It terms of functionality, a copper tea kettle is best for fast heating of water making it best for those wishing for properly made tea. This type of kettle has many disadvantages however, one being that it reacts with oxygen and thus requires extensive maintenance to prevent corrosion, the other being that copper is in high demand which makes the cost more prohibitive to buyers.

Glass tea kettles are popular because of their pleasing aesthetic value, but have many more disadvantages that make them a poor choice otherwise. The main problem is their high level of fragility, requiring one to be very careful with the kettle every time it is used. Another problem is that the glass heats at a similar rate to the water, causing the entire kettle to become very hot, a hazard for those who are in a hurry.

Stainless tea kettles are a nice compromise between the above two choices. Because stainless steel does not react with oxygen, it requires little care for years of enjoyment, and is much more durable than glass. Although it does not heat as well as copper, it is sufficient for boiling water, and can be a pretty decoration in ones kitchen.

In looking at these three comparisons it should be easy to see why getting a stainless tea kettle is the best choice. While it may not conduct heat as well as copper, it requires much less maintenance that copper and is more durable than glass, making the most versatile choice when picking out a new tea kettle.