Glass electric kettles have become a popular choice for those seeking a blend of aesthetics, safety, and functionality in their kitchen appliances. Unlike plastic or stainless steel kettles, glass models allow you to watch water boil, are often free of chemical leaching, and add a modern touch to any countertop.
Why Choose a Glass Electric Kettle?
For those who are looking to streamline their boiling or brewing routine, a glass electric kettle is an ideal choice. Not only do these kettles boil water more quickly than their stovetop counterparts, but they also prevent oxidation and rust, making them a safe and healthy option. They also add a touch of style to any kitchen. Glass kettles are popular for their elegant look. They let you see the water boil. Glass is a bit slower to heat up than metal. Yet, once hot, it cools down slowly. This means it can keep water warm for a while. Glass kettles offer aesthetic appeal and chemical-free purity, while metal kettles boast durability and faster heating times.
Buying Guide: What to Look for in a Glass Electric Kettle
Choosing the right glass electric kettle involves considering several key factors to ensure it meets your needs. Here’s a detailed buying guide based on expert insights:
- Material Quality: Ensure that the kettle is made of high-quality borosilicate glass, known for its durability, resistance to thermal shock, and ability to withstand high temperatures. This material guarantees your kettle will last for years without any cracks or breakages.
- Capacity: Consider how much water you typically need to boil. Glass electric kettles come in various capacities. If you frequently entertain guests or have a large household, opting for a higher-capacity kettle will save you time and effort. Typically, kettles can hold between 1.5 and 1.7 litres of water. An average cup of tea is 250ml, so you should be able to boil enough for 6-7 cups at a time.
- Wattage: Higher wattage translates to faster boiling times. Look for a kettle with at least 1500 watts to ensure efficient heating and quick boiling. A power element of 3kW is generally considered best for fast boiling.
- Safety Features: Safety is paramount, so prioritize kettles with advanced safety features. Auto shut-off and boil-dry protection features ensure that the kettle turns off automatically when the water reaches boiling point or when there’s no water left inside.
- Temperature Control: For tea enthusiasts, variable temperature settings are a must-have feature. Look for kettles that offer multiple temperature options, allowing you to customize the water temperature based on different types of beverages, such as green tea, black tea, or coffee.
- Design and Ergonomics: A sleek and modern design adds a touch of elegance to your kitchen. Choose a glass electric kettle that complements your kitchen décor and personal style. An ergonomically designed kettle with a comfortable handle and easy-pour spout ensures effortless pouring without any strain on your wrist. A 360-degree swivel base provides convenience and ease of use.
- Additional Features: Some kettles come with LED or audible signals to alert you when the water has reached boiling point. This feature saves time and ensures optimal efficiency. If you have limited counter space or frequently travel, a compact and space-saving glass electric kettle will be your best bet.
Top Glass Electric Kettle Recommendations
Based on extensive testing and expert reviews, here are our top picks for the best glass electric kettles of 2025, along with their pros, cons, and user experiences.
1. OXO Brew Adjustable Temperature Kettle
The Oxo Brew Cordless Glass Electric Kettle is a sleek appliance that fits any modern kitchen. It’s made of super-strong borosilicate glass and has an effectively heatproof handle. We found the measurements on the side of the glass helpful and easy to read. The kettle’s 1.75-liter capacity is on the larger end, yet it reaches a boil faster than average at well under 5 minutes. The temperature dial, located on the base of the kettle, can be adjusted to heat up water to anywhere between 170 and 212°F. Once the water reaches the set temperature, the heating element will maintain that temperature for 30 minutes, or until you remove the kettle from the base.
Pros:
- Pros: Best features for the price, heats quickly and automatically holds the target temp for 30 minutes, can set to the single degree from 104ºF–212ºF, real-time temperature display, instructions and suggested temps printed on the base, trusted brand, good warranty.
- The glass is durable and can withstand thermal shock.
- It’s sturdy and well-made, which I attribute largely to the glass walls and stainless steel details. Those materials are both more durable, nicer-looking, and easier to clean than the cheap plastics of the kettles I associate with dorm rooms.
