Thoughts on Smeg's Electric Kettle

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For those who've used Smeg's Electric Kettle, please share your experiences with it. How fast does it boil water? Any problems down the road? Is it worth purchasing even though I have a stovetop kettle?

aaron
1 year ago

I’m a huge fan of Smeg, and I’ve been eyeing their small appliances every time I was at Williams-Sonoma or Crate and Barrel. I could not justify getting a $150 electric kettle when I already own one that I’ve had since college. But, mine was frequently getting disconnected from power in the middle of boiling, so it was time for a new one.

The time couldn’t have been more perfect because Smeg updated the kettle, and the new model has the 3D SMEG logo. I read some reviews on the older model, and a lot of reviewers were complaining about the logo peeling off! The newer model is $10 extra, but I was okay with that as the 3D logo is much more durable and prettier.

The color I wanted (Cream) was on backorder, so I got the kettle delivered. I almost screamed in horror when I opened the package and discovered a pastel blue box, mistakenly thinking that they sent the wrong color. But it was just the box, and they indeed sent the right one. I got a beautiful cream-colored work of art!

The kettle has an auto shut-off function when water is not detected or has reached the desired temperature (212 Fahrenheit) to avoid spoilage or electric shock. It’s so much better than a traditional kettle’s whistle. I love the round, simple control knob and the lid that opens fully and automatically. The lid stays open so I can see and clean the inside thoroughly.

Given the nature of the appliance, it is hand wash only. And to avoid the possibility of electric shock, Smeg recommends thoroughly drying the kettle (especially the outer body and base where it gets direct contact with the electricity) before use.

Such an Instagram-worthy kitchen appliance. Love it.

Variable Temperature Kettle
Brand: Smeg
112
Helen Reid
1 year ago

When it comes to boiling water, I’m impatient. Waiting for a pot full of water to boil for the pasta dinner when I’m exhausted and starving is just not fun. Naturally, electric kettles are a lifesaver and a staple in my kitchen. I’ve splurged on the Variable Temperature Electric Kettle, and the dinner prep time has reduced dramatically.

I picked one up at Bloomingdale’s, and all Smeg appliances come in sky-blue boxes. I wanted the Cream color, and when the salesperson was bringing out a sizable pastel blue box, I was like, “Not the blue!!”. So don’t be alarmed when you get a blue box, if you’re ordering one online. The kettle is sturdy and pretty substantial in weight (3.5 lbs). It holds a lot of water as well, so if the kettle is full, it gets heavy. Since it’s going to be left out on the kitchen counter, it wasn’t a deal breaker for me.

Aside from the classic, vintage design, I liked how many parts of the kettle were in stainless steel. The removable limescale filter and spout that get direct contact with boiling water are stainless steel.

What really set this kettle apart from other options was the various temperature settings. You get 7 temperature settings from lukewarm to boiling water. I use the warmer temperature for brewing various teas and the hot water for hot cocoa and pasta. The kettle maintains the temperature for 20 minutes, which is another plus.

The kettle is easy to use and does not take up much counter space. I can get boiling water (or warmer water) at the touch of a button much faster than from the stovetop. Combined with the timeless, classic design, the Variable Temperature Kettle is a functional kitchen gadget every household needs.

Electric Kettle
Brand: Smeg
89