Best Popcorn Poppers

Review & Comparison, Last Update January 11, 2024
Popcorn is a quick and yummy treat for a large party or a pleasant chill with your loved ones. Are you raving about an unmatched ...Read more
PROS

A 2.5-ounce stainless steel kettle features a built-in stirring system to speed up kernels popping and reduce the number of unpopped kernels. Besides, it boasts a heating option to keep popcorn deliciously warm. 

CONS

The unit is pretty bulky. 

OUR VERDICT

The Great Northern popcorn popper offers commercial grade quality and functionality in a countertop design suitable for home use. A well-thought construction is easy to use while a retro style appearance will create a special atmosphere for an enjoyable movie night with family and friends. 

detailed parameters
TYPE

Electric popper

POPPING METHOD

Hot oil

POPPED CUPS PER BATCH

up to 16 cups

BATCH POPPING TIME

About 2 minutes

USABILITY

Warming light, 2 control switches, Removable popcorn tray, Measuring spoon, Measuring cup

CLEANING

The slide-out popcorn serving tray is dishwasher safe, Other parts are hand-washable

DIMENSIONS

18.75" x 11" x 9.75"

WARRANTY

30-day warranty on the kettle and bulb

90-day limited warranty on the machine

PROS

The base contains a quick-heating halogen element to heat up the cooking plate. An easy-access crank handle on the side of the unit allows you to dump popped popcorn from the kettle.

CONS

It pops a relatively small amount of popcorn at a time.

OUR VERDICT

This compact popcorn maker has a transparent cover, which allows you to watch the whole process of popcorn popping and turning into a white fluffy treat. It's designed with vented holes that release steam and non-slip feet that ensure stability on any surface while the machine is in use.

detailed parameters
TYPE

Electric popper

POPPING METHOD

Hot oil

POPPED CUPS PER BATCH

up to 10 cups

BATCH POPPING TIME

About 2 minutes

USABILITY

On/off switch, Easy access crank handle, Lighted interior, Tilt door, Non-slip feet, Measuring cup, Oil measuring spoon

CLEANING

Should be wiped with slightly damp, non-abrasive sponge, towel or cloth

DIMENSIONS

17" x 11.25" x 13.25"

WARRANTY

90-day return policy

PROS

Owing to a high power of 1475 Watts, this model will pop up to 18 cups of warm crunchy delicacy in less than 2.5 minutes.

CONS

There is no on/off switch.

OUR VERDICT

The Presto 04821 is a practical and extremely fast helper for true popcorn lovers. Cooking your favorite snack virtually without any oil, it will let you taste healthy popcorn without excess carbs and fats. Meanwhile, compact size makes it suitable for a kitchen of any size.

detailed parameters
TYPE

Electric popper

POPPING METHOD

Hot air

POPPED CUPS PER BATCH

up to 18 cups

BATCH POPPING TIME

About 2.5 minutes

USABILITY

Built-in cord wrap, Butter melter/Measuring Scoop

CLEANING

Base and cover are hand-washable

DIMENSIONS

13.12" x 9.25" x 5.81"

WARRANTY

1-year limited warranty 

PROS

The included measuring cup doubles as a warming tray for butter. Also included is a recipe book with lots of great recipe suggestions for different types of popcorn treats. 

CONS

Because the unit has a rather small chamber chute, some kernels may fly out onto the countertop.

OUR VERDICT

The Dash V2AQ04 is a small yet highly efficient popcorn machine that is perfect for movie nights and small parties. It is also very easy to use, so even your kids will be able to get the knack of it and make their favorite popcorn treats as often as they want. 

detailed parameters
TYPE

Electric popper

POPPING METHOD

Hot air

POPPED CUPS PER BATCH

up to 16 cups

BATCH POPPING TIME

approx 3 minutes

USABILITY

1-touch start button, Non-slip feet, Measuring cup doubles as warming tray for butter, Recipe guide

CLEANING

The popping chute and butter tray are dishwasher safe

DIMENSIONS

13.5" x 4.8" x 8.4"

WARRANTY

1 year limited

PROS

The Motorized stir rod, combined with a triple-layer heating plate, ensures that your popcorn snack doesn't get soggy and is always nice and delicious. The automatic revers, in turn, prevent the kernels from getting stuck, thus, prolonging the service life of the device.

