How to choose an electric kettle: advice from experts

It is difficult to find a person who does not like to drink tea or coffee. That's why thousands of people boil water every day. It would seem that there should be no problems with choosing a kettle. Finding a model that is suitable for price and capacity is not difficult. In addition, stores offer a wide selection of electric kettles to suit every taste.

The key to delicious drinks is proper boiling of water.

However, this is where the main difficulty lies: finding a good kettle is not as easy as it might seem at first glance. Some may turn out to be unreliable and break down after just a couple of months, and some may even be harmful to health.

In this article, we tried to figure out how to choose a high-quality electric kettle and what you should pay priority attention to when choosing.

Housing material

The first thing we pay attention to when deciding which electric kettle to buy for our home is its appearance. The material also plays a significant role in the choice: some people like modern glass teapots, while others like cozy ceramic models.

However, not only the appearance depends on the material: different teapots behave differently. In addition, some materials are more reliable than others, and some are more convenient to use.

Therefore, we have compiled a comparative database where we clearly described the advantages and disadvantages of various electric kettles.

Whistle

A kettle with a whistle uses a characteristic whistle to signal the water is boiling. This allows you to avoid complete evaporation of water, damage to the kettle and even fire. The whistle is placed at the tip of the spout.

Movable handle – this kettle is easy to transport and store.

Whistle opening

Removable – the whistle attachment can be put on and taken off if necessary.

With a lever - the whistle is raised and lowered using a lever located next to the whistle.

Trigger on the handle – the trigger mechanism located on the handle allows you to simply and conveniently open and close the whistle attachment. The safest way, eliminating direct contact of your hand with a hot whistle, and therefore the risk of getting burned.

Important: in some cheap models of kettles, when the whistle is opened, boiling water condensate splashes out - you can burn your hands. Unfortunately, such shortcomings can only be identified empirically. Most often this drawback concerns triggered whistles.

Detachable whistle
Whistle with trigger
Whistle on the lever

Choosing a plastic kettle

Plastic is the most accessible and inexpensive material. This is what explains the low price of electric kettles. If you wish, you can find a model that costs only four hundred rubles. Most often they are purchased for a summer house or office - if it breaks, then it’s not a shame to throw it away.

A plastic kettle is an inexpensive option for everyday use.

However, this accessibility also hides the main danger of such devices: cheap plastic can cause significant harm to your health. Many mixtures release toxic formaldehyde when heated. This is not dangerous in some appliances, but in the case of a kettle, the substance goes directly into the water you drink. When formaldehyde accumulates, it causes severe allergic reactions and damages the liver.

Perhaps you should completely abandon plastic teapots? Not if you choose them correctly. A more expensive plastic option is polycarbonate. It is safe for health, so you can safely purchase models from it. The price for them starts from 1000 rubles, but you will be sure of the quality.

Caring for teapots made of various types of plastic is very simple: just wipe them regularly to remove dirt. In addition, thanks to the low price, you don’t have to worry about breakdowns - replacing the unit will be a snap.

The latter quality is especially important considering that the average service life of such a kettle is only two years.

The disadvantages include the fact that most plastic kettles are produced by Chinese manufacturers who do not provide certificates. Therefore, purchase devices only from trusted stores.

Check the quality of the kettle carefully.

As for how to choose a safe plastic kettle, we recommend smelling it. Polypropylene will emit an unpleasant, pungent odor, while polycarbonate has no odor at all.

In addition, you need to inspect the device. The seams must be smooth and tight, without protruding parts. The body should not have scratches, abrasions, roughness, or uneven color. Noticed one or more signs? Most likely, the kettle was made from poor quality non-food plastic. In this case, you will have to refuse the purchase.

Manufacturers rating

In the global production of household appliances for the kitchen, European and American giants and young Russian companies compete. Most of them began producing electric kettles after receiving recognition for the production of other equipment.

The consumer, knowing about the advantages of a well-known brand, prefers to purchase its model.

But Russian companies are successfully winning their place in the office market by offering cheaper, but no less high-quality goods.

Bosch

The company traces its history back to the end of the 19th century. The beginning of its success was associated with the production of spare parts for cars and power tools. Bosch products are known for their high quality: reliability and ease of use.

The entry into the world market of household appliances occurred in the second half of the 20th century. The range of electrical products for the home is constantly expanding. The trust gained among consumers in the manufacturing segment extended to coffee grinders, washing machines, dishwashers, refrigerators and electric kettles. Reliability and durability - this is what the buyer expects from products under this brand.

Philips

The Dutch company has been known for over 100 years. The company began producing consumer goods at the beginning of the 20th century. These were electric lamps, then radios followed. Philips is known for its innovative approach to all its products, thanks to which it has won recognition and respect from consumers.

Tefal

Tefal released the first electric kettle in 1982. The French company is known worldwide as a manufacturer of non-stick frying pans. In 2009, the billionth frying pan was produced. Since 1968, the company has been integrated into Group SEB. The brands “Mulinex” and “Roventa” have united under “one roof”.

Electric kettles are produced in a plastic case. Lightweight, powerful, with simple functionality. The magic of the brand extends to all Tefal household appliances.

Delonghi

The Italian company began conquering the market at the beginning of the 20th century, with the production of heaters. The expansion of production was carried out through the acquisition of companies producing household appliances: air conditioners, refrigerators. The appearance of Delonghi electric kettles happened in 1995.

