The best eco kettles for a conscious home in 2023

As we're all putting increased efforts into living a more sustainable life, energy-efficient alternatives have been popping up for pretty much all our household essentials, from oven alternatives to cheaper heating options. And kettles are no exception either.

Certain features can improve a kettle's energy efficiency. Heat preservation, fast boiling and temperature control settings are great in reducing the power required from a kettle.

A kettle requires between 1200W and 3000W to boil, and all those cups of tea and coffee can add up to have an impact on your energy usage over time. If you're looking to reduce your energy consumption and your carbon footprint, consider replacing your current model with an eco kettle.

Tried and tested: best eco-kettles at a glance

• Best smart kettle: Swan Alexa Kettle | Buy now £99.99, Amazon
• Best overall kettle: Bosch Styline Kettle | Buy now £85, Argos
• Best ergonomic kettle: Russell Hobbs Illuminating Glass Kettle | Buy now £39, Amazon
• Best kettle made from recycled materials: Philips Eco Conscious Edition 500 Series Kettle | Buy now £39.99, Currys
• Best quick boiling kettle: Duronic EK30 Eco Kettle | Buy now around £30, Amazon
• Best temperature control kettle: VonShef Variable Temperature Kettle | Buy now £49.99, Von Haus
• Best quiet kettle: Vektra 1.5L Vacuum Electric Kettle | Buy now around £60, Wayfair
• Best stylish kettle: Dunelm Contemporary Kettle | Buy now £48, Dunelm

Eight of the best eco kettles

Swan Alexa Kettle

Best smart kettle

• Score: 13/15
• RRP: £99.99

Watch our review video or scroll down to read our review...

Features

• 1.5 Litres
• Voice activated
• Auto shut-off
• Temperature range from 40-100
• Cordless design
• 360 base
• Hidden element
• Power-on indicator
• Two year warranty

Marketed as the world’s first smart kettle, the obvious pro with this model is that you can control it using your voice or via the Alexa app. Although this does come with some quirks folks, which I’m prepared to admit might be down to my proficiency using Alexa: I found she wasn’t willing to turn on the kettle if I asked her ‘to make me a cup of tea’ as advertised… but she was happy to respond if I asked her to simply ‘turn on the kettle’ or ‘boil the kettle’. Having reread the manual, it turns out you can teach Alexa to activate using favourite phrases, so I will try this and report back.

In addition to this, you can set schedules for when the kettle will automatically boil – for those over 40, think modern Teasmade that will sync with your phone alarm.

You can also check water levels, but if you don’t do this via the app, there’s no way of seeing how full the kettle is by simply looking at it – you would have to open the lid and look in, which means you’re at the kettle and you may as well turn it on!

In terms of ‘setting up’, in theory, it’s easy enough – use the QR code to find the kettle and follow the steps – but it took several attempts for me to get Alexa to recognise the kettle, and I resorted to downloading the app a few times and turning off the phone to see if that helped. I did get there in the end.

How energy efficient is the Swan Kettle

It ticks two of the three boxes from an energy efficient point of view, as there is a wide choice of temperatures, so you can boil the kettle to the temperature you need as opposed to the max temperature. It also will automatically keep water warm for two hours, and it will shut down after 10 minutes of inactivity. However, with 1.5-1.8 KW power, it’s much slower to boil than other kettles on test, (many of the more eco models featuring 3KW power), taking XXx to boil one cup of water/500ml of water.

Is the Swan Alexa kettle good value for money?

Obviously given the smart tech, this is the more expensive kettle we tested, but it comes with a two-year warranty – as many kettles on test did – and has plenty of features to make it good value. However, if you’re not a tech-head and won’t make the most of the Alexa compatibility, it’s not worth the heftier price tag.

How does the Swan Alexa kettle look?

Sadly, this kettle won’t win any awards on the style front. The glossy black finish is a magnet for fingerprints, and overall the design and finish looks quite cheap, which is surprsing for Swan as they have plenty of well-designed kettles in their range. However, this is about the smart technology, though in an ideal world, that wouldn’t mean that it had to compromise on style.

Should I buy it?

