The Fellow Stagg EKG and the Oxo Good Grips Kettle are two of the most popular electric kettles, but they cater to very different users. The Stagg EKG from Fellow is a premium, design-focused kettle with precise variable temperature control and a gooseneck spout, built specifically for specialty coffee lovers. In contrast, the Oxo kettle is a practical, budget-friendly workhorse with a larger capacity and simpler controls, designed for everyday versatility.
Here’s everything you need to know to decide which electric kettle is the right fit for your kitchen counter.
Fellow Stagg EKG Kettle
The Fellow Stagg EKG has achieved cult status among coffee aficionados for its stunning minimalist design and flawless performance. It's built from the ground up for the perfect pour-over, combining an elegant aesthetic with exacting temperature control that allows users to dial in their ideal brewing temperature to the degree.
- What it is: A precision-engineered electric gooseneck kettle designed for specialty coffee brewing.
- Key features: Variable temperature control from 135°F to 212°F, LCD screen showing real-time temperature, "Hold" mode maintains temperature for 60 minutes, precision pour spout for optimal flow rate, built-in brew stopwatch.
- Price: Around $165
- Style: Sleek and modern minimalist design with matte black, white, and polished finishes that make it a statement piece on any countertop.
- Materials/Construction: High-grade 304 stainless steel kettle body and lid with a small, weighted base.
- Dimensions: 0.9 liter (30 oz) capacity, ideal for brewing 1-2 cups.
- Pros: Unmatched temperature accuracy, beautiful and compact design, superb pouring control from the gooseneck spout, heats water quickly, built-in timer adds convenience.
- Cons: High price point, smaller 0.9L capacity isn't ideal for large batches or families, the base is made of plastic which can feel less premium than the kettle itself.
The Stagg EKG is the perfect tool for the discerning home barista who views coffee brewing as a craft and is willing to invest in precision and style.
Shop this product: fellowproducts.com/products/stagg-ekg-electric-kettle
Oxo Good Grips Electric Kettle
The Oxo Good Grips Electric Kettle represents practicality and reliability. It is a no-fuss appliance designed to boil water efficiently for tea, French press, or oatmeal without the frills - or the high cost - of specialty equipment. Its larger capacity and simple operation make it a staple in busy family kitchens.
- What it is: A functional and affordable all-purpose electric kettle for daily household use.
- Key features: Larger capacity (typically 1.7 liters), rapid boil feature, auto shut-off for safety, cord-free design when lifted from the base, non-slip and soft-grip handle for comfortable handling. Some models offer adjustable temperature presets.
- Price: $50 - $70 (standard models), adjustable temperature models cost around $105
- Style: Utilitarian and straightforward. Its design focuses on function and ergonomics rather than display-worthy aesthetics.
- Materials/Construction: Mix of BPA-free plastic and stainless steel. Known for solid construction and durability for its price point.
- Dimensions: 1.0 liter to 1.7 liter (58 oz) capacity depending on the model, suiting larger households.
- Pros: Highly affordable, large capacity is great for multiple people, reliable and easy to use, ergonomic handle provides a secure grip, trusted brand known for quality.
- Cons: Lacks precise temperature control - even on adjustable models which use presets. Not suitable for precision pour-over coffee due to its standard spout. The design is bulky and primarily plastic.
This kettle is tailor-made for anyone who needs a dependable, high-capacity kettle for varied daily tasks and prioritizes value and simplicity over specialized features.
Shop this product: oxo.com/categories/coffee-tea/kettles/1-7-l-electric-kettle-adjustable-temperature
Fellow Stagg EKG vs. Oxo Comparison
Style & Materials
There's a significant divide in design philosophy. The Fellow Stagg EKG is crafted to be a showpiece, featuring a minimalist stainless steel body with a graceful gooseneck spout and elegant matte finishes. It's meant to complement a modern, curated kitchen aesthetic. The compact form factor and clean lines scream premium design.
The Oxo is built for pure function. Its design is more utilitarian, with a larger footprint, a mix of plastic and metal components, and a focus on ergonomics like its signature non-slip handle. While sturdy and reliable, it's designed to be a functional tool rather than a decorative object.
Performance & Precision
Performance is the biggest differentiator. The Stagg EKG excels with its to-the-degree variable temperature control, which is critical for extracting the best flavor from different coffee beans. Its gooseneck spout provides a slow, steady stream of water, giving the user complete control - a must-have for pour-over brewing methods like a V60 or Chemex. The 60-minute hold function and built-in timer are thoughtful additions for serious brewers.