Cons:
- The downside of the lovely transparent glass is that it isn’t insulated and gets hot to the touch, so you’ll have to make sure to keep your fingers on the handle only.
- The only notable downside of this kettle is its smaller opening, which may make it hard to hand wash, though does not affect the boiling process.
- Because it’s so simple, the control panel doesn’t allow for any presets (although as long as it stays plugged in, it will remember the last temperature setting you used, so you can simply press the dial to reach it again).
User Experience: I appreciate that the glass lets you easily see how much water is inside, and I find the pour spout to produce a clean pour even though it’s a larger opening than a gooseneck. It holds temperature for 30 minutes, too. For speedy mornings when you need to rush out the door to make your 9 o’clock meeting, look no further than the OXO Brew Cordless Glass Electric Kettle. It’s made from durable Borosilicate glass and stainless steel and checks all of our boxes for an intuitive kettle. It has easy-to-read measurements, a large non-slip handle, a flip-top lid and wrap-around cord storage.
Where to Buy: OXO Brew Adjustable Temperature Kettle on Amazon
2. Cosori Electric Glass Kettle
If you like to keep things simple, the Cosori Electric Glass Kettle is a no-frills model that’s designed to do one thing: boil water. In testing the Cosori, I found that the spout releases a very steady and controlled stream, especially for having a larger opening); there’s no splashing or spilling when I pour. And while I’m partial to the Stagg EKG, the larger volume of this one is useful for batching iced tea, as well as cleaning my sink: I fill it up, let the water get piping hot, scrub the stainless interior of my basin with a sponge, and then pour the water out all over it for a sparkling finish. I like that the kettle is made of glass because I can easily see the amount of water inside, and the handle is sturdy and comfortable to hold, too.
Pros:
- Glass Kettles are very stylish and they look really modern. It’s like you will fall in love with the design at just a single look.
- Glass Kettles are made of very high quality glass and there is no need to worry about the corrosion as the glass never corrodes.
- It is much easier to clean the glass kettles for multiple reasons. The first reason is that since the kettle is transparent, you will be able to notice any kind of build-up very easily which would help you in cleaning it there and then.
Cons:
- Another downside is that the kettle doesn’t provide any functions beyond boiling; there’s no temperature control or keep-warm mode. But, at this low price, we don’t expect a very versatile appliance.
- Glass is not as good at moving heat as metal. It takes time for a glass kettle to start boiling water.
User Experience: This is another solid, no-frills non-variable kettle that lights up blue when the tab is pushed down so you know it’s heating up. The Amazon Basics model could be great for a dorm room, desk, camper van, or anywhere else you need reliable hot water without much fuss.
Where to Buy: Cosori Electric Glass Kettle on Amazon
3. Hamilton Beach Glass Electric Tea Kettle
If you’re on a budget and you don’t need multiple temperatures or a keep-warm setting but do want a large capacity, the 1.7-liter (7-cup) Hamilton Beach Glass Electric Tea Kettle is worth your consideration. It heats water quickly but costs half the price of most we tested. With its clear glass carafe, it also looks better than other inexpensive models. The Hamilton Beach has a simple-to-use on-off lever and a hinged lid that releases when you pinch buttons on both sides of the lid at once. To keep it in the open position, you have to press the lid back firmly. While the kettle heats, an attractive ring of blue light appears at the bottom of the carafe and shuts off when the water boils.
Pros:
- The glass is durable and can withstand thermal shock.
- It heats water quickly but costs half the price of most we tested.
- With its clear glass carafe, it also looks better than other inexpensive models.
Cons:
- The Hamilton Beach has a pointy spout that dispenses water thinly, but the kettle is bottom-heavy and doesn’t feel well balanced as you pour.
- Another downside is that the kettle doesn’t provide any functions beyond boiling; there’s no temperature control or keep-warm mode.
User Experience: The Hamilton Beach Glass Electric Tea Kettle can bring 1.7 liters of water to a boil. This kettle is budget-friendly and great for people who aren’t interested in multiple temperature settings.
