(Part 3) Best kettles according to redditors

Buy yourself a nice kettle.

I have this bad boy.

This one is also good and cheaper.

Need hot water for oatmeal, coffee, tea, noodles, etc? Done in a couple of minutes.

I don't know how I lived without one of these for so long.

Love this one, adjustable temperature is key.

I think its largely going to depend on what you want out of the kettle.

Any kettle with temp control would be ideal. You want to look at your price vs. use and see if one with a digital exact temp will be preferable to one with predetermined settings.

Gooseneck kettles are lovely and provide a very steady and controlled pour so finding one that allows this is beneficial but often costs a lot more.

I am currently using this one: https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B019J0A092/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_lgo7BbGV0DHER

It has a hold feature so my water stays at temp for 2 hours which is great as I tend to start water, get distracted, and then remember I wanted to make tea! Plus it's good for longer sessions with tea that needs steeped many times and I can have water at the perfect temperature instead of steadily cooling.

However this is the kettle I actually wanted: https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B005YR0F40/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_xoo7BbFWKM023

I think there might be a better version of this now or an alternative that is better since I have been happy with my less fancy version and cant afford the nicer one I haven't looked into it!

Good luck!

I did a lot of comparison shopping, and I believe that hands-down Zojirushi (Japanese houseware/kitchen gadget company) makes the best tea kettles in the world. The downside, of course, is that they are really expensive.

Instead I opted for one of these Rosewill brand kettles, which is basically a complete knock-off of a similar Zojirushi model that costs about 3x as much.

I've had it for two years of near-daily usage and it has been rock solid. Never had a problem or complaint about it. Solidly built and reliable, does exactly what is says it should. It is much quieter than any other kettle I've seen and because it is a vacuum kettle it holds heat for literally days on end without needing to ramp up and reheat the water. I refill it with 4L of water once or twice a week and that is the only time it ever turns on and still maintains constant temp 24/7. It only needs to reboil if I haven't used for at least a few days, in comparison the Cusinart perfectemp only has a 30-min keep warm function--it has slightly more precise temp controls but it doesn't hold a consistent temp nearly as well by a large margin.


I've been extremely happy with it, and I think the design is far far superior to the Hamilton Beach and Cuisinart models that others are recommending--less fuss and holds consistent temp longer. I really love the electric pump style dispenser instead of the old-school pitcher design. It is easier to use and less messy and can easily fit underneath or on a shelf.

My only quibble (and it is a minor one) is that there are not enough temperature pre-sets. It only has 140F (60C), 175F (80C), and 208F (98C). Those are adequate for 95% of my demands, but I'd like a little bit more precise control in the 160F-190F range for a variety of different teas. Unfortunately, anything with more precise controls costs more than twice as much.

I've got a Hamilton Beach one and it just collects dust on a shelf since I got the Rosewill. The Hamilton Beach is loud and doesn't hold a consistent temp for very long and I seen to spill a lot more water with it.

I have this one and like it quite a bit. I chose it as it seemed to be the sturdiest in the store. It also has everything you listed, with a nice push-button slow-opening lid mechanism.

Pino Digital Kettle Pro -- best digital kettle I could find that had an all stainless steel kettle. You put in a temperature and it heats the water to that temperature (no 3 settings -- any temperature you want). The kettle also is entirely stainless steal, which won't mess your tea up by having plastic flavor from the teakettle.

Apart from that I have a nice gaiwan and a ceramic teapot, and a bunch of yixing and cast iron teapots for steeping that I use depending on the tea and my mood.

It gets cold and rainy in Oregon, I've heard good things about this blanket:
https://www.amazon.com/American-Blanket-Company-Luxurious-Cranberry/dp/B07F9BMVBB/ref=sr_1_1?crid=32WVM9UZ994H3&keywords=luster%2Bloft%2Bfleece%2Bblanket&qid=1567876272&s=gateway&sprefix=luster%2Bloft%2B%2Caps%2C262&sr=8-1&th=1

Always gotta stay hydrated, give it a twist:
https://www.amazon.com/Infuser-Bottle-Anti-slip-Recipes-Cleaning/dp/B01MZADUO9/ref=sr_1_4?crid=3UU69JAR47DCT&keywords=fruit+infuser+water+bottle&qid=1567875754&s=gateway&smid=A1AWXNIDJ2RJ0G&sprefix=fruit+infuster%2Caps%2C232&sr=8-4

I think girls like bath bombs? Idk, I'm a dude:
https://www.amazon.com/LifeAround2Angels-Moisturize-Handmade-Birthday-girlfriend/dp/B01MFGN8S5/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?keywords=bath+bomb&qid=1568254213&sr=8-1-spons&psc=1&spLa=ZW5jcnlwdGVkUXVhbGlmaWVyPUFMQU5SNTRVSTk4V1gmZW5jcnlwdGVkSWQ9QTA3NTYwNTlPMzM4MUk2R1FGMDUmZW5jcnlwdGVkQWRJZD1BMDE4NTc2MDNEOUdVNE5FVVpWWjEmd2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9hdGYmYWN0aW9uPWNsaWNrUmVkaXJlY3QmZG9Ob3RMb2dDbGljaz10cnVl