It all boils down (excuse the pun) if you embrace all other smart home tech or not. Though it was fun to talk to the kettle (up to a point), as you must take the kettle to the tap to fill it up with water, it was just as easy to press the switch in the old-fashioned way to turn it on as it was to use the smart, remote tech. However, if you love doing things via an app from your phone, and like the idea of a scheduled cuppa, then it’s the kettle for you.

It also gets the thumbs up if you’re keen on the eco credentials. So, if you're happy to compromise a little on style and aesthetic, this is a great option.

Bosch Styline Kettle

Best overall eco kettle

• Score: 14/15
• RRP: £69.99

• Buy now from Argos (£85.00)

Features

• Water level window
• Auto shut-off
• Cordless design
• 360º base
• Built-in filter
• Hidden element
• Easy pouring

How energy efficient is the Bosch Styline kettle?

This 1.5L kettle offers all three of the eco features on our list – 3kW element for rapid boiling (around 1 min 20 seconds for 500ml), four temperature settings of 70ºC, 80ºC, 90ºC and 100ºC, and a 30-minute keep warm function.

Is the Bosch Styline kettle good value for money?

Although a little more pricey than some of the other models on our list, we feel this kettle is a good investment as it does offer most of the standard features we look for in an eco kettle, three fantastic energy-saving functions and a two-year warranty.

How does the Bosch Styline kettle look?

In terms of looks, this design really hits the mark with its chic styling. We especially liked the base, with easy-to-set temperature controls and a keep warm button. It is also available in black and beige finishes if these are better suited to your kitchen scheme.

Should you buy it?

The Bosch Styline ticks nearly all our criteria boxes. The double-walled, cool-touch exterior is great for peace of mind when it comes to safety, and also helps to keep the boiled water hotter for longer. We like its minimal, fuss-free design too. It is on the pricier side though.

Russell Hobbs Illuminating Glass Kettle, black, £39.99

Best ergonomic kettle

• Score: 13/15
• RRP: £69.99

Features

• Water level window
• Boil dry protection
• Auto shut-off
• Cordless design
• 360º base
• Built-in filter
• Hidden element
• Especially good pouring with the large, easy-to-hold handle.

How energy efficient is the Russell Hobbs illuminating glass kettle?

Although it doesn’t offer different temperatures or a keep warm function, and isn’t officially classed as rapid boil, this smart 3000W kettle only took around 1 minute 25 seconds to get 500ml water to boiling point. Its glass body allows you to see exactly how much water is inside, so you don’t need to boil any more than you need. There’s a clear indicator for one cup, which Russell Hobbs claims will save up to 66% on energy in comparison to boiling a litre of water – ideal if you’re just making a single cup of tea or coffee.

Is the Russell Hobbs illuminating glass kettle good value for money?

Although one of the more pricey models we tested, we think it’s worth it due to the wide range of features, as well as the two-year warranty.

How does the Russell Hobbs illuminating glass kettle look?

In terms of good looks, this model doesn’t disappoint. The blue light which illuminates when boiling adds a modern touch to your work surface, and it’s also available in a copper finish.

Should you buy it?

It has a good range of standard features, and a stunning glass design with clear markings for water level. The only drawback is it did prove to be quite heavy when filled with water.

Philips Eco Conscious Kettle, 500 Series, £49.99

Best kettle made from recycled materials

• Score: 13/15 points
• RRP: £49.99

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Features

• Water level window
• Boil dry protection
• Auto shut-off
• Cordless design
• 360º base
• Built-in filter
• Hidden element
• Easy pouring

How energy efficient is the Philips Eco Conscious kettle?

This 1.7L model’s main eco-credentials are based on sustainability rather than features. It’s designed with 100% bio-based plastics to reduce its CO2 footprint by 25% during the production process. It doesn't offer rapid boil but it took just 20 seconds longer than the Russell Hobbs to boil 500ml of water, around 1 minute 45 seconds, and uses less power (2200W). It also has a clear water level indicator, which includes a one-cup measure, ensuring you’re not wasting energy by boiling any more water than you need.

Is the Philips Eco Conscious Kettle good value for money?

