1.7L Electric Stainless Steel Variable-Temp Kettle
£142.95
KitchenAid 5KEK1701BSX 1.7L variable-temperature stainless steel kettle — precise temperature control for perfect tea and coffee, with a durable, stylish brushed-steel finish.
Description
The KitchenAid 5KEK1701BSX is a 1.7-litre stainless-steel jug kettle with variable temperature control. It’s aimed at buyers who want greater control over water temperature for tea and coffee than a basic boil-only kettle provides, while keeping a classic metal finish suited to modern kitchens.
Key specs (from product data)
- Model: KitchenAid 5KEK1701BSX
- Capacity: 1.7 litres
- Finish: Stainless steel
- Product type: Jug / electric kettle with variable temperature control
Who this kettle suits
- Tea and coffee enthusiasts who prefer different temperatures for different brews (green tea, white tea, some filter coffees). Variable temperature is useful where a full rolling boil is not always required.
- Households that typically make multiple cups at once — 1.7 litres is a common “family” capacity that avoids frequent refills.
- Buyers who prefer a stainless-steel exterior that stands up to daily use better than plastic.
Capacity and everyday use
- 1.7 litres is large enough for multiple mugs — it works well for families, small households or when entertaining. If you routinely boil only a single cup, it may be over‑sized and take slightly longer and more energy than a smaller kettle.
- Practical consequence: filling only the water you need reduces energy use and speeds up boiling. Variable-temperature kettles let you heat to lower temperatures when appropriate, avoiding unnecessary full boils.
What matters about the variable temperature control
- Variable temperature control is the feature here — it should allow you to choose target temperatures below boiling. That matters for delicate teas (which can burn at 100°C) and some manual-coffee methods.
- Important checks before you buy (these details aren’t specified in the product listing): which temperature steps or presets are offered, whether the display is clear and easy to use, how precise the thermostat is, and whether there’s a keep-warm/HOLD function to maintain a selected temperature.
- If you need precision for specialty coffee or tea, verify the kettle’s stated temperature range and whether there’s a way to store presets or hold temperature — not all “variable” models offer the same level of control.
Design, materials and maintenance
- Stainless steel exterior: durable and heat-resistant. It wipes clean easily but can show fingerprints and watermarks; a soft cloth and regular wiping keep the finish looking its best.
- Interior material and scale management: the listing confirms stainless steel externally but does not specify the internal lining or whether a removable limescale filter is included. If you have hard water, check whether the kettle has a descaling recommendation or an accessible filter.
- Lid and spout: the model is described as a jug kettle, which generally means a wide spout for easy pouring; however, the listing doesn’t specify lid type (hinged or removable) or whether there’s an anti-drip spout — inspect product images or ask the retailer if these details matter for you.
Installation, power and practicalities
- Electric kettles are plug-in appliances; the listing does not state power rating, base type, or whether the kettle is cordless on its base. Confirm these practical details if you need a 360° base or a specific power draw for compatibility with your kitchen circuits.
- Noise and speed: no noise figures or boil times are given. Expect a typical kettle sound during heating; variable-temperature settings that stop short of boiling will generally be quieter and slightly faster than a full boil.
Things to know before buying
- Confirm the temperature presets, range and hold function if you rely on precise brewing temperatures — the product data confirms variable control but not the exact capabilities.
- Check whether a removable limescale filter is included and whether the interior is stainless steel (if hard water is a concern).
- Verify the power rating and base type (cordless 360° base vs. fixed cord) with the retailer if this affects your kitchen setup.
- Stainless steel shows fingerprints and may need more frequent wiping than matt finishes.
- If you only make single cups regularly, a smaller-capacity kettle will boil faster and use less energy for that use case.
If you want precision brewing, ask the seller for specifics on temperature steps, hold function and any visible display; if you prioritise robust build and a larger capacity in a stainless finish, this KitchenAid jug kettle fits those needs.


