contain blades, cutting disks and whisks. The cutting tools should be well-constructed and fit securely in the machine. A generous feeding tube with a plunging device is also a good feature. Small feeding tubes can cause cooks to spend significant time cutting food down to size before processing. A good food processor allows for food to be added while in operation. A blender attachment can save time and shelf space, while a juicer option duplicates the function of a more expensive machine.

Because a food processor is designed to replace a number of other appliances, storage and portability may also be a consideration. Some food processors feature retractable cords or a stacking system for blades and accessories. Most of the food processing parts should be dishwasher-safe, or at least easy to clean by hand. For cooks with small children, a better food processor may have a locking system to prevent accidental start-ups.

Learning which attachments perform specific tasks in a food processor takes time, so study the owner's manual carefully for tips on getting the best results from your new kitchen appliance.