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Oster Belgian vs Cuisinart WMR-CA Classic Side-by-Side Comparison

Matthew Lee
Reviewer
Nguyen Ntk
Visual Specialist
Updated
Tested Using Methodology v1.1
Updated Jun 9, 2023
Tested Using Methodology v1.1
Updated Jun 9, 2023
The Oster waffle maker, with its metal lid and black plastic base, sits amidst its shipping box (left) and manual (right).
The Cuisinart WMR-CA Classic waffle maker on a table, with its instruction manual to the right and the shipping box it comes in to the left.

Our Verdict

5.7
Overall Score
  • Performance (50%)
    6.0/10
  • Design (20%)
    6.2/10
  • Ease of Use (30%)
    5.0/10
7.8
Overall Score
  • Performance (50%)
    7.2/10
  • Design (20%)
    7.7/10
  • Ease of Use (30%)
    8.8/10

The Oster Belgian and Cuisinart WMR-CA Classic are similar in that they were both designed to be as affordable as possible. But, on the whole, the Cuisinart WMR-CA Classic constitutes a far better purchase than the Oster despite being slightly more expensive.

In our database, the Oster is one of the worst performers and has a notable tendency to overcook its waffles to the point of charring. On the other hand, the WMR-CA performs reasonably well, producing tastier and more evenly-cooked waffles.

The overall build quality of the Cuisinart WMR-CA is also better. Though its design is simplistic, every part is well-built with good finishing. The Oster is the exact opposite. It suffers greatly from poor build quality. For example, the back hinges of our unit have cracks and dents all over,exposing  the sensitive electronics through the back.

Often Disappoint More than It Please

Oster Belgian Waffle Maker’s Performance

Cuisinart Classic Waffle Maker’s Performance: Bad At First, Redeemed Later!
6.0
Performance Scores
  • Self-Mixed Recipe (50%)5.2/10
  • Birch Benders Mix (50%)6.8/10
7.2
Performance Scores
  • Self-Mixed Recipe (50%)6.7/10
  • Birch Benders Mix (50%)7.7/10
5.2

Self-Mixed Recipe

6.7
Oster Belgian Self-Mixed Recipe
The very dark brown-dark gold top crust of a waffle baked for 5 minutes using our self-mixed recipe.
The very dark brown-dark gold bottom crust of a waffle baked for 5 minutes using our self-mixed recipe.
A cross-section of a waffle baked for 5 minutes using our self-mixed recipe. The interior is dense with few air bubbles.
A waffle, baked for 5 minutes, is torn by hands to test for its consistency. The interior of the waffle is revealed.
Color: 5
35% * 5 = 1.8
Texture: 5
25% * 5 = 1.3
Taste: 5.5
40% * 5.5 = 2.2
  • Heat Level: Max
  • Cooking Time: 5 minutes

The Oster didn’t do well in our performance test. The coloration of the waffle—with its blotchy, charred crust—was disappointing. Cutting it open, the waffle had a dense and under-developed interior. It translated to an underwhelming mouthfeel in the taste test. And because the batter was only half-cooked, the waffle still tasted like raw batter.

Color (35%) — 5/10

  • Color result: Very dark brown - Dark gold (Both sides)
  • Color distribution: Even

The waffle’s crust was darkly colored, especially within the wells of the waffle, which had dark brown to very dark brown coloring. Fortunately, while they may look charred, we didn’t see any carbonization when we closely looked at each well.

Outside the wells, the waffle was a rather beautiful dark gold. But it’s still not enough for us to give the waffle a higher score than a five.

Both sides have roughly the same color gradient.

Texture (25%) — 5/10

  • Texture: Wet, mushy
  • Aeration level: Low

Despite the burnt-looking crust, the interior of the waffle wasn’t as well-developed as we had hoped. Air bubbles were visible, but they were small and few. Furthermore, the waffle’s core was dense and slightly mushy.

