Best Waffle Maker – Buyer’s Guide

Waffles make for a luxurious breakfast piled high with your favourite toppings. Whether it be maple syrup and bacon, a thick layer of Nutella or just a bit of butter, being able to freshly prepare it boosts the experience tenfold.

The big decision is whether you want a Belgian waffle maker or an American one. The difference between the two is explained in our buying guide, and once you have chosen, there are other things to consider such as how many you want to make at any one time, your ideal price tag and the storage space you have available.

These are our top picks of the best waffle makers around, and you are sure to find one which catches your eye.

The Best Waffle Makers – Our Top Picks

IMAGE PRODUCT DETAILS
  • Dimensions: 33.6 x 27.8 x 18.6 cm
  • Portions: 4
  • Power: 900W
  • Features: Choice of waffle type and darkness
Click for Best Price
  • Dimensions: H14 x W29 x D30cm
  • Portions: 2
  • Power: 1000W
  • Features: Choice of waffle type and darkness, timer
Click for Best Price
  • Dimensions: H11 x W25 x D29 cm
  • Portions: 2
  • Power: 900W
  • Features: Multi-use, non-stick coating
Click for Best Price

Best Waffle Makers

Sage BWM520BSS The No Mess Waffle Maker

Sage love intelligent appliances, and this one is no different. If The Smart Waffle™ iron caught your attention, but you prefer rounded waffles, then this option is your best bet.

There is still the option to choose the waffle type, and how well done you’d like it. The handy overfill moat will capture any spillages and cook it, so there is no waste or mess. The heating elements ensure even distribution throughout each plate, so there is no risk of one section being overdone while the waffle pockets are not cooked at all.

In all, there isn’t much difference between this model and the other Sage offering except the shape. This one is a little cheaper, though, which may appeal if you want to stick to paying under £100. And it prepares four servings as opposed to two, which could appeal to families more.

The plates aren’t as deep, so you don’t get waffles which are as thick because of the shape, and it is quite big and clunky. For the technology though, they are cons we can live with.

Specifications

  • Dimensions: 33.6 x 27.8 x 18.6 cm
  • Portions: 4
  • Power: 900W
  • Features: Choice of waffle type and darkness

+ Downloads

Sage The No Mess Waffle Maker User Manual

Download

We like

  • Four portions at once
  • Moat to capture overflow
  • Choice to make your waffle exactly how you like it

We dislike

  • Would like removable plates for even easier cleaning

Final Verdict

Some features make it better than its square counterpart. Others make it less appealing. Whichever is best for your lifestyle is down to you

Sage The Smart Waffle™ Iron

If you’re one who takes your waffles very seriously, or if you like the effort to be taken out of whatever it is you’re cooking, then the price is worth paying for this genius appliance.

Firstly, we said in the introduction that you have to choose between Belgian and American waffles. Once you’ve made your choice, you pretty much have to stick to it. Not with this machine, though. Because it is intelligent, you can input what you want, and Waffle IQ™ automatically knows the right cooking times.

Choose between Belgian, Classic, Chocolate or Buttermilk and the iron will do the rest for you. You can also choose your preferred colour and crispness, ranging from light to dark. The former is great for syrup and other sauces, and the latter is crispier and great for a bit of a crunch.

A big problem with some waffle makers is if you slightly overfill one section, the batter runs over the top and into the sides of the machine. These are unreachable and could potentially damage your device. This one has been designed with those mishaps in mind. There is a moat around the side of the plates to catch all of this batter.

It will also cook any overflow, so none is wasted. There is a custom setting if you’d like to have a bit more control over your waffle too.

We found that no matter our batter recipe, there wasn’t a hint of sticking or not turning out how expected. The lack of sticking is a good thing as seeing the plates can’t be removed, which we’d have liked for the price. But the design which prevents any mishaps means it isn’t a feature which is missed.

Specifications

  • Dimensions: H14 x W29 x D30cm
  • Portions: 2
  • Power: 1000W
  • Features: Choice of waffle type and darkness, timer

+ Downloads

Sage BWM620UK the Smart Waffle Maker User Manual

Download

We like

  • Timer lets you know how long it’ll be
  • Choice of waffle variety
  • Moat to catch overflow
  • Basic recipes included in booklet

We dislike

  • Price

Final Verdict

For some, it will be overpriced. For others, definitely a price worth paying. We are firmly in the latter group and don’t doubt it will last years

Salter EK2143 Deep Fill 3-in-1 Snack Maker

For anyone out there who loves the idea of a waffle maker but prefers multi-use appliances which help save on storage space and money, this 3-in-1 is reliable and incredibly easy to adapt to your needs.

It comes with interchangeable waffle, panini and toastie grill plates, so you can make whichever lunchtime snack takes your fancy. They are all non-stick, and as they are removable, they are easy to wash by hand.

