Philips PerfectCare Elite Plus GC9682/80

My ironing is done much faster than before; Stiffs nicely flat even after 1 movement.

Fits comfortably in the hand and ironing is quick

Let me start by saying that if this is your first steam generator, you will be blown away and might get very enthusiastic about it. Ironing might even become your hobby.

Unfortunately for me, this is not my first Philips steam generator, and I am disappointed that after six years, the devices seem to be regressing in terms of development, especially regarding ease of use.

First of all, the tank capacity. The 2020 model had a tank capacity of 2.5 liters. Such tank capacities are no longer sold, and ultimately I chose this device because 1.8 liters seems to be the largest tank capacity available from Philips. Imagine my surprise: the device shuts off at 1.5 liters of consumption and refuses to function until the tank is refilled. With 1.5 liters of consumption, I can only manage to iron 10 large items. I have no idea why they advertise that this device is suitable for heavy ironing needs. Ironing half a laundry basket with that tank capacity is simply not possible, and I experience this as an inconvenience. Furthermore, the tank refilling mechanism is designed in an incredibly impractical way. With the previous device, I could simply pour water into the tank with a bottle; even while ironing. With this device, I have to remove the tank first to refill it. It is very inefficient to be able to iron just 10 items at a time like that.

With the previous device, I could set the iron down upright for a moment. The new iron must always be put down lying down, and that took a lot of getting used to at first.

In terms of price-quality ratio, I find the device disappointing. I paid 170 euros for the previous device for a larger tank capacity and virtually the same specs. It is probably inflation, but after six years, I expected a better device for 100 euros more. At least more improvement than just a 20 cm longer cord, a slight increase in the bar, and a significant decrease in tank capacity.

To conclude this review on a positive note, I must admit that the device irons wonderfully. Sometimes it even gets a bit too hot, so I will try to use the included glove more often while ironing. The steam can be very hot, and I have already burned myself a few times. I will have to adapt to this device and am prepared to use it up. It would be nice if this device lasted longer than six years. Should it not surpass the previous device in that regard, I am inclined to switch to another brand that might be able to meet the ironing needs here at home and the associated ease of use.

In short, as a newbie, I think you will be very happy with this device. As an experienced user, the device is a disappointment in terms of progress.