I am super pleased with this waffle making machine. I spent a lot of time looking at a variety of waffle makers. I wanted to get one for my husband as he sometimes wants waffles. I am not usually a fan of waffles, but I found that I do like Belgian style. So, when I began looking for a waffle maker for him, I made sure it could make the thicker Belgian style that I like.There are so many waffle makers out there and the reviews are all over the place. I went from thinking I could get something for less than $20 to taking a peek at the offerings in the hundreds. I looked so hard and so long that I was considering giving up. At some point in my mission, I found this Cuisinart waffle maker. I have always liked this brand, and I was kinda keen on the features such as:Removable platesUse beyond making waffles, additional plates (swap out two waffle plates for a flat and a flat/round for eggs, sausage patties, sandwiches)Belgian waffle style plates with deep crevicesThe product description video helped me to see how it works, which influenced my ultimate buying decision.Basically its a breakfast station! My primary interest was waffle making, so even the lure of added functionality didn't completely sell me at first. I continued to read all the reviews- again, all mixed like every other out there- and abandoned this for awhile to continue my search.I circled back around to this because, once again, I have been pleased with anything I have by Cuisinart. I liked the overall look of this, and that it appeared to be easy to store. I also decided I liked the additional plates, and I liked that there is no need to do any flipping or rotating of the machine. It cost more ($72) than I originally set out for, but everything about this unit- if it worked- seemed to be worth it. We love "breakfast" anytime, so i knew it would be used not only for waffles but for pancakes, eggs, and sausage patties. In addition, I started looking at recipes that go beyond breakfast foods that use a waffle maker, and this size and style seemed conducive to trying out all sorts of neat recipes. SOLD!Now, as to how it did.1st-- how the waffles turn out is greatly determined by the cook. My husband makes perfect Belgium waffles each and every time. ME? they turn out.. ok. I am so glad I wasn't the only one to test this out, as I would have thought that the machine was at fault. NOPE- me. I swear I do all the things he does, but every single time his turn out better. EVEN SO, mine still look good.It has a few heat settings, just take a look at the manual for additional guidance. I don't think they take long to make. We made several in short time. Nothing seemed out of the ordinary. Waffles were evenly cooked, and always just turn out well. We use Krusteaz brand Belgian Waffle mix every time- not sure if that makes a difference or not.The plates pop out for easy washing, if need be (I usually just wipe with a damp cloth). I can store the unit in an upright position or resting flat. It doesn't take up much room in my cupboard, which is great. Compact- just a square. Nothing sticking out, making it weird. If you like appliances on your counter, this is pleasant to look at.Usually when we do waffles, we aren't doing pancakes. Usually when I do pancakes, I am used to using another style of pan, BUT, this is really nice as it heats up quickly, doesn't stick, and is just fun to use one unit. The round section is for batter,eggs, etc, then the top flat portion presses down. It is still being used primarily for waffles, but I am very pleased with this waffle maker. Especially when my husband makes waffles.The more we use the more I am pleased with this purchase. 5 stars at this time. If I learn anything new- good or bad- I will be back to update.