Where to Buy: Hamilton Beach Glass Electric Tea Kettle on Amazon
Comparison Table
| Model | Capacity | Temperature Control | Wattage | Material | Price Range | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| OXO Brew Adjustable Temperature Kettle | 1.75 liters | 104ºF–212ºF | 1500 watts | Borosilicate glass, stainless steel | $100-$120 | Variable temperature, keep-warm for 30 min, ergonomic handle |
| Cosori Electric Glass Kettle | 1.7 liters | Boil only | 1500 watts | Borosilicate glass | $25-$35 | Blue LED indicator, budget-friendly, easy to clean |
| Hamilton Beach Glass Electric Tea Kettle | 1.7 liters | Boil only | 1500 watts | Glass, stainless steel | $20-$30 | Budget-friendly, blue light ring, durable glass |
In-Depth Analysis and Insights
Glass electric kettles stand out for their chemical-free boiling process, which is a significant advantage for health-conscious consumers. Unlike plastic kettles, which may leach microplastics or chemicals into boiling water, glass is inert and does not corrode, ensuring pure-tasting water. However, glass kettles are not without drawbacks. They are less durable than stainless steel and can be prone to cracking if mishandled. The main drawback with glass tea kettles is that you need to take care of them to avoid scratches and chipping over time. Glass is susceptible to cracking if placed in the dishwasher next to other dishes and can build up staining over time.
For tea and coffee enthusiasts, variable temperature control is a game-changer. Different teas and brewing methods require specific temperatures—green tea1 tea at 160°F, oolong at 195°F, and black tea at 200°F or higher. Kettles like the OXO Brew Adjustable Temperature Kettle allow for precise control, which is crucial for extracting optimal flavors. The OXO’s ability to hold temperature for 30 minutes is particularly useful for busy mornings when you might get distracted.
From a design perspective, glass kettles are unmatched in aesthetic appeal. The whole design looks very elegant and this is majorly because of the transparent glass body. However, glass is not as good at moving heat as metal, which means it takes slightly longer to boil water compared to stainless steel models. Yet, once hot, it cools down slowly, which can help maintain water temperature for a short period.
User experiences highlight the practicality of glass kettles. The transparency makes it easy to monitor water levels, which is a significant advantage over stainless steel models that require opening the lid to check. However, some users note that glass kettles can get hot to the touch, requiring careful handling.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Are glass electric kettles safe?
Yes, glass electric kettles are safe when made from high-quality borosilicate glass, which is resistant to thermal shock and does not leach chemicals into water. They are a healthier option compared to plastic kettles, which may release microplastics.
2. How durable are glass electric kettles?
Glass kettles are less durable than stainless steel and can crack or chip if mishandled. However, borosilicate glass is designed to withstand high temperatures and thermal shock, making it suitable for boiling water. Careful handling and avoiding dishwashers can extend their lifespan.
3. Can glass kettles be used on stovetops?
No, glass electric kettles are not designed for stovetop use. They are specifically built for electric heating elements within the kettle’s base. Using them on a stovetop can cause cracking or shattering.
4. How do I clean a glass electric kettle?
To clean a glass kettle, use a soft sponge with mild detergent. For mineral scale or stains, a 1:1 mixture of water and white vinegar can be used. Avoid abrasive sponges and ensure electrical components are not submerged.
5. Do glass kettles boil water faster than stainless steel?
Glass kettles are slightly slower to boil water than stainless steel due to glass’s lower thermal conductivity. However, with at least 1500 watts, most glass kettles boil water quickly, often in under 5 minutes.
Conclusion
Glass electric kettles combine style, safety, and functionality, making them an excellent choice for tea and coffee lovers. The OXO Brew Adjustable Temperature Kettle stands out for its precise temperature control and user-friendly design, while the Cosori Electric Glass Kettle offers unbeatable value for those seeking simplicity. For budget-conscious buyers, the Hamilton Beach Glass Electric Tea Kettle delivers reliable performance at a low price. By considering factors like capacity, wattage, and safety features, you can find the perfect kettle to elevate your brewing experience. Explore these top picks and bring home a kettle that suits your lifestyle and kitchen aesthetic.