Make a cuppa from your the comfort of your bed with the best smart kettles

"Alexa, turn on the kettle!"

Best smart kettles for temperature control

by Bryony Firth-Bernard |
Updated on

Finding the best kettle for your kitchen is essential for many brew-loving Brits. After all, waking up and making a cuppa is part of many people’s morning rituals. But imagine if you could boil your kettle without having to leave the warm, cosiness of your bed in the morning. Well, with the best smart kettle, you can. Ok, so you’ll still have to make sure there’s water in the kettle beforehand but, apart from that, a smart kettle can be controlled at the touch of a button from your phone. There are even some that can be controlled by your voice via your Amazon Alexa device.

Smart kettles are exactly the same as your standard quiet kettle, the main difference is they can be set to various temperatures and controlled via an app on your phone. This means you can boil your kettle at the touch of a button, pre-set temperatures and boil times. Some have a ‘keep warm’ function too, so you can keep your water at a specific temperature for a period of time. While some will even tell you how much water is left in your kettle.

Best smart kettles at a glance:

Best for Alexa devices: Swan Alexa Smart Kettle — Buy on Amazon UK
Best for easy temperature controls: Weekett Smart Kettle — Buy on Amazon UK
Best for serious brewers: Sage Smart Kettle – Buy now on Amazon UK

Kettles typically use more electricity than many other small kitchen appliances. For instance, a slow cooker generally has a wattage of around 200-300W, whereas a kettle is more like 2,000-3,000W. However, newer kettles are energy-efficient gadgets due to features such as precise temperature controls. This is particularly useful because tea and coffee are often best enjoyed at temperatures below boiling point. Therefore, if you're considering upgrading your kettle, investing in a smart appliance with temperature settings can help save on energy bills by heating water only to the desired temperature rather than boiling it each time.

There are a few — such as the Swan Alexa Smart Kettle that we’ve listed below — that can be controlled by your voice. Yes, this does mean if you say ‘Alexa, turn on the kettle’, it will do it.

Best smart kettles

Best smart kettle for Alexa devices

Tested

This sleek-looking kettle from Swan is the first Alexa smart kettle. You can set it to work simply by using your voice, even from another room. Create personalised commands and routines unique to you such as turning the kettle on, changing the temperature of the water or asking Alexa to keep the water warm. It makes 8-10 cups and you can select the temperature between 60°C, 85°C, 90°C or 100°C.

Our review: “As a big brew lover, and someone that works from home, I was very excited to test this kettle out. It was very easy to set up following the booklet that has simple and straightforward instructions. But do make sure you take the time to read this. At the start, I wasn’t sure why Alexa kept being so disobedient and not turning on my kettle when asked to, but this is because I hadn’t set up my voice commands in the Alexa app. Once I had done this, Alexa would boil the kettle whenever I asked. Controlling the kettle from my phone was great, especially on those lazy Sundays when I just wanted a few extra minutes in bed. The ‘keep warm’ function is brilliant too, as I’m prone to flicking the kettle on and then getting distracted by another task.

"I was also amazed by the double-wall technology, which stops the exterior from getting hot — no more kettle burns for Bryony. The only thing I would say is this kettle isn’t the quietest at all, but if you’re looking for a smart kettle that’s sleek and stylish, and very easy to use, it’s definitely worth considering.”

Pros

  • Stylish, sleek design
  • You don't have to move – ask Alexa to boil, change temperature or keep warm
  • ‘Keep warm’ function
  • Variable temperature options
  • Double walled so you can't accidently burn yourself by touching the exterior

Cons

  • Lower wattage than most kettles so it takes a bit longer to boil
Water capacity:1.5L
Colour options available:Black
Dry-boil protection:Yes

Best for temperature controls

As well as voice control, temperature variations between 40°C and 100°C and being able to control it from your phone, this kettle has some added bonuses.

It has a water gauge on each side of the kettle, making it usable for both left and right-handed users. The platform it sits on also has different temperature options, so if you ever do have a day when the Wi-Fi is down, you can still easily select the water temperature you’d like it to boil too. There’s also a built-in baby bottle programme for new parents, which boils the water to 100°C and then cools it to 70°C, where it will stay at this temperature for an hour. You’ve also got the removable limescale filter and dry-boil protection too.

A customer commented that they thought its best feature was that it can be remotely operated via an app or a smart speaker. Connecting it to Wi-Fi was relatively easy and it stays connected. You can set automatic timers via the app, an evolution of the Teasmade! However, the customer felt the app was lacking a water level indicator; you have to physically go to the kettle to see if it's filled.

Also, it has a longer keep warm functions than other kettles, maintaining water temperature for up to an hour.

Pros

  • Water gauge on both sides — good for left and right-handed people
  • Can control via your voice and app
  • Customers say it's reasonably quiet and the spout pours well
  • Baby bottle programme
  • Variable temperature options

Cons

  • Some customers had issues with the Wi-Fi connection
Water capacity:1.7L
Colour options:Stainless steel
Dry-boil protection:Yes

Other kettle options...