Personal sized blender for smoothies or protein shakes:
https://www.amazon.com/Ninja-Personal-Smoothies-Blending-700-Watt/dp/B01FHOWYA2/ref=sr_1_4?keywords=ninja+blender&qid=1567957122&s=gateway&sr=8-4

Greatest pens on the planet, must have for a teacher:
https://www.amazon.com/Pilot-Retractable-Premium-Roller-31020/dp/B001GAOTSW/ref=zg_bs_office-products_13?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=346XHW689KVBNT4ZP6Q6

Never mismatch tuperware lids again with reusable ziplok bags! Perfect for a teacher's lunch:
https://www.amazon.com/Wattne-Reusable-Sandwich-Material-Toiletries/dp/B07T4NPV41/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?crid=IZVGPUIFA20B&keywords=reusable+ziploc+bags&qid=1567875239&s=gateway&sprefix=reusable+zi%2Caps%2C252&sr=8-1-spons&psc=1&spLa=ZW5jcnlwdGVkUXVhbGlmaWVyPUEyMllWVU9TMVBUVTRJJmVuY3J5cHRlZElkPUEwNTY2Mzc1MkQ3QlNMQ1E5M0Q3QiZlbmNyeXB0ZWRBZElkPUEwMjg5NDg0M0ZOOVA1WUo0TE1CRiZ3aWRnZXROYW1lPXNwX2F0ZiZhY3Rpb249Y2xpY2tSZWRpcmVjdCZkb05vdExvZ0NsaWNrPXRydWU=

If she's a tea or coffee drinker:
https://www.amazon.com/AmazonBasics-Stainless-Steel-Electric-Kettle/dp/B072DWYBL7/ref=sxin_3_ac_d_rm?ac_md=0-0-d2F0ZXIgYm9pbGVy-ac_d_rm&keywords=water+boiler&pd_rd_i=B072DWYBL7&pd_rd_r=82445bc3-1356-425b-9c9a-74b33aedcd4f&pd_rd_w=dKQFd&pd_rd_wg=x3oY0&pf_rd_p=404c4843-2c96-4d0d-a5fe-2b0598693e61&pf_rd_r=FECY2A01DTHMTKSKSVDX&qid=1567875726&s=gateway

Good luck dude! Long distance is tough, keep it up.

For a goose-neck kettle I recommend the Bonavita 1.7L Digital Variable Temperature Gooseneck Kettle BV382518V. If you don't care about it being goose-neck I have a Hamilton Beach that has lasted awhile now. Don't think they make it anymore but I think the brand is good. Hamilton Beach 40880 Stainless Steel Electric Kettle, 1.7-Liter $23.08. Fount this one Hamilton Beach 40996 Programmable Kettle, 1.7-Liter $29.99. I cannot speak for other brands. I just know that Hamilton Beach is over 5 years old and did not cost that much.

Here you go!

I don't own one, and like many of the people here I think the Bonavita is the way to go. However I can't help wanting one of these larger water heaters from this Japanese appliance company Zojirushi. It reminds me of the big water taps you see in cafes that do pourovers. Pair it with a non electric gooseneck kettle and you're good to go. I think having it implies you are making a ton of coffee so it probably doesn't make sense, but I can't shake the idea haha.

It's sold under the Krups brand name in the US. After using the dial to set temperature on the Oxo kettles I don't think I can go back to buttons. The 200F maximum is kind of absurd, though. Why would you spend that much on a kettle that can't boil water?

I have been using this Cuisinart PerfectTemp electric kettle for ~5 years and it works great everyday.

https://www.amazon.com/Cuisinart-CPK-17AMZ-Cordless-Programmable-Stainless/dp/B06XF97BTH

Breville Electric Kettle


If you don't have an electric kettle, you should.

Edit: messed up the link

I use a Supentown 5L, which works extremely well and is sufficient for two tea addicts. Other than that, Rosewill is another good brand (at least for tech stuff).

Panasonic, Aroma, and Tiger are also reliable brands.

You could try thrift shops near Asian communities and colleges if you feel lucky.

Gourmia GK320 Travel Foldable Electric Kettle - Dual Voltage - Food Grade Silicone, Collapses for Easy & Convenient Storage, Boil Dry Protection, .6 Quart - Black https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01M6BS2EI/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_3vFvDbPM2M7WG

No idea what's best, but here's the ones I've owned. I tend to avoid ones that have plastic bits touching water:

• This is my work kettle. You can select a temperature, but it doesn't hold at a temp: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B019J0A092
  
• This is my home kettle. I like this one a lot because it can hold at a specific temperature: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005YR0F40
  
• If you are concerned about plastic bits touching your water, there are some ceramic kettles: https://www.amazon.com/Ceramic-Tea-Kettle-Temperature-Presets/dp/B06XGQ9SB1 and https://www.amazon.com/Electric-Ceramic-Kettle-detachable-protection/dp/B00C4Z8O1G
  
  I have the ceramic bella, I don't use it much, but it holds a lot more water than my other units. It's a pain to fill with how my water spout off of my fridge (filtered water) is designed because it has a has a wider brim. I do not have the temperature adjustable ceramic, that was just a random Amazon result that looks good that I threw in.
  

