Elite Gourmet EKT8690 Electric Tea Kettle

It's impressively quick – most users report 3-4 minutes for a full 1.7-liter fill, and just 1-2 minutes if you're only boiling a cup or two. The 1500W heating element really delivers here. One thing to note: the blue LED light stays on during the entire boiling process, then clicks off automatically when it's done, so you'll know exactly when your water is ready.

This is where you need to set realistic expectations. At this price point, it's a solid performer for light to moderate use, but it's not a long-term workhorse. Several users report issues after 6-12 months – things like cracking near the base, handle stability problems, or coating deterioration. If you're an occasional tea drinker or need an affordable starter kettle, it's a great value. If you're boiling water multiple times daily, you might want to invest in something more robust.

Pouring is excellent – the cordless design with 360-degree swivel base makes it easy to lift and pour from any angle. Filling is a bit more finicky though. The lid only opens to about 45 degrees rather than lying flat, which means you need to angle the kettle or use a smaller container to fill it without splashing. The water level window helps you see exactly how much you're adding, which is handy for precision.

Yes – the auto shut-off is the standout safety feature. Once the water reaches a boil, the kettle automatically clicks off and stops heating, so you won't accidentally boil it dry or overheat it. This also makes it very beginner-friendly since there's no risk of forgetting it on the stove. Just keep in mind that the exterior can still get quite hot during use, so handle with care.

Hard water will cause mineral scaling just like with any electric kettle, but a few users specifically mentioned buildup being an issue with this model. The design has some nooks around the bottom plate where scale and even mold can accumulate if not cleaned regularly. If you have hard water, plan to descale it every few weeks with vinegar or a descaling solution, and make sure to dry the bottom thoroughly after each use.

This is a bit misleading in the marketing. While it's labeled as having a glass-like appearance, several users report it's actually a clear plastic body, not borosilicate glass. The interior does have a stainless steel bottom where the heating element sits, but the main chamber is plastic. If you're specifically looking for an all-glass or all-metal kettle to avoid plastic contact with hot water, this isn't the right choice.