Electric Kettles: A Modern Kitchen Essential
We tested various electric kettles to find out which ones are energy-efficient, heat water quickly, are user-friendly, and add a stylish touch to your kitchen.
Selecting the top-rated electric kettle may seem simple since it’s mainly used for boiling water. However, it’s not that straightforward. In a tea-loving country like the US, where 100 million cups of tea are consumed every day, the appearance, functionality, and performance of your kettle matter more than you might initially believe.
Electric kettles have emerged as a modern kitchen essential that combines speed, efficiency, and versatility. These small yet powerful appliances have revolutionized the way we prepare hot beverages and even some foods.
Understanding Electric Kettles
Electric kettles are countertop appliances designed to quickly heat water, bringing it to a boil in a matter of minutes. They consist of a base with an integrated heating element, a water reservoir, and a lid. The simplicity of their design belies their functionality, making them incredibly user-friendly. To help you out, we’ve compiled a list of the 8 best top-rated electric kettles based on their features, performance, and customer reviews.
Why We Use?
Electric kettles are versatile kitchen appliances appreciated for their rapid water boiling capabilities, energy efficiency, and safety features. They quickly heat water, making them ideal for tea, coffee, and various cooking tasks. Their energy-efficient design minimizes heat loss and reduces environmental impact. Many models offer variable temperature control for precise beverage preparation and keep-warm functions for convenience. Their multifunctional utility makes them a valuable addition to any household.
Best Electric Kettles: Our Top Picks
- Best overall – Cuisinart PerfecTemp Electric Kettle
- Best value kettle – Hamilton Beach Electric Kettle
- Quietest kettle –KitchenAid Electric Kettle
- Best kettle for elderly or disabled people –Breville Variable-Temperature Kettle
- Best for automatic–Mueller Electric Kettle
- Best looking kettle – Alessi Electric Kettle
1. Cuisinart PerfecTemp Electric Kettle
Price: $99.45
The Cuisinart CPK-17 PerfecTemp Electric Kettle is a top-rated electric kettle that features six preset temperature settings for steeping various types of tea, French press coffee, and more. It has a 1.7-liter capacity and a 1500-watt heating element that heats water quickly. The kettle is made of stainless steel and has a blue backlit water window for easy monitoring. The cordless design and 360-degree swivel base make it easy to use.
Pros:
- Six preset temperature settings for different types of tea and coffee
- Fast heating element
- Large capacity
- Stainless steel construction
- Easy to use and monitor
Cons:
- Expensive
2. Hamilton Beach Electric Kettle
Price: $54.99
| Brand | Hamilton Beach |
| Capacity | 1.7 Liters |
| Material | Stainless Steel |
| Color | Stainless Steel |
| Special Feature | Indicator Light, Temperature Control, Programmable |
The Hamilton Beach 40880C Electric Kettle is a budget-friendly option that still delivers great performance. It has a 1.7-liter capacity and a 1500-watt heating element that boils water quickly. The kettle is made of stainless steel and has a drip-free spout and a removable mesh filter for easy cleaning. It also features an automatic shutoff and boil-dry protection for safety.
Pros:
- Budget-friendly
- Fast heating element
- Large capacity
- Stainless steel construction
- Automatic shutoff and boil-dry protection
Cons:
- Lacks temperature control settings
3. Breville BKE820XL Variable-Temperature Kettle
Price: $139.95
The Breville BKE820XL Variable-Temperature Kettle is a high-end electric kettle that offers precise temperature control for different types of tea and coffee. It has a 1.8-liter capacity and a 1500-watt heating element that heats water quickly.
The kettle is made of brushed stainless steel and has a large water window for easy monitoring. It also features a 360-degree swivel base and cord storage for convenience.
Pros:
- Precise temperature control
- Large capacity
- Fast heating element
- Stainless steel construction
- Easy to use and monitor
Cons:
- Issues with durability
4. KitchenAid KEK1222PT Electric Kettle
Price: $99.95
| Brand | KitchenAid |
| Capacity | 1.25 Liters |
| Material | Stainless Steel |
| Color | Pistashio |
| Special Feature | Removable Lid |
The KitchenAid KEK1222PT Electric Kettle is a stylish and functional electric kettle that has a 1.25-liter capacity and a 1500-watt heating element. It features a dual-wall insulation that keeps the water hot for longer and reduces noise.