Taste (50%) — 5.5/10

  • Taste: Bland, bitter at charred spots.
  • Mouthfeel: Dry on the outside, mushy on the inside

The contrast between the overcooked outside and the undercooked inside makes for a disappointing tasting experience. There was a hint of the batter’s sweetness and buttery taste. However, the tastiness was ruined by the bitterness of the burnt crust and the egg-like taste of the undercooked core.

Ultimately, our chef rated the Oster waffle maker 5 out of 10.

Cuisinart WMR-CA Classic Self-Mixed Recipe Video
The very dark brown top crust of a waffle baked for 3 minutes using our self-mixed recipe.
The very dark brown top crust of a waffle baked for 3 minutes using our self-mixed recipe.
The cross-section of a waffle baked for 3 minutes, revealing small air cavities within the waffle’s interior.
The 3-minute waffle being torn by hand down the middle to test it for consistency and texture.
Color: 6.25
35% * 6.25 = 2.2
Texture: 7
25% * 7 = 1.8
Taste: 7
40% * 7 = 2.8
  • Heat Level: 3
  • Cooking Time: 3 minutes

The waffle has a bright color but noticeably lacks uniformity. Rings of burnt batter were stamped to the top and bottom of the waffle. The texture and taste were surprisingly decent. The interior has begun to fill with air bubbles, producing a soft, fluffy texture. And the taste—while not exceptional—was decent enough to make for a hearty breakfast.

Color (35%) — 6.25/10

  • Color result: Very dark brown (Both)
  • Color distribution: Uneven

After spending only 2 minutes in the waffle maker, our self-mixed waffle already achieved a dark gold — almost brown — color. Reaching this color after such a short stint and only half power suggests that the heating element must be extremely strong. This was further evidenced by the large circle of burnt batter on the top of the waffle.

Texture (25%) — 7/10

  • Texture: Mediocre
  • Aeration level: Medium, air bubbles have begun to fill the interior

The interior of the waffle has started to aerate. Thanks to this, the waffle had a soft, almost fluffy texture. But the size of the bubbles was small, and their number was few compared to the waffles we had baked with other models. This led us to believe that the overall texture of the waffle could be improved further.

Taste (40%) — 7/10

  • Flavor: Bland, unexceptional. Still tastes like raw batter.
  • Mouthfeel: Dry on the outside, mushy on the inside

Flavor-wise, the waffle was great. The sugar and salt in the batter were converted into a delectable sweetness with a slight hint of savoriness. Combined with the buttery aftertaste, the waffle was quite delicious.

The mouthfeel was unexceptional. As we mentioned earlier, we believed that the Cuisinart WMR-CA hadn’t managed to unlock the full potential of the batter here. It could be far softer and fluffier.

6.8

Birch Benders Mix

7.7
Oster Belgian Birch Benders Mix Video
The very light gold-dark brown top crust of a waffle baked for 3 minutes using a batter made from the Birch Benders mix.
The very light gold-dark brown bottom crust of a waffle baked for 3 minutes using a batter made from the Birch Benders mix.
The interior of a waffle baked for 3 minutes using a Birch Benders batter mix. Small air cavities can be seen within.
A waffle, baked for 3 minutes using our Birch Benders batter mix, is torn down the middle by hands. The interior can be seen.
Color: 6.3
35% * 6.3 = 2.2
Texture: 6.5
25% * 6.5 = 1.6
Taste: 7.5
40% * 7.5 = 3.0
  • Heat Level: Max
  • Cooking Time: 3 minutes

Although color distribution is uneven, the brighter and more palatable color tones are a big step up. The interior has developed this time, resulting in a soft and fluffy waffle. Our chef also rated the waffle’s taste highly, appreciating its sweetness and velvety texture.

Color (35%) — 6.3/10

  • Color result: Very light gold and dark brown (Both)
  • Color distribution: Uneven

Coloration is slightly better this time around with the pre-made mix. Unfortunately, the difference between this one and the earlier sample made from our self-mixed batter isn’t drastic enough to give it a significant score boost.

