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Which Kettle to Buy? The Very Kettle Buying Guide

It’s a staple in every kitchen, but not all kettles are created equal. With so many styles, features and technologies bubbling up in the market, finding the perfect kettle isn’t always as simple as it seems. Whether you’re a tea aficionado, a coffee connoisseur, or simply someone who loves to get cosy with a nice hot drink, it’s important to choose the kettle that’s right for you. To make sure you find the ideal kettle for your all brewing needs, read our comprehensive Kettle Buying Guide and let us guide you in the right direction.

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Not sure where to start? What to look for when buying a Kettle

Capacity

When it comes to kettles, size matters so choose one that can hold the right amount of water for your everyday needs. Standard kettle sizes range from 1.7 litres (around 7 cups) to smaller 1 cup options which are ideal for solo use, travel or saving space.

Speed

When you’re gasping for a brew, there’s no time to waste! Look for a kettle with around 3 kWh for a quicker boiling time to quench your thirst faster.

Temperature Control

For the connoisseurs of the perfect brew, you might want to consider a variable temperature kettle. They allow you to select the precise water temperature for your delicate green teas or robust coffees. Savour the flavours of your favourite drinks, the way they were meant to be enjoyed.

Safety Features

Ensure the kettle has automatic shutdown to prevent dry boiling, sturdy handles to avoid burns, and quality materials to withstand heat. Some kettles remain hot to the touch after boiling, which is not usually an issue for adult-only households but can be if you have smaller children or pets who like to jump up on the counter when you’re not looking!

Design

Whichever kettle you choose, it’s going to sit prominently on your counter for years to come so whether your kitchen has a classic retro vibe or a sleek and modern finish, make sure your kettle is the right style for your home. You could even look for a kettle make that’s collaborated with a designer such as Laura Ashley, Emma Bridgewater and even Dolce & Gabbana for a truly attention grabbing appliance!

Noise Level

Some kettles can be pretty noisy when boiling. If you're sensitive to noise or simply like making drinks early in the morning/late at night, look for quieter models. As an added bonus, you can also make yourself a drink in peace, without those cheeky requests for an extra cup!

Is a higher wattage kettle better?

Well, that depends. If you’re a chain tea drinker, then a high wattage (3 kWh) kettle might be better for you as it’ll boil the kettle faster, saving you time between cups. The faster boiling process also means the kettle is running for a shorter period, which can actually make it more energy-efficient in practice. While high-wattage kettles use more power per minute, they often end up consuming less total energy than a lower-wattage kettle that takes longer to reach boiling point. However, if you’re happy to wait a couple of minutes longer or you only use your kettle occasionally, a lower wattage kettle of 1-2 kWh might be all you need.

Which is better: A 2 kW kettle or A 3 kW kettle?

High Wattage

With great wattage comes great boiling speeds. If you’re a multitasker with a busy schedule, a high-wattage (around 3 kWh) kettle might be best suited for you as they can take as little as 45 seconds to boil a cup of water. It’s a great way to get your water boiled faster, so you can continue to power through your to-do list.

Low Wattage

If you work in a quiet environment, a lower wattage kettle might be better suited to you as it heats more gradually which means it’ll make less noise during boiling. The slower pace can also give you better temperature control, so it’s ideal if you enjoy brewing delicate teas or need specific water temperatures for different drinks. Lower wattage kettles also tend to be gentler on internal components which means they’ll potentially last you longer than a rapid boil kettle.

How much electricity does a kettle use?

If you’re just making a quick cup of tea for yourself (about 250-300ml of water), you’ll only use a small amount of electricity, around 0.03 - 0.05 kWh. Depending on the wattage of your kettle, this can take anywhere from 45 seconds to 1.5 minutes for the kettle to be fully boiled. However, if you’re brewing a pot for the whole family, say about 1.5 litres to make 5-8 cups of tea, it’ll take 0.17 - 0.26 kWh, and up to 6 minutes to get that water bubbling.

The cost of boiling a kettle

The cost of boiling a kettle depends on the size of the kettle and the electricity usage rate. But on average, it’s roughly 5-7p per boil.

Which brand of kettle is right for me?

When it comes to kettle brands, there’s something for everyone - whether you’re after a high-end look, the latest tech, or just a reliable kettle that gets the job done. Sticking with a trusted brand can make it easier to coordinate all your kitchen appliances, so if you’re a fan of Bosch, Daewoo, or Swan, you’ll have plenty of stylish options to choose from for a seamless kitchen aesthetic.
If you’re all about the latest features, check out brands like Ninja or Sage, known for their clever innovations such as quiet boil technology and variable temperature settings. But if you’re looking for something budget-friendly and dependable, brands like Tower, Kenwood, and Morphy Richards are perfect for effortless boiling!

How many watts does a kettle use?

Typically, between 1-3kw, but every kettle is different. Some are made to boil water quicker, which means they use more watts and some are made with eco considerations in mind, so they use a little less. A full 3kW kettle can take between 2-4 minutes to boil whereas a full 1kW kettle can take 5-6 minutes so it’s important to choose a wattage that best fits your needs.

What is the average life of a kettle?

Many kettles last between 4-5 years with proper use, which is pretty impressive given how often we use them. They are a great investment that will pay dividends (and lots of hot brews) for years to come.

What types of kettles are there?

