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Breville BWM520XL No-Mess Waffle Maker

Breville

Breville BWM520XL No-Mess Waffle Maker

  • 5-level browning/temperature dial
  • No-mess moat catches batter overflow
  • Locking system holds even heat distribution
  • Indicator lights for preheat and cook-done cycle
  • Non-stick plates rated for 1-inch deep pockets
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On this page

Is the Breville BWM520XL No-Mess Waffle Maker worth it?

Yes, for the right buyer. The Breville BWM520XL No-Mess Waffle Maker ranks #1 in our Best Belgian Waffle Makers list (best overall). Its biggest strength: five distinct browning levels produce a repeatable result batch after batch, unlike single-setting budget irons. The main caveat: at roughly 13 x 12 inches it takes real counter and storage space for a single-waffle iron.

Overview

What the Breville BWM520XL No-Mess Waffle Maker does well

Its case rests on five distinct browning levels produce a repeatable result batch after batch, unlike single-setting budget irons and the moat channel actually catches overflow instead of letting it run down the sides onto the counter. One caveat, at roughly 13 x 12 inches it takes real counter and storage space for a single-waffle iron.

It stands out for no-mess moat eliminates counter and hinge cleanup that every budget model in this category suffers from and 5-position browning dial gives the widest and most precise browning range of any model here. Keep in mind that fixed, non-removable plates mean cleanup after the moat is wiping rather than dishwasher washing.

Specs that matter

Key features

  • 5-level browning/temperature dial
  • No-mess moat catches batter overflow
  • Locking system holds even heat distribution
  • Indicator lights for preheat and cook-done cycle
  • Non-stick plates rated for 1-inch deep pockets
The trade-offs

Pros & cons

Pros

  • Five distinct browning levels produce a repeatable result batch after batch, unlike single-setting budget irons
  • The moat channel actually catches overflow instead of letting it run down the sides onto the counter
  • Even heat across the plate means no pale spot in the center, a common complaint with cheaper Belgian irons
  • Stainless housing stays cool enough to touch on the sides during cooking
  • 8,200 ratings at 4.5 stars with few reports of plate warping after months of use

Cons

  • At roughly 13 x 12 inches it takes real counter and storage space for a single-waffle iron
  • Non-stick coating shows scratching after 1-2 years with metal utensil use
  • Priced nearly 3x the Hamilton Beach budget option for a single waffle per cycle
  • No flip mechanism, so uneven batter spreading still requires manual correction
Fit check

Should you buy the Breville BWM520XL No-Mess Waffle Maker?

Think twice if this matters to you

  • At roughly 13 x 12 inches it takes real counter and storage space for a single-waffle iron
  • Non-stick coating shows scratching after 1-2 years with metal utensil use
  • Priced nearly 3x the Hamilton Beach budget option for a single waffle per cycle
Where it ranks

Featured in 2 best-of lists

ListRank
Best Belgian Waffle Makers· Best overall#1 / 10
Best Waffle Makers#1 / 13
Cross-shop

Alternatives to the Breville BWM520XL No-Mess Waffle Maker

Products ranked near it in our research, each better for a slightly different buyer.

Head-to-head

Compared with

Buying advice: waffle makers

  1. Belgian or classic.
  2. Even cooking.
  3. Adjust crispness.
  4. Moats catch spills.
  5. Removable plates help.

Read the full guides

Answers

Breville BWM520XL No-Mess Waffle Maker: common questions

Is the Breville BWM520XL No-Mess Waffle Maker worth buying?

Yes, for the right buyer. The Breville BWM520XL No-Mess Waffle Maker ranks #1 in our Best Belgian Waffle Makers list (best overall). Its biggest strength: five distinct browning levels produce a repeatable result batch after batch, unlike single-setting budget irons. The main caveat: at roughly 13 x 12 inches it takes real counter and storage space for a single-waffle iron.

What are the downsides of the Breville BWM520XL No-Mess Waffle Maker?

The main trade-offs owners and reviewers point to: at roughly 13 x 12 inches it takes real counter and storage space for a single-waffle iron; non-stick coating shows scratching after 1-2 years with metal utensil use; priced nearly 3x the Hamilton Beach budget option for a single waffle per cycle.

What are the key features of the Breville BWM520XL No-Mess Waffle Maker?

5-level browning/temperature dial, No-mess moat catches batter overflow, Locking system holds even heat distribution, Indicator lights for preheat and cook-done cycle and Non-stick plates rated for 1-inch deep pockets.

What are the best alternatives to the Breville BWM520XL No-Mess Waffle Maker?

Worth comparing: Cuisinart WAF-F20P1 Double Belgian Waffle Maker, All-Clad WD700162 Belgian Waffle Maker and Hamilton Beach Belgian Waffle Maker 26030. Each ranks near it in our research for a slightly different buyer.

Where can I buy the Breville BWM520XL No-Mess Waffle Maker?

It's sold on Amazon. Prices and stock change often, so check the current listing before you buy, our link takes you straight to it.

What defines a Belgian waffle maker?

A Belgian waffle maker produces waffles with pockets that are approximately 1 inch deep, creating the deep grid pattern that holds toppings. Standard/classic waffle makers have shallower pockets (approximately 0.5 inches). Belgian waffle makers also produce a slightly larger waffle, typically 7 to 8 inches in diameter for a round model, compared to 4 to 6 inches for many standard models. The thicker Belgian waffle requires more batter and longer cooking time (4 to 6 minutes at moderate heat vs 2 to 4 minutes for thin classic). Most US home waffle makers sold today are Belgian-style by this definition.

Should I get a flip Belgian waffle maker?

For home use: not necessary if you spread the batter correctly before closing. A flip waffle maker rotates 180° after closing to distribute batter from the lower plate evenly against the upper plate, producing more even pocket fill. For a home cook: opening the iron, spreading batter with a spoon or basting brush toward the outer corners before closing achieves the same result without the flip mechanism. For a busy restaurant or hotel kitchen where consistent results are needed without manual batter distribution: the flip mechanism justifies the cost. For home use: save the money.

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