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Bonavita BV382518V Review

A multipurpose kettle that excels at controlled pouring
Editors' Choice Award
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Price:   $120 List | $80 at Amazon
Pros:  Precise temperature settings, easy pouring, temperature holding
Cons:  Lacks an audible boil notification
Manufacturer:   Bonavita
By Nick Miley, Michelle Powell and Austin Palmer  ⋅  Sep 9, 2019
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Our Verdict

Regardless of what your hot water needs happen to be, the Bonavita will handle them with style. This model has continuous temperature settings (140° - 212° F) for loose leaf connoisseurs and coffee aficionados. Additionally, it has automatic shutoff and temperature holding features for those who don't want to monitor their hot water. The model's gooseneck spout and a well-designed handle will further appeal to specialty coffee consumers as these features facilitate slow, even pouring over coffee drippers. This kettle has a large capacity, which is great for multiple users. Our only complaint is that it lacks an audible boil notification.

Our Analysis and Test Results

The gooseneck Bonavita is unique among kettles as it can perform most specialty tasks with a high level of proficiency. The long, slender neck and beveled spout makes the slow discharge and delicate, circular pouring required for drip coffee a breeze. The large water reservoir and adjustable temperature setting make it great for specialty drinks and multiple users. The kettle has a sophisticated look as well, so it won't upset your countertop feng shui.


Boil Time


Our boil time tests are straightforward. We start by pouring four cups of 57° F water into the reservoir of the kettle. We then suspend a thermometer in the water to standardize our boil temperature. At our lab's location water boils on average at 201° F, so we use that value as our cut off. Finally, the kettle and a stopwatch are turned on at the same time. At 4 min, 38 sec the Bonavita doesn't claim the fastest time to a boil, but it's no slouch either.

The Bonavita provides all the adjustability that one could ask for in a kettle in a simple to use interface.
The Bonavita provides all the adjustability that one could ask for in a kettle in a simple to use interface.

Pouring


The main complaint about kettles — particularly the models with large water capacities — is that they are unbalanced and as a result, they are hard to pour in a controlled manner. The Bonavita does not suffer in this regard. Its gooseneck, beveled spout, and well thought out handle design makes slow pours a pleasure.

The beveled end of the Bonavita's gooseneck spout facilitates a steady even discharge of water.
The beveled end of the Bonavita's gooseneck spout facilitates a steady, even discharge of water.

Ease of Use Features

  • Temperature selection: 140º - 212º
  • Temperature holding: Up to 60 minutes
  • Automatic shutoff: Yes
  • Inside material: Stainless steel
  • Lid attached or separate: Separate
  • Type of spout: Gooseneck
  • Min/ Max capacity: 0.75L/ 1.7L
  • Water level indicator: "Min" and "Max" levels


Value


By our definition, a value product is one that offers greater quality and/ or functionality than its competitors at the same price. Alternatively, value may be added if the product offers similar quality and functionality but costs less than its peers. To be sure, the Bonavita is not an inexpensive product. Yet, the kettle checks all the boxes for general and specialized uses. Additionally, the kettle has a sharp look. Accordingly, we think that this machine is one of the better values in the class.


Conclusion


The Bonavita is a refined kettle that boasts ease of use across multiple applications. No other kettle in the class can make this claim. Regardless of what your hot water needs happen to be, this machine will meet and even exceed expectations. If you desire a do-it-all kettle, then look no further than this efficient kettle.

— Nick Miley, Michelle Powell and Austin Palmer