Small kitchen appliances are produced in China, in factories owned by the company. Italian designers gravitate towards traditional forms of teapots, for which there is a steady demand. The advantage over other brands lies in consumer trust in the brand, original design, and affordable price.

Redmond

Redmond is a Russian company that produces a huge range of household appliances, but is primarily known for its super-functional multicookers. Electric kettles attract with advanced functionality that famous brands do not have.

Polaris

Russian brand for the production of kitchen equipment, heaters, air conditioners, and dishes. Factories producing small household appliances are mainly located in China. The company's products have an excellent price-quality ratio with original design and reliability.

Scarlett

At the start of its activities, the Russian-Chinese company produced small household appliances: electric kettles, irons, vacuum cleaners and hair dryers. Successful marketing and high quality of goods have made the company's products one of the most popular in Russia.

How to choose a stainless steel kettle

Shiny and stylish, stainless steel is another favorite among electric kettles. Many people prefer these models for their strength and reliability. However, you also need to be able to choose the right kettle so as not to run into a fake.

A steel kettle is a reliable and durable option.

First of all, keep in mind that sometimes unscrupulous manufacturers try to pass off ordinary aluminum as stainless steel. Such kettles quickly break down, and when heated, they release iron oxide, which is harmful to health, into the water. Identifying them is quite simple: if you run a pointed object across the surface, a mark will remain on the aluminum, but stainless steel will not be damaged.

In addition, you should not be fooled by a too low price - a good stainless steel kettle cannot cost less than two thousand rubles.

For this price you get a lot of advantages:

Stainless steel is considered an environmentally friendly material, so it does not contain any harmful impurities. It is absolutely harmless to your health.
Even if the kettle falls, it has a good chance of surviving due to the high strength of the material. The average service life of a stainless steel kettle is six years. This is significantly higher than most analogues.
There are models with double walls on sale. We recommend paying attention to them. Due to their high heat resistance, they do not allow heat to pass through, so you do not risk burning your hands if you accidentally touch a kettle with boiling water.

However, please note that caring for a stainless steel kettle should be as careful as possible. If you damage it from the inside, the unit will have to be thrown away: it may cause harm to your health.

Nowadays steel is painted in different colors, so you can easily find an option for your kitchen.

And the price is not encouraging - available models start from two thousand rubles, and there is practically no upper limit: it all depends on the manufacturer, design and functionality.

DESIGN

Contact group or controller

This is the very point where the bottom of the kettle connects with the stand, the point of contact with electricity, in other words, a metal pin in the bottom of the kettle. The controller is such an important part that it is produced separately, and kettle manufacturers buy them for their devices from companies that specialize in this very thing.

There are only two names worth remembering here: STRIX and OTTER, look for these words next to the contact group, either on the bottom of the kettle, or on the stand. If the controller is produced by these companies, then this is a kind of quality mark. If it’s a different company, but at least it’s written on the device, then you can still think about it. If nothing is written there, be sure that the contact group may not be reliable.

STRIX and OTTER controllers. It is better if the contact group is in the center of the stand, and not on the side; such devices can be placed on the base in any position (the same 360⁰ rotation on the base from the technical characteristics), these kettles are convenient for right-handers and left-handers.

Unidentified contact group, side-mounted controller.

Heating element and power

“He has an open element there, not a closed one!” - kettle sellers say contemptuously and dissuade you from buying an inexpensive device with a spiral. Indeed, in most modern models the spiral is hidden by a stainless steel disk. This is done to make the kettle easier to clean; the spiral “overgrows” with scale faster and is not easy to clean. But in all other respects, the spiral is no worse: for example, such a kettle boils water faster than a device with the same power and a closed heating element.

As a result, you have to increase the power of the kettle. If previously the normal maximum power indicator was 1800 W, now it is 2200-2400 W, and not every wiring can withstand this. This, by the way, explains the high sales levels of cheap and not very powerful kettles with spirals in the regions: the old wiring is not designed for 2200 W! As for the stainless steel from which the disc that closes the spiral is made, some manufacturers use steel with a special polish for easier descaling, for example, Tefal.

Safety

Modern high-quality electric kettles provide 2 levels of protection: 1) shutdown when boiling - everyone has this; 2) shutdown when there is no water in the kettle. In both cases, the temperature sensors are bimetallic plates, which, when heated, deform and turn off the heating element; simply, during “dry boiling,” the sensor reacts to a temperature higher than 100 ⁰C (the boiling point of water).

Electrical safety is the most important indicator. It is almost impossible to determine the degree of security of a kettle by eye; there is only one piece of advice here: do not buy devices at bargain shops, markets, or secondhand. Do not choose very cheap kettles from unknown brands. “Draining” of low-quality products most often occurs in regions and rural areas, but if you save 500 rubles on a purchase, you take a risk: malfunction of kettles very often leads to fires.

Consumers often complain about the cord on kettles being too short: they say it’s inconvenient. However, this is correct and safe. The length of the power cord is 0.75 m - this is the standard, and a proper kettle must have a place to store the cord in the stand. All this is necessary so that the wire does not sag and the risk of touching it and knocking over a kettle of boiling water is minimal.