CONS

The popping takes a bit longer compared to other models, but given that it produces bigger amounts of popcorn, too, this shouldn't be a big deal.

OUR VERDICT
For those who are looking for a perfect popcorn maker for home use that makes room for plenty of popping activity while not costing you a fortune, the West Bend Stir Crazy 82505 may be the right way forward.
detailed parameters
TYPE

Electric popper

POPPING METHOD

Hot oil

POPPED CUPS PER BATCH

up to 23 cups

BATCH POPPING TIME

about 10 minutes

USABILITY

Vented clear cover doubles as popcorn bowl, Cord wrap, Aligning cover and heating base handles, Nesting lid, Automatic revers

CLEANING

Wipe with damp, Non-abrasive sponge, Towel or cloth

DIMENSIONS

10.25" x 12" x 10"

WARRANTY

1 year limited

Commercial-grade Popper for Home Use

Do you like the charm of old-world carnivals, attraction parks, and movie theaters with old-style cotton-candy makers and popcorn machines? Unforgettable popcorn aroma lingered in the air, making your mouth water and filling the atmosphere with joy and fun. Today, the plastic taste of microwave popcorn packs can’t even get close to the taste of popcorn from those old-fashioned large carts. And what if you’d be able to replicate that authentic taste in your own kitchen? You can do it with the Great Northern electric popper that offers commercial retro design in a countertop format suitable for home use.

First things first, the Great Northern really reminds those popcorn maker carts and large commercial machines you come across in ball games, movie theaters, and kid’s stores. And though it is definitely smaller, it still replicates that original design and construction consisting of a transparent chamber with a stainless steel popper kettle and a collection tray inside. This model will create a festive atmosphere and become a focal point of any friendly get-together, family movie night, holiday, birthday party, kid’s feasts, or any other type of social gathering. Meanwhile, it can be easily placed on the countertop (yet, it is still a bit bulkier than its modern counterparts) and doesn’t require any separate area in your kitchen, rest area, or playroom to be allocated.

Seemingly difficult in use, in practice, the unit is a snap to operate and provides the best of what modern technologies have to offer to let you taste professional quality popcorn at home. A stainless steel popping kettle is fixed on the hangers over a plastic serving tray inside the chamber. Actually, you just need to turn on the popping switch to preheat the kettle for several minutes, then add some oil (since the system applies traditional hot oil popping method) and kernels to the kettle, and let the unit pop up for the next several minutes. The measuring scoop is included in the set, so, there is no guessing what amount of kernels you need to add per batch. A handy lever on the side will help you empty the kettle when popping is over. Besides, once the tray is full, you can remove it and serve your tasty homemade popcorn right in it.

Delicious Whenever You Taste It

The Great Northern comes complete with a 2.5-ounce kettle and can pop up about 1 gallon of popcorn per batch. That’s 16 cups of yummy treat in less than 2 minutes. Though this capacity is far less than that of commercial models, this model is still suitable for making popcorn in large amounts. While your taste your portion, you can load the next serving to be ready just in time. More than that, the popper comes with a warming function. A special light installed above the kettle will keep your popped popcorn deliciously warm and fresh until you are ready to eat it.

To conclude, distinguished by a well-thought construction, ease of use, and one-of-a-kind design, this model will be appreciated by all popcorn fans and add a special flair to all your family gatherings and events.

Additional Info

User Manual     Manufacturer

Last updated price $54.90
Stock In stock
ASIN B00815EQEC

Retro Model From the Nostalgia Brand

Can you imagine any snack that is as unfussy as popcorn? Indeed, popcorn is not only tasty but also fascinating to watch how it pops. The Nostalgia KPM200 Popcorn Maker takes fun to the whole new level with its attractive design - a scaled-down version of the familiar, street-corner popcorn cart. Retro models are what the Nostalgia brand is well-known for.

The large capacity yet lightweight construction of the Nostalgia KPM200 Popcorn Maker makes it perfect for any home party. The base contains a quick-heating halogen element to swiftly heat up the cooking plate.

