Bests & Worsts Reviews from Amazon

I really, REALLY wanted the $200 version of this waffle iron (in another brand, alas) but since we are a family of 4 and only make waffles once or twice a month, this seemed the smarter option. Here's my 3 month, approximately 50-waffle assessment of this purchase. Pros: * relatively cheap * can cook 2 sets of waffles within 6-8 minutes (good for families with kids who want their freakin' waffles already!) * pretty even bake on all parts of the waffle (both sides) * can make soft waffles or crisp waffles depending on recipe & cooking time * easy clean-up IF YOU BRUSH CANOLA OIL ON IRON BETWEEN WAFFLE JOBS * handy drip tray really does collect 95% of drips * exterior of the unit cleans up easily, even if it is essentially coated in batter (that was a rough morning) Cons: * batter/waffle sticks to the iron... I have tried 5 different recipes with this iron, including a gluten-free version, and ALL of them stuck to the iron unless I brushed canola oil on it between waffles * no way to tell if the waffle is cooked to perfection: yes, I read other reviews indicating that when it stops steaming it is done, but that doesn't tell me if it is barely cooked, lightly browned or hard as a rock * if you make the mistake of listening to the manufacturer's instructions and applying batter to the iron without canola oil, clean up is a major headache * drip tray only handles small drips: larger decision-making failures that come with multitasking 2 waffles at once--i.e., dumping way too much batter on the iron--will result in a mess all over the iron, drip tray, and counter top.... it would be nice if they could make a drip tray that fits under the whole unit * takes up a lot of storage space All in all, I am glad I did not buy the more expensive version of this waffle maker. It does what it is supposed to do, and if you pay attention to cooking time and keep the irons oiled, it'll make some darn good waffles. Solid 4 star purchase.