It produced consistently golden waffles that were evenly browned and cooked through from the first try. The Black + Decker Belgian Waffle Maker is another solid option for a standard waffle maker.

This waffle maker was one of the most expensive units we tested but given its performance we determined that the extra features, solid construction and no-mess experience made it worth the price (particularly if you make waffles often). The Breville No-Mess Waffle Maker also comes with a one-year limited warranty. The manual provided clear operating instructions and tips, including suggestions for the recommended amount of batter to use (1/2 cup). Any excess batter was caught in the unit’s no-mess moat. As a result, the plates were also easy to wipe clean with a dry cloth. Thanks to the non-stick plates, the waffles released easily from the get-go (and no pre-coating with oil was required). The waffles also cooked quickly (just over three minutes on the highest setting we tested) and the unit also reheated quickly in between batches. This waffle maker boasts die-cast aluminum plates that ensure heat retention and even browning, and we found that at each of the three heat settings we tested, the waffle browned uniformly and was cooked evenly throughout. We loved that the machine had indicator alerts (audible beeps) to let users know when the machine is pre-heated and ready for use, as well as when the waffle has finished cooking on the desired setting. With seven heat settings, you can choose how light or dark you’d like your waffle, and we found there was enough variation between low, medium and high settings to satisfy all preferences. And it won top marks for being supremely easy to use and turning out consistently cooked and evenly browned waffles on a variety of settings. This waffle maker lived up to its name, providing a mess-free experience from pouring to cooking to clean-up. There are other features that may sway your decision too: indicator lights and alerts, timers, no-mess pour spouts, rotating plates, no-drip moats for catching excess batter and more.

Other factors to consider include price, how long it takes to cook, how easy it is to clean and how much storage space it takes up.

You can waffle other foods like potatoes, mac and cheese and more. Sure, classic waffles are the most common use for a waffle maker, but they serve other purposes too. These tend to be easy to clean with a simple swipe of a cloth. For anyone who finds their favorite waffle batter sticks to their current waffle maker, opt for a nonstick model. For thinner, classic waffles, you can choose a classic model.

If you prefer thick Belgian-style waffles, make sure to choose a specifically Belgian-style waffle maker. However, classic waffle makers come in both round and square shapes and now you'll find waffle makers in many other shapes like hearts, animals and more. We tested round waffle makers to test for browning and cooking across brands.

Nostalgia vertical waffle maker