The color tone is better with a nice golden brown shade at the center of the waffle. Surrounding the center is a noticeable “ring” of burnt batter that ruins the aesthetic of the waffle. Out along the edges, the crust there has a light gold of undercooked batter.

It’s because of this unequal distribution of colors is the reason why it doesn’t get a higher score in this segment.

Texture (25%) — 6.5/10

  • Texture: Mediocre
  • Aeration level: Medium; air bubbles were beginning to form, but their sizes were still small

Texture is acceptable. Despite the unattractive coloring, the inside of the waffle has nicely developed. The aeration process has formed a lot of tiny air bubbles on the inside, creating a soft, fluffy texture. Although it is not excellent, the texture of this one is at least acceptable.

Taste (50%) — 7.5/10

  • Flavor: Sweet
  • Mouthfeel: Soft, no excessively dry spots

Taste is the best part of this test. Compared to the earlier test done with self-mixed batter, the sample produced with the pre-made mix tastes better, according to our chef. Because there’s very minimal burnt spots, the flavor is sweet without any hint of bitterness. This, combined with the fluffy texture, creates a decently-tasting waffle that comes closer to the “restaurant-quality waffle” slogan that Oster has placed in its advertisements.

Cuisinart WMR-CA Classic Birch Benders Mix Video
The golden brown bottom crust of a waffle baked in 3 minutes using a batter made from the Birch Benders mix.
The bottom golden crust of a waffle baked for 4 minutes using a batter made from the Birch Benders mix.
A cross-section of a waffle, revealing the large air cavities and air bubbles inside.
A waffle is torn down the middle to test for its consistency and texture. The core of the waffle is revealed.
Color: 7.5
35% * 7.5 = 2.6
Texture: 7.5
25% * 7.5 = 1.9
Taste: 8
40% * 8 = 3.2
  • Heat Level: 3
  • Cooking Time: 4 minutes

The waffle’s coloring is excellent in this taste. An appealing golden-brown crust covers both sides of the waffle uniformly. The interior has filled out nicely with air bubbles and becomes soft and pliant. However, it’s still slightly mushy in certain parts. It is flavorful and without a trace of bitterness.

Color (35%) - 7.5/10

  • Color result: Light brown (Both)
  • Color distribution: Even

The pre-made mix managed to bring out more of this machine’s potential. After 4 minutes, the waffle maker produced a beautiful waffle with a light golden tone, highlighted by faint pockets of browning near the center.

Color uniformity was also good. But for a faint brown circle on the upper surface, its light golden brown tone was spread evenly throughout the entire waffle. We’re pretty sure the brown was caused by the unit’s powerful heating element, and is the main reason the WMA-CA lost points in this category. In contrast, the distribution of color at the bottom was almost perfect.

Texture (25%) — 7.5/10

  • Texture: Good
  • Aeration level: High, air bubbles were large and well-developed

The waffle filled out well. Its interior ended up nicely aerated, and we found large bubbles when we cut the waffle open. In terms of texture, it was soft and fluffy. Regrettably, our chef assessed the waffle to be still slightly mushy, so its score took a hit.

Taste (40%) - 8/10

  • Flavor: Sweet, slightly salty (due to the mix). No bitterness.
  • Mouthfeel: Soft and spongy. Slightly mushy.

The waffle received a high score from our chef. The crust reached just the right level of crispiness, and the inside was reasonably soft. The batter had fully developed on the inside, unleashing its complete flavor profile. However, as previously mentioned, our chef still noticed a faint hint of mushiness.