The lid and the method of opening it are the most important indicator of not only convenience, but also safety. The ideal option is one that reclines when you press a button. Acceptable - wide grip, which can be used to open the lid manually. There are removable covers: if you buy a model with this design, evaluate the fixation of the cover, it should be reliable, but at the same time the cover should open easily, since if you have to remove it with force, there is a risk of getting burned. Please note that if the kettle handle is located above the lid (like conventional models with a whistle), then pouring water into it from a filter jug is extremely inconvenient: you will definitely spill it on the device, after which it is unsafe to place it on an electric base.

You should not buy a kettle in an online store, since you definitely need to hold the model in your hand and estimate that with 1.5 liters of water it will be 1.5 kg heavier. Is it convenient, will your hand not twist, will your teenage daughter or grandmother be able to handle it? All this is extremely important for safety. The heaviest teapots are glass and ceramic, but the shape of the handle plays a huge role. Ideally, if it is thick, with a comfortable grip and located high, it is optimal if the transition to the handle starts directly from the lid. This creates the correct distribution of the weight of the device when the load is on the hand.

2 or more fuses, a place to store the cord, a hinged lid, a high and thick handle, detailed information about the electrical protection and insulation class in the device passport.

One fuse is not enough, buying a cheap kettle of an unknown brand.

How to choose a glass teapot

Stylish glass electric kettles are now at the peak of fashion. According to statistics, this is perhaps the most popular material. They look unusual and can become a real decoration of your kitchen.

In addition, manufacturers, trying to meet trends, produce a wide variety of models: fancy shapes, with painted patterns, with LED backlighting or imitation water coloring. Therefore, you can easily choose a kettle to suit every taste.

It is easy to choose any glass teapot design.

In addition, glass is the most environmentally friendly material, so such teapots can conditionally be called the safest for health. Why conditional? In any case, only the body will be glass. The heating element and lid are made of plastic or metal, so it is important to pay the same attention to their quality as in previous cases.

Otherwise, you risk purchasing a kettle that is harmful to your health. In addition, at the moment glass teapots are the most expensive in terms of price. Especially if we are talking about devices made of impact-resistant glass - and it only makes sense to buy such. Ordinary glass is not resistant to mechanical damage and can be easily broken.

Check the quality of plastic and metal parts - your health depends on them.

Please also take into account the care features: you will have to use only bottled water, as any plaque will immediately catch your eye. And the outside will have to be washed almost every day - fingerprints and the slightest specks of dust are noticeable on the glass.

NEW TECHNOLOGIES

In the struggle for consumers, teapot manufacturers are looking for and, it must be said, finding all sorts of bait. Some of them can actually be useful, some are ordinary PR moves, but more often - a reasonable combination of both.

Temperature adjustment

You select the temperature (usually 60/70/80/90/100 ⁰С), press the button - and the kettle heats the water to the set temperature. Great, but the presence of an adjustable thermostat in the kettle immediately increases the cost of the device by 1.5-2 or even more times. Temperature adjustment is necessary for proper brewing of different types of tea - white, yellow, green, black - this is how manufacturers position this function. But in fact, it is unlikely that in our country there will be a number of connoisseurs of tea traditions corresponding to some incredible volume of teapots with temperature control brought to us.

Often this is just a way to lure a buyer who is unlikely to brew different types of green tea at home according to all the rules of the Chinese tea ceremony. But what temperature adjustment is really needed for is if you need to dilute baby food: porridge or formula. But such devices look impressive and modern, and in addition, they also have a temperature maintenance function or a “keep warm” mode. Most models maintain heat for 30 minutes, this is enough for tea drinking, then the mode turns off and no electricity is consumed.

There are models where this mode is designed for 4 hours of operation - you must remember to turn off such a kettle if the tea party is over, otherwise it will use up too much electricity. Often, along with the temperature control mode, the kettle also has a long-boiling function. This is relevant outside the city when using well or simply untreated water and helps to further disinfect it. In city apartments, this function is proposed to be used to rid water of volatile chlorine compounds that evaporate during prolonged boiling.

Quiet kettle

For a very long time, many manufacturers tried to figure out how to ensure that the kettle did not make noise when boiling. One of the solutions is just double walls; they not only preserve the glass, but also act as sound insulation. But there is another approach. Literally on the eve of the new year 2014, the press service of the VITEK brand stated that the company’s engineers managed to cope with this difficult task. The solution was a ceramic coating of the heating element.

Thanks to the patented ceramic-coated heating element from the German company Weilburger, water boils almost silently. In models with a powerful steel heating element and a fairly thin aluminum base, the temperature at the bottom of the kettle is distributed extremely unevenly. You can see that during the boiling process, the bubbles are localized at the bottom in the shape of a horseshoe, which exactly matches the shape of the heater on the back of the bottom.

The ceramic coating of the heating element helps distribute heat evenly, which is designed to reduce noise levels. In addition, the use of ceramics reduces the amount of scale - the heating element is easier to clean.

Kettle with antibacterial effect

An interesting solution is to prolong the freshness of the water in the kettle. In the old days, a silver spoon was used for such purposes; today you can buy a teapot made of a special material that includes silver particles. The Tefal brand has released a whole range of such devices - the Silver ION line with models BF 925132/BF 9255/BF 9259/BF 9252/BF 9991. Silver ions integrated into the plastic during the production process prevent the growth of bacteria on the surfaces of the device, and the water in it remains fresh up to 24 hours.

Kettle-thermos

The heat preservation function involves constant switching on/off of the heating element and consumption of electricity. The answer to the question “How to avoid this?” It seems obvious: make a thermos kettle with double walls or a flask inside.