With an RRP of under £50, we think this kettle represents good value, as it ticks plenty of boxes and has the added bonus of its sustainable design, plus a two-year guarantee for peace of mind.

How does the Philips Eco Conscious Kettle look?

As well as its eco-conscious design, it looks great, with a minimal, almost Scandi feel which will look fantastic in any kitchen. We also liked the soothing white light on the power switch.

Should you buy it?

If you love chic, Nordic style, this could be the kettle for you, plus it’s made using bio-based plastic. In 2022, it was also awarded two design awards.

Duronic EK30 Eco Kettle, around £30

Best quick boiling kettle

• Score: 13/15
• RRP: £34.99

Features

• Water level window
• Auto shut-off
• Cordless design
• 360º base
• Built-in filter
• Hidden element
• Easy pouring

How energy efficient is the Duronic EK30 Eco Kettle?

The fastest of all six we tested, it boiled 500ml in just 1 minute 10 seconds, so it’s perfect if you’re often desperate for a cuppa! It also boasts a function to keep the water warm for up to 30 minutes, plus variable temperature settings.

Is the Duronic EK30 Eco Kettle good value for money?

If you’re looking to tighten the purse strings, this kettle is an affordable choice with plenty of eco features, and also comes with a one-year warranty.

How does the Duronic EK30 Eco Kettle look?

Although not the most stylish kettle we tested, it is available in a choice of black, white or stainless steel finishes (these do vary in price).

Should you buy it?

The fast boil makes the Duronic EK30 Eco Kettle super speedy, meaning you won’t need to wait long for your morning cup of tea or coffee. We found that the spout dribbled a little towards the end of pouring though.

VonShef Variable Temperature Kettle, £49.99

Best temperature control kettle

• Score: 13/15
• Check availability from VonHaus (RRP £49.99, now £44.99)

Features

• Water level window
• Boil dry protection
• Auto shut-off
• Cordless design
• 360º base
• Built-in filter
• Hidden element
• Easy pouring

How energy efficient is the VonShef Variable Temperature Kettle?

With five pre-set temperatures of 50ºC, 70ºC, 80ºC, 90ºC and 100ºC, this 1.7L kettle lets you brew your favourite beverage to perfection without wasting energy. It also offers rapid boil technology, getting 500ml up to 100ºC in around one minute 30 seconds.

Is the VonShef Variable Temperature Kettle good value for money?

With a good combination of both standard and eco features, this kettle is a great buy under £50, and comes with a two-year warranty.

How does the VonShef variable temperature kettle look?

Although it only comes in one finish, the stainless steel design is smart and would suit most kitchen schemes.

Should you buy it?

There is a slight delay in the time it takes the auto shut off to kick in once boiled, which we feel could be reduced to help save energy but the VonShef Variable was very easy to use, and it ranks highly on energy-saving features and general features.

Vektra 1.5L Vacuum Electric Kettle, around £60

Best quiet kettle

• Score: 8/15
• Buy now from Wayfair (RRP: £96.25, now £64.53)

Features

• Boil dry protection
• Auto shut-off
• Cordless design
• 360º base
• Hidden element
• Easy pouring

How energy efficient is the Vektra Vacuum Electric Kettle?

The only real energy-saving feature of this kettle is its double-walled vacuum flask design, which keeps water warm for up to four hours after boiling, meaning that you’re saving energy by not having to reboil frequently. It uses between 1.5kw and 1.8kw of energy, and reaches boiling point in around two minutes 30 seconds for 500ml.

Is the Vektra Vacuum Electric Kettle good value for money?

Priced at around the £70 mark at the time of writing, we feel that the absence of some quite standard features means that this model isn’t the best in terms of value. It does, however, come with a two-year warranty.

How does the Vektra Vacuum Electric Kettle look?

The design isn't hugely stylish but it’s available in a wide choice of five colours, as well as different capacities.

Should you buy it?

This kettle is very quiet to boil, so it’s ideal for those with open-plan kitchen/living areas. The vacuum technology stayed true to its claim of keeping boiled water warm at around 80ºC for up to two hours, and at around 68º for up to four hours. That being said, this model is quite slow to reach boiling point compared to the others we tested, and we also found the pouring system a little tricky, as you have to depress the lever while tilting the kettle at quite an angle.

