Small Kettle Buying Guide- How to Choose Your New Kettle

Kettles have changed over the past decades from stovetop kettles to electrical. They used to be quite large, and most people remember the high-pitched whistle it gave once the water heated up. For some of us, it brings back sweet memories of our childhood. For others, it offers a compact, easier option in heating water quickly for different beverages.

Electric tea kettles have changed drastically over time. At one point, they were large and clunky. Now, the best small tea kettle is small enough to fit into any sized kitchen and operate quickly. However, purchasing one isn’t as simple, and there are a few things to consider.

Small electric kettles are more reliable, safer, and generate less mess over stovetop kettles. Coffee and tea brew in the same manner as a stovetop kettle; however, instead of using them on top of a stove to heat the water, users simply plug it in. Many have a built-in security feature that prevents them from overflowing.

Many of them come equipped with a timer wherein you can set the time, meaning you can fill the kettle and set the timer the night before, so you wake up with warm water for tea/coffee.

In purchasing one, you will notice there are different things to look for. Some of them will depend on taste, while others may depend on functionality.

Things to Consider

THINGS TO CONSIDER

There are many factors to consider before buying a small kettle. Some are obvious such as safety. However, the one you choose should come equipped with all the functions that you need. Small kettles have come a long way from the stovetop designs.

Core Functions

The main goal of a small kettle is to quickly boil water and economically. Consider the wattage because a larger wattage gives quicker heating ability. You will want your kettle to be between the 1,000-1,500-watt range to be effective. Modestly priced kettles tend to fall into this category.

However, you want to consider how long it will take to heat up. It should be under five minutes.

Enhanced Features and Safety

Security is why people are using electric kettles over the stovetop. Most of them have an automatic shutdown feature to ensure the water doesn’t boil over. They turn off when the water level is reduced beyond a certain point and provide sturdy handles so users don’t burn themselves.

The perfect design needs to prevent the handle from becoming overly hot. Many kettles use a higher quality vinyl to protect against heat as you are pouring, often when the most scalds occur due to the steam.

The best way to gain this knowledge is by client testimonials. They will tell you what the product is like.

Design

Cordless alternatives for small kettles are very convenient. They allow you to move the pot around and walk with it if you are serving others. If you don’t want to have to carry cups for refills, this is the perfect solution.

There are some kettles that some kettles contain a spinning feature so users can twist and flip off the base for portability. Some kettles come with matching toasters as well! Stainless steel is the best option for a kettle as it is durable, easier to clean, avoids picking up previous scents, and better resists high temperatures.

Capacity of Water

Electric kettles tend to hold a higher volume of water than stovetop ones. They keep the water warmer and should provide one litre of storage. They will usually make about ten cups.

Larger capacity kettles will allow you to brew as much as you like without needing to constantly refill the water.

Affordability

The cost of a good kettle can be on the expensive side. However, most people aren’t willing to spend that much on a small electric kettle. Many moderately priced kettles provide the same features at a fraction of the cost.

Small Kettles to Consider

SMALL KETTLES TO CONSIDER

There are a variety of kettles available, and each has its own distinct features. You can purchase a complicated machine with more features or choose to buy a simple kettle that does the job.

The Russell Hobbs kettle has a 1.7-litre capacity and has brushed stainless steel accents. Users will know when the kettle is boiling as there is a blue illumination giving it an interesting effect.

This machine is energy-efficient, allowing customers to save 66% on energy bills.

The element is concealed and has a removable, washable filter for easy cleaning. It also includes a bottle of Russell Hobbs descaler.

Positives
  • One cup feature and will make six cups total. The one cup feature allows you to pour in enough water necessary, saving on energy costs.
  • Spout pours in a single-stream (prevents burns)
  • Cord storage
  • Made for right and left-handed people
  • 3,000 watts
 
Negatives
  • Some users report condensation issues
 

Ansio Electric Kettles are a 1.7-litre cordless kettle. They rotate 360°, have a thermostat built right in, and the stix controller generates a precise temperature reading to ensure safety. It has an LED light ring surrounding the heating plate that turns on when boiling.

The kettle turns off automatically when water is boiled and has a boil dry protection feature to prevent water levels from becoming dangerously low, saving power and makes sure users are safe.

The filter is removable and washable. There is an automatic lid opening that opens at the touch of a button and cleans easily.

Positives
  • 2,200 watts
  • Borosilicate glass
  • Does seven cups
  • Moderate noise level
 
Negatives
  • Not well balanced
  • May build up with limescale
  • Doesn’t always pour well
 

Russell Hobbs makes a smaller glass kettle with a .85 litre capacity. It is cordless and comes with a clear glass jug. Customers can watch the water boil. The polished accents and brushed steel casing give it a modern, contemporary look.

If you have limited space in your kitchen, this kettle is ideal. This kettle makes up to four cups at a time. Additionally, the water will turn the base blue when the water boils. The lid contains a push-button for easy filling and emptying. A washable, removable filter prevents limescale build-up and extends the life of the kettle.

