TL;DR: When it comes to making quality pour-over coffee, gooseneck kettles are a must. Often considered an industry standard for pour-overs, gooseneck kettles are designed to pour slowly to ensure even distribution and a gentle steeping of your coffee grounds. However, technique is the most important thing to consider when perfecting your cup of pour-over brew. While gooseneck kettles are helpful, mastering a slow, tempered pour is the best way to achieve a well-balanced cup of coffee.

Before I became a professional barista, pour-over was what got me invested in specialty coffee and an elevated coffee experience. While simple enough, pour-over afforded me the knowledge, specificity, and patience craft coffee drinks deserve. However, it took me a long time to realize that certain kettles are better for making a batch of pour-over compared to others.

Whether you’re a pour-over pro looking to upgrade your old stovetop kettle or a budding coffee enthusiast hoping to learn the ins and outs of this tried and true method, we’ll be discussing some of the best kettles for pour-over coffee today. Let’s begin by discussing what kettle is ideal for pour-over as well as all of the things you should consider before purchasing your own.

And, if you decide to shop for a kettle (or any other coffee gadget), a Curated Coffee and Espresso Expert is standing by to help point you in the right direction. Let’s begin!

What Kettles Are Used for Pour-Over Coffee?

The general consensus and industry standard surrounding kettles used for pour-over coffee are clear: Gooseneck kettles are the way to go. While many novice coffee lovers may think gooseneck kettles are all about the aesthetic of these kitchen accessories, the design of gooseneck kettles is more purposeful than first expected.

With a thin, carefully curved stem for pouring water and even flow rates, gooseneck kettles earn both their name and reputation from this ingeniously designed spout. By channeling the hot water through such a narrow stem, gooseneck kettles control the speed of your pour when making pour-over or any other type of beverage that requires precision and time to steep.

While you can technically use just about any kettle for pour-over coffee, the results tend to vary if you opt for something that isn’t goosenecked. Even someone unfamiliar with making pour-over can accomplish a decent cup using a gooseneck kettle, especially once they feel the handle. Other types of kettles require a bit more expertise.

What to Consider in a Kettle Made for Pour-Over

Besides opting for a gooseneck kettle, what else should you consider in a new kettle for your pour-over brew? Here are some potential things to contemplate — or let a Curated Coffee and Espresso Expert guide you to an ideal kettle for your lifestyle!

Electric vs. Stovetop

Deciding between kettle types is likely the first decision you should make when shopping for one. There are pros and cons to both electric and stovetop kettles; it all depends on what you’re expecting and what you need for your lifestyle.

Stovetop kettles are typically less expensive and more compact, and they may even utilize less energy compared to electric kettles. But every kettle is different, and it’s important to make sure you purchase an option that works with your specific stovetop, whether it be induction or natural gas.

Likewise, an electric pour-over kettle is hands-free, capable of maintaining its water temperature with an integrated thermometer, and doesn't require a stove. However, their higher price point and potential difficulty when cleaning may make them less desirable. It all depends on your situation and needs.

Water Capacity

How much pour-over coffee do you want to craft in any given sitting? The overall capacity of your kettle may factor into your decision-making. Some kettles are compact and only capable of brewing 16 to 20 ounces at a time. Others are far larger, reaching a half gallon or more. If you know you want to make pour-over coffee for multiple people at a time or want a larger kettle for other tasks, the capacity of your kettle should be something you consider.

Ease of Cleaning

While you’re likely just boiling water in your gooseneck kettle, it’s important to consider how easy it might be to clean and if you want something dishwasher safe. Some kettles, particularly electric options, can be difficult to maintain and clean because of their construction, materials, and more. Pay attention to reviews mentioning cleanliness or other cleaning tips while you shop — it may take more than soapy water or gentle cleansers to remove stains from these kettles.

Price Point

It’s important to set a realistic budget when shopping for gooseneck kettles. While this kitchen accessory isn’t likely to break the bank or cost as much as the average espresso machine, kettles range wildly in price. Some simplistic stovetop options cost as little as $30, while others cost upward of $200. Choosing certain brands or styles over others may help you stick to a lower-cost budget, but make sure you’re still getting the finish and reliability you’re likely after!

Size of Kettle

While capacity is one consideration for you to make when debating the size of the pour-over kettle you need, the literal dimensions should also be something you contemplate. While stovetop kettles are fairly obvious in their dimensions, electric kettles typically come with a base or stand to power them as they heat up.