This method is used in thermopots, but their volume is too large - from 3 to 5 liters. In 2012, Panasonic introduced an interesting model of a kettle with double walls - Panasonic NC-ZK1: its double walls made of stainless steel maintain the water temperature for a long time and do not allow the body to heat up from the outside, eliminating the risk of burns. A pleasant addition to this design is the reduced noise level, and A small minus can be considered the reduced usable volume of the kettle - 1.4 liters, while externally the device is quite large.

Kettle with infuser

“A kettle that brews tea itself” - this is the slogan of a famous brand for several years now, which has been tempting us to buy a kettle for the price of a washing machine. Inside the glass flask of this “miracle” there is a stainless steel infuser, where you need to put the tea leaves, and then select the temperature mode - different for each type of tea. And - voila! - pour already brewed tea from the kettle. In addition to the indecently inflated price, such a device has a number of disadvantages. Firstly, such a teapot requires very careful care: after brewing, the glass walls of the teapot instantly darken, become stained, and the device looks untidy.

Secondly, all the scale that inevitably forms in the kettle remains in the tea brewed in it. Yes, it will not get into the cup when pouring - the filter will prevent this, but the tea will be brewed directly with scale, which, alas, forms even when using filtered and bottled water. But for those who are not afraid of these disadvantages, there is good news: such a kettle can be found in an assortment of reputable brands at more affordable prices: from 2500 to 4000 rubles, for example, PerfectTea BJ700D from Tefal or GK-1770 from Binatone.

How to choose a ceramic teapot

In the case of electric kettles, ceramics are a relatively new material. Ten years ago it was practically not used. Therefore, many do not know how to choose the right ceramic teapot and what to pay attention to.

A ceramic teapot adds coziness to any kitchen.

First of all, you need to take into account that if there are children or people with hand diseases in the family, it is better to think about another model - ceramics are quite heavy and the lightest model weighs at least one and a half kilograms.

In addition, clay products are not very durable - if you drop them, they are likely to break. Considering the not-so-low price, this can be quite annoying. And possible injuries should not be ruled out.

In addition, the kettle is not suitable for those who are used to sleeping longer in the morning and then getting ready in a matter of minutes: it takes longer to heat up than any analogue models.

Ceramic teapots with a capacity of more than one and a half liters are rarely found on sale. This is enough for 3-4 people, but if you have a large family or often have guests, consider a different type.

On the other hand, while heating slowly, it cools just as slowly. Counterfeiting of ceramic teapots is impossible: they have not yet learned how to imitate baked clay, which means you are guaranteed to purchase a teapot made from environmentally friendly material.

Clay can be given the most bizarre shapes.

Well, and of course, don’t forget about the appearance: ceramic teapots look very unusual and are ideal for country or retro style kitchens. On sale you can find a wide variety of models of any color, with patterns or unusual “antique” shapes.

Having decided on the material, move on to the main part of choosing an electric kettle - its filling, technological component.

Which kettle should I buy? It's all about the material

When going to the store to buy an electric kettle, you need to accurately determine the material of the product. You have to choose from several main options: plastic, metal, heat-resistant glass and ceramics. It is the material that largely determines the performance characteristics of the device, its weight, safety and external gloss.

. The price of an electric kettle also depends on it, which can vary from several hundred to tens of thousands of rubles. For example, you can buy an electric kettle with a plastic body without significant costs, while a ceramic product will definitely cost a pretty penny.

Metal teapots

Electric kettles made of stainless steel have been popular almost always. This is not surprising: the metal is strong, durable, not afraid of moisture and is not at all demanding to maintain. Metal kettles look very modern, always fit well into a minimalist interior and are available in the widest range

. But the most important thing is that the metal is absolutely non-toxic, so you don’t have to worry about the possible and very unpleasant consequences of its use. This is true even for the cheapest electric kettles, with only one amendment: aromatic tea or even rich black coffee in this case may well give off a metallic taste. Light, but still noticeable.

By the way, lightness is not typical for metal teapots - the products are quite weighty compared to plastic appliances. It is also worth taking into account the high thermal conductivity of steel, which somewhat complicates the operation process: when water is heated, the body also becomes very hot, and careless touching it can lead to burns. However, this problem can also be solved, because in modern stores you can easily buy a double-walled kettle

– this unique thermos is free from the shortcomings of its “simple” brother.

When choosing a steel product, it is important to remember the “noisiness” of metals. It is impossible to heat water in such a kettle quietly and unnoticeably, regardless of the model. This flaw is not so significant, however, if there are small children in the house, it, coupled with the heavy weight of the device, can cause discomfort.

Glass electric kettles

The most popular electric kettles today, combining affordable cost, visual appeal and environmental friendliness. The body of such products is made of glass, which has excellent heat resistance and impact resistance. You should not expect any specific smell or any taste from such a kettle; drinks prepared in it will not affect your health in any way - even in the long term

Thanks to the transparency of the walls, it is easy and convenient to control the water level in the device, and their impressive thickness allows the heat to be retained longer

. However, the main “strength” of a glass electric kettle, for which buyers love it so dearly, is its impeccable aesthetics. The glass looks bright, sophisticated, elegant; in addition to the colored plastic edging, the appearance of the device becomes light and, at the same time, complete.