Oster CKSTWF2000 Belgian Waffle Maker’s Design

Cuisinart WMR CA Round Classic Waffle Maker’s Design
6.2
design Scores
  • Build Quality (60%)4.5/10
  • Waffle Plates (30%)8.5/10
  • Control Panel (10%)9.0/10
7.7
design Scores
  • Build Quality (60%)8.0/10
  • Waffle Plates (30%)7.0/10
  • Control Panel (10%)8.0/10

What’s In the Box of the Oster Belgian Stainless Steel Waffle Maker?

What’s In the Box of the Cuisinart Round Classic Waffle Maker
The Oster waffle maker, with its stainless steel top lid and black plastic detailing, is placed next to its manual.
  • Oster waffle maker
  • User manual

In the box, you get the waffle maker and a simple user manual. There are no extra accessories. This is not surprising considering the budget price point of this waffle maker.

The Cuisinart WMR-CA, with its stainless steel top and black plastic detailing, sitting next to its instructional manual.
  • Waffle maker
  • User manual

In its small shipping box you will find just the WMR-CA waffle maker and the user manual. It doesn’t come with any extra accessories.

Dimensions

The physical dimensions of the Oster Belgian waffle maker. The length is 10 inches, height 4 inches, and width 8 inches.
  • Length:
    10.0" (25.4 cm)
  • Width:
    8.0" (20.3 cm)
  • Height:
    4.0" (10.2 cm)
  • Weight:
    3.2 lbs (1.5 kg)

The Oster waffle maker is quite compact. Thanks to its size, it won’t take up much space on the countertop, and storage is easy. Notably, you can also store the waffle maker standing upright (vertical).

The Cuisinart WMR-CA’s dimensions are measured with its length being 9.7 inches, height 3.3 inches, and width 7.9 inches.
  • Length:
    9.7" (24.6 cm)
  • Width:
    7.9" (20.1 cm)
  • Height:
    3.3" (8.4 cm)
  • Weight:
    1.0 lbs (0.5 kg)

The compact size of the WMR-CA is an advantage in terms of storage. It will fit snugly in a small cupboard. Since it doesn’t take up a lot of space, you can also leave it on the kitchen island.

At 1 pound, the WMR-CA is lightweight. You can bring it in and out of storage with ease.

4.5

Build Quality

8.0
The side profile of the Oster CKSTWF2000 Belgian waffle maker. The stainless steel lid is blemished from daily use.
The side profile of the Oster CKSTWF2000 Belgian waffle maker. The stainless steel lid is blemished from daily use.
Oster Waffle Maker  Build Quality Video
The back side of the Oster Belgian waffle maker. The power cables can be in-between the gaps created by the plastic hinges.

The stainless steel housing gives the Oster waffle maker a sharper, pricier look. However, the waffle maker’s rough edges are clearly revealed when you scrutinize it up close. Fingerprints can easily smudge the stainless steel surface. Even when you lightly scrape the surface with your fingernails, ugly scratches can appear on the metal.

After a couple of days in the lab, the top surface of the waffle maker lost its original shine. We couldn’t restore it even after several attempts at wiping it down and polishing it.

Like most affordable waffle makers, detailing like the handle, base, and control panel section are made from plastic. They look and feel cheap.

Build quality is poor on the review unit we received. The lid’s hinges are loose and rattle even when lightly tugged. On the backside, we found poorly tooled parts with rough edges, scrapes, and dents. Worse still, the backside of the waffle maker has gaps that reveal its guts, exposing its internal wiring and circuits.

For these reasons, we assess the Oster’s construction quality as mediocre at best and sub-par at worst.

The back end of the Cuisinart WMR-CA. Internal electric wiring and circuit boards can be seen through a gap.
The back end of the Cuisinart WMR-CA. Internal electric wiring and circuit boards can be seen through a gap.
Cuisinart WMR-CA Build Quality Video

The exterior shell of the waffle maker is made from brushed metal. All external parts are made from plastic, except for the waffle plates.

Cuisinart benefited greatly from the WMR-CA model’s simple design. There appear to be no significant design flaws. We didn’t find any part that was poorly tooled, either.

