Thermomix TM5 · 2014–2019
The first touchscreen model — guided cooking needs a Cook-Key.
The TM5 replaced the dial-driven TM31 with a colour touchscreen and a proper built-in scale, but it has no wifi of its own. Guided Cookidoo recipes only work with a Cook-Key accessory plugged into the machine — one of the biggest value swings in a used listing.
What a used TM5 sells for
Typical resale range, by condition
- Well used
- €280–€420
- Good condition
- €420–€600
- Like new, with Cook-Key + Varoma
- €600–€850
A TM5 without its Cook-Key is worth noticeably less, since guided cooking simply won't work without one — factor a spare Cook-Key (bought separately) into your offer if it's missing.
Launched at roughly €1,150–€1,200 new; discontinued when the TM6 arrived. These are estimates from current secondhand listings, not a live quote — condition, included accessories, and location all move the number.
Before you buy
What to check on a used TM5
Ask specifically whether the Cook-Key is included
Without it, you get manual cooking only — no guided recipes. Cook-Keys are sold separately and often go missing from listings that only mention "the machine."
Confirm it's a genuine TM5 bowl and knife, not a TM6's
The bowls can physically swap between a TM5 and TM6 base, but the machine will throw an error rather than cook with the wrong one — check the model stamp underneath.
Check the touchscreen for dead pixels or unresponsive spots
It's the main way you interact with the machine, so test tapping through a few menus rather than just glancing at it.
Run the blade-seal leak test
Fill the bowl with water, leave it on paper towel for an hour, and check for dampness — a worn seal is common on a machine this age and is a cheap, known fix.
Check the scale reads accurately
Weigh something with a known weight on the machine and compare — an inaccurate scale throws off every recipe that relies on it.
Compatibility
Accessories that fit a TM5
- Cook-Key
- TM5-specific. Required for Cookidoo guided cooking. If it's missing, treat the listing as manual-only and price accordingly.
- Varoma steamer
- Shared with the TM6.
- Butterfly whisk
- Shared across TM5, TM6 and TM7.
- Simmering basket
- Shared with the TM6.
Questions about the TM5
Something else on your mind? Email the team.
Do I need a Cook-Key to use a TM5?
Only for guided, step-by-step Cookidoo recipes. Without one, you can still cook manually using the touchscreen and dial controls — it just won't walk you through the recipe.
Can I use TM6 accessories on a TM5?
The Varoma, butterfly whisk and simmering basket carry over. The bowl and knife look interchangeable but aren't — the machine will error out on the wrong pairing.
Is a TM5 worth buying over an older TM31?
If you want a touchscreen, a built-in scale, and the option to add guided cooking later via a Cook-Key, yes. If you just want a reliable manual machine at the lowest price, the TM31 is usually cheaper.
Something else on your mind? Email the team.
Comparing models?
- TM7
The newest model, with a camera that helps guide the recipe.
- TM6
Built-in wifi and guided cooking, no extra dongle required.
- TM31
The dial-and-button classic — no screen, no wifi, still working in a lot of kitchens.
Buying secondhand? Read the buyer's checklist for the checks that apply across every model.
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