Best Waffle Makers, According to Professional Chefs

Whether you’re looking to cook waffles at home, at a restaurant, or anywhere else suitable for cooking (and equipped with an electrical outlet), a waffle maker can help. “The benefits of owning a waffle maker are quite simple, especially if you are someone who enjoys waffles often,” says Chef Andrew Thompson, Chef de Cuisine at The Ritz-Carlton in Sarasota, Florida. “Having a personal appliance is more convenient, allowing one to make waffles whenever they please. It is also quicker and allows for a larger production in a shorter amount of time.” 

In addition to Thompson, I tapped Yohann Le Bescond, Executive Pastry Chef at the World Equestrian Center in Ocala, Florida, Ann Ziata, chef at the Institute of Culinary Education, Jason Walter, executive sous chef at the New Orleans Marriott, and private chef and content creator Karen Rosenbloom of Karen’s Cooking to find the best waffle makers on the market taking features, size, and weight into consideration. 

What to consider when buying waffle makers

Weight

When buying the best waffle makers, it’s important to note that “the heavier weight usually indicates a better plate for the iron—your iron will also be a better quality and will not need to be replaced too often,” explains Le Bescond. Just make sure that you’re able to comfortably carry and move around the waffle maker you purchase—the last thing you want is to sustain an injury while cooking for yourself or others. That said, just because a waffle maker may weigh less doesn’t mean that its plate is necessarily inferior. 

Size

Size is an essential consideration to take into account, especially if your space is limited or your countertop doesn’t have much available real estate to house another kitchen appliance. (It’s also good advice if you’re also in the market for other small appliances, like blenders, air fryers, and toasters.) Although Walter explains that miniature waffle makers may be favorable in that they can be easily stored and are minimally invasive when it comes to countertop space, purchasing a small waffle maker may not be the most efficient for some people. “Single, mini waffle irons [like the DASH Mini Waffle Maker] are very cute, but remember that it takes about five minutes to cook one waffle,” says Ziata. “If you are cooking for three or more people, you’ll want something standard size or larger [like the Cuisinart WAF-B50 Breakfast Express Waffle Maker].” 

You’ll notice that many waffle makers on the market vary concerning their cooking area, with four inches on the smaller end and seven inches on the larger end. Neither side of the waffle maker size spectrum is necessarily better or worse than the other, as everyone’s cooking needs, space constraints, and preferences are different—it’s just a matter of knowing what you’re looking for (and what your kitchen can successfully store) before hitting the “buy now” button. 

Features

Not all waffle makers are created equally with their features. With that in mind, it’s best practice to create a list of non-negotiable factors you’d like your waffle maker to have. Ziata recommends looking for waffle makers with strong plates that can flip (if your budget permits). Additionally, “having controls for heat and time is a nice luxury, too, but is not always necessary,” says Le Bescond. Many of the best waffle makers also have dials or knobs that can be adjusted to alter the darkness of the waffles made. If the waffle maker you select comes with any additional features like dosing cups or timers, that’s even better, so you won’t have to purchase them separately. 

Our top picks for the best waffle makers

Best easy to use waffle maker: BLACK+DECKER Belgian Flip Waffle Maker

For a waffle maker that’s simple to use and makes perfect results, Le Bescond recommends Black+Decker’s Belgian Flip Waffle Maker. Although the heat level used when making waffles can’t be adjusted, this waffle maker can flip and has a drip tray to catch any excess batter, keeping your countertop clean. Plus, with a seven-inch non-stick cooking area and a lockable handle, you’ll be able to cook a lot—and do so safely. 

Specifications:

• Dimensions: 14.3 x 7.9 x 9.2 inches
• Materials: Stainless steel 
• Weight: 5.0 pounds
• Cooking area: 7-inch
• Wattage: Not listed
• Price at publish: $36.38

The bottom line:

Since this waffle maker can flip, is equipped with a drip tray, and has a light that lets users know when their waffles are ready, it can meet the preferences of most cooks, whether they’re advanced or just getting started in the kitchen. 

