The 6 Best Waffle Makers Tested and Reviewed
If you’re one of the millions of people who like to wake up with crispy-edged waffles, a good waffle maker’s going to be an incredible investment. No need to phone your local diner, you can make thick, fluffy waffles right in the comfort of your kitchen just by plugging it in and pouring in the batter, and all that’s left to do is topping it with some delicious toppings. As there are thousands of competing models on the market, we’ve purchased and put to the test some of the most popular waffle makers to help you find the best one for your needs.
After extensive testing, our team has picked the Ninja BW1001 NeverStick PRO as our list-topper, having excellent performance across homemade and boxed waffle mixes. But if you’re looking for something that can do more for the money, our upgraded pick, the Cuisinart WAF-300P1 Belgian with its premium stainless steel construction and non-stick plates that can cook four waffles simultaneously can be an excellent buy for larger households or frequent waffle cooks.
The Ninja BW1001 is an extremely bold departure from the traditional waffle maker design. Instead of opening like a clamshell, the batter is poured vertically down a receptacle at the top of the waffle maker. As a mid-range model, the Ninja BW1001 offers a compelling balance between great design and solid performance.
The Cuisinart WAF-300P1 is currently one of the most premium models that Cuisinart offers and comes with features that you’ll be hard-pressed to find in cheaper models. That, combined with its exceptional performance and versatile design, makes the Cuisinart WAF-300P1 our top choice for serious breakfast enthusiasts.
Ideal for feeding a crowd, this affordable double waffle maker can bake two Belgian waffles at a time. Though the results aren’t the most even or the tastiest, the non-stick plates and included drip tray make it a fuss-free option that’s especially useful for busy households.
Despite its budget-friendly price, this rotating waffle maker consistently produces thick, fluffy Belgian waffles with deep pockets that are perfect for holding syrup and any kind of topping you have in mind. The non-stick plates and attractive stainless steel design are added bonuses.
The DASH DMW001AQ, an ultra-budget waffle maker. As an entry-level mini model, it offers basic functionality and bite-sized waffles that, while aren’t the tastiest, will definitely pass with some good syrup or topping options. If you’re seeking a compact waffle maker without breaking the bank, it almost assuredly will outperform most mini models.
Fast, compact, and affordable, this classic waffle maker is a top choice for fans of thin, waffle house-style waffles. This model also comes with a five-setting temperature control knob to make it easier for you to get the exact level of browning you like, while the lightweight design makes it easy to store when not in use.
How We Test
Our testing evaluates waffle makers across three key areas: Performance, Design, and Ease of Use.
In the Performance tests, we use two different recipes to see how well the waffle maker can adapt to different styles of batter. We test each model with a homemade batter (compiled from cookbooks and culinary sites), then Birch Benders pre-made mix to represent both preparation styles that home cooks often use. Each waffle is baked for a specific amount of time, then judged for their color, texture, and flavor by a panel of chefs.
In the Design evaluation, we look into the build quality and all the essential components that make up the appliance from the waffle plates to the control panel. Here, we also take a look at things that would affect the machine’s long-term durability, such as its material (stainless steel versus plastic) – everyone wants a machine that can last for years before needing replacement.
Lastly, in the Ease of Use evaluation, we take a look at the overall user experience. How simple it is to use, safety features, and cleaning requirements are all factors that can make or break a waffle maker in this section.
For more details, you can take a look at ShouldIt’s complete testing and scoring methodology for waffle makers.
How We Picked
Our recommendations are based on rigorous testing results, with high-performing models more likely to make our list. Beyond evaluating performance, design quality, and unique features, we also consider brand trustworthiness and pricing to ensure you get the best value for your investment.
Ninja BW1001 NeverStick PRO Waffle Maker
Best to Buy
The Ninja BW1001 is an extremely bold departure from the traditional waffle maker design. Instead of opening like a clamshell, the batter is poured vertically down a receptacle at the top of the waffle maker. As a mid-range model, the Ninja BW1001 offers a compelling balance between great design and solid performance.
Things We Like
- Great performance for the price
- Compact vertical design
- Well-built construction with quality materials
- Excellent NeverStick™ coating performance
- 5 shade settings plus specialty setting
- Audible and visual completion alerts
Things We Don’t Like
- Handling can be awkward and unsafe, especially if you’re used to using traditional-styled waffle maker
The BW1001's most distinctive feature is its vertical baking chamber where batter is poured from the top rather than sandwiched between horizontal plates. Besides offering remarkably even heat distribution, you’re less likely to make a mess as batter can’t spill from either side of the machine.