There are power and ready indicator lights, and a locking latch which not only keeps everything safe but also allows you to properly cook everything through on both sides. The cool touch handle will let you stay in control.

Because of the design, if there is any overflow, it seeps down in between the plates and gets into places which are incredibly hard to clean. This means you have to be very careful when pouring waffle batter, but also when using ingredients such as cheese in toasties. After a few uses, you are not going to have an appliance which looks brand new anymore.

But the adaptability makes it a fab choice for anyone low on space but who wants a novelty item which will give the family a treat.

Specifications

  • Dimensions: H11 x W25 x D29 cm
  • Portions: 2
  • Power: 900W
  • Features: Multi-use, non-stick coating

+ Downloads

Salter EK2143 Deep Fill 3-in-1 Snack Maker with Waffle, Panini and Toasted Sandwich Plates User Manual

Download

We like

  • Price
  • 3-in-1
  • Waffle plates are quite deep

We dislike

  • Can get very messy if you’re not careful

Final Verdict

Not the most able at the job, but being able to prepare a variety of snacks with one single appliance is great - and the price is well worth giving it a go

Cuisinart WAF1U Waffle Maker

A ready indicator and quick cooking times mean your waffles will be ready in minutes with this Cuisinart appliance.

The plates are a great size for preparing thick Belgian waffles, and the non-stick coating helps with the cleanup and keeping your appliance acting new. Both plates are removable for easier cleaning and are also dishwasher safe if you like to keep things as easy as possible, although we would always recommend washing by hand to keep them in the best condition.

There are instructions on how much batter to use with each plate, and it is best to stick to this, or it will leak when the lid is closed. An overflow moat will capture any of this excess so it won’t damage the device, and the batter will still be cooked.

You have to keep a check on the timings yourself as there is no internal timer, but it will let you know when it is ready to use. A bit of experimenting to get the right level of crispness may be required.

It will handle both sweet and savoury picks which is great if you want to experiment. We did find that some of the savoury recipes expanded quite a lot though, and as the lid clips shut for more even cooking, this can put too much pressure on the lock.

It is mid-priced, and there are plenty of cheaper options out there. But how easy it is to use and how reliable the results are means it won’t be money wasted. Plus, it has the overflow moat which makes the much more expensive Sage models stand out.

Specifications

  • Dimensions: H12cm x W28 x D24cm
  • Portions: 2
  • Power: 1000W
  • Features: Removable plates

+ Downloads

Cuisinart WAF1U Waffle Maker User Manual

Download

We like

  • Removable plates for cleaning
  • Overflow moat

We dislike

  • Slow heat up time

Final Verdict

We have a few niggles with it, but once you get used to how it works, it gives reliable results, and the clean up is easy

Breville VST072 Waffle Maker

Able to prepare thick, fluffy Belgian waffles in minutes, this Breville offering is easy to use and makes the possibility of fresh waffles within everyone’s reach.

The Duraceramic coating provides a better heat transfer than the usual non-stick surfaces. This helps to achieve that crispy outer and soft inner. This helps get your waffles ready up to 20% faster than rivals. Plus, it won’t peel, flake or burn, and the likelihood of sticking is reduced.

If you do need to give the plates a bit of a scrub, they are fully removable. You can wash by hand without any worry of damaging the electrics. Storage is easy, thanks to the cord storage, handle lock and flat rear panel design, so everything is neat.

It is a two portion appliance, so if you have a large hungry family it could take a while to get everyone fed. But it is ideal for smaller households or if it is just for giving the kids a breakfast treat at the weekend.

Specifications

  • Dimensions: 9.4 x 23.5 x 27.6 cm
  • Portions: 2
  • Power: 850 W
  • Features: Non-stick plates, removable plates, temperature indicator

+ Downloads

BREVILLE VST072 Waffle Maker User Manual

Download

We like

  • Easy to clean
  • Ready to cook indicator
  • Stylish

We dislike

  • A lot of steam leaves when opened - be aware

Final Verdict

Simple with no frills but easy to use and great if it is more of a novelty than a constantly used appliance

American Originals Flip Over Waffle Maker

The idea behind this ‘Flip Over’ model is that you can rotate it halfway through cooking for a more consistent and even result.

A lot of other irons can struggle with thorough cooking and need fully pressing down and locking for the upper section to cook. Even then, results can be varied. The ability to flip this model over 180 degrees ensures a more thorough bake.

It makes two waffles at once, and we loved the elongated design as opposed to having the waffles side by side. This doesn’t necessarily make it any easier to use, but if you struggle with storage space, the shape is a lot more accommodating.

To say it is a bit of a budget pick, using it is pretty foolproof. The results are also great, and waffles only take around two minutes to cook so even though it just makes two at once, you won’t have to wait long to get the next batch on the go.