Get it here: BLACK+DECKER Belgian Flip Waffle Maker

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Best budget waffle maker: Cuisinart Round Classic Waffle Maker

If you’re looking to purchase a waffle maker without breaking the bank, Ziata recommends the Round Classic Waffle Maker from Cuisinart. For less than $30, this stainless steel waffle maker is equipped with a browning control, which you can toggle between its five shade levels to ensure your waffle is cooked to your liking. You also won’t have to worry about setting a timer since this gadget contains “ready to bake” and “ready to eat” lights that’ll guide you through the cooking process, from pouring your batter onto its plates to removing your freshly-based waffle to cool and enjoy. 

Specifications:

• Dimensions: 4.13 x 8.5 x 10.75 inches
• Material:  Stainless steel
• Weight: 3.84 pounds
• Cooking area: Not listed
• Wattage: 1250 W
• Price at publish: $23.96

The bottom line:

For under $30, this waffle maker is a solid pick for those looking to make thick waffles in various shades without exceeding their budget.  

Get it here: Cuisinart Round Classic Waffle Maker

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Best value waffle maker: Cuisinart Breakfast Express Belgian Waffle & Omelette Maker 

Whether you’re a chef or someone who simply enjoys the craft of making breakfast, Cusinart’s Breakfast Express Belgian Waffle & Omelette Maker offers a plethora of features that make it worth its $165 price tag. In addition to waffles, this 1400-watt waffle maker can cook eggs, sausages, and sandwiches, which is perfect if you’re looking for a versatile appliance. And, since it can flip and has two sides, it helps users cook quickly, efficiently, and specifically (thanks to the browning control knobs).  

Specifications:

• Dimensions: 10.88 x 16.5 x 10.25 inches
• Material: Stainless steel
• Weight: 12.4 pounds
• Cooking area: Not listed 
• Wattage: 1400 W
• Price at publish: $164.49

The bottom line:

This waffle maker is great for people looking for a versatile gadget as it can be used to cook a plethora of other foods in addition to waffles. 

Get it here: Cuisinart Breakfast Express Belgian Waffle & Omelette Maker 

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Best upgraded waffle maker: Breville The Smart Waffle Pro 4-Slice 

The 1800-watt Smart Waffle Pro (4-Slice) from Breville is an investment but worth the nearly $280 price tag for those seeking a waffle maker with several technological features and included accessories. Not only is this stainless steel and cast aluminum waffle maker complete with an easy-to-read LCD that contains options for making buttermilk, classic, chocolate, and Belgian waffles, but it also comes with a dosing cup so you know how much batter to pour to prevent unwanted spills. Ziata recommends this waffle maker, too. 

Specifications:

• Dimensions: 14.9 x 12.3 x 5.1 inches
• Material: Stainless steel and cast aluminum
• Weight: 15.3 pounds
• Cooking area: Not listed
• Wattage: 1800 W
• Price at publish: $274

The bottom line:

Even though its plates can’t be removed, this waffle maker is a great pick due to its advanced technological features and buttons. 

Get it here: Breville The Smart Waffle Pro 4-Slice 

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Most durable waffle maker: Presto Ceramic FlipSide Belgian Waffle Maker 

As far as durable waffle makers go, the Presto Ceramic FlipSide is one of the best. Since it’s made with a stainless steel exterior and ceramic (grid) interior, this rotating waffle maker can be easily wiped clean whether it is lying flat or flipped at 180 degrees. When you’re done making your waffles across its seven-inch cooking area (which you’ll know by looking at its countdown timer), this waffle maker can be locked and stored vertically next to your coffee maker and any other kitchen gadgets you may have.

Specifications:

• Dimensions: 11.25 x 11.75 x 4 inches
• Material: Plastic, stainless steel, and ceramic (grid) 
• Weight: 4.94 pounds
• Cooking area: 7-inch
• Wattage: 1100 W
• Price at publish: $59.99

The bottom line:

Those looking for a durable waffle maker will appreciate this one from Presto, as it has a stainless steel exterior and can be stored vertically. 

