Elite Gourmet EKT719 Dual Volt 120-230V, Travel Kettle Review

Recommended Accessories:

• Portable Pour Over Coffee Dripper
• Travel Coffee Filters
• Insulated Travel Mug
• Manual Coffee Grinder

After three months of testing the Elite Gourmet EKT719 across multiple countries, I’ve gotten to know this little kettle inside and out. Let me break down what makes it tick.

Key Specs:

• Capacity: 0.6L / 20 oz
• Voltage: Dual 120V/220-240V
• Power: 1000W
• Dimensions: 6.5” × 6” × 7.6” (16.5 × 15.2 × 19.3 cm)
• Weight: 1.67 lbs (757g)

The first thing that caught my eye was the sleek black exterior. It’s not just about looks though - the cool-touch design means no burnt fingers, even when the water inside is boiling. The stainless steel interior gives it a solid feel and makes cleaning a breeze.

What really sets this kettle apart is its versatility. The voltage switch on the bottom feels sturdy and clicks satisfyingly into place. I’ve used it everywhere from Tokyo hotel rooms to London Airbnbs without a hitch. The 360° swivel base makes it easy to grab and pour from any angle.

One clever design touch I appreciate is the retractable handle. It folds down for packing but feels secure when extended for pouring. The auto shut-off kicks in reliably once water reaches boiling, and I’ve found the boil-dry protection works as advertised.

While Elite Gourmet currently only offers this in black, the minimalist design should fit into most settings without standing out too much.

Having used this kettle extensively in various settings, I can walk you through its operation step by step.

First things first - that voltage switch. Before plugging in, flip the kettle over and check the voltage selector matches your location: 120V for North America, 220-240V for most other places. I learned this the hard way in London when my kettle seemed sluggish - turns out I’d forgotten to switch it over!

The lid opens with a satisfying click, revealing a wide mouth that makes filling easy. There’s a clear water level indicator on the side - I find it most accurate to check this at eye level. The 0.6L maximum line is clearly marked, and I’d recommend following it to avoid any spills.

Once filled and plugged in, just press down on the power switch. A small LED lights up to show it’s working. Here’s where this kettle really shines - it brings water to a boil in about three minutes, noticeably faster than many hotel kettles I’ve used. The automatic shut-off is reliable; I’ve never had it fail to trigger.

The 360° swivel base means you can grab and pour from any angle - handy when you’re working with limited counter space in a hotel room. I particularly appreciate the spout design, which provides good control when pouring into everything from mugs to my AeroPress.

One tip I’ve discovered: if you’re making coffee, starting with the kettle while you set up your other brewing gear means everything’s ready at the perfect time. The water stays hot enough for a second cup if you’re quick about it.

After using the EKT719 in various situations, from business trips to camping weekends, here’s my honest assessment of its strengths and limitations.

Pros:

• Global Compatibility: The dual voltage feature works seamlessly. I’ve used it across three continents without issues.
• Quick Heating: Three minutes to boiling is impressive for a travel kettle. My morning coffee routine hasn’t missed a beat.
• Compact Size: Fits easily in a carry-on bag, with room to spare for coffee gear.
• Build Quality: The stainless steel interior has stayed pristine, even with daily use.
• Safety Features: Auto shut-off triggers reliably every time.
• Practical Design: The retractable handle and 360° base make it genuinely travel-friendly.

Cons:

• Limited Capacity: The 0.6L size can be constraining when hosting others.
• Basic Features: No temperature control or keep-warm function.
• Short Cord: At around 2 feet, you sometimes need to get creative with placement.
• Plastic Components: While functional, they don’t feel as premium as the rest of the build.

Real-World Performance: During a recent business trip to Tokyo, this kettle proved its worth. The hotel room only had a fancy tea set - not ideal for my morning pour-over coffee. The EKT719 handled the local 100V power without missing a beat, and its compact size left plenty of room on the cramped desk.

However, when I tried using it during a family gathering in my hotel suite, the small capacity meant multiple boiling sessions to serve everyone. Not a deal-breaker, but something to consider depending on your needs.

User Feedback Patterns: The consensus among fellow travelers I’ve met matches my experience: reliable performance, good build quality, but some wish for a larger capacity option. Several mentioned how the dual voltage feature has saved them from buying location-specific kettles.

As someone who’s carried this kettle through numerous airports and train stations, I can speak to its travel-worthiness. The compact dimensions (6.5” × 6” × 7.6”) make it easy to pack, while the 1.67 lbs weight feels reasonable for the build quality.

Packing Experience: The retractable handle is cleverly designed - it folds flat against the body, creating a neat package that slides easily into a bag. I’ve found it packs most efficiently when wrapped in a small towel or clothing item, which also provides extra protection.

Durability on the Road: After six months of regular travel, including some less-than-gentle handling by baggage handlers, my unit shows minimal wear. The stainless steel interior remains unblemished, and all functions work as well as day one.

Space Efficiency: In cramped hotel rooms or hostels, this kettle’s small footprint is a blessing. I’ve used it successfully on narrow windowsills and crowded bedside tables. The 360° base means you can position it however space allows.