If you're not completely ready to jump straight to a smart kettle, then you can dip your toe in the water with these other options, which have temperature selections.

Best for serious brewers

Tested

Yours/Sage

This kettle from Sage could almost be mistaken for the Weekett kettle. It's ideal for tea and coffee connoisseurs as there are five different temperature options on the base — for black, green, white or Oolong teas and French press coffee — to create the ideal brewing conditions. It also has a 20-minute keep warm button, so there's no rush for making your perfect brew.

Our tester said that whilst this is not a 'smart' kettle in the app-controlled sense, it is a premium appliance that has one-touch controls to heat water to the ideal temperature for a range of teas and coffee. In addition, there is a keep warm function which makes it more energy efficient than having to reboil.

Aesthetically, our tester loved the brushed stainless steel and chunkiness of this Sage kettle without being too heavy. The button controls were easy to use and the hinged lid was a doddle to open and close.

Be aware that there's a glass window in the lid that retains some condensation between use, which is a minor con. But, otherwise this is a flawless premium kettle for tea or coffee connoisseurs.

Pros

  • Temperature selection via the base — ideal for tea and coffee connoisseurs
  • Keep warm button so less reboiling
  • Robust stainless steel, yet reasonably lightweight
  • Large size capacity is ideal for when friends come round for a cuppa

Cons

  • Condensation in the glass window in the lid
Water capacity:1.7L
Colour options:stainless steel
Dry-boil protection:Yes

Best for quiet boiling

It may be the most basic kettle in our roundup, but this one from Russell Hobbs still has some great features. Although there's no app or voice control, you can select the temperature you'd like your water to boil at by using the buttons on the handle and checking via the small digital screen. Again, this makes it a great choice for serious brewers and new parents who need to prepare bottles.

The best feature has to be the quiet boil technology, as it's 75 per cent quieter than a regular kettle. It's got a large water capacity too and fast boil technology, so you'll be able to make plenty of cups in no time at all.

Customers enjoy being able to monitor the water temperature. Brewing coffee with water at 95°C avoids scorching the grounds. Also, customers say water pours very well from the spout. It's quiet and fast boiling too. However, some customers felt it was needlessly complex, but this depends on whether you enjoy brewing teas and coffees that require different temperatures.

Pros

  • Quiet and fast boiling
  • Can manually select water temperature between 60°C and 100°C
  • Monitor the temperature via the built-in thermometer
  • Customers say it pours well

Cons

  • A customer comments that the lid is a two-handed job to open
Water capacity:1.7L
Colour options:Stainless steel
Dry-boil protection:Yes

Best for ease of use

Similar to the Sage Smart Kettle, this one from Bosch allows you to select your water temperature at either 70°C, 80°C, 90°C and 100°C, via the buttons on its base. It's pretty modern-looking, has dry-boil protection, a limescale filter, concealed heating and a keep warm button, which lasts 30 minutes. We also really like that there's extra storage in the base of the kettle for its cord, so you have the freedom to completely adjust its length.

Customers say they love the design of this kettle and it's up to the quality one would expect from Bosch. It has a clear water level indicator, easy open lid and the handle is comfortable to grip. The temperature controls are button-based and simple to use. The kettle is made of stainless steel that has double-wall insulation to keep water hotter for longer.

A customer liked that it beeps when it boils as this alerted them if they were somewhere other than the kitchen.

Pros

  • Temperature selection via the base — ideal for tea and coffee connoisseurs
  • Keep warm button
  • 3,000W power, so it boils fast
  • Removable limescale filter keeps water free from impurities
  • Customers love its sleek design and quality build

Cons

  • Some customers dislike the beep noise when it turns on and when it boils
Water capacity:1.5L
Colour options:White or black
Dry-boil protection:Yes

Best for tea lovers

Now, you may have seen (or even have yourself) those little teapots which have tea baskets inside for your tea leaves, but this kettle from Sage takes tea brewing to a whole new level. Simply add your tea leaves to the steel basket, select your temperature on the base, and then how long you would like it to brew for and, voilà, you have your favourite tea boiled to perfection and brewed just to your liking. The steel basket is also easy to remove and is safe to be popped in the dishwasher, just in case you want to use the kettle to boil water for other hot drinks.

A customer praised the kettle's design, feel and ease of use. It boils fast or heats to a desired temperature. Just bear in mind that this glass kettle will show limescale and it's a bit on the heavy side.

Pros

  • Temperature and brew time selection
  • Keep warm function so less reboiling
  • Can also be used as a normal kettle
  • Customers praise that it's easy to clean, with dishwasher-safe parts
  • Expertly brews a variety of teas without stewing it

Cons

  • Some customers dislike that staining, marks and limescale can be very conspicuous because the kettle is glass
Water capacity:1.5L
Colour options:Stainless steel
Dry-boil protection:Yes

Best smart kettle for temperature display

The TEFAL Smart N Light Jug Kettle is a sleek black appliance with an exterior that stays cool to touch.
Customers say the ability to boil water to a range of temperatures is useful to them for preparing baby milk formula. Also, it boils fast and the the digital display clearly shows the water temperature. The keep warm function makes it an efficient appliance that saves on reboiling water.