Get it here: Presto Ceramic FlipSide Belgian Waffle Maker 

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Best compact waffle maker: DASH Mini Waffle Maker 

Ziata recommends this Mini Waffle Maker from Dash if you’re looking for a compact gadget that won’t take up too much counter space. With a four-inch non-stick cooking area, it’s perfect for making miniature waffles whether you’re in a kitchen, dorm room, RV, or any other area that may be limited when it comes to space (or even if it’s not and you’re looking for a solid appliance to make some miniature waffles). All you have to do is plug it in and wait a couple of minutes for it to heat up before making some waffles using your recipe or one from its included recipe guide. Some reviewers have noted that the lid does get very hot, so make sure you have an oven mitt nearby for safe handling. 

Specifications:

• Dimensions: 5 x 6.4 x 2.8 inches
• Material: Metal
• Weight: 1.3 pounds
• Cooking area: 4-inch
• Wattage: 350 W
• Price at publish: $12.99

The bottom line:

Those looking to save space should consider this miniature waffle maker with a four-inch cooking area for their future waffle-making needs. 

Get it here: DASH Mini Waffle Maker 

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Best rotating waffle maker: Cuisinart Double Flip Belgian Waffle Maker

Rotating waffle makers like Cuisinart’s Double Flip Belgian Waffle Maker, which Rosenbloom recommends, is conducive to creating a more even spread of waffle batter and higher quality (and evenly cooked) waffles. When you use this waffle maker, you’ll be able to cook two waffles at the same time with a 180-degree flip and know when each is done by looking for the green indicator lights on both sides of the machine to signal. 

Specifications:

• Dimensions: 15.11 x 8.35 x 19.79 inches
• Material: Brushed stainless steel and plastic
• Weight: 1 pound
• Wattage: 1400 W
• Price at publish: $99.95

The bottom line:

This rotating waffle maker flips 180 degrees to cook two waffles simultaneously across five shade settings. 

Get it here: Cuisinart Double Flip Belgian Waffle Maker

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Best waffle maker with removable plates: Hamilton Beach Removable-Grid Belgian Waffle Maker

If you’re looking for a waffle maker with removable plates, the Hamilton Beach Removable-Grid Belgian Waffle Maker, which Le Bescond recommends, is the way to go. The ceramic plates are extremely durable, which means it will be difficult for them to experience any peeling or cracking (if any). And since its plates can be removed, you’ll be able to more thoroughly wash them with soap and water in between uses or by placing them in a dishwasher since they’re dishwasher safe (just make sure they’re completely dry before plugging the waffle maker back in). 

Specifications:

• Dimensions: 9.5 x 16 x 10.5 inches
• Material: Stainless steel and ceramic (plates) 
• Weight: 6.38 pounds
• Cooking area: Not listed
• Wattage: 800 W
• Price at publish: $59.99

The bottom line:

Made with removable ceramic plates, users will be able to thoroughly wash their waffle maker (plates) and do so regularly. 

Get it here: Hamilton Beach Removable-Grid Belgian Waffle Maker

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Best no-mess waffle maker: Chefman Anti-Overflow Belgian Waffle Maker

For a waffle maker that won’t leave you with a mess, the Anti-Overflow Belgian Waffle Maker from Chefman is a solid pick. Its anti-overflow technology that wraps around the crates, combined with its non-stick coating, will keep the batter inside your waffle maker and messes away from your cooking area. This appliance is also available in several colors that can match a variety of kitchen aesthetics. 

Specifications:

• Dimensions: 8 x 10 x 4 inches
• Material: Stainless steel
• Weight: 3.3 pounds
• Cooking area: Not listed
• Wattage: 700 W
• Price at publish: $29.90

The bottom line:

With wrap-around technology and non-stick coating, this waffle maker will keep the messes typically associated with making waffles to a minimum. 

