Even with the control dial set to max the waffles are soft and mushy. I used the same batter recipe that I have used for years in my previous waffle maker of a different brand. I like my waffles firm and slightly crispy. My first waffle at a setting of 4 was almost uncooked in the center. Each setting higher was very slightly better but never firm or crisp. The advertising for this waffle maker caught my attention as a possible big design improvement. The actual product is a major disappointment.