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Oster Belgian vs BLACK+DECKER WMB500 Side-by-Side Comparison
Looking for an affordable waffle maker but don’t know what to pick between the Oster Belgian and the BLACK+DECKER WMB500? Here’s our comparison.
Oster Belgian
Tested Using Methodology v1.1BLACK and DECKER
Tested Using Methodology v1.1Overall Verdict
The Oster Belgian waffle maker and the BLACK+DECKER WMB500 are considered “affordable” models. On the market, they’re priced similarly (with the WMB500 being slightly pricier.)
In this case, we highly recommend spending some extra on the BLACK+DECKER WMB500.
Our performance tests have put the WMB500 at a much higher ranking than the Oster Belgian waffle maker. While the quality of the waffles it made wasn’t gourmet, the WMB500 was still able to produce some tasty waffles suitable for breakfasts and light snacking.
The Oster Belgian waffle maker has very unstable heating elements, causing the waffle to cook unevenly. One side can have a brown, cooked tone, while the other is still lightly colored and undercooked.
For this reason alone, you should pick the BLACK+DECKER WMB500.
Pros & Cons
- Affordable
- Performs decently in our test with Birch Benders mix
- Fairly compact design makes for easier storage
- Responsive temperature control dial
- Affordable pricing
- Decent cooking performance across both test recipes
- Good-looking stainless steel baking chamber
- The lid can dampen the force of a strong push, preventing the lid from accidentally snapping close to the user’s hand
- The non-stick coating on the waffle plates works very well
- Excellent safety rating
- Unremarkable performance in our test with our self-mixed waffle batter
- Bad build quality
- Exposed electronics could be safety hazards
- Very dim indicator lights
- Lacks control panel
- The stainless steel baking chamber needs regular cleaning to look its best
Key Specs
Where to Buy
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Analysis and Test Results
Performance
Self-Mixed Recipe
Birch Benders Mix
Design
In the Box
Dimensions
Build Quality
Waffle Plates
Control Panel
Power Cord
Accessories
Usability
Handling
Safety
Cleanability
Indicator Light Visibility
Behind the Comparison
Matthew Lee is a writer and editor for HealthyKitchen101. With over 8 years working for various outlets and agencies, specializing in tech review and other subjects of note, such as current affairs.
Lap is Head of the Research, Testing, and Review Team (RTR Team) at HealthyKitchen101.com, where he directs and supervises the testing of kitchen gadgets and appliances.
Tuyet Pham is an award-winning Saigonese chef passionate about delicious and healthful foods. At HealthyKitchen101, she develops recipes and collaborates with our Research, Testing, and Review lab to evaluate the performance of cooking appliances. Her assessments add a strong authoritative voice to our product scoring process.
Nguyen Ntk is a graphic designer, photographer, and videographer whose philosophy centers around respecting and celebrating the beauty of reality. Through his lenses, Nguyen strives to capture the true essence of objects and events, showcasing and highlighting authentic features without distortion or exaggeration.