How to choose an electric kettle
A kettle is used several times a day, so small differences add up. These are the things worth checking.
1. Capacity
1.5 to 1.7 litres suits most homes. Smaller travel or compact kettles (around 0.8–1 litre) suit small kitchens and one-person households.
2. Temperature control
Green tea, coffee and baby formula are best made below boiling. A variable-temperature kettle lets you pick, for example, 70°C, 80°C or 90°C, and many have a keep-warm setting.
3. Speed and power
Most UK kettles are around 3,000 watts. Boiling only the water you need saves more time and energy than chasing the fastest model.
4. Easy to live with
- A clear water window with cup markings.
- A removable limescale filter, useful in hard-water areas.
- A 360° base, so left- and right-handed people can use it easily.
- A lid that opens wide enough to clean inside.
5. Style
Stainless steel, glass and retro designs all work well. Many brands make matching toasters if you want a coordinated worktop.
See our picks in Kitchen & Dining.