Okay, so I’m a tea addict. Seriously, ask anyone I work with – I’m practically mainlining the stuff. That’s why I’m always on the hunt for a good kettle, something that can keep up with my, shall we say, enthusiastic consumption. The Hamilton Beach Electric Tea Kettle caught my eye recently, mostly because the price was hard to ignore. Could it handle my daily brewing demands? Here’s the lowdown after a few weeks of putting it through its paces.
First impressions? It’s not the prettiest kettle on the block, but it’s not an eyesore either. The black finish is… well, black. It blends in, which is honestly all I ask for. What did immediately grab me was the cordless design. You have no idea how much I hate wrestling with cords when I just want a quick cuppa before diving into emails. And the 1.8-liter capacity? Perfect for brewing a big pot when friends come over… or, you know, just for me throughout the day. No judgment, please!
Now, let’s talk performance, because that’s where this kettle really surprised me. It boils water fast. Like, seriously fast. Faster than my old stovetop kettle, hands down. And forget about the microwave – this thing is a speed demon. Plus, the automatic shut-off is a lifesaver. I’m notorious for getting distracted, so knowing it won’t boil dry if I wander off is a major win. The pouring spout is also surprisingly good – no annoying drips down the side of the kettle, which is always a bonus.
But, and there’s always a but, it’s not all perfect. The plastic construction does feel a bit… cheap. I haven’t had any issues with cracking myself, but I’ve seen some reviews online where people have had problems. It makes me wonder about its long-term durability. Also, while cleaning is easy enough, I do wish the mesh filter was a bit sturdier. It feels a little flimsy when I’m trying to rinse out loose tea leaves.
So, the verdict? The Hamilton Beach Electric Tea Kettle is a decent option if you’re on a tight budget and need a reliable kettle for everyday use. It heats water quickly, has some great safety features, and that cordless design is super convenient. Just be aware that the plastic might not be the most durable thing in the world. If you’re after a premium, built-to-last kettle, you might want to spend a bit more. But if you need something that gets the job done without emptying your wallet, this one is definitely worth considering.
I’d give it a solid 3.5 out of 5 stars. Worth a buy? Yeah, probably, especially if you’re on a budget. Just keep an eye on that plastic!