Positives
  • 360° base
  • Integrated cord storage
  • 30% smaller in design
  • Saves energy by 60%
  • Spout avoids spills and splashes
 
Negatives
  • Lid may stick a bit
 

Airigo has designed a foldable electric kettle that is perfect for travel. Its collapsible design allows for more storage space when not in use. This kettle has a 500 ml capacity and is lightweight.

This kettle comes with a universal adaptor plug so customers can take it anywhere. The voltage adjusts and will automatically turn off to prevent water from burning dry. It will also reboil if the water cools below a certain point. This will always keep your water at the perfect temperature.

The Airigo boils in four to six minutes and is simple to use, sturdy, and pours easily. It uses BPA-free silicone along with food-grade stainless steel.

Positives
  • Comes with a carrying bag
  • 680 watts of power
  • Stainless steel bottom with adjustable voltage
 
Negatives
  • Slow flow rate
  • Difficult to pour
 

Fellow Electric kettle has a 900 ml capacity. It comes with a contoured neck and allows users to pour with precision. The electronic temperature control goes from 57-100°C and will turn off after 15 minutes if not active.

The LCD contains a time display, which customers found to be useful when brewing coffee by other methods.

The kettle is of quality 304 18/8 stainless steel. It provides a very sleek and modern look to any kitchen with its unique design.

Positives
  • Heats quickly
  • Saves electricity
  • Easy to use
 
Negatives
  • Some debate as to whether it contains a UK plug
 

Brewista Kettle has a gooseneck spout that generates optimal pouring control. This kettle allows you to select the precise temperature retention for a perfectly heated cup every time.

It comes with a 1.0-litre capacity and has a comfortable, ergonomic grip handle. The LCD panel displays the temperature control. Users will appreciate the keep warm and flash boil settings so that their cup is always kept warm.

It also has a 360° swivel design.

Positives
  • Comes in matte black
  • Heats quickly
  • Small size
  • Intuitive controls
 
Negatives
  • Wood finish peels after a few years
 

The Chefman Kettle changes colour from black to red while boiling. Customers will instantly be aware of when the water is hot. Customers can use it for coffee, tea, and instant oats. This kettle boils water quicker than traditional kettles, thus decreasing wait time. It also automatically turns off once the water boils.

A viewing window permits users to see how much water is in the kettle at any point. The cord wraps around the base to keep the kitchen tidy.

The kettle allows you to lift it from the 360° swivel base for cordless pouring capabilities. It is also wide enough to easily fill the sink.

The Chefman kettle comes with advanced safety technology with increased durability plus a one-year warranty.

Positives
  • Is available in four other colours
  • 7 litres
  • 3,000 watts
  • BPA free on the inside
  • Boil dry protection
  • Cord easily wraps around the base for easy storage
  • Cool-touch handles
  • Strix internal temperature control allows water to boil quicker
 
Negatives
  • May not last as long
 

We recommend this one due to its cool vintage appeal. While the  Breville kettle is more of a middle of the road appliance, it makes a great conversation piece.

This kettle has a 1.7-litre capacity and makes up to six to eight cups. It comes in four colours and has an elegant ridged appearance and a high-gloss finish.

The rear window generates a more accurate filling and illuminates once boiled. The accurate filling component will help customers save on energy as they know precisely how much water is required.

The filter is removable and cleans limescale deposits easily. The element cleans easily as well. It also has a 360° base that rotates, non-slip feet, cord storage, and a lid that lifts off.

Positives
  • High performance
  • Can purchase a matching toaster
 
Negatives
  • Inside of kettle is plastic
  • Some lingering taste due to plastic
 

Haden Jersey Cordless Kettle is another kettle with a vintage appeal. When removed, the kettle is cordless, which allows you to serve others easily. It is BPA free and has a lightweight body composed of stainless steel.

This kettle has a 1.5-litre capacity, and owners can view the markers located within the clear window. A light will come on while boiling along with the temperature gauge. Markers outline the water level, so users can fill the kettle up to what they need. Again, this saves on energy.

The removable filter prevents limescale build-up, and users can buy an additional filter if needed.

Positives
  • Matching toaster available
  • Rapid boil
  • 3,000 watts
  • Resistant to rust
  • Easy to care for
  • Durable
  • Cool, ergonomic handle
  • Removable lid for easy pouring and filling
  • Contains a boil dry feature
  • Has overheat protection
  • Integrated cord storage
  • Company has over 150 years of experience
 
Negatives
  • No automatic shut off
 
small electric kettles

There are many small electric kettles to choose from, but your highest priority should be safety. Not all kettles are created equally. Some have plastic interiors/exteriors which tend to crack and aren’t as durable as their stainless-steel counterparts.

Furthermore, plastic is porous and will absorb tastes quite quickly. While most people think that it’s just water, this can be quite significant. Some people complain about a metallic aftertaste in plastic kettles. Plus, they don’t offer the same health benefits as a stainless-steel kettle.

Stainless steel kettles are easier to maintain and don’t absorb odours readily. They are more durable and will last longer. They are generally a better choice in a kettle. While they won’t compact like some kettles on the list, they are well-designed and have a small footprint.

Appliance Reviewer
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