Most people love a fresh-from-scratch, fluffy, and well-cooked waffle. Unfortunately, many of us only associate enjoying one with having to go out to a restaurant or cafe. But did you know that there are fantastic machines that can give you gourmet-style waffles from the comfort of your own kitchen? This simple option includes one indicator light on the top to let you know that it is preheated, but there are no other indicators that let you know the status of your waffle. However, it does have other features that we like, such as an easy-to-lift handle to keep your fingers safe. It also heats up faster than any other waffle maker on our list, taking just two minutes and 20 seconds. Do note with this option that it is a bit bulkier than other choices on our list. As a result, it can be a bit cumbersome for storage. However, it can be put on its side for better usage of space when not in use.

While the Krups Belgian Waffle Maker can make four waffles at a time, features cord storage, and is easy to clean, it falls short in other regards. For starters, it doesn’t have the most aesthetically pleasing exterior, and it took too long to cook the waffles, with about a six-minute cook time per waffle. From there, it takes a while to reheat between batches. Additionally, the lower heat settings result in very pale waffles and the handle also gets hot during use.Do note that with the smaller profile of this option, you really will not have to use much batter at all to make your waffles. In testing, we found that even one-quarter of a cup of batter was too much and led to spillage over the sides. Overall, we recommend the Cuisinart Vertical Waffle Maker as the best waffle maker for its unique vertical design, easy pour spout, and ease of cleaning. If you’re in the market for a more affordable option, the Cuisinart WMR-CA Round Classic Waffle Maker is the best waffle maker on a budget. For the lower price point, we appreciate that it includes features like intuitive cook settings, light indicators, and rubber feet.

In testing, we used three-quarters, one-half, and two-thirds cups of batter. We found that the larger amounts tended to have the most spillage and that two-thirds cups is the ideal amount to use to prevent spillage. It is also worth noting that this took the longest of our options to heat up, with a five-minute total time. In terms of functionality, this option takes four minutes to preheat. An audible beep lets you know when this device is ready to be used and it beeps five times with a green light when it’s done to let you know your waffle is ready. Once we began using batter, we tested to see how well the indicators could tell if the waffles were done, noting whether the waffles needed more time or if they were properly cooked. We then made two more waffles, noting details like how well the waffles came out, how much batter was needed, and how cool the exterior of the machine stayed during use. We then repeated these steps with the yeasted batter. Finally, we followed the manufacturer’s instructions and looked into how easy the machines were to clean.Like other kitchen products, waffle makers come in a variety of styles and materials which results in different weights and measurements. While more substantial waffle makers have their benefits in sturdiness, if you are someone who is looking for a smaller piece of equipment that doesn’t take up too much space, there are lighter options like the Dash Mini Waffle Maker Machine, which weighs under 2 pounds. Breville’s BWM640XL Smart 4-Slice Waffle Maker features an LCD screen that allows you to adjust your choice specifically between Belgian, classic, chocolate, and buttermilk waffles, and it also includes a custom option. From there, 12 different settings allow you to further customize your waffles in terms of how light or dark you want them.

In terms of functionality, this waffle maker features a light indicator when it is ready to be used and another indicator to let you know when your waffle is fully cooked. The waffle maker heats the plates to the medium settings’ temperature in just two and a half minutes—faster than some of the more expensive models on our list. It can also stand on its end for easier and more compact storage Red Power and Preheat Indicator Light: Power indicator light tells you when the power is on and tells you when the cooking plates are hot enough.This mini waffle maker comes with the ability to make your waffles in specific shapes, such as a heart or bunny. The result, in our testing, is a simple device that comes in fun colors and is able to make single servings and dessert waffles. While waffles are delicious and fun to make, a machine that is hard to clean certainly makes them a less enticing option. In our testing, Breville’s No Mess Waffle Maker is the best waffle maker out there to alleviate this issue, and it features a handful of other options that we appreciate. In testing, we found that this option does a great job of evenly and consistently browning the waffle, producing a great final texture. This is in part due to the even distribution across the plates with thermally engineered heating elements. It also features a moat surrounding the plates to catch excess batter for easier cleanup. A final simple yet excellent feature is the “bit more” button, which allows you to brown your waffles slightly more without having to restart the cycle.