Tea kettles are used to heat water for brewing tea and other hot infusions. This category includes models that work on a stovetop as well as electric kettles that bring water to a boil and, in some cases, hold it at a set temperature. Stovetop kettles sit directly on a burner or heat source, warming the water evenly and offering a spout and handle that make pouring into a teapot or cup easy. Electric kettles plug into a kitchen outlet and rely on an internal heating element to quickly raise the water to a temperature, which cuts down waiting time when you want to make a cup of tea.

Some electric models maintain a selected heat once it is reached, which is useful when preparing more than one pot or brewing teas that require different water temperatures. Beyond tea, a kettle is also a convenient way to get boiling water for everyday kitchen tasks such as starting pasta, blanching vegetables, or mixing ingredients that need hot water. A kettle that heats quickly and pours steadily fits naturally into daily kitchen use, whether you are making a single cup of tea or preparing several servings at once.