Illuminated glass electric kettles have won particular love among customers. Under the bulb of such models there are miniature light bulbs that begin to shine immediately when the device is turned on. When the water reaches the set temperature, the shade of the glow changes, signaling that the kettle has done its job and you can safely proceed to the next stage of preparing the drink. Thanks to the lighting, a glass teapot looks even more impressive and can become one of the main highlights of the kitchen interior

. However, it is not always advisable to overpay for this “filling”, because the material is quite self-sufficient.

Before buying an electric kettle of this type, it is important to consider the vulnerable aspects of the material. The transparency of the glass reveals even the smallest errors in care, so you will have to clean the device from plaque and dirt with enviable regularity. Just like metal, it conducts heat quite well, so getting burned on a boiling kettle in this case is elementary. And finally, glass, even impact-resistant, is a breakable material. Under ordinary living conditions, this quality is unlikely to make itself felt, but during transportation it may well appear.

Plastic electric kettles

The most affordable price, lightness, pleasant appearance and high heating rate - these are the main characteristics of plastic devices. In addition, the material is very easily and quickly cleaned of dirt (which, in principle, it is not prone to), so caring for the product is not at all difficult

. The water in such a kettle quickly turns into boiling water, eliminating long waits, but the body itself warms up weakly, without creating a risk of burns - an almost ideal combination of functionality and safety.

However, the safety of plastic kettles is one of the favorite topics of debate. Many argue that when exposed to high temperatures, plastic releases substances harmful to health and this can lead to dire consequences. According to this very common belief, water boiled in a plastic kettle literally becomes a poison that slowly destroys the body. And this is true if we are talking about low-quality or simply unsuitable (not “food grade”) plastic.

Representatives of polymers such as nylon, silicone, polypropylene and polyacetal are classified as “food grade”: even with strong heating, they do not react chemically with foods and liquids. In this case, the device should not smell either: the presence of a strong amber often indicates the manufacturer’s dishonesty. Ardent opponents of plastic in the kitchen should take into account that
even the most environmentally friendly kettles contain elements made of polymers (in addition to the handle and edging) - silicone gaskets that are located inside the unit
.

When deciding to buy an electric kettle made of plastic, it is important to remember that this group of materials is short-lived. Constant exposure to high temperatures over time depletes the plastic, making it brittle and prone to cracks. The chlorine contained in the water also adds its fly in the ointment. If you place the device on a windowsill, the “life” of the kettle will be noticeably shortened by ultraviolet radiation. However, the low price of electric kettles of this type allows you to painlessly update this kitchen attribute.

Ceramic electric kettles

As a rule, they have the most familiar, classic design. Therefore, they look very cozy, “at home.” They are characterized by maximum environmental safety, do not emit harmful substances during heating and are completely odorless. Boiling water in a ceramic kettle is an almost silent process

, which distinguishes it very favorably from its metal counterpart. Scale does not form in it too quickly, so it is very easy to care for the product.

Another pleasant bonus of ceramic products is the ability to maintain temperature for as long as possible.

. This is convenient, but there is one “but”: ceramics also take quite a long time to reach the required temperature values, being much inferior to metal, glass, and plastic. The difference is not so critical - no more than a minute, but during everyday use in a family of 3-4 people it can make a difference. Such a kettle is unlikely to be suitable for entertaining numerous guests: the capacity of most ceramic units does not exceed 1.2 liters.

Buying an electric kettle with a ceramic body inexpensively is also not an easy task. In terms of cost, it does not compare favorably with all other “competitors” that have equal parameters and functionality. And finally, strength is not the strongest indicator of any ceramic product, and an electric kettle, alas, is no exception. However, in many cases these flaws are successfully covered by the advantages of the material.

Brief conclusion:

if you are looking for an inexpensive electric kettle, choose plastic, giving preference to proven and reliable manufacturers. The price is not so important, but do you like the classics? A ceramic product will come in handy. Those who are looking for a device that will last for decades to come should choose stainless steel. If your priority is environmental friendliness and aesthetics, we recommend buying an electric kettle with a glass body.

Types of electric kettles

Modern electric kettles are not always just heating devices. We'll talk about fancy features like remote control below.

Here we suggest you understand what types of electric kettles are:

Electric kettles with an open heating element in the shape of a spiral are the most inexpensive. Most often they use a spiral made of stainless steel or chrome plated. The power outlet is located on the side.
For kettles with a closed heating element, the power connector is located at the bottom, in the center of the stand. It's much more convenient and neat. The stainless steel heating element is hidden under a thin protective layer, which completely prevents contact with water and contributes to its safety.
One of the latest technological achievements is the so-called thermopots. They combine the options of both a regular electric kettle and a thermos. When connected to the network, the device can maintain the water temperature at a given level for up to several hours, simply heating it up if necessary.

Let's take a closer look at the advantages and disadvantages of various types of electric kettles.

Electric kettles with lighting

Lighting in electrical appliances is not only a design solution, but also convenient and practical. Cheaper models are equipped with a backlight when turned on, while expensive ones will allow you to admire the rising bubbles in the dark when the water boils. There are many variations of colors and their combinations.

For example, there is an option to glow in one color in the off state, and in another color when in the working state. Models like this are rare. Some experts do not recommend choosing electric kettles with a constant glow, claiming that this tires the eyes and causes irritation.

Otherwise, this indicator should be approached from the point of view of one’s own aesthetic preferences, and not rational ones.