Stovetop Kettles

Classic, traditional, and radiating heritage vibes, they are the original-style kettles that you place on a stovetop to boil. They offer great versatility, allowing you to use a variety of heat sources, even when there are no electricity sources. Not just for camping, they look fantastic in the home and allow you to heat water to your preferred temperature.

Electric Kettles

The type most of us think of when we hear the word ‘kettle’. They have an internal heating element and are powered via plug socket. They boil water faster than stovetop kettles and often come with features like temperature control and automatic shut-off.

Gooseneck Kettles

As the name suggests, these kettles have a long, narrow spout that allows for precise pouring, making them ideal for pour-over coffee and delicate teas. 
They have a natural elegance to them so are perfect for special occasions..

Travel Kettles

Compact and lightweight, these kettles are designed for portability and are perfect for travellers who need to boil water on the go. They are also great those with limited surface space or live alone.

Smart Kettles

Smart kettles are loaded with the latest tech, allowing you to select the water temperature, keep it warm for your next cup and more. Many can be controlled via smartphone app or voice control, allowing you to get the kettle going before you even get out of bed!

Whistling Kettles

Usually stovetop-powered, they are kettles that emit a whistle when the water reaches boiling point, letting you know that it’s ready.

Best Kettles on the market

What Is the most energy efficient Kettle?

If you’re looking to keep your bills down, the Russell Hobbs Inspire Kettle is a great option. With 1/2/3 cup indicators, the Inspire kettle allows you to measure the perfect amount for each drink. By boiling for only the single cup, rather than a litre, it can save up to a whopping 66% energy per boil.

Shop Russell Hobbs Inspire Kettle

Best Kettle for hard water

When it comes to hard water, a stainless-steel kettle is a must as they’re the most resistant to water damage and corrosion. The Dualit Architect Kettle is a great option if you live in a hard water area as its concealed element means there’s less contact with the water, and the interchangeable panels and removable filter are essential for keeping your kettle going for many years to come.

Shop Dualit Architect Kettle

Best kettle for induction hobs

If you want total versatility, then you will love the Outdoor Revolution Induction Hob Whistling Kettle. Not only does this kettle have an impressive 2.2L capacity, but it can be used on almost any heating surface. Your induction oven will bring it to the boil at home, but if you like to camp or travel, it can even be used on gas/electric stoves. With a traditional design, it will look amazing on your stovetop even when it’s not being used. The perfect cord-free way to enjoy the perfect brew wherever, whenever. It’ll even give you a whistle when it’s ready, so no need to watch it boil!

Shop Outdoor Revolution Induction Hob Whistling Kettle

Best lightweight kettle

For some tea and coffee drinkers, such as the elderly or those with limited mobility, a lightweight kettle is essential. They are designed to weigh considerably less than a standard kettle, making it much easier to lift them without dangerous spills or injury. Kettles that can swivel on the base and fully detach are also an excellent choice for people with mobility issues as the cord can often limit the range of movement. A great lightweight option is the Breville HotCup Water Dispenser which is a kettle of a totally different kind. With a coffee machine-like design, it dispenses hot water at the press of a button without any need to lift or pour. It also has a large water window, making it easier to see how much water you have left without having to lift the kettle to open it and check.

Shop Breville BRITA HotCup

Best cordless kettle in the UK

If you’re looking for a cordless kettle that has it all, the Russell Hobbs Attentiv Variable Temperature Kettle is an amazing option due to its smart design and flexible features. Being cordless, there’s no getting in a tangle with wires and the 360° swivel base makes it perfect for both right- and left-handed users. The variable temperature control gives you a range of settings for different drinks so you know you’ll be getting the perfect brew every time, there’s a keep-warm function, rapid boil technology, and even a tea infuser basket - all in a sleek stainless steel finish.

Shop Russell Hobbs Attentiv Variable Temperature Kettle

Best Kettle For Tech-Loving Homes

Looking for a kettle that's as smart as it is convenient? That would be the Swan Alexa 1.5-Litre Smart Kettle! As the first of its kind to feature Alexa compatibility, you can start boiling water with just your voice – all without stepping foot off the sofa or bed. Perfect for those mornings when you need a little extra time. In addition to saving you time, the Swan Alexa Smart Kettle lets you adjust the temperature, so you can enjoy your hot drinks exactly the way you like them every single time.

Shop Swan Alexa Kettle

Did you know?

“Replacing your old kettle but not sure what to do with your new one? Find your nearest recycling or donation point at recycleyourelectricals.org.uk”

Elisha, Very Tech & Elec Expert

Recycle your kettle

FAQ’s

Are more expensive kettles worth it?

If you’re after a kettle that’ll come with the latest technology and last you for years to come, then it’s often better to spend slightly more for to make your life that little bit easier. Think variable temperature settings for brewing delicate teas at just the right heat, quiet-boil technology for early mornings without waking the whole house, and fast-boil functionality to get your cuppa ready in seconds. Plus, many premium kettles come with energy-saving modes, keeping long-term costs down.

Are filter kettles worth it?

Filter kettles can be really beneficial, especially if you live in an area with hard water. They are designed to remove impurities like chlorine and limescale which can improve the taste of your water and the quality of your favourite hot drinks. However, many models require cleaning and filter changes to keep the kettle functioning at its best, but for a lot of people, the better-tasting water, health benefits and limescale protection is worth that little extra maintenance.

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