Travel-Specific Features: The dual voltage capability is the star here. A simple switch flip prepares you for different electrical systems worldwide. No need for bulky voltage converters that often cost as much as the kettle itself.

Practical Considerations: While the 0.6L capacity might seem small, I’ve found it ideal for travel use. It’s enough for two cups of coffee or tea, and the quick boil time means making more isn’t a hassle. The size also means you’re not lugging around more kettle than you need.

Based on my experience with the EKT719, it’s particularly well-suited for several types of users:

International Travelers: If you’re frequently crossing borders, this kettle’s dual voltage feature is invaluable. I’ve used it seamlessly across North America, Europe, and Asia without needing extra adapters.

Business Travelers: When you need your morning coffee exactly how you like it, this kettle delivers. It’s saved me from mediocre hotel room coffee countless times and fits easily in a carry-on.

Digital Nomads: The combination of portability and reliability makes it perfect for long-term travelers. One digital nomad I met in Bangkok had been using hers for over a year across Southeast Asia.

Small Space Dwellers: Living in a tiny apartment in Tokyo taught me the value of compact appliances. This kettle’s small footprint doesn’t compromise on functionality.

Budget Accommodation Travelers: Whether you’re staying in hostels or budget hotels, having your own reliable hot water source for coffee, tea, or instant meals is invaluable.

This kettle particularly shines for those who:

• Value their morning coffee/tea ritual
• Travel frequently between countries with different voltage systems
• Need a reliable but compact hot water solution
• Prefer to be self-sufficient while traveling

While the EKT719 excels for many users, it’s not the ideal choice for everyone. Here’s who might want to look elsewhere:

Family Travelers: The 0.6L capacity can be frustrating when trying to serve multiple people. During a family vacation, I found myself constantly refilling for morning coffee rounds.

Tea Connoisseurs: Without variable temperature control, you can’t dial in specific temperatures for different tea types. My friend, a serious green tea enthusiast, found this limiting.

Home-Based Users: If you’re not traveling regularly, a standard electric kettle offers more capacity and features for similar money.

Group Tour Leaders: If you regularly make hot drinks for groups, the small capacity and basic features will prove inefficient.

Better Alternatives For These Users:

• For families: Consider the Snow Peak Field Barista Kettle with its larger capacity
• For tea enthusiasts: Look into variable temperature kettles with precise control
• For home use: A standard countertop kettle will serve you better
• For groups: Invest in a larger-capacity travel kettle or portable water boiler

Remember, this is a specialized tool designed primarily for individual travelers. If that’s not your primary use case, you might find its limitations outweigh its travel-friendly features.

After eight months of regular use, including three international trips, here’s how the EKT719 holds up:

Durability: The stainless steel interior remains pristine despite hundreds of boiling cycles. I’ve noticed minor scuffing on the exterior, but it’s purely cosmetic. The voltage switch, often a failure point in dual-voltage appliances, still clicks firmly between settings.

Performance Consistency: Boiling times have remained steady at around three minutes, showing no degradation in heating efficiency. The auto shut-off triggers reliably, though I’ve noticed it’s slightly less sensitive than when new - taking maybe 2-3 seconds longer to activate.

Common Wear Patterns:

• The lid hinge has developed a slight wobble but remains functional
• Water level markings have faded somewhat but are still readable
• The power indicator light works perfectly
• Base connection points show no signs of corrosion

Unexpected Discoveries: During an extended stay in a hard-water area, I noticed scale buildup was less severe than expected, possibly due to the smooth stainless steel interior. Regular vinegar cleaning keeps it running like new.

This kettle has proven more durable than I initially expected, especially considering the abuse it takes during travel. It’s become a trusted piece of my travel kit rather than just another gadget.

Having used this kettle extensively, I’ve developed a reliable maintenance routine that keeps it performing like new. Here’s what works:

Daily Care:

• Empty completely after each use
• Wipe exterior with a soft cloth
• Leave lid open to dry thoroughly
• Store cord wrapped loosely to prevent strain

Weekly Cleaning:

1. Fill halfway with equal parts water and white vinegar
2. Boil and let sit for 15 minutes
3. Rinse thoroughly (3-4 times)
4. Boil fresh water once to eliminate any vinegar taste

Deep Clean Schedule: Monthly deep cleaning becomes essential in hard water areas. Here’s my process:

1. Mix 1 part citric acid to 10 parts water
2. Fill kettle and let sit overnight
3. Rinse thoroughly
4. Run two boiling cycles with fresh water

Troubleshooting Common Issues:

• Slow Boiling: Usually indicates scale buildup - descale immediately
• Noisy Operation: Check for proper base contact and scale buildup
• Lid Sticking: Clean hinge area with damp cloth
• Base Connection Issues: Ensure contact points are clean and dry

Travel Care Tips:

• Pack wrapped in a soft cloth
• Keep voltage switch clean and debris-free
• Check rubber seals regularly
• Store completely dry when packing

Following this routine, my kettle has maintained peak performance even with daily use across various water conditions worldwide.

While the EKT719 isn’t marketed as an eco-friendly product, my experience reveals several environmental considerations worth noting.