I don't own it, but I've seen this one in action. It folds up https://www.amazon.com/Gourmia-Travel-Foldable-Electric-Kettle/dp/B01M6BS2EI/

https://www.amazon.com/Bonavita-Voltage-Electric-heating-element/dp/B00X0CH1TI/ is another option I know people like.

I've never seen a variable temp smaller than 1liter.

1L Hario Buono Kettle is on sale at Amazon for $30.45

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B008L3R8BM/ref=twister_B00NQXBQKQ?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1

> With an electric kettle it would take 20-30 mins guaranteed.

That's rather different to answers to this question on an example Amazon review of a US 1.7L electric kettle here.

>how long does it take to boil?
>Answer:
If I remember correctly, a full pot of cold water takes no more than 5 minutes.
By Larry Dee on November 14, 2016
I timed it twice...The first time it boiled in 4:37 , the second time, 4:45.....each time using a full pot (to the full line).
By Angie on March 12, 2017
1.7 lt of cold water - took 7 minutes
By mari on December 20, 2016
I'd say 3-5 minutes
By dancemom on November 14, 2016
just a few minutes, depending on how much water is in there, less than 5 minutes for a liter
By Laura Mendley on November 14, 2016
Approximately one minute.
By Mary on November 14, 2016
Did not actually check the minutes to reach boiling point, but it is really quick. I find it very good and fast. It's a keeper with daily uses. Love it


Clearly those kind of answers not the ultimate in scientific tests, but...

The most important thing is making sure the water isn't too hot since it destroys the antioxidants and makes the tea bitter. I got a cheap electic kettle from Amazon a few weeks ago and the difference is night and day.

For tea bags I use Smith Tea since I find they have incredible flavor. I use each other their tea bags for 2 or 3 infusions depending on the type, and follow the package instructions for water temp/brewing time. I did try Mighty Leaf but found the flavor kind of flat and weak.

For loose tea I use either Rishi or Tao of Tea and brew it up in a small French press since it allows the leafs plenty of room to expand and I had it on hand anyway. Again, I follow packaging instructions for water temp/brew time.

There are plenty, you can just Google it, but they tend not to be the cheapest possible options. Then again, I agree with what's been said--save up a bit and buy a stainless kettle; the plastic ones are nasty.

-PINO

-Jura-Capresso

-Kalorik

-Adagio

-Melitta

Unless everything is not shown in the image, I'll say that I got all of that stuff, minus the pot, for about $100. That makes the pot itself come in at $299, which is a bit pricey.

I mean, I believe this kit has everything there (except the pot), shipped, for less than $100

http://www.amazon.com/Brewers-Best-Beer-Brewing-Equipment/dp/B006J336US

And then you can get a 10 gallon SS pot, with fittings, for about $220.

http://www.amazon.com/Bayou-Classic-Gallon-Stainless-Kettle/dp/B009SKU4PE

Of course, if I were to get stuff together for all-grain (which I have) I would also get an insulated cooler for a mash tun, rather than rely on the kettle itself. Those run about $100-$150.

If you have Amazon prime? Or I'd search "pouring kettle" maybe?

Hario V60 Buono Pouring Kettle (1L) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B008L3R8BM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_eS3QzbYN7A745

Even though we aren't huge on kettles here in the US, we do have kettles.

I've had this little guy for more than 10 years, and it heats up very quickly. My cousin has this incredibly fancy thing and it is fancy af.

Much cheaper and simpler than hiring an electrician to do all of that stuff.

I use this electric kettle every day and it works great.

I went with the Brewista SmartPour Variable Digital Kettle instead of the bonavita because it was slightly larger (1.2L) and should heat up slightly faster(1200 watts vs 1000 watts). The only issue i have notice is that the timer would randomly reset, after a few times i went back to my old timer. I have not tested the auto-start or auto-off features.

"I assure you that I have no knowledge of such a thing" said the expat as he poured water from his 3KW kettle into a teacup. . .

it's sold in the US under the Krups brand. On sale on amazon rn https://www.amazon.com/Krups-BW760D51-Gooseneck-Electric-Stainless/dp/B07G2R5BVQ/ref=sr_1_3?keywords=Krupa+kettle&qid=1563253672&s=gateway&sr=8-3

I picked up this one at Target http://www.amazon.com/Oster-BVST-EK5967-NP-Digital-Temperature-1-7-Liter/dp/B00BLR03I0/ref=sr_1_6?s=kitchen&ie=UTF8&qid=1407787207&sr=1-6&keywords=kettle+oster+electric It's been going strong for about 6 months now

Here is one I have. It limits your temperatures to presets though. Also disregard anything in the reviews about an annoying beep. They are from last year. I just recently got this and there is no beep. They must have gotten rid of it. Hope this helps :D

When you remove the kettle is the plate that is left behind hot? If so, it would be a no go. I had an electric kettle like this.

