Few kitchen gadgets bring as much joy to a morning routine as a waffle maker. The smell of golden, fluffy waffles fresh off the press can instantly transform breakfast into something special. Recently, I had the chance to try out two of Ninja’s popular Belgian waffle makers: the Ninja BW1001 NeverStick PRO and the Ninja BW1000C Belgian Waffle Maker.
Both promise thick, perfectly cooked Belgian waffles with customizable browning, but there are some notable differences worth considering. After putting both models through their paces, here’s my detailed take on how they stack up against each other.
Key Difference at a Glance: Ninja BW1001 vs Ninja BW1000C Belgian Waffle Maker
The Ninja BW1001 offers a bit more versatility with its specialty setting for high-sugar batters (like brownies or cake mixes), making it ideal for adventurous home bakers. Meanwhile, the Ninja BW1000C keeps things simple with the same vertical design, shade controls, and precision pour cup but without the extra specialty option.
- UNIQUE VERTICAL DESIGN: Engineered to heat evenly and give you consistent results.
- UNIQUE VERTICAL DESIGN: Engineered to heat evenly and give you consistent results
Comparison Table: Ninja BW1001 vs Ninja BW1000C Belgian Waffle Maker
| Feature | Ninja BW1001 | Ninja BW1000C |
| Design | Vertical, Black & Silver | Vertical, Black & Silver |
| Shade Settings | 5 Levels | 5 Levels |
| Special Features | Specialty setting for high-sugar batters | Standard waffle settings only |
| Alerts | Audible & Visual alerts | Audible & Visual alerts |
| Precision-Pour Cup | Included | Included |
| Wattage | 1000W | 1000W |
| Material | Aluminum (NeverStick PRO nonstick interior) | Cast Iron with nonstick coating |
| Size | 7.72″D x 6.57″W x 11.9″H | 6.57″D x 7.72″W x 11.93″H |
| Weight | Lighter | Heavier (5.7 lbs) |
| Recipe Guide | Included | Not always included |
| Latest Price & Deals | Buy on Amazon | Buy on Amazon |
Design & Build Quality
Both waffle makers use Ninja’s unique vertical design, which saves counter space and reduces mess when pouring batter. I found this design surprisingly convenient—no more batter spilling over the sides like with traditional horizontal waffle makers.
The BW1001 feels slightly sleeker and lighter thanks to its aluminum build, while the BW1000C has a bit more heft due to its cast-iron construction. That extra weight gives it a solid feel, though it does make moving it around a bit less convenient.
- UNIQUE VERTICAL DESIGN: Engineered to heat evenly and give you consistent results.
- UNIQUE VERTICAL DESIGN: Engineered to heat evenly and give you consistent results
Ease of Use
Using either model is straightforward. The precision-pour cup is a small but genius addition—it ensures you’re not guessing how much batter to use. With the vertical design, I just poured it in, locked the lid, and let the machine do its job.
Where the BW1001 shines is in its specialty mode. I tried a brownie batter mix, and it turned out gooey yet crispy in a way that a standard waffle setting wouldn’t have achieved. The BW1000C, on the other hand, sticks to standard waffle cooking, which is perfectly fine if you only plan on making classic waffles.
- UNIQUE VERTICAL DESIGN: Engineered to heat evenly and give you consistent results.
Functions & Cooking Performance
Both models feature five shade settings, giving you full control over the crispiness of your waffles. At level 3, I got fluffy golden waffles; at level 5, they came out crispy with a deep golden-brown crust.
The BW1001 had a slight edge in cooking consistency. Its NeverStick PRO coating also made it easier to remove waffles without sticking, even after several batches. The BW1000C still performed well, but I noticed I had to add a bit more oil or butter to the batter to prevent sticking over time.
- UNIQUE VERTICAL DESIGN: Engineered to heat evenly and give you consistent results
Cleanup Experience
Cleaning is always the test of a good appliance. Both models were easy to wipe down thanks to their nonstick interiors and wipe-clean exteriors. However, the BW1001’s NeverStick PRO coating was noticeably better—it resisted build-up and wiped clean in seconds, while the BW1000C needed a little more effort after heavier batters.
Extra Features & Accessories
Both come with the precision-pour cup, which really helps control batter amounts. The BW1001 adds a chef-curated recipe guide, which I found handy for experimenting with more creative waffle options. The BW1000C doesn’t always include a recipe guide, so it feels slightly less generous on accessories.
Ninja BW1001 NeverStick PRO Belgian Waffle Maker
- UNIQUE VERTICAL DESIGN: Engineered to heat evenly and give you consistent results.
Pros:
- Specialty setting for high-sugar batters (brownie/cake mixes)
- Lighter aluminum design with NeverStick PRO coating
- Easy cleanup and consistent nonstick performance
- Includes recipe guide for inspiration
Cons:
- Slightly more expensive
- May feel less “solid” compared to the cast-iron BW1000C
Ninja BW1000C Belgian Waffle Maker
- UNIQUE VERTICAL DESIGN: Engineered to heat evenly and give you consistent results
Pros:
- Sturdy cast-iron build feels durable
- Same vertical design and precision-pour cup for easy use
- Consistent waffle cooking with 5 shade settings
- Slightly lower price point
Cons:
- No specialty mode for high-sugar batters
- Heavier and a bit bulkier to handle
- Nonstick surface isn’t as resistant as BW1001 over repeated use
Conclusion & Recommendation:
After spending time with both, I can confidently say they’re both solid choices for Belgian waffle lovers. If you want a straightforward, durable waffle maker for classic recipes, the Ninja BW1000C will serve you well—it’s reliable, sturdy, and does exactly what it promises.
However, if you enjoy experimenting beyond just waffles—think brownies, cakes, and creative batters—the Ninja BW1001 is absolutely worth the upgrade. The specialty mode, improved nonstick surface, and included recipe guide give it the versatility that justifies the slightly higher price.
My Recommendation: If your budget allows, go with the Ninja BW1001. It delivers more flexibility and easier cleanup while maintaining the same vertical, space-saving design that makes both models stand out.