Pros and cons of an open spiral kettle

Since the heating element is located in the kettle itself, it is constantly in the water. Due to this, heating occurs faster, but maintaining this model is much more difficult: scale quickly forms on the coil, which must be removed correctly. Read about how to deal with scale here.

An open coil heats the water faster.

It is very important to monitor the water level in the electric kettle: if the spiral is not completely immersed, the spiral can burn, and if you use a plastic kettle, it can even cause a fire.

As already mentioned, the heating time for such kettles is very short - depending on the volume of the tank and the power of the device, it can range from 2 to 9 minutes.

The noise level varies depending on the model, but many reviews note that these kettles are much quieter than those with a hidden heating element.

Please note that their service life rarely exceeds three years - due to the fact that you are constantly mechanically acting on the spiral, trying to clean it.

In general, such kettles can be safely recommended to those who do not boil water several times a day or for use in the countryside.

TEA MAKERS AND TEA SETS

An alternative to teapots with an infuser can be tea makers; they automatically prepare tea of the desired strength. Structurally, these devices are similar to drip coffee makers: they consist of two vessels located one above the other and a kettle.

Water is poured into the upper container; tea leaves should be placed on the sieve in the lower container. The water in the upper tank boils, the steam pressure forces it into the lower vessel, and it passes through a filter with tea leaves. The timer allows you to set the brewing time; after its completion, the finished tea is poured into the lower glass teapot, which must be heated on the stove. Some models have auto-shut-off and anti-drip functions. The well-promoted brands we are used to almost never produce tea makers, and in general there are few such devices on the Russian market.

Automatic, long-term heat retention.

It only makes tea (the kettle is more versatile: you can brew coffee and cocoa).

But another type of tea maker, which is something between a thermopot and a samovar, is quite popular. The teapot is located above the main kettle or tank with a water spout, for example, as in the BEKO BKK-2111 P and BKK-2111 C models. The volume of the boiling water tank is larger than that of a kettle, but less than that of a thermopot: 2.5 liters, and the teapot, which is heated at the top of the structure on a special tile, is designed for 900 and 1200 ml.

There are also large electric samovars, for example, ELIS EL-4016, and similar models with a capacity of 4 liters and a power of about 2000 W. The set of samovars includes liter teapots, the function of maintaining heat makes samovars similar to thermopots, and their interesting design makes them desirable for many families.

A power of 1800-2000 W allows a large volume of water to boil 3-4 times faster than in a thermopot, where the power is usually no more than 750 W.

There is no possibility of cordless use; a ceramic or glass teapot requires careful handling.

Tea sets consist of two teapots - a regular one and an infuser, and a base on which a contact group and a stand for heating a small teapot are located. The functionality of the set can be anything: maintaining heat, adjusting temperature, etc. Such sets do not have any particular disadvantages, except that they take up more space than simple teapots.

Pros and cons of a kettle with a hidden spiral

Due to the fact that the heating element does not come into contact with water, the service life of the kettle is noticeably longer - you can count on a minimum of five to seven years.

In addition, this makes it much more hygienic: it is easier to clean a kettle with a flat surface than a complex-shaped spiral. This means that after cleaning there is practically no scale left in it.

The hidden spiral is a more modern solution.

And practically no special care is required: it is enough to periodically boil the kettle with citric acid or a special product, and then rinse it.

Kettles with a hidden spiral are characterized by increased safety: they do not turn on if there is not enough water in the tank. However, even outdated models without this option are safer than kettles with an open spiral - the main thing is that there is at least one cup of water so that it completely covers the bottom. Thus, fire or short circuit is practically excluded.

The volume varies from two to seven liters, depending on the model. However, they also have a significant drawback: such kettles most often provide a high noise level. And the price for them is noticeably higher than for models with an open spiral.

Kitfort KT-601

Another kettle in the same category is Kitfort KT-601. Its difference is a glass flask. One of the significant advantages that not all teapots have is the ability to brew tea. This kettle will easily take the prize in the “Best Electric Glass Kettles” category.

There are control buttons on the stand. Please note that the filter is not removable. There are heating options and, surprisingly for many, the tea strainer is very convenient.

Thermopot: better or worse than an electric kettle?

The ability to maintain the temperature at a given level for a long time is an undeniable advantage of a thermopot over conventional ones.

If you like to drink tea or coffee all the time, have a large family or often have guests, a thermopot can be an excellent choice. In addition, they have more capacity - from three to five liters.

Thermopot is the choice for large families or partygoers.

However, keep in mind that even the most economical model consumes more electricity than a simple electric kettle due to the fact that it operates for several hours.

If you decide to purchase a thermopot, choose models where the maintained temperature can be set manually - this is more convenient than those where it is initially fixed at one level.

In addition, monitor the quality of the water - if it is too hard or contains impurities, the thermopot will quickly fail.

Electric kettles with thermostat

Distinctive features and advantages of models with a thermostat:

the ability to heat the liquid to a set temperature or within a specified range;
automatic switching on of the device for heating water to the specified limit.

The disadvantage of such a device is the need to turn it off. Unlike an ordinary thermostat, the thermostat will constantly turn on the device. In some cases, this is uneconomical and therefore impractical.

Constant operation of the device leads to relatively rapid breakdown, which leads to additional costs for repairs.