In our performance tests, the BW1001 produced beautifully golden-brown, crispy waffles. With self-mixed batter, the waffle maker needed about 5 minutes to finish (there’s a chime to tell you exactly when your waffle’s ready). The results were excellent – receiving a total score of 9/10 – with beautiful even coloration and a balanced texture as well as well-developed flavor. The same goes for our Birch Benders waffle mix test, which scored decently well across all categories.
The BW1001's design feels premium despite its mid-range pricing, featuring quality plastic construction with stainless steel accents. The NeverStick™ coating is a highlight — smooth and glass-like rather than the rough, matte surfaces found on many competitors. And, through our many cooking tests, absolutely nothing could stick to it, be it food debris or leftover batter.
At 5.7 pounds and standing nearly 12 inches tall, the BW1001 is more compact than traditional waffle makers in terms of counter footprint but requires vertical storage space. The unique design makes it a conversation starter, though it does require some adjustment for users accustomed to conventional waffle makers. This is actually where it gets dangerous: the top funnel reaches temperatures over 300°F, and if you’ve used a waffle maker before, it can be instinctive to grab it instead of the side handle. Two of our reviewers learned this the hard way. While not an inherent design flaw, clearer safety markings would be appreciated.
The control panel offers excellent functionality with 5 browning settings plus a specialty setting for high-sugar batters. Combined with audible and visual alerts, you can count on the BW1001 to take the guesswork out of your cooking!
Read our full Ninja BW1001 NeverStick PRO Waffle Maker in-depth review
Cuisinart WAF-300P1 Belgian Waffle Maker
Upgraded Pick
The Cuisinart WAF-300P1 is currently one of the most premium models that Cuisinart offers and comes with features that you’ll be hard-pressed to find in cheaper models. That, combined with its exceptional performance and versatile design, makes the Cuisinart WAF-300P1 our top choice for serious breakfast enthusiasts.
Things We Like
- 1250-watt heating system
- Excellent cooking performance
- Includes pancake and panini plates for versatility
- 6-setting browning control
- Premium brushed stainless steel construction
- 3-year limited warranty coverage
Things We Don’t Like
- Takes up more counter space than compact models
The WAF-300P1's standout feature is its dual functionality with removable plates for easier cleaning. After a couple cooking sessions where the plates are looking greasy and dirty, you can press the side latches, remove the plates, and wash them as they are (they’re also dishwasher-safe).
Thanks to the powerful 1250-watt heating system, the waffles we cooked came out great. In our test using Birch Benders mix, the waffle maker needed only 3.5 minutes to produce some decent waffles with great coloration, texture, and flavor. The waffle maker scored an 8.6/10 in our test with a self-mixed waffle batter – one of the better scores we’ve seen so far from the waffle makers on our list.
Design-wise, thanks to the brushed stainless steel construction, the Cuisinart WAF-300P1 has a luxurious and expensive look to it, befitting its price tag. In return, however, you’ll find the WAF-300P1 to be substantially heavier and more robust than your average waffle makers, weighing 8.23 pounds and measuring over 9 inches wide. If you don’t have a lot of space in your kitchen or prefer something lightweight… This might be a problem.
The control panel features a precise 6-setting browning control dial that provides excellent temperature management. You can find bright red and green indicator lights that clearly signal when the unit is ready. The lights, combined with an audible alert, make the using experience of the waffle maker a seamless, confusion-free one.
Read our full Cuisinart WAF-300P1 Belgian Waffle Maker in-depth review
BLACK+DECKER WMD200B Waffle Maker
Best Double
Ideal for feeding a crowd, this affordable double waffle maker can bake two Belgian waffles at a time. Though the results aren’t the most even or the tastiest, the non-stick plates and included drip tray make it a fuss-free option that’s especially useful for busy households.
Things We Like
- Double-sided design is useful for making multiple servings
- Performs adequately on all performance tests
- Solid build quality for the price
- Easy to clean thanks to the included drip tray
Things We Don’t Like
- Bulky and heavy
- Tends to undercook the bottom of the waffle
We recommend the Black+Decker WMD200B not only for the affordable price but also for its quality. This is the model to buy if you want an inexpensive and well-built waffle maker that can deliver two waffles simultaneously. It's an especially great fit for large families.
