I have changed recently. I think they are a cult.
With the change to the members only WT, to the Sept KM QB on no independant study groups, combined with the control that is there through disfellowshipping, they are a cult. In addition, something I didn't think about till last night, but only cults have "initiation rites" for their young. Some are more disgusting then others. (that polygomous sect in Utah being an example) Nonetheless, even for the kids, you are on the hook before you are at an age of reason. It just struck me that only a cult would require a decision you made as a 9 year old stay binding to you all your life. Baptism is that tool....
I don't think they are like a Kool Aid cult, although if you do think that, I respect that. Frankly, I think they have blazed their own trail. They are on the cutting edge of "Mind control" cult technique. No need to compare them to any other cult, they are very unique.
For that matter, I think a number of fundamentalist religions can qualify as a cult. Many religions (not all, I am not trying to tick off thiests) use the bible to exhibit extreme control over thoughts and actions of their flocks. JW's happen to be one of the weirder ones....