You can buy hot water dispensers in a lot of places in the US. The Japanese ones are higher quality and pricey, but there are alternatives.

http://www.amazon.com/Rosewill-R-HAP-01-Electric-Boiler-Dispenser/dp/B004D00T68/

I typically just wake up, put in 2 scoops into my french press, and pour some hot water. Then leave the cleaning for later in the evening. I'm not going to pretend it's faster or more convenient than an instant cup, but it's certainly not bad. It is most definitely cheaper and I can brew enough for an extra to go if I want.

If you're making 3-5 cups a day, I would recommend a kettle, mostly just to streamline the process. This is the kettle that I'm about to buy. This will also give you more control over your temperature, since green teas usually do best around 170 degrees F. Other than that, definitely look into loose leaf tea. I never had good experiences with green tea bags, probably because I was using much too hot of water and it was bitter. But once I bought some loose leaf tea I really started loving it. I started at adagio.com and I just placed an order at teavivre.com

You don't need much in terms of apparatus. Personally, I would begin with the following. Keep in mind I am only talking about loose leaf tea.

• Something like this to which you add loose leaf tea, water, let it steep, and then push the button down to decant
  
• A digital scale to accurately measure the quantity of dry leaf. Something simple like this will suffice
  
• If you're going to experiment with a variety of tea types (black, green, white, oolong, etc.), I would highly recommend a variable temp kettle. Or at the very least, an immersion thermometer. This will help you accurately measure the temp of water. I have this one
  
  The above combined will set you back <$60. Honestly, you can substitute the Kamjove tea maker with a simple all purpose teapot, eyeball the dry leaf instead of weighing it, and guess the temp of water and do without the variable temp kettle - I personally wouldn't do it for a variety of reasons, but if you're on a budget...
  
  The next step, and the most important one, would be to get your hands on samples of tea. A lot of vendors, incl myself, offer samples. Get small quantities from a variety of vendors so that you have enough tea to experiment with, but not so much that you're stuck with a large quantity of tea you don't like. Once you have sampled enough to determine your likes and dislikes, invest in larger quantities of tea.
  
  Good luck!

That is the one I was looking at, well similar, here

I've noticed people reviewing that the screws rusted within months along with other issues. But since you have had the device for 7 years, it must be reliable.

I like this one a bunch.

Ivation Precision-Temperature Electric Hot Water Tea Kettle Pot 1.7 Liter (7-Cup), 1500 Watt, Stainless Steel Cordless, 6 Preset Variable Heat Settings for Tea, Coffee or Baby Formula https://www.amazon.com/dp/B019J0A092/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_HK65AbK9SF2GA

like /u/cchiker said, it depends on what kind of coffee you want to make. I prefer pour overs and take mine black, so here is my "budget" coffee gear list:

Hand burr grinder $60 - https://www.amazon.ca/Hario-Mini-Mill-Slim-Plus/dp/B01GPMH590/

Hario v60 dripper starter set $30 - https://www.amazon.ca/Hario-V60-Coffee-Starter-Clear/dp/B00JJIOJ7E/

Gooseneck kettle $50 - https://www.amazon.ca/Hario-VKB-100HSV-V60-Coffee-Kettle/dp/B008L3R8BM

1lb of locally roasted single origin beans $20

I have a this Zojirushi water boiler, and it has been working like a charm.

I will say it does give the water a plastic taste, but it doesn't affect the tea to my knowledge. I just lift my gaiwan and press the buttons to dispense water.

Also, if you are getting this, I recommend buying some citric acid. You can get a 5 pound bag on amazon for $10. It's really affordable cause you only use a couple tablespoons at a time, once-twice a month. It rescaled your Zojirushi.

I haven't had many problems with it, but it is especially useful if you don't have time to boil water in the morning.

I have this one from amazon and I love it. Boils fast


AmazonBasics Stainless Steel Electric Kettle - 1-Liter https://www.amazon.com/dp/B072DWYBL7/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_InBvCb8FQ1B3D

A temperature variable electric kettle is the best for tea drinkers. Some tea require more heat than others and a kettle like this

http://www.amazon.com/Bonavita-Variable-Temperature-Electric-Gooseneck/dp/B005YR0F40

or this what I use

http://www.amazon.com/Zojirushi-CD-WBC30-TS-3-Liter-Boiler-Warmer/dp/B00M0GOI0K/ref=sr_1_sc_2?s=home-garden&ie=UTF8&qid=1417855010&sr=1-2-spell&keywords=zoujirushi+water

would make brewing a variety of tea fast and easy.

Amazon carries quite a few Zojirushi models that are cheaper too. Is there a reason you picked this one?

There's this one for around $100 (3L, $116 for 4L) which has 4 instead of 3 temperature options. http://www.amazon.com/Zojirushi-CD-WBC30-Electric-3-Liter-Champagne/dp/B0011528S0

I was thinking about this http://www.amazon.com/dp/B003VOZH4Q/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_ttl?_encoding=UTF8&colid=7AJ022T4E7J2&coliid=I2M528IKCO29EA&psc=1

When you're brewing that much, a large capacity zojirushi might be worth looking into. http://www.amazon.com/Zojirushi-CD-WBC40-4-Liter-Electric-Champagne/dp/B00114Z464

If you go just a little over budget...

