Toru vs MG32: Which Alessi Kettle Should You Buy?
By ALESSI UK: Italian Design Home Accessories, Kitchenware & Gifts | Published: 2026-10-21
Category: Comparisons
Compare Alessi's Toru and MG32 electric kettles: design philosophy, temperature control, and everyday performance to find your perfect match.
Quick answer
Choose the MG32 if you need precise temperature control for tea or pour-over coffee; choose the Toru if you value a playful, minimalist design and reliable boiling at a lower price.
Design lineage and everyday use
The MG32 is the fortieth-anniversary evolution of Alessi's iconic 9093 kettle, blending Art Deco and Pop Art influences into a familiar silhouette. Its new temperature-control feature extends its usefulness beyond simple boiling, making it ideal for teas and pour-over coffee that require specific water temperatures.
The Toru, designed by Nendo, takes a different approach. Its name means "through" in Japanese, and the handle doubles as a spout that runs through the steel body. This ironic, intellectual design softens the metal's refined aura while delivering high performance. It is dedicated to those who want a conversation piece that also works reliably every day.
Temperature control vs simplicity
The MG32's temperature control is a genuine advantage if you brew delicate teas or specialty coffee. Boiling water is often too hot for green tea or light roasts, and having precise control prevents bitterness. However, this feature adds complexity and a higher price point.
The Toru keeps things simple: boil water quickly and pour. It lacks temperature settings, which means it is less versatile for precise brewing, but it is also more straightforward to operate and easier to clean. If you mostly make black tea or instant coffee, the Toru's simplicity is a strength.
Trade-offs at a glance
- Temperature precision: MG32 offers adjustable temperature control for delicate brewing; Toru boils to a single temperature. If you brew green tea or specialty coffee, the MG32's control is worth the extra cost.
- Design statement: Toru's handle-as-spout is a playful, minimalist conversation piece; MG32's classic silhouette is more traditional. Choose Toru if you want your kettle to spark conversation; choose MG32 if you prefer timeless elegance.
- Price and value: Toru is significantly more affordable (around $124) than the MG32 (around $262). If budget is a priority, Toru delivers reliable performance without the premium for temperature control.
Key product facts
- MG32: The MG32 is the 2025 fortieth-anniversary model of the 9093 kettle, adding temperature control to extend possibilities beyond boiling. You can set exact temperatures for green tea, white tea, or pour-over coffee without overheating the water.
MG32 - Toru: The Toru's handle runs through the steel body to become the spout, an ironic design that softens the metallic material. Every pour becomes a visual statement, and the integrated spout reduces drips and simplifies handling.
Which one fits you?
Best for
- Tea enthusiasts who need precise water temperatures for different leaf types
- Pour-over coffee brewers who want to avoid boiling water
- Design lovers who appreciate the MG32's Art Deco heritage and anniversary edition
Not for
- Anyone who wants a simple, affordable kettle for everyday boiling
- Minimalists who prefer a single-function appliance with less visual clutter