Dunelm Contemporary Jug Kettle, 1.7L

Best stylish eco kettle

• Score: 11/15
• Buy now from Dunelm (RRP: £48)

Features

• Water level window
• Auto shut-off
• Cordless design
• 360º base
• Removable water filter
• Hidden element
• Power-on indicator
• Easy pouring

How energy efficient is the Dunelm Contemporary Jug Kettle?

This 1.7L kettle offers one of the eco features on our list – 3kW element for rapid boiling (1 min 27 seconds for 500ml).

Is the Dunelm Contemporary Jug Kettle good value for money?

This is one of the cheaper kettles in our test, and comes with a two-year warranty. However, it only has two of the three energy-saving functions, so it’s not the best eco-option to go for..

How does the Dunelm Contemporary Jug Kettle look?

In terms of looks, this design is super-stylish, with it’s two-toned wood and matt finish. It comes in a fashionable array of colours (grey, white, cream and yellow), which are also available in the matching toaster. We liked the light on the power-on switch, too.

Should you buy it?

The Dunelm Contemporary Jug Kettle ticks many of the boxes, but in terms of energy-efficiency, you might want more than just a rapid-boil feature.

More best-selling eco kettles:

While we haven't had chance to test these models yet, we have done plenty of research and read their reviews, and believe they are well worth recommending.

• KitchenCraft Living Nostalgia Induction Whistling Stove Top Kettle | Buy now around £20, Amazon
• Judge Traditional Whistling Kettle | Buy now around £60, Amazon
• Russell Hobbs Eclipse Jug Kettle | Buy now £53.99, Currys

Best eco kettles to buy in 2023 under £50

KitchenCraft Living Nostalgia Induction Whistling Stove Top Kettle

Pick between blue, cream or grey - this stovetop kettle has a pleasant retro look that's perfect for a vintage kitchen. Similarly to other stovetop kettles, it has a reduced manufacturing carbon footprint, and is powered by the hob alone.

For more retro kettles, check out our more detailed guide.

Judge Traditional Whistling Kettle

• Buy now from Horwood Homewares (£60.00).

This stovetop kettle has a strikingly simple design. A reflective stainless steel outer with a black handle and spout is all there is to see, making it a versatile choice.

It's suitable for all hob types, including induction, and as it's a stovetop kettle it doesn't require any power other than the hob.

Russell Hobbs Eclipse Jug Kettle

The Eclipse kettle from Russell Hobbs is extra quiet, and can boil a cup of tea or coffee in under a minute. This fast boiling makes it more energy efficient, and the transparent side with measurement indicators will help you boil the amount of water you need.

FAQs: What is an eco kettle?

Eco kettles are designed to use less power with each boil. They're also produced with the intention of lowering the environmental impact from their materials and manufacturing process.

Certain features can improve a kettle's energy efficiency. Heat preservation, fast boiling and temperature control settings are great in reducing the power required from a kettle, as well as using sustainable materials when constructing them.

Stovetop kettles can be good for the planet, too, as their carbon footprint from manufacturing can be much lower.

What to look for when buying an eco-kettle?

“If you’re in the market for a new kettle, choosing one with a rapid boil function is a great option as it heats the water up much faster than your average kettle. Equally, picking one with a ‘keep warm’ setting will mean you can go back for a brew later without having to boil the kettle again.

Having a kettle that has a high level of limescale build up can be a factor as to why your kettle is using more energy than it should be. This is because the water will take much longer to boil.” - Katy Roberts, AO.com’s kettle expert

Looking to make your whole kitchen more eco-friendly? Check out our guide to making your kitchen more sustainable. Worried about the energy usage of your oven? Check out our tests of the best air fryer instead. Want to stay cosy without an astronomical heating bill? Treat yourself to a toasty, energy-efficient heated throw. For more practical tips and shopping guides, check out our expert advice for the best energy-saving tips, as well as a round-up of the best energy efficient lightbulbs. Or if you're feelin inspired in the kitchen, check out our review of the best bread makers.