While it’s not a sophisticated or high-end design, all parts of the WMR-CA fit together and — more importantly — work together well.

There were a few minor annoyances, though. The metallic exterior is prone to fingerprint smudges and scratches. The metal went from pristine to worn after only a few days in the lab. It’s not difficult to wipe off the smears with some mild detergent, but the scratches remain.

8.5

Waffle Plates

7.0
An overview of the waffle plates of the Oster waffle maker. It’s made from cast aluminum and has Belgian-style patterning.
An overview of the waffle plates of the Oster waffle maker. It’s made from cast aluminum and has Belgian-style patterning.
A close-up of the black, cast aluminum waffle plate of the Oster waffle maker.
  • Number of Plates:
    2
  • Grid Pattern:
    Belgian-style
  • Plate Area:
    7.8 inch2
  • Plate Length:
    7.1" (18.0 cm)
  • Plate Width:
    7.1" (18.0 cm)
  • Material:
    Die-cast aluminum
  • Non Stick Coating:
    Yes
  • Removable:
    No
  • Dishwasher Safe:
    No

The waffle plates are made from die-cast aluminum. It is imprinted with the classic Belgian-style grid pattern. The total diameter of the waffle plate (with the outer anti-spill moat included) is 7.8 inches. It is able to produce a 7-inch waffle.

According to Oster, the non-stick coating is food-grade polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE — also known as Teflon), and has been approved by the USDA.

The inclusion of PTFE can be a deal-breaker for many. However, note that, unlike PFOA, PTFE is inert and relatively harmless at temperatures under 400°F. Only when the temperature exceeds 400°F can the PTFE coating become a problem by releasing toxic gasses. During normal operation, the waffle maker isn’t going to come even close to this threshold. Thus, the waffle plates are still classed as safe for use.

The waffle plates are not removable.

The Cuisinart WMR-CA with its lid opened, revealing the set of two black, non-stick-coated waffle plates.
The Cuisinart WMR-CA with its lid opened, revealing the set of two black, non-stick-coated waffle plates.
A close-up view of the Cuisinart WMR-CA’s waffle plate. It has classic-style patterning and is coated in black non-stick.
  • Number of Plates:
    2
  • Grid Pattern:
    Classic-style
  • Plate Area:
    47.78 inches2
  • Plate Length:
    7.8" (19.8 cm)
  • Plate Width:
    7.8" (19.8 cm)
  • Material:
    Cast iron
  • Non Stick Coating:
    Yes
  • Removable:
    No
  • Dishwasher Safe:
    No

The waffle plates are made from cast iron and coated with Teflon (PTFE), which is the non-stick layer. In this respect, it’s similar to the Oster waffle maker, which also has Teflon-coated plates.

Teflon is generally safe for use as a non-stick coating due to its relative inertness at average cooking temperatures. However, in special circumstances, the Teflon may become carcinogenic (if it’s heated beyond 570 ℉, for example).

Also, note that you should not use metal utensils on non-stick surfaces — they can scrape the coating off. The Teflon flakes aren’t harmful if you ingest them so long that it’s not overheating. Nonetheless, it’s a good idea to try and keep the non-stick coating as intact as possible.

These waffle plates are designed to make classic-style waffles; they have shallower wells (the indents) compared to Belgian-style models. This is crucial information to know before you buy.

9.0

Control Panel

8.0
The control panel of the Oster CKSTWF2000 Belgian waffle maker. There’s the browning control knob and the indicator lights.
  • Indicator Lights:
    Yes
  • Audible Alarm:
    No
  • Timer:
    No
  • Browning Control:
    Yes

Though the control interface is barebones, that is to be expected for such an affordable waffle maker. There are two indicator lights. One will glow red when you plug it in (POWER light), and the other green light will light up when the waffle maker is heated to the correct temperature.

Above the indicator lights is a temperature control knob. The knob takes some force to turn and makes a distinct clicking sound as it does so.

