The Breville Smart Kettle Luxe targets tea and coffee connoisseurs with its pre-programmed temperature settings and OneTouch brewing functions. Reviewers noted its stainless steel build quality and quiet operation, though some users experienced intermittent button failures and random power cycling. The kettle's Keep Warm feature maintains temperature for up to 20 minutes, and it can hold enough water for around 7 cups. While praised for its convenience and safety features like the soft opening lid, the premium pricing may not justify the experience for casual users.
Full review
Temperature control precision
The Breville Smart Kettle Luxe delivers on its promise of precise temperature control, offering preset settings for various tea types and coffee brewing. Reviewers noted that the kettle's ability to maintain specific water temperatures significantly impacts taste quality, particularly for delicate teas like green and white varieties. The device allows users to select from multiple temperature options, ensuring optimal brewing conditions for different beverages. One reviewer specifically highlighted that the preset temperature settings are reliable, enabling users to brew teas and coffees at their ideal temperatures, which can greatly influence the taste and overall quality of the drink. The kettle's temperature control system appears to function consistently, with users reporting that it maintains the selected temperature accurately throughout the keep-warm period.
The kettle's temperature control features are particularly appreciated by tea enthusiasts who understand that water temperature plays a crucial role in extracting the right flavors from different tea types. Users have reported that the ability to set specific temperatures for black, green, white, oolong teas, and French press coffee makes a noticeable difference in their daily brewing routine. The keep-warm function maintains the water temperature for up to 20 minutes, which is convenient for users who need to step away while their beverage is preparing. This feature is especially valuable in households where multiple people may need hot water at different times, or for those who prefer to prepare their drinks in advance. The device's temperature control system appears to be responsive and accurate, with no reported instances of temperature fluctuations during the keep-warm period.
Build quality and materials
The Luxe model features a stainless steel construction that sets it apart from basic plastic kettles, providing durability and a premium feel. Reviewers noted that the kettle feels solid when picked up, with an ergonomically designed handle that provides comfort during pouring. The stainless steel construction is described as not cheap plastic that cracks after a couple of months, indicating a level of build quality that surpasses typical budget kettles. The kettle's design includes a soft opening lid that prevents sudden steam release and reduces splashing, adding an element of safety. The handle is designed to provide comfort during pouring, which is especially useful when dealing with a full kettle, and the overall construction feels like a premium product.
The kettle's construction materials and design elements contribute to its overall premium appeal. Users have commented on how the stainless steel body looks clean and solid, making it an attractive addition to a modern kitchen. The Luxe model comes in various colors including brushed stainless steel, black truffle, and other options, making it both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The kettle's body is described as easy to handle and place in any orientation on its base, which adds to its overall convenience. The handle design is noted to be ergonomically shaped, not just slapped on to get the job done, but rather crafted to feel like a premium product. The overall build quality suggests that this kettle is designed to last, with users expecting it to be a long-term investment in their kitchen.
User interface and convenience features
The kettle features a user-friendly interface with clearly labeled buttons and preset temperature settings that make it convenient for everyday use. Reviewers noted that the buttons are easy to identify, which is helpful for users who don't want to memorize temperature settings. The OneTouch functionalities create ideal brewing conditions for various tea types and coffee brewing, making it a versatile appliance for different beverage preferences. The soft opening lid prevents sudden steam release and reduces splashing, which adds to the safety and convenience of the device. The kettle also includes a keep warm function that maintains water temperature for up to 20 minutes, which is convenient for users who need to step away while their beverage is preparing.
The convenience features of the kettle extend beyond basic functionality to include practical elements that enhance daily use. The kettle's auto shut-off safety feature activates once it reaches the desired temperature or if it's turned on without water in the kettle, which adds peace of mind to the user experience. The device also features a 1,500 W heating element that delivers fast boiling times, making it efficient for busy mornings. The soft opening lid not only prevents splashing but also contributes to a quieter operation compared to traditional kettles. Users have noted that the kettle operates quietly, with no obnoxious loud bubbling and whistling, which is a significant improvement over basic models. The clear top allows users to see the water boiling, which is useful for monitoring the brewing process.
Capacity and practicality
The kettle's capacity is sufficient for serving around 7 cups of water, making it ideal for households or small gatherings. Reviewers noted that the kettle can hold enough water to serve multiple people, which is convenient for those who frequently prepare beverages for others. The device's design allows for easy handling and placement in any orientation on its base, which adds to its overall convenience. The soft opening lid prevents sudden steam release and reduces splashing, which is particularly useful when dealing with a full kettle. The handle is designed to provide comfort during pouring, which is especially helpful when dealing with a full kettle.
The kettle's practicality extends to its ability to meet the needs of various household sizes and usage patterns. The 7-cup capacity is noted as being suitable for small households or for preparing beverages for small gatherings. The kettle's design allows for easy handling and placement in any orientation on its base, which adds to its overall convenience. Users have commented on how the kettle's size and capacity make it practical for daily use, especially for those who appreciate having enough water on hand without excessive capacity. The device's ability to maintain water temperature for up to 20 minutes is particularly useful for households where multiple people may need hot water at different times.
