Criterias of choice
There are many opinions about choosing the best waffle maker for the home. We analyzed the opinions of foreign researchers and compared them with the views of domestic experts. Evaluations of specialists from
Easy Kitchen Appliances — they describe in detail which waffle irons are suitable for making certain types of waffles and talk about what features you should pay attention to when buying.
Experts talk about the types of waffle irons and what features different models are equipped with.
What are the types of waffle irons?
- Standard waffles. Standard waffle irons create waffles that are typically 5 to 7 inches in diameter. They are also known as classic or American waffles. The potting molds are not very deep and the wafers have a uniform texture. Standard waffle irons often cook several waffles at a time.
- Belgian waffle irons. This waffle maker makes Belgian waffles that are thicker than their standard counterparts but tend to be the same diameter. Belgian waffles are often round in shape and require a more complex recipe to create. These waffles are crispy on the outside and moist on the inside. This means that the Belgian waffle makers themselves are equipped with deep pouring molds.
- Overturning / rotating waffle irons. Some waffle irons are shaped like shells. This gives users the ability to cook two waffles at once. Simply fill the top of the cot with batter, close the lid and flip it 180 degrees to access the other side. Cooking waffles this way allows you to cook evenly on both sides. Rotating waffle irons are basically the same design, except instead of flipping them 180 degrees, they rotate.
- Universal waffles. Some waffle irons come with removable and/or replaceable cooking plates. Additional plates are included with these devices, which allows you to use the device as a grill or pan, and also make waffles. This makes it possible to do more with just one device.
- Cast iron waffle irons. These are metal waffle irons that you pour batter into and then heat directly on the stovetop or over a fire. They can be useful if you are camping or cooking over a fire. Some people are hesitant to eat from non-stick cookware and prefer to eat from cast iron pans.
What to look for in a waffle iron?
There are many factors to consider when choosing a waffle iron. Here are some features to think about:
- number of waffles. The waffle maker can only make a certain number of waffles at a time. If you’re looking to feed a family of six in a short amount of time, a waffle maker that can only produce one or two waffles at a time may not be the best option. Find a model that will make the required amount.
- Case and build quality. A fragile waffle iron will not last long. It is worth spending time looking for durable equipment that will last a long time.
- Non-stick surface. Scraping a sticky waffle out of a waffle iron can be a frustrating process. Choose a model with a non-stick coating for easy cleaning.
- Equal cooking. For even cooking, choose a higher quality model. Cheap waffle irons only bake waffles in the middle.
- Light indicator. Look for a model with an indicator light that will let you know when the waffle iron is hot enough.
- Easy storage. Ease of storage is a huge advantage for waffle irons, especially if they are not used every day. Look for a model with a latch so that the device does not spontaneously open if it is on its side.
Rating of the best waffle makers
The best waffle irons for baking thin waffles
Let’s start with the rating of waffle irons for making thin crispy waffles, which are often used as blanks for pastry treats. It is them that are twisted into a horn and filled with filling — ice cream, cream and other fillers. Sometimes they are called “American”, but this is not entirely correct, since very thick, large and soft waffles, even thicker than Belgian ones, are the most popular in the USA. Our experts have identified three inexpensive and noteworthy models: Bomann HA 5017 CB, Maxwell MW-1571 and Clatronic HA 3494. All three devices are equipped with cones for rolling the waffle into a cone, and the heating panels are covered with a non-stick layer.
Bomann HA5017CB
Rating: 4.9
Bomann HA 5017 CB is a German waffle maker, but only a brand is from Germany, since the assembly is carried out in China. The device measuring 25x20x11.5 cm and weighing 1.8 kg is relatively powerful in terms of power consumption — 1.2 WK. Such power implies a high cooking speed. The heating temperature is controlled by a mechanical switch. Surface diameter — 18 cm, which means the preparation of one round “pancake” in one go. Case material — plastic.
The device as a whole is very concise in terms of functionality. Up to the fact that there is no sash lock, and this is noted by users as a clear drawback (uneven pressure, respectively — a strong difference in the thickness of the waffle from one edge to the other and uneven baking). The manufacturer’s efforts to reduce the cost of the device resulted in an unpleasant side effect — the low quality of the materials. To the point that waffles can stick to the surface of the panels, which, it would seem, is non-stick. This happens infrequently, but is noted by real users.
Nevertheless, many buyers like the model precisely due to the combination of affordable price and ease of use.
Prices: 1848 — 2375 rubles.
