Electric kettles are affordable, easy to use, and reinforced with a variety of tech capabilities. They provide a faster way to boil water and often feature a shut-off safety functionality to avert overheating. Some advanced level variants also enable users to control the temperature according to their drink of choice.
Since there are a plethora of kettles already available in the market, you have to consider a few factors and features to get your hands on the best appliance. In this guide, you will get everything you need to know about how to choose the best electric kettle.
What Factors Should You Consider When Choosing an Electric Kettle?
Speed
Speed is the key reason why people prefer electric kettles over the stove. Most electric kettles take an average of 3-4 minutes to boil water, while some claim to heat enough water for a mug within 90 seconds. They should at least be faster than a stovetop kettle or a microwave. While choosing one, don’t forget to read the product description and take a look at the customers’ reviews.
Temperature Options
Different types of tea and coffee taste best when they are brewed or heated at different temperatures. For instance, boiling water for black tea is suitable at boiling temperature, but it is not ideal for flavored teas. Similarly, a temperature below boiling is considered the best for coffee. Some low-priced electric kettles do not have temperature control capabilities. So, if this feature is essential for you, being a coffee or tea connoisseur, then make sure the kettle you purchase allows you to select different temperatures.
Capacity
Do you typically make a cup of tea or coffee for yourself or several persons? While most appliances have enough capacity for several mugs, some portable models come with a little capacity. So, you should consider your requirements and choose a kettle that suffices them.
Material
Most electric kettles are made of plastic, stainless steel, glass, or a combination of all of these. Glass and steel tend to have higher quality, while plastic does not get as hot as the other two materials. Besides, kettles made of plastic are lighter and easy to carry while traveling.
However, stainless steel or metal-made kettles are popular because of their durability, while appliances that use glass are preferred by people who favor designs and like to watch water getting boiled.
Exterior Heat
You might have experienced that traditional kettles get so much hot from the outside that you can’t even touch the handle to pour you tea or coffee. Though electric models are not immune to this problem, some prevent external heating better than others.
To not let your hands burn while using an electric kettle, purchase a kettle made of plastic or glass because these materials are better heat absorbers than metal or steel.
Noise
Though electric kettles are not as loud as other kitchen appliances like a mixer and grinder, they still make a little noise while boiling. Some kettles even beep continuously to let your know that the water has boiled, but it can annoy you if you are sensitive to noise and there is no easy way to turn it off. So, try looking for an electric kettle that does not make so much noise that you end up changing it earlier than planned.
Weight
Weight may not be a significant factor to consider if your electric kettle will sit on a surface most of the time. However, if you want to carry it when you travel or think that you won’t be able to lift a full kettle to pour, then invest in a lightweight appliance. Most electric kettles have their weight mentioned in the specifications, so you can compare the weight of different appliances and pick a lighter one that is easier to lift and carry.
Appearance
While electric kettles are engineered to function well, some models are designed to look appealing as well as perform excellently. If aesthetics and design matter to you, then look for a kettle that matches your dinnerware or other appliances of your kitchen.
Price
A basic electric kettle with limited functionalities can cost you around $15, while high-quality variants can range from $50-$100. If you need a kettle just to quickly heat water or make tea and are not concerned about durability, then a low-priced model will suffice your requirements. However, a kettle with high-quality materials, more durability, and variable temperature feature is the best option if you have a good budget and want to use it for years.
What are the Key Features of the Best Electric Kettle?
Auto Shutoff
We often forget to switch off our appliances or do not return to them when needed. The auto-shutoff feature will turn off your electric kettle after some time to prevent boiling dry or overheating that will also save your energy.
Base Cord Storage
Handling the cords of almost all the kitchen appliances has always been annoying. Some electric kettles allow you to detach their cords when not in use and store them in base storage, reducing the clutter in your cabinets.
Water Gauge
A kettle with a visible water gauge will help you determine the amount of water or milk you are pouring into your appliance. Thus, you will be able to pour the exact amount required to make a perfect cup of tea or coffee.
Keep Warm Feature
Have you ever made something in your kettle but couldn’t consume it because you were in the middle of something important? If so, the keep-warm feature of the electric kettle will keep your tea or coffee hot until you get back to it and pour it into a mug.
Final Words
Choosing the best electric kettle should never be a daunting task. Taking these factors and features into account will help you make an informed decision and invest in a kettle that suits your preferences and budget.
Electric Kettle FAQ
Q: Do electric kettles boil faster than stovetop kettles?
A: Yes, electric kettles boil water or milk faster than standard kettles. If you want your morning coffee or tea to be ready within few minutes, then electric kettles are the best option for you.
Q: Can I leave water inside the kettle?
A: No, leaving water inside the kettle is not a good idea. It will lead to limescale that changes the taste of beverages and shortens the lifespan of the appliance.
Q: Is it okay to cook noodles in my electric kettle?
A: No, it is never okay to cook noodles in the electric kettle. Putting them in the pot case can lead to the risk of boiling over, which is messy as well as dangerous.