• Aeropress $26
  
  
• Kettle with thermometer $28
  
  
• Hario Mini Grinder $32
  
  Total: $86

Do you really have 3100 watt kettles? I think that would burn your house down too.

edit: evidently you do. That seems excessive, but I guess the Brits don't BS about their tea.

edit2: For what it's worth, US sockets can be as high as 20A if wired with proper #12, and will always be a minimum of 15. So that is lower, I suppose. Still, sounds dangerous across the pond.

this kettle collapses down
works great! Bonus points for voltage conversion :)

https://www.amazon.com/Gourmia-Travel-Foldable-Electric-Kettle/dp/B01M6BS2EI/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?ie=UTF8&qid=1522473798&sr=8-1-spons&keywords=TRavel+kettle&psc=1

I dont, but I was browsing amazon for one ( we dont have one, only 5-4oz cup coffee pot) and saw this I absolutely love the portable idea of it.

Can't speak to quality, but found these on Amazon when looking through BF/CM deals
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01LLZJU4Y
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01EPDH8VG/

+1. I've had this one since July 2009, which makes it one of my oldest possessions. It's still going strong!

If you don't mind piecing a solution together...

You're in the "homebrew kettle" (or Mash Tun / MLT) range of volume - there are some with temperature gauges and spigots that will be handy too. Then you can use a keg blanket/insulation/aluminum waterheater wrap to control temp fluctuation.

To keep it warm or warm it up? Options vary. You can set the kettle on a gas/propane powered burner (e.g. turkey fryer burner) or a portable electric heating/burner element (electric is probably better and SAFER at "setting and forgetting").

kettle with thermometer and spigot

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B003VOZH4Q?cache=6935945b6039863732774bbea9e92179&pi=AC_SX110_SY165_QL70&qid=1414982385&sr=8-7#ref=mp_s_a_1_7
This is the one I have. It has the infused built in so I just fill it and plug it in! I generally do black teas because it's easier to get the temperature right and not burn them, but I've seldom met a tea that I don't like

I have this beast: https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B001EHF3OG/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o09_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

It is very, very fast. I was in mainland Europe over summer and the house I was in only had a 1.8kW kettle, it felt so damn slow.

A caution about hotel tap water -- upon check in, give the water a taste to see if it's out of control chlorine-wise. I usually find that hotels have water systems that are overloaded with chlorine either from artifacts from cleaning the treatment system, or possibly from the city water treatment system.

I will usually give the water a test and if I can taste chlorine I will do a quick search for a convenience store nearby to buy a gallon or two of drinking water and water for coffee. The complimentary two bottles is never enough for me for the day.

I also recommend one of these folding kettles available on Amazon. Although the kettle will stop heating when the water has boiled, it will automatically turn itself on again to boil the water if the temperature lowers to a certain point. This would not be so much of a bad thing, but the "on" light remains off when it tries to re-heat the water so you will have to err on the side of caution and just unplug the unit after you boil your water.

> since moving stateside, cups of tea have become long, drawn out affairs

Get this electric kettle, it takes 1 minute to boil @ 110v. They also have a more expensive version that lets you control the temp.

http://amzn.com/B000A790X6

There is also the Brewista although it's a bit more expensive just another option

Do you think it's worth it for the fullpriced ($230) Morebeer Fermonster kit if you have most of the smaller stuff?

I'm at the point in my brewing timeline where I have all of the basics to do partial brews 5gal, w/o a chiller. I'm about to step up to all grain 5gal. I was going to get a 10gal kettle from Amazon for the same price as this full kit. Looking at this kit, and 8.5gal kettle seems sufficient and with all the other goodies I could gift away or store.

At this point, from the kit I only need the kettle and chiller.

• Baratza Encore Conical Burr Coffee Grinder $139
  
• Brewista Smart Pour Variable Temperature Kettle (BKV12S02NA) $90
  
• Hario Coffee Drip Scale/Timer $45
  
• Coffee Gator Stainless Steel Container - Canister with co2 Valve, Scoop, eBook and Travel Jar - Medium, Gray $35
  
  Total: $309. That leaves one to two hundred dollars for brewing equipment.
  

A little one for tea. Right now I have a SunBeam one and I've got kettles at home.
But I'm thinking I might drop a pretty penny or 8 on Rosewill Water boiler because I drink THAT much tea at work. I just don't know if there's a better/cheaper alternative!

Not even UK master race can get quite that much energy from domestic mains power, either. Though I suppose if you can somehow recover a significant part of that energy (after all, you're not actually ejecting a bullet) that would significantly improve both power drain and waste heat.