The stirring rod inside the kettle keeps kernels spinning without scorching and sticking as they pop. The flat base comes with low-profile feet, so you can place the machine on any flat surface without damaging the finish. The bin holds up to 30 cups of popped popcorn, while the 2.5-ounce stainless steel kettle with an integrated stirring system can pop up to 10 cups of popcorn at a time.

The backlit interior chamber allows you to watch the popcorn turning from hard, yellow seeds into white fluffy treats, so you know when it’s time to empty the kettle.

The vented holes release steam and the aroma of freshly-buttered popcorn. The kernel catcher tray keeps loose unpopped kernels out of the scoop. The set also includes a measuring cup for kernels and a measuring spoon for oil.

For easy serving, pull the tilt door out to scoop popcorn. Use the convenient crank handle on the side of the unit to dump popped popcorn from the kettle. As an added bonus, the popcorn maker includes a manual with numerous recipes.

Relive the golden era of movies and step back into the good old days with this retro-style popcorn maker from Nostalgia Electrics! With its vintage design, this quirky popcorn popper will become the showstopper at any party.

General Guidelines for Nostalgia Popcorn Machines

To start, plug in the unit. Turn the machine on for up to 5 minutes to let the kettle to heat up and turn it off. Add oil to the kettle and measure out your kernels. If you use the measuring cup included, fill it loosely to the fill line.

Close the door and turn on the unit. The corn will start popping almost immediately, spilling out of the kettle into the cart. When the popcorn stops popping, turn the unit off and use the crank handle to empty out the corn left in the kettle. Remove any unpopped kernels as soon as the kettle has cooled.

The unit should be placed on a stable, level surface to limit the risk of injuries. Before the first use, the machine should be carefully cleaned with warm, soapy water and dried thoroughly. It also should be washed from time to time to maintain a good working condition.

Additional Info

User Manual     Manufacturer

Last updated price $60.35
Stock In stock
ASIN B00AZUCB20

Fast as a Lightning

If you look for a relatively compact and affordable popcorn popper to meet your family needs in popcorn, you won’t go wrong with the Orville popcorn popper from Presto. Not to tiptoe around the subject, let’s get straight to the point. What sets this model apart from the rivals is its amazing popping speed. Actually, all electric popcorn poppers of this kind are pretty fast, achieving the speed of about 15 cups in 3 minutes. Yet, the Orville popper is even faster. In a bit more than 2 minutes, it can make as many as 18 cups of the crispy dainty. It’s a really amazing speed for an average home unit. Meanwhile, this capacity per batch is a rather high output. It means in mere minutes, you’ll get a 4.5-quart bowl full of popcorn to share with your family and friends while watching movies, playing cards, or simply having a good time when sitting on the terrace and chatting on a warm summer evening.

As fast and efficient as it is, the Orville popper is a no-nonsense and straightforward unit. To start popping, just take off a clear plastic popping chute, load the kernels into a popping chamber using a measuring cup included in the set, place back the chute, and plug the unit it. That’s it. There is even no single control button. Though simple, it’s still a bit dangerous on the other hand since you need to be careful and avoid leaning over a hot popper to unplug the machine when popping is over.

Using hot air to pop, the Orville is a breeze to clean. When the unit cools down after use, wipe it with a soft cloth, wrap the cable around the cord hook on the top of the power base, and stow the popper away for storage.

Yummy is Healthy

As we’ve already mentioned, the Presto Orville popper makes popcorn using only hot air without any oil. So, you’ll get not only a tasty but also a healthy and calorie-wise snack. As opposed to almost 90 calories per portion in oil-popped popcorn, air-popped treat contains only 30 calories and virtually no fats, not to say that homemade popcorn is free from any saturated fats, artificial flavorings, and sugars. As it is, popcorn is a great choice for a quick bite. It contains such essential nutrients as proteins and phosphorous, digestion improving fibers, and important antioxidants. Meanwhile, it is free from gluten and will suit even gluten allergy sufferers.

However, those who want a more traditional flavor can add some seasonings and butter, using a measuring cup that doubles as a butter melter and can be placed over a hot chute while popping.

All in all, the Presto Orville is a practical and extremely fast popper for true popcorn lovers. It can make a family-size treat in close to no time and will let you taste your favorite snack without excess fats and carbs in it.

