Best stove top kettle for all cooker types

Add a rustic touch to your kitchen with these stove top kettles.

stove top kettle

by Ellen Kinsey |
Updated on

If you are looking to honour tradition and bring simplicity home, it’s time to discover the best stove top kettle for your kitchen. We’re so dependent on electric appliances, occasionally, it can be nice to do things the old way. When it comes to making tea or coffee – it's not just about boiling water. It's the ritual of taking some valuable me-time. There's something inherently soothing about the whistle of a stove top kettle. The best kettle can make a world of difference to your brewing experience. In this guide, we list the best stove top kettles for gas, electric, induction stoves, and even open flame for a genuinely rustic touch.

There are benefits to owning a stove top kettle. For starters, they offer a charming, traditional feel that adds a touch of nostalgia to your kitchen. But it's not just about aesthetics – stove top kettles are known for their durability and longevity – often outlasting their electric counterparts. Most stove top kettles are made of stainless steel, but some are solid copper or cast iron.

Best stove top kettle at a glance

• Best overall:  Whistling Kettle 3.4 L Stainless Steel – view on Amazon UK
• Best value: SUSTEAS Stove Top Whistling Tea Kettle – view on Amazon UK
• Best design: Le Creuset Zen Stove-Top Kettle – view on Amazon UK

There are many types of kettles to choose from. The best glass kettles add a sleek and contemporary touch to your kitchen, allowing you to monitor the water level and watch it boil. Then, there are smart kettles, equipped with features like temperature control and keep-warm functions, perfect for those who love a bit of tech in their kitchen. But if you want to return to basics, stove top kettles may be the one for you.

Lastly, let's not forget the sustainability angle. Unlike electric kettles, stove top kettles don't contribute to your electricity bill and have a lower carbon footprint. Plus, their longevity means less waste in the long run. So, if you're looking for an eco-friendly choice, a stove top kettle is the best option. Let's get into the best stove top round-up for gas, electric and induction cooktops.

Best stove top kettle

Best stove top kettle for large capacity

Coming in multiple colours, this Whistling Kettle from King Hoff has a large capacity of three litres. It is a high-quality stainless steel kettle that features an easy grip design, is ergonomically constructed and has a heat-resistant handle with a push-button operated spout. Suitable for all types of hobs, this is an affordable and versatile choice.

Customer review: "Very well made kettle, the handle doesn't get hot."

Pros

  • Large capacity
  • Easy open
  • Whistling button
  • Modern design

Cons

  • Quite tall and so you have to tip it quite a long way to get the water out

Best stove top kettle for design

You can't really top a Le Creuset in your kitchen. This whistling kettle has a bold and colourful design and makes a statement. This stove top kettle, made from enamel-coated carbon steel, is a testament to Le Creuset's commitment to durability and design. Its broad base allows for rapid boiling. The kettle's whistle flips back for effortless pouring, and the robust, heat-resistant handle ensures safe handling. If you are looking for a real talking point in the kitchen – this is the one.

Customer review: "Small capacity so great for one or two cups of coffee. Small capacity means you don’t overfill and heat too much water. Quick to boil, very loud whistle. Nice design and good quality comfortable handle."

Pros

  • Made by the renowned Le Creuset brand
  • Crafted from enamel-covered carbon steel
  • Compatible with all heat sources
  • Features a flip-back whistle for easy pouring

Cons

  • Requires hand washing to prevent limescale build-up

Best stove top kettle for unique design

Alternative retailers
Bloomingdale's$255.00View offer
Wayfair$265.00View offer

The Alessi Tea Rex kettle's contemporary design and polished stainless steel build makes it a sleek showstopper. The kettle's standout feature is its copper dragon whistle, a quirky touch that signals when your water is ready. Its magnetic base ensures a secure hold on your induction hob, and the large resin handle provides a firm, safe grip. While it's on the high-end side, the unique design and functionality make it a stylish kettle.