I have a krups gooseneck electric kettle which has exactly zero plastic on the inside (not even in the lid) which I love. It's the reason I bought it.

edit- also forgot it lets you dial in exact temperatures which is really nice. Here's a link

https://www.amazon.com/Krups-BW760D51-Gooseneck-Electric-Stainless/dp/B07G2R5BVQ/ref=sr_1_3?camp=1789&creative=9325&keywords=krups+electric+gooseneck+kettle&linkCode=qs&qid=1564889647&s=gateway&sr=8-3

I've been looking to buy one, too. It seems that most of the cheaper ones $40 - $70 have several negative reviews mixed in, with some part or other not working after a few uses, though others might rave about them. If you buy a cheap one from a store with a good refund policy, that's not bad since you can just swap for a new one if you get a dud. If you spring for a more expensive $100+ one, I think you may as well just add a few bucks and get one of those japanese electric boilers that will keep your water at a programmable temp and dispense it as well.

Digital Kettle

If you drink a lot of tea, I highly recommend getting a hot water tap installed. Or a hot water botttle - so there's always hot water on tap. Really convenient.

http://www.amazon.com/Zojirushi-CD-WBC30-Electric-3-Liter-Champagne/dp/B0011528S0/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1320274164&sr=8-2

I have the Capresso and I have also never had the smell, but let me give you other reasons to not buy one. First of all, the design of the kettle makes it so that pouring from it means your hands are directly over the steam and it is very easy to burn yourself. Second, it has no thermometer built in. Third, If you ever fill it above the 3 (or 4) cup mark, despite that being well below the 'max' line, you will find that you have hot water pouring out the top of it while it violently boils. Fourth, it is a pain in the ass to clean; I've taken to boiling vinegar/water solutions to do so, but you have to do it nearly every time you use the thing to keep it looking nice and the top is narrow enough to make it hard to clean the inside. Mine, after less than a year, has developed an intermittent leak at the bottom (where the heating element, glass, and silicon gasket come together) that seems to have something to do with temperature; luckily, they designed the plugged in base in such a way that there are drainage holes so that it doesn't screw itself up. Finally, it has no 'keep warm' setting.

What I've switched to was pricier, but I've been much happier with it. I should mention it seems that some people have had problems with theirs, but mine has been at work and has been heavily used for nearly a year now by many people and it hasn't had any problems. The only complaint I have is that if it is empty (or too low) and left on it will continue to heat until it overheats, shuts off, and then makes a constant angry tone until you unplug it and let it cool. They've made some changes to it since I bought mine, maybe this is fixed.

Ah, my impression was that OP was requesting an affordable instant hot water dispenser, like a Zojirushi (thus the request for an affordable one--those are generally more expensive than kettles).

This one is the one I bought. https://www.amazon.com/Ivation-Precision-Temp-Stainless-Keep-Warm-Protection/dp/B019J0A092/ref=cm_cr_arp_d_product_top?ie=UTF8

This: http://www.amazon.com/Zojirushi-CD-WBC40-4-Liter-Electric-Champagne/dp/B00114Z464/ref=sr_1_4?s=home-garden&ie=UTF8&qid=1302529274&sr=1-4 and my Kyusu teapot with the integrated mesh.

I actually ended up getting this one. It has a button to set the temp you want, was cheaper than the other ones. Not bad.

https://www.amazon.com/BVST-EK5967-NP-Digital-Temperature-Control-1-7-Liter/dp/B00BLR03I0

fyi - someone mentioned that bayou sells stock pot style brew kettles which are a thinner build, which is your link:
http://www.overstock.com/Home-Garden/Bayou-Classic-10-gallon-4-piece-Brew-Kettle/8229086/product.html?searchidx=0

vs. a more expensive bayou kettle(also 10 gal)
http://www.amazon.com/Bayou-Classic-Gallon-Stainless-Kettle/dp/B009SKU4PE/ref=pd_sbs_lg_2?ie=UTF8&refRID=1RK9KEQ901JA3P81GDN3

just fyi - can someone explain whether there is much of a difference? i just bought a cheap flimsy pot from williams brewing that came with a weldless ball valve.

I've had this one for two years. I'm happy with it.

https://www.amazon.com/Electric-Gooseneck-Kettle-Heater-Dripper/dp/B01EPDH8VG

Get yourself one! I have https://www.amazon.com/Hamilton-Beach-40880C-Electric-Stainless/dp/B00UFQ2LJ2/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1549264784&sr=8-3&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65 . It is slower than an electric kettle in the UK as it is about half the power but it's still much quicker and more convenient than using a kettle on the hob or the microwave.

I have a dedicated 1.7 L electric kettle that I keep on the bathroom counter. Every night after I rinse, I set it to boil, and leave the water in there. I use the water for my am and pm rinses and cleaning the bottle after. (When it boils, it stays hot enough long enough to kill amoeba.) (I change bottles every 3 months.)
https://www.amazon.com/Breville-SK500XL-Cordless-1-7-Liter-Stainless-Steel/dp/B000A790X6
If you need more water, you could boil it after each rinse.

Tapping it on for 30 seconds before filling the bottle warms it enough from room temperature to get more stuff out.