However, reviews suggest that this is not an ideal kettle for elderly people as it has a problematic lid and is quite heavy.

Pros

  • Heat water to a range of temperatures
  • Clear digital display shows water temperature
  • Customers found the digital controls easy to use
  • Fast boiling and efficient
  • Prep baby formula with ease and to a precise temperature

Cons

  • Customers comment that it doesn't have a water level indicator and it's a heavy kettle
Water capacity:1.5L
Colour options available:Black
Dry-boil protection:Yes

Best smart kettle for temperature control

This is another kettle that maximises the flavour of tea, coffee and cocoa by brewing your favourite drink at the optimum temperature. Customers enjoy using this kettle as it feels well-made yet lightweight. Also, they love the features, including setting the temperature, keep warm and rapid boiling.

Some customers were attracted to this product by the positive experience they've had with their Ninja air fryer. Most were delighted with their purchase and say they can feel the quality. However, one or two comments suggest that some had technical errors and had to consult Ninja's customer service.

Pros

  • Manually increase or decrease the temperature in 5°C increments or use the pre-sets
  • Quality build and a pleasure to use as it's reasonably lightweight
  • Rapid boil in under 50 seconds for a quick cuppa

Cons

  • Some customers commented they had error messages displaying on their kettle
Water capacity:1.7L
Colour options available:Matte black
Dry-boil protection:Not specified

Ask the expert

Sam Beckett is the owner and Operational Director at Beckett's Plumbing & Heating. With a deep understanding of innovative technologies and their applications across domestic settings, Sam is well-equipped to highlight the convenience, energy efficiency and safety features that smart kettles have to offer.

"A smart kettle is a Wi-Fi-enabled kitchen appliance that allows users to control and monitor the brewing process through a smartphone app or voice command with a smart speaker. These kettles often come equipped with variable temperature settings, customisable brewing schedules and notifications for when the water reaches your desired temperature.

"Connecting a smart kettle to your home network is a simple process that typically involves downloading the manufacturer's app and following the on-screen instructions to pair the kettle with your Wi-Fi network. These models allow you to set up schedules and establish your individual user preferences. Some smart kettles also support integration with popular smart speakers like Amazon Alexa or Google Home for hands-free control.

"Smart kettles are designed with energy efficiency in mind, allowing users to heat up the minimal amount of water needed for a specific task. This usually results in lower energy consumption compared to traditional kettles. Pre-set temperature settings and remote operation features optimise your energy usage by ensuring water is heated quickly and efficiently.

"The benefits of using a smart kettle extend beyond convenience to include time-saving features and precise temperature control for different types of tea and coffee, allowing you to brew perfect beverages at the touch of a button. Smart kettles also offer a more sleek and modern design that complements the aesthetic appeal of contemporary kitchen interiors."

FAQs

How do they work?

You will need a wifi connection to use this type of kettle. This is so you can connect it to your phone and then be able to control it with this.

Once you have your smart kettle you’ll need to follow the instructions, which will usually prompt you to download the compatible app. Apart from then needing to fill the kettle up yourself, you will then be able to carry out different tasks via the app, which may include:

• Switching your kettle on/off
• Checking the water levels inside
• Setting different temperatures
• Turning on a ‘keep warm’ setting
• Adding different voice commands for your kettle to recognise

You can use a smart kettle exactly the same as your regular kettle too. Plus, multiple people can download the app, so that they can also control the kettle on their phones.

Yours Swan Alexa kettle
©Yours.co.uk

What are the benefits of a smart kettle?

These types of kettles are great for people who have mobility issues. Rather than having to constantly get up and down and walk to the kitchen to turn the kettle on, they can do this from their phone or via voice control. New parents benefit from them too, as when they make up a formula bottle they need to boil the water to 100°C and then let it cool to 70°C. A smart kettle can do both and keep the temperature at 70°C. This can save a lot of time and stress.

Smart home tech is something a lot of appliance brands now offer, so if you’re someone who loves a bit of tech, a smart kettle could be a great investment.

How do I clean my smart kettle?

You descale your kettle exactly the same way, whether it be a smart kettle or a normal kettle. Some smart kettles, such as the Alexa Swan, will tell you when your kettle needs descaling, which is particularly useful if you live in a hard water area and need a kettle to reduce limescale.

This article contains expert commentary from Sam Beckett. Gas safe engineer and expert in plumbing and appliances, Sam Beckett is a seasoned professional in the field of plumbing and heating with a career spanning several years. Under his leadership as the Owner and Operational Director of Beckett's Plumbing & Heating, the company has flourished, delivering exceptional plumbing and heating solutions to a diverse clientele.

Bryony Firth-Bernard is a product writer for Yours. On the weekend she loves whipping up new recipes in the kitchen and spending time with her friends and family.

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