The best waffle makers: Win breakfast

The All-Clad Classic Round Waffle Maker is the perfect pick when you want high performance with affordability and durability. This round waffle maker is made of stainless steel and weighs just three pounds but does not skimp on the extras. It only makes one waffle at a time, but each one is large with four ready-to-cut sections. Seven adjustable shade settings allow you to toast your waffle exactly to your tastes. The built-in steam-release system is fantastic for consistent cooking every time, delivering crispy waffles that are soft inside. 

The unit features a PFOA-free non-stick cooking surface, so removal is easy. The automatic alerts help ensure fool-proof cooking, letting you know when you need to add batter or remove your waffle after cooking. There is also an additional indicator timer that is equipped with dual light and sound notifications, so you do not risk overcooking your waffle. The waffle maker will sound when it is preheated and again when your waffle is ready. 

Pros:

• 7 browning settings
• Dual LED light indicators
• Nonstick plates with overflow tray

Cons:

• One waffle at a time 
• Higher priced
• Requires more space

Breville is a well-known name in kitchen appliances, and it does not disappoint with its Smart Waffle Pro. This oversized waffle maker can produce up to four waffles at a time with 12 cooking settings and a built-in LCD display, so you know exactly how much time is left before you can sink your teeth into a perfectly-cooked waffle. 

The Smart Waffle Pro cooks your waffle to your preferred shade and toast level using its signature Waffle IQ, and Thermal Pro Even Heat technology. This smart automation feature is able to automatically adjust itself based on the exact item you are cooking. You can easily set the style of your waffle to accommodate different types, like Belgian, buttermilk, and even your basic Classic waffle. If you like chocolate waffles, there is a setting for that, too. Either way, you have a choice of several cooking settings with an automatic countdown timer to show progress. The LCD display will turn orange to let you know that cooking is in progress. If your waffle is almost done but could use just a little more cooking time, the convenient A Bit More button offers a shortened cooking cycle to perfect your waffle.  

The brushed stainless steel design is a welcome aesthetic for your countertop, and the built-in moat will help keep things clean and tidy by catching any extra errant batter. 

Pros:

• The signature Waffle IQ system
• Accommodates 4 slices
• LCD indicator

Cons:

• Expensive model
• Requires extra counter space
• Heavier weight

The Cuisinart Classic Round Waffle Maker boasts the traditional design that waffle makers are known for, adding a non-stick cook plate and BPA-free materials to keep you and your family safe. It makes one waffle at a time with a quarter-slice design that conveniently cuts your waffle into four pieces.  

It could not be easier to cook your waffle. Five browning settings are featuring a regulating thermostat, so you can choose the crispiness of your waffle. There are two indicator lights for easy reference: red for "Ready to Bake" and green for "Ready to Eat." The weighted lid does not rise during the cooking process, and rubber feet help hold the entire unit secure. When you need to clean the machine, it can be wiped down instead of requiring disassembly.  

When you are done cooking, storage is made easy with a stand-up design that requires less real estate in your kitchen than other models. Its stainless steel design and bottom cord storage ensure that it will not be an eyesore should it take up residence on your countertop. The Cuisinart Classic Round Waffle Maker also includes a three-year warranty, the longest of our top picks for 2021's best waffle makers.

Pros:

• Thin, evenly-cooked waffles
• Nonstick waffle plates
• Extended warranty

Cons:

• It makes a single waffle
• No sound notification with timer
• No incorporated drip tray

When you are tight on space, the DASH Mini Waffle Maker ensures that you will not have to sacrifice your beloved waffles. It fills a number of needs, offering a fun aesthetic with colors like copper, pink, and Aqua Bunny. It is a cute, fun gift for the youngsters in your household, but it is also a strong enough pick for older waffle fans, especially for those with limited space like college dorm rooms. At 350W, it also requires far less power than larger models. The Mini Waffle Maker measures just four inches and weighs just over one pound, so it is easy to take with you on the go, whether it is to the office or traveling cross-country. 

To get started, you simply plug in the machine and wait a few minutes until it is preheated. The non-stick surface is versatile and works with any kind of batter, so you can bake cookies or use pizza dough. A helpful recipe book is included to get the creative juices flowing for a little extra creativity in the kitchen. When you are done cooking, clean-up is a simple matter, and storage is even easier, thanks to its compact design.  

A one-year warranty is included with your purchase, but you can upgrade to a two-year warranty when you enroll in the Feel Good Rewards program.  

Pros:

• Fun colors and designs
• Easy to operate
• Very affordable

Cons:

• Small, single waffles only
• Non-removable plates
• Extremely limited controls

The Hamilton Beach Flip Belgian Waffle Maker is a more robust option for the more serious waffle fan. With a solid, stainless steel construction, it features an ultra-flip design to create waffles that are soft on the inside with crispy edges on the outside. With 12 different cooking settings, the built-in browning control provides that perfect golden hue without overcooking or burning. There are also extra-deep pockets to allow for thicker batter and Belgian-style waffles. When the preheating process is complete, the 'Ready' light will signal that the machine is ready to make your waffle. The lid locks into place, and there is just a short wait because it generally takes 5-8 minutes for cooking to be complete. The stainless steel design remains cool to the touch throughout cooking with a convenient easy-flip handle that folds in for simplified storage.

To eliminate any extra headaches, the Hamilton Beach Flip Belgian Waffle Maker incorporates dishwasher-safe components, including non-stick plates and grids that are removable for even easier cleaning, so you do not have to worry about scrubbing or scraping batter out of corners, there is a built-in drip tray that is both removable and dishwasher-safe.

Pros:

• Dishwasher-safe plates
• Removable drip tray included 
• Adjustable temperature knob

Cons:

• No power button
• Missing a digital timer
• Very hot to touch during use