Advantages
- Beautiful design;
- overheat protection.
Flaws
- low quality materials;
- no latch;
- wafers sometimes stick to panels;
ARESA AR-2803 (W‑601)
Rating: 4.8
The next place in our review is occupied by a waffle iron for baking thin waffles from the Aresa trademark. This model is made of reliable and durable heat-resistant plastic, there are also stainless steel inserts on the case. The power of this waffle iron is quite high — it is 1200 watts.
This device has two molds for filling, each with a diameter of 20 cm and they have sides to remove dough residues. As for the surface, this model has a high-quality non-stick coating that creates a comfortable environment when cleaning the surface after cooking. The waffle maker has 4 temperature settings. Also in this model the light indicator of heating and readiness for baking is installed. The device comes complete with a cone for wrapping the finished waffle into a cone.
Advantages
- made of durable heat-resistant plastic;
- high power;
- diameter molds for pouring 20 cm;
- sides for removing dough residues;
- non-stick coating;
- Equipped with 4 temperature settings
Flaws
- not detected.
See also: 18 best electric kettles
Kitfort KT-1617
Rating: 4.7
Consider a model from the popular Kitfort brand. The waffle maker cooks one portion at a time, but despite this, baking is carried out quickly. The power of this waffle maker is 640 W, which is enough to quickly cook thin waffles in a few minutes. A special indicator light notifies you of the readiness of the device for operation. The coating of this model is Teflon, it perfectly protects the dough from sticking and it is not necessary to grease the surface with oil before cooking.
The device has a built-in thermostat that automatically maintains the desired temperature during cooking. The case of this model is made of durable metal, which is resistant to mechanical damage. The handles of the device are made of plastic, and the legs that fix the waffle iron on the surface are rubberized. On both sides of the form there are heaters that bake the waffles evenly. The cable length of this model is 0.7 meters and, if desired, it can be rolled up and stored in a special compartment.
Advantages
- special light indicator;
- teflon coating;
- built-in thermostat automatically maintains the temperature;
- the body is made of durable metal;
- rubberized legs;
- heaters are installed on both sides.
Flaws
- short network cable.
Clatronic HA 3494
Rating: 4.7
Another example of a waffle maker with a German “soul” but a Chinese “body” is Clatronic HA 3494. Almost all the lines of household appliances of this brand are positioned as budget ones, and in this case it is very noticeable.
The waffle iron consumes 1.2 kW of electrical power, has dimensions of 20.5x25x11.5 cm and weighs 1.44 kg. The baking diameter is 18 cm.
Many users note not the highest quality assembly and poorly thought out moments of operation by engineers. For example, the top sash does not recline enough to stand upright without support. Accordingly, when pouring the dough, it must be held, and this is inconvenient.
There is also a lot of dissatisfaction with the short cord to the outlet, but this is a “disease” of a very, very large number of modern household appliances, even large and not the cheapest. Customers also did not like the device for folding waffles into tubes / cones. With cones — order, but for tubes the shape is too short.
Prices: 1450 — 2375 rubles.
Advantages
- overheat protection;
- rubberized legs.
Flaws
- poor-quality assembly;
- inconvenience in use.
Rating of the best waffle irons for thick (Belgian) waffles
Now let’s move on to the rating of another type of waffle iron, on which thick, fluffy Belgian waffles with large cells are cooked. This delicacy has been a very exotic phenomenon in our country for quite some time, but the availability of homemade waffle irons with suitable shapes does its job. Expertology specialists have looked at three interesting models: Clatronic WA 3606, Jardeko Waffle Maker and Clatronic WA 3491. All models have non-stick coated panels.
Wilfa WAS-623B
Rating: 4.9
A very popular model of the waffle iron is loved by many users because it bakes heart-shaped waffles. Six waffles can be made at one time. The baking sheet of this device is thick enough, this ensures uniform baking of waffles. The power of this model is quite high and is 1400 watts. There are special air gaps in the waffle iron that release steam, due to which they are thoroughly fried, and not boiled, as in some models of this type.
This model is equipped with a shutdown protection system, it prevents the plates from overheating and damage to the non-stick coating. The surface does not need to be washed after cooking, to clean it is enough to wipe with a napkin, without the use of detergents. A special ladle is supplied with the device, which prevents spills of dough. The legs of the waffle iron are thought out, they are rubberized and do not slip on the surface.
Advantages
- high power;
- you can cook six waffles at a time;
- cast iron pan;
- there are special air gaps;
- the model is equipped with a shutdown protection system;
- included a special ladle;
- rubberized legs.