The control panel of the Cuisinart round classic waffle maker. There’s the silver browning control knob and indicator lights.
The control panel of the Cuisinart round classic waffle maker. There’s the silver browning control knob and indicator lights.
Cuisinart WMR-CA Control Panel
  • Indicator Lights:
    Yes
  • Audible Alarm:
    No
  • Timer:
    No
  • Browning Control:
    Yes

The control panel is bare-bones, befitting an entry-level waffle maker. You can use only a single slider at the front to adjust the temperature. Having the option to control the cooking process is still better than some other entry-level waffle makers like the BLACK+DECKER WMB500, which doesn’t come with a control panel at all.

The slider is easy to manipulate, but there’s a lack of resistance. A light touch could push the slider out of the desired position.

The base features a pair of indicator lights beside the slider: a red POWER light and a green READY light.

The POWER indicator turns on when you plug in the waffle maker. The green READY light will turn on when it has reached the temperature you set using the temperature slider.

Oster CKSTWF2000 Belgian Waffle Maker’s Power Cord

Cuisinart WMR-CA Waffle Maker’s Power Cord
The power cord of the Oster Belgian waffle maker.
The power cord of the Oster Belgian waffle maker.
The Type A plug attachment of the Oster Belgian waffle maker’s power cord.
  • Plug Style:
    Type A (Flat Blade Attachment Plug)
  • Length:
    2.3 ft (0.7 m)
  • Cable Management:
    Yes

The unit’s power cord is short. You will either have to move the waffle maker very close to a power outlet or use an extension cord.

The back foot of the waffle maker has a grommet. You can wrap the power cord around it for easier management and storage. However, since no lock or notch holds the cord in place, it can unravel easily.

The side profile of the Cuisinart WMR-CA waffle maker, with its power cord at the front.
The side profile of the Cuisinart WMR-CA waffle maker, with its power cord at the front.
Closed-up view of the Cuisinart WMR-CA’s power cord and its Type-A prongs.
  • Plug Style:
    Type A (Flat Blade Attachment Plug)
  • Length:
    3.0 ft (0.9 m)
  • Cable Management:
    No

The power cord measures 3 feet long. The length can be a problem in some kitchens. There’s a good chance that you’ll have to resort to an extension cord if you don’t keep the waffle maker near an outlet.

N/A

Accessories

N/A
  • Material:
    N/A
  • Removable:
    N/A
  • Dishwasher Safe:
    N/A

The Oster waffle maker doesn’t come with any extra accessories. Once again, at this price point, that’s what we expected.

  • Material:
    N/A
  • Removable:
    N/A
  • Dishwasher Safe:
    N/A

The Cuisinart WMR-CA waffle maker doesn’t come with any extra accessories.

Ease of Use

Oster Belgian Waffle Maker Review

Cuisinart WMR CA Round Classic Waffle Maker Review: Ease of Use
5.0
usability Scores
  • Handling (25%)6.5/10
  • Safety (40%)1.7/10
  • Cleanability (25%)9.0/10
  • Indicator Light Visibility (10%)4.5/10
8.8
usability Scores
  • Handling (25%)9.0/10
  • Safety (40%)8.9/10
  • Cleanability (25%)9.5/10
  • Indicator Light Visibility (10%)6.5/10
6.5

Handling

9.0

Generally speaking, the Oster waffle maker is easy to handle. Even when it’s heated up, the large plastic handle at the front remains cool to the touch. However, the lid’s hinges are shaky. They make the closing and opening motion a bit awkward.

We noticed no significant problems while working with the WMR-CA. All the controls are easy to figure out, even without a user manual. Opening and closing the lid is easy and safe, thanks to the large handle at the front. The user will still be able to use the handle even after several cooking sessions.

The lid is solidly built. When open, the lid rests at a slightly backward-tilted angle. It won’t unexpectedly snap closed while you’re adding the batter.