That is the colorful one. I meant this https://www.amazon.com/Brewista-Variable-Temperature-Kettle-BKV12S02NA/dp/B01CFHAIBQ

Sorry, but referral links are automatically removed by reddit's spam filter. This is one of the links you are trying to share:

>https://www.amazon.com/AmazonBasics-Stainless-Steel-Electric-Kettle/dp/B072DWYBL7/ref=sr_1_5/136-2297392-1858152?ie=UTF8&qid=1540961690&sr=8-5&keywords=Electric+Kettles

See the /ref= bit in the middle? Delete that and everything after it so all you're left with is

>https://www.amazon.com/AmazonBasics-Stainless-Steel-Electric-Kettle/dp/B072DWYBL7

That link is safe to share on reddit.

Reply to me here when you've edited the referral links out and I'll approve your comment :)

I have the new Krups gooseneck. It doesn't have much in the way of reviews because it's new, but I think it's excellent. I especially like the 1.2 let capacity as it gives me enough water to clean my filter and warm my cups.

Krups BW760D51 Gooseneck Electric Kettle, 1.2 L Capacity, Stainless Steel https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07G2R5BVQ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_NWt2BbFTN4Q21

This Zojirushi Kettle. You can control the temperature and it's better than a regular kettle because it boils water and then maintains the temperature so you don't have to boil water each time you want to make tea.

I can completely recommend this, too. I got mine May of last year and it's a complete pleasure to use.

There's both a larger and smaller model if that's more your style.

Here's the one I have. It does 160 to boiling.

Yes! I'm in college and have no cash. I used to use a Capresso electric grinder but that broke so I'm grabbing a Hario Mini Mill soon, only like $30-$40 - link

I also use a French Press, $20 or so - link

And I have an electric kettle with built-in thermometer, about $20 - link

Eight O'Clock beans are like, $4 from Target. If you have a Trader Joes nearby, they're also a good source of cheap beans.

All in all, I've spent maybe $80 on coffee equipment to make a pretty damn good cup on a college budget, while maintaining some portability.

I've found that as long as you can control the flow, you'll be alright - Try chucking the water into a teapot, anything is better than using a wide spout.

I agree with /u/arborday even without the perfect pour you can make great coffee with a V60 - I work in a coffee shop and the main reasoning behind using a gooseneck kettle is consistency, whereas for home use you can just suck up a bad coffee and learn from your mistakes, in a cafe scenario if it's not a good coffee it should not go anywhere near the customer.

In terms of pots (aka stovetop kettles) come in about £35 which I think I've seen cheaper elsewhere or there are other brands that might be cheaper. In terms of the article, I just wanted to pick something a bit geeky that anyone who brews with a v60 would probably want money no object.

After a zillion reviews of different keetles. I bought this a few years ago:
http://www.amazon.com/Pino-Digital-Kettle-Pro-oz/dp/B001HC54O2/ref=cm_cr_pr_product_top

I like it alot. I've heard of the coil dying after a few years mine is going strong still.

Unlike most kettles, the inside is mostly stainless steel except for some plastic on the lid. The digital accuracy is plus or minus 3 degrees -- it cycles around the goal temp to keep the water at that temp for like 1 hour. then it will shut off.

It's not cheap -- but I wanted something that works and was mostly metal.

Good point, crossed that one out. As a disclaimer, of the items I recommended, I personally have a Skerton knockoff, French press 1, the Aeropress, a Hario Buono and scale 1. Everything else I recommended is based on Amazon reviews/other coffee people. I have a Kalita 155 and a Virtuoso, too.

I've been thinking about getting one myself, so I just came here to see what people rocommend, but while browsing I found this one.
I think it's awesome! It's got a thermometer, a timer, and it's only 5 cups. I've been trying to find something low volume, because for one cup of tea for myself, I don't need a 1.5-2 liter kettle.

Think I'm gonna buy this one.

As a beginner I bought this: Ovente KS88S Temperature Control Stainless Steel Electric Kettle, 1.7 L, Brushed https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00RZXJOU2/ref=cm_sw_r_other_awd_bDrxwbCG3WA0Q

Hopefully it gets the job done :)

I have a stovetop gooseneck for pourover and an electric regular-mouth kettle for tea and FP.

I don't have this, but if I just wanted one device, I'd look at something like this.

Yes. I own this one for making Persian tea. I highly recommend it. It boils water extremely fast, then automatically shuts off. You can keep your tea warm in the teapot, too.

I also own this one from Zojirushi, but I assume that's overkill for your needs. I'd recommend anything from Zojirushi, though.

Been using this everyday for five years without issue.

http://www.amazon.com/Breville-SK500XL-Cordless-1-7-Liter-Stainless-Steel/dp/B000A790X6

I have This one, I got it from Target and has worked good so far, you can also get a decent one from Adagio

My advice here might not be popular, but before I got an electric kettle, I heated water in the microwave. Five minutes for a little over two cups of water in a 700 watt microwave was good for black tea.

I ended up buying this electric kettle because it was cheap and had temperature control a few months ago. And I am very happy with this infuser, which looks similar to the ForLife infuser linked in another comment.

Those two items would get you started hardware-wise for about $40, and you could use an insulated mug if you already have one in lieu of a thermos/tumbler.

http://www.amazon.com/Zojirushi-CD-WBC30-Electric-3-Liter-Champagne/dp/B0011528S0

I'll delete if that's not ok. It's not my store, I don't do equipment.

