The Cuisinart CPK-17 and Breville BKE820XL are both variable temperature electric kettles, but they cater to very different buyers based on price, material quality, and design. The Cuisinart CPK-17 is a feature-rich, budget-friendly option built for practicality and everyday ease of use, while the Breville BKE820XL is a premium appliance focused on superior build quality, precision, and a sophisticated kitchen aesthetic.
Here's everything you need to know to decide which electric kettle is the right one for your home.
Cuisinart CPK-17 PerfecTemp Cordless Electric Kettle
The Cuisinart CPK-17 is a highly popular and practical electric kettle known for its reliability and user-friendly features. It offers multiple temperature pre-sets, a sizable capacity, and quick heating, making it a go-to choice for homeowners who want great performance without a high price tag.
- What it is: A 1.7-liter cordless electric kettle with six pre-set temperature controls for brewing different types of tea and coffee.
- Key features: 1500-watt power for fast heating, 6 pre-set temperatures (160°F Delicate, 175°F Green, 185°F White, 190°F Oolong, 200°F French Press, Boil), 30-minute Keep Warm function, boil-dry protection, and a blue backlit water window.
- Price: Around $99.95
- Materials/Construction: Stainless steel body with a plastic base and handle. It features a concealed heating element to prevent mineral buildup and a removable scale filter for clean water.
- Style: Functional and modern with a simple, clean stainless steel housing that complements most kitchen decor.
- Pros: Excellent value for the price, more temperature pre-sets than the Breville, longer 30-minute Keep Warm cycle, fast and efficient boiling, cordless design allows for easy serving.
- Cons: Has more plastic components which feel less premium, pre-set temperatures are not customizable, some users report issues with lid durability over long-term use.
This kettle is ideal for the practical user who values functionality and versatility over high-end aesthetics and is looking for the best performance on a budget.
Shop this product: amazon.com/Cuisinart-CPK-17-PerfecTemp-1-7-Liter-Cordless-Kettle/
Breville BKE820XL Variable-Temperature Kettle
The Breville BKE820XL is a premium electric kettle designed for tea and coffee connoisseurs who appreciate superior craftsmanship and precise temperature control. Its robust, all-metal construction and refined design make it a statement piece on any countertop, justifying its higher price point with quality materials and performance.
- What it is: A high-end, 1.8-liter variable temperature kettle designed for enthusiasts who want precision and style.
- Key features: 1500-watt rapid boil, 5 pre-set temperature settings (175°F Green Tea, 185°F White Tea, 195°F Oolong Tea, 200°F French Press, 212°F Black Tea), 20-minute Keep Warm function, soft-opening lid to prevent hot water splashes.
- Price: Around $159.95
- Materials/Construction: Made with a high-grade brushed stainless steel boiler. Features dual water windows and an ergonomic, balanced handle.
- Style: Sleek, minimalist, and upscale. The brushed stainless steel finish and uncluttered controls give a premium, professional feel.
- Pros: Outstanding build quality and premium materials. Soft-opening lid is a thoughtful safety and convenience feature. The design is beautiful and looks fantastic on a kitchen counter. Precise and consistent temperature holding.
- Cons: Considerably more expensive than the Cuisinart. Shorter 20-minute Keep Warm cycle. Fewer pre-set temperature options.
This is the kettle for someone who appreciates high-end appliances, prioritizes build quality and aesthetics, and is willing to invest in a durable product that offers a refined user experience.
Shop this product: amazon.com/Breville-BKE820XL-Variable-Temperature-Kettle/
Cuisinart CPK-17 vs. Breville BKE820XL Comparison
Dimensions & Capacity
Both kettles have a very similar presence on the counter. The Cuisinart CPK-17 has a 1.7-liter capacity, while the Breville BKE820XL is slightly larger with a 1.8-liter capacity. This difference is negligible and won't be noticeable for most daily uses, whether you are making a single cup of tea or boiling water for French press coffee for guests. Footprint-wise, they are also quite close, so neither will take up significantly more space.
Materials & Construction
This is where the two products diverge the most. The Cuisinart is well-built with a stainless steel body, but the handle, lid, and base are made of plastic. While perfectly functional, these components don't convey the same sense of durability as the Breville.
