After much consideration, selected this kettle for human factors design, quality materials and, low wattage compared to others. Wood handle is comfortable and the kettle tucks in nicely. My only wish is for a metal lid because it would stay nicer looking longer for those with hard water issues.
Pros: Pours beautifully (nice laminar flow, minimal breakage) Heats very quickly (while still heating accurately) Heats very accurately (while still heating quickly) Is pretty (fit and finish had better be on point at this price) Is comfortable (handle and balance are nice) Is extremely customizable - Nice features like programmability for start time and hold duration are available - But if you just want it to be a kettle, it won't shove the smart features in your face - No AI nonsense
Cons: It's a bit small - this is not a kettle for a tea party; it's a daily driver for tea for two or a morning french press
Does anyone need a kettle this fancy? No, no one does. Do I want a kettle this fancy? Absolutely I do.
How do you form an emotional connection with an appliance that just heats water? By making it the most *aesthetic* thing in the kitchen. It's beautiful. Every time I look at it, I imagine I live in a Scandinavian billionaire's remote forest house. That is a thought I enjoy having every day when I'm making tea.
Now, nothing is perfect. The hour hand on the analog clock doesn't move within the hour. It just ticks to the next hour. I have never seen an analog clock that works this way. It bothered me so I turned it off.
Then hey, back to aspirational wealthy minimalist bliss. It works very well as a kettle, but it's true value is revealed as a piece of modern art on your counter.