Energy Efficiency: The rapid 3-minute boil time isn’t just convenient - it’s efficient. Compared to my old travel kettle, it uses noticeably less energy per boil. The auto shut-off prevents wasted electricity, though I’ve learned to boil only what I need.

Durability Impact:

• Stainless steel interior means long-term durability
• Replaceable parts reduce waste
• No disposable filters required
• Built to last several years with proper care

Material Considerations: While the plastic components raise some environmental concerns, they serve to reduce weight and thereby transportation emissions. The stainless steel interior is fully recyclable.

Packaging: The packaging is minimal - mostly cardboard with some plastic wrapping. I reused the box for storage until it wore out. The manual uses recycled paper.

Usage Footprint:

• 1000W power consumption is standard for its size
• Quick heating reduces energy use
• Small capacity encourages minimal water waste
• No disposable elements in regular use

For environmentally conscious travelers, this kettle’s efficiency and durability make it a reasonable choice, though there’s room for improvement in materials used.

After comparing the EKT719 with several competitors and using it daily, I’ve gained clear insights into its value proposition.

Performance Value:

• Dual voltage capability eliminates need for separate converters
• Quick 3-minute boil time saves time and energy
• Reliable auto shut-off adds safety value
• Compact size maximizes practicality per dollar

Long-Term Value: The stainless steel construction and replaceable parts suggest a lifespan of several years. I’ve met travelers using theirs for 2+ years without issues, making the initial investment more reasonable.

Feature Comparison: When compared to similarly priced travel kettles:

• Better voltage flexibility than single-voltage models
• Faster boiling than most travel kettles
• More durable than plastic alternatives
• Comparable safety features to premium models

Cost Efficiency:

• Eliminates need for:
• Voltage converters
• Disposable water heaters
• Hotel room beverage charges
• Multiple regional kettles

While not the cheapest option available, the EKT719’s reliability and versatility justify its mid-range price point for frequent travelers.

Through extensive use, I’ve discovered several handy tricks that make this kettle even more versatile:

Packing Tricks:

• Use the kettle interior to store tea bags or instant coffee packets
• Wrap the cord in a figure-eight pattern to prevent tangles
• Store the voltage switch in neutral position during transit to prevent damage

Usage Tips:

1. Quick Cool Down: Fill with cold water immediately after use if you need to pack quickly
2. Perfect Pour: Tilt gradually at a 45-degree angle for optimal flow control
3. Quiet Operation: Place on a folded towel in early mornings to dampen noise
4. Maximum Efficiency: Pre-warm your mug with a quick hot water rinse
5. Scale Prevention: Let water stand for 30 seconds before boiling in hard water areas

Travel Hacks:

• Use as a backup water storage in airports (empty before security)
• Mark common fill levels with a waterproof marker for quick reference
• Keep a small bottle of citric acid powder for emergency descaling

Safety Shortcuts:

• Double-check voltage setting before each use in new locations
• Wait 30 seconds between boils for optimal performance
• Clean the base contacts weekly with a dry cloth

Multi-Purpose Uses:

• Sterilize small items in boiling water
• Heat water for instant heat packs
• Use as a humidifier in dry hotel rooms (with caution)

Based on my experience and common questions from fellow travelers:

Q: Can I use this kettle on a plane? A: No. Aircraft electrical systems aren’t compatible. Use it only with standard wall outlets.

Q: How long does it take to boil at high altitude? A: Boiling time increases with altitude. At 5,000 feet, expect about 4-5 minutes instead of the usual 3.

Q: Will it work with a travel adapter? A: Yes, but ensure your adapter can handle 1000W power draw. Most quality adapters work fine.

Q: Can I make tea directly in the kettle? A: Not recommended. It’s designed for water only and tea leaves could clog the spout.

Q: Is it noisy while boiling? A: Relatively quiet compared to standard kettles. About as loud as a whispered conversation.

Q: How do I know which voltage setting to use? A: North America: 120V. Most other countries: 220-240V. Check local standards before use.

Q: What’s the minimum water level? A: 0.2L (marked on the interior). Never operate below this line.

Q: Does it remember settings after unplugging? A: No. It’s a simple on/off operation that resets when unplugged.

Q: Can I replace the filter? A: Yes. Contact Elite Gourmet customer service for replacement parts.

Q: How long does water stay hot? A: Without a keep-warm function, water cools naturally. Expect about 30 minutes of very hot water.

After six months of globetrotting with the Elite Gourmet EKT719, I’m thoroughly impressed by its reliability and versatility. This kettle has boiled water in Bangkok hostels, London hotels, and countless places in between, never missing a beat.

The dual voltage feature has proven invaluable, working flawlessly across different electrical systems. While the 0.6L capacity initially seemed small, it’s actually ideal for travel use - enough for personal needs without taking up excessive space.

What really stands out is the build quality. The stainless steel interior shows no wear, and the heating element maintains its rapid 3-minute boil time. Yes, there are compromises - no temperature control and a basic feature set - but these feel like reasonable trade-offs for portability and reliability.

For frequent travelers, digital nomads, or anyone needing a compact hot water solution, this kettle offers excellent value. It’s not just another travel gadget; it’s become an essential part of my travel kit.