Additional Info

User Manual     Manufacturer

Last updated price $39.89
Stock In stock
ASIN B00006IUWB

Small Yet Highly Efficient

Would you like to make your movie nights a bit more fun? Then the Dash Hot Air Popcorn Popper Maker may be exactly what you are looking for. It's a small yet highly effective device that can produce up to 16 cups of delicious and healthy popcorn, making it perfect for friendly gatherings or just a quiet date night in.

Using the Dash Popcorn Machine is a breeze, so even a child can make a bowl of delectable snack in mere minutes. All you really need to do is measure and add popcorn kernels to the chamber, push the on/off button, and the device will do the rest for you. Owing to 1400 watts of power, the device does a quick job of popping fresh popcorn, ensuring that no kernels are left unpopped.

Not dissimilar to its larger siblings, the operation of the Dash Hot Air Popcorn Popper Maker is based on the hot air. Thanks to this, not only does it take less time to prepare a good portion of the treat, but it also requires no fats, producing popcorn that is healthy and low in calories. Naturally, it is also possible to enhance the taste of your snack by adding seasonings, toppings, chocolate, salt and whatnot, so every member of your family can satisfy their cravings.

Trendy Colors

In regard to design, the Dash popcorn maker is a real looker. It has a solid BPA-free plastic construction with a clear plastic chute and comes in a lovely aqua color that will surely add a bright accent to your kitchen interior. It is also available in red and white color options, so if you don't like blue, you can go for the one that you like best. The small size is another great advantage of this popcorn maker. Measuring just 10 x 9.6 x 5.6 inches, it won't clutter your countertop space and can be easily stashed away in a kitchen cabinet when not in use.

Before wrapping it up, let's say a few words about the packaging. Obviously, it's not as extensive as that of commercial popcorn popper machines, but it includes everything you need for comfortable use, including a measuring cup and a recipe book. The measuring cup also serves as a tray for melting butter—simply place it on the top of the device.

In the end, if you're looking for an easy-to-use, affordable, and trendy popcorn machine that can produce enough popcorn to entertain your family or guests, the Dash popcorn maker fits that bill perfectly.

Additional Info

    Manufacturer

Last updated price $0.00
Stock In stock
ASIN B07NWCTXHH

For True Popcorn Lovers

What sets the West Bend Stir Crazy 82505 apart from many other models is that it packs the capacity of a huge popcorn popper in a small design, producing up to 28 cups of perfect popcorn per cycle. This makes it a great pick for large families who adore popcorn and can eat it virtually non-stop.

The design of the West Bend Stir Crazy is quite remarkable, too. Unlike the majority of standard popcorn poppers, this one has a dome shape and comes with a clear top equipped with lots of vents. Thanks to this, the extra moisture is released, preventing the snack from going soggy. You also get a handy lid that doubles as a melting butter tray. After you place it on the top of the dome, the steam from the vents will melt a piece of butter so that it drops right onto the corn. When the popping is complete, the clear plastic top can be flipped over and used as a bowl for serving fresh popcorn.

Aside from its remarkable capacity, the West Bend Stir Crazy 82505 is also renowned for its amazing performance. With 850 watts of power combined with a triple-layer heating plate, which keeps it fully insulated, the unit can churn out up to 6-7 quarts of popcorn within less than 4 minutes, making it ideal for large group gatherings and dinner parties.

Automatic Revers

Another advantage of the West Bend Stir Crazy 82505 is how easy it to use. All you need is to put kernels into the chamber and press the on/off button. After that, the popping process will start. To prevent burns on the hot machine, the manufacturer fitted it with an off/on switch, so even if your kids use it to make a batch of delicious snack at home, they won't get burned.

Not to be left out are automatic revers. It's a handy feature that prevents kernels from getting stuck, thus prolonging the service life of the device. In addition to that, the popcorn bowl features a non-stick heating surface, so cleaning it won't be difficult.

Adding to the convenience of use is a neat cord wrap underneath the base that allows for no-tangle storage both on a counter and in a kitchen cabinet.

Summing up, if you're looking for a perfect popcorn maker for home use that makes room for plenty of popping activity while not costing you a fortune, the West Bend Stir Crazy 82505 may be the right way forward.