Flaws
- heats up quickly.
Also Read: 10 Best Home Air Fryers
Clatronic WA 3606
Rating: 4.8
And again about “Chinese Germany” — Clatronic WA 3606 waffle maker, now for Belgian waffles. The dimensions in the package are 26x24x14 cm, and the weight is 1905. The case is mostly plastic, on the top of the lid there is a stainless steel plate. Heating adjustment mechanical, smooth. There is a cord storage compartment.
The device is designed to prepare two portions of waffles (the dimensions of the working surface are 13.5x21.5). Implemented protection against overheating. Rubberized feet provide stability.
As in the case of the model described above for thin wafers of the same brand, Clatronic WA 3606 has one problem — the low quality of materials. And in this case, this is also expressed in frequent complaints about the unstable non-stick coating of the panels and its local damage. And not the most “jewelry” assembly — this is more a rule for Clatronic than an exception. But, since we are talking about a budget model, the extremely affordable price in this case decides.
Prices: 1658 — 2300 rubles.
Advantages
- attractive design;
- rubberized legs;
- overheat protection;
Flaws
- poor-quality assembly;
- frequent complaints of damaged non-stick coating.
Jardeko Waffle Maker
Rating: 4.7
As mentioned in detail above in the descriptions of the brands, the “Italian” Jardeko waffle iron is not Italian at all, but quite the same Chinese as all the previous ones, and the brand belongs to a Russian citizen. But, nevertheless, the device is solid, albeit extremely (if not prohibitively) concise.
The power consumption of this model is 1300 watts. The metal case is, it would seem, not bad, but users characterize the design of this case as very dull. In general, in this model everything that can be removed is removed. Even modes of operation are absent as a class — the temperature is not regulated at all.
However, many users are captivated by this exceptional simplicity, the positive side effect of which is reliability and understandability. Indeed, Expertology employees did not find complaints about the quick failure of the Jardeko Waffle Maker among the reviews in open sources.
Prices: 2301 — 2680 rubles.
Advantages
- reliability;
- exceptional ease of use.
Flaws
- “boring” design;
- the only mode of operation;
Clatronic WA 3491
Rating: 4.7
And once again Clatronic, namely, the Clatronic WA 3491 waffle iron model. The device is characterized by an attractive design and good ergonomics. By the way, this is the only waffle iron among all those present in the review, which has a white body, but there are also black ones. Case material — plastic. Dimensions — 20.5x25x11.5 cm, weight — 1.25 kg. Power consumption — 1.2 kW.
There is enough power for fast cooking, which many real users liked. The shape of the panels implies the preparation of five servings, each in the shape of a heart.
Buyers note the attractive design of the Clatronic WA 3491, but do not forget about the “native” Clatronic problem of cheap parts and careless assembly. But the cost outweighs all the shortcomings, and the model as a whole is quite efficient.
Prices: 1508 — 1999 rubles.
Advantages
- cute design;
- fast cooking;
- overheat protection;
Flaws
- play of the upper sash;
- low quality materials and assembly.
Rating of the best inexpensive waffle irons with interchangeable panels
And finally, let’s go through the universal waffle irons, in which you can change the heating panels. Such devices have their pros and cons, which we will consider. Our experts recommend two notable models from the affordable price segment: Rommelsbacher WA 1000/E and REDMOND RMB-M613/1.
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Rommelsbacher WA 1000/E
Rating: 4.7
The Rommelsbacher WA 1000/E waffle maker is already much more “German” than the above models for thin waffles. Although it is produced in the same China and less often in Turkey, the manufacturer monitors the quality very vigilantly. This is manifested in a solid assembly, quality materials and … a much higher price.
I would immediately like to note the laconic, but effective and stylish design of the Rommelsbacher WA 1000/E. The case is made of stainless steel with a matte finish. The dimensions of the device are 24x25x9 cm, weight — 1.7 kg. Power consumption — 1 kW. The heating temperature is set by a mechanical stepless regulator.
The case has a compartment for storing the electric cable. The model is completed with panels for cooking Belgian and Viennese waffles.
In general, it is extremely difficult to detect distinct flaws in this waffle iron. Even the fact that at one time the Rommelsbacher WA 1000 / E earned a special award from the famous German publication Haus & Garten speaks of its quality and convenience. But the price stops many.
Prices: 6520 — 6590 rubles.
