Smeg KLF03 Electric Kettle vs West Bend Retro-Style Electric Kettle

Both are 1.7-liter retro-style stainless kettles with auto shut-off, boil-dry protection and a swivel base. The West Bend adds a large analog temperature gauge and 1500 watts, so it boils faster and helps with pour-over and green tea. The Smeg KLF03 counters with a limescale filter, a soft-opening lid and the fit and finish buyers expect from the brand. Owners of both praise the looks; the Smeg draws more complaints about its finish and lid over time, while the West Bend's gauge is its main talking point.

• Choose the Smeg KLF03 if you want the pastel-blue retro look, a limescale filter and a soft-opening lid, and you mostly boil water for tea and coffee.
• Choose the West Bend if you want a temperature gauge, faster boiling from 1500 watts and a stainless interior, and you care more about function than brand styling.