Popcorn Poppers: The Best Brands and Models Reviewed

Introduction

Popcorn lovers know there’s nothing better than freshly popped, warm, and crispy popcorn. Whether you're a fan of microwave popcorn, classic kettle popcorn, or gourmet varieties like Farmer Jon’s popcorn, choosing the right popcorn popper makes all the difference.

With so many popcorn poppers on the market, it can be overwhelming to pick the best one. Some people prefer air poppers for a healthy snack, while others love the rich flavor of stovetop or kettle-style poppers. And of course, there’s the convenience of Microwave Popcorn for a quick and easy treat.

This guide will walk you through the best brands and models of popcorn poppers, covering air poppers, stovetop models, and microwave-friendly options. Whether you're looking for speed, flavor, or convenience, we’ve got you covered.

Best Air Popcorn Poppers

Air poppers use hot air instead of oil, making them a great choice for health-conscious snackers. Here are some of the top air poppers on the market:

1. Presto PopLite Hot Air Popper

This is one of the most popular air poppers available. It pops fast—up to 18 cups in under 2.5 minutes. It’s also super easy to use. Just add kernels, turn it on, and watch fluffy popcorn pour out. Plus, no oil means fewer calories!

2. DASH Hot Air Popcorn Popper

This stylish little popper is perfect for small kitchens. It comes in bright colors and has a simple on/off switch. It pops about 16 cups of popcorn in minutes and is easy to clean.

3. Cuisinart EasyPop Hot Air Popcorn Maker

Cuisinart is known for quality, and this popper is no exception. It produces crispy popcorn quickly and has a butter-melting tray on top. It’s perfect if you love air-popped popcorn but still want that buttery goodness.

Best Stovetop Popcorn Poppers

Stovetop popcorn poppers give you kettle popcorn vibes, allowing you to use oil and seasonings for maximum flavor. Here are the best options:

1. Whirley-Pop Stovetop Popcorn Popper

The Whirley-Pop is a classic. With its hand-crank stirring system, it prevents burning while coating every kernel in oil. It pops quickly, delivers a rich flavor, and is perfect for making kettle popcorn at home.

2. Franklin’s Original Whirley Pop Stovetop Popcorn Machine

If you want movie-theater-style popcorn, Franklin’s Whirley Pop is a great choice. It’s durable, easy to use, and comes with a recipe book to help you make everything from caramel corn to classic kettle popcorn.

3. Great Northern Popcorn Stainless Steel Stovetop Popper

For those who want a heavy-duty, stainless steel option, this one is perfect. It heats evenly, making sure every kernel pops, and is built to last for years.

Best Microwave Popcorn Poppers

Microwave popcorn is one of the easiest and fastest ways to make popcorn. Instead of using store-bought microwave bags, you can use a microwave popcorn popper for a fresher and healthier alternative. Here are the top picks:

1. Ecolution Micro-Pop Microwave Popcorn Popper

This glass popper is simple to use—just add kernels, place it in the microwave, and watch it pop. It has a silicone lid that doubles as a measuring cup and butter melter.

2. Nordic Ware Microwave Popcorn Popper

This plastic popper is durable and lightweight. It doesn’t require oil but works well with butter if you prefer a richer taste. It makes about 12 cups of popcorn in just a few minutes.

3. HOTPOP Microwave Popcorn Popper

This collapsible silicone popper is great for small spaces. It’s BPA-free, dishwasher-safe, and easy to store. It also lets you customize your white microwave popcorn with your favorite toppings.

Best Commercial-Style Popcorn Machines

For serious popcorn lovers, a commercial-style popcorn maker is the ultimate upgrade. These machines bring kettle popcorn magic right into your home.

1. Great Northern Popcorn Company 8-Ounce Popcorn Machine

This retro-style popcorn machine is a showstopper. It comes with a built-in kettle and makes up to 3 gallons of popcorn per batch. If you want that Kettle Popcorn experience, this is the one to get.

2. Nostalgia Vintage Popcorn Cart

Want a popcorn machine that doubles as décor? This vintage-style cart makes popcorn just like movie theaters. It has a built-in warming light to keep popcorn fresh and crispy.

3. West Bend 82515 Hot Theater Popcorn Machine

This is a smaller version of a theater-style popper, perfect for home use. It features a nonstick kettle, a stirring rod, and a slide-out tray for easy serving.

Why Farmer Jon’s Popcorn Is a Must-Try

No matter which popper you choose, Farmer Jon’s popcorn is a brand worth trying. Known for its high-quality kernels, Farmer Jon’s offers everything from classic yellow popcorn to gourmet flavors. They also make white microwave popcorn, which is lighter and fluffier than traditional yellow kernels.

Many popcorn lovers swear by Farmer Jon’s because it pops evenly, has fewer unpopped kernels, and delivers a rich, buttery taste. It works well with air poppers, stovetop poppers, and microwave poppers, making it a versatile choice.

How to Choose the Right Popcorn Popper

1. Consider Your Popping Style

• If you want a healthy, oil-free option, go for an air popper.

• If you love kettle popcorn with butter and seasoning, a stovetop model is best.

• If you need something quick and convenient, a microwave popcorn popper is the way to go.

2. Think About Size

• A small air popper is great for personal use.

• A stovetop popper works well for families.

• A commercial-style machine is perfect for parties and movie nights.

3. Check the Features

• Look for a popper with a built-in butter melter if you love buttery popcorn.

• A stirring mechanism prevents burning.

• Easy cleanup is a big plus—dishwasher-safe parts make a difference.

Conclusion

Whether you're a fan of white microwave popcorn, rich and buttery kettle popcorn, or gourmet brands like Farmer Jon’s popcorn, choosing the right popcorn popper enhances the experience. From air poppers to stovetop models and even theater-style machines, there’s a perfect popcorn maker for everyone.

If you’re ready to upgrade your popcorn game, consider trying one of these top-rated popcorn poppers. And don’t forget to experiment with different kernels, seasonings, and flavors to create the ultimate movie-night snack!

Call to Action

Which popcorn popper do you use? Have a favorite brand of popcorn kernels? Let us know in the comments! And if you found this guide helpful, share it with fellow popcorn lovers! 🍿