Is the Mueller Ultra Kettle M99S the best electric kettle? Honest reviews inside!

Description

A Daily Companion in My Kitchen

Testing electric kettles has become second nature for me, and the Mueller 1.8L electric kettle is one of those appliances that sneakily becomes indispensable. I drink tea like it’s going out of style, and my mornings simply don’t start until I’ve got a steaming mug in hand. Over the past few weeks, I’ve been using this kettle daily, so trust me when I say I’ve put it through its paces.

Features That Catch the Eye

This electric kettle is sleek, with a borosilicate glass body that’s both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The moment you switch it on, the blue LED lights illuminate the water, creating a small light show in your kitchen. It’s a feature that feels oddly satisfying at 6:30 a.m. when I’m still half-asleep. The lightweight design and heat-resistant handle make pouring easy and safe, even for someone as clumsy as me. The cordless pouring feature is a blessing when you’re trying to serve multiple cups without feeling tethered to the base.

One of my favorite aspects is the auto shut-off and boil-dry protection. Life gets busy, and I often walk away while it’s heating. Knowing it’ll turn itself off once the water’s boiled is a relief. That said, I did notice it’s not entirely silent while boiling—it gets a bit loud, but nothing unbearable. Let’s just say it makes its presence known.

Testing the SpeedBoil Technology

The SpeedBoil feature is no joke. I timed it, and the kettle heats 1.8 liters of water in just under 5 minutes. This speed is a lifesaver when I’m rushing to prepare tea for guests or need hot water for cooking. A quick tip: the kettle boils water so vigorously that you might find small splashes when opening the lid immediately after use. I learned this the hard way when I got a face full of steam one morning. Lesson learned—wait a few seconds before opening it.

The 1.8-liter capacity is more than enough for my family. It comfortably serves up to seven cups, which is perfect when I’m hosting a small get-together or brewing tea for my coworkers during virtual meetings. If you’re cooking pasta or oatmeal, boiling water in this kettle first significantly cuts down preparation time.

Maintenance and Durability

Cleaning this kettle is straightforward, thanks to its wide mouth and removable filter. My area has hard water, so limescale is always a concern. I’ve been using bottled water to avoid quick buildup, but for those using tap water, regular descaling will keep the stainless steel bottom looking spotless. The anti-scale mesh filter is a nice touch—it keeps particles out of my tea, which I deeply appreciate.

However, there’s a minor hiccup with the lid. It doesn’t open fully, which occasionally results in spills while pouring. It’s not a deal-breaker, but it’s something to watch out for if you’re in a rush.

Pros

• Fast boiling: The SpeedBoil technology is genuinely quick and efficient.
• Large capacity: 1.8 liters is plenty for family use or hosting.
• Auto shut-off: A thoughtful feature for busy or forgetful users.
• Easy to clean: The removable filter and wide mouth simplify maintenance.
• Attractive design: The glass body and blue LED lights are stylish and modern.

Cons

• Lid issues: The partially opening lid can lead to spills.
• Loud boiling: It’s not the quietest electric kettle on the market.
• Limescale visibility: The glass design means hard water stains are more noticeable.
• Initial setup: Boiling and discarding water 5-6 times before first use feels excessive.

How It Stacks Up Against Competitors

Comparing it to other electric kettles like the Hamilton Beach or the Cuisinart PerfecTemp, this Mueller model holds its own in terms of speed and design. The borosilicate glass is a standout feature, as most competitors stick to stainless steel or plastic, which lack the same visual appeal. However, the lid mechanism feels less polished compared to these brands.

When it comes to noise levels, the Mueller is slightly louder than the Hamilton Beach but quieter than some budget models. In terms of boiling speed, it’s on par with both brands. What sets this kettle apart is its combination of safety features, like boil-dry protection, and the aesthetic factor of the LED lights.

Cost Analysis and Value for Money

This kettle sits comfortably in the mid-range price bracket for electric kettles. While there are cheaper options, they often lack the design finesse and safety features this one offers. The durable borosilicate glass and stainless steel construction justify the investment. Plus, for its capacity and SpeedBoil technology, it provides excellent value. That said, if you’re on a tight budget, you might find similar functionality in less stylish models. On the other hand, high-end kettles with temperature control will cost more but may appeal to serious tea aficionados.

For the average user looking for a reliable and visually appealing electric kettle, this one hits the sweet spot. It’s not perfect, but its quirks are minor compared to its overall performance.

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