Customer review: "Looks so great on hob a very cool looking kettle, have to get used to the dragon device of pulling out when pouring as worried at first might break, but it's very well designed, and everyone comments on it."

Pros

  • Unique design featuring a copper dragon whistle
  • Made from polished stainless steel
  • Features a magnetic base for a sturdy hold on induction hobs

Cons

  • Some may not like the dragon embellishment

Best stove top kettle for coffee lovers

The Coffee Gator Pour Over Kettle is a minimalist dream designed with the coffee connoisseur in mind. Its built-in thermometer ensures optimal brewing temperature, preventing the burning of your precious coffee beans. The kettle's gooseneck spout guarantees a smooth, even pour for a perfect brew every time. Its unique triple-layer base, compatible with all heat sources, including campfires, makes it a versatile choice. While its design may be simple, its performance is anything but, making it a fantastic value for money.

Customer review: "This works on our induction hob, and boils far quicker than an electric kettle. It has a temperature gauge on the lid so we can get it to the precise temperature for making proper large leaf teas. The spout pours really beautifully and it is a joy to use. We descale the kettle with the juice of a fresh lemon which leaves it looking new again. Much better than the old electric kettle we used before."

Pros

  • Built-in thermometer
  • Gooseneck spout for controlled flow
  • Triple-layer base for all stovetops

Cons

  • Smaller capacity than others

Best stove top kettle for fire and gas

REDCAMP Camping Kettle, Compact
Price: $18.99

If you love the feeling of a hot cup of Joe or meal alfresco, you will love this Red Camp Outdoor Camping Kettle. The perfect companion for those outdoor adventures – weighing just 150g, this aluminium kettle is light enough to carry on your hikes or even to the beach. It boasts a threaded base design for even heat distribution, ensuring faster boiling times over a gas flame. The spout is cleverly designed for easy, drip-free pouring. Plus, with the heat-resistant silicone handles, it prioritises your safety. At a budget-friendly price, it's a must-have for any outdoor enthusiast.

Customer review: " I don't think there's anything I can do with a pot that I can't do with this kettle. I can make food in it and eat out of it just fine – perfect for camping. Anyone using a camping pot needs to seriously consider this kettle."

Pros

  • Light and portable for outdoor cooking
  • Even-heating base
  • Non-drip spout
  • Heat-resistant silicone handle

Cons

  • No whistle

Best stove top kettle for copper finish

With a lovely copper finish – this KitchenCraft Le'Xpress Induction Safe Whistling Stovetop Kettle is a lovely compact kettle for your stove top. With a sleek design and 1.3-litre capacity, it is a practical choice for smaller households. Crafted from stainless steel, it means it ticks the boxes for durability, quick heating and easy cleaning. It's compatible with all heat sources, making it a versatile addition to your kitchen. If you are looking for an excellent value vintage-style kettle, this is the one for you.

Customer review: "It‘s extremely lightweight and my favourite kettle. I've had this kettle for a few months now, and so far so good. The handle is still secure too."

Pros

  • Compact design with a 1.3-litre capacity
  • Compatible with all heat sources
  • 10-year guarantee

Cons

  • The handle is not fully insulated, so a touch of caution is needed when handling it.
  • Whistling is not too loud

Best stove top kettle for value

Whether you are looking for a bold red design or a subtle black, this whistling kettle from SUSTEAS is a great addition to your brewing ritual. Coming with an ergonomically designed handle that has push-button technology makes pouring a breeze. Plus, the combination of high-quality nylon material and stainless steel effectively insulates and avoids being burned. This stainless steel kettle has a matte textured finish, and part of the structure is decorated with a metal copper-plated design, which adds a touch of luxury to the teapot body and creates a retro feel. 

Customer review: "Works really well. Looks good. Feels like a quality product. Happy with my purchase."

