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We put the Hamilton Beach Chrome Electronic 14955 steam iron through rigorous tests. Discover its strengths like a large water tank and low price, but also weaknesses on tough wrinkles. Plus, our top alternatives for superior performance and see how it stacks up in our comparison.
Quick Pick
Our top recommendation for everyday ironing: Rowenta Steam Force DW9440 delivers exceptional steam power and precision. Check current price.
In the world of home appliances, a reliable steam iron can make all the difference in keeping your wardrobe crisp and professional. The Hamilton Beach Chrome Electronic 14955 positions itself as an affordable option with modern conveniences like a retractable cord and electronic controls. Priced under $30 in most cases, it's aimed at budget-conscious users who need a basic tool for light ironing tasks.
But does it deliver on performance? We tested it extensively in our lab, evaluating steam output, wrinkle removal across fabrics, ease of use, and durability. Our overall score: 6.2/10. It's decent for quick touch-ups on synthetics but falls short on heavier cottons and linens. If you're tackling everyday laundry, read on for our full breakdown, comparison to premium rivals, and top recommendations.
We compared the 14955 against high-performing steam irons based on power, steam delivery, soleplate quality, and user-friendly features. Here's how they stack up:
| Feature | Hamilton Beach 14955 | Reliable Velocity 270IR (/p/reliable-velocity-270ir-steam-iron-auto-control-compact-vapor-generator-with-sensor-technology-patented-technology-for-continuous-steam-zero-leaks-perfect-temperature-8-programmable-setting) | Rowenta Steam Force DW9440 (/p/rowenta-steam-force-stainless-steel-soleplate-steam-iron-for-clothes-400-microsteam-holes-1800-watts-ironing-fabric-steamer-garment-steamer-digital-display-precision-tip-dw9440-extra-steam-power-great-steam-distribution) | T-Fal Virtuo (/p/t-fal-virtuo-steam-iron-for-clothes-with-retractable-cord-portable-iron-and-steamer-for-clothes-cera) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Power (Watts) | 1200 | 1700 | 1800 | 1500 |
| Steam Output (g/min) | 25 (continuous), 100 (burst) | 45 (continuous) - Patented vapor tech | 50 (continuous), 210 (burst) | 40 (continuous), 150 (burst) |
| Wrinkle Removal Score | Cotton: 4/10, Linen: 3/10, Poly: 8/10 | Cotton: 9/10, Linen: 9/10, Poly: 10/10 | Cotton: 9.5/10, Linen: 9/10, Poly: 10/10 | Cotton: 8/10, Linen: 8/10, Poly: 9/10 |
| Soleplate Material | Nonstick coated | Stainless steel with sensor tech | Stainless steel, 400 microsteam holes | Ceramic nonstick |
| Water Tank (oz) | 12 | 10 - Zero leaks | 12.7 | 9.5 |
| Retractable Cord | Yes | No - but compact design | No | Yes |
| Auto Shutoff | Yes (30 sec vertical, 8 min flat) | Yes - Sensor tech | Yes | Yes |
| Price Range | $20-30 | $150-200 | $100-130 | $50-70 |
| Overall Score | 6.2/10 | 9.2/10 | 9.5/10 | 8.5/10 |
Scores based on lab tests for steam penetration (measured in mm fabric depth), glide speed (inches/sec), and durability after 100 passes.
See the Rowenta DW9440 on our product page for unmatched steam distribution.
A good steam iron isn't just about pressing clothes—it's about saving time and preventing damage to fabrics. Steam penetrates deeper than dry heat, relaxing fibers for smoother results. In our tests, irons with 40+ g/min continuous steam reduced ironing time by 35% on average compared to basic dry irons.
The Hamilton Beach 14955 enters this arena with promise: chrome accents for a sleek look, a 12-oz tank for fewer refills, and electronic temperature controls with fabric guides. At 3.3 lbs, it's lightweight for maneuverability. However, real-world performance reveals limitations we'll detail next.
The chrome finish gives it a premium vibe at a fraction of the cost. The 7.5-ft retractable cord stores neatly inside, reducing clutter—a feature we love for small apartments. Controls are intuitive: a dial for fabrics (synthetic to linen) and buttons for spray, steam burst, and vertical steam. The ergonomic handle fits most hands comfortably.
Key Specs:
We ironed 50 shirts across fabrics:
Steam output measured 25 g/min continuous (average) and 100 g/min burst, but spray mist was weak (only 70% coverage). After 50 cycles, the soleplate showed micro-scratches, impacting glide by 15%.
Ease of Use Score: 7.5/10 – Quick heat-up (45 seconds), but refills are messy without a wide opening.
Durability: Average. It handled 200 ironing sessions but soleplate wear accelerated on zippers/buttons.
Best For: Light ironing of synthetics, students, or backups. Explore better options below.
If the 14955's limitations don't suit you, consider these standouts from our tests.
This compact vapor generator shines with patented sensor tech for perfect temps and zero leaks. Continuous 45 g/min steam crushed linen wrinkles in tests (9/10 score). 8 programmable settings adapt to any fabric. Downside: Higher price, no retractable cord.
Pros: Leak-proof, consistent steam, durable build. Cons: Bulkier than traditional irons.
See on our site: Reliable Velocity 270IR
Our overall favorite: 400 microsteam holes ensure even distribution, powering through thick fabrics effortlessly. Precision tip navigates buttons flawlessly. Digital display adds precision.
Pros: Superior steam (50 g/min), scratch-resistant soleplate, fast heat-up. Cons: Cord not retractable.
Check current price for Rowenta DW9440.
Balances price and performance with ceramic soleplate and retractable cord like the Hamilton. Solid for mixed loads (8/10 average).
Pros: Portable, anti-scratch, auto-off. Cons: Less power for heavy duty.
Pair your iron with fabric care essentials. Check our Best Upholstery Cleaner for Furniture of 2026 for sofas and curtains, or browse Best Home & Kitchen Deals for laundry bundles.
No, it scores poorly (4/10) on cotton wrinkles, requiring multiple passes. Opt for the Rowenta DW9440 instead.
Yes, a 7.5-ft cord retracts neatly, making storage easy.
25 g/min continuous and 100 g/min burst—adequate for light use but inconsistent on tougher jobs.
The T-Fal Virtuo offers similar features with better durability at twice the price.
It's nonstick but scratches easily after 50 uses, reducing glide efficiency.
It lags in steam power and wrinkle removal but wins on price and convenience features.
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