Get it here: Chefman Anti-Overflow Belgian Waffle Maker

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Best waffle maker for families: Disney Mickey Mouse Double Flip Waffle Maker 

The Disney Mickey Mouse Double Flip Waffle Maker is a great option if you’re looking for a waffle maker for families or Disney lovers. Each of the waffle maker’s two sides is equipped with three miniature mickey-shaped waffle crates. Even though this waffle maker doesn’t come from a popular cooking brand, it rotates and is made with alloy steel for added durability. Despite the fact it may be a bit more difficult to clean (as some reviewers have noted), it’s worth putting in the extra effort to clean for the fun-shaped waffles it creates that you can top with extras you have in your refrigerator or pantry. 

Specifications:

• Dimensions: 8 x 14 x 8 inches
• Material: Alloy steel
• Weight: 7.8 pounds
• Cooking area: Not listed
• Wattage: 1400 W
• Price at publish: $89.99

The bottom line: 

If you’re looking for a waffle maker for a family filled with kids or Disney adults, this flip Mickey waffle maker can make up to six waffles at a time. 

Get it here: Disney Mickey Mouse Double Flip Waffle Maker 

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How we selected the best waffle makers

Expert advice

I selected the best waffle makers after chatting with professional chefs currently working across the United States. During our conversations, I asked them about what shoppers should consider when considering waffle makers to purchase regarding weight, size, and features. I also inquired about their waffle maker recommendations, some of which I included on this list.  

Design

Since most of the experts I spoke with noted how flip waffle makers tend to help people make more evenly-cooked waffles, most of my picks (give or take a few) are flip waffle makers. 

Easy to clean

Owning a waffle maker that is easy to clean makes for an increasingly pleasant cooking experience. That said, I selected some waffle makers that have removable plates (some of which are dishwasher-safe) and others that reviewers note do not require lots of effort to wipe away excess batter. 

Cooking settings

Since not everyone prefers their waffles cooked the same way, waffle makers that offer various shade settings were a priority when compiling my list. That said, many of the picks I selected offer a browning setting with between five and seven shades. 

Care and maintenance

Caring for and maintaining a waffle maker is important as you’re going to want the investment you make in your new kitchen gadget to be worthwhile. Although cleaning is a routine part of keeping your waffle maker sanitary and in good condition, “the most important part of maintenance in regards to waffle makers is to avoid moisture,” advises Rosenbloom. “Be sure to dry your waffle maker very well after washing.” 

Frequently asked questions (FAQs) 

How should one clean a waffle maker? 

When it comes to how often you should clean a waffle maker, Le Bescond recommends cleaning it after each use—once your gadget has cooled down and it has been unplugged from its electrical source. “Use a damp towel and wipe out all remaining outside baked elements,” instructs Le Bescond. “For the inside, spray a bit of pan spray, let it set to soften the remaining food, and wipe down with a damp towel as well.” 

If your waffle maker has removable plates, Ziata advises taking them out and thoroughly washing them with soap and water. However, if your waffle maker doesn’t have removable plates and you experience difficulty removing excess batter, she recommends pouring a combination of baking soda and vinegar over the batter and letting it sit for a couple of minutes before wiping. 

Which brand of waffle maker is best? 

There’s no one right answer as to which brand of waffle maker is best, as this is a subjective question. However, if you’re looking for waffle maker brands that offer good value and are recommended by experts, Le Bescond recommends waffle makers from Cuisinart and Black+Decker and Ziata recommends Breville. 

Why are flip waffle makers better? 

According to Ziata, flip waffle makers are better because of their cooking mechanism in that they ensure the batter is completely and identically spread on the bottom and top parts of waffles which is not always the case when using non-flip waffle makers. 

What is the difference between a Belgian waffle and a regular waffle? 

There are a couple of key differences between a Belgian waffle and a regular waffle. “A Belgian waffle is thick with deep, wide squares and is made with batter traditionally leavened with yeast,” explains Ziata. “An American waffle is made from a thicker, baking soda-leavened batter and cooked in an iron with flatter, smaller squares.”