These stands are often compact, but make sure you measure your desired kettle area before making any final purchase. This is an especially good idea if you have a compact kitchen and don’t want your new kettle to take up too much countertop space!

Gooseneck vs. Other Kettles

If you’re still debating whether a gooseneck kettle is the right choice for your pour-over setup, now’s the time to decide. While gooseneck kettles are the most seamless choice when it comes to learning the ins and outs of pour-over as well as achieving an optimal pour, other kettles can work with the right technique. By opting for another kettle, you allow more versatility in your brewing and may save a bit of your budget to put toward quality coffee beans.

Remember: if you’re a beginner or doubtful of your pour-over skills, a gooseneck kettle will likely help you out in terms of frustrations, perfect cups, and more. But it all depends on your needs, skills, and desires when it comes time to buy your new kettle.

Here Are 6 of the Best Kettles for Pour-Over Coffee

Ready to check out some of the best kettles for pour-over coffee? Here are six outstanding options to consider. And, if you’re still on the fence, a Curated Coffee and Espresso Expert can help you with the details of pour-over kettles so that you can head in the right direction.

Overall Winner: Fellow Stagg EKG Electric Kettle

With seven attractive colors and the ability to program your kettle to any temperature with its heating element, the Stagg EKG electric kettle from Fellow is a top pick for pour-over coffee. Complete with a small footprint and beautifully functional design, Fellow has perfected the art of electric kettles with this particular model. While it’s likely on the higher end of the average budget, it’s worth the upgraded price.

With completely customizable temperature options and a quick heat-up time, the Stagg EKG suits busy households and pour-over novices. It’s easy to use, pour with, and maintain. While cleaning this kettle may prove difficult from time to time, the aesthetic and technological capabilities make it ideal for just about any home.

Aesthetically Unique: Fellow Corvo EKG Electric Kettle

Another option from Fellow is the Corvo EKG. While not goosenecked, this electric kettle is pleasing to look at as well as use. It’s an ideal fit for households hoping to use their kettle for multiple scenarios such as tea or French press. And, with practice, the Corvo EKG can be an excellent pour-over kettle as well.

Available in three colors, this kettle from Fellow boasts many of the same features as the Stagg. Without a gooseneck spout, the Corvo EKG maintains a more compact footprint and design compared to the Stagg. Plus, it’s quick to heat up and can maintain whatever temperature you desire, making it efficient and capable.

Best Stovetop: Fellow Stagg Stovetop Kettle

While the Stagg electric kettle is a wise choice for anyone seeking this type of brewer, they offer a stovetop option too. Fellow offers their Stagg model in a lower-priced stovetop choice, making it convenient and stylish for anyone seeking the Fellow brand but not in the form of an electric kettle. The gooseneck is just as capable as the electric option, and you can get this kettle in multiple colors too.

Entry-Level Price: Hario V60 Buono Kettle

Made of stainless steel and capable of achieving an intuitive pour, the Hario V60 Buono gooseneck kettle is an affordable choice for those seeking an attractive stovetop option. Sleek and intuitively designed, the Buono suits just about any budget and experience level. It holds up to a liter of water as well, making it capable of brewing an ideal amount of pour-over coffee, tea, and whatever else you may want.

Most Versatile: Bodum Ottoni Electric Water Kettle

Likely the most versatile and intriguing in terms of appearance, this electric kettle from Bodum doesn’t boast a gooseneck, which means you’ll need to perfect your pour when using it. However, the Ottoni kettle has built-in filters for deposits or tea, indicator lights, and auto shut-off options when it’s done boiling. Keep in mind that this kettle can’t set your specific temperature, something that can make or break pour-over. But the style and capabilities of this kettle make it worth considering.

Highest Tech: Fellow Stagg EKG Pro Electric Kettle

Only subtle differences exist between the Stagg EKG and the Stagg EKG Pro, but they may matter to you. Sleek, well-designed, and an absolute must for the pour-over aficionado, the Pro version of the Stagg EKG is equipped with WiFi. This helps it maintain both convenience and precision, constantly receiving updates to its temperature firmware as well as integrating seamlessly into your home’s WiFi so that you can program your kettle from any room.

Find a Pour-Over Coffee Kettle with a Curated Expert

Now that you know about some of the best kettles for pour-over, it’s time to purchase your new kitchen accessory. If you’re still seeking an ideal pour-over coffee kettle and none of these options fits the bill, reach out to a Curated Coffee and Espresso Expert to help you find your kettle match today!