The Oxo kettle is built for speed and simplicity. It boils water quickly and is perfect for tasks where precision isn't necessary, like making tea or instant noodles. While Oxo offers models with temperature presets, they don't provide the granular, degree-by-degree control of the Fellow, and its standard spout is not designed for the precise art of pour-over coffee.
Capacity & Size
The Fellow Stagg EKG has a 0.9-liter capacity, perfect for making one or two cups of pour-over at a time. Its smaller size works well in compact kitchens or dedicated coffee stations where space is at a premium.
The Oxo, with its typical 1.7-liter capacity, is built to serve a crowd. It can boil nearly twice as much water as the Fellow, making it a much better option for families, entertaining guests, or anyone who needs large amounts of hot water quickly.
Price & Value
At around $165, the Fellow Stagg EKG is a significant investment. For that price, you get unparalleled precision, a superior design, and a specialized tool for artisan coffee. Its value lies in its ability to perfect a specific brewing process.
The Oxo kettle, typically priced between $50 and $70 for standard models, offers incredible value for an everyday appliance. It's a durable, reliable, and high-capacity kettle that performs its core function exceptionally well for a fraction of the cost. For most general household needs, the Oxo delivers better all-around value.
Who Each One Works Best For
The Fellow Stagg EKG demographic is clear: specialty coffee enthusiasts, home baristas, and anyone dedicated to the craft of pour-over brewing. It's for users who understand the impact of precise temperature on coffee extraction and are willing to pay a premium for a tool that offers both impeccable function and sophisticated form. If you geek out over brewing variables and see your coffee gear as part of your home decor, the Stagg EKG is for you.
The Oxo Good Grips Kettle is for everyone else. It is the ideal choice for families, tea drinkers, French press users, and anyone needing a reliable, no-nonsense kettle. Its practicality, large size, affordability, and ease of use make it a versatile kitchen workhorse. If you need hot water for a variety of tasks and value function and budget over specialty features, the Oxo is a smart, safe buy.
Which One Should You Choose?
Both kettles are excellent products, but they excel in completely different areas.
Choose the Fellow Stagg EKG if:
- You exclusively or primarily brew pour-over coffee.
- Precise, degree-specific temperature control is your top priority.
- Kitchen aesthetics are important, and you want a beautifully designed appliance.
- You have a higher budget and are investing in a specialized piece of coffee equipment.
- You typically only brew 1-2 servings at a time.
Choose the Oxo Good Grips Kettle if:
- You need an affordable, all-purpose kettle for various tasks like tea, oatmeal, or French press.
- A larger water capacity for family members or guests is essential.
- You prioritize simplicity, durability, and user-friendly features.
- You're on a budget and want the best value for your money.
- You don't need the precise pouring control of a gooseneck spout.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the main difference between the Fellow Stagg EKG and Oxo kettle?
The main difference is their purpose. The Fellow Stagg EKG is a specialty tool for pour-over coffee, offering precise temperature control and a gooseneck spout for controlled pouring. The Oxo is a general-use kettle designed for boiling larger amounts of water quickly and easily for various household needs.
Is the Fellow Stagg EKG worth the money?
For dedicated coffee enthusiasts who brew pour-over coffee regularly, yes. The precise control over temperature and flow rate makes a noticeable difference in coffee extraction and flavor. For the average user who just needs hot water for tea, it's likely not worth the extra cost.
Which kettle is better for pour-over coffee?
The Fellow Stagg EKG is unquestionably better for pour-over coffee. Its gooseneck spout allows for the slow, controlled, and even saturation of coffee grounds that is essential for a great pour-over.
How fast do they heat water?
Both kettles heat water quickly, typically bringing a full capacity to a boil in just a few minutes thanks to their powerful heating elements. The exact time depends on the starting temperature and volume of water.
Can I use the Oxo kettle for pour-over?
While you technically can, it's not ideal. The standard spout of the Oxo kettle makes it very difficult to pour with the required slowness and control, which will likely result in a less-than-perfect brew.
What is the temperature accuracy of the Fellow Stagg EKG?
The Fellow Stagg EKG is renowned for its accuracy. It allows you to set the target temperature to the specific degree and holds it there with minimal fluctuation, which is a major advantage for dialing in coffee recipes.
Which kettle is more durable?
Both are built to last. Fellow uses premium stainless steel, focusing on high-end craftsmanship. Oxo is known for its robust products made with durable plastics and functional designs that hold up well to everyday wear and tear. Both offer good long-term durability for their respective price points.
Do they have an automatic shut-off feature?
Yes, both kettles have an automatic shut-off feature for safety. They will turn off once the water reaches the set temperature or comes to a rolling boil.
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