Additional Info

    Manufacturer

Last updated price $0.00
Stock In stock
ASIN B00KL8SM92

Infographics


What Is a Popcorn Popper?

Today popcorn is a synonym for entertainment and parties. At the same time, most commonly it is a tasty snack to eat and treat your friends while gathering around a TV set, watching movies or sportscasts. And a Popcorn Popper will help you make the necessary amount of popcorn quickly and without a hassle. This terrific device will make a popular popped delicacy out of corn kernels. Our review will help you decide on a popcorn maker model to be the best-ever acquisition in your household.

If you still don’t have a home theater system or home theater projector, make sure to get one to improve surround sound and your watching experience. For party-goers who adore gathering with friends for a movie, we'd like to offer shaved ice machine and cotton candy maker reviews where you can find most popular appliances to treat your guests and kids.

What Features to Compare

Type and Popping Method

There are several types of popcorn makers. Below you will find the poppers most suitable for domestic use:

  • Stove-top poppers look just like regular pots with a handle. They’re used for making a big batch of popcorn. By turning the handle, you will stir corn kernels to minimize popcorn overheat and scorching.
  • Electric kettle poppers are most common among users today. They work by way of hot-oil kettles with a built-in heating element. But it is worth mentioning that such units use much less oil as compared to the stove-top models. Usually, kettle poppers come with an automatic stirring system to ensure uniform heating of kernels.
  • Hot air popper is a type of electric popcorn maker too. Basically, it features a special popping chute that directs popcorn right into the bowl. With this unit, you will get much healthier popcorn and be able to add some melted butter if needed.
  • Microwave bowl is another quick and simple way to prepare popcorn dipped in hot oil.

Performance

The number of popped cups per batch is an important criterion to consider. On average, a standard serving size for one person is about 2-3 cups or even more. Most often, while watching an interesting movie or an exciting TV show people eat popcorn with enthusiasm and don’t even notice how they rush through the whole bucket. Thus, if you select a popper for two persons the unit popping up to 12-15 cups will be a perfect match. Meanwhile, if you have a big family with several kids raving about popcorn you need a higher capacity popper. The batch popping time is also a significant factor. While planning a get-together with friends you should think about the number of popcorn batches you'd like to make within a short period of time so that your guests don't need to wait for too long. With some popcorn makers, you can fill the kernels for popping the next batch immediately after the first batch is ready. But you should remember that most poppers do not have overheat protection and are not meant for commercial use. Hence, a 2-3-minute break between the batches is needed to let your popper cool down a bit.

Usability and Cleaning

For your convenience, electric units have ON/Off buttons. A cool-touch body or a stay-cool handle (in stove-top models) are a must for a safe and comfortable operation. Hot-air poppers usually come with a removable cup to melt the butter while making popcorn or use it as a measuring cup for kernels. Electric oil poppers should be equipped with a stirring mechanism to minimize the risk of popcorn scorch and ensure even heating of all unpopped kernels. If your unit has some removable or detachable elements it will significantly facilitate the cleaning and dishwasher safe parts will be a really nice benefit making cleaning a breeze. The design of certain popcorn makers allows using a base bowl for serving. At the same time, there are units that have a top nest combined with a bowl for a handy storage. And finally, pay attention to the size of a popper. It really matters if you have a small kitchen or you've got quite limited storing space.

Sources:

1. Christine Gallary Our Best Tips for Making Perfect Popcorn, Kitchn. October 24, 2014.

2. Popcorn Maker, Wikipedia. March 30, 2016.

3. How to Use an Air Popcorn Popper, eBay. July 21, 2014.

4. Sarah Popcorn: The Healthy Snack You’re Not Eating Often Enough, The Healthy Home Economist.

5. Roasting Coffee in a Popcorn Popper, America's Test Kitchen. March 2013.

6. Kay Chun and Jenny Rosenstrach How to Make Award-Worthy Popcorn, Real Simple.

7. Types of Popcorn and Popcorn Machines, WebstaurantStore.

8. What Is the Difference Between a Snowflake Popcorn Kernel & a Mushroom Popcorn Kernel? SFGate.

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