Notably, the WMD200B is a rotating design with dual cooking plates. But while it can make two servings at once, its waffles usually don’t come out as uniform as those from other flippable designs.
This waffle maker has a notable tendency to undercook the underside of all its waffles. No matter what recipe we use, the bottom side of the waffle is always one or two tones lighter than the top.
And while the texture of the waffles tends to be mushy, the good news is that our test waffles were almost always great in terms of flavor. So, if you’re not particular about the quality of your breakfast waffles, the Black and Decker WMD200B should also make the cut.
The WMD200B is straightforward, mainly because it has no control function. Just plug it in, wait for the signal light, and pour in the batter. The lack of control functions can be a drawback for some users since it limits the machine's flexibility.
We like the way that the waffle maker handles. The baking chamber rotates smoothly, and the push-in handle lock is very intuitive.
The cooking plates can’t be removed, so they’re a pain to clean. Nevertheless, the non-stick coating on the plates functions well enough that we never had to deal with much debris or residue during our tests.
Read our full BLACK+DECKER WMD200B Waffle Maker in-depth review
BELLA 13991 Classic Waffle Maker
Best Value
Despite its budget-friendly price, this rotating waffle maker consistently produces thick, fluffy Belgian waffles with deep pockets that are perfect for holding syrup and any kind of topping you have in mind. The non-stick plates and attractive stainless steel design are added bonuses.
Things We Like
- Affordable
- Did well in both of our performance tests
- Overall design looks very classy
- The non-stick coating functions well
Things We Don’t Like
- Poor build quality
- The lid is dangerously loose
As one of our best-performing Belgian-style waffle makers, the Bella 13991 occupies a well-deserved spot on the list. Surprisingly, despite the high level of cooking performance and a reasonably attractive design, its pricing is still considered “budget-friendly.” So, if you’re in the market for a decent Belgian-style waffle maker, this is a good one that’s easy on the wallet.
As we mentioned earlier, the Bella gave us some of our best test performances. It produced waffles with great coloration and good texture and taste through two recipes. It was able to achieve this result in no small parts thanks to its flippable design.
The Bella waffle maker has a sharp appearance thanks to its mirror-finished stainless steel lid. The luxurious appearance belies a relatively modest price point. However, we saw many build quality issues when we looked closer at the waffle maker.
For example, the lid of the waffle maker is attached to very loose hinges. The lid rocks loosely back and forth whenever it is lifted or lowered. Worse still, when the top is pushed up, it doesn’t lean back at an angle and tends to snap shut unexpectedly. If you’re not careful, the lid can snap closed on your hand while pouring batter or trying to extract the cooked waffle.
Fortunately, most build quality issues don’t seriously affect performance or usability. The loose lid is a hassle and a safety problem, but you can just hold it open with one hand while you’re working with the machine.
Bella designed and built other parts of the waffle maker well. The waffle plates are coated with a layer of non-stick material that simplifies cleanup. The control panel at the top of the unit is easy to use.
Overall, while it is not perfect, the Bella 13991 makes good waffles and functions alright for the price.
Read our full BELLA 13991 Classic Waffle Maker in-depth review
Dash Mini Waffle Maker
Best Mini
The DASH DMW001AQ, an ultra-budget waffle maker. As an entry-level mini model, it offers basic functionality and bite-sized waffles that, while aren’t the tastiest, will definitely pass with some good syrup or topping options. If you’re seeking a compact waffle maker without breaking the bank, it almost assuredly will outperform most mini models.
Things We Like
- Does a decent job at making pre-mixed waffles
- The waffle plates’ non-stick layer works well
- Easy to use ‘plug-and-play’ design
- Great cleanability
Things We Don’t Like
- Unremarkable performance in the self-mixed recipe test
- Relatively slow cooking speed
- Thin layer of paint that can be easily scratched
- Many safety issues
The DASH Mini’s standout feature is its incredibly compact 4-inch cooking plate. While it won’t produce filling Belgian waffles, it’s ideal for snacking or making multiple waffles for a stack. Plugging it in, waiting for the light to turn off (indicating readiness), and pouring in the batter are the simple steps.
Our test results were mixed. The self-mixed recipe test showed uneven cooking with charred spots and undercooked interiors. However, switching to pre-made Birch Benders mix significantly improved results, resulting in better texture and taste scores. This suggests it’s better suited for pre-made batters than scratch recipes.
