How to Choose the Right Electric Kettle

Your Guide to buying the best Electric kettle

Overview

This electric kettle buying guide provides an overview of the features and considerations to keep in mind when shopping for an electric kettle. It provides an overview of types of electric kettles, the materials they are made from, and the safety features available. It also includes tips for selecting the right electric kettle for your needs. Finally, it offers advice on how to maintain your electric kettle for optimal performance.

Key features

  • Capacity: Kettles come in different sizes and capacities, so it is important to consider the amount of liquid that you would need each time.
  • Material: Electric kettles are usually made of plastic, stainless steel, ceramic or glass. Consider the material that best suits your needs.
  • Temperature Settings: Some electric kettles have adjustable temperature settings, allowing you to choose the exact temperature you need for your tea or other beverages.
  • Safety Features: Look for electric kettles with safety features such as automatic shut-off and boil-dry protection.
  • Ease of Use: Consider how easy it is to operate the kettle. Look for features such as an easy-to-read display, one-touch button, and detachable cord.
  • Cost: Electric kettles vary in price depending on the features and quality. Consider how much you are willing to spend on an electric kettle.
  • Warranty: Check the warranty coverage of the electric kettle before buying, so that you are protected in case of any defects.

See the most popular Electric kettle on Amazon

Important considerations

Pros

  • Convenience: Electric kettles heat water quickly and easily, so you don't have to wait for a pot to boil on the stove or wait for a microwave to heat your water.
  • Safety: An electric kettle is designed with an automatic shut-off feature, so the water will turn off when it reaches the desired temperature. This prevents the water from boiling dry or getting too hot.
  • Energy Efficiency: Using an electric kettle is far more energy efficient than using a stovetop or microwave to heat water. Electric kettles use less electricity to heat the same amount of water.
  • Versatility: An electric kettle can be used to heat water for a variety of uses, such as making tea, coffee, hot chocolate, oatmeal, and more.
  • Design: Electric kettles come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and colors to match any kitchen décor.

Cons

  • Price: Electric kettles can be expensive compared to standard stovetop kettles, depending on the features and brand.
  • Size: Electric kettles tend to be much larger than stovetop kettles and may not fit on kitchen countertops or in cupboards.
  • Safety: Electric kettles can be dangerous if not properly used and can cause electrical shocks.
  • Maintenance: Electric kettles must be regularly descaled and cleaned to ensure their safety and efficiency.
  • Energy Efficiency: Electric kettles can be energy inefficient if not properly used, resulting in higher electricity bills.

Best alternatives

  1. Slow Cookers – A slow cooker is a great alternative to an electric kettle as it allows people to cook meals such as soups, stews, and more without having to monitor the food constantly.
  2. Rice Cookers – Rice cookers are a great substitute for electric kettles as they can quickly cook a variety of grains, such as rice, quinoa, and more, and can also be used to steam vegetables.
  3. Pressure Cookers – Pressure cookers are an excellent alternative to electric kettles as they can rapidly cook various types of food, such as meats, vegetables, beans, and more.

Related tools, supplies, and accessories

  • <Measuring cup> - For measuring the right amount of water for the kettle.
  • <Spout filter> - For filtering any debris out of the water before it enters the kettle.
  • <Temperature gauge> - For adjusting the temperature of the water.
  • <Power cord> - For powering the kettle.
  • <Kettle lid> - For covering the kettle when not in use.
  • <Insulated handle> - For providing a safe and comfortable grip when handling the kettle.
  • <Timer> - For adjusting the time to turn the kettle off.
  • <Safety switch> - For automatically shutting off the kettle when it is empty or if it reaches maximum temperature.

Common questions

  1. What features should I look for in an electric kettle?
    Look for an electric kettle that offers features such as a digital display, temperature setting, variable temperature, an auto shut-off feature, a cordless design, and a timer.
  2. What are the safety considerations?
    Look for an electric kettle that has an automatic shut-off feature for safety, as well as a heat-resistant handle and no-drip spout. Additionally, it's important to make sure the kettle has an insulated power cord to prevent electric shock.
  3. What type of material is best for an electric kettle?
    Look for an electric kettle that is made of stainless steel or BPA-free plastic. Stainless steel is more durable and will last longer, but BPA-free plastic is lighter and less expensive.
  4. What size electric kettle should I buy?
    The size of electric kettle you should buy depends on how much water you want to boil at one time. If you are just boiling for one person, a small 1-liter kettle should do the trick. If you are boiling for a family, then a larger 2-liter kettle may be more suitable.
  5. Should I buy a corded or cordless electric kettle?
    This is a matter of personal preference. A corded electric kettle will have a more secure connection to the power source and will be less likely to break, but a cordless electric kettle will be more convenient to use as it eliminates the need for a power cord.
  6. What other accessories should I consider when purchasing an electric kettle?
    Consider purchasing an electric kettle with a tea infuser or a tea strainer, if you plan on using the kettle to make tea. Additionally, an electric kettle with a removable base is convenient for using with multiple outlets and for storage.

Trivia

An interesting fact about electric kettles is that many astronauts have taken them into space! In fact, the first electric kettle ever used in space was the Russell Hobbs Travel Kettle, taken along with astronaut Helen Sharman during a mission to the Soviet space station Mir in 1991. Astronauts enjoy using kettles to make their own hot tea and coffee in space, as it allows them to relax and enjoy the traditional hot beverages during their stay in space. Source

Disclaimer: This buying guide was not created by humans, and it is possible that some of it's content is inaccurate or incomplete. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this buying guide. Additionally, the images on this page were generated by AI and may not accurately represent the product that is being discussed. We have tried to convey useful information, but it is our subjective opinion and should not be taken as complete or factual.