![Breville Bold Vanilla Cream Electric Kettle | 1.7L | 3kW Fast Boil | Cream & Silver Chrome [VKT223]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/31R7iI6OppL._SL160_.jpg)
Buying Guide
How to Buy an Electric Kettle
A short, practical guide to buying an electric kettle that helps you pick the right capacity, material and features quickly. This covers what to check, the common types available, where to buy and quick expert tips so you can act fast.
Key factors to consider
Capacity and use - Choose a size that matches your household. 1.7L to 1.8L is common for families; 1.0L or smaller suits single users.
Power and boil speed - Look for wattage between about 2,500W and 3,000W for fast boiling. Higher watts boil quicker but use more mains power.
Material and build - Options are stainless steel, glass (ideally borosilicate) or plastic. Glass looks modern but check for borosilicate for better heat resistance. Stainless steel is durable and quieter.
Safety and convenience - Must-have features: auto shut-off, boil-dry protection, 360 degree cordless base and clear water level indicator. Removable limescale filter and a one-touch lid improve everyday use.
Power and boil speed - Look for wattage between about 2,500W and 3,000W for fast boiling. Higher watts boil quicker but use more mains power.
Material and build - Options are stainless steel, glass (ideally borosilicate) or plastic. Glass looks modern but check for borosilicate for better heat resistance. Stainless steel is durable and quieter.
Safety and convenience - Must-have features: auto shut-off, boil-dry protection, 360 degree cordless base and clear water level indicator. Removable limescale filter and a one-touch lid improve everyday use.
Types available and important features
- Basic budget kettles - Simple stainless or plastic units, usually lower price and fewer bells and whistles.
- Fast-boil kettles - Higher wattage models that deliver a cup in under a minute for smaller fills.
- Glass/LED kettles - Stylish with illuminated rings or indicators; choose borosilicate glass for durability.
- Quiet-boil models - Designed to reduce noise for open-plan homes.
- Fill markings and rapid-boil zones so you only boil what you need.
- Removable and washable limescale filter to keep flavour clean in hard water areas.
- Removable lid or wide opening for easy cleaning.
- Cord storage in the base to keep the worktop tidy.
- BPA-free interiors if choosing plastic components.
Where to buy and mistakes to avoid
Online buying - Good for price comparison, reading many reviews and doorstep delivery. Check seller reputation, warranty terms and delivery times.
High-street buying - Useful to test weight, lid action and pouring feel before purchase; take note of model name to compare prices online.
Common mistakes to avoid:
High-street buying - Useful to test weight, lid action and pouring feel before purchase; take note of model name to compare prices online.
Common mistakes to avoid:
- Choosing on looks alone and ignoring wattage, safety features or filter quality.
- Buying a kettle that is too large for daily needs - it wastes energy if you habitually boil more than required.
- Overlooking whether the glass is ordinary or borosilicate glass.
- Not checking return policy or warranty length.
Expert tips and quick recommendations
Quick checklist before you buy:
- Capacity: 1.7L is a versatile family size.
- Power: aim for 2,500-3,000W for fast boils.
- Features: removable limescale filter, auto shut-off, one-touch lid and 360 degree base.
- Material: choose stainless steel for durability or borosilicate glass for aesthetics and thermal shock resistance.
- Descale regularly using citric acid or white vinegar to preserve element efficiency and flavour.
- Fill only what you need to save energy and time.
- Check the washable filter and clean it monthly in hard water areas.
Final Thoughts
Choose a kettle that matches how you use hot water: for most households a 1.7L, 2,500-3,000W kettle with a removable limescale filter, one-touch lid and cord storage hits the sweet spot. Compare specs and reviews online, or test the feel in-store, then buy the model that offers the safest, easiest-to-clean features for your routine.
