I bought a cast iron waffle maker hoping to love it and not wanting an extra one-use appliance. Alas, it was a pain to use and made mediocre waffles. But, since we like waffles, and the reviews for this waffle maker were SO positive, and I have had good luck with Cuisinart appliances in the past, I broke down and bought this appliance. I'm not sorry. It makes awesome waffles, is a well thought out design, and was reasonably priced. Worth the space it takes up in my cabinet.