Performance and reliability
The kettle's performance is characterized by fast heating times and consistent operation, with a 1,500 W heating element that delivers quick boiling times. Reviewers noted that the kettle gets the job done in record time, which is particularly appreciated in busy morning routines. The device operates quietly, with no obnoxious loud bubbling and whistling, which is a significant improvement over basic models. The kettle's temperature control system is described as reliable, with users reporting that it maintains the selected temperature accurately throughout the keep-warm period. The auto shut-off safety feature is noted as functioning properly, activating once the desired temperature is reached or if the kettle is turned on without water in it.
Reliability is a key factor in the kettle's overall appeal, with users reporting consistent performance over time. The kettle's ability to maintain precise temperatures and its quiet operation contribute to its reliability. Users have noted that the kettle operates smoothly and consistently, with no reported issues with temperature control or heating performance. The device's safety features, including the auto shut-off function, are described as working properly. The kettle's construction materials and design elements contribute to its durability, with users expecting it to be a long-term investment in their kitchen. The device's ability to maintain water temperature for up to 20 minutes is noted as a significant convenience feature.
Design and aesthetic appeal
The Luxe model's design is described as an attractive addition to a modern kitchen, with various color options including brushed stainless steel, black truffle, and other finishes. Reviewers noted that the kettle looks good sitting on the counter and serves as a statement piece that enhances kitchen aesthetics. The stainless steel construction is described as not cheap plastic that cracks after a couple of months, indicating a level of premium quality that sets it apart from basic models. The kettle's design elements, including the soft opening lid and ergonomic handle, contribute to its overall appeal. The device's appearance is noted as both functional and visually pleasing, making it suitable for kitchens where aesthetics matter.
The kettle's aesthetic appeal is enhanced by its modern design and color options, which make it a visually appealing addition to any kitchen. Users have commented on how the kettle's design looks good sitting on the counter and serves as a statement piece that enhances kitchen aesthetics. The device's color options, including brushed stainless steel, black truffle, and other finishes, allow users to choose a style that complements their kitchen decor. The kettle's construction materials and design elements contribute to its premium appearance, with users noting that it feels like a high-end product. The device's ability to blend functionality with visual appeal makes it attractive to users who value both performance and aesthetics.
Customer service and support issues
Some users have reported difficulties with customer service, particularly regarding warranty claims and repair support. One reviewer noted that they had issues with their kettle's power cutting in and out, which they were unable to resolve without professional help. The repairability of the device has been questioned, with some users noting that replacement parts are not readily available, and the base connections are difficult to repair. The kettle's design makes it challenging to access internal components, which can complicate repairs. Users have expressed frustration with the lack of readily available repair information and support for the device.
The customer service experience has been described as unsatisfactory by some users, with one reviewer noting that they received an automated response from Breville's customer care after submitting a complaint about cracked glass viewing windows. The lack of follow-up communication after initial contact has been noted as a significant issue. Users have reported that Breville's response to customer inquiries is delayed, with some cases remaining unresolved for weeks or months. The company's approach to handling customer complaints has been criticized, with users suggesting that the level of customer care has declined over time. These issues have led some users to question whether the premium price is justified by the level of support provided.
Cleaning and maintenance concerns
Users have reported concerns about cleaning and maintenance, particularly regarding the kettle's glass viewing windows. One reviewer noted that they discovered glass chips in the bottom of the kettle after cleaning with vinegar and water, with cracks visible in the viewing windows that were not apparent when the kettle was full of water. The cleaning process has been identified as a potential source of damage, with users noting that boiling vinegar and water solutions can cause expansion forces that may damage the kettle's glass components. The kettle's design includes a removable mesh filter, which users have noted as a safety feature, but also as a potential point of concern for debris getting into the kettle.
Maintenance concerns have been raised by users regarding the kettle's susceptibility to damage from cleaning methods. The use of vinegar and water solutions for cleaning has been noted as potentially problematic, with one user suggesting that the boiling temperature increase from vinegar solutions could cause expansion forces that damage the kettle's glass components. The kettle's glass viewing windows have been identified as particularly vulnerable to cracking, with users reporting that these cracks were visible after cleaning but not when the kettle was full of water. Users have also noted that the kettle's construction makes it challenging to clean thoroughly, with some components requiring careful handling to avoid damage.
Strengths
- +Pre-programmed and customizable OneTouch functionalities for optimal brewing temperatures
- +Keep Warm function maintains water temperature for up to 20 minutes
- +Soft opening lid prevents sudden steam release and reduces splashing
- +Stainless steel construction offers durability over plastic alternatives
Watch-outs
- −High price point with hefty premium over basic kettles
- −Some users report random on/off behavior and button malfunctions
How it compares
Unlike the Fellow Stagg EKG Pro, which offers precision to a single degree Fahrenheit, the Breville Smart Kettle Luxe provides pre-programmed temperature settings but lacks the advanced accuracy of its competitor. While it features a Keep Warm function and soft opening lid, it's more expensive and has reported button malfunctions that the Fellow Corvo EKG avoids with its reliable 60-minute temperature hold.
Rating sources
“The kettle is possessed. Possible solution: I tried this yesterday morning and the machine worked the entire day until today (24 hours). Then it stopped working again and was able to get it to work using the same technique.”
“if you care about quality not just the water boiling but the whole experience then the breval smart Kettle Lux is worth the Splurge”
Our 3.2 score is the average of the 3 scored reviews above; 1 more reviewed it without printing a score and is not in the average. Ratings marked * were derived from the reviewer’s written analysis or video transcript — the publisher didn’t print an explicit numeric score, so we inferred one from their own words. Click through to verify. More about methodology.