If you don't think you'll ever brew high gravity beer or large batches, and you want something smaller and cheaper, they have a 10 gallon version
https://www.amazon.com/Bayou-Classic-800-410-10-gal-Stainless/dp/B009SKU4PE/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1525274866&sr=8-1&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_FMwebp_QL65&keywords=bayou+classic+brew+kettle

One of these.

I didn't know microwaving mugs of water was a thing until I saw a friend do it when I was maybe 17. It's just...barbaric. Or at least it results in an inferior cup of tea.

How to Make Proper Tea

1. Fill kettle with water, begin boil. Both electric and stove-top kettles are acceptable.
   
2. Place tea bag in mug. Preferably Barry's Gold Blend, because it is sweet ambrosia from the nipples of God.
   
3. Pour now-boiling water over tea bag. Allow it to steep for about two minutes, none of this wringing out the tea bag in an attempt to squeeze every possible drop out of it. It results in a bitter tea. Just sit on your hands for two minutes and wait.
   
4. Add milk and sugar. (It is news to me that apparently most Americans don't do this. My parents are Irish, so I was obviously taught superior tea-making skills. Milk + sugar is the best way.)
   
5. Enjoy delicious beverage.

I've been happy with this one, goes on sale once in a while too https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B01EPDH8VG/ref=sspa_mw_detail_1?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Loose leaf tea is great! It's so much better. Bigger leaves and less fine particles (fannings) mean it will be less bitter. Those little pieces steep really quickly, and make it bitter and almost metallic.

There's also temperature and steep time that you have to look out for, and adjust to your taste. Some greens only need 15 seconds of steeping in 160f water, while some blacks are best in 200f for 2-3 minutes.

I didn't know at first, but color varies a lot. A green can be ready when it's almost totally clear, or a dark green color, but most will be a yellow color (the result is often called the liquor or broth).

One of my favorites is an irish breakfast tea, with like a tablespoon full of leaves for a really strong but not at all bitter tea.

Sometimes people will intentionally steep tea for a long time, then add warm water to dilute it.

Check out r/tea, it's the coolest and most relaxed sub ever. "Oh, you like cheap lipton tea bags? That's cool, whatever you like!".

Tea balls suck, by the way. They don't let the leaves expand and mix evenly.

https://smile.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B01ABVM226/ref=yo_ii_img?ie=UTF8&psc=1 This is what I use, and it's great.

https://smile.amazon.com/gp/aw/ya/ref=oh_aui_i_sh_post_o17?ie=UTF8&ac=od&ii=&ij=&noi=&of=&oi=&oid=105-5075213-2947460 This is my mug. The infuser came broken, but it's great watching the water mix and change color.

Edit:
These are some of my favorites that I've gotten off Amazon

This is some of the best Jasmine tea I've had, and it's super cheap. I got mine for $8.

This is some really good mint tea, good balance, really refreshing.

This is a good oolong, which is really good and way different from most other teas. It's roasted, which gives it a unique flavor. This is the black dragon (Oolong is actually Chinese for black dragon), which tastes more like a black, but they also have a green dragon oolong that is more green, if that's your preference.

That's just what I've gotten from Amazon, but the best stuff I've gotten is from The Devotea. They had a crazy 75% off sale so I just bought some of everything, and it was all consistently very good, very high quality.

This kettle has saved me a lot of trouble, it works really well once you figure it out, and you don't have to worry about boiling water and letting it sit for 3 minutes or something, you just push the button a couple times to choose the temperature.

Get a hot water dispenser.

Correct, says so in description as well.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B008L3R8BM/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1525907532&sr=8-1&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=hario%2Bbuono&dpPl=1&dpID=415EGQgqlHL&ref=plSrch&th=1&psc=1

quick search gave me this https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B001EHF3OG/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_dp_T1_Ab.rzbF8858G1

Fuck Keurigs! Just buy an AeroPress. It's so much cheaper per cup, is practically self cleaning, and makes better coffee. You can make it as strong as you want, and can even make espresso ("coffee concentrate" if you want to be very technical.) And you can use whatever coffee you want!

Rather than spending all that money on a fancy brewer, and then $1 per cup of coffee, buy a Zojirushi Boiler (or similar), and you can make coffee nearly as fast as with a Kurig. I don't mean within 15 seconds, but so short that you won't hesitate to make a cup. Or you can just nuke some water in a Pyrex measuring cup, but that takes 2-3 minutes.

I own that exact boiler and an AeroPress, and it's amazing. I have 195° water on tap all of the time, and the 4 qt one is tall enough to dispense right into an AeroPress on top of a tall mug.

I even use an AeroPress at work at my desk even though there's a Keurig available. I get hot water from the water dispenser (combo water cooler/heater that work provides), use the AeroPress normally, push the grounds into the waste basket, then wash the remaining grounds off of the plunger with a chemistry wash bottle right into the waste basket, too. (There's a trash bag in it, and it's not much water.)