The Breville Ikon electric kettle is another great kettle for under $70. The Breville SK500XL, to be exact will hold 1.5 liters of water, has an easy grip handle, and a stainless steel body which gives it a very stylish look.
However, if you are buying this kettle for heating water for tea, don't get your credit card out just yet.
While this kettle is great for instant soups, oatmeal, instant coffee, and regular black tea, it is not the greatest choice for oolong, green, and white tea drinkers. These types require a temperature below boiling, and boiling water is the only thing this Breville Ikon electric kettle knows how to do.
But if tea is not your only intention, then the below should help filter out a choice!
Breville SK500XL Pros
easily detaches from its base allowing for cordless free pouring
rotates on base / perfect for both left and right hand folks
heating elements located underneath kettle instead of inside kettle
the Breville boils water faster than models of equal price
auto shut-off once water comes to a boil...along with an audible "ding"
leak proof & easy to read water level gauge with back light for dark room settings
sports a large easy grip handle
Breville SK500XL Cons
some complain about a strong odor and plastic taste. (Breville acknowledges this and states that it is "manufacturing residue". A fix for this is filling with water and adding 1/4 cup of vinegar for 2 or 3 rinses
is questionable if it will last over a year, depending on use...not the most durable under frequent long term usage
the outside tends to get hot which can lead to burns. Not the best kettle to have around young kids
not the quietest of kettles, but not a freight train either
feels rather heavy despite its size
More pros than cons from what I researched, and for the look, amount of water it holds, and price, it wouldn't be a mistake to purchase.
While that plastic smell and taste in the water seems like a health hazard and big turn off, it is also understandable since all new appliances do indeed come off a manufacturing line. So long as it can be washed away, I don't see a problem with it.