The KitchenAid kettle is made of stainless steel and has a removable base for easy cleaning. It also features a lime scale filter and an automatic shutoff for safety.
Pros:
- Stylish design
- Dual-wall insulation for heat retention and noise reduction
- Fast heating element
- Stainless steel construction
- Automatic shutoff and lime scale filter
Cons:
- Smaller capacity
5. Mueller Premium 1500W Electric Kettle
Price: $32.97
| Brand | Mueller Austria |
| Capacity | 1.8 Liters |
| Material | M99S |
| Color | Clear |
| Special Feature | 7 Cup Capacity, Made of Non-Toxic, High Quality Materials, |
Mueller Premium Electric Kettle has a capacity of 1.8 liters and features a rapid-boil system that heats water quickly. It also has an automatic shut-off function and a LED light indicator.
Pros:
- Rapid-boil system heats water quickly
- Automatic shut-off function for safety
- LED light indicator
- Affordable price
Cons:
- No temperature control settings
6. Bonavita 1L Digital Variable Temperature Gooseneck Electric Kettle
Price: $129.99
| Brand | Bonavita |
| Capacity | 1 Liters |
| Material | Stainless Steel |
| Color | Brushed Stainless Steel |
| Special Feature | Digital Display, Temperature Control, Rapid Boil |
Bonavita Electric Kettle has a capacity of 1 liter and features six temperature settings for different types of tea and coffee. It also has a keep-warm function and a durable stainless steel construction.
Pros:
- Six temperature settings for different types of tea and coffee
- Keep-warm function
- Durable stainless steel construction
- Compact size
Cons:
- Higher price
7. Chefman Electric Kettle
Price: $19.99
| Brand | Chefman |
| Capacity | 1.7 Liters |
| Material | Glass |
| Special Feature | Manual |
| Package Information | Glass |
Chefman Electric Kettle has a capacity of 1.7 liters and features a rapid-boil system that heats water quickly. This Electric Glass Tea Kettle has a temperature control panel and a keep-warm function.
Pros:
- Temperature control panel
- Rapid-boil system heats water quickly
- Keep-warm function
- Affordable price
Cons:
- A bit bulky and takes up counter space
8. Alessi Kettle
Price: $123.86
| Color | Blue |
| Material | Stainless Steel |
| Brand | Alessi |
| Item Weight | 270 Grams |
| Style | Whistling |
The Alessi kettle is a beautifully designed electric kettle that combines functionality and style. It has a 1.5-liter capacity and a magnetic steel bottom suitable for induction cooktops.
One of the unique features of the Alessi kettle is its bird-shaped whistle, which produces a pleasing sound when the water reaches boiling point. The handle is designed for comfort and ease of use, and the spout is designed for precise pouring without dripping.
Pros:
- Sleek and modern design
- Large capacity
- Made with high-quality stainless steel for durability and longevity
- Easy to use and operate with a simple on/off switch and automatic shut-off feature
- Wide spout allows for easy pouring without spilling or splashing
Cons:
- Higher price
Conclusion
Choosing the best electric kettle depends on your specific needs, whether it’s rapid boiling, precise temperature control, or stylish design. The eight electric kettles mentioned in this article offer a range of options to suit different preferences. Consider your priorities and select the one that will make your daily hot beverage preparation a breeze while enhancing your kitchen’s functionality and aesthetics.
How we test electric tea kettles
Our team of experts conducts comprehensive tests on electric tea kettles to provide valuable insights for consumers. We start by assessing the kettle’s speed and efficiency by measuring the time it takes to boil a standard amount of water. Energy consumption is calculated to determine its eco-friendliness. Capacity tests help users understand how much liquid the kettle can hold. Safety features such as automatic shut-off and boil-dry protection are rigorously evaluated to ensure user safety.
