This kettle works very well. The water heated very quickly and yes, the outside is cool to the touch! This is a very simple unit. There is just one switch to turn it on. You fill the kettle, pop it in the base and plugs it in. There's a little light that comes on and you can hear the water heating up. When it's ready, the light goes off. That's it! I gave 4 stars because I wish the base was sturdier since it is plastic. Everything worked perfectly and I really just wanted a very easy operation. Happily, that is what I got with this!