Best Combo Boiler & Warmer: Zojirushi America Corporation Hybrid Water Boiler and Warmer

If you have a home office that is a distance from the kitchen, having a combination water boiler and warmer is most convenient. 

We tried a handful of brands before deciding the Zojirushi is the best bet. It provided the best quality and features—note the four “keep warm” settings, perfect for different types of tea.

Here’s more:

What We Liked

• Water heats up in minutes.

• Great for cup of noodles, instant oatmeal or tea.

• Stores water at four “keep warm” settings (160, 175, 195, 208 degrees).

• Digital readout is easy to see.

• Dispense button.

• Made in Japan.

• Clear window to see water volume in tank.

• Stainless steel body.

• Re-boil button.

What Needs Work

• Steam releases. Don’t put this unit under a countertop or cabinet, as steam may cause damage.

• Pricey.

Best Kettle-Style: Mueller Ultra Kettle 

Here at the home ranch, we love making fresh black tea—and a kettle water boiler is most helpful. 

We tried out several kettle-style boilers before deciding Mueller’s is the best of the bunch. In our tests, it heated water from room temperature to boiling in about 5 minutes. And best of all, there is an auto shut-off so you don’t have to worry about over-boiling.

What We Liked

•  Quickly boils water.

• Affordable.

• Thick glass and sturdy base.

• Auto shut-off when boiling.

• Boil-dry safety feature.

• Anti-slip grip handle.

What Needs Work

• Could be easier to clean. 

Best For Travel: Portable Travel Electric Kettle Mini Thermos 

If you plan to go camping or RV’ing, this portable travel kettle would be our pick for hot water on the go. We liked how easy it is to use—and if you don’t trust the cleanliness of coffee pots in hotel rooms, this one is a must for travel.

Here’s more:

What We Liked

• Perfectly sized for cups of hot water.

• Heats quickly.

• Lightweight.

• Compact size (7.6″ tall).

• One-button switch.

• Plastic body.

What Needs Work

• No auto shut-off. 

• A bit noisy.

Why Trust Us

We’ve been rating and reviewing products for the home and families since 1994. We do extensive research, evaluating products with an eye toward quality, ease of use and affordability. When we purchase a product for hands-on testing, we do so with our own money. 

Here’s another key point: we don’t take money from the brands we review. No free samples, no sponsors, no “partnerships.” Our work is 100% reader-supported!