Which is the better buy? Side-by-side on rating, price, strengths, and watch-outs — with the published ratings we averaged to get there.
Stiebel Eltron Tempra 36 Plus comes out ahead by a narrow margin (4.5 vs 4.8). The gap is mostly about whole-home electric tankless installs in mild climates — read the strengths below before deciding.
The RTEX-13 is the point-of-use pick — Rheem's compact tankless for a single sink or shower. Best for additions and outbuildings.
The Tempra 36 Plus is the best-overall pick — Stiebel Eltron's flow control handles whole-home demand without cold-water sandwiching.
Point-of-use only. Compact. Cheapest pick.
Best whole-home pick. German engineering. Highest amperage required.
| Spec | Rheem RTEX-13 Point-of-Use | Stiebel Eltron Tempra 36 Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Point-of-use electric | Electric whole-home |
| Power | 13 kW | 36 kW |
| Use | Single fixture | — |
| Form | Compact | — |
| Flow Control | — | Advanced |
| Warranty | — | 10-year combined |