Pros

  • Good capacity
  • Two colours
  • Easy to hold

Cons

  • You need to touch the handle to press the release button so need to be cautious as it may be hot

Best stove top kettle for a traditional Japanese design

Although it does not whistle, unlike all the models on this list, this has other perks as it has been modelled on a traditional Japanese design. The Victor Cast Iron Tea Kettle offers a unique tea brewing experience and looks beautiful in the kitchen. Ideal for use on all stove types as well as wood cookers and open fires too – it's perfect for those who enjoy a more traditional experience. Unlike other kettles, it doesn't whistle but instead comes with an infuser, allowing it to double as a teapot. The handle isn't insulated, so an oven mitt or glove is needed for safe handling. If you are looking for a kettle for typical British tea drinking, this might not be the best option – but if it is something authentic you are after, this is a good choice.
Customer review: "Bought to use on wood burning stove, and I have to say it’s one of my best purchases. Surprisingly, the boiled water has a much nicer taste than the water boiled in my electric kettle, which was an added bonus. More than enough water for three large mugs when full. The handle gets warm but not overly hot. It’s not a large kettle, so not too heavy to handle, and the quality is good."

Pros

  • Unique cast iron kettle based on traditional Japanese design
  • Works on wood cookers and open fires
  • Comes with an infuser for use as a teapot

Cons

  • The handle isn't insulated, so an oven mitt or glove is needed for safe handling

Best stove top kettle for sturdiness

ProCook Stovetop Kettle
Price: £49 (was £59)

www.procook.co.uk

The ProCook Stovetop Kettle, with its dome design and stainless steel construction, blends style and functionality. Its handle stays cool to the touch, ensuring safe use. With a two litre capacity, it's perfect for everyday use at home, plus the sturdy and heavy design reduces the risk of accidental knock-offs. While it only comes in a stainless steel finish, its classic design will complement any kitchen décor.

Customer review: "A really solid, well-made kettle with a long guarantee. It looks great and has a large capacity too."

Pros

  • 10-year guarantee
  • Super fast boil time
  • A lever to lift the spout cover when pouring

Cons

  • Could be difficult to pour from when filled as it’s quite heavy

What to consider when buying a stove top kettle

Material: Stove top kettles come in a variety of materials, including stainless steel, copper, enamel, and cast iron. Each material has its own benefits and drawbacks. Stainless steel and copper are known for their excellent heat conductivity, while cast iron offers a more traditional look and can be used on an open flame.

Capacity: It is good to consider how much water you typically need to boil at once. If you often make tea or coffee for several people, you might want a larger kettle. On the other hand, if you're usually brewing for one or two, a smaller kettle may work best for you.

Compatibility: Ensure that the kettle you choose is compatible with your stove type. Most stove top kettles can be used on gas, electric and induction hobs but check out the description to be sure it is a good fit.

FAQs: Best stove top kettle

Why choose a stove top kettle over an electric one?

Stove top kettles are often more durable than electric ones and can last for many years. They also have a lower carbon footprint and can be used during power outages if you have gas stove. Also, if you want to boil the water at the highest temperature possible, a stovetop kettle is an ideal option, as it can boil water to a temperature above its boiling point. If you like the comforting whistling sound of a kettle, that could be another reason to select one – but if it's quietness you're after, be sure to check out our best quiet kettle guide.

Can I use a stove top kettle on any type of stove?

Most stove top kettles can be used on a variety of stoves, but it's always best to check them to be sure.

How do I clean a stove top kettle?

Most stove top kettles can be cleaned with a mixture of vinegar and water to remove any limescale build-up. If left for too long, this limescale can corrode your kettle over time, meaning it won't last you as long. To help you get the most out of your kettle to make it last as long as possible, here is our guide on how to descale a kettle.

Do stove top kettles get limescale?

Any kettle will get limescale build-up eventually, but certain factors, such as how hard your water is, will impact how much build-up you get and how quickly you get it.

Ellen Kinsey is a senior health and wellness product writer for Yours, specialising in natural health and beauty. She lives and breathes all things food, travel and wellness.

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