For kettles with temperature control settings, we test their ability to maintain specific temperatures for various beverages. Noise levels during boiling are recorded, especially for those used in quiet environments. Build quality, materials, and durability are scrutinized, taking into account ease of use, cleaning, and user feedback. Finally, we analyze the price in relation to the kettle’s features and functionalities to provide a well-rounded assessment. These expert tests aim to guide consumers in making informed decisions when choosing the right electric tea kettle for their specific needs.
What to look for when buying an electric kettle
When buying an electric kettle, there are several important factors to consider to ensure you get the right one for your needs:
- Capacity: Determine how much water you need to boil regularly. Electric kettles come in various sizes, so choose one that suits your typical usage. For individuals or couples, a smaller kettle may suffice, while larger families might require a kettle with a higher capacity.
- Speed: Check the kettle’s wattage to gauge how quickly it can boil water. Higher wattage typically means faster boiling times. If you’re in a hurry, opt for a kettle with a higher wattage.
- Safety Features: Look for kettles with safety features like automatic shut-off and boil-dry protection. These features ensure that the kettle switches off when the water reaches boiling point or when there’s insufficient water, preventing accidents and damage.
- Material: Electric kettles come in various materials, including stainless steel, glass, and plastic. Stainless steel kettles are durable and easy to clean, while glass kettles allow you to see the water boiling. Plastic kettles may be lighter but can be less durable.
- Noise Level: Some kettles can be noisy during the boiling process. If you’re sensitive to noise or have a quiet household, consider a kettle known for its quiet operation.
- Brand Reputation and Reviews: Research brands with a good reputation for producing reliable and safe electric kettles. Reading reviews from other consumers can provide valuable insights into the kettle’s performance and durability.
FAQs
- How does an electric kettle work?
Electric kettles work by heating water using a heating element, usually made of stainless steel. When you plug in the kettle and turn it on, electricity flows through the heating element, generating heat. This heat is transferred to the water, causing it to boil. - What is the advantage of using an electric kettle over a stovetop kettle?
Electric kettles are known for their speed and convenience. They can boil water faster than stovetop kettles because they have a direct heat source. Additionally, many electric kettles come with features like automatic shut-off, temperature control, and keep-warm functions. -
Are electric kettles energy-efficient?
Yes, electric kettles are generally energy-efficient because they are designed to heat water quickly and efficiently. They only use the amount of energy needed to boil the water you pour into them, making them more efficient than boiling water on a stovetop.
- Can I use an electric kettle to boil liquids other than water?
Electric kettles are primarily designed for boiling water, but they can also be used to heat other liquids like milk or tea. However, it’s essential to clean the kettle thoroughly after using it for liquids other than water to prevent residue buildup. -
What safety features should I look for in an electric kettle?
When choosing an electric kettle, look for safety features such as automatic shut-off, boil-dry protection (which turns off the kettle when there’s no water), and a secure, cool-touch handle. These features help prevent accidents and ensure safe operation.
- Can I descale an electric kettle?
Yes, electric kettles can develop mineral deposits over time, especially if you have hard water. Descaling your kettle is essential to maintain its performance. You can use a descaling solution or a mixture of vinegar and water to remove these deposits. - What is the average lifespan of an electric kettle?
The lifespan of an electric kettle can vary depending on its quality and usage. On average, a good-quality electric kettle can last for several years, with some lasting even longer. Regular cleaning and maintenance can help extend its lifespan. -
Can I leave water in the kettle between uses?
It’s generally safe to leave water in the kettle between uses, but it’s a good practice to empty and rinse the kettle regularly. Standing water can develop impurities or a metallic taste over time. Emptying and refilling before each use is the best way to ensure clean, fresh-tasting water.
- Do electric kettles come with a warranty?
Many electric kettles come with a manufacturer’s warranty, typically ranging from one to three years. Be sure to check the warranty details when purchasing to understand what is covered and for how long. - Can I use an electric kettle to make instant noodles or soup?
Yes, you can use an electric kettle to heat water for instant noodles or soup. However, be cautious with soup as some electric kettles may not be suitable for liquids with solid ingredients due to the risk of spilling or clogging.