The following tips will help you choose the right adjustable electric kettle:

Decide on the preferred material and the volume of the electric kettle model.
Familiarize yourself with the power of the device, the boiling and cooling time of the heated liquid.
Evaluate the length of the wire, the convenience of the handle and the method of pouring liquid inside.
Decide on the mechanism for setting the required mode and adjusting it - this could be a display on a stand or an ordinary toggle switch on the case.

There are two types of adjustment - stepwise and stepless. The first option involves accurately setting the temperature, the second - with an error of 10 °C.

Choosing an electric kettle by power

The assortment of household appliances stores provides a wide range of choice of kettles based on power consumption - from 0.7 to 3 Watts. Which one should you prefer? Let's figure it out now.

Many people mistakenly believe that the higher the power, the better the kettle. However, this is not entirely fair.

Size is not an indicator of how powerful a kettle is.

On the one hand, a powerful device actually heats up faster. On the other hand, it places an additional load on the network and adds a significant amount to electricity bills.

Is water heated a minute earlier worth the burnt-out wiring and an extra five hundred rubles a month? We are not sure. And powerful models usually cost much more.

From the point of view of experts, it is necessary to give preference to a kettle of medium power - one and a half to two watts. This way you won’t have to wait 10-15 minutes for hot water, but the load on the network will also be optimal.

Bosch TWK7607

Simple teapots for daily use. These are often taken for use at work or in temporary living space. They do not have complex functions, and the design is as simple as possible. The main thing is that it works properly and boils water well. An excellent option is Bosch TWK7607.

The kettle is completely plastic. The filter is removable. There are no additional functions.

Note!

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How to choose the size of the kettle

As with power, the principle “more is better” is not entirely true here. If you have a family of two or three people, why should you buy a seven-liter kettle?

Most likely, you will simply overpay for electricity. And taking into account the fact that it is not recommended to boil water again, there is also a need for water supply. Well, or harm your health, which is even more undesirable. In addition, capacious units take up quite a lot of space in the kitchen.

For a small family, a one and a half to two liter kettle is enough. Do you have a lot of household members or do guests come often? Here it makes sense to think about a kettle with increased capacity. Just count how much hot water you use at a time and go from there.

Number of bottom layers

The more layers of the bottom there are in the kettle, the more uniform and faster the heating of the water. A kettle with a multi-layer bottom retains the temperature of heated water longer. In addition, such kettles can be used on various stoves: electric, gas, induction, halogen, glass-ceramic.

There are models with both 2 and 3-4 layers. Most often there are teapots with a three-layer capsule bottom (stainless steel-aluminum-stainless steel).

Important: if the kettle will be used for induction cookers, its bottom must be perfectly smooth so as not to scratch the hob.

Stand shape

Many people do not pay attention to this parameter, but it should also be taken into account - the ease of use of the kettle depends on it.

The classic stand is a simple panel on which the kettle is placed in a standard position. This may not always be convenient, especially if you have a small kitchen or an injured right hand. Therefore, it is worth considering such models only from the point of view of accessibility - they are cheaper than the so-called Pirouette.

It got its name because the kettle can easily be rotated in any direction on its round base. Thus, you can turn the handle as convenient for you - in any direction.

Without a doubt, the second type is much more comfortable in everyday life - however, such electric kettles are a little more expensive.

Criterias of choice

Having decided what you need a kettle for and what material it will be made of, do not rush to purchase. Before choosing, take into account a number of parameters that can affect the quality of the device.

Power

There is a misconception that the best electric kettle is the one with more power. In fact, the most powerful models heat water only 3-5 minutes faster, but consume a large amount of electricity. Opt for a device with an average power of 1.5-2 kW, so you will reduce the load on the network, save a small part of the family budget, and you will wait just a few minutes longer for boiling water.

Capacity

The range of kettles includes models with volumes from 0.5 to 5 liters. It all depends on your needs. A family of 2 or 3 people should not spend money on an expensive large-volume model. 1.5-2 liters of boiling water will be enough for the whole family to drink tea. If you have a large family and often have guests in the house, consider purchasing a larger model.

Material

In this criterion, everything depends on your taste and financial capabilities. The budget model can be chosen with a plastic or metal body. More expensive teapots are made of ceramic or glass.

A heating element

Models with an open spiral have practically gone out of use. An increasing number of people prefer disc kettles as they are easier to care for and are safe to use.

Stand type

In the range of electric kettles you will find models with 2 types of stands:

classic, with the kettle fixed on the contact in one position;
“pirouette”, with free fixation on the electrical contact in the center.

From the point of view of comfort, the round “pirouette” panel is much more convenient, since you do not need to point the device strictly at the contact, and the handle can be turned in any direction.

Filter material

The filter serves for additional water purification. Requires careful treatment and care. You can find electric kettles with filters from:

nylon thread (the most common and affordable option);
metal wire (a better quality filter, but rare);
gold-plated wire (it is believed to have a beneficial effect on the taste of water).

Basically, the filter is installed on the spout of the kettle. There are models equipped with an additional mesh in the neck.

Additional functions

The additional functionality of an electric kettle most often benefits consumers, but also affects the final cost of the device. You may encounter a device with the following functions:

Long boil. The device does not turn off immediately after the water boils and continues to work for a certain time, ridding the boiling water of harmful microorganisms and chlorine molecules.
Timer. The kettle will be able to turn on without your presence, just set the desired water boiling time in advance.
Sound signal. The device will notify you when the water is boiling with a special sound.
Thermostat. Water can be heated to a certain temperature or kept hot for a certain time.
Heating protection without water.
Smooth opening of the lid using a button.