It is vital to flip it for the best results, so if you’re after one which requires absolutely no attention during cooking, then it isn’t ideal. Getting perfect results takes a bit of practice, but for a first waffle maker or one which is more of a novelty than a serious cooking appliance, it is fantastic.

Specifications

  • Dimensions: H9.5 x W13 x D31cm
  • Portions: 2
  • Power: 700W
  • Features: Non-stick plates

We like

  • Price
  • Compact design
  • Easy to use

We dislike

  • Difficult to clean if batter spills over edges

Final Verdict

Great price, and the cool touch casing helps keep things safe if the whole family are getting involved. A fab offering for anyone not taking waffle making too seriously

American Originals Bubble Waffle Maker

Bubble waffles are a trendy snack which exploded onto the scene thanks to several pop-up cafes dedicated to them and their Instagrammable looks. No surprise then that you can now make them in the comfort of your own home.

A bubble waffle is like a wrap, which surrounds fillings rather than having to pile them on top. Great for parties or sweet treats on the weekend with the family. You get 20 card holders included with the appliance so you can get going straight away.

The outside gets quite hot to touch when it is in use. A lot of steam is also released, so you have to be careful. Overfilling with mixture is also risky. It goes everywhere when the lid is pressed down and can even get into the gap between the plates and casing. This is pretty much impossible to then clean.

Overall, it is a fun bit of kit. The waffles aren’t as large as those you’d buy in a dedicated waffle bar. If you’ve never had them before, don’t expect quite the same texture as an ordinary waffle either. But if a bubble waffle is your regular order in your local dessert bar and the cost is mounting up, it is well worth trying to make your own at home.

Specifications

  • Dimensions: H9.5 x W18.2 x D23.6cm
  • Portions: 1
  • Power: 1000W
  • Features: Non-stick plates

We like

  • Price
  • Recipes and serving suggestions included
  • Patterned holding cones included

We dislike

  • Can get messy in use

Final Verdict

Quite a novelty, but at the same time is reliable and comes in at a great price

Russell Hobbs RU-24540 3-in-1

Another 3-in-1 appliance which prepares waffles, paninis and toasties at the change of a plate. Perfect for those kitchens already packed to the limits with cooking gadgets and devices.

The non-stick plates seem effective to get food out with no trouble, even with the more difficult ingredients such as cheese. Because they are interchangeable, they can be removed to be washed by hand if there are some more stubborn areas. They are not suitable for the dishwasher, however.

Removing the plates is done by lifting up two retention clips, and they then just fall out with ease. It can be stored upright, and there is a cord tidy function. Things are kept neat and it makes it ideal for smaller kitchens.

There is only one temperature setting, and we realised that this means you need to practice preparing each varying snack. It is perfect for crispy toasties with some time spent but getting the waffles right takes a few goes. We think this is because it doesn’t really get hot enough, and the wattage is not as high as with the dedicated models.

We would also say that if you’re preparing a panini or toastie, don’t overfill and try and keep fillings in the centre of the sandwich. If it starts to ooze out, it can get into the gaps between the plate and casing. This makes it difficult to clean.

Specifications

  • Dimensions: 23.2 x 25 x 10.5 cm
  • Portions: 2
  • Power: 750W
  • Features: Indicator lights, non-stick plates

+ Downloads

Russell Hobbs RU-24540 3-in-1 Waffle Maker User Manual

Download

We like

  • Interchangeable plates
  • Easy clean coating
  • Thermo-insulated handle

We dislike

  • Temperature and power means it isn’t the easiest to use

Final Verdict

A fun idea, with some design flaws which make it a little tricky to use. Once you get used to all of the different functions though, it is a handy multi-use option

VonShef Round Waffle Maker

If you want a waffle iron which is large enough to feed a family and also doesn’t cost the earth to buy, then this model is ideal.

It produces two portions of round waffles at once, cutting down the time you spend preparing the waffles. All you need to do is pour in the batter, and the automatic temperature control adjusts the settings on your behalf to give the best results.

A cool touch handle lets you check on the progress of the waffles and also remove them safely. The ready pilot light will tell you when you need to pour, and non-stick plates are simple to clean with a wipe when cool. They aren’t removable, but we found no issues with this.

Even though it prepares a generous amount of waffle, the design is surprisingly compact so shouldn’t be too much of an issue to store.

We did find it struggled with cooking the top half of the waffle unless we pressed down on the lid, which isn’t ideal if you want an appliance which requires no effort or the most perfect results with each go.

But for the price, and the ease of cleaning, the little extra effort it takes to get the best results is nothing in comparison. If you want a waffle maker you can use every day, then it may get a bit tiresome, but for the novelty aspect, the price is worth the risk.