We dropped the handling rating to a nine because the temperature control slider feels so loose.

1.7

Safety

8.9
The temperature of the base of the Oster waffle maker is measured with a thermometer. The screen reads 143.4°F.
The temperature of the base of the Oster waffle maker is measured with a thermometer. The screen reads 143.4°F.
The temperature of the front handle of the Oster waffle maker is measured with a thermometer. The screen reads 189°F.
The temperature of the control panel of the Oster waffle maker is measured with a thermometer. The screen reads 176.9°F.
  • Top Side Temperature:
    176°F
  • Bottom Side Temperature:
    143°F
  • Handle Temperature:
    189°F

Using a thermometer, we checked the temperature of the waffle maker’s various parts.

The handle was dangerously hot, with a temperature of 189°F. After several cooking sessions, the heat from the heating element and the hot steam raised the handle’s temperature to the point that it could easily cause a burn injury. This is the most serious safety problem of the Oster.

Not just the handle, the control panel area was also piping hot at 176°F.

On the underside of the waffle maker, the front plastic “leg” got quite toasty at 143°F.

So, be careful if you pick up the waffle maker by grabbing the bottom legs. The front part may be quite hot.

The exposed electronics and wiring on the backside could turn the machine into an electrical hazard. A point was further deducted from the overall score.

The temperature of the Cuisinart WMR-CA’s cool-touch handle is measured using a thermometer. The screen reads 96.4°F.
The temperature of the Cuisinart WMR-CA’s cool-touch handle is measured using a thermometer. The screen reads 96.4°F.
The temperature of the top lid of the Cuisinart WMR-CA is measured using a thermometer. The screen reads 181.7°F.
The temperature of the Cuisinart WMR-CA’s base is measured using a thermometer. The screen reads 94.1°F.
  • Top Side Temperature:
    181.7°F
  • Bottom Side Temperature:
    94°F
  • Handle Temperature:
    96.4°F

The Cuisinart WMR-CA received an excellent safety score. Even after multiple cooking sessions, the control panel and the handle don’t become too hot.

We recorded the handle’s temperature at 96.4°F, only slightly above room temperature.

The upper shell of the waffle maker gets quite hot, though. The metal conducts heat very well, so it could become hot enough to give you a burn after a waffle or two. The plastic piece at the top can also become hot enough to cause a burn. We recorded a temperature of 181.7°F.

We’re able to touch the bottom side of the waffle maker without feeling any heat at all. It measured a comfortable 94°F.

9.0

Cleanability

9.5
Excess batter spilling out from the waffle plates of the Oster waffle maker.

The Oster receives a good score in cleanability. Although it doesn't have a drip tray for spilled batter, it can be dealt with fairly easily when a batter spill does happen. Even when the batter dries out and settles on the waffle maker’s body, all surfaces can be scrubbed down easily with a dash of mild detergent.

Cuisinart WMR-CA Cleanability

The WMR-CA is relatively easy to clean. The dry batter will come off with a few spritzes of detergent and a little scrubbing.

On the inside, the non-stick layer makes it very easy to clean.

For the most part, all we had to do was run a dry cloth through the waffle plates’ grid pattern to pick up the gunk. However, the narrow indents can be hard to reach.

4.5

Indicator Light Visibility

6.5
The indicator lights of the Oster waffle maker. To the left is the red POWER light, and the right is the green READY light.

The unit we received has very dim indicator lights. Under normal lighting conditions, the two lights are hardly visible.

It’s only when we cupped our hands above the lights to shade them from the ceiling lights that the indicators became clear. The lights aren't visible in harsh daylight and studio lights.

The indicator lights at the front of the Cuisinart WMR-CA, left is the red POWER light and right is the green READY light.

This model’s indicator lights are dim. They are difficult to see under harsh studio lights or bright sunlight. However, both the red and green lights should be easy to see in the average kitchen.