Weight

The weight of the device is very important if the kettle will be used by children or elderly people. Lighter devices are made of plastic, heavier ones are made of glass, metal or ceramics. It is recommended to choose a lighter model so that the electric kettle is comfortable to use and does not need to be dropped. However, do not forget that lightweight plastic models may be of dubious quality.

Design solution

Electric kettles are available in a wide variety of shapes and designs. You can choose a device that will fit into any interior. However, do not forget about convenience. Small details such as a lid lock and a comfortable handle will simplify and secure the operation of the device.

Reliability

Always check the product before purchasing. Pay attention to the quality of soldering of parts, the absence of exposed parts of the wire and the tightness of the water tank. Electric kettles made of metal are considered the most reliable; they are less fragile, and even with a sharp or strong impact they can only get away with a dent.

Cost of an electric kettle

The prices for electric kettles vary greatly. In the assortment of household appliances, you can find a simple kettle costing 200–300 rubles or a device equipped with all possible functions for several tens of thousands. It is recommended to decide on the material of the device body, and then build on preferences only in the selected segment. If you have chosen a kettle from:

Plastic:

for a device with an open spiral you will pay from 200 to 2000 rubles;
the disk one will cost a little more - from 300 to 8500 rubles;
equipped with a thermostat will cost from 2000 to 7500 rubles;
for a teapot, the price varies from 3,000 to 8,000 rubles;
A “smart” device with remote control is available in a variety of prices from 1,000 to 38,000 rubles.

Metal:

with an open spiral cost from 700 rubles;
disk - from 400 to 19000;
with temperature controller - from 2,000 to 12,000 rubles;
teapot - from 800 to 6500 rubles;
a smart kettle will cost up to 55,000 rubles.

Ceramics:

disk - from 900 to 6000 rubles;
with thermostat - from 1500 to 6000 rubles.

Glass:

with a closed heating element - from 800 to 15,000 rubles;
with additional functions - from 2,000 to 12,000 rubles.

High-tech technology: modern features of electric kettles

Many manufacturers of electric kettles now offer a real technical miracle instead of ordinary heating devices.

Some teapots look like mysterious space devices.

Let's see what additional options there are and at the same time decide whether they are needed:

An adjustable thermostat in an electric kettle allows you to set the water heating temperature down to one tenth of a degree. On the one hand, this is convenient - you don’t have to boil the water if you just need to heat it up. On the other hand, you will overpay at least two to three thousand rubles for the option. Is it really worth it to not have to wait an extra 10 minutes for the water in your cup to cool?
The extra boil function kills germs and bacteria, ensuring clean water. It makes sense to buy such kettles for those who live in a house with an old pipeline and pour water from the tap. If the communications are new or you use bottled water, you can do without this option.
Teapots with lighting or various hologram effects
look very impressive. Of course, they have no practical use, but they can become a real decoration for a high-tech kitchen.
A smart kettle that can brew coffee and tea. It seems to be a useful thing - one device for the price of two, with an additional option for brewing tea. On the other hand... Now the cheapest model costs 27 thousand rubles. Maybe it’s easier to buy a teapot, a coffee maker and a regular kettle?
A kettle with remote control using a smartphone can be turned on from a distance. If you live alone and come home in cold weather, it's nice to have hot water waiting for you. However, reviews say that usually, after playing with a smart model in the first week, everyone conveniently forgets about this opportunity.

Caso WK 2200

There are a lot of such teapots. However, even a simple modern person without basic options that simplify life is unlikely to be very happy to use such a kettle. Therefore, a good option would be Caso WK 2200. The kettle has a stylish and simple design. He's elegant. The kettle is easy to use.

The flask is steel, the outside is plastic and stainless steel. There are control buttons on the stand. The filter is removable. There are all the basic options, for example, indication of the current temperature of the kettle and the possibility of necessary heating.

General recommendations for choosing an electric kettle

So, you have roughly decided which model and with what characteristics you need. All that remains is to choose the right kettle.

The ideal teapot is for everyone.

With our recommendations, you can easily do this:

Pay attention to the manufacturer. It is impossible to answer unequivocally which manufacturer of electric kettles is better: everyone can have their own opinion. However, you should not buy products from a company unknown to anyone, trying to save money - most likely you will get a not very high-quality kettle. Even among giants like Samsung, Bosch, Electrolux you can find quite affordable models.
Always check the build quality of the kettle you choose. It is important to evaluate the quality of soldering joints, the tightness of the container, and the insulation of the wire. If you overlook even one factor, the kettle cannot be considered safe. At the same time, it’s worth checking even models from well-known brands - there is always a risk of an accidental error during manufacturing. In addition, in this way you will definitely exclude counterfeiting.
Do not buy equipment without a warranty card. It will either be a cheap replica of the original, or fraud on the part of the store. In both cases, it is better to refuse the purchase.
Be sure to read reviews of electric kettles . In addition, check out our rating - the best models of 2022 are collected there.

We are sure that with these tips you will buy the perfect kettle for your family!

Xiaomi Smart Kettle

A minimalistic but absolutely stylish copy is the Xiaomi Smart Kettle. It can also be called smart, because you can regulate the temperature and heating via your phone, but it is impossible to turn it on and off remotely.

The kettle has a steel flask and a plastic body; it does not have a scale filter. Knows how to heat water at a good pace.