Specifications

  • Dimensions: 34 x 23.5 x 12 cm
  • Portions: 2
  • Power: 1200W
  • Features: Non-stick coating, ready indicator

We like

  • Price
  • Design

We dislike

  • Not one to be left to its own devices

Final Verdict

The price, cleaning and capacity are all top-notch, and even though it is not the easiest to use, this all still balances out to offer a fantastic product

VonShef Large Waffle Maker

Auto temperature control, non-stick plates, four portion sections and a cool touch handle make this waffle maker easy to use, easy to clean, safe and perfect for larger servings.

The waffles are both a good size and a nice medium thickness, perhaps somewhere in between American and Belgian. It cooked both sweet and savoury waffles well, with minimal sticking and even cooking.

It gets very hot and is powerful, so waffles are ready in no time and are fluffy on the inside but crispy on the outer as a result. When the appliance is ready to use, the ready indicator switches off, so you know when you’re good to go.

There is no locking ability, so you have to press down to ensure the top is well cooked, and if you lift it up when not in use it can flip open. We’d also like it if the plates were a bit deeper so you could make them thicker if wished.

Specifications

  • Dimensions: 32.2 x 24.6 x 9.7 cm
  • Portions: 4
  • Power: 1100W
  • Features: Auto temperature control, non-stick plates

We like

  • Simple to wipe clean
  • Price

We dislike

  • Easy to overfill and gets a bit messy

Final Verdict

The price is reasonable for what you get - it isn’t perfect, but does the job

Waffle Maker Buying Guide

Belgian Waffles Or American Waffles?

The Belgian waffle is the thicker of the two. It has a fluffier texture which is better for absorbing syrups and sauces, and deeper waffle pockets to accommodate more filling. American waffles (often also referred to as Classic) are thinner, crispier, and not as permeable to syrup so best for eating with spreads.

There are also bubble waffles available, which have a design almost like bubble wrap. Pockets of light, fluffy waffle mix separated by crispier bases mean they have the texture of both waffle variations in one. They are designed to be filled with toppings in a wrap formation as opposed to being topped.

Features To Look Out For

Non-Stick Coating

Waffles can be hard to cook, and just as with any other batter-based treat, are prone to sticking to hot surfaces, especially if they include sugar. A non-stick coating should reduce this likelihood and make it easier to clean

Removable Plates

If the plates are removable, this makes cleaning easier thanks to the ability to wash them by hand as opposed to just wiping them. It will also help if there are any spillages and batter in between the plates

Portions

Waffle makers can take anywhere up to ten minutes to heat up and cook the batter, so if you have a large family to feed but can only prepare two servings at a time, this could be time-consuming. There are some four portion options out there which may be best

Timer

Waffle makers don’t just turn off as a toaster would. You have to listen out for a timer alert, such as a beep or alarm, to let you know the waffle is ready and you then need to get it out as quickly as possible to prevent it getting overdone. Some of the cheaper models don’t have alarms though so you’ll need to monitor it yourself

Price

You can get a perfectly suitable waffle maker for around £25, but these tend to have fewer customisation options compared to those at the higher end which are over £100.

If you spend a bit more, you may be able to choose the browning level, thickness of your waffle, and also receive alerts when your waffle is done. Perfect if you’re going to be using it often. If it is just an occasional appliance, however, one at the lower end of the price scale will likely be perfectly sufficient.

Stove Top Waffle Makers

An alternative to the electronic models we have reviewed. These waffle irons can work on pretty much any stovetop type, they’re usually less bulky and can be easily washed.

However, they’re a lot harder to monitor and get good results from, and many retail at pretty much the same price as the cheaper electronic options so having a lot of the work done for you is worth going for the latter.

FAQs

Are Waffle Makers Easy To Clean?

All models will have different requirements such as the cleaning products which can be used, and whether the plates are removable and dishwasher safe. Always follow the instructions dedicated to your model in the user manual.

As a general rule, though, most can just be wiped clean with some water and a damp cloth. Leave to dry before using again.

Should I Look For A Rotating Waffle Maker?

A waffle maker which flips or can be rotated could produce better results than one which doesn’t, as it spreads out the batter and evenly cooks it on each side.

However, thanks to modern technology, many of the models now available do this perfectly well without flipping thanks to the even heat distribution in the base and lid. A few which we reviewed needed some more work in this department, and those at the higher end of the scale often performed better, but the rotating feature is not essential.

Will I Be Able To Freeze Ready-Made Waffles?

If you are one to prepare ahead and batch cook, then you may want to make a weeks-worth of waffles in one go. Many recipes will be freezable and then able to be heated up in the toaster or under the grill, just like with supermarket-bought variations. Do check recipes though, in case there are any ingredients which mean this isn’t possible.

Appliance Reviewer
Logo