Haden vs Smeg Kettles

Retro styling links Haden and Smeg, but Smeg is the premium brand here. Haden's models run from £39 to £44, with the Heritage 1.7-litre at £42. Smeg's range starts at £119 for the KLF05 0.8-litre mini kettle and reaches £189 for the KLF03 1.7-litre 3000W kettle in white. The KLF04 1.7-litre with seven temperatures is £160 in Pastel Blue, and the WKF01 2.3-litre whistling kettle in Pink is £119. The cheapest Smeg costs £75 more than the most expensive Haden model here.

Haden's Highclere and Heritage kettles offer a 3000W element, a 360-degree base and an extra limescale filter. Smeg's KLF03 has a 3000W element, 360-degree base and limescale filter, while the KLF04 adds seven temperature settings, a swivel base, anti-slip feet and a stainless steel filter. The KLF05 mini has a 1400W element and auto shut-off, and the WKF01 has a steam whistle, cool-touch handle and removable filter. Haden matches Smeg's basic power on paper but has no temperature settings and no stainless filter.

Haden suits buyers who want a colourful retro kettle that is easy on the budget and coordinates with a Haden toaster. Smeg suits design-led buyers who want a kettle as a decorative centrepiece and are happy to pay for a retro 50s look with temperature choices. A couple who make only a morning pot of tea may be happy with the 0.8-litre mini, while a household that wants a traditional whistle on the hob will prefer the WKF01. Smeg is worth a closer look where the kitchen's appearance is the priority.

Bottom line: choose Haden if you want a retro 1.5-litre or 1.7-litre kettle for £39 to £44 that matches a Haden toaster, choose Smeg if you want temperature settings, a stainless filter or a stovetop whistling kettle and can spend £119 to £189.