The Breville BKE820XL is constructed almost entirely of brushed stainless steel, giving it a heavier, more substantial feel. This premium build quality is not just for looks - it contributes to longevity and a more robust user experience. Small touches like the soft-opening lid, which prevents hot water from splashing, further highlight Breville's attention to quality engineering.
Features & Performance
Both kettles utilize 1500 watts of power and boil water very quickly, so there is no big winner in terms of speed. For temperature control, the Cuisinart offers six pre-set options, while the Breville has five. This gives the Cuisinart a slight edge in versatility out of the box.
However, the Cuisinart has a longer 30-minute Keep Warm function compared to Breville's 20 minutes, which can be useful if you're multitasking. Both provide audible alerts when the water is ready, but neither allows you to set custom temperatures - you are limited to their built-in pre-sets.
Price & Value
The Cuisinart CPK-17 is the clear winner for shoppers looking for value. At around $100, its combination of speed, features, and capacity is difficult to beat. It provides most of what anyone would need from a modern electric kettle at a very reasonable price.
The Breville BKE820XL, at around $160, is a definite investment. The value here isn't about saving money upfront, but rather about buying a product that feels and performs like a high-end appliance. For users who prioritize build quality, design, and a refined experience, the extra cost is justified by the materials and durable construction.
Who Each One Works Best For
The Cuisinart kettle is perfect for the average household looking for a dependable workhorse. Its functionality, multiple pre-sets, and affordable price make it suitable for families, students, and anyone who wants a straightforward, effective kettle that checks all the important boxes without any frills.
The Breville kettle is designed for kitchen enthusiasts, tea and coffee aficionados, and those who see their appliances as an extension of their home's decor. It’s for people who are willing to pay a premium for longevity, superior materials, and a sophisticated product experience that elevates a simple daily routine.
Which One Should You Choose?
Both kettles are excellent choices, but they are built for different people with different priorities.
Choose the Cuisinart CPK-17 if:
- Your primary concern is getting the best features for the lowest price.
- You want more temperature pre-sets for a wider variety of teas.
- A longer 30-minute Keep Warm function is important to your routine.
- You need a solid, reliable kettle and aren't focused on premium materials.
Choose the Breville BKE820XL if:
- Build quality and long-term durability are your top priorities.
- You appreciate a sleek, modern aesthetic and want your appliances to look high-end.
- You are happy to invest more for better materials and design details like the soft-opening lid.
- You're a coffee or tea enthusiast who values consistency and precision.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the main difference between the Cuisinart CPK-17 and Breville BKE820XL?
The main difference comes down to material quality and price. The Breville uses premium brushed stainless steel for a more durable, upscale feel, while the Cuisinart is more budget-friendly and uses a mix of stainless steel and plastic components. The Cuisinart also offers one extra temperature pre-set and a longer Keep Warm cycle.
Is the Breville kettle worth the extra money?
Whether the Breville is worth the extra money depends on what you value. If you prioritize superior construction and a sophisticated design and view it as a long-term appliance investment, the answer is yes. If you just need a kettle that heats water quickly to specific temperatures at a good price, the Cuisinart offers better value for money.
Which kettle boils water faster?
Both models use a 1500-watt heating element, so their boiling speeds are very similar. You won't notice a significant difference in how fast either kettle brings a full pot of water to a boil.
Can you set a custom temperature on either kettle?
No, neither the Cuisinart CPK-17 nor the Breville BKE820XL allows you to set custom temperatures. You must choose one of the available pre-set temperature options on the base of each kettle.
Are the interiors of these kettles plastic-free?
For the most part, yes. Both kettles feature stainless steel interiors. However, some minor components like the water filter clasps or internal sensors might contain small amounts of BPA-free plastic for functionality.
Which one is easier to clean?
Both kettles are equally easy to clean due to their wide mouths and concealed heating elements. They also both include removable scale filters near the spout, which can be popped out and rinsed to remove mineral buildup.
Will these kettles shut off automatically?
Yes, both kettles feature automatic shut-off and boil-dry protection. They will turn off once the water reaches the selected temperature or if the unit detects there is no water inside, making them very safe to use.
How long is the warranty on these kettles?
The Cuisinart CPK-17 comes with a limited 3-year warranty, which is very generous for its price point. The Breville BKE820XL typically comes with a 1-year limited product warranty.
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