I use the Griddler http://www.amazon.com/Cuisinart-GR-4N-5-in-1-Griddler/dp/B002YD99Y4/ref=sr_1_1/178-2715748-8775160?ie=UTF8&qid=1419004185&sr=8-1&keywords=cuisinart+5-in-1+griddler

with the waffle plate http://www.amazon.com/Cuisinart-GR-WAFP-Griddler-Waffle-Plates/dp/B00452NT2U/ref=sr_1_2/178-2715748-8775160?ie=UTF8&qid=1419004185&sr=8-2&keywords=cuisinart+5-in-1+griddler

I have the Cuisinart (http://www.amazon.com/Cuisinart-WMR-CA-Round-Classic-Waffle/dp/B00006JKZN) and it is great. If you want something bigger or fancier, see this guide: http://thesweethome.com/reviews/best-waffle-maker/

Can you freeze the waffles?or does that defeat the purpose.

I have the round cuisinart that was about $40. I've tried fancier ones but like this one better. It only makes a single round (4 waffles, plate size) at a time though.

Our last waffle iron died after 10+ years, and the one my FIL gave us died after 1-2 uses.

We just do regular waffles, not belgian waffles.

I'd prefer an iron that makes more waffles at a time so that the family can eat breakfast together.

TIA!