With the rise in popularity of electric kettles, it’s no surprise that they have become a staple appliance in many modern kitchens. These versatile devices provide a quick and efficient way to heat water for your favorite beverages, from green tea to pour-over coffee.

We’ll compare and contrast electric kettles with their stovetop counterparts, go through what features are must-haves, and then propose some of the best models now available.

Electric Kettle Features and How to Choose the Right One

Table of Contents

Capacity

Considerations for Individual and Family Use

When selecting the perfect electric kettle, it’s essential to consider how much water you’ll need to heat. For example, a smaller kettle with a 1-liter capacity may suffice if you live alone or have limited counter space.

On the other hand, if you have a large family or frequently entertain guests, you might want to opt for a larger electric kettle that can hold up to 1.7 liters of water.

Space-saving Options

If your kitchen counter is on the smaller side, consider choosing an electric kettle with a sleek design that won’t take up too much space. Some models even have a convenient cord storage feature, making it easy to tuck away when not in use.

Material

Stainless Steel vs. Glass vs. Plastic

Electric kettles come in various materials, including stainless steel, glass, and plastic. Stainless steel kettles are known for their durability and resistance to rust, while glass kettles provide an elegant aesthetic and allow you to see the water level inside.

However, glass kettles may be more prone to breaking if accidentally dropped. Plastic kettles are generally more affordable but may not be as durable as their stainless steel or glass counterparts.

Pros and Cons of Each Material

Stainless steel: Durable, rust-resistant, and long-lasting, but may retain heat and become hot to the touch.
Glass: Elegant and visually appealing, allows you to see the water level, but may be prone to breaking.
Plastic: Affordable and lightweight but may not be as durable or long-lasting as other materials.

Temperature Control

Importance of Precise Temperature Settings for Various Beverages

Different beverages require different water temperatures for optimal flavor extraction. For example, green tea is best brewed at lower temperatures (around 175°F), while black tea and pour-over coffee require hotter water (around 200°F).

With a variable-temperature electric kettle, you can achieve precise temperature control for the perfect cup of tea or coffee every time.

Popular Temperature Settings and Their Uses

160°F (71°C): Ideal for delicate white tea.
175°F (79°C): Perfect for green tea.
185°F (85°C): Suitable for oolong tea.
200°F (93°C): Recommended for black tea and pour-over coffee.
212°F (100°C): Boiling point, ideal for herbal tea and hot chocolate.

Speed and Energy Efficiency

Comparison of Boiling Times

Electric kettles tend to heat water more quickly than traditional stovetop kettles. Most electric kettles can bring water to a rolling boil in just a few minutes, while stovetop kettles may take twice as long.

This speed and efficiency make electric kettles a convenient choice for busy mornings or when you need hot water on the go.

Energy-saving Features

Many electric kettles have energy-saving features, such as automatic shut-off and boil-dry protection. These features help conserve energy by turning off the heating element when the water has reached the desired temperature or when the kettle is empty. This saves energy and adds an extra layer of safety to your kitchen.

Safety Features

Automatic Shut-off and Boil Dry Protection

Automatic shut-off is a critical safety feature that prevents the kettle from overheating and potentially causing damage. Boil dry protection ensures that the heating element will not activate if there is insufficient water in the kettle, protecting the appliance and your home from potential hazards.

Cool-touch Handles and Exterior

Some electric kettles come with cool-touch handles and exteriors, which stay cool to the touch even when the water inside is boiling. This feature is handy for households with children or for those who may accidentally bump the kettle while it’s in use.

Additional Features

Keep Warm Setting

Avid tea drinkers will appreciate the convenience of a keep-warm setting, which maintains the water at the desired temperature for an extended period. This feature allows you to enjoy multiple cups of tea without reheating the water each time.

Gooseneck Spout Design for Precise Pouring

If you’re a fan of pour-over coffee or need precise control when pouring hot water, consider investing in a gooseneck electric kettle. The long, slender spout provides better control over the flow rate and direction of the water, ensuring a more consistent and even extraction for your coffee or tea.

Top Electric Kettle Recommendations

Best Overall Electric Kettle: Cuisinart PerfecTemp Cordless Electric Kettle

Cuisinart 1.7-Liter Stainless Steel Cordless Electric Kettle with 6 Preset Temperatures

1500 watts for fast heat-up and 1.7-liter capacity
6 preset heat settings (160°F for delicate teas, 175°F for green tea, 185°F for white tea, 190°F for oolong tea, 200°F for French press coffee, and Boil for black tea or instant foods)
One-touch controls with blue LED indicators, 30-minute Keep Warm option, and 2-minute memory feature
360° swivel power base for cordless convenience, concealed heating element, and boil-dry protection with auto shutoff

Key Features: Six temperature settings, keep-warm function, auto shut-off, and boil-dry protection.
Capacity: 1.7 liters
Material: Stainless steel

Best Budget Electric Kettle: Mueller Ultra Kettle

Sale

Mueller Living Electric Kettle, Electric Tea Kettle for Boiling Water, 1500W SpeedBoil Teach Automatic Shutoff, 1.8L Cordless with LED Light, Borosilicate Glass Tea Kettle Pot Water Heater, BPA Free

Fast Boiling – Quickly heat hot water with our 1.8 L electric kettle and its SpeedBoil technology. The bright blue LED light turns off when it’s ready. Electric kettles for boiling water make a unique gift.
Enjoy Hot Water – Attractive Borosilicate glass kettle fresh, tasty water to make tea, oatmeal, hot chocolate, instant soup, and coffee. Electric tea kettle designed for home or kitchen.
Auto Shut-Off – Unlike some kitchen appliances, our electric tea kettle turns off automatically when the water boils to reduce power usage.
Easy Maintenance – A removable, washable filter allows you to keep the water clean. Serve up to 7 cups – Perfect large capacity tea kettle for meetings or a large family.
Cordless Pouring – The power cord is attached to the base not the kettle! Pour our cordless tea kettle without being tethered to the wall. Features a heat-resistant, anti-slip grip handle.

Key Features: Rapid boil technology, blue LED indicator light, automatic shut-off, and boil dry protection.
Capacity: 1.8 liters
Material: Borosilicate glass and stainless steel

Best Variable Temperature Electric Kettle: OXO Brew Adjustable Temperature Kettle