Having the best kettle in your home - especially the best electric kettle - can make all the difference when you need hot water quickly for your morning coffee, tea or even cooking. Electric kettles have evolved far beyond their basic functions and now offer a range of features to enhance your boiling experience.
An electric kettle is designed for heating water quickly and efficiently using electricity. It consists of a container (usually made of stainless steel, glass, or plastic) with an integrated heating element at the base. Electric kettles are known for their speed and convenience and are commonly used for tasks such as making tea, coffee, instant soups, and noodles, as well as for various cooking and baking needs that require hot water. Electric kettles come in various sizes, designs, and price ranges, making them a versatile addition to any kitchen.
Best electric kettles at a glance:
• Best glass electric kettle: Russell Hobbs 20760-10 Brita Purity Glass Kettle - View now on Amazon UK
• Best smart electric kettle: Smart iKettle 3 by Smarter - View now on Amazon UK
• Best budget electric kettle: Russell Hobbs 26051 Cordless Electric Kettle - View now on Amazon UK
In this guide, we'll explore the top electric kettles on the market, each carefully selected for its performance, safety features, design aesthetics, and overall value. Whether you're a tea enthusiast, a coffee connoisseur, or simply someone who appreciates the convenience of hot water on demand, we're here to help you discover the best electric kettle to elevate your daily routine.
The best electric kettles
Best glass kettle
Description
Containing a built-in BRITA water filter system that reduces limescale and chlorine plus
Pros
- It contains a Brita Maxtra+ Filter Cartridge
- Blue illumination on boil
- 3kW of power
- 360° base
Cons
- Not as big as some kettles
Best smart electric kettle
Description
Pros
- Large water capacity
- Can control via your voice and app
- ‘Keep warm’ function
- Variable temperature options
- Stylish design and other colours are available
Cons
- Doesn’t have double-wall technology, so the exterior will get hot
Best budget electric kettle
Description
For a purse-friendly option, you can't go wrong with this Russell Hobbs electric kettle. It has an
Pros
- No splash when pouring
- Boils quickly
- Lightweight
Cons
- Water level viewing window is under the handle
Best stainless steel kettle
www.johnlewis.com
Description
With a non-drip spout, durable hinged lid and anti-wobble feet, this stainless steel kettle is
Pros
- Beautiful design and BPA-free
- Available in three different stain steel finishes
- Quiet Mark stamp of approval
Cons
- Some may prefer something more basic
Best one-cup kettle
Description
This automatic one-cup dispenser{href='https://www.yours.co.uk/life/home/best-one-cup-kettle/'
Pros
- Quick and efficient boil
- Lightweight design
- Hands-free water dispenser
Cons
- Water occasionally weeps from the lid when filled
Best eco electric kettle
Description
Created with 100 Percent plant-based plastics to reduce its CO₂ footprint by 25 Percent, this
Pros
- Stylish design
- Sustainably made
- Easy to read water level and cup indicator
- Automatic switch-off function
- Good size
Cons
- Not available in a range of colour options
Best quiet electric kettle
Description
Taking only 45 seconds to boil one cup, we love the Quiet boil technology of this kettle, which
Pros
- Can boil one cup in 45 seconds
- Designed to boil quietly
- Stainless steel is easy to clean
Cons
- Stainless steel will get very hot to touch
Best pyramid electric kettle
Description
The elegant rose gold accents of this electric kettle will add a splash style to your kitchen plus
Pros
- Quick boil
- Stylish look
- Available in a few colours
Cons
- Has a short spout
Best retro electric kettle
Description
Inspired by fancy kettles of the past, this electric kettle has a traditional stove top design and
Pros
- Removable, washable anti-scale filter
- Retro design
- BPA free
Cons
- Lid is not hinged
Best BPA-free electric kettle
Description
With automatic shut-off after boiling and once lifted, this kettle from COSORI will make a great
Pros
- BPA-free
- Automatic shut-off and boil-dry protection
- Blue LED light
Cons
- Slightly noisy
How to choose an electric kettle
Capacity: Think about how much water you typically need to boil. Electric kettles come in various sizes, from small (1-2 cups) to large (1.7-2.5 litres). Choose a capacity that suits your usage patterns.
Material: Electric kettles are typically made of stainless steel, glass, or plastic. Stainless steel is durable and easy to clean. Glass allows you to see the water level but may be more fragile. Plastic kettles are lightweight but may not be as durable.
Boil time: Check the wattage of the kettle. Higher wattage models will generally heat water faster. If speed is important to you, opt for a kettle with higher wattage.
Noise level: Some electric kettles can be noisy while boiling. If noise is a concern, look for models that are known for being quieter.
Price and budget: Set a budget for your electric kettle and find one that meets your needs within that price range. Electric kettles come in a wide range of prices, so there's likely one to fit your budget.
Electric kettle features to consider
Handle and spout design: Check the handle design for comfort and ease of pouring. An ergonomic, heat-resistant handle is a plus. Additionally, a well-designed spout can prevent spills and ensure precise pouring.
Temperature control: Some electric kettles offer variable temperature settings, which are useful for brewing different types of tea or coffee that require specific water temperatures.
Water level indicator: Look for a kettle with clear and easy-to-read water level markings, so you can fill it accurately without overfilling.
Safety features: Ensure the kettle has safety features like an automatic shut-off when the water reaches boiling temperature. Some models also have a lid-locking mechanism to prevent accidental spills.
Boil-dry protection: Ensure the kettle has a boil-dry protection feature, which automatically turns off the kettle when it's empty or when there's not enough water to boil. This safety feature prevents damage to the kettle.
Cord length and storage: Consider the length of the power cord and whether it has a cord storage feature. A retractable cord or a designated cord storage area can help keep your countertop neat and tidy.
Easy to clean: Look for kettles with removable and washable scale filters to make cleaning and maintenance easier.
Features & Reviews Editor Emily Gilbert has been a journalist since 2016 and has worked across a variety of specialist and lifestyle brands both in print and online. Specialising in travel content and product reviews, Emily is the first to know about all the exciting new releases, her favourite being gadgets for the home.
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