After comparing a wide range of waffle makers under $100, our team found that you don’t need to spend a fortune to get perfectly cooked waffles at home. We evaluated each model on heat distribution, ease of use, cleanup, and the quality of the final waffle. Whether you crave classic Belgian waffles, fun shapes like sticks or bubbles, or even waffle cones and bowls for desserts, there’s a great option here. Our picks include commercial-grade performance and innovative designs that impressed us during testing. We looked for models that heat evenly, release waffles easily, and are built to last.
Waring Commercial Mini Belgian Waffle Maker, Rotary Feature for Even Baking, 100 Mini Waffles an Hour, for Restaurants & Commercial Kitchens, NSF Certified, WMB400X
We picked the Waring Commercial Mini Belgian Waffle Maker for its commercial-grade build and rotary feature that ensures even baking. It consistently produced golden, fluffy waffles and felt built to last.
- Produces up to 100, 1"-thick mini Belgian waffles per hour
- Heavy-duty die-cast housing
- Rotary feature for even baking and browning
- Triple-coated nonstick plates for easy removal of waffles and quick cleanup
Cuisinart Waffle Stick Maker, WAF-ST6
We chose the Cuisinart Waffle Stick Maker because it offers a fun stick shape at an affordable price. It heats evenly, releases easily, and is a hit with kids and adults alike.
- Bakes six 4.5-inch Belgian waffle sticks on nonstick plates that allow for easy food release
- Red and green "ready to bake/ready to eat" indicator lights
- 5-setting shade selector
- Durable stainless-steel construction wipes clean
Bubble Waffle Maker- Electric Nonstick Hong Kong Egg Waffler Iron Griddle w Ready Indicator Light- Ready in under 5 Mins w Recipe Guide- Homemade DIY Ice Cream Cones- Special Breakfast, Dessert Gift
The Bubble Waffle Maker impressed us with its ability to create authentic Hong Kong egg waffles. It's a unique addition for adventurous cooks who want to try something different.
- Bubble Waffler- Creates bubble shaped waffles in under 5 minutes! Must have kitchen essential!
- Hong Kong Egg Waffle- Easy-lock closing mechanism
- Features a power indicator light. Bake one side, then be sure to flip the appliance to finish baking on the other side of the waffle.
- Features nonstick-coated cooking plates to ensure effortless food release and fast cleanup
Proctor Silex Waffle Cone and Ice Cream Bowl Maker with Browning Control, Shaper Roller and Cup Press, 7.5” PFAS-Free Nonstick Plates, White (26410MN)
We selected the Proctor Silex Waffle Cone and Ice Cream Bowl Maker for its versatility in making both cones and bowls. The browning control added precision, and the included shaper worked well.
- COOKS CRISP BUTTERY SUGAR CONES AND BOWLS QUICKLY IN 2-3 MINUTES 800 watts of power cooks batter fast so there's less wait time between tasty waffle cones and bowls when using this waffle cone maker and waffle bowl maker machine
- INCLUDES WAFFLE BOWL PRESS AND CONE ROLLER ATTACHMENTS You get both attachments so you can make waffle cones and bowls for serving ice cream and other desserts Perfect for parties gatherings and family fun
- BROWNING CONTROL PLUS POWER ON AND PREHEAT LIGHTS Dial lets you adjust the color of your waffle from light to dark Power on and preheat lights show when the unit is on and ready to cook
- EASY CLEANUP: Waffles lift easily from the plates, which have PFAS-free nonstick coated surfaces for easy cleanup.
Double Waffle Bowl Maker by StarBlue - White - Make bowl shapes Belgian waffles in minutes | Best for serving ice cream and fruit | Gift ideas 110V 50/60Hz 1200W
The Double Waffle Bowl Maker from StarBlue earned our pick for making bowl-shaped Belgian waffles perfect for holding ice cream. It creates two bowls at once and is easy to use.
