The debate between tea kettles and teapots has raged on for centuries. Some people swear by tea kettles, while others think that teapots are the only way to make a proper cup of tea. Therefore, tea kettle vs teapot comparison is one of the most popular topics among tea lovers. And, you have to consider a few factors before deciding which one is best for you. Also, tea kettle and teapot both have different purposes.
In this article, you will see tea kettle vs teapot comparison and when to use which one.
What is a Tea Kettle?
It is a kitchen item used to boil water to make tea. Also, you can brew tea here. But, usually, it is the best option for boiling water or holding the heat of boiling water for a long time. A tea kettle has no openings except a small spout. As a result, it will boil the water quickly and hold the heat for a long time. Usually, tea kettles are made of stainless steel or other robust material that can endure heat and maintain the heat.
Types of Tea Kettles
There are mainly two types of tea kettles available: stovetop tea kettle and Electric tea kettle.
Stovetop Tea Kettle
It is a regular kettle that you can use on any kind of stove. Whatever it is, a gas stove or electric stove. Compared to electric tea kettles, these are cheaper. However, a stovetop tea kettle takes more time to boil the water and is inefficient. The most common type of stovetop tea kettle is made of cast iron. Cast iron is a dense metal that heats slowly but retains heat well. That makes it an idle material for a tea kettle, as it will maintain a steady temperature even after removing from the heat.
Other materials used to make a stovetop tea kettle include stainless steel, aluminum, and ceramic. Stainless steel is a durable metal that is resistant to corrosion. But, aluminum is a lightweight metal that heats quickly and evenly. And ceramic is a non-metallic material fired at high temperatures to create a durable, heat-resistant product.
Electric Tea Kettle
It is an electric device that uses electricity to boil water. These kettles are made of stainless steel and can boil water faster than a regular tea kettle, making them efficient and easy to use. Also, you can brew tea more sophisticatedly in these kettles. Yet, it has a downside; comparatively, electric kettles are way more pricey than regular stovetop kettles. Some electric tea kettles have multiple temperature settings so that you can heat water to the perfect temperature for your tea or coffee. Others have automatic shut-off features, which turn the kettle off when the water reaches the desired temperature, so you don’t have to worry about it boiling over.
What is a Teapot?
A teapot is a container to hold and brew tea or coffee. After getting boiling water from the kettle, you can brew tea by mixing them in the teapot and serving it to the people. Teapots are made to handle the hot water to make a perfect cup of tea. Mostly it is made of ceramic, steel, glass material. And the teapot has a large opening for pouring hot water into the teapot to prepare tea. But due to the large opening, it can not hold the heat for a long time like tea kettles.
Types Of Tea Pots
Many different types of teapots are available on the market. Some of the most popular teapots are ceramic teapots, glass teapots, and metal teapots.
Ceramic Teapot
Ceramic teapots are made from clay that is fired at a high temperature. It creates a rigid, non-porous surface impermeable to liquids and gasses. The high-fired clay is also very absorbent, which is why ceramic teapots are so good at brewing tea. In addition, the porous clay absorbs the tea’s flavor and aroma, making each infusion taste a little better than the last.
Also, they are prized for their beauty. The natural colours and textures of the clay are enhanced by the high-temperature firing process, resulting in a variety of beautiful designs and finishes.
Glass Teapot
Glass teapots are made from heat-resistant glass and are available in various shapes and sizes. They are not difficult to clean and can be washed in the dishwasher. Glass teapots do not absorb the flavour of the tea, so the tea will not taste as good as it does in a clay teapot. They are breakable and should be handled with care. Also, it should not be microwaved or heated on the stovetop and should be washed with a gentle detergent. And, it would be perfect if you dried it immediately after washing to prevent the glass from becoming brittle.
Metal Teapot
Metal teapots are made from various materials, including stainless steel, aluminum, and copper. They are available in multiple shapes and sizes, and some come with tea strainers and filters that make them more versatile. It is trouble-free to clean and can be washed in the dishwasher. Also, it is durable and can be used for many years. However, metal teapots can interact with the tea, which can alter the flavor of the tea.
What is the Difference Between a Tea Kettle and a Teapot?
Since you have got an idea about the kettle and teapot, let’s talk about their differences.
 Cuisinart Aura Kettle. Source: Amazon |  Stoneware Teapot. Source: HomeHardWare |
Materials Differences
Tea kettles are usually made of metals. And stainless is the most popular material for tea kettles. On the other hand, teapots are ceramic, glass, and metals. But ceramic teapots are the most popular choice since they can hold the heat better.
Usage Differences
Teapots are better for making large batches of tea. If you’re making tea for many people, it’s easier to put all the water in the Teapot and boil it than it is to boil water in a tea kettle and pour it into the teapot. Teapots also tend to be cheaper than tea kettles.
Purposes
Tea kettles are used to boil the water and hold the heat. And teapots are used to pour the boiled water and brew tea. Also, it is used to serve tea.
Design Differences
Tea kettle is a small, round with a spout designed for brewing tea. It has a small whistling spout that allows the tea to release carbon dioxide and heat the water quickly. Tea kettle is perfect for brewing small batches of tea and is easy to use. While teapot is large and designed for brewing tea. They allow you to brew multiple cups of tea at once. Teapot is also designed with a spout to pour the tea quickly. Teapot is perfect for brewing large batches of tea and sharing it with friends.
Tea Kettle vs Teapot, When to Use Which One?
The tea kettle is an essential part of any kitchen. It is a versatile tool that can be used for boiling water, steaming vegetables, and making tea. It is necessary to know when to use a tea kettle and when not to. The tea kettle should be used when boiling water because it has a sturdy base. It’s better to use if you boil just a small amount of water. Also, when steaming vegetables or fish, the tea kettle should be used to steam since the tea kettle’s pouring spout is the right size for it.
You may need to utilize a teapot for a variety of reasons. Say, for instance, you are hosting a tea party and want to serve tea to your guests. A teapot is a perfect choice for this. You will also need a teapot if you are brewing tea to drink at home, but if you are just looking for the ideal gift for your tea-loving friend or relative, a teapot is a perfect choice.
Final Thoughts
Whenever someone chooses between the best tea kettle and teapot, then comes out of a tea kettle. Though it seems to be a biased decision, the versatility of use has a relevant reason. For example, a gooseneck tea kettle has functionality for boiling, pouring, and brewing (some brands provide an in build filter). So, you have it all in one complete package for day to day uses. In the salad days of the millennium, both products have aesthetic, aristocratic value and dependency on the formal presentation. So now you will decide up to your requirement and test.