The DASH Mini’s design reflects its budget-friendly nature, featuring thin plastic construction with a paint layer that scratches easily. Our reviewers noted that fingernails could scrape off the paint coating, indicating poor build quality that won’t withstand regular use.
At just 1.3 pounds and measuring 6.3 x 5 x 2.5 inches, the DASH Mini is incredibly compact and easy to store. As expected, it’s spartan, lacking control features like browning settings, a timer, or audible alerts. Despite these drawbacks, considering its performance for the $9.99, it’s a reasonable purchase.
Read our full Dash Mini Waffle Maker in-depth review
Cuisinart WMR-CA Classic Waffle Maker
Best Thin
Fast, compact, and affordable, this classic waffle maker is a top choice for fans of thin, waffle house-style waffles. This model also comes with a five-setting temperature control knob to make it easier for you to get the exact level of browning you like, while the lightweight design makes it easy to store when not in use.
Things We Like
- Affordable
- Did a great job in our test with Birch Benders mix
- Fast cooking time (2 minutes)
- Compact and lightweight design is easy to store
Things We Don’t Like
- Poor performance on self-mixed recipe
- Heating element is too strong and can easily burn waffles
The Cuisinart WMR-CA is a waffle iron for classic-style waffle lovers. Considering its quality, simplicity of use, and resulting golden brown waffles, this device won’t disappoint.
The Cuisinart WMR-CA, so far, is the fastest waffle maker we have tested. It can serve up a 7-inch waffle in as little as 2-4 minutes. While it didn't perform well in the test with our self-made recipe, the WMR-CA shone brightly when pitted against the Birch Benders waffle mix. Coloration was superb in this test, along with texture and taste.
There is room for improvement, but the WMR-CA performs great for the price.
The design of the WMR-CA looks and feels solid due to the top part being built from stainless steel. Its bottom half, control panel, and handle are plastic, but fortunately they’re built very well and don't affect the durability of the waffle maker.
Its compact design offers a simple solution for families with limited cooking space. Plus, the WMR-CA is nice and lightweight.
The machine's control is intuitive and allows you to switch between 5 different temperature settings. The unit has two indicator lights: a red "POWER" light and a green "READY" light. The red shows when the unit is plugged in, and the green light will turn on when the waffle maker's plates have been properly heated.
Read our full Cuisinart WMR-CA Classic Waffle Maker in-depth review
Nearest Competitors
If none of the seven devices listed above suit your fancy, you can check out the other models on our list.
- Cuisinart Double Belgian Waffle Maker: Perfect for large households, this dual-waffle maker can cook two Belgian waffles simultaneously, significantly reducing breakfast prep time. Its mostly stainless steel construction gives it a luxurious appearance and solid build quality, though at 12 pounds it's quite heavy, and the lack of a drip tray makes spill cleanup more challenging. The Cuisinart Double Belgian was actually a top-list contender in the previous year. However, it’s since been discontinued.
- Hamilton Beach 26031: This flip-style waffle maker features a premium stainless steel design with removable ceramic waffle plates that are dishwasher-safe. Its flipping mechanism helps produce evenly-browned Belgian waffles, and the included drip tray makes cleanup effortless, though the spin-lock mechanism can occasionally be finicky.
- CROWNFUL Mini Waffle Maker: This compact 4-inch waffle maker stands out with its gorgeous patterned exterior and textured lid design, making it quite distinct among mini waffle makers. While it produces decent-tasting waffles at an affordable price point, the entire unit heats up significantly during use, making it a potential safety hazard necessitating oven mitts while handling.
- Presto Flip-Side Waffle Maker: Its clever design lets you effortlessly flip the baking chamber 180° using a hinge on a sturdy base. As such, this best side-flip waffle maker can save a lot of countertop space compared to flipping waffle makers, which tend to be larger.
Our Expertise
After 300+ hours poured into researching, unboxing, testing, and evaluating 18 different waffle makers from various brands and price ranges, the team has refined the methodology on how to best judge the quality and value of a waffle maker.
Our testing procedures are data-driven, transparent, and collaboratively developed. We establish most testing procedures in-house, consulting external experts when necessary. Each test is rigorous and transparent; we detail the process, provide the data, and present clear evidence. Since we are testing kitchen equipment, we have a team of professional cooks that help us evaluate the results of tests, including taste-testing where necessary.
ShouldIt's video series for waffle makers – hosted by Matthew – are favored by many for their high production quality and practical insights that go beyond standard written reviews.