Advantages
- stylish design;
- convenient form factor;
- build quality;
REDMOND RMB-M613/1
Rating: 4.7
Waffle makers of the famous international brand REDMOND RMB-M613/1 are manufactured and assembled in China. Despite the Chinese assembly and the extremely affordable price, there are no complaints from users either about the quality of the materials or the assembly itself. In this regard, REDMOND household appliances are mostly in order.
This model has dimensions of 236x236x90 mm, weighs 1.7 kg and is designed for 2 portions of waffles (with standard panels). Electricity consumes very modestly — only 700 watts. Case material combined — high-quality plastic and stainless steel.
REDMOND RMB-M613/1 is positioned by the manufacturer not even as a waffle maker, but as a “multi-baker”, they say, due to the use of different molds, the device can be not only a waffle maker. With it, you can cook omelets, muffins and donuts, and also use it as a grill. In addition to the instructions, the package includes a set of additional working panels and a recipe book.
A side effect of versatility is expressed in a slightly more complicated care, since in this model you will have to wipe not only the panels themselves and the body, but also the space inside the doors, as oil, crumbs and other “foreign substances” penetrate there. Many users notice an unpleasant smell during the first few uses, so it is advisable to ignite a freshly bought waffle iron several times before the first cooking.
Prices: 1590 rubles.
Advantages
- high-quality non-stick coating;
- stylish design;
- “safe” large handle;
Flaws
- bad smell on first use.
Which brand of waffle iron to buy
Although electric waffle irons are extremely simple devices belonging to the class of small household appliances, there are still a number of points that make a conscious buyer not to take anything, but to look closely at the brand. Our experts explained which waffle iron manufacturers are optimal in terms of price, quality and convenience of this particular type of product.
- German company C. Bomann Gmbh manufactures electric waffle irons under the brand name BOMANN. The company has almost a century and a half history, and is now part of the Clatronic Group holding. Products belong to the medium-low price category, and those goods that enter the Russian market are assembled in China.
- Trademark CLATRONIC is the flagship brand of the German group of companies Clatronic Group. The very first company of the holding — CTC Clatronic International GmbH — was opened in 1982 as a family business. The entire production part has long been transferred to a contract basis in China.
- Another solid and old German brand is Rommelsbacher. The company was founded in 1928, and since then production facilities have opened in different countries. Now the company owns factories in Italy, Turkey and China. Specifically, waffle irons, like all Rommelsbacher household appliances of the lower price category, are made in Turkey and China.
- Trademark well known to the Russian consumer Redmond is an international brand. The company was created by investors from several countries — Israel, Canada and the United States. On the net, you can often find confusion about the country of origin of Redmond — various sources claim that it is either American, Canadian or even Russian. The thing is that the company’s policy implies the registration of separate local trademarks of the same name in each country where there is a representative office. This is done to combat counterfeiting. Redmond equipment is produced mostly in China, but the assembly of goods for the Russian market can also be carried out in the CIS countries.
- Now about a truly Russian brand, albeit disguised as a Western one. This is a trademark Maxwell, which belongs to the domestic holding Golden Electronics. He also owns the famous VITEK brand. Maxwell is emphatically positioned as an inexpensive technique for people who do not want to overpay for a big name.
- And finally — an example of such a phenomenon as dishonest branding. Jardeko brand appliances are fiercely positioned as Italian. But in fact, the owner of the brand is a certain Zharyuk Igor Leonidovich with St. Petersburg registration. Where are waffle irons made? Jardeko — there is not a word about this on the official website, and it is easy to understand that if they were really made in Italy, this would be written in the boldest font on every page. Nevertheless, we admit that Jardeko waffle irons are quite solid, and Expertology experts considered them worthy of a review.
A waffle iron is a great way to update your kitchen without buying bulky or expensive appliances. Waffle irons do not take up much space on the kitchen table and can even be stored in a drawer. With it, you can make golden brown waffles as a fun treat at home or make a big batch for a Sunday celebration with friends. With modern features, this compact kitchen appliance is easy to use and will help you prepare perfect waffles. Most of the options are made of stainless steel, which makes the waffle iron a nice addition to the kitchen.
To answer the question of which waffle makers are the most productive and easy to use, as well as which model is suitable for making thin waffles and which for Belgian waffles, Expertology analyzed the 2021 market, selecting 8 of the best waffle makers for home and sorting them by price, as well as typical specifications.
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Attention! This rating is subjective, is not an advertisement and does not serve as a purchase guide. Before buying, you need to consult with a specialist.
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