6 Best Waffle Makers Under $30 of 2026

Kickstart your culinary creativity with the Elite Gourmet EWM-2207#, a surprisingly versatile little machine that goes far beyond basic waffles. This model stands out for its compact footprint and the ability to whip up more than just sweet treats, tackling savory options like cheese or chive waffles with ease. It’s designed to solve the common pain point of limited kitchen space while offering expanded snack possibilities.

Performance is straightforward with this 2-slice maker; simply wait for the indicator lights to signal readiness. Its non-stick plates are designed for hassle-free cleanup, requiring just a damp cloth wipe down after cooling. While it capably handles standard waffles and other batter-based snacks, its design is more about convenience and versatility than producing the thickest, deepest Belgian pockets.

Compared to mini makers like the DASH or CROWNFUL, the Elite Gourmet offers a slightly larger, more standard waffle size while retaining excellent portability. It trades the specialized features of larger Belgian models like the bella flip or Hamilton Beach browning control for broad snack utility and impressive space-saving storage. This maker is ideal for dorms, small apartments, or anyone wanting a simple, multi-purpose snack press.

Unlock the charm of tiny treats with the DASH Mini Waffle Maker, a delightful gadget perfect for single servings or fun-sized creations. This 4-inch wonder is incredibly simple to operate, heating up quickly with just a plug-in and featuring a ready indicator light. It’s the ultimate space-saver, designed specifically to address the challenge of minimal counter or cabinet real estate.

This mini maker performs its core task efficiently, producing perfectly formed 4-inch snack-sized waffles in minutes thanks to its high-quality PTFE nonstick surface. It excels at quick breakfasts, late-night snacks, or making adorable batches for freezing. While its size is its main appeal, it naturally limits the volume and size of what you can cook compared to standard models.

Directly comparable to the CROWNFUL Mini, the DASH offers a similar ultra-compact experience but comes from a slightly more established brand in the mini appliance space. It prioritizes user-friendliness and portability over features like adjustable temperature or larger capacity found in models like the Oster or Elite Gourmet. This maker is best for kids, dorm rooms, campers, or anyone who needs a quick, tiny waffle fix.

Step up your waffle game with the Hamilton Beach Belgian Waffle Maker, designed to bring restaurant-quality results home with added peace of mind. A key highlight is its Durathon ceramic nonstick coating, which is PFAS-free and boasts four times the durability of traditional nonstick surfaces. This model also features an adjustable browning control, allowing precise customization from light and fluffy to deeply golden.

In terms of performance, the Hamilton Beach delivers consistent results, letting you tailor your waffle’s texture and color precisely using the browning dial. The ceramic nonstick ensures waffles release cleanly, making cleanup remarkably easy with just a simple wipe. While it produces excellent Belgian waffles, it lacks a flip function, meaning batter distribution relies solely on pouring technique.

Compared to the basic Oster Belgian model, the Hamilton Beach offers superior nonstick technology and the crucial addition of browning control, justifying its slightly higher position. It provides a more traditional, non-flip Belgian experience than the innovative bella Flip & Store, focusing instead on coating quality and adjustable cooking. This maker is ideal for those who prioritize control over their waffle’s doneness and value a durable, healthier nonstick surface.

Experience the joy of thick, diner-style Belgian waffles with the bella Flip-n-Store Waffle Maker, engineered for both performance and convenience. Its signature feature is the 180° flip mechanism, ensuring batter spreads evenly for perfectly cooked waffles every time. Beyond cooking prowess, it boasts an innovative upright storage design, claiming to save significant cabinet space.

This 1000 Watt maker produces substantial 7-inch wide, 1.5-inch deep waffles, handling thick batters with ease thanks to the flip action. The EverGood Ceramic Nonstick Coating, free from PFAS and other harmful chemicals, guarantees effortless release and quick wiping clean. While the flip feature is excellent for cooking, the unit does require a bit more vertical clearance during operation than non-flip models.

Standing out against traditional Belgian makers like the Oster or Hamilton Beach, the bella’s flip functionality is its main differentiator, promising superior evenness. It combines this high-performance cooking method with a space-saving storage solution that other models often lack. This waffle maker is perfect for serious Belgian waffle enthusiasts with limited kitchen storage who crave that authentic, thick texture.

Discover the ultimate in budget-friendly convenience with the CROWNFUL Mini Waffle Maker, a simple yet effective tool for quick snacks and mini creations. This 4-inch machine is designed for speed and ease of use, requiring nothing more than plugging it in and waiting for the indicator light. Its exceptionally compact size makes it a champion of space-saving in any kitchen setting.

Performance is straightforward and reliable for a device this simple; it heats up fast and cooks mini waffles or chaffles quickly using its dual-sided nonstick surfaces. It’s perfect for whipping up a single serving or experimenting with different batters like egg mixes for chaffles. The minimalist design means it foregoes advanced features found on larger or slightly more expensive models.

Remarkably similar in design and function to the DASH Mini Waffle Maker, the CROWNFUL offers nearly identical features at an often more accessible price point. It provides a basic, no-frills experience, focusing purely on delivering quick, mini waffles without the capacity or features of standard makers like the Elite Gourmet. This maker is ideal for students, budget shoppers, small apartments, or anyone needing the absolute simplest way to make a tiny waffle.

Get back to basics with the Oster® Belgian Waffle Maker, a straightforward machine focused on delivering classic 8-inch round Belgian-style waffles. This model includes adjustable temperature control, a feature not always found on entry-level makers, allowing some degree of customization over your waffle’s texture and color. It’s designed for simple operation without complex features.

The Oster performs reliably for making standard-sized Belgian waffles, offering the ability to control the heat level for slightly lighter or darker results. Its non-stick plates facilitate decent waffle release and cleanup, though they might not be as advanced as ceramic coatings found on other models. While it makes a good standard waffle, it lacks features like a flip mechanism or upright storage.

Compared to the Hamilton Beach Belgian Waffle Maker, the Oster offers a simpler design and standard nonstick, trading adjustable browning for basic temperature control and a lower price point. It provides a larger, standard Belgian size experience unlike the mini makers from DASH or CROWNFUL. This maker is a solid choice for those who want a classic Belgian waffle experience with basic temperature adjustability without paying for extra features or advanced coatings.