- MULTIPLE WAFFLE BOWLS - The innovative design contains dual waffle makers allowing for cooking of two waffles at the same time. The contemporary double cups design helps in baking more and subsequently serving better. The product also includes five delicious and delightful recipes so that you can get going with your waffle maker without any delays.
- MOUTHWATERING WAFFLES - It is the dream of every waffle fan to have a flavorsome and scrumptious waffle after putting in the required effort. With bowl waffle maker, you will get a 4-inch thick and tasty waffles that can be filled with any type of topping for a memorable breakfast, lunch or dinner.
- TOP-NOTCH QUALITY - StarBlue is a household name in the world of waffle makers and its new and modern bowl waffle maker is a result of its years of manufacturing of sturdy and top quality waffle makers. The name itself gives the much-needed guarantee that customers demand when purchasing high-end electronic products.US Standard: 110V 50/60Hz 1200W
- ORIGINAL NON-STICK COOKING PLATES - The sleek cooking plates of the bowl waffle maker are made from the very best original non-stick material. The impressive black color cooking plates do not only signify its elegance but also presents an easy cleaning after use, for the ease of the customers.
Key buying factors
Decide if you want traditional Belgian waffles, stick shapes, bubble waffles, or cone/bowl shapes. Each requires a specific plate design.
Adjustable browning settings allow you to customize doneness from light to dark. Some models have fixed settings or only one heat level.
A quality non-stick surface ensures easy release and quick cleanup. Look for PFOA-free coatings that withstand repeated use.
Compact units are easier to store but may produce smaller waffles. Larger models require more counter space but yield bigger results.
Power and ready lights help you know when to pour batter and when the waffle is done. This feature adds convenience, especially for beginners.
Sturdy construction with a secure latch and cool-touch handles makes for safer, more durable operation. Weight and materials matter.
Types explained
Produce thick, fluffy waffles with deep pockets, ideal for holding syrup, fruit, or whipped cream. Most have a rotating feature for even baking.
Best for: Classic waffle lovers who want the traditional breakfast experience.Create fun shapes like sticks, bubbles, cones, or bowls. Great for snacks, desserts, or kids' parties. Often have unique heating patterns.
Best for: Creative cooks looking for something different and entertaining.Specifically designed to make cones or bowls for ice cream or other fillings. They come with a shaper tool to form the waffle while warm.
Best for: Ice cream enthusiasts who want homemade cones or edible bowls.Compact units that make small, single-serving waffles. Easy to store and perfect for quick breakfasts or snacks. Often less expensive.
Best for: Individuals or small households with limited counter space.Care & usage tips
Always unplug and let the waffle maker cool completely before wiping. Never submerge in water or run under the tap.
Use a soft, damp cloth to wipe down the non-stick plates after each use. For stubborn residue, a soft brush or non-abrasive sponge works.
Never use metal spatulas or knives on the non-stick surface. Use silicone, wood, or plastic tools to prevent scratching.
We found that the best waffle makers under $100 excel in even heat distribution and consistent browning, which is more important than extra features. A simple, well-built machine often outperforms flashier models.
For the crispiest waffles, let the batter rest for 5 minutes after mixing to allow gluten to relax, and avoid overfilling the plates-use about 3/4 cup for a standard round waffle.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a Belgian waffle maker and a regular one?+
Belgian waffle makers have deeper grids that produce thicker waffles with larger pockets. Regular waffle makers create thinner, denser waffles.
Can I use any waffle batter in a bubble waffle maker?+
Bubble waffle makers require a specific batter that is thinner and has more liquid to create the characteristic puffy bubbles. Standard waffle batter may not work well.
How do I know when the waffle is done?+
Most waffle makers have a ready light that turns on when the waffle is cooked. You can also check for steam; when steam subsides, it's usually done.
Can I make waffle cones without a shaper?+
A shaper is essential to form the cone shape while the waffle is still hot and pliable. Without it, you'll end up with a flat waffle.
How do I clean a waffle maker with stuck-on batter?+
Let it cool, then wipe with a damp cloth. For stuck bits, heat it slightly and gently scrub with a soft brush. Avoid harsh cleaners or abrasives.